Create Accessible Forms

Introduction

Web-based forms using HTML are the best way to provide forms. HTML forms are the most accessible format and they are easier to create than forms in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF. In addition, not only is it more difficult to create "accessible" forms with these programs, they are also more difficult for all users to navigate and complete - even for users not using assistive technologies. With this in mind, always consider using web-based forms unless some kind of document based form is needed for some reason.

Resources on How to Create Accessible Forms

Web Forms

• WebAIM: Creating Accessible Web Forms
• US Department of Veterans Affairs: Testing HTML Forms for Section 508 Compliance

PDF Forms

• WebAIM: Accessible Forms in Acrobat XI
• US Department of Veterans Affairs: Creating Accessible PDFs with Adobe Acrobat Professional

Microsoft Word Forms

• Texas State Government: Creating Accessible Microsoft Office 2013-2016 Documents - the Word Forms sections of this page has some useful guides and instructional videos
• Microsoft: Create a Fillable Form