The National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage set legally enforceable floors on pay. From April 2026, the NLW for workers aged 21 and over is £12.21 per hour. Underpayment is illegal.
- Current rates from April 2026
- What counts as pay
- If you think you are underpaid
Current rates from April 2026
Workers aged 21 and over: £12.21 per hour. Workers aged 18-20: £10.00 per hour. Workers aged 16-17: £7.55 per hour. Apprentices in their first year or under 19: £7.55 per hour.
These rates apply to all workers including part-time, agency, and zero-hours contract workers.
What counts as pay
Tips paid through payroll do not count towards minimum wage — workers are entitled to the minimum before tips. Certain deductions for required equipment or clothing may constitute underpayment.
If you think you are underpaid
Check your payslip. Calculate your hourly rate from total pay and hours worked. Raise it with your employer first. If unresolved, report to HMRC's National Minimum Wage enforcement team, which investigates confidentially and can require arrears for up to six years.
Bottom line
Underpayment is more common than most people realise, particularly in hospitality, retail, care, and cleaning. Know your rate, check your payslip, and report underpayment — it is illegal and HMRC takes enforcement seriously.