Worker guide
What to do if you may be paid below minimum wage
If your effective hourly pay looks too low, the next step is to collect the facts for the pay reference period before you challenge the result.
Check the period, not just the headline rate
A payslip hourly rate can look legal while the minimum wage calculation still fails. The check depends on the pay reference period, hours worked, age band, apprenticeship status, accommodation, and job-related deductions or payments.
Start by matching your payslip to the period you are checking. Then list your hours, gross pay, uniform or equipment costs, and any accommodation charge connected to the job.
Evidence to keep
- Payslips for the affected pay periods
- Rota, timesheet, clock-in, or app records showing hours worked
- Receipts for required clothing, tools, or equipment
- Messages or contract terms about accommodation or deductions
- Your date of birth and apprenticeship start date, if relevant
Use the calculator before raising it
Run the numbers once with only gross pay and hours, then again with any accommodation or uniform costs. This helps separate a simple rate issue from a deduction or pay reference period issue.