On January 8, 2020, Meghan Markle used the platform Instagram to announce that she and Prince Harry would be “making a transition into” a more independent life style. This decision to become separated from the rest of the royal family will cause many changes in different areas of their life from media, to family, to finances.

Before the big announcement, the couple were hoping to have financial independence and keep supporting the queen from their “senior” positions inside the family. Unfortunately, they were given two options: in or out. The couple made the tough decision to bow out. As far as previous instances of this separation, there are none. Divorces inside the royal family have caused changes in titles, but nothing beyond that. 

As far as their titles go, Meghan and Harry will no longer go by His/ Her Royal Highness. However, they will still be known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Prince Harry had many responsibilities that pertained to the royals’ philanthropic work, but the question has been raised on whether Prince William take over, or if the royals will simply do less.

The finances that the two received from the royal family came out to be ninety-five percent of their income. The two will begin to be financially independent, including repaying taxpayers three million dollars that were used to refurbish their home. 

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s residence has also been a frequent question. The couple has decided to split their time between North America and the UK, but will mainly reside in North America. This decision would make sense due to Markle being from California. 

Their media coverage since before their marriage in March 2018 has been very consistent. The couple has been freely photographed and covered by the Royal Rota System for many years. The Royal Rota System is made up of select media companies that are able to share the families affairs with other media. Now that the royal couple has removed themselves from this environment, they will no longer be a part of the Royal Rota System. The couple will have many eyes on them as they move forward, people are eager to see what will become of their new life.