What is the minimum wage
The government sets a minimum amount you must get paid on average for the hours you work. This is called the National Minimum Wage (NMW) or the National Living Wage (NLW) if you’re aged 25 or over.
Current rates for the minimum wage
The minimum wage rate varies depending on your age and whether you're an apprentice.
| Wage band | Current rate | Rate from 1 April 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| 25 and over | £8.21 | £8.72 |
| 21 to 24 | £7.70 | £8.20 |
| 18 to 20 | £6.15 | £6.45 |
| Under 18 | £4.35 | £4.55 |
| Apprentice | £3.90 | £4.15 |
Minimum wage rates are reviewed every year. They usually change in April if there's an increase. See when rate increases must be paid.
See previous minimum wage rates on GOV.UK.
Who gets the apprentice rate
You’re entitled to 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 the minimum wage for your age.
National Minimum Wage entitlement