Each year the Government raises both the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage. It’s crucial that all employers ensure their employees are paid correctly to avoid any penalties.
From 1 April 2024, the age eligibility threshold for the National Living Wage will lower, marking the first decrease since 2021. This means that employees aged 21 years and over will now be entitled to the National Living Wage, reflecting an expansion of fair wage standards in the workforce.
Employees that are 20 years old and under (for those of at least school leaving age), are still entitled to the National Minimum Wage. Apprentices may be entitled to the apprenticeship rate if they are 19 years old or younger, or aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.
The rates below will come into effect from 1 April 2024:
| 21 year olds and over | £11.44 per hour |
| 18 – 20 year olds | £8.60 per hour |
| Under 18s | £6.40 per hour |
| Apprentice aged 19 or under or aged 19 and over in the first year of their apprenticeship | £6.40 per hour |
If you have any enquires about the updates to the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, please reach out to our payroll department. We’re here to assist you in any way possible.
Author: Claire Proctor, CT: Payroll
