One of the biggest advantages of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is that you choose how you want your plan to be managed. Managing your funding based on your individual needs can allow you to be more independent, while working to achieve your goals.
However, what may work for some people may not work for others. Some people might prefer to have another person manage their plan for them, or to work with a professional who fully understands and can meet their specific needs.
What’s important to understand is that you have options and the freedom to choose. Knowing this, your next question may be: how can I use these options to get the most out of my NDIS funding?
There are several different ways you can manage your NDIS funding and each of them comes with its own set of advantages. But ultimately, it depends on your current situation and needs. With that in mind, here are three ways you can manage your plan to ensure you make the most of the supports you receive.
1. Managing your NDIS plan yourself (self-managed plan)
If you are looking to independently manage the financial aspect of your NDIS plan, then self-management might be a good option for you. Self-management means you control and manage most aspects of your plan. However, it also means that you are responsible for all the administration and record-keeping along the way. You might have to do some research to ensure your individual needs are met, and that you are getting the most out of your funding.
While self-management can give you a greater sense of independence, this option isn’t for everyone. If you decide self-management is not for you, don’t be concerned! This brings us to your next choice.
2. Hiring a professional Plan Manager (plan managed)
If you don’t want to concern yourself with the intricacies of financially managing your own plan, you may prefer to sign up with a Plan Manager such as ISM. A Plan Manager will assist you with the ins and outs of successfully managing your plan and will help you to spend your NDIS funding appropriately.
Plan Managers take care of all the daily administration that comes with managing your NDIS plan. But not all Plan Managers offer the same quality of services.
To get the most out of this service, you need to make sure a Plan Manager is a good fit for you. A good Plan Manager will make sure your services get paid on time, and can assist you when you need help regarding your financials. So, make sure to do your research before making any decisions.
3. Using a combination of Plan Management methods
You don’t have to stick to just one option for your whole plan period, either. For example, you can contract a Plan Manager to manage your core funding, while self-managing your capacity-building budget at the same time.
Using a combination of management options to control your NDIS funding may give you a greater sense of flexibility and independence.
Now the only decision left to make is, which plan management option is the right fit for you? The good news is, you don’t have to make this decision on your own.
Here at ISM, we strive to support you so you can reach your unique goals. As Plan Managers, we are dedicated to helping you meet your goals in the most efficient way, while making the entire process as easy as possible for you.
Are you ready to join a reliable plan manager you can trust?
Sign up to Independent Support Management today
Read more: Not sure if you are eligible for NDIS? Click here to find out.