At Peasy Plan Management, we believe in empowering you with knowledge. Understanding how to identify and avoid scams is crucial for protecting yourself, your NDIS funds, and ensuring you receive the genuine support you need. This post will highlight some common NDIS scams and provide practical tips to help you stay safe.
Common NDIS Scams to Watch Out For
It’s important to be aware of the different tactics scammers might use. Here are some common NDIS scams to be vigilant about:
Fake NDIS Representatives: Scammers may call, email, or send you text messages pretending to be from the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) or a registered provider. They might ask for your personal information, NDIS plan details, bank account information, or even request upfront payments for “registration fees” or “special offers.” Remember, the NDIA will never ask for your bank details over the phone or request upfront payments.
Unsolicited Offers and High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of individuals or companies contacting you out of the blue, offering services or equipment that you haven’t requested. They might use high-pressure tactics, urging you to sign up immediately or risk missing out on a “limited-time offer.” Genuine providers will usually provide information and allow you time to consider your options.
Demands for Upfront Payments or Cash: Legitimate NDIS providers will typically claim payment through the NDIS portal after services have been delivered, especially if you have plan management. Be suspicious of anyone demanding large upfront payments or requesting cash payments directly.
Requests for Your myGov Login Details: Your myGov account provides access to sensitive information, including your NDIS plan. Never share your myGov username or password with anyone. Legitimate providers or the NDIA will never ask for these details.
Promises of Guaranteed Funding or Services: Scammers might promise guaranteed increases in your NDIS funding or access to specific services if you pay them a fee or provide personal information. The NDIA assesses funding based on individual needs, and no external party can guarantee specific outcomes.
Fake Invoices or Billing Errors: Be diligent in reviewing your invoices and statements. Scammers may send fake invoices for services not received or inflate the cost of services. If you have a plan manager like Peasy Plan Management, we help you track your funding and identify any discrepancies.
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Here are some crucial steps you can take to protect yourself from NDIS scams:
- Be skeptical of unsolicited contact
- Verify credentials
- Don’t pay upfront or in cash
- Take your time and don’t feel pressured to make immediate decisions
- Review invoices and statements carefully
- Report suspicious activity (to the NDIA Scam Response Team or to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, ACCC)
How Peasy Plan Management Can Help
As your dedicated NDIS Plan Manager, Peasy Plan Management plays a crucial role in protecting your NDIS funds. We:
- Review all invoices for accuracy and legitimacy before processing payments
- Provide you with clear and easy-to-understand statements of your funding
- Act as a point of contact if you have any concerns about suspicious invoices or requests
- Educate our participants about potential risks and how to stay safe
Stay Informed
Protecting yourself from NDIS scams requires vigilance and awareness. By understanding the common tactics used by scammers and following these preventative measures, you can safeguard your NDIS funding and ensure you receive the quality supports you deserve.
If you ever have any doubts or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to Peasy Plan Management. We are here to support you on your NDIS journey and help you navigate it with confidence and security.
Resources
NDIS, What Are Scams? https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/working-providers/what-are-scams
NDIS, How To report Fraud. https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/how-report-fraud
Services Australia, NDIS Scam Messages. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/national-disability-insurance-scheme-ndis-and-centrelink-scam-messages
ACCC, Scam Watch. https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/