As the end date for your NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) plan approaches, it’s normal to start wondering what’s next.
Read on to learn more about what you should do if you are yet to have a plan reassessment meeting (previously plan review), what you can expect to happen when your plan expires and what you should do before it expires.
I’ve had my plan reassessment meeting – what will happen when my NDIS plan expires?
When your current NDIS plan expires there’s no need to worry, the transition process is managed so you won’t face any sudden changes.
On the day your NDIS plan expires, if you’ve already gone through the NDIS plan reassessment process, your new plan should seamlessly take effect. All funding for supports from your previous plan will cease, and those outlined in your new plan will commence. If you’ve been receiving assistance from a plan manager, and choose to continue to have your NDIS plan managed, their services will continue under your new plan ensuring there is no break in their support.
Note: if your new plan is on the PACE system and you wish to continue using your existing providers such as Plan Management or Support Coordination services if included, make sure you communicate your endorsement of these providers such as MyIntegra during the plan reassessment meeting. Read more about endorsing providers for PACE plans.
I haven’t had my plan reassessment meeting yet – what will happen when my plan expires?
The NDIS will contact you before your plan’s end date to discuss your options. If you are happy with your current plan you can request to keep it, this is called a plan ‘rollover’. If you are not happy with your plan you can request a full plan review which gives you the chance to get a new plan more suited to your needs.
If your NDIS plan end date is coming up, but you haven’t had your plan reassessment meeting yet, no need to fret the NDIS has a safeguard in place for such scenarios. This is where an NDIS plan extension comes into play.
An NDIS plan extension ensures you continue receiving your existing supports even after your current plan’s end date. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) automatically extends your plan duration, for a temporary period, giving you time to complete the plan reassessment process.
It’s worth noting that automatic plan extensions maintain the same level of NDIS funding and supports as your existing plan. So, you can carry on with your support services without disruption.
Will I ever be stuck without funding?
The NDIA recognises how critical it is for participants to always have access to their funding, which means you will never be stuck without it, even when your plan expires.
This is where plan extensions come in. This ensures there’s no interruption in the support and services you receive. So, even if your plan reassessment meeting hasn’t occurred yet or your new plan hasn’t been finalised, you’ll still have access to NDIS funding.
How does an NDIS plan extension work?
An NDIS plan extension works by extending your current plan, for up to 12 months. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) offers this if there are unexpected delays in the plan reassessment process.
It ensures you continue to receive funding for your support needs while your new plan is being prepared. However, during an extension, no major changes can be made to your current plan – the support and funding remain as in the existing plan.
It’s important to be aware that plan extensions are primarily designed to be temporary measures. They are put in place to ensure that participants aren’t left without crucial supports.
If you know you are getting close to your plan expiry date and you have questions reach out to your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Coordinator or Planner.
What do I need to do before my NDIS plan expires?
While it’s not critical for you to do anything before your plan expires, there are a few steps you could take to help prepare for your reassessment meeting:
- Ensure you have a plan reassessment meeting scheduled. The NDIS will get in touch with you normally 3 months before your plan reassessment date is due to confirm details and talk to you about booking a plan reassessment meeting.
- Prepare for your plan reassessment meeting. You can do this by reviewing your current plan and reflecting on your progress towards your goals. Identify which supports have been most beneficial and consider any new support needs you might have. If you want to make changes start gathering the necessary documents and information as evidence for how you would benefit from additional supports.
If you are working with a Support Coordinator touch base with them to discuss your options and any questions you have. They can help you prepare for the reassessment meeting,
If you use a Plan Manager like MyIntegra we can help you understand how you are currently using your funds with access to dashboards or reports to track your spending against your budgets, identifying areas where you might be over or under spending and detailed monthly statements.
To learn more, read our blog on preparing for your NDIS planning meeting.
In summary, you will never be stuck without funding when your plan expires, however as your plan expiry date draws closer it is a good idea to think about whether your current plan is still right for you so you are well prepared for the reassessment process.
If you need support managing your plan or coordinating your supports, our team here at MyIntegra would love to help. Give us a call to learn more, or sign up today.
