Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be a confusing and overwhelming process, especially when it comes to funding management. There are three types of funding management under the NDIS: self-management, plan-management, and NDIA management. In this blog, we'll explore the differences between these three options to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Self-Management
Self-management is an option for NDIS participants who want to have more control over how their funds are spent. With self-management, the participant takes on the responsibility of managing their NDIS funding, including making decisions about what services to use and which providers to work with.
Self-management gives participants the flexibility to choose their own support workers and service providers, and to negotiate their own rates. When you are self-managed, you must pay your provider directly yourself, and then claim this back from the NDIS by submitting your receipt.
While self-management requires more administrative work, it can be a good option for those who want to be more involved in their own care and have a good understanding of how the NDIS works.
Plan-Management
Plan-management is an option for NDIS participants who want more control over their funding but don't want to take on the full responsibility of self-management. With plan-management, the participant chooses a registered plan manager to manage their NDIS funding on their behalf.
The plan manager is responsible for paying invoices and managing the participant's budget, but the participant still has control over which services and providers they use. The plan manager also provides the participant with regular updates on their budget and spending.
Plan-management can be a good option for those who want more control over their funding but don't have the time or knowledge to manage it themselves.
NDIA Management
NDIA management is the default option for NDIS participants who do not choose self-management or plan-management. With NDIA management, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) manages the participant's funding and pays service providers directly.
While NDIA management requires less administrative work from the participant, it can be less flexible than self-management or plan-management. Participants have less control over which providers they use and may have to wait longer to receive services.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing the right funding management option depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you want more control over your funding and have the time and knowledge to manage it yourself, self-management may be a good option. If you want more control but don't have the time or knowledge, plan-management may be a good option. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, NDIA management may be the best choice, however you will only be able to work with NDIS registered providers.
It's important to remember that you can change your funding management option at any time. If you choose self-management or plan-management and find that it's not working for you, you can switch to NDIA management. Similarly, if you choose NDIA management and decide that you want more control over your funding, you can switch to self-management or plan-management.
Understanding the differences between self-management, plan-management, and NDIA management can help you make an informed decision about which funding management option is right for you. By choosing the option that best suits your needs and preferences, you can maximize the benefits of the NDIS and achieve your goals for care and support.
Scarlett's Autism Therapy Centre is not currently a registered NDIS provider. Therefore, we recommend that you consider being self or plan managed, in order to access our ABA and Early Intervention Therapy Services.