There are three ways your NDIS funding can be managed. You can use one way for your whole plan, or mix them for different parts of your plan.
| Question | NDIA-managed | Plan-managed | Self-managed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who pays your providers? | The NDIA | Your plan manager | You |
| Which providers can you use? | Registered providers only | Registered and, in most cases, unregistered providers | Registered and unregistered providers |
| Paperwork for you | Low | Low | High – you keep records and make claims |
| Cost to you | None | None – funded in your plan | None, but it takes your time |
NDIA-managed (agency-managed)
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) pays your providers directly from your plan. It’s simple, but you can only use providers who are registered with the NDIS.
Plan-managed
A plan manager, like PFPM, pays your providers for you, keeps track of your budget and sends you regular statements. You can usually choose both registered and unregistered providers, which gives you more choice. Prices need to stay within the NDIS price limits — your plan manager checks this for you.
Plan management is funded as its own item in your plan, so it doesn’t reduce the money for your other supports.
Self-managed
You pay your providers yourself and claim the money back from the NDIS. You get the most flexibility, but you’re responsible for keeping receipts, records and making claims.
Which is right for you?
- Choose plan-managed if you want more choice of providers without the paperwork.
- Choose self-managed if you’re confident with money and records and want full control.
- Choose NDIA-managed if you’re happy to use registered providers only.
You can ask your LAC or NDIS planner to change how your plan is managed. If you’d like plan management, just ask for it to be included.
This guide is general information only. NDIS rules can change and every plan is different. For advice about your own plan, call us on 1300 765 573 or talk to your LAC or NDIS planner.