UK minimum wage checker
UK Minimum Wage & Living Wage Calculator
Compare a headline hourly rate with the 2026/27 UK National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates.
UK Government rates for 2026/27
Minimum Wage — FAQ
Everything you need to know about the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage.
What is the current minimum wage?
From April 2026, the National Living Wage (for those aged 21 and over) is £12.71 per hour.
What is the difference between NLW and NMW?
The National Living Wage is the minimum hourly rate for most workers aged 21 and over. The apprentice rate applies only to apprentices under 19, or those aged 19 and over who are still in the first year of their apprenticeship. Other apprentices receive the rate for their age.
What if I'm being paid less than the minimum wage?
If a full minimum-wage calculation shows a possible underpayment, speak to your employer first. If it is not resolved, you can contact Acas or report it to HMRC.
Who is entitled to the minimum wage?
Most workers are entitled to the minimum wage, including part-time workers, casual workers and agency workers. Self-employed people are not. A full calculation also needs the pay reference period, countable working time, deductions and any offset rules.