How to Decline Services in an IEP
A Step-by-Step Parent Guide
At Falcon Sky Advocacy Group, we believe parents should feel confident in every decision they make for their child’s education including the decision to decline or stop services in an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) gives parents the right to say “yes” or “no” to special education and related services at any time. This guide walks you through the process in plain language, so you understand both your options and your rights.
Step 1 – Put Your Decision in Writing
If you decide to stop IEP services, the first step is to put your decision in writing.
Your letter or email should include:
Your child’s full name and date of birth.
A clear statement that you are declining or revoking consent for specific or all special education services.
The effective date for your decision.
Your signature and contact information.
Keep a copy for your records. Written communication creates a paper trail, which is essential if questions come up later.
📜 Law Reference: 34 C.F.R. § 300.300(b)(4) – Parents can revoke consent for special education and related services at any time.
Step 2 – Understand What Declining IEP Services Means
It’s important to know the difference between declining before services start and revoking after services have begun:
Before services start: The school cannot begin providing them.
After services have started: The school must stop all special education and related services once you revoke consent, but only after giving you written notice.
When services stop, your child’s IEP is no longer in effect. That means IDEA protections — like specialized instruction, related services, and certain discipline safeguards — also end.
📜 Law Reference: 34 C.F.R. § 300.300(b)(4)(ii) – Schools are not considered in violation of IDEA if they stop services after consent is revoked.
Step 3 – Expect a Prior Written Notice from the School
Before the school ends services, they must send you a Prior Written Notice (PWN).
This notice must explain:
What they will do in response to your request.
Why they are making that change.
When the change will happen.
The PWN is your official record of the school’s action and reasoning. Keep it with your IEP records.
📜 Law Reference: 34 C.F.R. § 300.503 – Prior Written Notice is required whenever a school proposes or refuses to change services.
Step 4 – Know the School Cannot Override Your Decision
If you decline IEP services or revoke consent, the school cannot use mediation or due process to force your child to receive them.
If you change your mind later, you can always request an evaluation and restart the IEP process. The school may need to re-evaluate your child before reinstating services.
📜 Law Reference: 34 C.F.R. § 300.300(b)(4)(i) – Consent is voluntary and may be revoked at any time.
Step 5 – Keep Records of Everything
Good documentation protects your child’s educational history. Keep copies of:
All letters, emails, and notices related to your decision.
The Prior Written Notice from the school.
Any meeting notes where this decision was discussed.
If you speak with school staff by phone or in person, follow up with a quick email summarizing what was discussed.
Key Takeaways
You have the legal right to stop IEP services at any time.
The school must provide Prior Written Notice before making changes.
You can request services again in the future if needed.
Always keep your communication in writing.
Conclusion
At Falcon Sky Advocacy Group, we’re here to help parents navigate every step of the IEP process — whether you’re starting services, adjusting them, or deciding they’re no longer the right fit for your child.
If you have questions about your specific situation, schedule a Discovery Call with us today. We’ll help you understand your options, your rights, and the best next steps for your child.
