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Webpage Accessibility Guide

Overview

Webpages, unless classified as archived, must conform to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1 (Level A and Level AA).

Table of Contents

Accessible Webpages Checklist

  • WCAG. Webpages should conform to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1 (Level A and Level AA). Common best practices include:
  • Headings. Each webpage should have a proper heading structure. This means having one (and only one) heading level 1 (H1) and ensuring headings structured logically (H2 comes after H1, H3 comes after H2, etc.). Headings should not be used for decorative purposes only.
  • Color contrast. The color of text and other meaningful information needs to be distinct from the background color. Yellow text on a white background, for example, is extremely difficult to read. The higher the color contrast, the better. Use WebAIM’s Color Contrast Checker to check the contrast between two colors.
  • Alternative Text (or Alt Text) is needed for all non-decorative multimedia, including images, social media posts, graphs, charts, flyers, banners, and infographics. Screen readers (a type of assistive technology) helps individuals with limited or no vision understand what the multimedia is by reading the alt text out loud. Your content management system (CMS) should provide a simple way to provide alt text for multimedia. Learn how to write effective alt text.
  • Links. Links should describe their destination and/or purpose. Do not repeat information in text or link. For example, do not insert links like “read more” or “click here.” Never underline text unless it is a link.
  • Plain Language. Write in a way that is clear and easy to understand. Organize content for easy scanning and understanding. Your writing should match Federal Plain Language Guidelines.
  • Lists. Use ordered lists (e.g., numbered lists) when items need to be in a specific order (such as step-by-step instructions). Use unordered lists (like bullets) when the sequence matters less (for example, lists of people). Lists organize your content, both visually and practically. It also helps assistive technology navigate your webpage.
  • Avoid PDFs. Webpages are preferred over PDFs because webpages are easier to make accessible. Convert PDF content into a standard webpage when possible. Do not post PDFs on websites or social media.

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Archived Web Content

Web content that meets all four of the following points are not required to need to meet WCAG 2.1, Level AA:

  • The content was created before the date the state or local government must comply with this rule, or reproduces paper documents or the contents of other physical media (audiotapes, film negatives, and CD-ROMs for example) that were created before the government must comply with this rule, AND
  • The content is kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping, AND
  • The content is kept in a special area for archived content, AND
  • The content has not been changed since it was archived.

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Additional Resources

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