The National Minimum Wage is reviewed every year and traditionally it has been increased on 1 October. However, following the National Minimum Wage being aligned with the National Living Wage, there will be no increase in the National Minimum Wage in October this year; instead both the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage will be increased annually on 1 April.
By way of reminder, the current hourly rates are:
- the National Living Wage for workers aged 25 and over is £7.50;
- the National Minimum Wage for 21 to 24 year olds is £7.05;
- the youth development rate for 18 to 20 year olds is £5.60;
- the young workers rate for 16 and 17 year olds is £4.05; and
- the apprentice rate is £3.50.
The accommodation offset limit is £6.40 per day.
As the government continues its crack down on employers who do not pay wages at the correct rate, it is important that you review the rates you are paying to your staff. Records should be kept of dates of birth and procedures should flag up when an increase is required.
For further advice on any of the issues raised in this article, or for employment law advice more generally, please call us on 0203 740 2360 or email [email protected].
