What is the National Minimum Wage?
The National Minimum Wage is set by the government as was first introduced on 1st April 1999. Some employers choose to pay the independently calculated Living Wage voluntarily. To check the Living Wage for UK and London click here Livingwage.
How much is the National Minimum Wage?
The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice.
You must be at least:
- school leaving age to get the National Minimum Wage
- aged 23 to get the National Living Wage – the minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 22 and under
- From 1 April 2024, workers aged 21 and over will be entitled to the National Living Wage.
National Minimum Wage Compliance Considerations
It is important to note there are areas of employment contracts or financial decisions made that can have an adverse on the compliance of National Minimum Wage.
These could be (among others):
- Salary sacrifice arrangements
- Holiday purchase schemes
- Hours worked during a pay period
- Age changes
- Whether the employee is in the first 12 months of an Approved Apprenticeship Framework
- Changes to contracted hours over the year
- Compulsory uniform/equipment purchases
Stay updated on the latest thresholds, avoid potential pitfalls, and uphold fair labour practices to foster a positive workplace environment.
