---
title: What are your rights in the 504 plan process?
description: Kids with disabilities have legal rights in the 504 plan process. Read about the most important rights, including the right to a free appropriate public education.
slug: what-are-your-rights-in-the-504-plan-process
author: Andrew M.I. Lee, JD
reviewer: Kylah Torre
published: '2019-10-16T11:47:09.839Z'
thumbnail: https://cdn-images.understood.org/p0qf7j048i0q/1NGyLTZPE2DTu0deoRvtS6/5f5b331c6142e508ad8bf23f7d0a9e8d/G1060504664.jpg
source_url: https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-are-your-rights-in-the-504-plan-process
lang: en
---

# What are your rights in the 504 plan process?

If your child has a [504 plan](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-a-504-plan) or is being evaluated for one, you have legal rights. Here are the most important ones to know. 

## The right to free appropriate public education (FAPE)

Kids with disabilities have the right to a [free appropriate public education](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-and-isnt-covered-under-fape). The school must meet your child’s educational needs just as it meets the needs of other students.

## The right to accommodations and modifications

A 504 plan can include accommodations, which are changes in school and the classroom that allow your child to take part in learning. For example, to meet the needs of a child who struggles with writing, an accommodation might be a computer for typing. A 504 plan may also modify or change what your child is expected to learn.
 This is called a modification.

## The right to instruction and services

To give your child an education comparable to that of other students, a 504 plan may include specialized instruction. The plan can also provide related services, like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or even counseling.

## The right to notice

Schools must tell families about significant educational decisions that impact their kids. You have the right to know about things like identification, evaluation, and classroom placement.

## The right to challenge a school’s decision

If you disagree with a school’s decision about your child’s education, you have the right to challenge it. You can ask for a hearing where an impartial officer decides your case. You can also file a complaint with the federal Office for Civil Rights.

Learn the [steps to take to get a 504 plan for your child](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/get-504-plan-for-your-child). And read about your [options for resolving disagreements with the school about 504 plans](https://www.understood.org/en/articles/5-options-for-resolving-a-504-plan-dispute).

---

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