Ensuring that a website is ADA compliant is no longer optional. With legal requirements evolving and accessibility lawsuits increasing, businesses must take proactive steps to create digital spaces that are inclusive for everyone. An ADA compliant website follows the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and aims to provide equal access to digital content for individuals with disabilities. This guide outlines the steps to make a website ADA compliant in 2025 and why compliance is critical for businesses.
What is ADA Compliance?
ADA compliance refers to the adherence of a website to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Although the ADA was initially written for physical spaces, it now applies to websites, requiring digital content to be accessible to people with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments.
Daniel from EqualWeb states, “Many businesses overlook web accessibility until they face legal consequences. Proactive compliance not only protects against lawsuits but also improves user experience and brand reputation.”
Steps to Make a Website ADA Compliant
Conduct an Accessibility Audit
The first step in achieving ADA compliance is to conduct an accessibility audit. This involves testing a website against WCAG 2.2 standards to identify barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from fully engaging with the content.
Implement Keyboard Navigation
A compliant website must be fully navigable using only a keyboard. This ensures that users who cannot use a mouse can still access all functionality, including menus, buttons, and forms.
Add Alternative Text (Alt-Text) for Images
Screen readers rely on alt-text to describe images to visually impaired users. Every non-decorative image must have descriptive alt-text that conveys the purpose of the image.
Ensure Color Contrast Meets WCAG Standards
Poor color contrast can make text unreadable for individuals with visual impairments. Websites should follow WCAG 2.2 guidelines for contrast ratios to enhance readability.
Provide Transcripts and Captions for Multimedia
All videos should include closed captions and transcripts to accommodate users with hearing impairments. This also benefits users who prefer to consume content without sound.
Optimize Forms for Accessibility
Forms should include clear labels, error identification, and instructions to assist users with disabilities in completing fields correctly.
Test with Assistive Technologies
After implementing accessibility improvements, websites should be tested using screen readers, speech recognition software, and other assistive technologies to ensure usability.
The Legal Risks of Non-Compliance
Failure to make an ADA compliant website can lead to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage. The number of web accessibility lawsuits has risen significantly in recent years, with companies of all sizes being targeted. Proactive compliance not only mitigates legal risks but also improves user engagement and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Achieving ADA compliance is not just about legal requirements – it’s about creating an inclusive digital space for all users. By following WCAG guidelines, optimizing website functionality, and conducting regular audits, businesses can ensure their websites are accessible to everyone. EqualWeb specializes in hybrid accessibility solutions that combine AI-driven automation with expert manual remediation, making compliance easier and more effective.
FAQ
- What does ADA compliance mean for websites?
ADA compliance ensures that websites are accessible to people with disabilities, following guidelines such as WCAG to remove digital barriers.
- Who needs to make their website ADA compliant?
All businesses, organizations, and government entities that provide public services online must comply with ADA regulations.
- What are the consequences of non-compliance?
Non-compliance can result in lawsuits, financial penalties, and damage to brand reputation due to inaccessibility.
- How often should a website be tested for ADA compliance?
Regular audits, at least once a year, help maintain accessibility as websites update content and functionality.
- What is the difference between WCAG and ADA compliance?
WCAG provides specific technical standards for accessibility, while ADA compliance is a broader legal requirement that mandates accessibility in digital spaces.
- Can automated tools fully ensure ADA compliance?
Automated tools help identify common issues, but manual audits and remediation are necessary for full compliance and usability.