After National Minimum Wage crackdown 200,000 employees to receive backpay
14 May 2018
New figures show HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has more than doubled the number of underpaid workers getting the money they’re owed after enforcing the National Minimum Wage (NMW).
In January 2017 HMRC launched its online complaints service and last year more than 98,000 workers complained to HMRC and received £10.9 million in backpay. In 2018 the number of complaints received has increased by almost 50%, with HMRC investigations resulting in more than 200,000 employees receiving a total of £15.6 million in backpay.
HMRC's latest figures are published as the government has launched its online annual advertising campaign designed to encourage workers to act if they are not receiving the National Living Wage(NLW) or the National Minimum Wage. The campaign, which runs over the summer, is a quick and easy way for anyone with concerns about not being paid the NMW or NLW to report an employer or former employer anonymously by completing an HMRC online form.
Business Minister Andrew Griffiths reported “Employers abusing the system and paying under the legal minimum are breaking the law. Short changing workers is a red line for this government and employers who cross the line will be identified by HMRC and forced to pay back every penny, and could be hit with fines of up to 200% of wages owed.
“I would urge all workers, if you think you might be being underpaid then you should check your pay and call Acas on 0300 123 1100 for free and confidential advice.”
GOV.UK has issued a full press release.