How to Choose an NDIS Plan Manager

Managing NDIS funding is not a task to take lightly. To help maximise their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds without having to worry about all the repetitive tasks and the paperwork, most Australians work with a dedicated Plan Manager. This is a critical step towards receiving the best possible support for specific needs including disabilities. Your Plan Manager will handle financial and administrative tasks related to your NDIS fund management, freeing you up to focus on your goals.

In this post, we will highlight what are the qualities to look for in choosing an NDIS Plan Manager. Depending on your needs and preferences, these can include:

• Care and empathy
• Good communication and coordination skills
• Good organising skills
• Proven experience
• Online accessibility 
• Flexibility

Your choice of Plan Manager can greatly influence how well you’re able to use your NDIS plan, so it’s worth taking the time to choose carefully. Here are some ways to choose the NDIS Plan Manager that is perfect for you.

Look for care and empathy, with good organisation skills

Understand your needs and goals. Before you start looking for a plan manager, take some time to consider what you want out of the NDIS and how a plan manager could assist you. Are you looking for someone to simply manage the finances? Or are you looking for a comprehensive service that also includes support coordination and advice on how to get the most from your NDIS plan?

Research Available Plan Managers

There are many Plan Management services out there, and the quality can vary significantly. Consider whether you want a local provider, or if you’re happy with a larger, national service. You can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your local disability support group.

Require Proven Experience

Check their qualifications. The right Plan Manager should have a deep understanding of the NDIS, experience in financial management, and a background in the disability sector. Ensure they are registered with the NDIS, as this means they meet certain standards of practice. 

Review Their Services

Plan Managers can offer different services. Some may only manage financial tasks, while others might provide additional services such as support coordination or plan building. Check what’s included in their fees, and choose a manager whose services align with your needs.

Good Communication Skills

Check the quality of their service. The best Plan Managers are easy to contact, quick to respond, and clear with what they need to help you. They should also be proactive about keeping you updated about your funds and your plan. Try contacting potential Plan Managers to see how responsive and helpful they are.

Review their Fees

NDIS sets a standard price for Plan Management, but some managers might offer other services for additional fees. Make sure you understand what’s included in their fees and compare different providers to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Online Access

Many Plan Managers offer online platforms like an app where you can track your funding and see invoices that have been paid. If this is important to you, make sure to choose a Plan Manager with a user-friendly platform.

Flexibility

Your needs might change over time, so it’s important to choose a Plan Manager who is flexible and can adapt to your changing needs.

How do I find an NDIS Plan Manager?

Once you are set with what you need, you are ready to look for an NDIS Plan Manager. But where can you find them? Below are some of the most recommended places to visit. Asking for recommendations from family and friends is a great way too!

• Depending on your situation, you can connect with your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Partner, or Support Coordinator
• Check the Provider Finder tool on the NDIS my place participant portal
• Do some online research on legitimate and reliable websites

Remember, you can change your Plan Manager if you’re not happy with their services, so don’t feel locked into your decision. You have choice and control about who is your plan manager.

Choose AIIM Choices

AIIM Choices is a leading NDIS community leader with proven experience in NDIS access application and plan management. We offer participants a dedicated plan manager with direct dial access who can accommodate their specific needs.  

We take pride in our approach that begins with listening to each participant as we care about the outcomes that can be delivered through your funding for you to live your best life.

Our staff can also communicate in over 15 languages through various channels, including an NDIS fund management app.

Contact us today to see how we can help in managing your NDIS fund and enabling you to make the most of your NDIS plan.