NDIS Plan Rollover: What happens when NDIS expires
While the idea of your NDIS plan expiring might seem daunting, it’s actually an opportunity for reflection. Take this chance to assess whether your current plan is working for you and whether you are satisfied with the supports you’re receiving. Whether you want to continue as it is, or make some adjustments due to changes in your circumstances, it’s an empowering moment for personalising your support.
As your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan approaches its expiration date, it’s time to think about your NDIS renewal. Several weeks before your plan concludes, the NDIS will reach out to you to discuss your plan review, your current support needs and any changes in your circumstances.
In case your new plan isn’t finalised by the expiration date, your current plan will be automatically extended for up to 12 months. This ensures continuity of support while allowing ample time for a thoughtful and comprehensive plan review.
How long does the NDIS plan last?
Every participant has their own unique journey, and the NDIS recognises the significance of your living situation, your goals and your circumstances when determining the plan term. Typically, an NDIS plan lasts up to 12 months, to allow for a comprehensive review and potential adjustments to better align with your evolving needs.
If your living situation and support needs are stable you may get up to a 36 month plan. If you’ve already gone through multiple successful plans, established your core supports that work best for you, and your situation is unlikely to change, the NDIS may consider a 5 year plan.
But for those whose circumstances are likely to change sooner than that the length of your plan will more likely be 12 months. However, if you have a specific preference for your plan duration, the NDIS strives to accommodate your choice.
With the recent review of the NDIS system, the option for a longer plan may benefit you. You can find out more from the NDIS plan duration guidance on their website.
What is an NDIS plan renewal?
When you come to the end of your NDIS plan, your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) will reach out to you to discuss your situation. You will have the option to keep the plan as it is going forward or to make any necessary changes. A plan renewal can include:
A plan extension – This is the continuation of your current plan, with the same budget, extended for one month or up to a year. This provides you with additional time if your plan review or renewal is ongoing.
A plan review – A comprehensive assessment of your plan, especially if there have been any significant changes in your circumstances. This typically involves an in-person meeting with your LAC and the NDIA to implement necessary changes to your supports and budget.
A plan renewal – The creation of a new plan with necessary changes to your supports or budget for a new period of time. Discussions with your LAC and the NDIA precede the renewal to address any required adjustments.
Ultimately, your plan is yours and you have the ability to decide what you want to do with it. If you believe necessary changes will align better with your current needs and goals then don’t hesitate to speak up. The goal of the NDIA and your LAC is to provide you with the flexibility and support necessary along your evolving journey.
What happens to unused NDIS funding?
To spend all of your NDIS funding down to the last dollar by the end of your plan will be quite the challenge. There are many legitimate reasons why you may not be able to spend all of your funding and it’s important to analyse and assess what happened so that you can better allocate your funding during your next plan.
It’s important to note that any leftover funding at the end of your plan is not rolled over to your next plan’s funding. There will be an opportunity to discuss your funding and any unspent funds during your review meeting so it’s important that you advocate for yourself as to why the funds were not spent.
Some of the reasons that participants are unable to spend their funding include:
- Your health has not been good and you weren’t able to avail of specific supports
- You were on a waitlist for a much needed support
- Natural disasters or circumstances due to illness, or bushfires prevented you from accessing supports
- You were unaware of what your funding could be used for
- You experienced difficulty finding and accessing necessary supports and providers
- You had difficulty allocating a budget for your funding or keeping track of your spending
Your Plan Manager or your service providers can generate reports documenting any instances where you were unable to access your services. Sharing these with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) and the NDIA can clarify any underspending.
How can an NDIS Plan Manager help with my NDIS plan rollover?
An NDIS Plan Manager can play an essential role in assisting participants in managing their NDIS plan rollover. To prevent underspending in your upcoming plan, a Plan Manager can assist you in accessing essential supports and budgeting your funding to maximise the benefits of your plan. They can also help you access a broader range of services beyond those provided by NDIS-registered providers, allowing you greater flexibility to explore what works for you.
Importantly, a Plan Manager can offer you professional guidance and support along your NDIS plan journey. Helping you to navigate the complexities of the NDIS system. They can also provide valuable advice on utilising your funding effectively.
Reach out to our exceptional team at Maple if you have any questions regarding the expiration of your NDIS plan and how to effectively review your previous plan to enhance your next one. Essentially, we want to help you to improve your quality of life further with the help of a plan review. 