Managing your NDIS funds: Plan managed

Key points

• A plan manager acts as a middle man between you and the NDIS 
• If you want to use a plan manager you need to request it in your planning meeting
• A plan manager is paid for by the NDIS

What is a plan manager?

A plan manager acts as the middleman – the NDIS pays your plan management provider, who then pays your NDIS bills and handles the paperwork. Your plan manager will meet with you to understand your plan and identify what services you’d like them to manage.

If you would like to use a plan manager, you must request this at your planning meeting. Funds will be allocated under ‘Improved Life Choices’ to cover this service – this is separate to other NDIS supports in your plan. 

If you are mid-plan and want to change, contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to discuss how you can include plan management in your plan. 

Where can I find a plan manager?

You can choose whichever plan management provider you like, so it’s important to look around and find one you are confident with.

You can find and connect with a plan manager through your Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Early Childhood Partner or Support Coordinator, or by asking friends and family. 

For a list of registered plan managers near you, browse the Disability Support Guide provider finder.

Once you have connected with a plan manager, you should create a service agreement.

A service agreement outlines: 

• the services to be provided 

• how these services will be provided

• how long they will be your plan manager

Is it for me?

If you want flexibility in the providers you can use, but aren’t confident in handling budgets, then engaging a plan manager may suit you. 

Having a plan manager gives you complete choice and control to use both NDIS registered and non-registered providers, while someone else manages your money and administration.

Your plan manager should provide regular reports and statements to you directly. When a plan manager has identified overspend or underspend, the plan manager should advise you as soon as possible, regardless of reporting frequency. 

Depending on which plan management provider you choose, they may have an app or other platform where you can track your spending.    

Benefits of being plan-managed 

• You don’t have to keep track of paperwork or open a special bank account

• Freedom to choose any service provider you like, whether they are registered or unregistered 

• No personal financial accountability

• A plan manager may be able to help you negotiate a cheaper price, enabling you to potentially get more out of your budget funds

• You have a partner to help you navigate the NDIS

• A plan manager will ensure providers are invoicing in line with the NDIS price guide

• Pros of self-management without the administrative burden

• Certain plan management providers might offer their own technology such as apps and trackers so you can view your budgets whenever you’d like

Cons of being plan-managed 

• Another person to meet with regularly

• The billing process may take longer

• It could take some time to find a plan manager you are 100 percent happy with

Do you use a plan manager? Share you experiences in the comments.

Related content

• Managing your NDIS funds: Self-managed
• Managing your NDIS funds: Agency-managed
• How to manage your NDIS funds