Compliable
COMPLIANCE

ADA Web Compliance

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make their websites accessible to people with disabilities. Learn what you need to know.

ADA

Americans with Disabilities Act

What is ADA compliance?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. While the ADA doesn't explicitly mention websites, courts have increasingly ruled that the ADA applies to digital spaces as well.

To comply with ADA requirements for websites, businesses typically need to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) 2.1 Level AA standards. This means ensuring your website is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users.

ADA lawsuits are increasing

In 2023, there were over 4,000 web accessibility lawsuits filed in the United States. Businesses of all sizes are being targeted, with the average settlement ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Taking proactive steps to make your website accessible can help protect your business from legal action.

ADA web accessibility requirements

Based on WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines, here are the key requirements for ADA compliance.

Provide text alternatives for non-text content
Provide captions and alternatives for multimedia
Create content that can be presented in different ways
Make it easier for users to see and hear content
Make all functionality available from a keyboard
Give users enough time to read and use content
Do not use content that causes seizures
Help users navigate and find content
Make text readable and understandable
Make content appear and operate in predictable ways
Help users avoid and correct mistakes
Maximize compatibility with assistive technologies

Check your ADA compliance

Run a free accessibility scan to see how your website measures up against ADA requirements.