US EditionPay rise for 2.7 million people as minimum wage increase comes into force
Workers aged 21 and over will get 4.1% more, while younger rates also rise as the government says 2.7 million people benefit.
- On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, the National Living Wage increase came into force, boosting pay for approximately 2.7 million workers across Britain with potential annual earnings gains exceeding £1,000.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves accepted recommendations from the Low Pay Commission to ensure low earners are "properly rewarded," fulfilling Labour's manifesto commitment to remove "discretionary age bands."
- Eligible employees aged 21 and over now receive at least £12.71 per hour, while 18-20-year-olds see a rise to £10.85 and under-18s and apprentices receive £8.
- Southampton-Based coffee shop operator Spencer Bowman warns that rising employment costs are squeezing firms, stating "We're running on a minimum number of staff on shift. We can't run on fewer people."
- Workers are urged to check payslips to ensure employers applied the new rates correctly; contacting ACAS—the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service—or HMRC provides dispute resolution guidance.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Minimum Wage 2026 Rises to £12.71 from April as Pay Boost Kicks In
Millions of workers across the United Kingdom are receiving a pay increase as the National Living Wage rises to £12.71 per hour from 1 April 2026. The rate applies to employees aged 21 and over and is up 4.1 per cent from £12.21, following recommendations from the Low Pay Commission accepted by the government. Updated minimum wage rates also apply to younger workers. Those aged 18 to 20 will receive £10.85 per hour, an increase of 8.5 per cent, …
The Herald Scotland
Millions of UK workers urged to check payslips from April 1 as wages rise
Millions of UK workers are getting a pay rise from April 1. Check the new minimum wage rates and make sure your employer is paying you correctly.
UK pay body sees potential 3.7% rise for minimum wage in 2027
Britain's minimum wage may need to rise by around 3.7% next year to 13.18 pounds ($17.38) an hour to keep up with the likely rise in average earnings, the public body which advises the government on the rate said on Wednesday.
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