Tax free childcare- when can I open an account?

[IndiaHi]

I'm a sahm and will be starting work in September. I'll be putting DD in nursery whilst I go to work.

The nursery bill is paid monthly in advance. So childcare costs for September will need to be paid by the end of August.

When can I open a tax free childcare account? Do I need to be in work at the time? Will I not get help with my first bill?

Tia

I think it has to be within 30 days of starting work.
You could try and apply though. It's not a long application and it will tell you if it's too early.

Ok thanks I'll try it a couple of weeks before I start work. I've heard it can take a while to for the childcare provider to get paid via the account.