A reminder that the current National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates came into effect on 1 April 2019. The NLW is the minimum hourly rate that must be paid to those aged 25 or over. The current rate for the NLW is £8.21.
The hourly rate of the NMW (for 21-24 year olds) is £7.70. The rates for 18-20 year olds are £6.15 and the rate for workers above the school leaving age but under 18 is £4.35. Finally. the NMW rate for apprentices is £3.90. The rates are updated every April.
It is important that you ensure that you have used these rates since April 2019 as there are significant penalties for employers who are found to have paid workers less than they are entitled to by law. If you have underpaid an employee, you must pay any arrears immediately. There are penalties for non-payment of up to 200% of the amount owed, unless the arrears are paid within 14 days. The maximum fine for non-payment can be up to £20,000 per employee.