Many people type “What is VPAT?” or “VPAT compliance” into search engines when they are trying to make sense of digital accessibility requirements.
What is a VPAT?
VPAT stands for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It is a checklist that shows how accessible a product. It is used for software, a website or applications. These are tested to ensure restriction-free access by people with disabilities. Essentially, VPAT tells you if your digital tools work well for all users even those who use screen readers, magnifiers or other assistive technologies.
A VPAT is usually filled out by the product vendor and shows how the product stacks up against accessibility standards. VPAT tells about compliance with Section 508, a U.S. law for federal agencies. It also shows conformance with WCAG which are international web accessibility guidelines.
Why Do You Need a VPAT?
If you are thinking about the cost of professional services then one thing often comes to the mind- Do I really need a VPAT?
Well, yes you need to be serious about VPAT accessibility if you are selling products to federal agencies or any organization that cares about accessibility laws.
A VPAT matters because:
It shows accountability. Buyers want to know that your product meets accessibility standards. A VPAT gives them a clear, easy-to-read overview.
It helps avoid legal trouble. Accessibility lawsuits are on the rise, and a VPAT can demonstrate that you’ve made a good-faith effort to comply.
It opens business opportunities. Federal agencies, schools, and corporations often require a VPAT before purchasing digital products. Without it, you could lose contracts.
VPAT reporting makes your product better for all users so it is non-negotiable in 2025.
What is VPAT Compliance?
VPAT compliance doesn’t mean your product is perfect. This document tells your vendors about accessibility features and gaps in a standardized way. When someone talks about VPAT compliance, they usually mean that a VPAT exists for the product.
Being VPAT compliant signals responsibility and professionalism. It shows you are transparent about what our product can and cannot do.
What is VPAT Accessibility?
VPAT accessibility is essentially how well a product can be used by people with disabilities. The VPAT itself evaluates accessibility across multiple areas:
Software applications: Can the software be browsed with a keyboard or screen reader?
Websites: Are headings and forms are coded for compatibility with assistive technology?
Electronic documents: Are PDFs, spreadsheets and presentations accessible?
Each section of a VPAT tells if a product fully meets or does not meet accessibility criteria. This transparency is crucial for buyers. They can check the compliance levels and make purchase decisions.
How to Read a VPAT
Reading a VPAT might seem intimidating at first, but you will be doing it easily after today.
Most VPATs are divided into tables that align with accessibility standards.
Look at the criteria: These are the rules the product is being tested against, like Section 508 or WCAG AA.
Check the ratings: Products are rated as Supports, Partially Supports, Does Not Support or Not Applicable.
Read the notes: Vendors usually explain limitations or workarounds here. This section is important for understanding where improvements are needed.
Who Should Care About VPAT?
Federal, state, or local agencies often require VPATs before making purchases.
Schools and universities want to ensure digital tools are accessible for students.
Many businesses adopt accessibility policies to comply with the law and improve user experience.
A VPAT is a roadmap for improving accessibility for companies that create software, apps, or websites.
VPAT and Business Benefits
VPATs can actually help your business grow. Clients and users appreciate transparency about accessibility. Demonstrating accessibility efforts helps protect your company from lawsuits. Reviewing VPATs often highlights accessibility gaps. This way your product becomes more user-friendly.
Conclusion
A VPAT is a tool for transparency and better digital experiences. VPAT accessibility documentation can help software vendors, website owners, or organizations purchasing digital products in decision making.
If you are just starting out, consider working with accessibility experts for filling out VPAT templates for your product. In fact, choosing VPAT experts at ADACP can open doors of success and protect your business.