Minimum Wage

Employers are required by law to pay at least the minimum wage set by the government for their employees’ age and employment status. Here’s a detailed look at the legal requirements and what to do if you’re paid less than the minimum wage:

Minimum Wage Laws by Country

United Kingdom

In the UK, the minimum wage rates are set by the government and vary depending on the age of the worker and whether they are an apprentice. As of April 2024, the National Minimum Wage rates are:

Apprentice: £5.28 per hour
Under 18: £5.28 per hour
18 to 20: £7.49 per hour
21 to 22: £10.18 per hour
23 and over (National Living Wage): £11.01 per hour

For a 19-year-old, the applicable rate is £7.49 per hour. Paying less than this amount is illegal.

United States

In the US, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. However, states and cities can set higher minimum wages. For instance:

California: $15.50 per hour (as of January 2024)
New York: $15.00 per hour (for NYC, Long Island, and Westchester County)

For a 19-year-old worker in the US, the applicable minimum wage depends on the state and locality.

What to Do If You’re Paid Less Than Minimum Wage

Document Your Earnings:
- Keep a record of your hours worked and the wages paid. This documentation will be crucial if you need to prove that you are being underpaid.
Discuss with Employer:
- Initially, try to resolve the issue by speaking with your employer. There might be a misunderstanding or an error in payroll that can be corrected.
Seek Advice:
- Contact your local labor rights organization or a legal advisor to understand your rights and the best course of action. In the UK, you can contact Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) for free and confidential advice.
File a Complaint:
- If your employer refuses to pay the correct wage, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities:
  - In the UK, contact HMRC or Acas.
  - In the US, you can file a complaint with the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor.
Legal Action:
- If necessary, you can take legal action against your employer. This may involve going to an employment tribunal in the UK or a similar body in other countries.

Consequences for Employers

Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage can face significant penalties, including:

Fines: Employers can be fined for not complying with minimum wage laws.
Back Pay: Employers may be required to pay back wages to employees who were underpaid.
Legal Action: Employees can take legal action, which can result in additional costs and damage to the employer’s reputation.

Conclusion

It is illegal for employers to pay a 19-year-old less than the minimum wage set by law. If you find yourself in this situation, document your earnings, attempt to resolve the issue with your employer, seek advice from labor rights organizations, and file a complaint if necessary. Legal protections are in place to ensure that all workers receive fair pay for their labor.

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