You’ve applied for the NDIS, been approved and decided to engage a Plan Manager to help you manage the financial and administrative aspects of your plan. But with so many Plan Management options out there, how do you know which is the right one for you?
Plan Management
Plan Management is one of the three main options – alongside Agency and Self-Management – that you can choose to manage your NDIS plan. Plan Management is an excellent choice for participants wanting more choice and control over their plan, without the stress of managing their plan themselves.
With a good Plan Manager on your team, you can unlock the full potential of your NDIS plan. But not every Plan Manager is the same, and not every Plan Manager will be the right fit for you.
What makes a Plan Manager right for you?
(written by Bec Fitzpatrick)
Trust and rapport
The bonds you form with your support team are integral to your NDIS journey. Just like your other service providers, your Plan Manager needs to match your values and make you feel comfortable.
NDIS registration
Although you can use registered and unregistered service providers if you are Plan Managed, the Plan Management company you choose to engage will need to be registered with the NDIS. Only a registered NDIS provider can submit claims on your behalf using the online myplace portal.
Disability sector knowledge
The NDIS is governed by a set of rules, regulations and legislations that can sometimes be difficult to understand. And much of what’s written can be technical jargon. Your Plan Manager should have an intimate knowledge of the NDIS, to be able to translate information and answer any questions you have.
Financial expertise
Your Plan Manager will be responsible for paying your services providers and advising on what you can and can’t spend your money on. You need to find someone with the right skills for the job. Look for a Plan Manager with an accounting or bookkeeping background (like we have at First2Care). This experience will help you achieve the best support outcomes from your budget.
Transparency
While you won’t personally manage your money, it’s still important for you to be kept in the loop. Choose a Plan Manager that uses an NDIS Plan Management platform you can log into. You should be able to see all your transactions in real-time. You can also ask if they’ll provide up-to-date monthly overviews for you to track the status of your NDIS budgets.
Efficient processes
When you’re relying on support from your service providers, you want to know that they’ll be paid on time. Delayed payments can leave providers waiting and frustrated, which can be damaging to your ongoing relationship. Before choosing a Plan Manager, find out if they have a structured invoice payment process, including turnaround times.
Ease of communication
With a Plan Manager, you should feel relaxed knowing that you have an NDIS expert by your side. You want to know that you can access their support when you need them. When choosing a Plan Manager, find out how they communicate with their clients. Do they use email, face-to-face meetings or talk over the phone? Do they communicate clearly in words or ways you understand? Will you be able to talk to them at any time or only at your scheduled meetings? It’s important that the way they communicate works for you.
Plan Management with First2Care
At First2Care, we are solely dedicated to helping our Plan Managed participants to maximise their plan while they maintain choice and control. Our friendly, professional Plan Management team act as your personal NDIS accountant throughout your journey.
Our Plan Managers will:
Help you understand your funding and how you can make the most of your plan;
Receive invoices and pay your providers for their services (within 48 hours);
Claim funds from the NDIS portal;
Adhere to the NDIS Price Guide;
Keep track of your funds;
Provide regular budget reports so you can get the best value from your plan;
Manage financial reporting for your NDIS plan review and auditing; and
Always put you and your needs first.
With First2Care on your team, you can be confident knowing you’ll be receiving the very best in Plan Management. While our team takes care of your financial and administrative tasks, you can focus on what's important – you and your goals.
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.