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About the National Minimum Wage

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is a minimum amount per hour that most workers in the UK are entitled to be paid. The rate depends on age and whether the worker is an apprentice.

New rates from October

The new rates will come into force on 1 October 2012, as follows:

• £6.19 per hour for workers aged 21 and over - a rise of 11p
• £4.98 per hour for 18-20 year olds - no change
• £3.68 per hour for workers above school leaving age but under 18 - no change
• £2.65 per hour for apprentices - a rise of 5p

If your employer provides you with accommodation, they can count some of its value towards your NMW pay. This is called the accommodation offset. From October, the maximum that employers can count towards NMW pay will be £4.82 - a rise of 9p.

Why is the National Minimum Wage changing?

The new rates were recommended by the Low Pay Commission. This is an independent body that was set up to advise government following the National Minimum Wage Act 1998.

• Low Pay Commission Opens new window

Help getting paid the National Minimum Wage

Most workers are entitled to the NMW (see 'Workers entitled to the National Minimum Wage' for more information). If you think that you aren't getting the minimum wage, speak to your employer or contact the Pay and Work Rights Helpline.

• Workers entitled to the National Minimum Wage

• Pay and Work Rights Helpline