Plan-Managed Bookings: Pre-Approval Rules in Plain English

What “pre-approval” means for plan-managed supports

In plan management, pre-approval means your plan manager (for example, through MyMoney NDIS) must agree that a support is eligible and can be paid from your NDIS funding before the provider does the work or before you book the support. Think of it as a “check first” step to protect your budget and avoid rejected invoices.

Pre-approval usually applies to specific support types, higher-cost services, or anything your plan manager needs more information about (such as the support schedule, total cost, and what you’re getting). Your provider may ask for details like goals, proposed dates, location, and the type/amount of support. Sometimes they will also submit a quote or booking request to your plan manager for review.

If you are plan-managed, you generally do not want to assume “it will be covered” just because it’s in your plan. Instead, confirm the support is within your funding and is set up correctly in MyMoney NDIS (www.planmanager.net.au). A good provider will help with the paperwork needed for the pre-approval process. If you’re unsure, you can also use My Care Finders to compare providers—such as checking who is experienced with plan-managed bookings and who communicates clearly about quotes and invoices.

Key takeaway: For plan-managed supports, get the “green light” first—pre-approval helps ensure the support can be paid from your plan and reduces the chance of delays or invoice issues.

• Ask early: Contact your plan manager (or check your booking requests) before the service starts, especially for new providers or higher-cost supports.
• Use clear details: Confirm dates, times, location, service type, and the total amount so the provider’s request matches what you need.
• Keep records: Save quotes, emails, and booking confirmations in case you need to follow up.
• Compare providers: Use My Care Finders to find providers who can support pre-approval smoothly and explain costs upfront.