As we edge closer to the end of the current and beginning of the new financial year – there are certain regulatory changes coming into effect that could have an acutely detrimental effect on businesses without the right level of preparation in place.
One of the main factors to consider is the new National Minimum Wage which has been introduced and will be implemented as of 1st April 2020 when the new financial year begins.
For workers over the age of 25, there will be a 6.2% increase – rising from £8.21 to £8.72 per hour (£0.51) signaling the largest individual increase of the last 8 years. Across a full-time working year, an over-25 employee will see a pay rise of £930.
The increased rate of pay for 21 to 24-year olds has also risen, this time by 6.5% as the hourly amount will go from £7.70 to £8.20 per hour – meaning an extra £910 annually.
The lower rates of pay will be set as follows:
18 to 20-year olds will see their hourly rate increase from £6.15 to £6.45 per hour
Under 18-year olds (non-apprentice) will increase from £4.35 to £4.55 per hour
The apprentice wage – for those who apply under the criteria of being under the age of 19, or being aged 19 and over, but who are still in the first year of their apprenticeship will rise from £3.90 to £4.15 per hour.
The full breakdown of changes can be found below:
| Age range | April 2019 rate | April 2020 rate |
| 25 and over | £8.21 | £8.72 |
| 21 to 24 | £7.70 | £8.20 |
| 18 to 20 | £6.15 | £6.45 |
| Under 18 | £4.35 | £4.55 |
| Apprentice | £3.90 | £4.15 |
If you require any further information on the upcoming changes or the effects it can have on your business, get in touch with one of our payroll experts on 0141 370 0383 or email us at mail@qualitas-payroll.co.uk