Workers across the UK are being reminded to double-check their payslips this month to ensure they are receiving the correct pay following the April 2026 minimum wage increase. The new rates, which came into effect on April 1, mean that millions of employees are now entitled to higher hourly wages.
New National Minimum Wage Rates for 2026
HMRC announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the National Minimum Wage has risen from the start of April. The updated hourly rates are as follows:
- Apprentice and under 18: £8.00 per hour (up from £7.55)
- 18 to 20-year-olds: £10.85 per hour (up from £10.00)
- 21 and over: £12.71 per hour (up from £12.21)
Apprentices qualify for the apprentice rate if they are under 19 or over 19 and in the first year of their apprenticeship. After the first year, they must be paid according to their age—for example, an apprentice aged 21 or over should receive at least £12.71 per hour from their second year onwards.
Who Is Affected?
The National Minimum Wage applies to all eligible employees, regardless of how often they are paid. Workers must calculate their equivalent hourly rate to confirm they are receiving the legal minimum. Employers are legally required to implement these changes, and failure to do so could result in penalties.
If you already earn more than the new minimum wage, your employer is not obliged to increase your salary. Pay rises for higher-wage employees are typically determined by company policy and performance, and are not guaranteed unless specified in your contract.
How to Check Your Pay
HMRC provides a free online calculator on the GOV.UK website to help workers verify their pay. You will need details about your typical working hours, payment frequency, and any accommodation or work-related expenses covered by your employer. Access the calculator at www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-calculator.
If your payslip appears incorrect, HMRC advises the following steps:
- Check for unauthorised deductions, incorrect hours, or tax errors.
- Contact your employer's HR or payroll department informally to request a correction.
- If the issue is not resolved quickly, formally raise a grievance and gather evidence of hours worked.
- Contact the Pay and Work Rights helpline on 0300 123 1100 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm) for advice.
Alternatively, you can seek guidance from the Acas website for further support on workplace rights.
