The Government has today announced increases to minimum wage rates from April 2026. The National Living Wage, the minimum wage rate for all workers aged 21 and over, will rise by 4.1 per cent to £12.71. The minimum wage for 18-20 year olds will increase to £10.85 and the rate for 16-17 year olds will increase to £8.00.

In announcing these increases, the Government has accepted in full the recommendations made by the Low Pay Commission.

The increase in the National Living Wage will ensure a real-terms pay rise for low-paid workers. It will meet the Government’s aim to ensure the rate does not drop below two-thirds of median earnings. The increase to the 18-20 Year Old Rate makes progress towards alignment with the National Living Wage.

The rates announced today are: NMW Rate Increase (£)

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