The UK Government has confirmed that statutory minimum pay rates will rise again from April 2026, affecting millions of workers across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The increase applies to the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage, following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission. Employers will be legally required to apply the new rates from the first full pay period after the April start date.
Here’s what has been confirmed, who benefits, and what workers should check on their payslips.
Why the Minimum Wage Is Rising in 2026
Each year, the UK Government reviews minimum wage levels to reflect:
- Inflation trends
- Earnings growth
- Labour market conditions
- Business sustainability
With ongoing pressure from food prices, rent, council tax and energy costs, the 2026 increase is designed to protect lower-paid workers from falling behind.
The aim is to reduce in-work poverty while maintaining stable employment levels.
What Is the National Living Wage?
The National Living Wage applies to adult workers and represents the highest legal hourly pay floor in the UK.
The HM Government sets the rate each April following Low Pay Commission recommendations.
Younger workers and apprentices fall under the National Minimum Wage structure, which uses age-based tiers.
When Do the New Rates Start?
The new minimum wage rates take effect from:
1 April 2026
Workers should see the updated rate in their:
- April payslip (monthly pay)
- First April pay period (weekly pay)
If you are paid after April begins, your hourly rate must reflect the new legal minimum.
Who Benefits Most?
The increase will directly benefit:
- Retail staff
- Hospitality workers
- Care workers
- Warehouse and logistics staff
- Cleaners and security workers
- Zero-hour contract workers
- Part-time employees
Younger workers aged 18–20 and apprentices will also see structured increases.
Full-time minimum wage workers could see hundreds of pounds added to annual earnings.
How It Affects Take-Home Pay
Although gross hourly pay increases, your net income depends on:
- Income tax
- National Insurance contributions
- Pension deductions
Even after deductions, most full-time workers will notice a measurable rise in monthly income.
What Workers Should Check
From April 2026:
- Confirm your new hourly rate
- Check total hours paid
- Ensure correct deductions
- Compare against official minimum wage tables
If your employer fails to apply the new rate, you can:
- Raise it informally first
- Contact ACAS for advice
- Report underpayment to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), which enforces minimum wage law
Employers who underpay can face penalties and repayment orders.
What This Means for Employers
Businesses must:
- Update payroll systems
- Budget for increased staffing costs
- Ensure compliance from April 2026
While wage rises increase operating costs, they may also:
- Improve staff retention
- Reduce recruitment costs
- Boost morale and productivity
Most UK employers now anticipate annual April adjustments as standard practice.
Regional Application
The statutory minimum wage applies nationwide:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
Rates do not vary by region under national law.
Long-Term Outlook
Minimum wage rates are reviewed annually. Future increases will depend on:
- Inflation levels
- Economic growth
- Employment data
The government’s long-term aim remains aligning the National Living Wage with a set percentage of median earnings.
FAQs
When does the 2026 minimum wage start?
From 1 April 2026.
Who qualifies for the National Living Wage?
Most workers aged 21 and over.
Do apprentices receive an increase?
Yes, apprentice rates are also updated.
Is the minimum wage the same across the UK?
Yes, statutory rates apply nationwide.
What if my employer does not increase my pay?
You can contact ACAS or report underpayment to HMRC.
