Millions of workers across the UK woke up to a pay rise today as the new National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates came into force on 1 April 2026. Whether you’re wondering what the minimum wage is right now, when it went up, or how much you’ll actually take home, here’s everything you need to know.
When Did the Minimum Wage Go Up?
The new rates took effect on 1 April 2026. The National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage increased on 1 April 2026, giving a pay rise to around 2.7 million workers across the UK, including apprentices.
This annual increase happens every April, following recommendations made by the Low Pay Commission (LPC) — the independent body that advises the government on wage levels.
What Is the Minimum Wage in 2026?
The rate you’re entitled to depends on your age. From April 2026, the new hourly rates are: workers aged 21 and over — £12.71, workers aged 18 to 20 — £10.85, workers aged 16 to 17 — £8.00, and apprentices — £8.00.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 21 and over (National Living Wage): £12.71 per hour
- 18–20: £10.85 per hour
- 16–17: £8.00 per hour
- Apprentices: £8.00 per hour
How Much Did Minimum Wage Go Up?
The National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over rose from £12.21 to £12.71 per hour — a 4.1% increase. The rate for those aged 18 to 20 increased from £10.00 to £10.85, representing an 8.5% rise.
Workers aged 16 to 17 and those on apprenticeships saw a 6% increase, bringing their rate up from £7.55 to £8.00 an hour.
What’s the Difference Between the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage?
It’s a common source of confusion. The National Living Wage (NLW) is the higher rate paid to workers aged 21 and over, while the National Minimum Wage (NMW) refers to the lower rates for younger workers and apprentices. Both are legally required minimums set by the government — your employer must pay at least these rates or face penalties.
There is also a separate, voluntary Real Living Wage set by the Living Wage Foundation, which is higher than the legal minimum and based on the actual cost of living. The Real Living Wage is £12.60 per hour outside London and £13.85 per hour in London — but employers are not legally obliged to pay it.
What Will You Actually Take Home?
Knowing your hourly rate is one thing — your real take-home pay after tax and National Insurance is what matters. A full-time worker on the National Living Wage working 37.5 hours a week takes home approximately £1,710 per month after tax and National Insurance.
For context, a full-time worker on the National Minimum Wage will soon earn in the region of £25,000 per year before tax.
Why Has the Minimum Wage Gone Up So Much?
The Low Pay Commission had recommended the National Living Wage rise following stronger than expected wage growth, and the recommendation was confirmed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the Autumn Budget.
The Low Pay Commission expects the new rate to stay ahead of changes in the cost of living up to March 2027, meaning a real-terms increase for minimum wage workers.
The government has also stated its long-term ambition to eventually align the NMW and NLW into a single adult wage rate, meaning younger workers can expect their rates to continue rising faster than those of adults in the coming years.
Will My Employer Pay the New Rate Automatically?
Yes — your employer is legally required to pay you at least the new rate from 1 April 2026. If you’re not sure whether you’re being paid correctly, you can check the official government Check Your Pay service at checkyourpay.campaign.gov.uk.
If you believe you’re being underpaid, you can report it to HMRC. Paying below the National Minimum Wage is illegal and employers can face fines and public naming.
What Happens Next?
The Low Pay Commission’s remit for the 2027 uprating was published on 16 March 2026, with two-thirds of median hourly earnings continuing to be the key reference point for future National Living Wage rates. So further rises are already on the horizon — watch this space next autumn for the announcement of April 2027 rates.
Photo by Vitaly Gariev: https://www.pexels.com/photo/business-meeting-with-contract-review-in-office-36733329/
