National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates increase from 1 April 2021

Employers have to pay their workers, at the very least, the correct minimum wage rate. Currently, the National Minimum Wage is set at a rate of £4.15 per hour - £8.72 per hour, depending on age. The National Living Wage is payable at the rate of £8.72 per hour to those who are 25 and over, but this will be extended to those aged 23 and over from 1 April 2021.

From 1 April of this year, the National Minimum Wage hourly rates applicable to eligible workers in Northern Ireland are as follows:

• National Living Wage (23 years old and over): £8.91    
• National Minimum Wage adult rate (21-22 years old): £8.36    
• National Minimum Wage (18-20 years old): £6.56    
• National Minimum Wage (16-17 years old): £4.62    
• National Minimum Wage (apprentice rate): £4.30    
• Accommodation Offset: £8.36    

In the event that you feel you are not being paid the correct hourly rate, you may wish to raise the matter with you trade union who, hopefully, can assist you in resolving the matter.