23/04/2026
National Minimum Wage changes are now in effect — are you fully aligned?
From April 2026, new National Minimum Wage rates have come into force across all age groups.
Key changes include:
£12.71 for workers aged 21+
£10.85 for 18–20 year olds
£8.00 for under 18s and apprentices.
For employers, it’s not just about updating hourly rates.
It’s about making sure:
• Payroll systems reflect the changes correctly
• All workers are being paid for every hour worked
• Deductions don’t accidentally bring pay below minimum levels
• Compliance is watertight across the business.
Even small oversights can lead to underpayment — and potential HMRC action.
We’ve broken down what these changes mean and what to check in our latest blog. Read more 👉https://bit.ly/4tJmBCi
If keeping on top of changes like this is becoming time-consuming, it might be worth reviewing your payroll process.
Each April, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates increase, but complying with the new figures involves far more than simply adjusting an hourly rate. Employers must consider working hours, deductions, bonuses, accommodation, and pay reference periods to ensure full compliance. Below is an overview