If you’ve ever sat in a school meeting and heard terms like “IEP” and “504 Plan” thrown around without clear explanations—you’re not alone.
As both a teacher and a parent of a child with special needs, I’ve had to explain (and learn) the difference from both sides of the table. And I’ll be honest: it’s confusing at first.
So let’s break it down, clearly and simply—so you can feel confident knowing what supports are right for your child.
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What Is an IEP?
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a formal plan developed for a student who qualifies for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
It’s designed to support students whose disability impacts their ability to access the general education curriculum without specialized instruction and services.
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What Is a 504 Plan?
A 504 Plan falls under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act—a civil rights law. It’s for students who don’t require special education, but do need accommodations to access learning.
It supports students with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit a major life activity (like learning, seeing, walking, or concentrating).
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Who Qualifies?
- IEP: Students must meet specific eligibility criteria in one of 13 IDEA disability categories and require specially designed instruction.
- 504 Plan: Students must have a disability that substantially limits a major life activity, but they do not require special education.
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Key Differences (At a Glance):
IEP 504 Plan
Law IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Purpose Specialized instruction + related services Access to learning through accommodations
Eligibility Requires formal evaluation & eligibility under IDEA Broader definition of disability
Plan Content Present levels, measurable goals, services, progress tracking Accommodations only
Team Includes special ed teacher, gen ed teacher, parent, CST, etc. Usually includes teachers + school staff
Parent Rights Extensive procedural safeguards Fewer legal protections, but still formal
Review Timeline Reviewed annually, reevaluated every 3 years Reviewed as needed (often annually)
So… Which One Does My Child Need?
If your child needs specialized instruction, therapy (speech, OT, PT), or structured goals—they may qualify for an IEP.
If your child needs adjustments in the classroom like extra time on tests, preferred seating, or a medical plan—but doesn’t need special education—they may benefit from a 504 Plan.
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What I Want Parents to Know
It’s okay not to know the difference at first.
It’s okay to ask questions.
And it’s okay to change directions if your child’s needs change.
Every child is different. The important thing is making sure they have the right support at the right time.
