TL;DR
- The BFSG has been in effect for many SMEs since June 2025.
- Websites, online stores, and apps must be accessible; otherwise, you risk receiving a warning letter.
- Five specific steps will help you check your site’s BFSG compliance.
- You must not ignore the minimum requirements under any circumstances.
In a nutshell:
- The Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) has been in effect for many SMEs since June 2025—websites, online stores, and apps must be accessible, or else face warnings.
- We’ll show you in five concrete steps how to check your website for BFSG compliance and which minimum requirements you absolutely must not ignore.
Everyone is talking about the Accessibility Enhancement Act. But what does that mean specifically for website operators? We’ll show you how to meet the requirements while also reaping the benefits of accessible websites.
The Accessibility Enhancement Act: Opportunities and Challenges for Your Website
Hey there! Dennis here from Waterproof Web Wizard. Today we’re taking a look at the Accessibility Enhancement Act. Sounds like a mouthful, I know. But don’t worry, I’ll explain everything you need to know in simple terms.
What on earth is the Accessibility Enhancement Act anyway?
Imagine you want to order a pizza. But the website is so poorly designed that you can’t submit your order. Frustrating, right? Now imagine that happens to you on almost every website. Welcome to the world of people with disabilities on the internet.
The Accessibility Enhancement Act aims to change that. It requires companies to make their websites accessible to everyone—whether they have visual impairments, hearing impairments, or mobility limitations. Everyone should be able to use the internet without restrictions.
Why you should pay attention to this now
Sure, laws are usually a pain. But this one brings you real benefits:
- More customers: An accessible website reaches more people.
- Better image: You demonstrate social responsibility.
- Legal certainty: No fear of warnings or lawsuits.
- Better Google ranking: Accessible sites are often ranked higher.
What exactly do you need to do?
The law is based on the WCAG 2.1 guidelines. It sounds complicated, but it isn’t. Here are the key points:
- Clear structure: Proper headings, logical layout.
- Alternative text for images: Describe what is shown.
- Contrast: Text must stand out from the background.
- Keyboard navigation: Everything must be usable without a mouse.
- Captions for videos: Not everyone can hear.
Common mistakes you should avoid
- Font too small: No one likes using a magnifying glass on a screen.
- Unreadable colors: Neon on white? Please don’t.
- Time limits: Stress when filling out forms? A no-go.
- Lack of structure: If everything is important, nothing is important.
- Complicated language: Write the way you speak.
Tools to help you
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. There are great tools that do the work for you:
- WAVE: Checks your website for accessibility.
- Lighthouse: Part of Chrome DevTools, great for technical checks.
- Color Contrast Analyzer: Tests color contrasts.
- Screen reader: NVDA (free) or JAWS for self-testing.
Conclusion: Accessibility is not a luxury, but a necessity
The Accessibility Enhancement Act may seem like a hassle at first glance. But it offers you the chance to improve your website. For everyone. And that pays off—in accessibility, image, and revenue.
So, get to it! Your users will thank you. And so will your business.
FAQs on the Accessibility Enhancement Act
Q: When does the law take effect? A: Most provisions take effect on June 28, 2025.
Q: Does this apply to all websites? A: Initially, only to larger companies. But it’s worth it for everyone.
Q: How much will implementation cost me? A: That depends on your current website. Often, it’s just small changes.
Q: Can I implement this myself? A: For many things, yes. For complex issues, it’s better to bring in experts.
Q: What happens if I do nothing? A: In the worst case, you could face fines and lawsuits. It’s better to take care of this now.
The Accessibility Enhancement Act is an opportunity not only to comply with the law but to truly reach everyone. Take advantage of it!