5 Reasons why is it CRUCIAL to actively engage with your NDIS Plan management for effective oversight

Attention NDIS Participants, Guardians, and Plan Nominees! It's crucial to actively engage with your NDIS plan management for effective oversight. Here's why:

1. Real-Time Funding Access:

Ensure you have online access to real-time data of your current available funding. This empowers you to make informed decisions about your support services and expenditures. You SHOULD be provided with access to an online plan management portal with your plan management company for you to be able to see your current available funding as of that current moment. If you don’t – request this access ASAP!

2. Preventing Payment Errors:

Before invoice payments are made to NDIS service providers, take the time to check invoices thoroughly. This practice helps catch any discrepancies or errors, safeguarding against incorrect payments. For example – make sure that the support shift that was cancelled last week due to sick support worker was not charged! In large and busy organisations, errors such as these can occur easily. 

3. Service Verification:

Regularly reviewing your statements allows you to verify that the services listed in the invoices align with what was agreed upon. This ensures you're receiving the support you need and only paying for services rendered. For example, if you have agreed to a schedule of services every 3 weeks with a gardener, but they are charging for services every 2 weeks – this can be identified easily when you are checking your plan management portal or plan management statements. Your NDIS funds are too important to be misused!

4. Guarding Against Fraud:

Vigilance is key in detecting any potential fraudulent activities. By reviewing statements regularly, you can spot any suspicious charges or services not provided, protecting yourself from fraud.

5. Quarterly Contact and Overspending Alerts:

A reputable plan management company will proactively contact you at least quarterly to review your plan. They will also notify you of any potential overspends forecasted, offering valuable insights and guidance to help you stay within budget. How often does your plan manager contact you?? If not at least every 3 months, we would recommend changing to a plan management company that does!

By actively engaging with your NDIS plan management and staying informed about your funding and expenditures, you can effectively manage your plan and maximise its benefits. Stay proactive, stay informed!