National Living & Minimum Wage increases come into force
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) across the UK increases from today (1st April), meaning thousands of employees in the beauty and hair sectors will see an increase in their take home pay.
The National Minimum Wage applies to those from school leaving age to age 22. The National Living Wage now applies to all workers aged 23 and over, with previous age of eligibility being 25. This will come down again to 21 by 2024.
The NLW and NMW increases from 1st April 2021 are as follows:
- National Living Wage (23+) has increased 2.2%, from £8.72 to £8.91
- National Minimum Wage (21-22) has increased 2%, from £8.20 to £8.36
- National Minimum Wage (18-20) has increased 1.7% from £6.45 to £6.56
- National Minimum Wage (under 18) has increased 1.5% from £4.55 to £4.62
- The Apprentice Rate has increased 3.6% from £4.15 to £4.30.
The new rates were recommended by independent body, the Low Pay Commission, following extensive consultation.
Employers should remember that it is a criminal offence to not pay someone the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, or to fake payment records. If HMRC investigate and finds that an employer has not been paying employees the correct wage, employers will be fined and named. Employers are responsible for keeping records to prove that they are paying the NLW or NMW.
What to do if you are not being paid the NLW or NMW
If you are concerned that you are not being paid the correct wage, the government advise that you should speak with your employer, and if the problem is not resolved, contact ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) on 0300 123 1100, or complain to HMRC.
You can also visit the Check Your Pay website and find out what to do if you believe you are being underpaid based upon the NLW or NMW.
