Accessibility Overlays

An “accessibility overlay” is a software service that can be added to an existing website or web application with the intent of improving accessibility for people with disabilities. Overlays typically add options to change font size, color, etc., and often claim to automatically “fix” accessibility issues in the original pages.

Unfortunately, many overlays have been marketed as a quick and easy way to meet accessibility requirements with minimal effort. However, they often don't live up to these claims – and sometimes even make accessibility issues worse. As a result, accessibility overlays have a negative reputation in much of the disability community.

While accessibility overlays may eventually become effective and reputable tools, the DoIT Office of Information Accessibility currently advises against including overlays on State websites.

• FTC Order – A Federal Trade Commission order fining an accessibility overlay provider $1 million for deceptive claims.
• NFB Comments on FTC Order – Official comments from the National Federation of the Blind supporting the FTC order about accessibility overlays and deceptive claims.
• Overlay Fact Sheet – A comprehensive explanation of the issues with accessibility overlays.
• IAAP Overlay Position and Recommendations – The official position of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals, which includes overlay providers