Why Your Website Needs an Accessibility Statement

Jennifer Duncan
Apr 9
2 min read

If your website is designed to serve the public—especially if you work with the government, offer digital services, or sell products online—you need an accessibility statement. It’s not just best practice; it’s a critical part of maintaining compliance and building trust.

It Shows You Take Accessibility Seriously

An accessibility statement publicly commits your organization to digital inclusion. It tells visitors that you recognize the importance of accessibility and are working to provide an inclusive experience for all users, including people with disabilities.

It Supports Legal Compliance

For organizations subject to Section 508, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or the European Accessibility Act (EAA), an accessibility statement is often expected or required. It signals that you're aware of your obligations and are actively addressing them. This can reduce legal risk and support your defense in case of complaints or audits.

It Provides Clear Contact and Feedback Channels

Accessibility statements typically include a way for users to report barriers or request accommodations. This open line of communication builds trust and ensures you can address issues quickly—before they become legal or reputational problems.

It Increases Credibility and Transparency

Federal agencies and contractors are increasingly requiring accessibility commitments from their partners. A clear, well-written statement shows you're proactive and aligned with federal digital accessibility standards—often a deciding factor in contract awards.

It Helps Guide Internal Improvements

Listing your accessibility goals, known limitations, and ongoing efforts in a statement creates accountability and internal alignment. It encourages continued evaluation and remediation of web content, apps, documents, and media.

What Should an Accessibility Statement Include?

At minimum, your statement should:

Acknowledge your commitment to accessibility
Cite the standards you follow (e.g., WCAG 2.1 or 2.2 AA)
Share known limitations (if any)
Offer contact info for feedback or help
Provide a date of the last update

Having an accessibility statement isn’t just about compliance—it’s about inclusion, transparency, and trust. If you’re not sure where to start, we can help you create or review your statement to ensure it reflects both your legal obligations and your organizational values.