Like most people, you may have many questions about the NDIS or National Disability Insurance Scheme. After all, it’s a pretty big deal. The NDIS provides much-needed support to those with disabilities and can be a game-changer for many people. But with such a complex system in place, it can take time to figure out where to start. Thankfully, there are support coordinators and NDIS plan managers in Sydney or your neighbourhood to help the participants understand the plan and make the most out of it. However, you will receive the benefits only while working with the best plan managers, so we’ve put together a list of 10 questions to ask your NDIS plan manager. You’ll be a step closer to finding the plan manager most suitable for your needs by getting the answers to these questions.
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How Long Have You Been Working With the NDIS?
In NDIS, the plan managers must have financial prowess and a background in the disability sector. In addition to that, they must also be aware of the NDIS code of conduct. By asking the plan manager about their experience, the participants can gauge their knowledge and expertise in understanding the needs of the participants and acting appropriately to support them.
What Are Your Qualifications?
The plan managers help to draft a budget that fits all your requirements. They are the people who assist the participants in putting the plan to the best use and spending it on resources that enable them to achieve all the desired goals. They also help find the best providers at reasonable costs while respecting your choices. Therefore find a plan manager with a solid financial background and training in the disability sector so that they understand the NDIS code of conduct wherein the participant’s choices are of the ultimate preference.
Does the Plan Manager Specialise in NDIS?
You want the NDIS plan managers you hire to be committed to helping you get the best outcome from your plan. Therefore it’s critical to establish that they specialise in NDIS services, which means they are aware of the code of conduct and serve different categories of NDIS participants. Your plan managers might not have the necessary degree of knowledge if they aren’t NDIS specialists. Working with plan managers who are familiar with the NDIS is ideal. They will assist you in making the most of your resources in this way. Additionally, they will be able to process payments and claims more promptly and effectively.
How Can I Engage With the Plan Manager?
NDIS plan management in Sydney functions in different ways. Some plan managers frequently visit the participants, while others are available for a chat whenever required. Plan managers opt for apps such as Skype, Zoom etc., to talk to the participants and answer their queries. Before entering an agreement with the plan manager, it’s essential to know how they engage with you so that you can have your queries sorted in time.
How Much Time Will You Take To Pay an Invoice?
Let’s imagine you visited your physiotherapist, and they required payment on the spot. You paid them out of your pocket and have now requested reimbursement from the NDIS plan manager. You may need your money back in three to five days. Likewise, many small businesses send out invoices with a one-week payment deadline. It’s imperative to know if your NDIS plan manager in Sydney can fulfil these demands or if you will have to face a difficulty in such a situation.
Can I Get a Copy of a Paid Invoice?
It is crucial to always have access to your invoices, and a competent NDIS plan manager will make this simple. Sometimes you may require a copy of the paid invoice to show the providers or other service givers. In such a circumstance, your plan manager must readily make a copy of the paid invoice available for reference. Plan managers also provide online portals to the participants so they can look into the invoices at any given time.
Will You Help Me Track My Budget Real-Time?
There are apps and online portals provided by some plan managers where you can view your budget in “real-time.” similar to what the NDIS MyPlace portal offers. At any moment, you can go into great depth with your NDIS plan manager. NDIS plan managers in Sydney or elsewhere also provide a monthly statement to participants depicting the expenses, invoices, and the amount balance in the fund.If you have a plan manager, they need to be able to tell you how quickly you are using your money. Additionally, the plan managers must also be able to inform you when you will run out of money. It will enable you to modify your expenditure if necessary. Always talk to your plan manager regarding tracking the budget, so you never end up over or under-spending.
Can I Opt Out of the Service Agreement if Unsatisfied?
The service agreement is vital to seal the deal with your plan manager. However, you must also know what happens if you want to step out of the deal. As per the rules of NDIS, it’s the participant’s choice to assign a plan manager and abort the collaboration if required. Your plan manager must also talk in similar terms regarding the times you wish to opt-out of the service agreement. It must always be an easy transition.
In a Nutshell
The NDIS can be complex and overwhelming. That’s why we have come up with a list of 8 questions to ask your NDIS plan manager. With the answers to these questions, you’ll be one step closer to getting the best from your NDIS plan and meeting your needs. If you or your loved ones are seeking competent plan management services, connect with Sky Plan Management https://www.skyplanmanagement.com.au/ndis-plan-management-nsw/sydney/ . We are a team of compassionate, empathetic, people-centric plan managers who work to create personalised budgets for NDIS participants and help them utilise the fund to its fullest.