Understanding how to use your NDIS plan effectively, is key to accessing the supports you need. This article will guide you through using your plan flexibly and explain important terms like "stated supports" and "in-kind supports" which may be included within the plan.
Understanding Your Plan's Support Categories
Within the NDIS Plan Support Categories, you'll encounter three main types of supports:
- ❗Stated Supports (Not Flexible): When a support is "stated," it means the funding is specifically allocated for that described support. While you have control over how you spend your funds on these specific supports, you cannot use these funds to purchase different supports. You cannot swap 'stated supports' for any other supports.
- ❗Semi-stated (Some Flexibility): This means the participant has limited flexibility on what supports they purchase within the support category. For example the plan may state only certain therapies can be used, however there is flexibility in regard to the amounts of each which can be used.
- ❗Flexible Supports: These funds offer greater adaptability. You can use your flexible funds to purchase the kinds of supports you believe will best help you achieve your goals or meet your needs, especially while you await a decision on your requested plan changes.
Core funding can be used flexibly with other Core support types. It cannot be swapped with other support types like Capacity Building. There is full flexibility providing these supports have not been 'stated'. If you need assistance with using your current plan flexibly, we encourage you to speak with your my NDIS contact to discuss your options.
Crucially, any supports you decide to purchase must be "reasonable and necessary" and aligned with what is permissible under NDIS guidelines.
🔗 Find more detailed information on support categories and budgets.
Quote Required
Where a support is listed as "quote required," additional information such as quotes and/or specialist reports will be necessary before the corresponding funding can be made available in your plan.
🔗 Who is an Assistive Technology (AT) Advisor?
🔗 Assistive Technology (AT) Advisor Report: A Key to Funding
In-Kind Supports – Pre-paid
If your plan includes "in-kind" supports, it means the service has already been paid for by your state, territory, or the Australian government. When you use an in-kind service, your existing provider will deliver the supports, and you will not need to pay for them with your NDIS plan funds. If you have any concerns about using a specific in-kind provider or service, please talk to your My NDIS Contact.
Critical Situations During Plan Reassessment
If you have previously requested changes to your plan and your situation becomes critical while you are waiting for your plan reassessment, please call NDIS immediately on 1800 800 110 with your reference number so the NDIS can prioritise your request.