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UK Minimum Wage 2026: What Employees and Employers Need to Know

From 1 April 2026, the UK government will implement new minimum wage rates, impacting both employees and employers across the country. Following the recommendations of the independent Low Pay Commission, these changes ensure fair pay and reflect the rising cost of living.

Understanding these changes is essential whether you’re looking for work or managing a team. Here’s what you need to know.

New Minimum Wage Rates (Effective 1 April 2026)

The updated statutory rates are:

  • National Living Wage (21+): £12.71 per hour (previously £12.21)

  • 18–20 Year Old Rate: £10.85 per hour (previously £10.00)

  • 16–17 Year Old Rate: £8.00 per hour (previously £7.55)

  • Apprentice Rate: £8.00 per hour (previously £7.55)

  • Accommodation Offset Rate: £11.10 per day (previously £10.66)

These increases provide a real terms boost for workers and help businesses remain compliant with UK labour law.

For Candidates: What This Means for You

If you’re looking for work or are currently employed, these changes could have a direct impact on your take-home pay:

  • Higher hourly rates for all age groups and apprentices.

  • Improved earnings for part-time and irregular hours, as minimum pay rules apply to all eligible employees.

  • Greater transparency around wages, ensuring you are paid fairly for your role.

Whether you’re starting a new job or reviewing your current contract, the April 2026 changes are a chance to confirm you are receiving the correct rate and understand your rights as a worker.

For Clients: How Employers Should Prepare

For businesses and hiring managers, the new minimum wage increases mean:

  • Payroll updates must be applied from 1 April to avoid underpayment.

  • Review of contracts for younger employees and apprentices to ensure compliance.

  • Budgeting for wage increases, particularly for organisations with large entry-level or young workforces.

  • Holiday pay, overtime, and variable hours must be calculated based on the new rates where applicable.

Staying ahead of these changes is essential to maintain compliance and continue offering competitive, fair wages to employees.

Key Takeaways

  • Effective Date: 1 April 2026

  • All eligible employees must receive at least the new statutory rates

  • Both candidates and employers should review contracts and payroll

  • Young workers and apprentices benefit from significant increases

For full guidance on the new rates, visit the UK Government’s official minimum wage page.