The new National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) rates came into effect on 1 April 2019. The NLW first came into effect on 1 April 2016 and is the minimum hourly rate that must be paid to those aged 25 or over. The new rate for the NLW is £8.21 which is a 38p or almost 5% increase over the previous year.
The hourly rate of the NMW (for 21-24 year olds) increased to £7.70 (a rise of 32p). The rates for 18-20 year olds increased to £6.15 (a rise of 25p), and the rate for workers above the school leaving age but under 18 increased to £4.35 (a rise of 15p). The NMW rate for apprentices increased by 20p to £3.90.
Penalties may be levied if you get this wrong
It is important that you ensure that you have adopted the new rates as there are significant penalties for employers who are found to have paid workers less that 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 and employers who fail to pay face a possible 15-year ban from being a company director as well as being publicly named and shamed.
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