Section 504: equal access at school and beyond
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act protects people with disabilities in any program that gets federal money, including public schools, colleges, hospitals, and housing.
This page is general information in plain language. It is not legal advice. For help with your own situation, contact one of the free helpers listed on this page.
At school
A 504 plan gives a student with a disability the accommodations they need to have equal access to learning. It is for students who do not need special teaching but do need changes, for example:
- Extra time on tests
- A quiet place to work or take tests
- Breaks, or movement during class
- Seating near the teacher
- Visual schedules or written directions
- Help with the cafeteria, bus, or field trips
Ask the school's 504 coordinator in writing for an evaluation.
Beyond school
Section 504 also applies to hospitals and clinics that take Medicare or Medicaid, public housing, colleges, and state agencies. A 2024 rule from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services strengthened 504 in health care, including accessible exam equipment and websites.
If the school says no
You can ask for a hearing with the school district, or file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights within 180 days. See Filing a complaint.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Laws, dollar amounts, and program rules change. Check with the agency named on this page before you make a decision.