April 2026 employment rate changes: what you need to know
Key employment rate changes taking effect in April 2026, including National Minimum Wage, Statutory Sick Pay, and pension thresholds.
What is changing
Several employment rates change each April at the start of the new tax year. Employers must update their payroll systems before 6 April 2026 to comply with the new rates.
- National Living Wage (21+)
- See current rates guidance
- Effective date
- 6 April 2026
Action required
Update your payroll software before 6 April 2026. Check that all employee pay rates meet the new minimums for their age band.
National Minimum Wage rates
Full breakdown of all NMW and NLW rates by age band.
Read the full guide →Run payroll (RTI)
Step-by-step guide to payroll compliance.
Read the full guide →