Raising a child with special needs often comes with extra expenses, but many parents are surprised to learn that some school-related services should not come out of their own pockets. Federal law requires public schools to provide eligible students with the support they need to receive an appropriate education, yet confusion over what schools must cover remains common. As a result, some families unknowingly pay for services that should be provided at no cost through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other approved accommodations. Understanding where your financial responsibility ends can help you protect both your child’s education and your family’s budget.