NDIS Management Types Made Simple: Choosing Between Self, Plan, and Agency Management

You can manage your NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) plan in three different ways, from having complete control (and responsibility) of your plan to an entirely hands-off method.

The best plan management style for you will depend on factors including your ability to manage the NDIS plan, the help you have around you from your loved ones or informal carers, your lifestyle, and the time you have to dedicate to the extent of administrative support you require, etc.

The everyday dealings would include receiving and processing service provider invoices while being able to interpret the plan and ndis guidelines to stay compliant.

1. Self-Managed

Managing your NDIS plan independently grants you complete control over budgeting, fund usage, and the choice of service providers (whether NDIS registered or not). This method enables you to negotiate provider rates beyond the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, allowing you to extend your funds further or opt to pay higher rates to access preferred services or specific providers.

Nonetheless, if you decide to self-manage, you will be responsible for overseeing the process, which includes navigating the NDIS funding system and keeping precise records for potential audits.

Although flexibility and control attract numerous NDIS participants, self-management carries certain risks. It demands strong organisational skills and an understanding of the NDIS framework. Lacking those skills would lead to errors and unnecessary stress for participants. Additionally, computer literacy is crucial for handling records, billing, and reimbursements.

This may be challenging for some participants since you must serve as your advocate, NDIS expert, coordinator, bookkeeper, and accountant. If self-managed funding doesn't suit your needs and lifestyle, there are two options: Plan-Managed or Agency-Managed.

2. Plan Managed

 

Plan Management provides the ideal combination of benefits. The NDIS allocates extra funding for a Plan Manager of your choosing to assist with budget management and bill payments, so that you do not have to pay anything extra from your pocket to get the plan management service. You still can choose unregistered ndis service providers, but you must adhere to the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.

This method allows you to manage your finances and choose service providers, greatly minimising the administrative tasks linked to self-management. Your Plan Manager will pay invoices, help with financial reporting, and monitor the budget. This approach is ideal for those who would still like to have some flexibility in their plan but do not have the time or expertise to navigate the NDIS requirements and maintain essential record-keeping.

The ELS Disability Service team are experienced and offers expert plan management services, empowering participants living with disability nationwide. Our Plan Managers offer meticulous record keeping, payment of your providers’ invoices, reimbursement of expenses, and provide regular updates on spending and remaining budgets.  

3. Agency Managed

This occurs when the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) directly manages your plan. Commonly referred to as NDIA-managed funding, this type of plan management would mean that the agency handles payments to your service providers directly, eliminating any other costs or extra administrative duties for you. You can track the status of your funds using the MyPlace NDIS portal, which is accessible through your MyGov account.

Nevertheless, this option provides limited flexibility. You are confined to using solely NDIS registered providers.

Agency management is ideal for ndis participants looking for a hands-off approach, who do not need much flexibility, and prefer to use only registered providers. If you're thinking about this plan management method, contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIA planner for advice on how they can assist you.

Which plan management option is right for me? 

Your decision should be based on your specific circumstances and needs. When deciding, consider the flexibility you expect in your ndis plan in choosing service providers (registered and non-registered), the time you can commit to managing your plan and how much extra work you are prepared to undertake in exchange for greater control. Managing your plan is a greater responsibility and can become overwhelming without the proper guidance, support and expertise.

To recap:

• Self-Management offers the greatest degree of control but entails significant responsibilities, administrative duties, and a substantial time commitment. It requires independently coordinating and executing your plan.

• Plan Management provides maximum flexibility and control without the extra financial and administrative responsibilities. Choosing this path will save you time and mental effort. If you select this option, you will receive NDIS funding to hire a Plan Manager.

• Agency Management provides minimal flexibility and control because you can only select registered service providers for your support needs, and the NDIA oversees your funds directly. On the other hand, it reduces the individual's administrative responsibilities, as all billing and management are managed directly by the NDIS.

  
  

Interested in NDIS plan management? 

ELS Plan Managers specialise in expert plan management, assisting individuals living with disabilities in effectively managing their funding to achieve their NDIS goals. Through our quality and comprehensive plan management services, we ensure that you have the freedom to focus on what is truly important—accessing the support you require and reaching your goals.

Our knowledgeable and responsive team can help to navigate the complexities of the NDIS. See our knowledge section for additional resources on the NDIS and plan management.

If an NDIS Plan Manager sounds right for you and your needs, contact ELS for help maximising your NDIS funding.