The National Minimum Wage rate per hour depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice – you must be at least school leaving age to qualify.
| Year | 25 and over | 21 to 24 | 18 to 20 | Under 18 | Apprentice* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 2018 (current rate) | £7.83 | £7.38 | £5.90 | £4.20 | £3.70 |
| Apr 2017 – Mar 2018 | £7.50 | £7.05 | £5.60 | £4.05 | £3.50 |
| Oct 2016 – Mar 2017 | £7.20 | £6.95 | £5.55 | £4.00 | £3.40 |
| Apr 2016 – Sep 2016 | £7.20 | £6.70 | £5.30 | £3.87 | £3.30 |
| Year | 21 and over | 18 to 20 | Under 18 | Apprentice* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | £6.70 | £5.30 | £3.87 | £3.30 |
| 2014 | £6.50 | £5.13 | £3.79 | £2.73 |
| 2013 | £6.31 | £5.03 | £3.72 | £2.68 |
| 2012 | £6.19 | £4.98 | £3.68 | £2.65 |
| 2011 | £6.08 | £4.98 | £3.68 | £2.60 |
*This rate is for apprentices aged 16 to 18 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year. All other apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for their age. The rates are usually updated every October.
National living wage
From April 2017, the national living wage will be £7.50 an hour for workers aged 25 and older. The minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 24 and under.
The age groups were different before 2010. There were no National Minimum Wage rates for apprentices.
| Year | 22 and over | 18 to 21 | Under 18 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | £5.80 | £4.83 | £3.57 |
| 2008 | £5.73 | £4.77 | £3.53 |
| 2007 | £5.52 | £4.60 | £3.40 |
| 2006 | £5.35 | £4.45 | £3.30 |
| 2005 | £5.05 | £4.25 | £3.00 |
Read the information on who is entitled to the minimum wage or use the National Minimum Wage calculator to check whether the National Minimum Wage is being paid.
For more information visit: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates