UK minimum wage to increase on April 1

In April, millions of workers will see a pay rise as the minimum wage increases. The minimum wage is the lowest hourly rate employers must pay their employees. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a 6.7% increase in the Autumn Budget last October. For full-time workers earning the minimum wage, this change could mean an extra £1,400 a year. The new minimum wage rates are: - Ages 21 and over: from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour - Ages 18 to 20: from £8.60 to £10.00 per hour - Under 18: from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour - Apprentices: from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour Reeves emphasized the government's promise to ensure a living wage, while Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said this pay boost will aid millions of lower earners. The National Living Wage applies to those aged 21 and older. Meanwhile, the National Minimum Wage is for younger workers. Some groups, like self-employed individuals or volunteers, do not receive minimum wage protections. Many companies pay the Real Living Wage, which is a higher voluntary rate. This wage will rise to £12.60 per hour outside London and £13.85 within London by May 2025. To receive this wage, workers must be 18 or older and work for a participating employer. Workers who believe they are underpaid should check their payslips. If there are issues, they should first talk to their employer. If the matter is not resolved, they can contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) for help. Workers can also report employers who do not comply with wage laws to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), which can investigate and penalize offenders. There are limits on how long workers have to make wage complaints. Claims must be filed within three months minus one day from the payment due date. If ongoing incorrect payments occur, the clock restarts from the last missed payment date.