The UK National Minimum wage is the minimum pay per hour a UK business can legally pay an employee. The Government review and establish this wage every year to ensure that workers receive a wage that covers the basic living costs. The rates are to increase, for most, by 9.7% in
April 2023 bringing the pay of millions up to £10.42 per hour, see the table below.
Age | Minimum Rate from April 2023 | Minimum Rate from April 2022 | Percentage Increase |
23 and Over | £10.42 | £9.50 | 9.7% |
21 to 22 | £10.18 | £9.18 | 10.9% |
18 to 20 | £7.49 | £6.83 | 9.7% |
16 to 17 | £5.28 | £4.81 | 9.7% |
Apprentice | £5.28 | £4.81 | 9.7% |
Accommodation Offset | £9.10 | £8.70 | 4.6% |
The minimum wage rates apply to all UK workers even if they are not paid by the hour, so you must ensure this is calculated carefully.
The minimum wage does not apply to workers who are self-employed, company directors, unpaid volunteers and family members who live in the home of the employer and do household chores.
Rules for Apprentice Pay
Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they are either
· Aged under 19
· Aged over 19 and in the first year of their apprenticeship
Example
An apprentice aged 21 in the first year of their apprenticeship are entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £5.28
Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they are both:
· Aged 19 or over
· Have completed the first year of their apprenticeship.
Example
An apprentice aged 21 who has completed the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £10.18
Further information can be found at www.gov.uk
