Exceptions to WCAG 2.1

Exceptions to WCAG 2.1

Exceptions to the ADA Title II Web & Mobile App Ruling 

Below is a list of four exceptions for content that are not required to meet WCAG 2.1 standards. This list includes some basic reminders about the exceptions, but the list does not include all the details about each exception. If you are not sure if something falls under an exception, reach out to the Director of Accessibility Services. These guidelines were taken from the ADA website. 

  1. Archived web content 

    1. Remember: The rule has a specific definition of “archived web content.” Just putting content into an archive is not enough to make the content qualify for this exception. This exception only applies to the content that existed before the compliance deadline (April 26, 2027).  

  1. Preexisting conventional electronic documents (PDFs, word processor file formats, presentation file formats, and spreadsheet file formats) 

    1. Remember: 

      1. To qualify for this exception, your conventional electronic documents must be “preexisting,” meaning they were posted before the compliance deadline (April 26, 2027). The exception does not apply to new content posted after the compliance deadline. 

      2. This exception does not apply to documents that are currently used to access the services, programs, or activities. 

  1. Exception for individualized, password-protected conventional electronic documents (PDFs, word processor file formats, presentation file formats, and spreadsheet file formats) 

    1. Remember: To qualify for this exception, a document must be about a specific person, property, or account. 

  1. Exception for preexisting social media posts 

    1. Remember: To qualify for this exception, the social media posts must have to be “preexisting,” meaning they were posted before the compliance deadline (April 27, 2027). This exception does not apply to social media posts made after the compliance deadline. 

Additional Guidance 

Even if the web content or content in our mobile app(s) is covered by an exception, we still have to meet other preexisting obligations under the ADA. 

The ADA requires us to provide individuals with disabilities with effective communication, reasonable modifications, and an equal opportunity to participate in or benefit from our services, programs, and activities. This means even when our content does not have to meet WCAG 2.1, in many circumstances we would still need to provide the content to a person with a disability who needs it in a format that is accessible to them.