The impending increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW), coming in April 2024 presents a challenge for payroll departments in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).  

With rates set to rise significantly, these departments must prepare and adapt efficiently to the announced changes in the 2023 Autumn Statement.  

This guide aims to assist payroll professionals in navigating these changes, with a focus on strategic planning and effective communication. 

What were the wage changes? 

For those who missed the Autumn Statement, the NLW and NMW changes were significant in that they were both around a 10 per cent increase in the current wages.  

The NLW will increase from £10.42 per hour, to £11.44 per hour.  

From April 2024, people aged 21 to 22 will now be entitled to the NLW, whereas before they were entitled only to the NMW.  

The NMW will also increase across all categories: 

• Apprentice and NMW under 18 from £5.28 (in 2023/24), to £6.40 (in 2024/25).
• NMW 18 to 20 from £7.49 (in 2023/24), to £8.60 (in 2024/25).

Updating payroll systems and budget forecasting 

The first step in adapting to the new wage rates involves updating your payroll systems.  

It’s essential to ensure that your payroll software accurately reflects the increased rates from April 2024.  

This might require coordinating with software providers to confirm that the system is both compliant and capable of adapting to these changes seamlessly. 

Alongside system updates, conducting a comprehensive budget analysis is vital.  

Payroll departments should calculate the additional costs incurred due to the wage increase for each employee and evaluate the overall financial impact on the business.  

This analysis will be instrumental in guiding budget allocations and financial planning for the upcoming fiscal year. 

A qualified accountant can help you and your team with this.  

Effective communication and employee engagement 

Payroll departments should provide detailed reports to the management team, outlining the financial implications of the wage increases.  

This information will aid in strategic decision-making and operational adjustments within the company. 

Equally important is the communication with employees.  

Transparency regarding pay changes not only helps in maintaining trust but also in managing expectations.  

It’s crucial for employees to understand how their pay is calculated and how these changes will affect their earnings.  

This open dialogue can contribute to a positive work environment and employee satisfaction. 

Our thoughts 

As an employer, we welcome the changes for the benefits they will provide to the lowest paid in our society.  

However, the increase in the NMW and NLW rates is more than a payroll update – it’s a strategic business change that requires careful planning, efficient system updates, and clear communication.  

By taking proactive steps in adapting payroll systems, conducting thorough budget analyses, and maintaining open lines of communication, payroll departments within SMEs can effectively manage these changes.  

This not only ensures compliance but also positions the business for a smoother transition during this period of financial adjustment. 

For advice on your payroll responsibilities, please get in touch with our team.