Have you paid for a NDIS support out-of-pocket? Then you might be able to claim a reimbursement. Claiming a reimbursement might seem like a lot of work but with these top tips, you’ll be able to easily make a claim and have that claim actioned in no time.
What is a reimbursement?
A reimbursement occurs when a participant has opted to pay for a service out-of-pocket rather than having an invoice actioned. If this service is considered reasonable and necessary within your NDIS plan, you can request a reimbursement for the out-of-pocket expense.
Some examples of instances you may need to request a reimbursement include:
Buying off-the-shelf items such as continence items that need to be purchased by yourself at the checkout
If you work with smaller service providers like cleaners, gardeners, or maintenance workers, they may request payment up front rather than through a formal NDIS invoicing process
Tip #1: Information is key
Information and the NDIS are basically bff’s. The more information you can provide to the NDIS, the easier things tend to be. When submitting a claim, the NDIS require specific information from you to be able to process your reimbursement claim.
Information needed includes:
Receipts for the service
When the service was delivered
What item was purchased
Your providers Australian Business Number (ABN)
The amount paid or an outstanding balance
Tip #2: Understand what you can claim (and what you can’t)
If you have the funding available and the NDIS considers the support or service you would like to be reimbursed for to be reasonable and necessary, you can make a reimbursement claim.
However, there are some cases where a reimbursement cannot be made (other than if you don’t have funding available or the NDIS don’t consider it to be reasonable and necessary). They are:
If there is no evidence of a payment being made, or what supports, and items were purchased
If the provider doesn’t have an ABN (this can occur in private sales and social media marketplaces)
Tip #3: Speed up reimbursement processing
We all want faster payments, especially when it comes to a reimbursement. So, to ensure your reimbursements are processed as quickly and as accurately as possible, make sure you:
Include the word “reimbursement” in your email subject line
Make it clear who is to be reimbursed
Include your bank details (if you have not previously sent them)
Attach a clear, readable receipt that shows the provider’s details and your payment
How to submit a reimbursement request
There are two main ways you can submit a reimbursement request with First2Care. You can:
1. Fill in our online reimbursement request form
2. Email our accounts team
If you prefer to fill in our online reimbursement request form, the form will ask for specific information that we may need to process your claim. The online form gives you the opportunity to update your bank detail or any other details that may need to be updated. To fill in the form, click here.
If you prefer to email, be sure to include all the details and information needed to process your request accurately and quickly. You can email accounts@first2care.com.au with your details.
If it’s the first time you are making a claim, our accounts team will need to verify your details and may request that those details are verified with you over email or phone.
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.