Navigating your NDIS funding for the first time—or even the fifth time—can feel confusing. But with the right support and clear steps, you can make the most of every dollar in your plan.
Here’s your easy step-by-step guide to using your NDIS funding, brought to you by the team at NDIS Superhero.
Step 1: Understand Your NDIS Plan
Start by reviewing your NDIS plan documents. Your plan includes:
- Your personal goals
- Funding categories (e.g., Core, Capacity Building, Capital Supports)
- How each part of your funding can be used
Tip: Don’t worry if it’s overwhelming. NDIS Superhero can walk you through your plan and help you understand how your funds work.
Step 2: Choose How to Manage Your Funds
There are three ways NDIS funds can be managed:
- NDIA-managed – Only NDIS-registered providers, and payments are handled by the NDIA.
- Self-managed – You manage your own funds, including payments and budgeting.
- Plan-managed – A Plan Manager (like NDIS Superhero) handles invoices, budget tracking, and reporting for you.
If you choose Plan Management, the NDIS pays for this service separately under “Improved Life Choices,” so it costs you nothing out of your budget.
Step 3: Find the Right Providers
Once you know your budget and goals, it’s time to find service providers. These could include:
- Support workers
- Therapists (OT, physio, psychology)
- Community programs
- Transport services
With Plan Management, you can use both NDIS-registered and unregistered providers, giving you more flexibility and choice. NDIS Superhero will check that unregistered providers are legitimate businesses to help make sure you don’t get scammed!
Step 4: Book Services and Approve Invoices
When you start receiving services:
- Ask your provider to send invoices directly to NDIS Superhero
- We check the invoice details, make sure they match your plan, and process the payment. If there are any issues with your invoice we will contact providers for you and ask them to correct them.
- You’ll receive regular statements to track your spending.
- No spreadsheets, no NDIA portal headaches—we handle it all.
Step 5: Monitor Your Budget
Keeping track of your spending ensures your funding lasts for the entire plan period. With Plan Management, you’ll get:
- Monthly statements
- Budget summaries
- Alerts if you’re over- or under-spending
Need to make adjustments? We’ll help you stay on track and even give you tips to stretch your funds further.
Step 6: Review and Prepare for Your Next Plan
Toward the end of your plan period, the NDIA will review your progress. They’ll look at how you used your funding and whether your goals were achieved.
A great Plan Manager (like NDIS Superhero) will provide detailed reports and help you prepare for your plan reassessment.
Final Thoughts
Your NDIS funding is there to help you reach your goals and live more independently. With the right knowledge—and the right support—you can use your funding with confidence and ease.
Need help getting started or switching to a Plan Manager who really supports you? Contact NDIS Superhero today and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
