The Enterprise Accessibility Act (EAA) requires businesses to make their digital platforms, websites, and services accessible to people with disabilities. Non-compliance can result in legal risk, reputational damage, and operational limitations, especially for businesses operating in heavily regulated states like California, New York, and Massachusetts.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of EAA requirements, compliance strategies, and actionable steps to make your business fully accessible in 2025.
What Is the Enterprise Accessibility Act (EAA)?
The EAA is a US law that ensures businesses provide accessible digital services and platforms, covering:
- Websites, e-commerce, and mobile apps
- Online customer service portals
- Digital communication tools
Its purpose is to eliminate barriers for users with disabilities, aligning with ADA, Section 508, and WCAG standards.
Who Must Comply with EAA?
EAA applies to:
- Corporations and small businesses providing digital services to the public
- Financial institutions, retail platforms, and healthcare providers
- Education and government contractors distributing online content
- Organizations with national or multi-state reach
Compliance is mandatory in regions with active accessibility enforcement, and businesses serving federal or state contracts often have additional obligations.
Key EAA Compliance Requirements
EAA compliance requires organizations to:
- Ensure Accessible Digital Content
Web pages, forms, and media must be screen reader compatible
All images require alt text, videos need captions, and dynamic content must be keyboard navigable - Accessible Customer Interactions
Online support platforms must allow assistive technology use
Customer communications, chatbots, and forms must meet accessibility standards - Maintain Compliance Documentation
Keep records of audits, accessibility testing, and updates
Provide proof of compliance in case of audits or legal inquiries
Benefits of EAA Compliance
- Reduce legal exposure from accessibility lawsuits
- Enhance brand reputation by showing inclusivity
- Increase usability for all customers, not just those with disabilities
- Align with federal and state accessibility laws
- Open access to new markets and customers
Common EAA Compliance Challenges
Businesses may struggle with:
- Legacy websites and apps not designed for accessibility
- Lack of staff training in accessibility standards
- Inconsistent testing across platforms or devices
- Understanding state-specific enforcement policies
Proactively addressing these challenges mitigates risk and improves overall digital experience.
How to Achieve EAA Compliance
Follow this step-by-step approach:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Conduct a full audit of websites, apps, and digital tools |
| 2 | Identify accessibility gaps using WCAG 2.1 guidelines |
| 3 | Implement technical fixes for captions, alt text, color contrast, and navigation |
| 4 | Ensure assistive technology compatibility |
| 5 | Train staff and content creators on EAA accessibility requirements |
| 6 | Maintain ongoing monitoring and documentation |
ADA Compliance Guide | Section 508 Compliance
Case Studies: EAA Compliance in Action
- Retail e-commerce platform upgraded website to WCAG standards, reducing accessibility complaints by 80%
- Healthcare portal integrated screen reader-friendly interfaces, improving patient experience and meeting state compliance
- Education institution updated all online learning tools for accessibility, ensuring federal and state contract eligibility
Best Practices for Ongoing Compliance
- Conduct annual accessibility audits and reviews
- Implement automated monitoring tools for website and app updates
- Keep updated on EAA, ADA, Section 508, and WCAG guidelines
- Train all teams on inclusive design principles
- Maintain transparent documentation of compliance efforts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What businesses must follow the EAA?
Any business providing digital services to the public, including retail, healthcare, finance, and education, must comply with EAA accessibility requirements.
Is EAA mandatory in all states?
While the EAA is federal, enforcement and additional state regulations may apply, especially in California, New York, and Massachusetts.
How does EAA relate to ADA and WCAG?
EAA ensures digital accessibility, complementing ADA obligations and aligning with WCAG 2.1 standards for usability and accessibility.
How can businesses maintain EAA compliance?
Through regular audits, staff training, assistive technology testing, and documentation of updates to digital content and services.
Conclusion: Accessibility as a Business Imperative
EAA compliance is no longer optional. Businesses must provide accessible digital experiences to avoid legal risk, improve usability, and foster inclusivity. Achieving compliance demonstrates commitment to all customers and strengthens brand reputation in an increasingly digital world.
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