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All workers in the UK aged 16 or over are legally entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW). This is a minimum amount per hour that your employer is legally required to pay you, regardless of the kind of work you do or the company you work for. There are some exceptions – these include those who are self-employed, apprentices, au pairs, and people in the armed services or voluntary workers. The NMW rate is reviewed every year, and any increases happen each October. The rate is based on recommendations to the Government by the independent Low Pay Commission |
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The NMW depends on the age of the worker. The rates from 1st October 2007 are:
- Adults - £5.52 per hour (aged 22 and over)
- The 'development rate' - £4.60 per hour for workers aged 18 to 21 inclusive
- Young people (16-18) - £3.40 per hour
Apprentices under the age of 19 are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage. Apprentices who are 19 or over and in the first 12 months of their apprenticeship are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage. |
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Some groups are not entitled to the NMW, including: workers under school leaving age, people who are genuinely self-employed, some apprentices (see above), au pairs, people in the armed services and voluntary workers. |
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Agricultural workers have separate pay rates set by the Agricultural Wages Board. |
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You need to make sure you have calculated your pay correctly. All employees have the right to be given a document setting out how your pay is calculated. If you think you’re not getting what you are entitled to, you should talk to your employer, who may have made a simple mistake. If speaking to your employer doesn't help, or if you don't want to speak to your employer, you can call the minimum wage helpline. Calls are confidential, and you can ask for help in claiming the minimum wage including back pay. If necessary, National Minimum Wage Compliance Officers can investigate on your behalf and take action to obtain payment from your employer. Not paying you the National Minimum Wage if you are entitled to it can also count as an unlawful deduction from wages. |
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Employment 
