It’s against the law to pay below the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage or to falsify pay records.
Investigation by HMRC
Anyone can report an employer to HMRC (HM Revenue & Customs) for not paying the minimum wage. The initial report can be anonymous.
If HMRC finds that an employer has not paid at least the minimum wage, they can send a notice of arrears plus issue a penalty for not paying the correct rate of pay.
HMRC can also take employers to civil court for not paying the Minimum Wage or National Living Wage. The maximum fine for non-payment is £20,000 per worker. Employers who fail to pay can be named publicly and banned from being a company director for up to 15 years.
Taken to tribunal or court
Employers can be taken to an employment tribunal or civil court if an employee or worker feels they have:
- not been receiving the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage
- been dismissed or experienced unfair treatment (‘detriment’) because of their right to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage
- been discriminated against because their age means they are entitled to a higher minimum wage rate
This article is adapted from the ACAS website
Need help deciding what to pay your employees? Contact Beagle HR for advice
