What is the minimum wage - National Minimum Wage

What is the minimum wage

By law, your employer must pay a minimum amount on average for the hours you work. This is called the:

  • National Living Wage (NLW) if you're aged 23 or over
  • National Minimum Wage (NMW) if you're aged under 23 or an apprentice

Current rates

Wage band Current rate (from 1 April 2023)

Age 23 or over (National Living Wage)

£10.42
Age 21 to 22 £10.18
Age 18 to 20 £7.49
Under 18 £5.28
Apprentice £5.28

The government reviews minimum wage rates every year and they're usually updated in April. Check when rate increases must be paid.

Rates from 1 April 2024

From 1 April 2024, if you're aged 21 and over you will be entitled to the National Living Wage.

Wage band Rate from 1 April 2024

Age 21 or over (National Living Wage)

£11.44
Age 18 to 20 £8.60
Under 18 £6.40
Apprentice £6.40

Who gets the apprentice rate

You're entitled to be paid at least the apprentice rate if you're an apprentice aged:

  • under 19
  • 19 or over, and in the first year of your current apprenticeship agreement

If you're 19 or over and have completed the first year of your current apprenticeship, you're entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage for your age.

Last reviewed