How far in advance can you apply for Tax Free Childcare in the UK?

I've had a good old Google trying to find the answer to this question as I like to have things planned in advance. We're currently trying to finalise our childcare arrangements for when I return to work, and I know the UK Government helpfully gives you up to £500 every three months towards childcare if you pay into their system and then use it to pay registered child care providers.

But in all the bumpf, I couldn't find the answer to the question, how far in advance can you apply for Tax Free Childcare.

So I gave it a go in Tom's name today. Here's the answer I got:

You're not eligible if your partner is on maternity or paternity leave for all the children you're applying for, unless your partner is due to start back at work within the next 31 days.

So there you have it. You can't apply for Tax Free Childcare until 31 days before the date you or your partner are due to start back after maternity, paternity, shared parental or adoption leave.

Hope that helps someone else out there!

Alex