NDIS Eligibility Reassessments – Your Essential Guide
We dive into the topic of NDIS eligibility reassessments and explain what it could mean for you.
Have you ever heard the phrase ‘NDIS eligibility reassessment’ and felt confused?
You are not alone.
While it might sound like a big deal, it is actually a normal part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and how the system supports participants over time.
In this handy guide, we detail what an eligibility reassessment is, why it occurs and what to do if you are impacted.
What Is an Eligibility Reassessment?
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), which implements and manages the NDIS, sometimes conducts checks to make sure participants still meet the rules required to be part of the NDIS.
This check is called an eligibility reassessment.
It does not mean the NDIS wants to take away your supports. It is just a way for it to see if anything has changed in your life and to make sure you are still getting the right kind of help.
Why Am I Hearing More About Eligibility Reassessments?
Eligibility reassessments are not new, but they have become a hot topic since changes were made to the NDIS Act, which began to take effect in October 2024.
As part of the new legislation, the NDIA now has a legal basis to request information from an NDIS participant to assist with the eligibility reassessment process and revoke access if that information is not provided.
However, the NDIS extended the timeframe that participants must provide additional information to support their eligibility reassessment from 28 to 90 days.
When Does a Reassessment Occur?
You will not be reassessed at random. An eligibility reassessment might occur if:
- You ask to leave the NDIS.
- There has been a big change in your life or health.
- You have not used your supports for a while.
- You are getting older, and your needs are different.
- The NDIA has new information that might affect your eligibility.
If the NDIA decides to undertake a reassessment, they will always tell you first and explain why.
What Do I Need to Do?
If your eligibility is being reviewed, the NDIA will ask you to share updated information. This might include:
- Reports from doctors or therapists.
- A letter from a support worker.
- Information about how your disability affects your daily life.
As mentioned earlier, you will usually have 90 days to provide this information. If you need more time, you can ask the NDIA for it.
Your NDIS plan manager can help explain what is needed and support you through the process, so you do not have to do it alone.
What if the NDIA Says I Am No Longer Eligible?
If the NDIA decides that you are no longer eligible, you will still receive your current supports for at least three months while you prepare for the change. In some cases, it might be longer.
You can also ask for the decision to be reviewed if you do not agree with it. Again, your NDIS plan manager can help you with this process.
Need Support?
The NDIS can be tricky to navigate. Eligibility reassessments simply add to the complexity.
Fortunately, help is at hand.
We excel at untangling the NDIS, and our customised NDIS support sets you up to maximise your plan and thrive.
Live your best life with Endeavour Foundation. We are in your corner.