Understanding the Under 18 Minimum Wage Rate for 2026

Understanding the Under 18 Minimum Wage

If you are a worker under 18 in the UK, the under 18 minimum wage is the legal minimum your employer must pay you per hour. From 1 April 2026, this rate is £8.00 per hour, an increase of 45p from the previous £7.55. This rate applies to all workers who are above the compulsory school leaving age (usually 16) but under 18. It is sometimes called the 16-17 Year Old Rate.

The rate is set annually by the government following recommendations from the independent Low Pay Commission. For 2026, the government accepted the LPC’s proposals in full, as confirmed by GOV.UK guidance. The increase of 6% is designed to ensure that pay for younger workers does not become too detached from rates for older age groups.

How the Rate Compares to Other Age Bands

The under 18 minimum wage is the lowest statutory hourly rate. For comparison:

• National Living Wage (21 and over): £12.71 per hour
• 18-20 Year Old Rate: £10.85 per hour
• Apprentice Rate: £8.00 per hour (for apprentices under 19 or in their first year)

The 18-20 rate is now at 85% of the NLW, reflecting the government’s aim to eventually reduce the gap. The under 18 rate is lower, partly because younger workers often have fewer responsibilities and may be in part-time or training roles.

Who Is Entitled to the Under 18 Rate?

You are entitled to the under 18 minimum wage if you are:

• Aged 16 or 17 (or under 18 but above school leaving age)
• Not an apprentice (or if you are an apprentice, the apprentice rate applies)
• Working as an employee, worker, or agency worker

If you are an apprentice under 19 or in your first year, you receive the apprentice rate of £8.00 per hour. If you are an apprentice aged 19 or over and beyond your first year, you may be entitled to the rate for your age group (18-20 or 21+).

What This Means for Your Pay

The £8.00 rate is the minimum your employer can pay you. Many employers pay more, especially in sectors like retail, hospitality, or care. Your actual pay may be higher depending on your role, experience, and location. Always check your employment contract for your agreed hourly rate.

Remember that the statutory rate is before deductions. Your take-home pay will be lower after tax, National Insurance, and any pension contributions. For example, if you work 20 hours per week at £8.00, your gross weekly pay is £160. After deductions, your net pay will be less.

If you are provided with living accommodation by your employer, they can offset up to £11.10 per day from your pay (the accommodation offset rate from April 2026). This is a legal maximum, so your employer cannot deduct more than that for accommodation.

How the Rate Is Enforced

The government publishes data on jobs paid below the minimum wage through the Office for National Statistics. If you think you are being paid less than the under 18 minimum wage, you can contact Acas for advice or report your employer to HMRC. Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage can face fines and be publicly named.

Practical Tips for Young Workers

• Check your age band: Make sure your employer is paying you the correct rate for your age. If you turn 18, you become entitled to the 18-20 rate (£10.85).
• Keep records: Note your hours and pay slips. If you suspect underpayment, you have evidence.
• Ask about overtime: Some employers pay a higher rate for overtime, but this is not required by law.
• Look for better pay: Many employers advertise rates above the minimum. Use job sites and pay guides to compare typical pay for your role.

For more details on all minimum wage rates, visit the UK Minimum Wage. You can also explore topics related to young workers’ rights and pay.

Summary

The under 18 minimum wage for 2026 is £8.00 per hour, a 6% increase from the previous year. It applies to workers aged 16-17 (and under 18) who are not apprentices. While this is the legal floor, many employers pay more. Always check your contract and know your rights. If you have concerns, seek advice from Acas or HMRC.