Can I change my NDIS Plan Manager?

You might be willing to make a change to a different plan manager if you are not satisfied with the services provided by an existing provider. You are entitled to change your plan manager irrespective of whether they are not providing the expected level of service or you moving interstate and willing to find a manager close to you. 

Switching is a quick and easy process that costs nothing hence, you can change your NDIS plan manger anytime and look for the best and trusted Plan Management services in Victoria in order to achieve your desired goals and get the most out of your NDIS funds.

Here, we’ll share some steps that you need to take before changing your NDIS plan manager.

Can I change my NDIS Plan Manager?

The first question that arises is whether you can change your existing NDIS plan manager. Well, the answer is yes! It is quite easy and simple to switch from your existing plan manager to a new one if you are unhappy with the current services that they offer. You need to inform the NDIA prior to making a change in your plan manager, either between an existing plan or at the end of your plan. 

The current plan manger should be well informed about the cancellation of their services without any explanation or justification. However, some agencies might not be willing to take you as their new client if you are plan with the former manager still exists. So, you must check with them before switching to them.

How to change an existing plan manager?

Changing your plan manager is relatively a straightforward process however, it would vary depending on the time you decide to make the switch.

Here are some steps to perform before switching to a new plan manager:

• Contact NDIA to inform them about your decision of changing your existing plan manager.
• Register yourself with your new plan manager and ask them to help you with the process of completing the necessary paperwork required.
•  Request your current plan manager to stop paying your invoices by canceling the services on the day you decide and make a switch to the new Plan Manager.
• Your new plan manager will automatically activate your account and start processing your invoices through your current NDIS plan after the existing provider cancels their services.
• Confirm the final date of service with your new service providers within the notification period of 15-20 days.

Is there anything else you need to know before you switch?

Your existing plan manager has no right to question your decision of requesting to change your plan manager. They are supposed to perform all their duties with utmost responsibility before you switch your services from them to another plan manager. You must look for a plan manger that you can have faith in and completely rely on. You can easily switch even if your existing provider has been covered up by a setup fee by the NDIS. There are no additional costs involved in changing your NDIS plan manager apart from the standard monthly costs which are automatically deducted from your NDIS funding. 

How to look for a better NDIS plan manager?

There are various ways in which you can find the best NDIS plan managers. The NDIS my place participant portal has a Provider Finder Tool that can be used to look for the best NDIS service providers. The provider has to give proof of all the required qualifications, approvals and access to support before registering with NDIA. Unlike the non-registered service mangers, registered providers have to adhere to specific laws, guidelines and policies.

There are several other ways through which you can get advice on choosing the best NDIS plan manager:

• Get suggestions from your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or support coordinators.
• It is always advisable to approach your friends or family that have experience with the NDIS for recommendations.
• Enter your suburb name and let the search engine help you find a service provider or type on the internet “NDIS plan manager near me”.
• Go through their websites, blogs and review testimonials in order to make the right choice.

what will happen to your plan funds when you switch?

 Just like your existing service providers, your new NDIS plan manager would be paid similarly through your plan funds for Improved Life Choices. Your current plan funds would not be affected after switching to a new service provider.

Things to consider before choosing your new plan manger:

These are some of the qualities you must look for before selecting the kind of plan manager you want:

• Trust:

You should have trust on your plan manager as they have to take care of your NDIS budget, provide you independent advice and be completely friendly while tracking the budgets.

• Expertise:

In order to provide you a valuable advice, your plan manager should have the perfect knowledge in the NDIS so that you can make the most of your NDIS funds.

• Understanding:

You should have a plan manager that will go beyond limits to understand and support you through your entire NDIS plan journey.

• The plan manager should be transparency:

Maintain transparency with your plan manager so that you can easily log in to management portals to see your transactions in real time.

• There should be easy communication:

There should be an easy communication between the service providers and NDIS members. Make sure to have a seamless conversation with your plan manager.

Rahul Pandey