504 Plan vs. IEP: Which One Does Your Child Need?
Two different levels of support, two different legal frameworks. Here's how to tell which one fits your child.
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Two different levels of support, two different legal frameworks. Here's how to tell which one fits your child after a dyslexia screening.
A 504 plan provides accommodations so your child can access the general education curriculum. It is based on civil rights law and does not require specialized instruction.
An IEP is a legally binding document under IDEA that includes specialized instruction, measurable goals, and related services. It is designed for students who need more than accommodations alone.
Many families receive a screening letter before anyone mentions either plan. Knowing the difference helps you ask better questions at your next meeting.
If your child only needs extended time, audiobooks, or preferential seating, a 504 may be enough. If they need structured reading intervention with progress monitoring, an IEP is often more appropriate.
State rules vary on how schools initiate evaluations. Document what you have been told in writing and request timelines in plain language.
Bring this guide to your meeting and note which supports your child is already receiving versus what still needs to be formalized.
What do my child's screening results actually mean?
We'll explain what the results mean in plain language — and tell you exactly what to do next.
Know your rights in your state
Dyslexia screening laws and family rights vary by state. Select yours to see what applies where you live.
Free resources you can take to school.
Printable checklists and quick-reference guides designed for the meetings that matter most.
Select your state to see printable materials you can take with you to school, PTA, and meetings.