Thousands of UK workers could be missing out on money owed to them, and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging them to check their pay. Many workers may not be receiving the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage due to unpaid working hours, deductions, or errors in their pay. Additionally, young people born between 2002 and 2011 may have unclaimed savings from a Child Trust Fund worth an average of £2,212.
Check Your Pay for Unpaid Wages
HMRC is reminding workers to review their hourly pay, especially those in retail, hospitality, and other hourly-based jobs. Many employees unknowingly work unpaid hours, such as:
- Opening or closing a shop
- Attending mandatory training sessions
- Working extra shifts or staying late
- Paying for uniforms or work tools (which may reduce take-home pay)
If these deductions lower a worker’s hourly rate below the minimum wage, they are entitled to claim back their missing pay. In the 2022–2023 tax year alone, HMRC recovered £13.7 million in unpaid wages for over 108,000 underpaid workers in the UK.
Young Workers: Check for Unclaimed Child Trust Fund Money
Young adults born between September 1, 2002, and January 2, 2011, might have money waiting for them in a Child Trust Fund (CTF). These are tax-free savings accounts set up by the government, with an average balance of £2,212.
Once a person turns 18, they can access these funds. To check for unclaimed savings, visit GOV.UK and search for ‘Find a Child Trust Fund.’
How to Report Underpayment of Wages
Workers who believe they are not receiving the correct wages can report it to HMRC online at GOV.UK. Reporting takes just 10 minutes and can even be done after leaving a job.
For those who need assistance, free and confidential advice is available through the Acas Pay and Work Rights helpline at 0300 123 1100 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM). In Northern Ireland, workers can contact the Labour Relations Agency.
Many UK workers may be owed money without even realizing it. Whether it’s missing wages due to unpaid working hours or an unclaimed Child Trust Fund, checking your finances could result in a significant payout. With HMRC recovering millions each year, now is the time to ensure you’re getting what you’re entitled to. Take a few minutes to check your pay and savings—it could be worth thousands of pounds!
