To process NDIS participant invoices or requests for reimbursements, the NDIA need to have a clear process in place to ensure all invoices and reimbursements can be managed correctly. The NDIS requires that specific information be included on an invoice or reimbursement for it to be processed. One key piece of information needed are NDIS line items.
In this article, gain a better understanding of what a line item is, how to read one, and what to do if your support service fits into different categories or line items.
What is a ‘line item’?
An NDIS line item is the NDIA’s way of categorising support services. Essentially every support service that you receive will have a line item, or to put it simply – a code, attached to it. This code is then used by your service providers on your invoices to show the NDIA what support service they provided and by the NDIA to determine which of your support budgets pays for the support.
By understanding what line items are, it can help you to navigate the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits Guide (formerly known as the Price Guide) and assist you in understanding the support services you have been funded for as well as the price limits the NDIS has laid out for that service.
How to read a line item
Sometimes when things are written in a coded way, it can be a little daunting to try to read or understand it. NDIS line items are simple to understand once you know how they are created.
Line items are made up of two parts:
A brief description of the service provided
A unique numerical code
Here is an example taken from the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2021-2022:
Assistance with Self Care Activities – Night-Time Sleepover Support
NDIS Description of service: This support item provides a participant with assistance with, or supervision of, personal tasks of daily life where overnight support is needed, but the caregiver can sleep when not required to provide support. This support applies to any day of the week and on public holidays. This support item includes up to two hours of active supports provided to the participant for the duration of the period. Providers may claim for the third or additional hour at Saturday rates on weekdays, or at applicable rates on other days (Saturdays, Sundays or Public Holidays). This support item can be delivered to individual participants subject to the rules set out in this NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.
As well as direct service provision, this support item can be used to claim for:
Non-Face-to-Face Support Provision
Provider Travel
Short Notice Cancellations
Providers of this support can also claim for the costs of:
Provider Travel - Non-Labour Costs using support item 01_799_0107_1_1
Line item example:
Sometimes there might be two or more line items in one category. Here is another example taken from the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2021-2022 with two line items in one category:
Assistance with Household Tasks
NDIS Description of service: These support items enable participants to maintain their home environment. This may involve undertaking essential household tasks that the participant is not able to undertake. These support items can be delivered to individual participants subject to the rules set out in this NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.
As well as direct service provision, these support items can be used to claim for:
Non-Face-to-Face Support Provision
Provider Travel
Short Notice Cancellations
Providers of these supports can also claim for the costs of:
Provider Travel - Non-Labour Costs using support item 01_799_0120_1_1
Line item example:
What if a support falls into several line item categories?
Some NDIS supports may fall under different support categories (Core, Capital, Capacity Building) and line items. If this is the case, always choose the relevant line item from either your Capital or Capacity Building Support budget before choosing a line item under Core Supports. The reason for this is because both Capital and Capacity Building Supports are typically not flexible, whereas your Core Supports budget is flexible.
If you no longer have funding available in your Capital or Capacity Building Support budget, then you could use your Core Support budget.
We know that navigating the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits guide can be very complex, if you have any questions our friendly support team are always happy to help.
Read more about the benefits of working with an independent, professional Plan Manager. Alternatively, contact our team on 1300 322 273 or support@first2care.com.au.