The National Living Wage increased to 12.21 per hour on 1 April 2026, the highest mandatory pay floor in UK history.
The New Rates
National Living Wage (21 and over): 12.21 per hour, up from 11.44. A 6.7% increase.
Age 18-20 rate: 10.00 per hour
Age 16-17 and apprentices: 7.55 per hour
Who Is Entitled
The minimum wage applies to workers aged 16 and over including part-time, zero-hours, agency, and casual workers. It does not apply to the genuinely self-employed.
Common Violations
HMRC enforces minimum wage legislation. Common violations include unlawful deductions for uniforms, paying only for some hours worked, and failing to pay for travel time.
If You Are Underpaid
Complain confidentially to HMRC. They investigate all complaints and can require employers to pay arrears going back six years. Employers who refuse to pay can be fined up to 20,000 pounds per worker.
