Accessible PDFs: Make Every Document Count

Let’s face it — PDFs are the go-to format for everything from eBooks to brochures to reports.

But here’s the problem: most PDFs are not built with accessibility in mind. That means millions of people using assistive technologies might never be able to read them.

An inaccessible PDF is not just a technical glitch — it is a barrier. And the good news? It is fixable.

What Makes an Accessible PDF?

A truly accessible PDF should allow all users to:

• Navigate using only a keyboard

• Hear the content in the right order using screen readers

• Understand the layout with proper headings and structure

• Access alt text for visuals

• Fill out forms smoothly

Imagine listening to a report that says “image... untagged content... image...”

That is what many users deal with when PDFs are not inclusive.

Understanding Accessible PDFs: This image illustrates the concept of accessible PDFs, featuring symbols representing text-to-speech, keyboard navigation, and audio descriptions, highlighting features that enhance usability for individuals with disabilities.

Top Mistakes That Break Accessibility

Illustration highlighting common accessibility issues, including missing tags, lack of alt text on images, poor reading order, and scanned image-only PDFs.

Here is what to watch out for (and fix!):

• No Tags = No Structure

  Screen readers need tags to follow your content.

• No Alt Text

  If images are missing descriptions, users miss context.

• Weird Reading Order

  Columns, sidebars, and visuals can jumble the flow.

• Unlabeled Form Fields

  If a user cannot tell what to type — they are stuck.

• Poor Contrast + Tiny Fonts

  Difficult to read = easy to ignore.

Your Action Plan: Make PDFs That Include Everyone

Here is how you start:

• Design Smart from the Start

  Use accessible templates in Word or InDesign. It is way easier to build accessibility in than to bolt it on later.

• Tag Everything

  Headings, paragraphs, lists, tables — all need tags. Use Adobe Acrobat or accessibility tools to get it done right.

• Alt Text is Non-Negotiable

  Images must have helpful descriptions — or be marked decorative if they are just eye candy.

• Fix the Reading Order

  Make sure assistive tools read the content in the same logical order it appears on screen.

• Label Every Form Field

  From name fields to dropdowns — users should always know what they are filling out.

• Check Contrast and Font Size

  Low-vision users will thank you (and so will your legal team).

Comparison of an inaccessible PDF without tags or headings and an accessible PDF featuring structured content, headings, and images.

Not Sure Where to Start? Let’s Talk

If your team publishes PDFs regularly — forms, contracts, reports — it is worth doing it right.

At ElevateX Labs, we help you turn inaccessible PDFs into clean, compliant, and inclusive documents. Whether you need remediation or want accessible templates built for your workflow — we have your back.

Want help making your PDFs accessible?

👉 Schedule a Consultation | 🌐 Visit ElevateX Labs