In today’s digital landscape, accessibility is more than just a moral obligation—it’s a business imperative. Making your business accessible benefits both people with disabilities and your business. One such benefit is the Disabled Access Credit, which can help small businesses offset the costs of enhancing accessibility. But which services qualify, and how can your business take full advantage of this credit?

Understanding the Disabled Access Credit for Your Business

The Disabled Access Credit is a government initiative designed to encourage small businesses to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Eligible businesses can receive a maximum annual credit of $5,000 by claiming 50% of qualifying expenses over $250. This credit can significantly reduce the financial burden of making your business more inclusive.

Qualifying Services for the Disabled Access Credit

Understanding which accessibility-related expenses qualify for the credit is key to maximizing your benefits. These services improve accessibility and qualify your business for tax credits.

Accessibility Remediation (Content and Code Updates)

• Why It Qualifies: Updating your website’s code and content to meet accessibility standards removes barriers for individuals with disabilities, making these updates eligible for the Disabled Access Credit.

Web Accessibility Audits and Remediation

• Why It Qualifies: While the initial audit may not directly qualify, the remediation work that follows—such as fixing accessibility issues identified during the audit—is typically eligible. This ensures your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, and makes use of the credit.

Mobile App Accessibility Audits and Remediation

• Why It Qualifies: Enhancing the accessibility of your mobile app by addressing design and functionality barriers qualifies as a creditable expense under the Disabled Access Credit. These efforts ensure that all users, including those with disabilities, can fully engage with your app.

Accessibility Training for Developers, Designers, Marketers, and Content Authors

• Why It Qualifies: Although training itself may not directly cover it, the skills your team gains from training can lead to qualifying activities for the Disabled Access Credit. For instance, if training results in the creation of accessible content or remediation of barriers, those actions could be eligible for the credit.

Remediation of PDFs

• Why It Qualifies: PDFs are widely used, but they often pose challenges for individuals using screen readers. Converting PDFs to an accessible format is an eligible expense as it helps remove communication barriers and can be claimed as part of the Disabled Access Credit.

Video Closed Captions and Audio Descriptions

• Why It Qualifies: Making video content accessible through closed captions and audio descriptions is essential for inclusivity. These services qualify as expenses under the Disabled Access Credit.

Steps to Claim the Disabled Access Credit for Small Businesses

Claiming the Disabled Access Credit is straightforward, but it requires meticulous documentation. Businesses must complete IRS Form 8826 to claim the credit and maintain detailed records of all eligible expenses. To ensure compliance with IRS rules and maximize your benefits, it’s advisable to consult with a tax professional, especially to properly claim the credit.

Conclusion: Make Accessibility a Priority

Investing in accessibility is not just about compliance—it’s a strategic move that can enhance your business’s profitability. By leveraging the Disabled Access Credit, you can make your business more inclusive while also benefiting financially. Whether you’re updating your website, remediating PDFs, or adding captions to your videos, these efforts are a win-win for both your business and your customers.

Disclaimer: Please note that we are not accountants or tax professionals. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered tax advice. It’s best to talk to a tax expert or accountant to find out if your expenses are eligible and to make sure you follow IRS rules.

Michael Harshbarger is an experienced project manager and accessibility consultant. He is passionate about helping businesses create inclusive digital experiences. With over ten years of experience in project management and accessibility, Michael established AccessibilityFirst Solutions LLC. Michael believes in promoting accessibility as a core business value. He thinks that inclusive design benefits not only those with disabilities but also enhances the user experience for everyone. Michael holds a Master’s degree in Project Management. He has successfully implemented accessibility programs for Fortune 100 companies. In his free time, Michael enjoys exploring the outdoors with his family and playing tabletop role-playing games.