Nurse Judy disappointed as taxes take nearly Ksh390K from her earnings
By Trizer Lijondo, August 21, 2026Content creator Nurse Judy has sparked conversation after sharing her frustration over the amount of money deducted from her earnings after making about Ksh1.3 million in six days.
The Kenyan nurse, who has built an online following by sharing aspects of her life and work abroad, highlighted the less glamorous side of earning a seemingly impressive income. While Ksh1.3 million may sound like a dream payday to many, Judy’s experience showed that the figure earned does not necessarily reflect what eventually remains in someone’s account.
Reality behind big pay cheque
Judy’s frustration centred on nearly Ksh390,000 going towards taxes. The deduction represents a significant portion of her six-day earnings, highlighting the financial reality that can come with high-income employment abroad.
For many Kenyans, the amount may immediately put into perspective the difference between earning a large salary and actually taking home the full amount. Higher earnings can also mean higher tax obligations, leaving professionals with considerably less than the headline figure suggests.
Her experience offers a glimpse into an aspect of working abroad that is often overlooked. Social media conversations about overseas employment frequently focus on attractive salaries without considering taxes, insurance, living expenses and other deductions that can significantly affect disposable income.
Gross pay versus take-home pay
Judy’s experience also highlights the difference between gross and net income. Gross income refers to earnings before deductions, while net income is the amount that remains after taxes and other deductions have been taken out.
In Judy’s case, the sizeable tax deduction left her questioning how much of her earnings she would actually get to keep despite making more than KSh1 million in less than a week.
The situation also provides a useful reminder for Kenyans considering employment opportunities abroad. A salary should not be judged by the headline figure alone. Tax rates, working hours, living costs, insurance and other expenses can all determine how much money ultimately remains.
The cost of earning more
Judy’s frustration has also opened up a wider conversation about the realities faced by professionals who work long hours for higher incomes. While earning KSh1.3 million in six days may appear financially impressive, the deductions show that substantial earnings can come with substantial financial obligations.
Her experience is therefore a reminder that a big pay cheque and a big take-home amount are not always the same thing.