Self-managed vs plan-managed
The three plan-management options compared — who each suits, and how to switch.
5 min read · Updated May 2026
Your three options
How your NDIS funding gets used is set by your plan management option. There are three, and a single plan can mix them across different funding categories.
Agency-managed
The NDIA holds your funding and pays providers directly. You can only use providers that are registered with the NDIS Commission. No paperwork for you, but the least flexibility on who you can use. Inaro isn't currently registered, so we can't be paid through this option — you'd need to be on a plan-managed or self-managed arrangement to book with us.
Plan-managed
A plan manager holds your funding for you. They pay your providers, keep the records, and send you a monthly statement. You can use registered or unregistered providers (like Inaro). Plan-management is funded separately and doesn't come out of your support budget — you just have to ask for it in your plan.
Self-managed
You hold and use the funding yourself. Most flexibility (any provider, no NDIS price caps), most admin. See Managing your NDIS funds for the detail.
Quick comparison
| Agency-managed | Plan-managed | Self-managed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who handles the money | NDIA | A plan manager | You |
| Who can you book | Registered providers only | Registered and unregistered | Registered and unregistered |
| NDIS price limits apply | Yes | Yes | No — you can negotiate |
| You do the paperwork | No | No | Yes — invoices, claims, records |
| Comes out of your support funding | No | No (separately funded) | No |
Who each one tends to suit
- Agency-managed — people who want zero admin and are comfortable choosing from the registered-provider list.
- Plan-managed — most people. You get the choice that comes with using any provider, without the admin of self-managing. Often the easiest place to start.
- Self-managed — people who want maximum flexibility and price control, and who don't mind running the numbers.
Working with Inaro
Inaro works with self-managed and plan-managed participants. If you're plan-managed, we invoice your plan manager; if you're self-managed, we invoice you and you claim it back through myplace.
If you're agency-managed and want to use Inaro, you can talk to the NDIA or a Local Area Coordinator about changing to plan-management at your next plan review (or sooner, if your circumstances change).
Switching between options
You can change your plan-management arrangement at a plan review — or earlier with a Plan Variation. Talk to your Local Area Coordinator, support coordinator or the NDIA directly.
Important
This is general information — not legal, financial or medical advice. NDIS rules change from time to time. Always confirm details with your plan manager, support coordinator, or the NDIA directly.
Related guides
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme in plain English — who it's for, what it funds, and how plans work.
Read article →
Getting startedAre you eligible for the NDIS?
The eligibility criteria, the Access Request, and what to do if your application is knocked back.
Read article →
FundingManaging your NDIS funds (self-managed)
What self-managing means in practice — paying providers, keeping records, and getting the most out of your funding.
Read article →
Looking for support?
Inaro employs its own support workers — for people who want to choose who supports them.