Self-management gives you the most control over your NDIS funding. It also puts more administration in your hands. Neither part is as hard as it sounds once the rhythm is set.
The short version
- You pay the provider, then claim from your plan.
- Self-managed participants can choose a provider that is not NDIS-registered.
- Keep every invoice and service record together.
- Our from-rates are confirmed before the first visit.
What self-managed actually means
The NDIS pays your funding into your nominated bank account. When you buy a support, you pay the provider, then make a payment request through the NDIS portal. You are responsible for keeping records that show the support was delivered and paid for.
You can choose registered or non-registered providers when you self-manage. That gives you more choice. It also means you need to check that the provider can deliver what your plan says, and that the support is reasonable and necessary.
How paying us works
- We agree the support, the rate and the schedule in writing.
- We deliver the support and keep a service record of dates, hours and tasks.
- We invoice you with the detail your claim needs.
- You pay the invoice and make your claim through the portal.
We agree the invoicing rhythm before the first visit, so neither of us is chasing paperwork at the end of the month.
What to keep
- Invoices and receipts, with dates and amounts.
- Service records that show what was delivered and for how long.
- A copy of your plan and any review correspondence.
- Notes of any change you agreed with us.
Keep them together and keep them for at least five years unless your plan manager or the NDIS tells you otherwise. A folder, digital or paper, is enough. It does not need to be complicated.
Where people get stuck
Claims are usually held up by small things: an invoice that is too vague, service dates that do not match the record, or a support that is not clearly linked to the plan. A good provider makes the paperwork boring on purpose.
If a claim is rejected, ask the NDIS why before you change anything. Sometimes it is a missing detail, not a problem with the support itself.
Questions worth asking a self-managed provider
Can you invoice with this level of detail? What is your cancellation arrangement? Who do I call if a shift is missed? Can you provide a service agreement? A provider who cannot answer these clearly is telling you something.
Common questions
Can I use an unregistered provider when I self-manage?
Yes. Self-managed participants can choose registered or non-registered providers. Check that the support is reasonable and necessary and matches what is in your plan.
Do you need my NDIS number?
It helps us keep records consistent, but we can start a conversation without it. Bring it when you are ready.
How often will you invoice?
We agree the rhythm before the first visit. Some people prefer weekly, others fortnightly or monthly.
What if I need to pause the service?
Tell us as early as you can. We adjust the roster where we can and confirm any cancellation arrangement before it applies.
Can I change providers later?
Yes. Your plan is yours. We will hand over records cleanly and without drama.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. If you are worried about your health, call your GP. In an emergency, call 000.