Age rate guide
National Minimum Wage for 18 to 20 year olds
Workers aged 18 to 20 move onto a legal minimum of £10.85 an hour from 1 April 2026, with the next age-band step usually arriving at 21.
£10.85/hr
Effective from 1 April 2026
Who this rate applies to
This rate applies to most workers who are at least 18 but not yet 21, unless the apprentice rate still applies under the apprenticeship rules.
Key checks
- If you are about to turn 21, your employer must move you to the higher band from the first pay reference period that starts on or after that birthday.
- Apprentices aged 19+ can remain on the apprentice rate if they are still in the first year of their apprenticeship.
- Monthly underpayment can grow quickly if your rota is long and you are even a small amount below the legal floor.
Questions
How much is the jump at 21 under the April 2026 rates?
The difference between the 18 to 20 rate and the 21 and over rate is £1.86 per hour under the April 2026 structure.
Do apprentices aged 19 or 20 always get £10.85?
No. If they are still in the first year of their apprenticeship, the apprentice rate can continue to apply until year one ends.