What's Minimum Wage UK 2026? Hourly, Weekly and Annual Pay Explained

Understanding What's Minimum Wage UK 2026

If you're asking what's minimum wage UK 2026, the answer depends on your age and employment status. From 1 April 2026, new statutory rates come into force following recommendations by the Low Pay Commission, accepted in full by the Government. These rates are legally binding for almost all workers.

Hourly Rates at a Glance

The main rates are:

• National Living Wage (21 and over): £12.71 per hour (up 50p, 4.1%)
• 18–20 year old rate: £10.85 per hour (up 85p, 8.5%)
• 16–17 year old rate: £8.00 per hour (up 45p, 6.0%)
• Apprentice rate: £8.00 per hour (up 45p, 6.0%)

These figures come directly from GOV.UK guidance and the official announcement. The apprentice rate applies to apprentices under 19, or those aged 19+ in their first year. After the first year, the age-based rate applies.

From Hourly to Weekly and Annual Pay

Understanding what's minimum wage uk 2026 in terms of weekly or annual pay helps with budgeting. For a full-time worker on the National Living Wage working 37.5 hours per week, the hourly rate of £12.71 translates to:

• Weekly gross pay: approximately £476.63
• Monthly gross pay: approximately £2,065
• Annual gross pay: approximately £24,785

According to the Low Pay Commission's analysis, the 2026 increase adds £977 to annual gross pay and £81.47 to monthly gross pay for a typical NLW worker. These are gross figures before tax, National Insurance, and any deductions.

For younger workers, the lower rates mean lower weekly and annual totals. A full-time 18–20 year old on £10.85 per hour would earn around £406.88 per week (37.5 hours), or about £21,158 annually.

Who Gets What: Age Thresholds and Exceptions

The age threshold for the National Living Wage has been gradually lowered. Since April 2024, it applies to workers aged 21 and over. The Government has stated an ambition to extend it to 18-year-olds, and the 8.5% increase for 18–20 year olds is a step in that direction.

Workers under 18 are entitled to the lower rate of £8.00. Apprentices also start at £8.00, but if they are 21 or over and have completed the first year, they must be paid the NLW of £12.71.

Accommodation Offset

If your employer provides housing, they can deduct up to £11.10 per day from your wages for accommodation. This is not a wage but a maximum allowable deduction. It rises from £10.66 in 2025/26.

Checking Your Pay

Always check your payslip to ensure you are receiving at least the correct minimum wage for your age and role. You can use the official pay guides on our site to compare rates. If you suspect underpayment, contact Acas for advice.

Beyond the Statutory Minimum

Remember, the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage are legal floors. Many employers pay more, especially in sectors with skills shortages. The voluntary Living Wage (calculated by the Living Wage Foundation) is higher and based on living costs, but it is not a legal requirement.

For more detailed breakdowns by age and region, visit our topics page. You can also explore pay data for average earnings in different occupations.

Summary

To answer what's minimum wage uk 2026: from April 2026, the National Living Wage is £12.71 per hour for workers aged 21 and over. Younger workers and apprentices have lower rates. These are statutory minimums; your actual pay may be higher. Always check your contract and the current rates on UK Minimum Wage to stay informed.