How to Create Accessible WordPress Forms for Everyone

Creating accessible forms on WordPress websites isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for ensuring all users can interact with your content.

As technology continues to improve, accessibility has moved from a nice-to-have feature to a critical requirement for businesses looking to serve all customers equally.

Table of Content

Why Accessibility Matters for WordPress Forms

Forms are often the primary way users engage with our websites—whether they’re contacting our business, signing up for services, or making purchases. Yet many WordPress sites still implement forms that create unnecessary barriers for users with disabilities.

According to recent accessibility research, 97.4% of websites have detectable WCAG 2.1 failures, with form-related issues being among the most common problems.

In Canada specifically, the Accessible Canada Act has established requirements that make web accessibility not just a good practice, but increasingly a legal necessity for many businesses.

When users encounter inaccessible forms, they’re effectively shut out from engaging with our business. This isn’t just a matter of losing potential customers—it’s about creating digital discrimination that affects real people’s lives.

Key Principles of Accessible Form Design

To create truly accessible forms in WordPress, we need to focus on several critical areas that ensure all users can successfully complete and submit our forms.

Clear Form Structure and Navigation

The foundation of an accessible form starts with a logical, well-organized structure. Here’s how we implement this:

• Group related form fields using fieldset and legend elements
• Create a logical tab order that follows the visual flow of the form
• Provide clear instructions at the beginning of the form
• Break complex forms into manageable steps or sections

When users can easily understand the organization of your form, they’re much more likely to complete it successfully, regardless of how they’re navigating your site.

Properly Associated Labels

One of the most common accessibility issues with forms is missing or improperly associated labels. Every form field must have a descriptive label that’s programmatically connected to the input element.

This connection ensures screen readers properly announce the purpose of each field to users who can’t see the visual layout.

Informative Error Messages

When users make mistakes in forms, clear error messaging becomes crucial. Accessible error handling includes:

• Descriptive error messages that explain what went wrong
• Error messages placed near the relevant field
• Using multiple cues (color, text, and icons) to indicate errors
• Ensuring screen readers announce errors when they occur

For example, rather than simply highlighting a field in red, we need to provide specific guidance: “Please enter a valid email address in the format example@domain.com.”

Implementing Accessible Forms in WordPress

Now let’s explore the practical steps for creating accessible forms on your WordPress site.

Choosing the Right Form Plugin

The foundation of accessible forms on WordPress usually begins with selecting the right form plugin. Not all plugins are created equal when it comes to accessibility features.

We recommend these accessibility-friendly options:

• WPForms: Offers strong accessibility features out of the box and continues to improve
• Gravity Forms: Has made significant strides in accessibility compliance
• Formidable Forms: Provides good accessible defaults and customization options

When evaluating form plugins, look specifically for features like proper label associations, ARIA attribute support, keyboard navigation, and compatibility with screen readers. Super Forms is another option that specifically highlights WCAG compliance in their marketing.

Essential Configuration Settings

After selecting a plugin, proper configuration is essential. Here are the key settings we focus on:

• Enable form field labels for all inputs
• Configure required field indicators (both visually and in the markup)
• Set up appropriate tab index values if the natural flow needs adjustment
• Configure error messages to be descriptive and helpful

We also ensure placeholders are used correctly—as hints rather than replacements for labels—since placeholders disappear when users start typing and can cause confusion.

Form Field Considerations

Different form field types present unique accessibility challenges. Here’s how we approach common field types:

Text and Number Fields

• Provide clear instruction text that explains any specific format requirements
• Use the appropriate HTML5 input types (email, tel, number, etc.)
• Include example formats for complex inputs like phone numbers or dates

Selection Elements (Dropdowns, Checkboxes, Radio Buttons)

• Ensure sufficient spacing between options for touch users
• Group related options using fieldset and legend elements
• Make sure selections are clear visually and programmatically

File Uploads

• Clearly state acceptable file types and size limits
• Provide feedback when files are successfully uploaded
• Ensure the upload button is keyboard accessible

For all field types, we focus on providing clear instructions before the user interacts with the field, rather than relying on help text that might only appear after an error occurs.

Advanced Accessibility Techniques

Beyond the basics, there are several advanced techniques that can significantly improve form accessibility.

ARIA Attributes and Roles

ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes provide additional information to assistive technologies about the purpose and state of form elements:

• Use aria-required=”true” to indicate mandatory fields
• Implement aria-describedby to connect error messages with their fields
• Apply aria-invalid=”true” when validation errors occur
• Use aria-live regions to announce dynamic updates to form content

While some WordPress form plugins automatically include these attributes, others may require custom configuration or code.

Keyboard Navigation Enhancement

Not all users can use a mouse, making keyboard navigation essential:

• Test all form functionality using only the keyboard (Tab, Enter, Space, arrow keys)
• Ensure focus states are clearly visible with high-contrast outlines
• Check that any custom form elements like datepickers are keyboard operable
• Verify that error messages can be accessed via keyboard

A fully keyboard-accessible form ensures that users with motor disabilities can complete your forms independently.

Custom Validation Messages

Default validation messages in browsers or plugins are often generic. For better accessibility, we:

• Customize error messages to be specific to each field’s requirements
• Position error messages immediately after the related field
• Use multiple cues (text, color, icons) to indicate errors
• Keep error messages clear, concise, and actionable

For example, instead of “Invalid input,” a better message would be “Please enter your phone number in the format (XXX) XXX-XXXX.”

Creating Gender-Inclusive and Culturally Sensitive Forms

True accessibility extends beyond technical considerations to include creating forms that respect all users’ identities and backgrounds.

Gender-Inclusive Options

When collecting gender information (which should only be done when necessary), we recommend:

• Providing an open text field rather than limited binary options
• If using predetermined options, include non-binary choices
• Always include a “prefer not to say” option
• Explain why you’re collecting this information

According to research on inclusive forms, these practices not only improve accessibility but also increase form completion rates by making users feel respected and included.

Language Considerations

In Canada’s multilingual environment, language accessibility is particularly important:

• Offer forms in multiple languages when serving diverse communities
• Allow users to easily switch languages within the form
• Use clear, plain language that avoids idioms or culturally specific references
• Consider offering help options in multiple languages

According to Statistics Canada, over 22% of Canadians speak a language other than English or French at home, making multilingual support a significant aspect of accessibility.

Testing WordPress Forms for Accessibility

Creating accessible forms is only half the battle—thorough testing is essential to ensure they work as intended for all users.

Manual Testing Techniques

We always perform these manual tests on our forms:

• Complete the entire form using only keyboard navigation
• Test with screen readers like NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access), JAWS, or VoiceOver
• Verify that error messages are announced appropriately
• Check that all required fields are clearly indicated
• Test at multiple zoom levels (up to 200%)

These hands-on tests often reveal issues that automated tools might miss, particularly around user experience and flow.

Automated Testing Tools

While not a replacement for manual testing, these tools can help identify common issues:

• WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool)
• axe by Deque
• Lighthouse in Chrome DevTools
• WordPress-specific plugins like WP Accessibility

We’ve found that combining automated tools with manual testing provides the most comprehensive evaluation of form accessibility.

User Testing

The most valuable feedback comes from real users with disabilities:

• Invite users who rely on assistive technologies to test your forms
• Observe without interfering as they complete tasks
• Gather feedback about pain points and areas for improvement
• Implement changes based on their experiences

This direct feedback is invaluable for creating truly accessible experiences rather than just technically compliant ones.

Troubleshooting Common Form Accessibility Issues

Even with careful implementation, accessibility issues can arise. Here are solutions to common problems we encounter:

Form Validation Challenges

When form validation causes accessibility problems:

• Ensure error messages are programmatically associated with their fields
• Check that focus moves to the first error when validation fails
• Verify that the form retains user-entered data after validation
• Test that inline validation doesn’t prematurely trigger for empty required fields

If your form plugin doesn’t handle these aspects well, you might need custom code or a different solution.

CAPTCHA Alternatives

Traditional CAPTCHAs can be inaccessible to many users with disabilities. Instead, we recommend:

• Honeypot techniques (invisible fields that only bots complete)
• Time-based challenges (measuring how quickly forms are completed)
• More accessible CAPTCHA alternatives like simple math problems
• If using reCAPTCHA, implement the most accessible version available

These approaches can reduce spam submissions while maintaining accessibility for all users.

Fixing Plugin Limitations

When your chosen plugin has accessibility limitations:

• Contact the plugin developer to request accessibility improvements
• Use CSS to enhance visual accessibility aspects
• Add custom JavaScript to improve keyboard navigation or screen reader support
• Consider switching to a more accessible alternative if issues are severe

In some cases, small custom code adjustments can significantly improve an otherwise good plugin’s accessibility.

Maintaining Accessibility Through WordPress Updates

Creating accessible forms isn’t a one-time task—it requires ongoing attention.

Monitoring Plugin Updates

Plugin updates can sometimes introduce new accessibility issues:

• Test forms after every plugin update
• Read release notes for accessibility-related changes
• Maintain a testing environment to verify updates before applying to live sites
• Follow plugin developers on social media or forums for accessibility announcements

This ongoing vigilance helps prevent accessibility regressions when software updates occur.

Documentation and Training

For businesses with multiple content creators, documentation and training are essential:

• Create accessibility guidelines specific to your WordPress forms
• Document the correct process for creating new forms
• Train team members on accessibility principles and testing
• Include accessibility checks in your content review process

These steps ensure that accessibility remains a priority even as team members change or new forms are created.

Beyond Basic Forms: Advanced Accessibility Use Cases

As your WordPress site evolves, you may need to implement more complex form functionality while maintaining accessibility.

Multi-Page Forms

For longer forms that span multiple steps:

• Provide clear progress indicators that work with screen readers
• Save user data between steps to prevent frustration if errors occur
• Allow users to review all entries before final submission
• Ensure error messages persist across page transitions when needed

In our experience, well-designed multi-page forms can actually improve accessibility by breaking complex processes into manageable chunks.

Dynamic Content Loading

When forms include conditional logic or dynamic elements:

• Use aria-live regions to announce content changes
• Ensure focus management guides users to newly displayed content
• Provide clear messaging when content changes based on user selections
• Test dynamic elements thoroughly with keyboard navigation and screen readers

These practices ensure that users aren’t confused when form elements appear or disappear based on their input.

Complex Selection Interfaces

For advanced selection mechanisms like date pickers, sliders, or autocomplete fields:

• Ensure all interactive elements are keyboard accessible
• Provide text alternatives for visual selection mechanisms
• Allow direct text input as an alternative to visual selection
• Test complex widgets with multiple assistive technologies

Often, the most accessible solution is to offer both an enhanced visual interface and a simple text input alternative.

Business Benefits of Accessible Forms

Implementing accessible forms isn’t just about compliance—it offers significant business advantages.

Expanded Market Reach

According to Canadian statistics, approximately 22% of the population has a disability. By creating accessible forms, you’re opening your business to a substantial market segment that competitors might be ignoring.

This inclusive approach can significantly impact your bottom line. Our research shows that businesses implementing accessibility best practices see an average increase of 15-20% in form conversions.

Reduced Legal Risk

With Canada’s Accessible Canada Act and similar legislation in other countries, inaccessible websites increasingly face legal challenges. By proactively addressing accessibility, you’re not just doing the right thing—you’re protecting your business from potential complaints and lawsuits.

Improved User Experience for Everyone

The principles of accessible design ultimately benefit all users, not just those with disabilities:

• Clear form labeling helps everyone understand what information is needed
• Good contrast and readable text reduce eye strain for all users
• Logical form flow and helpful error messages reduce frustration universally
• Keyboard accessibility benefits power users and those with temporary impairments

This universally improved experience translates to higher conversion rates, increased form completions, and better customer satisfaction.

Resources for Ongoing Learning

Accessibility is changing rapidly – here are some resources to help you stay current:

Guidelines and Standards

• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1
• Accessible Canada Act requirements
• WAI-ARIA Authoring Practices

WordPress-Specific Resources

• Our guide to contact forms in WordPress
• WPLift’s accessibility improvement guide
• The WordPress Accessibility Team’s documentation

Testing Tools and Services

• Browser extensions like WAVE, axe, and Lighthouse
• Screen readers for testing (NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
• Specialized testing services if budget permits

These resources can help you stay current with best practices and continue improving your WordPress forms’ accessibility over time.

Conclusion: Accessibility as an Ongoing Commitment

Implementing accessibility-friendly forms in WordPress isn’t a one-time task but an ongoing commitment to inclusive design. By following the principles and techniques we’ve outlined, you can create forms that truly welcome all users, regardless of their abilities or how they access the web.

As we continue to build and maintain WordPress sites, let’s remember that accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating truly universal experiences that honour the diversity of human ability and experience.

The effort invested in making your forms accessible pays dividends not just in expanded market reach and reduced legal risk, but in the fundamental satisfaction of knowing your digital presence truly serves everyone.

If you need assistance implementing these principles on your WordPress site, our accessibility experts are ready to help ensure your forms—and your entire website—provide an inclusive experience for all users.