What does an accessibility statement usually include?

Most statements describe accessibility goals, reference WCAG guidelines, and provide a contact method for reporting access issues.

Can missing accessibility language affect ads or reviews?

Yes. Missing accessibility statements are commonly flagged during compliance reviews and can reduce trust with advertisers and platforms.

Is this page legal advice?

No. This content is informational only and does not provide legal advice or compliance guarantees.

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Does My Website Need an Accessibility Statement?

Q: Does my website legally need an accessibility statement?

Not every website has the same legal obligations, but many US-facing sites publish an accessibility statement as a risk-reduction and trust signal, especially when serving the public.

Accessibility statements are not just for large organizations. Many US-facing websites publish them to reduce compliance risk, improve trust, and provide a clear contact path for accessibility issues.

This guide explains accessibility statements from a practical website-owner perspective. Informational only — not legal advice.

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1. What an accessibility statement is

An accessibility statement explains your commitment to making your website usable by people with disabilities. It usually outlines your accessibility goals and provides a way for users to report problems.

2. Why websites publish accessibility statements

Many websites publish accessibility statements as a proactive step. They help demonstrate good-faith efforts, reduce legal and compliance risk, and show users that accessibility concerns are taken seriously.

3. When accessibility language is most expected

Accessibility expectations are higher for:

Public-facing websites
Sites offering services or information
Government, education, and healthcare content
Sites running ads or monetizing traffic

4. What most accessibility statements include

While wording varies, most statements reference accessibility standards (often WCAG), explain ongoing efforts, and provide a contact method for reporting access issues.

Websites with vs without accessibility statements

Websites with statements

Clear accessibility commitment
Contact path for issues
Stronger trust signals
Lower compliance-review risk

Websites without statements

No accessibility guidance
Users unsure how to report issues
Higher audit scrutiny
Frequent compliance scan flags

Even a basic accessibility statement can significantly improve clarity and trust.

Check your accessibility signals

Related US website compliance & lawsuit risk guides

Frequently asked questions about accessibility statements

Does my website legally need an accessibility statement?

Not all sites have the same obligations, but many publish one to reduce risk and demonstrate accessibility awareness.

What should an accessibility statement include?

A description of accessibility goals, reference to standards like WCAG, and a contact method for reporting issues.

Can missing accessibility language affect ad approval?

Yes. Missing accessibility statements are often flagged during compliance and trust reviews.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is informational only.

Unsure if your site meets accessibility expectations?

Run a free US compliance scan and identify missing accessibility signals.

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