Who is entitled to minimum pay?

Nearly all workers aged 16 years and over, including part-time workers, fixed-term workers, agency workers, casuals and homeworkers, are entitled to the National Minimum Wage. Amongst those to whom it does not apply are:

• members of the armed forces
• family members working in the family business
• people working and living as part of a family
• volunteers and, controversially, most types of interns.

Currently different rates apply for younger workers. 16 and 17 year olds get a lower rate (£3.68) than 18 to 20 year olds (£4.98) who, in turn, get a lower rate than those aged 21 or over (£6.08).

There is also another rate for apprentices who are aged under 19, or are in the first year of their apprenticeship (£2.60).

Check whether you're entitled to the National Minimum Wage and find more information on how much you can expect with our minimum wage calculator.