Plan-Managed Payments Made Simple: How NDIS Approvals, Invoices & Payments Actually Work

When you're plan-managed, your plan manager holds your NDIS funding and pays providers on your behalf. But before any payment happens, there's an important approval process.

First, your service must be reasonable and necessary and relate to your disability support needs. It must also fit within your plan's funding categories. For example, if you need occupational therapy, it usually comes from your Improved Daily Living budget.

Here's the typical approval flow:

1. You decide on a service with a provider
2. You or your provider check if it fits your plan goals and funding
3. Your plan manager verifies there's enough budget in the right category
4. If approved, the service can proceed

Before service starts, you'll need to give your provider your NDIS number and your plan manager's details. Some services might need a service agreement or specific authorisation. Your plan manager can help explain what's needed.

Remember: Your plan manager acts as your financial administrator, but you remain in control of choosing your providers and approving services.