Martin Lewis has issued a reminder to all those on minimum wage to check if they’re eligible for hundreds of pounds of extra cash. It comes as the national minimum wage increases by almost £1 an hour today (Saturday, April 1).
Around 1.7million workers will receive a pay boost thanks to the increase. It means that an individual aged 23 and over will see their wages go up from £9.50 to £10.32 following the rise, MyLondon reports.
The rate increases apply to everyone, even if you’re not paid hourly. For example, if you are 23 or older and working 35 hours a week, your annual salary must be at least £17,290.
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The new rates will be applied to your first full pay cycle after April 1, according to the Money Saving Expert' website. It’s important to know that the national minimum wage isn't optional, and regardless of what your contract says, your employer has to pay you the right amount, otherwise they are breaking the law.
What do I do if I think I’m being underpaid?
Although your employer has to pay you the right amount by law, there are ways to make sure you're not being, or haven't been, underpaid. Before making a complaint to your employer, the first thing to do is to check what you should be getting paid.
Martin Lewis highlights the Government's national minimum wage calculator, or the ACAS helpline, which can provide general advice.
The next step to take is to make a complaint, by either speaking directly to your boss if you feel comfortable, or by asking HMRC to investigate. For the first option, Martin Lewis suggests to consider what outcome you're looking for before going into the conversation, and going into the discussion armed with information to support your case.
Another option if you don't feel comfortable approaching your employer, you can ask HMRC to investigate, which is as simple as filling out an online form. If HMRC then finds that your employer has not paid the correct minimum wage, it can make your employer pay back the amount they've underpaid, dating back six years, issue a fine against your employer, or take your employer to court if the payment is refused.
For more information on the national minimum wage, visit the Money Saving Expert website here.
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