What is the minimum wage going up to in 2026? Age bands and eligibility explained

What is the minimum wage going up to in 2026? A guide to age bands and eligibility

If you’re a UK worker or job seeker, you’ve probably asked yourself: what is the minimum wage going up to in 2026? The answer depends on your age and employment status. From April 2026, the government has accepted the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations to increase all statutory minimum wage rates. Here’s a clear breakdown by age band, plus what it means for your take-home pay.

National Living Wage (21 and over)

The National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 21 and over rises by 4.1% to £12.71 per hour. That’s an extra 50p compared to the 2025 rate of £12.21. According to GOV.UK guidance, this increase is expected to keep the NLW ahead of the cost of living up to March 2027, providing a real-terms pay rise for minimum wage workers. The Low Pay Commission notes that two-thirds of median hourly earnings for this age group could reach around £13.18 by October 2027, but that’s a projection, not a guarantee.

18-20 Year Old Rate

The rate for workers aged 18 to 20 sees a larger percentage increase of 8.5%, taking it to £10.85 per hour (up 85p from £10.00). This is part of the government’s long-term plan to narrow the gap between the youth rate and the NLW. At 85% of the NLW, the gap is now similar to the early years of the national minimum wage. The Low Pay Commission’s remit asks it to balance labour market conditions with the goal of eventually eliminating the difference altogether.

Under 18 and Apprentice Rates

Both the 16-17 Year Old Rate and the Apprentice Rate increase by 6% to £8.00 per hour (up 45p from £7.55). The apprentice rate applies to apprentices under 19 or those in the first year of their apprenticeship. These increases ensure that pay for younger workers and apprentices does not become too detached from the rates for older workers. The accommodation offset – the amount an employer can deduct if they provide living accommodation – also rises to £11.10 per day.

How the rates affect take-home pay

It’s important to remember that the headline hourly rate isn’t the same as what you’ll actually take home. Your net pay depends on tax, National Insurance, and any benefits you receive, such as Universal Credit. The Low Pay Commission’s analysis shows that a single full-time NLW worker (35 hours per week) will see a 3.3% increase in weekly take-home pay – about £11.90 extra. However, if you receive Universal Credit, the above-inflation increase to the standard allowance (6.2%) means your total household income could rise by more than the 4.1% NLW increase. Conversely, if you pay tax but don’t receive UC, frozen tax thresholds mean your average tax rate increases slightly, so your take-home pay rises by less than the headline rate.

Future changes to age bands

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to lowering the NLW age from 21 to 18, but the Low Pay Commission has “full flexibility to determine the pace and ultimate timing”. Any change will give priority to the employment prospects of younger workers. For now, the current age bands remain in place for 2026. If you’re 18–20, you’ll still receive the lower rate, but the gap is shrinking. Keep an eye on UK Minimum Wage for updates on any future changes.

What this means for job seekers and employers

If you’re looking for work, knowing the statutory minimum for your age group helps you understand your rights. Employers must pay at least these rates, and many sectors – like retail, hospitality, and care – pay the minimum or just above. For employers, the increases mean higher wage bills, especially for younger staff. The Low Pay Commission estimates that around 5.9% of jobs (1.7 million) will be paid at or just above the NLW from April 2026, a slight fall from the previous year.

For more detailed pay data and comparisons across sectors, visit our pay data page. And if you’re unsure about your specific situation, our pay guides offer practical advice on negotiating pay and understanding your contract.

Summary of 2026 minimum wage rates

Age band / category	Rate from April 2026	Increase (£)	Increase (%)
National Living Wage (21+)	£12.71	£0.50	4.1%
18-20 Year Old Rate	£10.85	£0.85	8.5%
16-17 Year Old Rate	£8.00	£0.45	6.0%
Apprentice Rate	£8.00	£0.45	6.0%
Accommodation Offset (per day)	£11.10	£0.44	4.1%

These figures come from the Low Pay Commission’s 2026 report and the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Regulations 2026. Always check your contract and the latest topics page for any updates.

Final thoughts

So, what is the minimum wage going up to in 2026? For most workers aged 21 and over, it’s £12.71 per hour. For 18–20 year olds, it’s £10.85, and for under 18s and apprentices, it’s £8.00. These increases are designed to keep pay rising in real terms while supporting employment. If you’re unsure which rate applies to you, check your age and employment status – and remember that the law requires your employer to pay at least the statutory minimum. For more information, visit about to learn how we keep this guide up to date.