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 21 or over
- National Minimum Wage (NMW) if you're aged under 21 or an apprentice
Current rates
| Wage band | Current 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 |
The government reviews minimum wage rates every year and they're usually updated in April. Check when rate increases must be paid.
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.