Switching plan managers — or moving from agency management to plan management — can feel daunting. But the reality is that the process is straightforward, it can happen at any time, and most families wonder why they didn’t make the change sooner.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Agency management vs plan management: a quick recap
Under agency management, the NDIA manages your funding directly and you are limited to NDIS-registered providers. There’s no choice about who handles your finances — the NDIA does it all automatically.
Plan management sits in between: a registered plan manager handles all the financial administration on your behalf, but you retain full choice over which providers you use — both registered and unregistered. You get the flexibility of self-management without the administrative burden.
Can I switch at any time?
Yes. You do not need to wait for your plan review to switch plan managers, or to move from agency management to plan management. There is one exception: if your current plan doesn’t include funding for plan management under the Improved Life Choices category, you’ll need to request this at your next review.
If you’re not sure whether your plan includes plan management funding, check your plan document or contact us — we can help you work it out quickly.
Step 1: Choose your new plan manager
Take some time with this decision. A good plan manager should:
- Communicate clearly and respond promptly
- Process invoices quickly — 2 business days is the benchmark to ask about
- Provide real-time budget visibility so you always know where you stand
- Have experience with your type of supports
- Treat you like a person, not a file number
Step 2: Sign a service agreement
Once you’ve chosen a plan manager, you’ll sign a service agreement. This is a straightforward document that confirms the services they’ll provide and the relevant NDIS pricing. Your new plan manager should walk you through this clearly — there should be no surprises.
Step 3: Notify your current plan manager
If you’re switching from another plan manager (not from agency management), you’ll need to give notice as outlined in your existing service agreement. Most agreements require a short notice period — typically two to four weeks. Your new plan manager can help you manage this transition smoothly.
Step 4: Let your providers know
Your new plan manager will give you a simple template to send to your support providers. It tells them where to direct invoices going forward. This is usually all that’s needed — providers deal with plan manager changes regularly and know the process well.
Step 5: The NDIS portal is updated
Your new plan manager will update the NDIS portal to reflect the change. From this point, everything flows through them. You don’t need to do anything further on the admin side.
What about switching mid-plan from agency management?
If you’re moving from agency management to plan management mid-plan, the process involves contacting the NDIA to request the change to your plan. Your plan manager can assist with this — it’s a standard process and usually takes just a few days to complete.
Are there any reasons not to switch?
For most families, the answer is no. Plan management is fully funded by the NDIS, gives you significantly more choice over your providers, and removes the financial admin from your life entirely. The most common reason people stay with agency management is simply not realising they have a choice — or not knowing how easy the switch is.
We make the transition simple
At Detailed Plan Management, we guide you through the entire transition process. You won’t be navigating the paperwork alone — we’ll be with you from signing the agreement to your first invoice being processed.
If you’re ready to make the switch, or just want to ask a few questions first, reach out using the form below. We’re happy to chat with no obligation.