IFSP, IEP & 504 Plans
What Are These Plans?
IFSPs, IEPs, and 504 Plans are legal documents ensuring support for children with disabilities, differing mainly by age and needs. Children receiving developmental and behavioral services typically have support from one or more of these program/plans as well.
IFSP
Individualized Family Service Plan
Ages: 0-3 years old
Focus: Early intervention, family-centered outcomes, delivered in natural environments.
Governed By: Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). ​
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IEP
Individualized Education Program
Ages: 3-21 years old
Focus: Specialized instruction and related services to meet unique educational needs.
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Governed By: Part B of IDEA.
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504
504 Plan
Ages: K-12 students
Focus: Accommodations to remove barriers, allowing students to access the general curriculum alongside peers. Student might have an IEP as well.
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Governed By: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Who Issues These Plans?
In California, the Local Education Agency (LEA), usually the school district, issues IEPs and 504 Plans, coordinated by Special Education Local Plan Areas (SELPAs), with oversight from the California Department of Education (CDE). IFSPs (Individualized Family Service Plans) for infants/toddlers (under 3) are managed by Regional Centers, transitioning to school districts for IEPs at age 3, under the state's early intervention system. Please contact your local regional center or school district for more information.