Overspend alerts help you stay on top of your NDIS funding by notifying you early, before a small issue becomes a big problem.
At Provider Choice, these smart alerts are triggered when we notice you spending 10% or more above your expected spend. They’re one of several tools we offer to make managing your budget easier and give you confidence throughout your NDIS journey.
Many participants and nominees tell us that navigating their NDIS budget can feel overwhelming. For some, it’s the first time managing a large amount of funding. Others may feel their budget is tight and are trying to stretch it further. Whatever your situation, having the right tools and support makes a big difference.
Budgets excluded from overspend alerts
To keep notifications relevant (and avoid unnecessary alerts), some funding types are not included:
- Flexible Core budgets: These are combined and treated as one budget.
- Capital Supports: Assistive Technology and Home Modifications are usually spent upfront rather than over a period of time, so they are excluded.
- Agency-managed or self-managed supports: Provider Choice doesn't have access to these budgets, so these won't trigger alerts from us.
- Small budgets: Any budget under $2,000 is excluded.
- PACE plans with monthly funding: Monthly funding periods are already a strong safeguard against overspending, so alerts are not required.
Why overspend alerts matter
Overspend is much easier to manage when caught early. Once it grows, you have fewer options for adjusting your supports. Early alerts give you the maximum choice and control over your next steps, long before you’re at risk of running out of funding.
It’s also important to know that the NDIS won’t review your plan just because you’ve run out of funding. If you’re concerned your funding won’t last, you’ll need to request a review with plenty of time. Staying on top of alerts helps ensure you’re never caught off guard.
What to do when you receive the alert
The alert is a prompt to check in on your funding. Acting early means you can make small adjustments before things become stressful. If you were not aware that you’re overspending you can:
- Review your budget in your Provider Choice dashboard
- Chat to your Support Coordinator, if you have one
- Book a Guru session with our experts to review your spending and understand what’s going on
In some cases, overspend can be temporary, eg: after a short-term respite stay or a period of increased support. If you already know the cause and have a plan to scale back, then no immediate action is needed. Just keep an eye on your Provider Choice portal to make sure things return to normal.
You’re not alone
One of the biggest benefits of plan management is having extra tools and extra support. Overspend alerts are simply an early detection system to help you take action before things become serious.
If you’re unsure about what to do next or want personalised guidance, book a free Guru session. Our team can help you understand your funding, make confident decisions and stay in control of your NDIS budget.
