504 Plans vs. IEPs: Choosing the Right Support for Your Child

When a child has a disability that affects their ability to learn, schools can provide support through two different pathways: a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP). While both are designed to help students succeed in school, they are governed by different laws and provide different types of support. For parents, understanding the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP is essential to choosing the right support for their child. This guide will break down the key differences between these two plans and help you determine which is the most appropriate for your child’s needs.

Understanding Section 504 Plans

A 504 Plan is governed by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. To qualify for a 504 Plan, a student must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, speaking, walking, or breathing. The definition of disability under Section 504 is broader than the definition under IDEA, so a student who does not qualify for an IEP may still be eligible for a 504 Plan.

Examples of conditions that may be covered by a 504 Plan include:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Diabetes
• Food allergies
• Anxiety disorders
• Physical disabilities

A 504 Plan provides accommodations to help a student access the general education curriculum. These accommodations are designed to level the playing field, so that the student has an equal opportunity to succeed. The process for developing a 504 Plan is less formal than the process for developing an IEP.

Understanding IEPs

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal special education law. To qualify for an IEP, a student must have one of the 13 specific disability categories listed in IDEA and, as a result of that disability, need special education and related services. An IEP is a much more comprehensive and formal document than a 504 Plan.

An IEP provides both specialized instruction and accommodations. Specialized instruction is instruction that is specially designed to meet the unique needs of a student with a disability. An IEP also includes measurable annual goals, and the school is required to monitor the student’s progress toward those goals. In addition, an IEP may include related services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling.

Key Differences Between 504 Plans and IEPs

While both 504 Plans and IEPs are designed to support students with disabilities, there are a number of key differences between them:

Feature	504 Plan	IEP
Legal Foundation	Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973	Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Eligibility	Broader definition of disability	13 specific disability categories and need for special education
Services Provided	Accommodations	Specialized instruction, accommodations, and related services
Formality	Less formal	More formal and comprehensive
Review Requirements	Typically reviewed annually	Reviewed at least annually
Funding	No federal funding	Federal funding provided to states
Parental Rights	Fewer procedural safeguards	More extensive procedural safeguards

Making the Right Choice

The decision of whether to pursue a 504 Plan or an IEP should be based on a thorough assessment of your child’s needs. If your child needs accommodations to access the general education curriculum, but does not need specialized instruction, a 504 Plan may be sufficient. However, if your child needs specialized instruction to make progress in school, an IEP is necessary.

It is important to note that a child cannot have both a 504 Plan and an IEP. However, a child can transition from one to the other. For example, a child may start with a 504 Plan and then move to an IEP if their needs become more significant. Conversely, a child may start with an IEP and then move to a 504 Plan if they no longer need specialized instruction.

Advocating for the Appropriate Plan

If you believe your child needs a 504 Plan or an IEP, you should submit a written request to the school. The school will then conduct an evaluation to determine if your child is eligible. If you disagree with the school’s decision, you have the right to appeal.

Both 504 Plans and IEPs are valuable tools for supporting students with disabilities. By understanding the key differences between them, you can make an informed decision about which is the right choice for your child. The ultimate goal is to ensure that your child receives the support they need to succeed in school and in life.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a 504 plan include specialized instruction?

No, a 504 plan only provides accommodations. If a student needs specialized instruction, they will need an IEP.

Do colleges honor 504 plans and IEPs?

Colleges are required to provide accommodations to students with disabilities under Section 504. While the IEP does not follow a student to college, the documentation from the IEP can be used to support a request for accommodations in college.

Which plan is better for college preparation?

Both plans can help a student prepare for college. The best plan is the one that meets the student’s individual needs.

Can my child have a 504 plan in private school?

Private schools that receive federal funding are required to comply with Section 504. However, the requirements for private schools are not the same as the requirements for public schools.

How often are 504 plans reviewed?

504 plans are typically reviewed once a year, but they can be reviewed more often if needed.

References

Understood.org: The Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans
National Center for Learning Disabilities: IEPs vs. 504 Plans
Amherst Pediatrics: IEP vs. 504 Plan: What’s the Difference?
National Education Association: Differences Between a 504 Plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP)