From 1 April 2026 the National Living Wage is £12.71 an hour for workers aged 21 and over. The rate is £10.85 for 18 to 20 year olds, and £8.00 for under-18s and apprentices. Apprentices under 19, or 19 and over in the first year of their apprenticeship, get the apprentice rate; after that they get the rate for their age.
Step by step
- Check age and apprentice statusOn the pay date.
- Find the rateFrom the table below.
- Divide pay by hoursFor the pay reference period, before tax.
- Pay any arrearsImmediately, if pay was below the minimum.
| Age / type | April 2025 | April 2026 | April 2027 (announced, to be set by regulations) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 and over | £12.21 | £12.71 | £13.21 |
| 18 to 20 | £10.00 | £10.85 | £11.27 |
| Under 18 | £7.55 | £8.00 | £8.31 |
| Apprentice | £7.55 | £8.00 | £8.31 |
Worked example. A 22-year-old paid £1,200 for 100 hours earns £12.00 an hour. That is 71p below £12.71: £71.00 short for the period.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage for a 21 year old in 2026?
£12.71 an hour: the National Living Wage applies from age 21.
What is the apprentice minimum wage?
£8.00 an hour from April 2026, for apprentices under 19 or in the first year.
What happens if I underpay?
You must pay the arrears immediately. HMRC can send a notice for arrears plus a fine.
Sources
- National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates – GOV.UK
- The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage – GOV.UK
Related guides
- Employers & HRHow to calculate holiday pay for irregular-hours and part-year workers in the UK
- Employers & HRHow to calculate the Bradford Factor, with examples
- Employers & HRStatutory Sick Pay: a guide for employers (2026/27)
- Employers & HRStatutory Maternity Pay: a guide for employers
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Last checked 4 November 2026. Rules change; check the sources above.