You’ve got an NDIS plan! You’re ready to start achieving your goals, improving your independence, and living your best life. But what if you’re not using all the funding that’s been allocated? Whether it’s due to confusion, provider delays, lack of support, or just not knowing what’s possible, unspent NDIS funds are more common than you might think.
So, what actually happens when your NDIS funds go unused? And how can you make sure you’re getting the most out of your plan?
Let’s break it down.
Why Are NDIS Funds Often Left Unused?
There are a few common reasons participants don’t use all their NDIS funds:
- Lack of understanding about what’s included in their plan
- Delays in service bookings or provider waitlists
- No plan manager or support coordinator to help navigate the system
- Feeling overwhelmed by admin or choice
- Not knowing what services they’re actually entitled to
What Happens to NDIS Funds You Don’t Use?
You lose them when your plan ends. NDIS funding is not like savings in a bank account. You can’t save it to use later or access it outside of the allocated funding period. Any unspent funds won’t roll over to your next plan. Instead, your plan is reviewed, and your next funding package is decided, it is based on the support you actually used, not what you were originally allocated.
This can become a problem if you’re consistently underusing your funding. The NDIS may assume you no longer need that level of support and reduce your future budget.
How Unused Funds Can Affect Your Next Plan
An NDIS plan is typically reviewed annually (sometimes every two or three years), or when you specifically request a review or change of circumstance. During your review, the NDIS will decide how much funding you are allocated for the next period, using the data from your previous plan to inform their decision. If you haven’t used your full allocation, your next plan may be reduced, even if your needs haven’t changed.
That’s why it’s crucial to track your budget, understand your funding categories, and use your supports in a way that aligns with your goals. So you aren’t left with no budget for the support you need in the future.
5 Tips to Avoid Losing Your NDIS Funds
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Know Your Plan Inside Out
Understand what’s included in your Core, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports budgets, and what each one can be used for.
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Work with a Plan Manager or Support Coordinator
They can help you stay on track, find the right providers, and catch any instances of over or under-spending. They will ensure your budget is optimised and funding is used across the necessary supports, so you aren’t responsible for all the admin work.
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Set Clear Goals (and Review Them Often)
Link your funding to personal goals. If your needs change, update your goals and services accordingly. If your evolving needs require more funding, you can advocate for this during a plan review.
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Track Your Spending
Using tools like funding calculators and or budgeting apps can help you monitor your usage in real time. If you’re working with a Plan Manager, they will provide regular updates and monthly reports that outline your spending.
Don’t Let Your Supports Go to Waste
Remember, your NDIS plan is not just about funding, it’s about outcomes. It’s there to support your independence, build skills, and help you live the life you choose. Every dollar not used is a missed opportunity for growth, support, and progress.
Need Help Understanding or Using Your Plan?
At Achora, we specialise in NDIS Plan Management and Support Coordination that’s participant-first and outcome-focused. Whether you’re new to the NDIS or reviewing your current plan, we’re here to help you make the most of it, without the admin overload.
Let’s chat today about how to get your plan working for you.