HMRC tells workers to ‘check this week’ for unclaimed £2,212

The taxman has issued a warning to workers to check this week whether they are entitled to more than £2,000 of unclaimed cash.

HMRC has issued a call to young workers, encouraging them to verify this week if they are eligible for over £2,000 of unclaimed funds. As part of National Apprenticeship Week (February 10 to 16, 2025), HM Revenue and Customs is offering key pay and tax advice to apprentices, while also reminding them about a potentially overlooked fund that could provide an immediate financial boost.

Marc Gill, HMRC’s director of individuals and small business compliance, said: “We want to make sure that all workers are paid correctly for the hours they work. And we are reminding employers to follow their legal obligations to pay at least the National Minimum Wage when hiring an apprentice.”

HMRC advises workers to check four things

National Minimum Wage
Apprentices should ensure they are receiving the correct National Minimum Wage (NMW) based on their age and year of apprenticeship. Workers have a legal right to at least the NMW depending on their age and what year of their apprenticeship they are in:
- 16 to 18 years old and in an apprenticeship: £6.40 per hour
- 19 and over, first-year apprentice: £6.40 per hour
- 19 years old and over, who have completed the first year of an apprenticeship: Entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for their age.
Rates change on April 1 each year. Search ‘National Minimum Wage rates’ on GOV.UK and click on HMRC’s NMW apprentice video for more information.
National Insurance number
HMRC issues National Insurance (NI) numbers to youngsters prior to their 16th birthday. It’s crucial for employees to provide their NI number to their employer to ensure accurate recording of contributions and tax, as well as to gain access to pensions and benefits.
Those without an NI number can apply for one on the GOV.UK website.
Child Trust Fund
Child Trust Funds (CTF) are tax-exempt savings accounts for children born between September 1, 2002, and January 2, 2011, with an average value of £2,212.
Upon turning 18, young adults can withdraw any savings from their account. More information can be found on the GOV.UK website under ‘find a Child Trust Fund’.
HMRC app
HMRC offers an app to check services available, including the ability to track pay and ensure it’s correct. Download it today to check the services available.

Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel

Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions: