10 Differences Between a 504 Plan and an IEP

Parents hear “504” and “IEP” a lot—and they can sound very similar at first. Both support students with disabilities, but they are not the same. Here are 10 important differences:

1. Different laws
An IEP is covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
A 504 Plan is covered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

2. Eligibility requirements are different
For an IEP, a student must meet one of IDEA’s disability categories and need specialized instruction.
For a 504 Plan, a student must have a disability that substantially limits a major life activity such as learning, concentrating, walking, or communicating.

3. IEPs include specialized instruction
An IEP can provide specially designed instruction, therapies, measurable goals, accommodations, and related services.
A 504 Plan usually provides accommodations and supports so the student can access school successfully.

4. The written plan looks very different
IEPs are detailed and include present levels, goals, service minutes, accommodations, and progress reporting.
504 Plans are usually shorter and focus on accommodations or access supports.

5. Annual goals
IEPs include measurable annual goals.
504 Plans typically do not require formal annual goals.

6. Progress monitoring
With an IEP, schools track progress toward goals and report progress regularly.
With a 504 Plan, schools may review accommodations, but progress reporting is usually less formal.

7. Related services
An IEP may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, or other related services when educationally necessary.
A 504 Plan may include supports and related aids, but not the same structured special education program.

8. Parent procedural protections are different
Both offer protections—but IDEA usually has more detailed procedures around consent, evaluations, meetings, and dispute resolution.

9. The meeting team may look different
IEP meetings often include special education staff, general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and parents.
504 meetings may be smaller depending on the school and student needs.

10. One is not “better” than the other
A 504 Plan isn’t “less important,” and an IEP isn’t always the right fit. The best support depends on your child’s needs:

• Does your child need accommodations to access school?

• Or do they need specialized instruction and individualized goals?

Both exist to help students access a free appropriate public education.

A parent reminder:
If your child doesn’t qualify for an IEP, it’s still okay to ask whether a 504 evaluation or plan should be considered. And if your child has a 504 but needs more support, it’s okay to ask whether an IDEA evaluation is appropriate.

Asking questions is part of advocating.

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