The Minimum Wage is an important piece of legislation, particularly for those interested in the minimum wage UK 2025. It protects employers from exploiting the competition for jobs to drive down the wages of their workers to a level below that which they can comfortably live on. And in the current cost-of-living crisis, it has never been more important.
It is also vital for employees to know what the appropriate wage is for their age and experience, so they can set reasonable expectations and ensure they are paid what they are legally entitled to.
So, whether you’re just starting out in the workforce or looking to make a change in your career, it is best to know about your UK minimum wage rights.
The UK minimum wage has seen regular updates over recent years. This guide will help you understand what you’re entitled to earn, so you can negotiate with confidence. To increase your negotiation skills and power, back yourself up by upskilling this year with Pitman Training courses to make more money in the coming years!
What is the Minimum Wage in the UK?
The minimum wage is the minimum amount of money (per hour) your employer is legally required to pay for your work. The government determines the rate, which varies depending on the employee’s age. It also depends on whether you are an apprentice or not.
Who is Entitled to Minimum Wage?
The National Minimum Wage applies to all working individuals in the UK. It varies according to the age of the worker and apprenticeship status. It includes casual workers, workers in training and off-shore workers.
There are, however, a few groups exempt from this minimum wage entitlement: including, self-employed workers, unpaid volunteers, company directors, family members living in their employer’s home, and workers younger than the school leaving age (usually 16).
Why Should You Know the Minimum Wage
Whatever stage you are on your career path, it’s important you know the minimum wage for your age, especially when you’re starting your career or switching jobs. There are various reasons why you should know the minimum wage in the UK:
Job Search
When looking for a new job, knowing the minimum wage will help you set realistic expectations. You can avoid applying for jobs that do not pay enough to meet your needs.
Negotiation
When negotiating your pay, knowing the benchmark for what is considered a fair amount will be helpful, both in setting realistic expectations and ensuring you are not being short-changed.
Budget
When you are working at a job with minimum wage, your financial situation can be challenging. Knowing the minimum wage before getting a job will help you to make plans and create a budget for what you can (and can’t) afford.
National Living Wage vs Minimum Wage in the UK
The National Living Wage is focused on working individuals above the age of 23 and not in the first year of their apprenticeship. Meanwhile, the National Minimum Wage applies to every individual under 25 years of age working in the UK.
The National Living Wage is slightly more than the National Minimum Wage since it is formulated with older workers in mind. The national living wage is updated every April. As of our last update in January 2025, you’ll want to check GOV.UK for the current rate, which continues supporting workers across the country.
What are the Current Minimum Wage Rates?
Minimum wage rates are updated annually from 1st April. All businesses must follow these legal requirements, except for self-employed individuals, volunteer workers, and family members living with their employers. The rates vary by age group:
| Age | National Minimum Wage 2025* |
|---|---|
| 21-22 | £12.21 per hour (National Living Wage for 21+) |
| 18-20 | £10.00 per hour (National Minimum Wage) |
| 16-17 | £7.55 per hour (Youth Rate / Apprentice Rate) |
*As of January 2025. For current rates, check GOV.UK
What is the Current Apprentice Rate?
In addition to the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage, there is an apprentice rate in the UK.
The UK apprentice rate applies to working individuals under the age of 19 or in their first year of apprenticeship. For instance, an apprentice of 20 years but in their first year of the apprenticeship will get the apprentice rate as opposed to the minimum wage.
The apprentice rate is updated annually from 1st April and applies to workers under 19 or those in their first year of apprenticeship. Check GOV.UK for the current rate, which continues to see regular increases.
How Wages Continue to Evolve
Wages are regularly adjusted to support living standards as the cost of living impacts households nationwide. These changes follow recommendations from the Low Pay Commission, ensuring pay keeps pace with economic realities.
| Age | National Minimum Wage 2024 UK | National Minimum Wage 2025 UK* | Increased By |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21- 22 | £10.18 | £12.21 | 19.97% |
| 18- 20 | £7.49 | £10.00 | 33.38% |
| 16- 17 | £5.28 | £7.55 | 42.80% |
*As of January 2025. For current rates, check GOV.UK
How You Can Increase Your Salary
Remember these are the minimum wages. This is the least you can get paid, but why restrict yourself to the least? One of the privileges of living in the developed world is that we are restricted only by our ambition and the limits we set for ourselves. Training can help you increase your skill set and with it, your earning potential- whether that be in developing your current career path or even exploring a new one.
Pitman Training offers a wide range of courses to help you improve your existing skills or train for a new career. With our programs, you can upskill in less than a year and increase your earning potential. There is a range of funding options, including monthly payments with 0% finance.
”It was so easy to fit in the work, life, study balance by being able to complete the course at the same time that was convenient to my own schedule. 10/10 for Pitman Training!” – Sarah Boland, graduate. So, now you know what minimum wage is, why settle for it? Contact us now to book an appointment with Pitman Training- say goodbye to settling and ‘minimum’; say hello to finally getting paid what you are worth.
