The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is the legal minimum hourly wage that most workers in the United Kingdom are entitled to. It is set by the government and reviewed every year.
The NMW for 2023/24 is as below:
| Age | 2023/24 |
| Workers aged 23 and over | £10.42 per hour |
| 21 to 22 year olds | £10.18 per hour |
| 18 to 20 year olds | £7.49 per hour |
| under 18 year olds | £5.28 per hour |
| Apprentice if either: – aged under 19 – aged 19+ and in the first year of apprenticeship | £5.28 per hour |
| Apprentice if both: – aged 19+ – have completed the first year of apprenticeship | £10.18 per hour |
The NMW applies to all workers, regardless of their age, sex, race, or nationality. However, there are some exceptions, such as workers who are in training or who are paid by tips.
If you are not sure whether you are entitled to the NMW, visit the .gov.uk website.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the NMW:
- The NMW is not the same as the National Living Wage (NLW). The NLW is a higher rate of pay that applies to workers aged 23 and over.
- The NMW is usually paid weekly, but it can also be paid monthly or by the hour.
- Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers are paid the NMW.
- If you are not paid the NMW and think you should be, you can contact ACAS.
