When your NDIS plan is getting close to expiring, it might start feeling a bit overwhelming. But remember, there’s no need to worry because you can actually update and renew your plan. It’s a good idea to take action before the expiration date comes around because getting a new plan might take a bit of time. In the weeks leading up to the expiration of your plan, the NDIS will contact you to discuss the plan review, your current support needs, and any changes in your circumstances. Attending this review meeting will help you adjust your plan. Let’s take a closer look at what happens when your plan expires and how you can have a smooth renewal.
What happens when your NDIS plan expires?
Before your NDIS plan wraps up, the NDIS team will get in touch with you for a friendly chat about where things stand. You’re in the driver’s seat – you can either stick with your current plan as it is or tweak it a bit to match what’s going on in your life. However, if you don’t take any action and your plan expires, it may automatically extend. So, what are the available NDIS plan extensions?
Plan Extensions
When an NDIS plan expires, there are two types of plan extensions that may apply. The first type is an extension due to non-communication from the NDIS. If your plan expires without any chit-chat with them, don’t worry – you’ll still keep getting funding for a certain period. This automatic extension is part of the NDIS ACT, which states that a plan will expire only when replaced with a new plan or when you leave the scheme. It’s important to note that the extension is not a new plan but an extension of your current plan.
Plan renewals
Renewing a plan resembles extending it, though it entails acquiring a fresh plan. The primary distinction lies in the fact that during plan renewals, you engage in more extensive and involved discussions about your plans, addressing what’s effective, what isn’t, and any alterations that may have transpired in your objectives or assistance requirements. Ordinarily, your new plan commences once the existing one concludes. Nevertheless, scenarios could arise where your NDIS planner initiates the new program prior to the conclusion of the ongoing plan. It’s imperative to convey the commencement date of your new plan to your NDIS plan manager.
Types of plan reviews
- Plan Variation
Plan variations focus on minor changes that may be needed for your NDIS plan. This can include correcting a minor technical error, a change to the statement of support relating to the management of the funds for support, or other aspects of the plan, if you require crisis or emergency funding due to a change in your support needs. You can learn more about plan variations on the NDIS website here (link: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/changing-your-plan)
- Plan Reassessments
The NDIA will contact you or your authorized representative 3 months before the plan’s end date to organize a planned reassessment. The reassessment can be done either face-to-face, over the phone, or via video call. You’re able to invite anyone you would like to attend this meeting with you such as a Support Coordinator, family member, or friend. During the reassessment, you can talk about what worked well in your plan and what didn’t work your goals, and if you have any new ones and any changes to your situation. During the meeting, you can also discuss how you would like to manage your plan, during this point in the reassessment you can ask for your plan to change to be plan managed.
Preparing for your plan reassessment
Before your plan review, ask yourself the following questions to ensure you get a plan that suits your needs:
– What worked and what didn’t in your previous plan?
– Have you achieved your goals or made progress towards them?
– Do you have any new goals or do you want to modify existing ones?
– Who can assist you in reaching your goals?
– Do you still require NDIS support?
– Do you need to make changes or request a complete plan review?
Having answers to these questions will help you make informed decisions and obtain a plan that best suits your needs. The NDIS ensures that transitioning from your current plan to a new one does not disrupt your access to support and services.
Plan reviews are essential for ensuring you receive the services and support you truly need. Making sure your plan effectively meets your needs is crucial for achieving your goals.
Conclusion
Understanding ndis plan management reviews and modifications under NDIS is crucial. Whether adjusting through plan variations or reassessments, active participation ensures a tailored support approach that aligns with your goals and evolving needs further optimizing your NDIS experience.
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