Minimum wage rates are the legal minimum hourly pay employers must give most workers in the UK. The rates vary depending on your age, whether you’re an apprentice, and whether you qualify for the National Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage.
The National Minimum Wage applies to most workers under 23, while the National Living Wage is a higher rate for workers aged 23 and over. These rates are reviewed every year and usually increase in April.
Understanding what minimum wage rates apply helps employers pay staff fairly and helps workers check they’re getting what they’re entitled to by law.
Before you hire staff or check your own pay it’s important to understand which minimum wage rate applies. The rate you must pay depends on the worker’s age, whether they’re an apprentice, and their employment status.
Employers must check the current rates every year and keep accurate records to prove they’re paying the correct minimum wage. Workers should also know their rights and what to do if they think they’re being underpaid.
Knowing how minimum wage rates work helps businesses stay compliant and gives employees confidence they’re getting fair pay for their work.
National Minimum Wage rates apply to employees up to the age of 20.
National Living Wage (NLW) rates apply to employees 21 and over.
The Apprentice rate applies to apprentices under 19, or 19 and over in the first year of apprenticeship.
Penalties apply to employers who fail to pay minimum wages.
| Age | NLW | 18-20 | 16-17 | Apprentice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| From 1 April 2025 | £12.21 | £10.00 | £7.55 | £7.55 |
| From 1 April 2024 | £11.44 | £8.60 | £6.40 | £6.40 |
Almost all employers in the UK must pay minimum wage to their workers. This includes businesses, charities, and individuals who employ someone to work for them for example, a cleaner or carer.
The National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage apply to:
Certain groups are not entitled to minimum wage rates such as genuinely self-employed people, company directors (who don’t have an employment contract), volunteers, and some family members working in a family business.
Employers must check the correct rate for each worker’s age and role and make sure they update pay when rates change each year.
Paying minimum wage means making sure every eligible worker gets at least the legal hourly rate for every hour they work. Employers must check each worker’s age, apprenticeship status, and working hours to work out what they’re owed.
Failing to pay the right minimum wage rates can lead to penalties, back payments, and being named publicly by HMRC so getting it right is essential.
What are minimum wage rates in the UK?
Minimum wage rates are the legal minimum hourly pay employers must give workers. The National Minimum Wage applies to most workers under 23, and the National Living Wage applies to workers aged 23 and over.
Who qualifies for minimum wage rates?
Most workers over school leaving age qualify, including part-time, full-time, agency workers, and apprentices. Genuine self-employed people, volunteers, and some family members may be exempt.
How often do minimum wage rates change?
UK minimum wage rates usually change every April. Employers must check the latest rates each year to stay compliant.
What is the apprentice minimum wage rate?
Apprentices under 19 or in their first year get a special apprentice rate. After their first year, if they’re over 19, they must be paid the minimum wage for their age.
How do I check if I’m being paid the minimum wage?
Divide your total pay by the total hours you’ve worked to find your average hourly rate. If it’s below the legal minimum, speak to your employer or report it to HMRC.
What happens if an employer doesn’t pay minimum wage rates?
HMRC can make employers pay back any underpayments and issue fines. Employers can also be publicly named and shamed.
Do zero-hours workers get minimum wage rates?
Yes anyone classed as a worker must get at least the minimum wage for every hour they work, including zero-hours and casual workers.
Can tips count towards minimum wage rates?
No tips, service charges, or gratuities can’t be used to top up pay to meet the minimum wage. The hourly rate before tips must meet or exceed the legal rate.
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