National Minimum Wage increases from 1st October 2010

The national minimum wage rates will increase for pay reference periods starting on or after 1st October 2010 onwards.

Main rate for workers 21 years old and above £5.93 per hour
Rate for workers aged 18-20 years inclusive £4.92 per hour
Rate for workers under 18 years and above
compulsory school age £3.64 per hour

A new apprentice rate of £2.50 per hour will be introduced for pay reference periods starting on or after 1st October 2010. This will apply to apprentices who are workers and

• Aged under 19
• Aged 19 and over and in first year of their apprenticeship.

Until October 2010, 21 year olds remain in the 18-21 year old rate band.