IEP vs. 504 Plan: What's the Difference and Which Does Your Child Need?
Both plans help dyslexic students succeed in school — but they work very differently. This guide breaks down the key differences and helps you decide which to pursue.
Both IEPs and 504 plans are designed to help students with disabilities succeed in school — but they operate under different laws, offer different levels of support, and have different eligibility criteria.
What Is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is created under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). It provides specialized instruction — meaning your child is actually taught differently, not just given more time. IEPs include specific, measurable goals, regular progress reports, and a team of specialists.
What Is a 504 Plan?
A 504 Plan is created under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. It provides accommodations — changes to how a student accesses learning, without changing what's taught. Common accommodations include extended time, text-to-speech software, preferential seating, and oral testing.
Which Is Right for My Child?
If your child needs specialized reading instruction (like Orton-Gillingham), an IEP is usually more appropriate. If your child can keep up with grade-level content but needs accommodations to access it, a 504 may be sufficient.
Many families start with a 504 and later move to an IEP as needs become clearer.
Key Differences at a Glance
IEP: Specialized instruction + accommodations, specific measurable goals, annual review required.
504: Accommodations only, less formal documentation, broader eligibility.
Use Our Tools
Our School Toolkit has detailed guides for both IEP and 504 processes, and our Letter Generator can create a request letter for either plan.