In today’s digital-first world, your website is often your brand’s front door. But if it’s not accessible, you could be shutting out millions of users—and possibly facing legal trouble. Ensuring ADA compliance is about more than just checking boxes; it’s about building a digital space that works for everyone.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make your website ADA compliant, including legal background, actionable steps, tools, and best practices.
What Is ADA Website Compliance?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law passed in 1990 to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities. While originally focused on physical locations like buildings and public transportation, the digital era has led to the expectation that websites also comply.
ADA and Digital Accessibility
Although the ADA doesn’t directly mention websites, courts have consistently ruled that websites for businesses considered “public accommodations” (such as restaurants, hotels, e-commerce stores, and educational institutions) must be accessible to users with disabilities.
Why ADA Website Compliance Matters
Legal Protection
Non-compliance can result in lawsuits, financial penalties, and damaged brand reputation. Over the past few years, ADA-related lawsuits regarding inaccessible websites have surged.
Inclusivity and Ethics
Accessibility is a core part of digital ethics. Over 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. lives with a disability. ADA compliance ensures you’re not unintentionally excluding anyone from accessing your services or content.
Business and SEO Benefits
ADA-compliant websites are generally more user-friendly, better optimized for search engines, and offer superior mobile usability. This leads to improved user engagement and potentially more conversions.
Key Guidelines for ADA Website Compliance
The global standard for web accessibility is the ADA Website compliant Guidelines (WCAG), maintained by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Most compliance goals align with WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
Understanding the POUR Principles
The WCAG guidelines are built around four core principles, abbreviated as POUR:
Perceivable
- Provide alt text for images
- Offer transcripts for audio
- Ensure text is visible and content is adaptable
Operable
- Enable keyboard navigation
- Avoid content that flashes rapidly
- Make menus and buttons accessible
Understandable
- Use clear and consistent language
- Help users avoid and correct input errors
- Structure content with proper HTML elements
Robust
- Design for compatibility with assistive tech
- Use valid HTML and ARIA roles
- Test across various browsers and devices
Steps to Make Your Website ADA Compliant
1. Run an Accessibility Audit
Start by checking the current state of your site. Use automated tools or manual testing to find accessibility issues. Popular tools include:
- WAVE
- Axe DevTools
- Lighthouse
2. Use Semantic HTML
Structure your content with proper semantic elements such as <nav>, <header>, <main>, and <footer>. Use heading tags (<h1>, <h2>, etc.) in the correct order to organize content clearly.
3. Add Descriptive Alt Text
All non-decorative images need meaningful alternative text. Alt text should describe what the image is conveying, not just what it looks like.
4. Make It Keyboard-Friendly
Your website must be fully usable with a keyboard. Test navigation using only the Tab, Shift+Tab, and Enter keys.
5. Include Captions and Transcripts
Videos must have captions, and audio-only content should come with transcripts. This helps users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
6. Ensure Good Color Contrast
Text should be readable against background colors. Aim for a minimum 4.5:1 contrast ratio. Use tools like the WebAIM Color Contrast Checker.
7. Improve Forms for Accessibility
Forms should include clearly associated labels, visible focus indicators, and helpful error messages. Don’t rely solely on placeholder text.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using color alone to convey information (e.g., red for error)
- Forgetting alt text on key visuals
- Not labeling form fields
- Using JavaScript widgets that don’t support screen readers
- Skipping mobile and touch accessibility testing
ADA Website Compliance Tools
Automated Accessibility Tools
- WAVE: Highlights accessibility issues visually
- Axe by Deque: Developer-focused testing tool
- Siteimprove: Full-platform accessibility reports
Manual Accessibility Tools
- NVDA (screen reader for Windows)
- VoiceOver (built-in on macOS and iOS)
- Chrome and Firefox screen reader emulators
- Keyboard-only usability tests
Accessibility Tips for Popular Platforms
WordPress
- Choose accessibility-ready themes
- Use plugins like WP Accessibility and One Click Accessibility
- Avoid adding non-compliant elements through page builders
Shopify
- Choose themes with built-in accessibility features
- Add alt text for every product image
- Use accessible third-party apps
Wix and Squarespace
- Take advantage of accessibility guides and tools provided
- Customize navigation for clarity and structure
- Regularly test third-party widgets for compliance
Keep Accessibility an Ongoing Practice
Website accessibility is never a “set it and forget it” task. Maintain accessibility with these habits:
- Conduct regular audits (especially after redesigns)
- Train your content and design teams
- Encourage feedback from users with disabilities
- Stay updated with WCAG updates and legal trends
Final Thoughts: Build a Web Everyone Can Use
Making your website ADA compliant isn’t just about protecting your business—it’s about doing the right thing. It opens the door to millions of users, boosts your SEO, and builds a brand that stands for inclusivity and accessibility GET A QUOTE.
Whether you’re starting a new website or updating an existing one, ADA compliance should be a key part of your digital strategy. With the right tools, mindset, and ongoing effort, you can ensure your website is welcoming to all.
