In this paper, the circumstances under which the Real Decreto de Consolidación originated are described. Then,  its contents are analyzed in order to examine its implications for the American population. It is emphasized that this measure had not either a social aim, or was oriented towards the benefit of the American realms, but that its purpose was to collect funds for the royal treasure. Moreover, it is shown that through the enforcement of the Consolidación not only  the  Church was affected, as is generally asumed, but also wide sectors of the civil population, since it encompassed property belonging to lay people. It forced as well those who borrowed from ecclesiastical capitals to pay the principal of the money they had in their hands.