ADA Website Compliance: What Small Businesses Need to Know in 2024

As a small business owner or manager, you have a lot on your plate. From managing daily operations to planning for growth, it’s easy to overlook certain aspects of your business. However, one area you can’t afford to ignore is ADA website compliance. With updated digital accessibility guidelines now in place, ensuring compliance is no longer optional—it’s essential for both legal protection and better user experience.

Understanding the 2024 ADA Digital Accessibility Guidelines

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has introduced significant updates to ADA digital accessibility guidelines, effective April 24, 2024. These new regulations mandate compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1, Level AA, which set specific standards for website and mobile application accessibility.

Businesses of all sizes, including small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), must meet these standards to avoid legal risks and ensure inclusivity. The good news is that SMBs have until April 26, 2027, to achieve full compliance. While this may seem like ample time, getting started now will prevent last-minute hurdles.

Website Accessibility: Key Compliance Features for SMBs

Ensuring ADA compliance for websites means integrating the following key features:

• Alternative Text for Images – Every image should include descriptive alt text for screen readers.
• Keyboard Navigation Support – Users should be able to navigate your entire website using only a keyboard.
• Proper Heading Structure – Logical use of heading tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) aids in readability for screen readers.
• Sufficient Color Contrast – Ensuring readability for visually impaired users.
• Captions for Video Content – Adding captions makes videos accessible to those with hearing impairments.
• Descriptive Link Text – Avoid generic links like “click here”; instead, use descriptive phrases.
• Consistent and Predictable Navigation – Your website should maintain uniform navigation across all pages.
• Form Labels and Error Messages – All forms should have clear labels and descriptive error messages.
• Resizable Text – Text should be resizable up to 200% without content loss.
• ARIA Landmarks – Helps screen readers better understand and navigate your site.

Implementing these features not only ensures ADA compliance for websites but also improves the overall user experience for all visitors.

Steps for Small Businesses to Achieve ADA Compliance

To ensure your website meets ADA guidelines, follow these essential steps:

1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit – Assess your site against WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards using free or paid tools.
2. Prioritize Issues – Address the most critical issues first.
3. Update Content – Add alt text, improve color contrast, and refine heading structures.
4. Train Your Team – Educate your staff about accessibility requirements.
5. Test with Real Users – If possible, involve users with disabilities for direct feedback.
6. Implement Ongoing Monitoring – Accessibility is an ongoing process; schedule periodic audits.

By taking these steps, you not only avoid legal risks but also create a more inclusive and user-friendly website.

Web Accessibility Standards: WCAG 2.1 Level AA Explained

The WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards cover four key principles:

• Perceivable – Content must be accessible to users in multiple ways (e.g., text alternatives for images).
• Operable – Users must be able to interact with all elements (e.g., keyboard navigation support).
• Understandable – Content should be readable and predictable.
• Robust – Compatibility with assistive technologies.

Meeting these standards makes your website more inclusive and ensures compliance with ADA regulations.

ADA Compliance Exemptions and Special Considerations

While ADA compliance for websites is crucial, some exemptions apply:

• Archived Content – Content published before April 26, 2027, may be exempt.
• Third-Party Content – Content posted by external users may not require compliance.
• Undue Burden – If compliance would result in extreme financial hardship or alter services, businesses may request an exemption (though this should be carefully documented).

Despite these exemptions, striving for full ADA website compliance is always the best practice.

CDML: Your Trusted Compliance Consultant

At CDML Computer Services, we understand that SMBs need to navigate compliance beyond just website accessibility. While we don’t create websites, we offer compliance consulting solutions to help businesses meet regulatory requirements across their entire technology infrastructure. Our services include:

• ADA Digital Accessibility Assessments – Helping businesses identify and fix compliance gaps.
• Cybersecurity & Compliance Audits – Ensuring your business meets security and regulatory standards.
• Data Protection & Privacy Compliance – Assisting with HIPAA, NYDFS 23 NYCRR 500, and other IT compliance mandates.
• Employee Training – Educating staff on digital accessibility and compliance best practices.

By partnering with CDML, you ensure that all aspects of your business’s technology—from cybersecurity to accessibility—are compliant, secure, and optimized for growth.

Implementation Timeline & Next Steps

To stay ahead of the 2027 deadline, follow this structured implementation timeline:

• Early 2025 – Conduct an initial accessibility audit and identify key issues.
• Throughout 2025 – Implement major accessibility features and update content.
• 2026 – Fine-tune compliance efforts and train staff.
• Early 2027 – Perform a final compliance audit before the deadline.

Regular website audits and updates will help maintain ADA website compliance and create a seamless experience for all users.

Conclusion: ADA Compliance as a Business Opportunity

Achieving ADA website compliance is more than a legal requirement—it’s an investment in inclusivity, user experience, and business growth.

Why should SMBs act now?

• Avoid legal risks – Non-compliance can lead to costly lawsuits.
• Expand your audience – Accessibility improves engagement and usability for all customers.
• Boost SEO – Many accessibility practices align with SEO best practices.
• Enhance brand reputation – Demonstrating inclusivity strengthens brand trust and credibility.

Instead of viewing ADA compliance as another regulatory hurdle, consider it an opportunity to improve your business and provide equal access for all users.

Need Help with ADA Compliance?

CDML provides compliance consulting beyond just website accessibility—we help SMBs navigate cybersecurity, data protection, and IT compliance requirements. Start your compliance journey today by scheduling a consultation with our experts.

📞 Call us at 718-393-5343
🌐 Contact us at www.cdml.com/contact
📧 Email us at [email protected] Every step toward compliance is a step toward a more secure and inclusive business. Don’t wait—take action today!