| How Is an IEP Different from a 504 Plan? | ||
|---|---|---|
| IEP | 504 Plan | |
| Governing Law | Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) | Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 |
| Length from request to meeting? | From the date the parent makes the request for an evaluation and signs consent, the school has 60 days to complete evaluations and an additional 30 days to meet to determine eligibility. | There is no required timeline. |
| Purpose | Provides special education + related services | Provides accommodations |
| Who Qualifies? | Students with one of 13 qualifying disabilities and academic, emotional, or behavioral impact | Students with a disability that substantially limits a major life activity |
| Must show educational impact and need for specialized instruction | Does not require educational impact or special instruction | |
| Frequency? | Reviewed annually and re-evaluated every 3 years | Reviewed and updated yearly |
| Educational Impact Required? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Specialized Instruction? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Accommodations? | ✅ Yes (included in the IEP) | ✅ Yes |
| Testing Modifications? | ✅ Yes (as needed) | ✅ Yes (as needed) |
| Progress Monitoring? | ✅ Frequent, data-based updates on IEP goals | ❌ No formal monitoring required |
If your student has an IEP, they do not need a separate 504 Plan—all accommodations should be included within the IEP.
If your student has medical needs that require an Individualized Health Plan (IHP), include this plan as an official attachment to the 504 Plan or IEP. See more about IHPs below. For assistance on better understanding which is best for your child, please reach out to Disability Advocacy Solutions.
Disability Advocacy Solutions LLC 