Key date

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.

National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage increase April 2026 · effective 1 April 2026

Employee Rights

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

Related guidance

Related updates

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