Minimum wage rates for 2026
Earlier today, Government confirmed the minimum wage rates from April 2026, accepting in full recommendations made by the Low Pay Commission (LPC) – follow this link to read LPC’s recommendations in full and press release here.
The rates announced by the Government are set out below:
|
|
NMW rate from April 2026 |
Increase (£) |
Increase (%) |
|
National Living Wage (21 and over) |
£12.71 |
50p |
4.1 |
|
18-20 Year Old Rate |
£10.85 |
85p |
8.5 |
|
16-17 Year Old Rate |
£8.00 |
45p |
6.0 |
|
Apprentice Rate |
£8.00 |
45p |
6.0 |
|
Accommodation Offset |
£11.10 |
44p |
4.1 |
These are consistent with LPC’s latest central estimate published in August (more info here), and in line with BRC’s written submission and oral evidence session, where we highlighted the cost pressures facing the sector and urged the LPC to take a balanced approach that supports both workers and business sustainability. Follow this link to read a summary of BRC’s written submission. The higher increases for under 21s, when coupled with concerns of retailers about the implications of some provisions in the Employment Rights Bill, could have an unintended negative impact on the employment prospects of younger people.
