UK Minimum Wage Calculator 2026–2027
Check if you are being paid the legal minimum wage and see the current National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage rates.
UK Minimum Wage Rates — April 2026
| Category | Age / Type | Per Hour | Annual (37.5hr) | Annual (40hr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Living Wage | 21 and over | £12.60 | £24,570 | £26,208 |
| National Minimum Wage | 18–20 | £10.00 | £19,500 | £20,800 |
| National Minimum Wage | Under 18 | £7.55 | £14,723 | £15,704 |
| Apprentice Rate | Apprentice (under 19, or 19+ in first year) | £7.55 | £14,723 | £15,704 |
Am I Being Paid the Legal Minimum?
✗ You may be underpaid
Applicable rate: National Living Wage (21 and over): £12.60/hr — you are being paid £0.60/hr below the legal minimum.
Estimated shortfall
Annual underpayment: £1,170 based on 37.5 hours/week.
Report to HMRC: gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs or call Acas on 0300 123 1100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Living Wage for 2026–2027?
The National Living Wage (for workers aged 21 and over) is £12.60 per hour from April 2026. This is the legal minimum — employers cannot pay less.
What is the difference between the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage?
The National Living Wage (NLW) applies to workers aged 21+. The National Minimum Wage (NMW) applies to workers under 21 and apprentices, at lower rates. The NLW was introduced in 2016 and has replaced the adult NMW for over-21s.
What should I do if my employer is paying below minimum wage?
You can report your employer to HMRC, who enforces minimum wage law. Contact the Acas helpline (0300 123 1100) or report online at gov.uk/complain-about-pay. There is no fee and HMRC can order back-pay and issue fines.
Do tips count towards minimum wage?
No. Since October 2024, tips and service charges cannot be used to top up wages to meet the National Minimum Wage. Your basic pay alone must meet or exceed the minimum wage rate.