Autumn Budget 2026: What we know about the National Minimum Wage for April 2027
With the Autumn Budget announced today (Wednesday 28th October) we now know what the new rates of pay will be for the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, come April 1st, 2027.
The Fair Work Agency will be enforcing National Minimum Wage from April 2027, taking over from HMRC, this means that employers will need to ensure that they are prepared or face the possibility of enforcement action, that could result in costly financial and reputational damage.
For more information on how the changes to the National Minimum Wage and other changes coming in April 2027 affects your business call Croner today on 0800 470 9999.
What are the changes to the National Minimum Wage coming in April?
The overall increase to the National Living Wage will be 3.9% or 49p, elsewhere the rate for 18–20-year-olds increases by 42p with the various pay bands changing to the following:
National Living Wage: Ages 21 and above will see an increase from £12.71 per hour to £13.21 per hour.
Ages 18-20: This band will see an increase from £10.85 per hour to £11.27 per hour.
Over school age (up to 17) and Apprentices: Wages will include an increase from £8.00 to £8.31.
What should employers be doing to ensure compliance?
On the approach to April, employers should work closely with their payroll department and ensure that the new rates of pay are incorporated into employee salaries. Be aware that the increased rates of pay will have an effect on payment for statutory leave, so it is highly advisable to review your current policies on these.
Get expert advice on NMW requirements for employers
Ensure that your up to date with the latest changes to National Minimum Wage rates of pay and avoid costly penalties at the hands of the Fair Work Agency. Talk to a Croner Employment Law expert today on 0800 470 9999.
