What is the minimum wage?

The National Minimum Wage is the hourly wage that you are legally entitled to. It is determined by the government, and all businesses, regardless of size or industry, are legally compelled to contribute the agreed-upon amount to their employees. If they do not, it is a criminal offence.

What is the hourly minimum wage?

The most crucial thing to keep in mind is how much money you can make.

The amount you are entitled to will vary depending on your age, and if you are working as an apprentice.

The current hourly minimum wage for workers is as follows:

• The hourly rate for persons aged 23 and up is £8.91. (now known as the National Living Wage)
• The hourly rate for those aged 21 to 22 is £8.36.
• The hourly rate for those aged 18 to 20 is £6.56.
• The hourly cost for those under the age of 18 is £4.62.
• The hourly rate for apprentices between the ages of 16 and 18 (or those above the age of nineteen in their first year) will be £4.30.

However, keep in mind that these statistics are just meant to be used as a guideline. The actual amount changes every year (typically around April/October), so it's always good staying up to date to avoid being underpaid.

Is the minimum wage available to all employees?

To be eligible for the minimum wage, all employees must be of school-age or older.

Those who are also entitled to the minimum wage include:

• Part-time workers
• Temporary workers
• Disabled workers
• Agricultural workers
• Workers from overseas
• Apprentices (who receive a slightly separate apprentice rate)
• Casual labourers
• Workers / homeworkers who are paid by the number of items they make
• Trainee / workers on probation
• Offshore workers
• Seafarers

However, the minimum wage is not available to self-employed people, company directors, volunteers, members of the military services, or individuals on work placements.

What does not qualify for the minimum wage?

You may be paid more than the minimum wage for some types of labour. These are some examples:

• Overtime, weekend or night shifts
• Working on a bank holiday
• Working longer than agreed hours
• Tips or gratuities or service charges you receive

Accommodation and the minimum wage

If your employer provides you with housing, the cost of this might be factored into the minimum wage calculation. Other employee benefits provided by the firm, such as daycare vouchers, meals, or a car allowance, are not considered when determining the minimum wage.

How can I find out how much minimum wage I'm entitled to?

If you're still unsure about the minimum wage, talk to your employer's human resources department, your union (if you belong to one), or check the government website. These sources will be able to check whether or not you are being paid the correct minimum wage per hour.

What can I do if I am not paid the minimum wage?

• If you believe you have not been paid the correct minimum wage, it is most likely a simple error that can be readily corrected by bringing it up with your employer. This applies even if you are no longer employed by the company.
• It will strengthen your argument by demonstrating that you were paid the erroneous minimum wage. A computation of the minimum wage you are entitled to from a trustworthy source, such as the government website or a copy of a payslip or your contract, will help to strengthen your case.
• If your employer (or ex-employer) is unable or unwilling to address the issue, you can file a formal complaint, also known as a grievance. You may also be required to file a claim with an employment tribunal or report the company to HMRC.