We’re hearing a lot in the media about the rising cost of living and how to carefully budget to save money.
Managing the funds in your NDIS Plan is no different. By proactively managing the funds in your NDIS Plan, you can ensure you get the supports you need for the length of your plan.
There are many things you can do to make your NDIS funds stretch a little further so you get more value from your budgets.
How to make your NDIS funds go further.
1. Spread expenditure over the length of your plan.
Budgeting is an important tool for managing money, whether it be at home or in your NDIS Plan. Once your plan has been provided, in most cases, the amount needs to last for the length of your plan. It’s helpful to map out expenses by the week or month at the start of your plan so you have an idea of how much you have to spend. The Leap in! app is the perfect tool for managing your NDIS budget.
2. Negotiate lower rates with providers.
While the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits set maximum price limits for supports, it is often possible to negotiate lower rates. When reviewing pricing or quotes, keep in mind that providers can’t charge people on the NDIS more than they would charge anyone else for the same support.
3. Choose plan management or self management.
Plan management and self management offer the freedom to use providers who are registered and unregistered which gives you more flexibility to shop around. People who are Agency managed can only purchase services and supports from NDIS registered providers.
4. Pay lower prices for non-direct supports such as travel and admin.
Check your service agreement drafts to see if providers are charging the same amount for non-direct supports. For example, you may be charged the same hourly rate for travel and admin as for support work. Often, providers are willing to negotiate lower rates for these non-direct supports.
5. Shop around for low cost AT and consumables.
Prices for assistive technology and consumables can vary greatly so it’s worthwhile doing some research prior to purchase. If you’re plan managed or self manage, check out prices both in store and online. You may even be able to take advantage of seasonal sales for AT or buy some consumable items in bulk for better discounts. If you’re a Leap in! Member remember to check out the deals and offers available in the L! Member Benefits Club.
6. Give the right notice for cancellations.
If you need to postpone or cancel an appointment, be sure to give enough notice according to your service agreement (usually seven days). Providers can claim up to the full cost of an appointment on your NDIS Plan for ‘short notice cancellations’ if you do not give seven days’ notice and they are unable to find alternative billable work.
7. Consider group-based supports.
Group-based or centre-based supports generally cost each person less than individual supports as the total cost is divided up between the number of people (some exceptions apply). While this option does not suit everyone, it can be a great way to make the funds in your plan go further.
Take advantage of the Leap in! Budget Health Check.
With Leap in! plan management, you get a free monthly Budget Health Check in addition to your monthly statement so you know exactly how you are tracking every month.
Find out how much is left to spend in each category and whether it is on track or off track so you can avoid running out early or not using all of your funding.
Further reading.
5 tips for utilising all of your NDIS Plan budget.
7 money saving tips to help you budget.
Top 5 reasons why people don’t spend their NDIS budgets.