After enrolling in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), it depends on the participant to choose their manager. They can allow plan managers to manage the entire plan, or do it themselves. To have more control over an NDIS plan, one can opt for NDIS plan management or self-management. This blog will take readers through a comprehensive understanding of both plans.
What Is NDIS Plan Management?
When one opts for NDIS plan management, they can hire a plan manager to manage their NDIS plan. Since the NDIS scheme is administered by the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency), the NDIA pays for the plan manager to look after the member’s support, settle invoices and file claims.
All NDIS members are free to choose a plan manager. An efficient plan manager will assist a member with updated technology and tools to keep them aware of their expenses.
On choosing plan management, one has the freedom to opt for registered or unregistered NDIS services. This helps them tap into more service options besides NDIA-registered ones. This acts as an economic advantage for members who opt for plan management.
Unlike self-managed NDIS, members do not have to organise or look after the invoices for these services. Two of the main roles of plan managers are to ensure the member is making the most out of their plan while managing their budget effectively.
What Is NDIS Self-Management?
Self-management is the other option of plan management for NDIS. Unlike the latter, NDIA does not assign a plan manager for this plan as the member is capable of doing it themselves. A person is free to opt for either registered or unregistered NDIA services as they feel fit. They also do not need to adhere to NDIS price limits.
On opting for self-management, you will not receive assistance from any plan manager. This means that you have to plan, audit and avail of the funding and budget expenses by yourself. Following are the responsibilities you must take for self-management:
- Pay service providers out of their pocket
- Maintain a separate bank account to receive NDIS funds
- File claims from the NDIS portal
- Maintain a record of invoices and receipts for 5 years
- Manage and plan the remaining budget and expenses
In addition, you cannot hire a plan manager to manage your finances with a self-management option. You can seek help from a planner or LAC to help you self-manage with various tools and options. They are as follows:
- Software application
- Accounting services and bookkeeping
- Support coordination hours
- Peer support organisation
- Employment services
How to Apply for the NDIS?
You can follow the steps below to apply to NDIS without much hassle.
Step 1: Call 1800 800 110 for a verbal application.
Step 2: A representative will ask questions about your identity and seek consent for the NDIS application.
Step 3: You can download the Access Request Form by calling them and requesting a mail with the form. You can also collect this form from the nearest NDI office, local area coordinator or early childhood partner.
Step 4: You need to submit documents as evidence of age, Australian citizenship and disability.
Step 5: Mail the form and evidence to NAT@ndis.gov.au or send them to the postal address.
By following the steps above, you can enrol yourself or a disabled family member for NDIS. After registering, it is a personal choice whether you choose NDIS plan management or self-management. Make this decision based on your state of disability and how much time you can spend on handling your plan.
