Section 504 vs IEP Comparison
Both Section 504 and IEPs provide accommodations for students with disabilities, but they're governed by different laws, have different eligibility criteria, and provide different levels of support. Use this tool to understand the difference and get a recommendation for your child's situation.
| Category | Section 504 | IEP (IDEA) |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (civil rights law) | Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) |
| Eligibility | Any disability that substantially limits a major life activity | 13 specific disability categories; must need special education services |
| Cost to School | No extra funding — accommodations only | Additional federal funding; specialized services required |
| Services Provided | Accommodations and modifications only | Specialized instruction + related services (OT, speech, counseling) |
| Placement | General education class (with accommodations) | Least restrictive environment — may include special education class |
| Who Develops It | School 504 coordinator + team | Multidisciplinary IEP team including parents |
| Review Frequency | Annually recommended; no legal requirement | At least annually; triennial re-evaluation required |
| Dispute Resolution | Office for Civil Rights (OCR) complaint | Due process hearing + mediation + OCR |
| Post-Secondary | Continues in college (institutions must accommodate) | Ends at high school graduation or age 22 |
| Examples | Extended time on tests, preferential seating, breaks | Reading specialist, occupational therapy, speech therapy |
Get a Recommendation
A student can have both a 504 and an IEP — but once an IEP is in place, the 504 is usually subsumed into it. If you believe your child is being denied appropriate services, contact a parent advocate or special education attorney. Parent Training and Information (PTI) Centers in each state provide free advocacy support.