It’s essential to understand what’s minimum wage if you are working or planning to work in the UK. The minimum wage hourly rate isn’t a single figure; it depends on your age and whether you are undertaking an apprenticeship. This guide breaks down the current and upcoming minimum wage rates in the UK, ensuring you know your entitlements.
Current Minimum Wage Rates in the UK
The rates for both the National Living Wage (for those 21 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of school leaving age and above) are updated every April. Here’s a clear overview of the current rates and the changes coming in April 2025:
| Age Group | April 2024 (Current Rate) | April 2025 (Proposed Rate) |
|---|---|---|
| 21 and over | £11.44 | £12.21 |
| 18 to 20 | £8.60 | £10.00 |
| Under 18 | £6.40 | £7.55 |
| Apprentice | £6.40 | £7.55 |
These rates are legally binding, and employers must adhere to them. Understanding these brackets helps both employees and employers ensure fair compensation.
Minimum Wage for Apprentices Explained
Apprentices have a specific minimum wage rate, acknowledging their training status. The apprentice rate applies if you are:
- Under 19 years old.
- Aged 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship.
For example, if you are an apprentice aged 21 but in your first year, you are entitled to the apprentice minimum hourly rate of £6.40 (current rate).
However, apprentices aged 19 or older who have completed the first year of their apprenticeship are entitled to the minimum wage rate applicable to their age group. For instance, an apprentice aged 21 who has finished their first year is entitled to at least £11.44 per hour, the same as the National Living Wage for their age group.
Historical Minimum Wage Rates
To see how minimum wage rates have evolved, here’s a look at the previous rates.
Rates from April 2021 to March 2024
| Age Group | April 2023 to March 2024 | April 2022 to March 2023 | April 2021 to March 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 and over | £10.42 | £9.50 | £8.91 |
| 21 to 22 | £10.18 | £9.18 | £8.36 |
| 18 to 20 | £7.49 | £6.83 | £6.56 |
| Under 18 | £5.28 | £4.81 | £4.62 |
| Apprentice | £5.28 | £4.81 | £4.30 |
Note: Before April 1, 2024, the National Living Wage applied to those aged 23 and over.
Rates Before April 2021
| Age Group | April 2020 to March 2021 | April 2019 to March 2020 | April 2018 to March 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 and over | £8.72 | £8.21 | £7.83 |
| 21 to 24 | £8.20 | £7.70 | £7.38 |
| 18 to 20 | £6.45 | £6.15 | £5.90 |
| Under 18 | £4.55 | £4.35 | £4.20 |
| Apprentice | £4.15 | £3.90 | £3.70 |
Note: Before April 1, 2021, the National Living Wage applied to those aged 25 and over.
Need More Information?
To understand more about who is entitled to the minimum wage, you can read detailed information on who gets the minimum wage.
If you want to check if you are being paid the correct minimum wage, use the minimum wage calculator.
If you believe you are not receiving the National Minimum Wage and should be, contact Acas for assistance.
Understanding what’s minimum wage and ensuring you receive the correct pay is crucial for your financial well-being. Stay informed about your rights and the applicable rates based on your age and employment status.
