Is NDIS Means-Tested and How Does Your Income Affect Support

The NDIS is not means-tested. This means your income and assets do not change your eligibility or the amount of funding you receive.

TL;DR: Wealth and the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was built to help all Australians with a permanent disability. Unlike many other government payments, it does not look at your bank account. You can own a home, have a high-paying job, or have large savings and still get full NDIS support.

The focus of the NDIS is on your needs, not your money. It provides funding for "reasonable and necessary" supports that help you live an ordinary life. Whether you are wealthy or have a low income, the NDIS provides the same level of care based on your disability. We help our clients understand their rights so they can focus on their goals without financial worry.

Is the NDIS Income or Asset Tested?

The NDIS is not income tested and it is not asset tested. You do not need to show the government your pay slips or tax returns to join the scheme.

This is different from most other government help because:

• Your savings and investments do not count against you.

• The value of your family home does not matter.

• Any money you inherit will not stop your funding.

• Your partner's income does not change your plan.

This rule exists to encourage people with disabilities to work and save money. The government wants you to be as independent as possible.

NDIS vs. the Disability Support Pension (DSP)

It is very common to confuse the NDIS with the Disability Support Pension. They are two very different programmes.

Here is how they differ:

• The NDIS: This is for services and equipment. It is handled by the NDIA. It is not means-tested.

• The DSP: This is a cash payment from Centrelink to help with living costs. It is means-tested.

If you start a job and earn a lot of money, your DSP payments might go down or stop. However, your NDIS funding for therapy, wheelchairs, or support workers will stay the same. You can learn more about the pension on the Services Australia website.

Can I Have a Job While on the NDIS?

Yes, you can work as much as you like while receiving NDIS support. In fact, the NDIS often provides funding to help you find and keep a job.

The NDIS can fund things like:

• Training and skills development for work.

• Support workers to help you at your workplace.

• Special equipment or technology for your job.

• Transport help to get you to your office.

Your income from work will never reduce your NDIS budget. This is why many people use the NDIS to build a career and become more active in their community.

What Are Ordinary Living Expenses?

Even though the NDIS is not means-tested, it does not pay for everything. You are still responsible for "ordinary living expenses."

The NDIS expects you to pay for these things with your own money:

• Rent or mortgage payments.

• Groceries and household bills like electricity.

• Standard clothing and entertainment.

• Gym memberships or movie tickets.

The NDIS only pays for things that are directly related to your disability. For example, they will not pay for your food, but they might pay for a support worker to help you cook your meals. This is part of their reasonable and necessary rules.

Does Private Health Insurance Affect NDIS?

Your private health insurance does not change your eligibility for the NDIS. However, the two systems sometimes work together.

The NDIS is usually the "funder of last resort." This means if your health insurance or Medicare can pay for a service, they should do it first.

• Medicare usually pays for doctors and hospital stays.

• Private insurance might pay for some dental or physio work.

• The NDIS pays for the disability supports that the health system does not cover.

Having a high level of private insurance will not make your NDIS plan smaller. It just gives you more options for your healthcare.

Support for Financial Independence in the NT and WA

We focus on helping participants in the Northern Territory and Western Australia reach their full potential. Many people in these areas are moving into Supported Independent Living for the first time.

We help you manage your budget so you can:

• Save your personal income for your future goals.

• Use your NDIS funding for 24/7 care and therapy.

• Build a life where you are in control of your money.

Our team understands that financial security is a big part of mental health. We provide Psychosocial Support that builds your confidence in managing your own life.

Frequently Asked Questions About NDIS and Money

Do I have to pay tax on my NDIS funding?

No, NDIS funding is not considered taxable income. You do not need to list it on your tax return. It is money meant for your care, not a personal profit.

Will my inheritance stop my NDIS?

No, receiving an inheritance will not affect your NDIS plan. While it might change your Centrelink payments, your NDIS support is based only on your disability needs.

Does the NDIS pay for my rent?

Generally, no. The NDIS does not pay for standard rent. However, if you have very high support needs, you might be eligible for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) funding.

Can I get NDIS if I am self-employed?

Yes, many NDIS participants run their own small businesses. Your business income will not reduce your disability support funding.

Do I need to tell the NDIS if I get a pay rise?

No, you do not need to report your income or a pay rise to the NDIS. They only need to know if your disability needs change or if you move to a new house.