The rate for workers aged 21 and above is set to rise from its current level of £6.31 per hour to £6.50 on October 1st , with severe potential penalties for those employers which fail to comply.
The wage rate depends on a worker’s age (£5.13 for those aged 18-20 and £3.79 for 16-17 year olds) and apprentices aged 16-18 will have a minimum wage of £2.73.
The provision of accommodation, uniform hire and on-the-job travel times can also affect the level that should be paid.
The Government has stepped up action against employers who flout the rules of late. Those guilty of not paying their workers correctly could face a fine of £20,000 and being named and shamed, or even being prosecuted.
Tips to help ensure you are paying the correct amount of National Minimum Wage:
- Check what rates you should be paying to each worker as there are different rates for different types of workers. Visit www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage for more information.
- Have a conversation with your worker to ensure you have the correct details (e.g. check their birthdays, and whether they are an apprentice).
- Keep a record of the number of hours worked by each worker, such as a timesheet
system, to make sure you are paying them for the correct number of hours per week/ month.
- Keep your payroll updated for each worker to ensure you are paying the correct amount.
Click here to read original article 'Don't forget to prepare for the forthcoming minimum wage hike'
