You've probably heard by now about new federal digital accessibility requirements that go into effect soon.
By April 24, 2026, all public entities, including institutions of higher education, must ensure their websites and mobile apps comply with ADA Title II and WCAG 2.1 AA.
How can you make sure the digital content you create is accessible?
Try these quick checklists before publishing to make sure you are compliant and your content is accessible to anyone!Webpages and News Posts
- Images have descriptive alt text.
- There are no images with text that is not also included in plain text. (i.e. no program flier images without program information also included in regular text.
- Appropriate heading structure is used.
- Any attached documents are accessible (PDFs, Word Files, PowerPoint slides). If the format is not accessible, it should be accompanied by an alternative accessible format providing equivalent information, or removed until it can be converted or remediated. The most accessible format is to post directly on the website (HTML).
- Emojis are used decoratively and sparingly.
- Appropriate color contrast and legible fonts are used.
- Tables are accessible.
- Links are descriptive.
Video
- Video includes accurate captions or subtitles.
- A transcript is provided.
- Warnings for flashes are included if applicable.
Social Media
- Social media images include alt text or I’ve added a description in the caption.
- Information is included in the description or caption (not just embedded text in an image).
- Uploaded audio/video includes captions or transcripts.
- Emojis are used decoratively and sparingly.
- Appropriate color contrast and legible fonts are used.
- Hashtags are written in #CamelCase.
Forms
- Form was created through an accessible option for registration or fillable documents (i.e. Google Forms or Eventbrite rather than just a PDF).
- Required fields are labeled.
- Instructions and format requirements are clear.
Newsletters
- The newsletter is created in an accessible format (ActiveCampaign).
- Canva and Adobe Express can be used to create graphics for newsletters, but should not be used to create full newsletters with shareable links because of issues with reading order.
- General webpage requirements are also met.
