Glossary · UK
What is National Living Wage (NLW)?
The UK's statutory minimum hourly rate for workers aged 21 and over.
Full Definition
The National Living Wage (NLW) is the legal minimum hourly rate that workers aged 21 and over must be paid in the UK (the age was reduced from 23 in April 2024). From 1 April 2025 the rate is £12.21 per hour. Separate (lower) National Minimum Wage rates apply to younger workers and apprentices: £10.00 for 18–20 year-olds, £7.55 for 16–17 year-olds and apprentices. Pay below these rates is illegal. HMRC investigates and can fine employers up to 200% of the underpayment.
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