Accessibility is mandatory – EAA explained simply
Digital services must be accessible to everyone – via websites, apps, or kiosks. With the EAA, accessibility is no longer optional but required. Companies and organizations must act now to avoid fines and legal consequences. Accessibility means more than compliance: it builds trust, increases reach, and ensures sustainable digital business.
Market surveillance & legal framework
To enforce the EAA in Germany, market surveillance authorities have been designated. These institutions monitor whether companies and manufacturers fulfill their legal obligations – for websites, apps, or self-service terminals, such as ATMs and other digital machines.
Importers and resellers must also ensure that their products and services comply with the applicable standards. This also applies to international providers.
All organizations providing digital content must document compliance – a check helps detect violations early.
Who is affected by the law?
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a law requiring many operators of digital services to implement accessible standards based on WCAG 2.2 as of June 28, 2025.
Digital accessibility is mandatory for companies if they:
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Employ at least 10 people in the company
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Generate annual revenue of €2 million or more
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Offer digital services like online bookings, ordering processes, or customer portals
Ignoring it comes at a cost – accessibility is mandatory
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) requires companies and manufacturers to comply with legal accessibility standards in Germany as of June 2025. Whether e-commerce, finance, healthcare, IT, or NGOs – all digital content must be accessible.
Compliance will be monitored by market surveillance authorities who will penalize violations. Importers and resellers offering products and services online to consumers are especially accountable.
Failure to prepare in time risks fines and legal consequences. Microenterprises may be officially exempt, but neglecting accessibility solutions can still have consequences. EU-wide standards also impact visibility and usability of your site.
A timely check helps ensure compliance and eliminate digital barriers.
What happens if you ignore it?
Failing to prepare in time can result in:
Fines up to €100,000
Violations of the EAA can be extremely costly – authorities don’t grant exceptions.
Warnings from competitors or consumer groups
Other market participants and advocacy groups may also hold you legally accountable.
Loss of reputation through media coverage
Public criticism and negative press can damage your image – often long-term.
Further legal consequences
Besides fines, sales bans and other measures may follow if requirements are not met.
What does digital accessibility mean in practice?
Accessibility means your website or app is usable even for people with disabilities. The requirements are based on WCAG 2.2 (Level AA) and other guidelines.
Typical requirements:
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High-contrast text & scalable font sizes
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Keyboard navigation for users without a mouse
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Alt texts for images & media
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Clearly structured content (e.g., headings, lists)
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Plain language & intuitive navigation
SiteCockpit: The simple solution for complex requirements
With SiteCockpit, you meet EAA requirements quickly, reliably, and without needing to overhaul your website.
Automated audits
Your website is regularly checked for accessibility issues – clearly, quickly, and reliably.
Custom assistive features
Users can adjust contrast, font sizes, or reading modes directly on your site.
No redesign required
SiteCockpit works without a complete rebuild – one code snippet is enough.
Accessibility statement included
Easily create your legally required statement and keep it up to date.
WCAG 2.2 compliance support
You receive actionable guidance to make your site more accessible step by step.
Consulting & hands-on implementation
Personal support to help you comply with the EAA securely and efficiently.
Why SiteCockpit?
Because accessibility doesn’t have to be complicated. Our promise:
SiteCockpit makes implementation of the European Accessibility Act simple.
For your website.
For your users.
For your peace of mind.
Any questions? We’re here to help.
Whether an initial consultation or detailed planning – we’re here for you. Implement the EAA requirements now with a partner who understands you.