Budget Basics: Your “When & How” Spending Rules

Free: The “Spend Windows” idea (when money can be used)

In your NDIS budget, some supports are linked to the type of funding and the way it’s managed. A “spend window” is the period of time you’re meant to use your allocated funds—so you spend them in the right place, in the right order, before that funding is no longer available.

These windows can look different depending on your plan management. If you manage your plan with MyMoney NDIS (www.planmanager.net.au), you’ll often see clearer payment timing and how invoices are processed once supports are approved. It’s still important to check with your plan manager or Support Coordinator about what must be used each month or quarter, and what can roll over (or not).

Common examples of spend windows include:

• Monthly/fortnightly services (e.g., therapy sessions) where invoices are typically claimed after services are delivered.
• One-off purchases (e.g., assistive technology) that have to be arranged and delivered within your plan timeframe.
• Capacity-building supports that may be funded in phases, depending on your goals and approvals.

Key takeaway: Treat spend windows like “use-by dates” for certain types of funding, and plan your approvals, bookings, and paperwork early—especially if you’re waiting for provider availability.

To avoid surprises, ask providers to give you a schedule for delivery (dates, session counts, and what they’ll invoice). If you’re comparing options, My Care Finders can help you understand what providers offer and how they can work within your timing, so you don’t miss the window that keeps your funding working for you.