Section 504 Plan vs. IEP: What’s the Difference?
When your child needs extra support at school, you’ll probably hear the terms “504 Plan” and “IEP” thrown around. Both are legal ways to make sure kids with disabilities get what they need to learn, but they work a little differently. Let’s break it down in plain language so you know what’s what.
The Basics
A 504 Plan comes from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It’s a civil rights law, not a special education law. Basically, it says schools can’t discriminate against students with disabilities and must give them the accommodations they need to access learning. That might mean things like extra time on tests, seating near the front, or frequent breaks.
An IEP (Individualized Education Program), on the other hand, comes from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This is the special education law. If your child qualifies, they’ll get an IEP that includes not just accommodations, but also specific goals, special instruction, and sometimes related services like speech therapy or counseling.
Who Qualifies?
This is where the two really split.
504 Plan eligibility is broad. If your child has any physical or mental condition that “substantially limits” a major life activity—like learning, reading, or concentrating—they may qualify. ADHD, asthma, diabetes, anxiety, and lots of other conditions can all be covered.
IEP eligibility is narrower. To get an IEP, a student must fall into one of 13 disability categories defined by IDEA (like autism, learning disabilities, or emotional disturbance) and need special education services to succeed.
What Do They Include?
504 Plans are usually a list of accommodations. They help level the playing field but don’t change what your child is learning. Think: “same class, but with supports.”
IEPs go further. They can change how and sometimes what a child learns. An IEP has annual goals, specialized instruction, services (like occupational therapy), and progress tracking. It’s reviewed every year and updated as needed.
How Formal Are They?
A 504 Plan is typically less formal. The school team meets, writes it up, and makes sure teachers follow it.
An IEP is a formal, legally binding document. It’s developed by a whole team—including parents, general and special ed teachers, a school administrator, and sometimes service providers. There are lots of safeguards built in for parents if disagreements happen.
Funding and Services
Here’s a big one:
504 Plans don’t come with extra federal funding. Schools cover the cost locally and are expected to provide “reasonable” accommodations.
IEPs are tied to federal special education funding. Schools receive money through IDEA to help cover specialized services.
Where the Services Happen
Both are meant to give kids access to learning alongside their peers as much as possible.
504 Plans: Almost always within the general education classroom.
IEPs: Students can also be in general ed, but if they need more support, they might spend part of the day in special education settings. IDEA requires the “least restrictive environment,” so schools must justify any pull-outs.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the simplest way to look at it:
A 504 Plan removes barriers so kids can access the same classroom as everyone else.
An IEP not only removes barriers but also adds specialized teaching and services to help a child make progress.
Both plans protect your child’s right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The one that’s right for your child depends on whether they need accommodations only—or more intensive, individualized instruction.
Footnotes
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.
National Center for Learning Disabilities. (2024). IEPs vs. 504 Plans. Retrieved from ncld.org
NEA. (2022). Differences between a 504 Plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Retrieved from nea.org
Verywell Family. (2023). What Is a 504 Plan? Retrieved from verywellfamily.com
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights. (2021). Parent and Educator Resource Guide to Section 504.