Tips for Successfully Self-Managing Your NDIS Plan

Published at 05-05-2025 11:27:00

Tags: #ForParticipants

Self-managing your NDIS plan offers the freedom to make decisions about the supports and services that best align with your goals. It empowers you to be more flexible and creative in how you allocate your funds. However, with great flexibility comes responsibility, so it’s important to have a clear strategy in place. Below are some valuable tips to help you navigate self-management successfully.

1. Banking: Set Up a Dedicated Account

A separate bank account for NDIS transactions can make managing your funds much easier. Ensure the account is in the name of the NDIS participant and look for one that doesn’t charge fees.

If possible, choose an account that offers benefits such as frequent flyer points for spending on your NDIS-related expenses.

Tip: Consider opening an account with a credit card option for easy payments, but remember to monitor spending closely to avoid exceeding your budget.

2. Engaging Service Providers: Start Small and Build Gradually

One of the advantages of self-management is the ability to hire any provider, whether they are registered with the NDIS or not. If you're just starting out, ease into it by continuing with services that already work well for you.

You can also:

• Hire a support worker with an ABN (Australian Business Number).
• Employ someone directly if your care budget is substantial.

Tip: When hiring providers, ensure they understand your needs and goals, and check the NDIS “Can I Buy That?” checklist to confirm the service is claimable.

3. Budgeting: Plan for Flexibility and Emergencies

Maintaining a budget is crucial. Consider creating a simple spreadsheet to track your expenses, and upload invoices and supporting documents through the NDIS portal.

It’s also helpful to set aside 5-10% of your total plan as an emergency fund, in case unexpected situations arise. This way, you have a safety net to cover additional support needs during a crisis or an unforeseen opportunity.

Tip: Having a financial buffer at the end of your plan can allow you to invest in consumables, low-cost assistive technologies, or extra supports if needed.

4. Paying Bills: Keep Invoices and Payments Organised

Make sure that every invoice you receive meets the NDIS requirements. This ensures quicker claims processing and fewer mistakes.

Consider setting up a separate email account dedicated solely to managing invoices and receipts. This will help keep your personal and NDIS-related finances organised.

Tip: If you make a mistake with a payment or claim, don’t stress. You can always correct it by reaching out to the NDIS for adjustments.

5. Record Keeping: Stay Organised

To comply with NDIS requirements, you must keep records for up to five years to demonstrate that your decisions align with the "reasonable and necessary" guidelines.

Ensure you:

• Maintain all invoices and receipts.
• Have a system for filing documents, either digitally or physically.
• Never rely on your provider to send invoices only to your Plan Manager. Always get a copy yourself.

Tip: Use folders in your email for each provider to keep communications and invoices well-organised.

6. Help with Self-Managing: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

You can hire assistance for bookkeeping, administrative tasks, or financial management. This can help ease the burden, especially if you're new to self-managing your plan.

You are even allowed to use your Core funding to pay for this kind of assistance. The NDIS offers a specific budget line for Self-Management Capacity Building that allows you to hire help for tasks like budgeting, paying workers, or record-keeping.

Here are the rates:

• $63.23/hr (standard)
• $88.52/hr (remote)
• $94.85/hr (very remote)

Tip: Consider using software tools like MYOB or Excel to streamline your financial processes. These programs can help you track spending, manage receipts, and plan for future expenses.

Final Thoughts

Self-managing your NDIS plan can be a powerful way to take control of your supports, but it requires good organization and a proactive approach. From setting up your bank account to keeping records and planning your budget, taking these steps will help you navigate your plan with confidence and ensure you get the most out of your NDIS funding. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone—using professional help or digital tools can make the process smoother and more efficient.