Navigating the NDIS can sometimes feel like learning a whole new language, filled with plans, budgets, and portals. We understand that managing the financial side of your plan can be stressful and time-consuming. But you don't have to do it alone. That's where a plan manager comes in – to act as your trusted guide and take the financial admin off your plate.
At Liorn Support Services, we believe your focus should be on living your life and achieving your goals, not on paperwork. In this article, we'll gently break down exactly what a plan manager does and how they can make your NDIS journey smoother and less stressful.
So, What Exactly is a Plan Manager?
Think of a plan manager as your personal bookkeeper or financial assistant for your NDIS plan. They are an independent expert whose job is to handle all the financial tasks associated with your funding.
Instead of you having to deal with paying providers, claiming funds from the NDIS portal, and tracking every dollar, your plan manager does it all for you. This frees you up to concentrate on what truly matters: getting the most out of your supports.
How Does Plan Management Work?
The process is wonderfully simple and is designed to give you peace of mind. Here’s how it typically works:
- You Choose Your Supports: You find the therapists, support workers, or other providers you want to work with.
- Invoices Go to Us: Your providers send their invoices directly to your plan manager (that's us!), not to you.
- We Handle the Rest: We check the invoice to make sure it's correct, then claim the funds directly from the NDIS portal.
- Providers Get Paid Promptly: We pay your provider on your behalf from your NDIS funding.
- You Stay Informed: We keep a detailed record of all your spending and provide you with regular, easy-to-understand statements so you always know how your budget is tracking.
The Key Benefits of Having a Plan Manager
Choosing plan management offers a perfect blend of support and independence. Here are the main advantages:
- Complete Choice and Control: This is the big one! With a plan manager, you have the flexibility to use both NDIS-registered and non-registered providers. This opens up a much wider pool of services, from local gardeners and cleaners to specialised therapists who may not be registered.
- Reduced Stress and Admin: Say goodbye to chasing invoices, processing payments, and navigating the NDIS portal. We take care of all the financial administration, saving you valuable time and energy.
- Expert Guidance and Support: Your plan manager is an expert in the NDIS financial landscape. We help you track your budget, understand your spending, and ensure you're maximising your funds throughout your plan. We're always here to answer your money-related questions.
- It Comes at No Cost to You: Plan management funding is a separate category in your NDIS plan called 'Improved Life Choices'. This means it doesn't take away from the funds you have for your other supports. If you'd like a plan manager, simply ask for it to be included in your plan during your planning meeting.
Is Plan Management Right for You?
If you find yourself nodding along to any of these questions, plan management could be the perfect fit for your NDIS journey:
- Do you want the freedom to choose from the widest range of providers?
- Does the thought of managing budgets and paying invoices feel overwhelming?
- Would you like an expert to help you keep track of your spending and provide support?
- Do you simply want more time to focus on your goals and less time on paperwork?
How Liorn Support Services Can Help
At Liorn Support Services, our dedicated plan management team is here to empower you. We see our role as more than just processing payments; we're your partner in making your NDIS plan work for you. Our friendly, approachable team will ensure your providers are paid on time and you always feel in control of your funding, without any of the stress.
If you're curious to learn more or want to discuss how plan management can bring simplicity and peace of mind to your NDIS experience, please reach out to us. We're here to listen and support you every step of the way.