Do I have to make every web page and document accessible before the deadline?
Not necessarily. The new rule for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allows certain exceptions. Content that falls under one of these exceptions is not required to be made accessible at this time. However, an accessible version of the content must be provided to a user upon request.
Use our accessibility exceptions tool to quickly determine if your content may qualify for archival.
Archived web content exception – all four must be true
- The content was created before your compliance date (April 24, 2026 for CT State agencies) OR it reproduce old physical media such as scanned images or microfiche.
- It is kept only for reference, research, or recordkeeping.
- It is stored in a clearly labeled archive section of your site.
- It hasnot been changed since it was archived.
If all four criteria are true, the web content should be archived.
Notice: If even one of these is missing, the content cannot be archived. It must be made accessible.
Preexisting electronic documents – both must be true:
- It is a conventional document (PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- It was posted online before your compliance date.
If both are true, and the document is not used to access services, programs, or participate in activities, it should be archived.
Notice: If either of these is missing, or the document is actively used to access services, programs, or participate in activities, it cannot be archived. It must be made accessible.
Important notes
- Updated or reused content loses its exception.
- Content used to apply for or access services or programs, or to participate in activities, must always be accessible.
- Always clearly label archive folders and avoid making changes after archiving. Archiving does NOT mean you have to unpublish the content. They are still available, just in an archive folder