The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice.

• school leaving age to get the National Minimum Wage
• aged 23 to get the National Living Wage - the minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 22 and under
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These rates are for the National Living Wage (for those aged 23 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of at least school leaving age). The rates change on 1 April every year.

23 and over 21 to 22 18 to 20 Under 18 Apprentice

23 & Over - £8.91

21 to 22 - £8.36

18 to 20 - £6.56

Under 18 - £4.62

Apprentice - £4.30

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

• aged under 19
• aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Example

An apprentice aged 21 in the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £4.30.

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

• are aged 19 or over
• have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

Example

An apprentice aged 21 who has completed the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £8.36.