The standard tool for evaluating product accessibility

Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)

Start free trial

What is a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template?

VPAT is a standardized document used to evaluate how accessible a digital product or service is. It outlines how well a product conforms to recognized accessibility standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Section 508, and EN 301 549, many of which are informed by broader W3C accessibility. The completed VPAT becomes an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR), which is often required by government agencies and educational institutions.

While it’s voluntary for vendors, providing VPAT accessibility can demonstrate transparency and reduce legal risk. It’s an essential tool for any organization selling digital tools in accessibility-regulated markets.

Why do you need a VPAT?

VPAT accessibility helps your organization clearly communicate how your digital product or service aligns with accessibility standards. It’s especially valuable when working with government agencies, public institutions, or large enterprises that require accessibility transparency as part of their procurement process. Even outside of mandatory scenarios, offering a VPAT builds trust and strengthens your compliance efforts.

  • Required for many public sector and enterprise contracts
  • Demonstrates alignment with Section 508, WCAG, and other standards
  • Supports procurement teams in making informed decisions
  • Reduces risk of accessibility-related legal claims
  • Shows a proactive commitment to inclusive design

VPAT documentation also complements other accessibility frameworks likeARIA web accessibility. Creating a VPAT is a smart investment in accessibility, credibility, and long-term business growth.

VPAT accessibility scope and application

  • Accessibility documentation

    The Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) provides a standardized way to document how a digital product or service supports accessibility requirements. It maps your product’s features to the criteria outlined in accessibility standards like WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549.

  • Use cases

    VPATs are often used by vendors, procurement teams, and compliance officers in both the public and private sectors. They’re required for selling to U.S. federal agencies and increasingly requested in global procurement, especially where Section 504 or EAA compliance is involved.

  • Compatibility with WCAG

    VPATs are often used by vendors, procurement teams, and compliance officers in both the public and private sectors. They’re required for selling to U.S. federal agencies and increasingly requested in global procurement, especially where Section 504 or EAA compliance is involved.

VPAT accessibility and its strategic value

  • 01

    Transparency that supports procurement decisions

    A completed VPAT helps government agencies and clients evaluate how well your digital product meets accessibility standards. By proactively sharing accessibility information, vendors make the evaluation process easier and increase their eligibility for RFPs and contracts, especially those subject to Section 508.

  • 02

    Identifying gaps in accessibility performance

    Filling out a VPAT is a diagnostic tool. It can uncover areas where your product falls short of WCAG, Section 508, or EN 301 549 criteria, guiding future updates or design improvements based on recognized international benchmarks.

  • 03

    Building a competitive advantage

    Vendors that provide accurate and up-to-date VPAT show a commitment to accessibility and user inclusivity. This transparency often distinguishes them from competitors during procurement reviews and elevates the company brand as one that prioritizes both compliance and customer experience.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

What is a VPAT test? 

A VPAT test refers to the process of evaluating how well a website or app meets established accessibility standards. The results are documented in a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT), which outlines conformance to guidelines like WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549.

This template helps procurement officers and regulators understand the accessibility of your offering. It’s not a “test” in the traditional sense but a structured way to report accessibility details.

Is VPAT the same as WCAG? 

No, VPAT and WCAG are not the same. WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is a set of standards that define what makes web content accessible. On the other hand, a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template is a reporting tool used to show how a product aligns with WCAG and other accessibility guidelines. Think of WCAG as the rules, and the VPAT as the report card showing how well you’re following them.

Is VPAT mandatory? 

While a VPAT isn’t legally required in all industries, it is often mandatory when doing business with government agencies or bidding on public sector contracts. In the U.S., federal procurement under Section 508 often requires VPAT accessibility. Even in private sector scenarios, offering a VPAT can strengthen your credibility and transparency. It’s increasingly seen as a competitive advantage, even outside of regulated spaces.

Can you do your own VPAT? 

Technically yes, but it’s easy to get it wrong. A proper VPAT requires in-depth accessibility testing, familiarity with WCAG and Section 508, and the ability to explain complex interactions in clear language. If not completed accurately, your VPAT could lead to false claims or failed audits. This includes elements like ARIA web accessibility, which governs how screen readers interpret dynamic content. This is why our team handles the documentation and strategy to help you publish a VPAT that holds up under detailed evaluation.

Need professional help with VPAT accessibility? 

Our team specializes in creating accurate, standards-aligned VPATs that reflect your product’s accessibility and meet procurement requirements. We work closely with you to evaluate your digital tools to identify any accessibility gaps and clearly communicate compliance with WCAG, Section 508, and EN 301 549.

Whether you’re preparing for federal contracts, building trust with enterprise buyers, or simply striving to improve usability, we can guide you through the process from assessment to reporting. Let includeUs simplify the technical side of accessibility so your product is ready for any review!