IEP vs. 504 Plan

What’s the Difference and Which One Does Your Child Need?

When your child is struggling in school due to a learning difference, disability, or medical condition, it's natural to want the best support possible. Two key tools used in schools across the U.S. are IEPs and 504 Plans—but what’s the difference between the two?

Both can provide critical help, but they serve different purposes, follow different rules, and are suited to different needs. Let’s break it down.

What Is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a plan developed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It’s designed for students who qualify for special education services due to one of 13 specific disabilities, including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities (like dyslexia), and more.

Key Features of an IEP:

• Eligibility: Student must meet criteria for one of the disabilities listed in IDEA and need specialized instruction.

• Services: Includes special education and related services (like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling).

• Goals: Includes annual, measurable academic and functional goals tailored to the student’s unique needs.

• Team: Created by a team that includes parents, teachers, a special education provider, and school officials.

• Progress: The plan must be reviewed and updated at least once a year.

What Is a 504 Plan?

A 504 Plan is governed by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. It’s for students who have a disability that impacts a major life activity (like learning, walking, concentrating) but don’t require specialized instruction.

Key Features of a 504 Plan:

• Eligibility: Student must have a disability that substantially limits a major life activity, but may not need special education.

• Services: Provides accommodations (not special education), such as extended time on tests, preferential seating, or modified homework.

• Goals: No individualized academic goals required.

• Team: Typically created by a school team which may include the student’s general education teachers and a counselor or administrator.

• Review: Reviewed periodically, but there's no strict timeline like with an IEP.

IEP vs. 504: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	IEP	504 Plan
Governing Law	IDEA	Section 504
Who Qualifies	Students with specific disabilities needing special education	Students with any disability that impacts a major life activity
Services Provided	Special education + related services	Accommodations only
Individualized Goals	Yes	No
Legal Protections	Strong procedural safeguards	Fewer procedural requirements
Review Requirements	Reviewed annually	Reviewed periodically

Which One Is Right for Your Child?

The right plan depends on your child’s unique needs:

• If your child needs specialized instruction due to a disability that impacts learning, an IEP is likely the right path.

• If your child needs classroom accommodations but can learn in a general education setting without special instruction, a 504 Plan may be sufficient.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan is the first step in advocating for your child’s success. If you’re unsure where your child fits, you can request an evaluation from the school. You don’t need to have all the answers—just the commitment to getting your child the support they need.

Need more support navigating the process? Consider connecting with your school’s special education coordinator or a local education advocate.