The National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) are the legal minimum wage rates that must be paid to employees. Employers are liable to be penalised for not complying with the NMW and NLW rules. There are different levels of NMW and NLW, depending on age and whether the employee is an apprentice. The rates are due to increase from 1 April 2019 as shown in the following table: From 1 April 2018 (£) From 1 April 2019 (£) NLW for workers aged 25 and over 7.83 8.21 NMW main rate for workers aged 21-24 7.38 7.70 NMW 18-20 rate 5.90 6.15 NMW 16-17 rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18 4.20 4.35 NMW apprentice rate * 3.70 3.90 *for apprentices under 19 or 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship There are no exemptions from paying the NMW on the grounds of the size of the business. If you would like help with payroll matters please get in touch. Internet link: GOV.UK NMW