Financial support is one of the biggest challenges of a special needs caretaker, especially single parents. While the National Disability Insurance Scheme can provide household relief, it doesn’t always guarantee better lives. This unfortunate revelation is what happened to those who unwittingly mismanaged their funds.
The NDIS has a clear goal of improving its participants’ way of life by covering all reasonable expenses associated with disability. Though it offers possible convenience, parents who manage these funds for their kids must fully understand its inclusions and other things beyond its scope so they can make the most out of it.
We highlighted below some ways how NDIS could serve you better.
Avoid Bankruptcy With NDIS Knowledge
NDIS can be a slippery slope to hefty debt. There were cases wherein participants and their guardians bought grocery items, equipment, and gym subscriptions, which are not valid costs according to the NDIS guidelines. After the accounting decision came out, huge owing bills surprised them.
They could have avoided this scenario by referring to the NDIS website guidelines. Signing up for plan services, who will guide them through their NDIS concerns, would also keep their finances safe. Before you spend money on anything, review the scheme inclusions first or contact a support coordinator for assistance.
Avail Plan Management
There are three plan management options to choose from. First is a self-managed plan where the NDIS beneficiary or the guardian manages the funds on their own. Another is through an agency with registered providers who bill NDIS directly.
A more recommended plan management contract is through a registered NDIS plan manager. A plan manager will deliver their professional services on budget management, sit down with participants to identify goals, and tailor an NDIS spend plan that meets these requirements.
Take Advantage Of High-End Equipment Funds
The NDIS consists of different budgets. Verify the allocated funds on your account, then proceed with scanning the list of possible high-end equipment items that would be useful for the participant’s case.
Also called assistive technologies, these reimbursable pieces would have to be physical supports or apps that would help you to:
- Move easily, like wheelchairs and home modifications
- Do something safely like non-slip mats
- Help you with your impairments
- Other reasonable expenses based on the participant’s disability
Avoid Frequent Mistakes Other NDIS Holders Do
The most common NDIS assumptions that backfired include buying a car, gym memberships, buying essential goods, and other purchases that a person without a disability would incur.
Cars may be helpful for individuals with disabilities. However, as this is a regular purchase, NDIS does not consider it a reasonable cost. Vehicle modifications may pass as a valid purchase, though it would need a recommendation from a professional AT assessor.
NDIS also turns down gym memberships. They recommend accredited physical trainers who have more training when dealing with disabilities.
As for essential goods such as food, water, rent, and utilities, they also fall under the everyday purchases of a person without special needs. As such, NDIS would reject any of the above items charged against the budget.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to utilizing NDIS funds to the fullest without the risk of incurring colossal payables, the best course to take is to read through the guidelines and consult a support coordinator.
