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Why Accessibility Matters for Banks & Credit Unions

  • Writer: Jennifer Duncan
    Jennifer Duncan
  • Jan 8, 2025
  • 3 min read

Increase Market Reach & Customer Loyalty


Over 61 million adults in the U.S. live with a disability, including millions of veterans who may have service-connected disabilities.

By prioritizing digital accessibility, banks and credit unions can:

  • Expand their customer base by making online and mobile banking accessible.

  • Build trust and loyalty by offering inclusive financial services.

  • Differentiate themselves as leaders in financial accessibility.


More Than a Website Widget: A Holistic Accessibility Approach

Accessibility isn’t just about adding a plugin or widget to a website—it requires a hybrid approach combining technology with expert human oversight. Financial institutions must ensure:

  • Mobile banking apps are fully navigable with screen readers.

  • Online forms & applications are easy to complete for all users.

  • Statements, loan documents & disclosures are properly formatted for screen readers.

  • ATM & kiosk interfaces are accessible with voice assistance and tactile feedback.

  • Video content includes captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.


Legal & Compliance Considerations

Banks and credit unions must comply with:

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Ensures digital banking services are accessible.

  • Section 508 – Mandates accessibility for government-affiliated financial services.

  • Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 Level AA) – The industry standard for digital accessibility.


Businesses can face fines of $75,000 for a single ADA violation, and up to $150,000 for further violations.
Non-compliance with ADA rules can lead to lawsuits and financial losses, with typical settlements ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. 

Failure to meet these requirements can result in legal action, financial penalties, and reputational harm, making accessibility a business imperative.


How Accessibility Drives Value for the Veteran & Disabled Community

Enhancing Financial IndependenceVeterans and individuals with disabilities often face barriers to traditional banking services. Digital accessibility ensures:

  • Seamless online & mobile banking for those with visual, cognitive, or motor impairments.

  • Accessible financial literacy resources to help veterans and disabled individuals manage finances.

  • Equitable access to loans, mortgages, and financial products without reliance on in-person visits.


Strengthening Community Engagement

Banks and credit unions that embrace accessibility demonstrate their commitment to:

  • Diversity, equity & inclusion by providing financial solutions for all.

  • Corporate social responsibility through veteran-friendly services.

  • Better customer experiences that promote long-term relationships.


How We Help Financial Institutions Achieve Accessibility

At Accessify Media LLC, we work with banks and credit unions to embed accessibility into every digital touchpoint, ensuring compliance, usability, and inclusivity.

Comprehensive Accessibility Audits

  • Identify accessibility barriers across websites, mobile apps, and digital documents.

  • Evaluate user experience for assistive technologies like screen readers.

  • Provide actionable recommendations for full compliance.

Document & Digital Banking Accessibility

  • Ensure loan applications, statements, and online forms are screen reader-compatible.

  • Optimize mobile banking experiences for individuals with disabilities.

  • Provide accessible PDFs, e-statements, and disclosures with proper tagging.

Multimedia & Customer Communication Accessibility

  • Add captions, transcripts & audio descriptions to marketing and educational videos.

  • Ensure customer service chat & voice assistants are accessible to all users.

  • Create inclusive financial education resources for the veteran and disabled community.


Partner With Us to Build an Inclusive Financial Future

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating equitable, seamless, and innovative banking experiences that serve all customers, including veterans and those with disabilities.


By partnering with Accessify Media LLC, you gain:

Expert audits & compliance support to meet ADA, Section 508, and WCAG standards.

  • Increased customer engagement by making digital banking accessible to all.

  • Competitive advantage as an inclusive financial institution.

  • Seamless integration of accessibility best practices into your digital and mobile platforms.

  • Mitigation of legal risks by ensuring full compliance with accessibility regulations, reducing exposure to lawsuits and financial penalties. Expert audits & compliance support to meet ADA, Section 508, and WCAG standards.


Let’s make financial services accessible for all. Contact us today!

 
 
 

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