Website accessibility is about more than fixing technical issues—it’s also about communication and transparency. In 2026, an accessibility statement has become a critical part of a complete accessibility strategy, especially for organizations aiming to meet WCAG and ADA compliance requirements.
This article explains what an accessibility statement is, why it matters, and how it works alongside accessibility checkers to support long-term compliance.
What Is an Accessibility Statement?
An accessibility statement is a public page on your website that explains:
- Your commitment to digital accessibility
- The standards you aim to meet (such as WCAG 2.2)
- How you test and maintain accessibility
- Known limitations and ongoing improvements
- A way for users to report accessibility issues
It acts as a bridge between technical compliance and user trust.
Why Accessibility Statements Matter in 2026
1. Growing Legal Expectations
While the ADA does not explicitly require an accessibility statement, courts increasingly view it as evidence of good-faith compliance efforts. A clear statement shows that accessibility is an ongoing priority, not an afterthought.
2. Transparency for Users
Users with disabilities want to know whether a website:
- Supports assistive technologies
- Is regularly tested
- Has a way to report issues
An accessibility statement provides this clarity upfront.
3. Stronger Brand Credibility
Publishing an accessibility statement signals inclusivity, responsibility, and professionalism—qualities modern users expect from trusted brands.
How Accessibility Checkers Support Your Accessibility Statement
An accessibility statement should be backed by real action. This is where accessibility checkers play a key role.
Accessibility checkers help you:
- Regularly scan your website for WCAG issues
- Track improvements over time
- Identify new problems after updates
- Provide documented proof of monitoring efforts
Mentioning automated and manual testing methods in your statement strengthens its credibility.
What to Include in an Accessibility Statement
A strong accessibility statement in 2026 should include:
Accessibility Standards
Clearly state which guidelines you follow, such as:
- WCAG 2.2 Level AA
- ADA best practices
Testing & Monitoring
Explain how accessibility is maintained:
- Automated accessibility checker scans
- Manual testing
- Ongoing monitoring schedules
Known Limitations
Be honest about any areas still being improved. Transparency builds trust and reduces risk.
Feedback Contact
Provide an accessible way for users to report issues, such as:
- Email address
- Contact form
- Support channel
Accessibility Statements and SEO Benefits
While accessibility statements are not direct ranking factors, they support SEO indirectly by:
- Improving site structure
- Increasing user trust and engagement
- Supporting accessibility best practices aligned with search engine guidelines
Search engines favor user-friendly, transparent websites.
Who Should Have an Accessibility Statement?
In 2026, accessibility statements are recommended for:
- Business websites
- E-commerce stores
- Government and educational institutions
- SaaS platforms
- Blogs and content publishers
- Any website targeting WCAG or ADA compliance
If your website serves the public, an accessibility statement is essential.
Best Practices for Accessibility Statements in 2026
- Keep the language clear and easy to understand
- Update the statement regularly
- Link it in the footer for easy access
- Align it with actual accessibility testing efforts
- Avoid vague or misleading claims
An outdated or inaccurate statement can do more harm than good.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, an accessibility statement is not just a formality—it’s a vital part of a transparent, compliant, and inclusive web presence. When paired with regular accessibility checker scans and ongoing monitoring, it helps demonstrate real commitment to WCAG and ADA compliance.
An effective accessibility statement protects your organization, supports users, and reinforces trust—making it an essential component of modern website accessibility.
