If your NDIS plan is agency-managed or self-managed, you can ask to change to plan management at any time. You do not need to wait until your next plan reassessment.
Plan management can give you more choice over providers while taking the stress out of invoices, claims and budget tracking.
5 steps to switch to plan management
Step 1: Contact the NDIS or your my NDIS contact
Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or contact the my NDIS contact listed on your plan. Let them know that you would like to change your funding to plan-managed.
If you have a support coordinator, they may also be able to help you understand the process.
Step 2: Ask for a plan variation
Changing how your funding is managed is usually a small, or light touch, change to your current plan. This is called a plan variation.
The NDIS may ask you to complete a plan variation request form or explain why you would like the change. You could say that you want help with invoices and budget tracking, or that you would like the option to use registered and non-registered providers.
You do not usually need reports or other evidence just to change the way your funding is managed. If you are unsure what the NDIS needs, ask your my NDIS contact.
Step 3: Wait for the NDIS decision
The NDIS will let you know whether the change has been approved. If it is approved, you will receive an updated plan showing that your funding is plan-managed.
It is important to wait until the change is in place before asking a plan manager to pay invoices from your plan.
Step 4: Choose a registered plan manager
Once plan management is included in your plan, choose a registered NDIS plan manager. Your plan manager will explain their service agreement, how to send invoices and how you can check your budget.
Not sure who to choose? Read How to Choose the Best NDIS Plan Manager for You.
You will need to let the NDIS know who you have chosen so your plan manager can access the parts of your plan they need to manage payments. This is sometimes called endorsing your plan manager.
Step 5: Start using your plan-managed funding
Your providers can then send invoices to your plan manager. The plan manager checks the invoice, submits the claim and pays your provider. They also send you regular budget updates, so you can see what you have spent and what is left.
Do I have to wait for my plan reassessment?
No. You can ask to change to plan management during your plan. You can also request it at your plan meeting or reassessment if one is coming up.
Does changing to plan management affect my other NDIS funding?
Plan management is funded separately when it is included in your plan. Changing how your plan is managed does not usually mean you need to change the supports you receive. The NDIS will confirm the outcome in your updated plan.
Need help getting started?
If you would like to move to plan management, talk to Plan Hero. We can explain what plan management involves and what you need to do once your funding is changed.
Frequently asked questions
What is NDIS plan management?
Plan management is help with the financial side of your NDIS plan. A plan manager can pay providers, process claims and help you keep track of your budget. Read our guide: What Is NDIS Plan Management?
How do I choose an NDIS plan manager?
Look for a registered plan manager who communicates clearly, processes invoices promptly and makes it easy to check your budget. Read our guide: How to Choose the Best NDIS Plan Manager for You
Will my whole plan be reassessed if I ask for plan management?
No. Changing to plan management is a small, or light touch, plan variation. It does not require a full plan reassessment or change the other supports in your plan. The NDIS will confirm the outcome in your updated plan.
Does changing to plan management cost me anything?
No. When plan management is included in your plan, it is funded separately from your other supports. It does not reduce the money available for your funded services.
Can I use non-registered providers with plan management?
Yes. Plan-managed funding can give you the option to use registered and non-registered providers, as long as the support is allowed under your plan and follows NDIS rules.
Can I change my plan manager later?
Yes. You can change plan managers if the service is not right for you. Check your service agreement for any notice period, then arrange for your new plan manager to take over.
