How to easily understand managing your NDIS funding package

July 26, 2021

There are several options when it comes to managing your NDIS funding package, so picking the one that is right for you can be confusing at first. If you’re like many new NDIS participants, you may have chosen to be agency-managed (NDIS-managed) or self-managed. If you’re finding your current plan management option is no longer working for you, then it’s important to know you can make a change and it doesn’t have to be difficult. 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to switch to another option and there’s no shame in making the transition. Everyone is eligible for plan management – all you need to do is request it at your planning meeting or plan review. 

Making the transition from agency or self-managed to plan-managed can be smooth and easy if you follow our simple tips! 

Understanding your options for NDIS financial plan management 

The four options for managing your NDIS funding package are: 

• Self-managed – You can choose to take care of all the administration yourself, including managing your funding, paying for supports and service providers, keeping records for auditing purposing and budgeting to ensure your funds lasts until your next plan.

• Agency-managed (also known as NDIA-managed) – The NDIA manages your NDIS funding and bookkeeping for you. Your providers will be able make a claim for their fee directly from the NDIA, so you won’t need to pay for anything or keep records yourself.

• Plan-managed – You have complete choice and control over the registered plan management agency NDIS that you decide to work with! Their job is to handle all of the difficult administration of your plan funds including paying suppliers, budgeting to ensure you maximise your funding and providing recommendations based on your funds and goals. A plan manager is independent from the NDIS and therefore will always have your best interests at heart.

• Mixed (a combination) – You can also choose to combine any two of the above methods – for example, you may choose to have one component of the budget managed by a Plan Manager, but self-manage the rest until you feel confident enough to do it on your own (if that is your preference).  

Read more about the options in our blog. 

Why switch from your current choice? 

There are many reasons why you might want to change from your current plan management option. If you are currently self-managing your plan, then you might find this option is too time consuming, overwhelming, confusing or stressful. Or, if you’re currently NDIA managed, you may be frustrated by limitations such as not being restricted to registered providers. 

You may also be looking to change to plan management if you are receiving another type of support, such as Supported Independent Living NDIS, and you are looking for more support.

Managing your NDIS funding package through an NDIS plan manager can be a good solution to many of these common concerns. A Plan Manager’s role is not only to take care of your invoices and manage your budgets, but to also help guide you through the NDIS and provide you with recommendations on how to best utilise your plan funds. 

A good Plan Manager will also be able to see areas within your plan that need additional funding and help you apply for the appropriate amount of support. 

Learn more about what to look for when choosing a plan manager in our blog. 

Tips to help you make the switch 

There are two main ways to switch your NDIS financial plan management option.

1. At your next NDIS plan review meeting

You can request to change from your current plan management option at your upcoming NDIS plan review meeting. Although everyone is eligible for plan management, you may still be asked why you want to make the change. Be clear about why you want to make the change so that you can ensure your request is processed and approved quickly. Some of the common reasons for making the switch is to access unregistered providers or for more assistance with management your budget.

1. Make a special request 

If you want to make the switch tnow, before your regular scheduled plan review, you will need to contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 and request to switch. You will be asked about your reason for the request. You will be contacted by your Local Area Coordinator once your request is approved. 

If you would like some help preparing for your NDIS plan review meeting and some assistance in making contact with the NDIS, get in touch with our friendly team at Disability Plan Services. 

Our team are experienced Plan Managers and Support Coordinators that have first-hand experience with disability. Our team is hand-picked for their passion and values, so you know your plan will be in good hands.

If you would like to discuss making the switch or choosing Disability Plan Services as your chosen plan management provider, contact us by calling 1800 312 870 or email info@disabilityplanservices.com.au.