When it comes to using your NDIS funding for household items, it can be a little confusing as to what you can and can’t claim. Some items you consider as reasonable and necessary may not actually meet the NDIS criteria, while others may surprise you. It’s important to understand the ins and outs of claiming household items so you can ensure you’re using you NDIS plan effectively and in-line with the NDIS rules and regulations.
Understanding commonly funded household items
The household items that can be funded under the NDIS can vary depending on the specific needs and goals of each participant. Some commonly funded items include:
1. Assistive Technology
This category includes items such as:
Kitchen aids (e.g., modified utensils, adaptive cutlery)
Bathroom and personal care equipment (e.g., shower chairs, handrails)
Mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers)
Communication devices
These assistive devices may be vital for participants to perform tasks independently and safely.
2. Home Modifications
The NDIS can fund necessary modifications to participants' homes to promote accessibility and safety. This can include installing ramps, widened doorways, accessible bathrooms, and handrails. Home modifications aim to enhance participants' ability to move around their living space comfortably and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
3. Consumables
The NDIS can also provide funding for household consumable items required due to a participant's disability. This can include items such as continence aids, wound care supplies, or specialised equipment necessary for a particular medical condition.
How to access funding for household items
To access funding for household items, NDIS participants need to undergo an assessment process with their NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC). This process involves identifying the participant's specific needs, goals, and the support required to achieve those goals. The assessment considers the participant's disability-related needs and the impact on their daily living activities. Based on this assessment, an individualised plan is developed, outlining the funding allocation for various supports, including household items.
It is important to note that the NDIS funding for household items is not unlimited and is subject to budget constraints. The NDIS aims to ensure that participants receive reasonable and necessary support that is directly related to their disability needs and goals.
Let’s talk washing machines, dryers, dishwashers & air conditioning
One commonly asked question we receive is whether washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, and air conditioners can be claimed using NDIS funding.
Some participants may have washable continence products or find it difficult to manage washing up from a sink. Others may want to regulate the temperature of their environment. There are many reasons why a participant may wish to use funding for these items, so why doesn’t the NDIS fund them?
Typically, these items are not used by a participant solely because of their disability needs, which is one of the core criteria under the NDIS reasonable and necessary. An important question to ask when considering if something is reasonable and necessary is whether the item will be used for anything outside your disability needs.
For example: Will the washing machine be used for washing the clothes of another household member or for clothes used on a day-to-day basis that are not related to your disability?
In most cases, these items would be considered day-to-day living costs that a person with or without a disability would need to pay for themselves. However, if you feel that any of these items are reasonable and necessary, then it’s best to discuss this with your LAC or NDIA representative. Be sure to provide any supporting documentation you can to better support your funding request.
When it comes to the NDIS, funding for household items for individuals with disabilities can support their independence, safety, and overall quality of life. It’s important for participants to consider whether a household item is reasonable and necessary under the NDIS, and if you have any questions be sure to discuss this with you LAC or NDIA representative.
Read more about the benefits of working with an independent, professional Plan Manager. Alternatively, contact our friendly team on 1300 322 273 or support@first2care.com.au.