# UK minimum wage explained: how much is it and who qualifies?

BBC Business explains the current level of the UK's minimum wage, including the different rates that apply by age group and for apprentices. The figures matter because they set the legal pay floor for millions of low-paid workers and are updated each year in line with government recommendations.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Business
- [BBC Business](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy7e8mpdxpro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:01:11 GMT