National Minimum Wage to Increase 2014

As of October 1st 2014 the National Minimum Wage rates will rise for all workers and apprentices, including a 19p per hour increase for adult workers.

The National Minimum Wage is the minimum pay rate per hour that workers in the UK are entitled to. This rate depends on the age of the worker and if they are an apprentice.

As of next month the National Minimum Wage rates will change as follows:

• Adult Rate (for workers aged 21+) 
• 1 Oct 2014: £6.50
• 1 Oct 2013: £6.31
• 1 Oct 2012: £6.19
• 1 Oct 2011: £6.08
• 1 Oct 2010: £5.93
• Development Rate (for workers aged 18-20)
• 1 Oct 2014: £5.13
• 1 Oct 2013: £5.03
• 1 Oct 2012: £4.98
• 1 Oct 2011: £4.98
• 1 Oct 2010: £4.92
• 16-17 Year Old Rate
• 1 Oct 2014: £3.79
• 1 Oct 2013: £3.72
• 1 Oct 2012: £3.68
• 1 Oct 2011: £3.68
• 1 Oct 2010: £3.64
• Apprentice Rate
• 1 Oct 2014: £2.73
• 1 Oct 2013: £2.68
• 1 Oct 2012: £2.65
• 1 Oct 2011: £2.60
• 1 Oct 2010: £2.50

The new minimums represent a 2-3% increase and apply to anyone who is employed in the UK. This includes pieceworkers, home workers, those working for or through agencies, commission workers and all part-time or casual employees – no matter the region, industry or size of the company.

If you are a worker from outside the UK and are legally working in the UK, the National Minimum Wage still applies - it doesn't matter how long or short a time you've been working in the UK.

There are exceptions, however. The NMW does not apply to anyone who is self-employed, volunteers and voluntary workers, or company directors.

If you think that you aren't getting the minimum wage, make sure you speak to your employer or contact the Pay and Work Rights Helpline on 0800 917 2368.