Calls from some high-profile millionaires to pay higher taxes have not translated into significant voluntary payments, new research suggests. Despite public declarations by figures such as Gary Lineker and others identifying as “patriotic millionaires” who express a willingness to increase their tax contributions, voluntary donations to the Treasury remain minimal.

Data compiled by the “Cut My Tax” website highlights that between 2014 and 2015, no voluntary tax payments were recorded. In 2023, only 38 individuals contributed a total of slightly more than £28,000. The only notable exception came in 2020, when five donors together contributed nearly £1.2 million. Outside of that year, voluntary payments over the past decade have generally been modest.

Observers note a discrepancy between public rhetoric and private action. According to some analyses, many wealthy individuals appear more focused on advocating for others to pay higher taxes rather than increasing their own contributions voluntarily.

The reasons for this hesitancy are subject to debate. One perspective suggests that some high-net-worth individuals may be reluctant to allocate additional funds without assurance that the money will be directed toward specific, effective causes. Potentially popular uses for targeted donations could include dementia care, cancer treatment, and children’s mental health services. Conversely, projects perceived as less favorable—such as contentious infrastructure programs, certain foreign aid allocations, or controversial government deals—might deter willingness to donate.

To address these concerns, some propose creating a platform that would allow donors to designate funds to particular causes, similar to charitable donation schemes used in retail environments. Proponents suggest such an approach could increase voluntary contributions by providing greater transparency and control over where money is spent.

Despite the low levels of voluntary payments reported, supporters of higher taxation among the wealthy continue to voice their positions publicly. Whether this advocacy will soon translate into tangible increases in voluntary tax payments remains to be seen.