Self-Managed Plans: Empowering Autonomy
Welcome to the second instalment of our series on NDIS Plan Management, where we explore the realm of self-managed plans. Self-management is a unique approach where participants take direct control of their NDIS funding. This empowers individuals with the flexibility and freedom to decide on the supports that best align with their plan goals.
Benefits of Self-Managing
Self-managing your NDIS funding provides unparalleled control, independence, and flexibility in arranging and paying for your supports. Key benefits include:
Choice in Deciding Supports
Decide what supports align with your plan goals.
Choose providers based on your preferences and needs.
Flexibility
Use any provider that best helps you pursue your plan goals.
Negotiating Costs
Negotiate support costs for the best value-for-money.
Budget Control
Manage your own budget for the duration of your plan.
Have control and responsibility for your NDIS funding.
While self-management offers immense benefits, it comes with responsibilities. As a self-manager, you are responsible for:
Purchasing Supports
Purchase supports linked to the goals in your NDIS plan.
Agreements with Providers
Make clear agreements with providers about the supports you will receive.
Financial Management
Manage funding so the costs of support align with your budget.
Claiming and Paying for Supports
Make payment requests and pay for supports on time.
Record Keeping
Keep invoices and receipts as evidence of fund utilisation.
Employer Obligations
Understand and fulfill obligations if you choose to employ staff directly.
Plan Reassessment
Show how you've used your self-managed funding towards pursuing your goals during plan reassessment.
Communication with NDIA
Advise the NDIA of any significant changes in your circumstances.
Participants have the choice to buy supports that align with their goals. Supports must be linked to the support budget and goals in your current NDIS plan, provide good value-for-money, last the length of your plan, and be legal.
Self-management is a powerful approach that unlocks a world of possibilities for NDIS participants. It's about not just managing funds but shaping a journey that aligns with unique aspirations and needs. Join us in the next segment as we delve into the world of plan management through a plan manager.
