UK National Minimum & Living Wage rates
Around 200,000 workers in Scotland are benefitting from the UK Government’s increases to the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage.
National Living Wage
The National Living Wage of £11.44 per hour applies to all workers aged 21 and over.
National Minimum Wage
If you are a worker aged under 21, or an apprentice, you are legally entitled to at least the National Minimum Wage.
Current Living and Minimum Wage Rates
These hourly wage rates are for the National Living Wage (for those aged 23 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of at least school leaving age).
| Date | 21 and over | 18 to 20 | Under 18 | Apprentice |
| Before April 2024 | £10.42 | £7.49 | £5.28 | £5.28 |
| From April 2024 | £11.44 | £8.60 | £6.40 | £6.40 |
Are you an apprentice?
Aged 16 to 18
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and in your first year
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and have completed your first year
You’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for your age.
Are you an employer?
Employers must pay workers the correct minimum wage.
You can read guidance on the minimum wage rates and who they apply to.
Is your employer paying you properly?
Think you might be underpaid? Register a complaint with HMRC or call the Acas helpline for confidential advice on 0300 123 1100.