Meeting the ADA Title II Digital Accessibility Requirements

Understanding the Title II Exemptions

Decision Guide for ADA Title II Exemptions

Use this step-by-step guide to help you decide whether web content, documents, app content, or social media posts likely need to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA. For a detailed review of the ADA Title II updates, see Fact Sheet: New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments opens a new window.

PLEASE NOTE: This is a visual guide for reference. It is not interactive.

  1. Is the content truly archived?

    To qualify, all of the following should be true:

    • It was created before the April 24th, 2026 compliance deadline.
    • It is kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping.
    • It is stored in a clearly labeled archive area.
    • It has not been changed since it was archived.

    Yes: You do not need to make this content accessible.

    No: The content should be made accessible. Continue to Step 2.

  2. Is this an older document posted before the April 24th, 2026 compliance deadline?

    This exception only applies to Word files, PowerPoints, PDFs, and spreadsheets that were already online before the deadline and have not been updated.

    Yes: You do not need to make this content accessible.

    No: The content should be made accessible. Continue to Step 3.

  3. Is the older document still being used to access a program, service, activity, course, or required university process?

    Examples include forms, instructions, applications, registration materials, and required resources.

    Yes: The content should be made accessible.

    No: You do not need to make this content accessible. Continue to Step 4.

  4. Is the content new or recently updated?

    This includes new pages, revised PDFs, edited spreadsheets, updated forms, and refreshed media.

    Yes: The content should be made accessible.

    No: You do not need to make this content accessible. Continue to Step 5.

  5. Was the content posted directly by a third party?

    This may include public comments, forum posts, or other user-generated content.

    Yes: You do not need to make this content accessible.

    No: The content should be made accessible. Continue to Step 6.


    PLEASE NOTE: Content posted by the university, faculty, staff, and/or vendors contracted by the university is generally not covered by this exception.

  6. Is it an individualized document in a secure, password-protected space?

    To qualify, the item must be a Word file, PowerPoint, PDF, or spreadsheet about a specific person, account, or property.

    Yes: You do not need to make this content accessible.

    No: The content should be made accessible. Continue to Step 7.

  7. Is it a social media post published before the April 24th, 2026 compliance deadline?

    Yes: You do not need to make this content accessible.

    No: The content should be made accessible.

Additional Considerations

If you still have questions or wish to request remediation support services (i.e., documents, video, websites), Contact the ATI Office.