Hey there! If you’re puzzling over how to manage your NDIS plan, you’re not alone. Think of it as deciding who’s going to be your co-pilot on a road trip through the NDIS landscape. Whether you want to take the wheel yourself, have someone else navigate, or find a happy medium, let's explore your options so you can cruise through with confidence!
1. Self-Managed: You’re the Boss!
Are you the type who loves full control? If yes, self-managing your NDIS plan might just be your jam. You get the flexibility to choose from a broader range of providers—not just the ones registered with NDIS—and direct control over how your funds are spent.
Benefits:
- Flexibility: Hire anyone from a wider pool, NDIS-registered or not.
- Control: Decide how and when to use your funds directly.
Drawbacks:
- Paperwork: Get ready to juggle receipts, invoices, and all the admin.
- Time: It’s on you to manage finances and coordinate services.
Perfect For: Those who have a knack for budgeting and don’t mind the extra admin. Remember, no capes required, but being good with paperwork is a plus!
2. Plan-Managed: Your Personal Financial Co-Pilot
Not too keen on handling all that paperwork? No problem! A plan manager can take care of the financial side of things, leaving you more time to focus on what truly matters—like enjoying a coffee or watching your favourite series. They handle the payments, manage your budget, and work with both NDIS-registered and non-registered providers.
Benefits:
- Less Hassle: Say goodbye to the day-to-day accounting.
- Flexibility: You still get to choose from a wide range of providers.
- Funding: Funding for plan management is provided on top of your existing NDIS funds, ensuring you get comprehensive support without affecting your other services.
- Special Consideration: A good plan manager works with you to maximise your NDIS budget.
Drawbacks:
- Less Direct Control: Your plan manager will handle the finances.
- Dependence: You’ll rely on someone else to ensure funds are managed correctly.
Ideal for: Anyone who likes the idea of less paperwork but still wants the flexibility in choosing providers. It’s like having a financial buddy! Plan management is a popular choice because every participant is eligible for this service, making it accessible for anyone looking for professional assistance with managing their NDIS plan.
3. Agency-Managed: Set It and Forget It
Prefer to keep things super simple? Let the NDIA manage your funds. You won’t have to worry about the paperwork, but you’ll be limited to using NDIS-registered providers only.
Benefits:
- No Admin: Zero paperwork for you.
- Compliance: Ensures your funds are used properly according to NDIS rules.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Choices: Only NDIS-registered providers are at your service.
- Less Control: The NDIA handles all the payments directly.
Great For: Those who’d rather not deal with financial management at all. If simplicity is your thing, this might be the way to go!
Which Road to Take?
Reflect on your personal needs and comfort with financial management. Talk to your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator to weigh these options against your lifestyle and goals. Whatever route you choose, make sure it’s one that gives you peace of mind and aligns with how involved you want to be in managing your plan.
Thinking About Plan Management?
If managing paperwork isn’t your cup of tea, but you crave the flexibility of choice, plan management might just be your sweet spot. And if you’re leaning that way, why not consider a team that not only understands the NDIS landscape but has walked the walk? At Kindship, our plan managers have real lived experience and a passion for the community. We use an intuitive app to make navigation a breeze and keep the heart in everything we do. Plus, remember that the funding for plan management services is provided in addition to your regular NDIS funds, so you can get this extra support without dipping into the resources allocated for other services. So, if you’re looking for a plan manager who truly gets it, we’re here to chat!
Still unsure? No stress, it's a big decision. One that we have a whole module catered to in our 'No More Rubbish Plans' FREE course. Feel free to sign up here.
