Are You Allowed to Bid for Federal Contracts Without a Section 508 VPAT ACR?
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You Could Lose the Deal Before You Even Pitch!
You spent months weeks preparing your proposal for a massive federal contract. Your solution is innovative, your pricing is competitive and your team is experienced. You hit Submit on the proposal form only to find out you were disqualified. Reason for rejection: You did not attach a VPAT ACR showing Section 508 compliance.
The same is happening across industries, from software vendors to hardware suppliers and digital service providers. Section 508 has become a legal requirement and the VPAT Accessibility Conformance Report is your proof of compliance.
The question is: Can you afford to skip it?
TL;DR – Quick Summary
What is a VPAT ACR?
A VPAT ACR is short for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template Accessibility Conformance Report. This document explain show accessible your digital product is for people with disabilities. When you try to sell a website, a mobile app, software, or even hardware to the federal government, they want to know if it works well for everyone. There should be proof of accessibility solutions like screen readers, keyboard navigation or other assistive tech in the documentation.
Source: https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-24-107031-highlights.pdf
A VPAT report shows how your product conforms to the following accessibility standards:
- Section 508 (U.S. law)
- WCAG 2.2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
- EN 301 549 (European standard)
The VPAT is a blank template and it become san ACR when it is filled out. This report says where your product meets the rules and where it does not. This includes details based on Section 508, WCAG, and EN 301 549 for European compliance.
In short: the ACR is your proof of effort and transparency. It tells government buyers, “We care about accessibility, nd here are is the proofs of it.”
Want to read more about the parts of a VPAT and how to fill it out the right way? Check out our full blog on VPAT and ACR essentials.
Can You Technically Submit a Federal Bid Without a VPAT ACR?
Technically you can but practically you should not. Most government RFPs clearly state that accessibility documentation is required and in most cases, you will be disqualified by not providing one..
Here is a table outlining the GSA(General Services Administration) RFP requirements:
What happens if you skip VPAT Accessibility reporting?
You are taking a big risk if you do not submit a VPAT ACR when bidding for federal contracts. A bipartisan group of U.S. senators recently asked the GAO to investigate whether the federal government is complying with Section 508 requirements. Scrutiny over agencies prioritizing accessibility in technology procurement underscores how documentation like VPAT ACRs has become important in buying decisions.
You might still be able to place a bid, but you won’t make it past the first round. Federal agencies are required to follow Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. They cannot legally buy products that are not accessible. Your proposal will likely be tossed aside even if everything else looks great.
Federal buyers talk and so do watchdog groups and accessibility advocates. If your product is flagged as inaccessible or non-compliant, that can follow your brand for a long time and damage your reputation. You may even open yourself up to legal complaints or FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) exposure if someone questions your commitment to accessibility.
Bottom line: skipping the VPAT ACR might seem easier now but it could cost you millions in missed contracts later. For a clear breakdown of the VPAT creation process, explore the detailed guide in this blog “How to Create an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR)”. We will link this blog here once it is published.
What If My Product Doesn’t Fully Comply Yet?
Ignoring a VPAT altogether is a red flag in federal procurement. So no need to panic if your ICT is not fully compliant yet. You can:
- Submit a partial ACR and note exceptions. You can check out this sample VPAT to see how exceptions and partial fulfillment fulfilment notes are properly documented.
- Include an accessibility improvement roadmap.
- Make ADACP your accessibility partner for audits and update your offering.
Which Industries Must Take VPAT ACRs Seriously?
VPAT ACRs i are expected with the proposal submission if your industry appears here.
Final Thoughts
Winning federal contracts is tough. Don’t let accessibility be your Achilles’ heel. You might want to take shortcuts, but remember a VPAT is a government bidding requirement. While you tried saving time, your competitors got a proper, accurate VPAT and increased their chances of winning the proposal. Don’t let a missing or poorly written ACR cost you the contract.
A clean, professional VPAT ACR tells buyers that you are compliant and ready to deliver.
If you need help with VPAT assessments or writing then partner with ADACP. We live and breathe accessibility. Our experts can evaluate your product and write accurate ACRs. Schedule a free VPAT consultation today to ensure your bid meets compliance.
FAQs on VPAT for Federal Vendors
1. Is a VPAT ACR legally required for all federal bids?
A VPAT is strongly recommended. Most federal agencies require a VPAT Accessibility Conformance Report as part of the RFP submission process. Your proposal may be rejected before it is even reviewed if you don’t include one. A VPAT signals that your product is compliant and ready for use by people with disabilities. Protecting the rights of the disabled population is a major government priority.
2. Can I write a VPAT ACR myself?
VPATs require thorough awareness of accessibility standards, including WCAG, Revised 508, and EN 301 549. A small error or misstatement could make your report invalid and result in a contract loss. That is why most vendors hire experts who perform audits and validate results. Expert services ensure their ACR stands up under procurement scrutiny.
3. Does WCAG 2.2 replace Section 508?
Section 508 is a federal law that mandates accessible technology for government use. WCAG 2.2 is a set of detailed web accessibility guidelines. Section 508 now references WCAG 2.2 for websites and apps. Though it also covers documents, kiosks, hardware and tele communications equipment.
4. How often should I update my ACR?
You should update your ACR every time your product undergoes major changes. Do not delay updating the ACR after UI redesigns or feature upgrades. Also, keep an eye on evolving standards like WCAG. For example, if you previously followed WCAG 2.1, now you will need a new VPAT for WCAG 2.2 compliance. Many companies refresh their ACRs annually to stay ahead of audit risks.
5. What happens if my VPAT shows partial compliance?
Partial compliance is okay as long as it is clearly documented. Federal buyers expect transparency. You must use the VPAT template to specify which criteria are Supported, Partially Supported or Not Supported along with comments. Just make sure you explain your roadmap for full compliance. Honest ACRs often win more trust than misleading ones.
You Could Lose the Deal Before You Even Pitch!
You spent months weeks preparing your proposal for a massive federal contract. Your solution is innovative, your pricing is competitive and your team is experienced. You hit Submit on the proposal form only to find out you were disqualified. Reason for rejection: You did not attach a VPAT ACR showing Section 508 compliance.
The same is happening across industries, from software vendors to hardware suppliers and digital service providers. Section 508 has become a legal requirement and the VPAT Accessibility Conformance Report is your proof of compliance.
The question is: Can you afford to skip it?
TL;DR – Quick Summary
What is a VPAT ACR?
A VPAT ACR is short for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template Accessibility Conformance Report. This document explain show accessible your digital product is for people with disabilities. When you try to sell a website, a mobile app, software, or even hardware to the federal government, they want to know if it works well for everyone. There should be proof of accessibility solutions like screen readers, keyboard navigation or other assistive tech in the documentation.
Source: https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-24-107031-highlights.pdf
A VPAT report shows how your product conforms to the following accessibility standards:
- Section 508 (U.S. law)
- WCAG 2.2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
- EN 301 549 (European standard)
The VPAT is a blank template and it become san ACR when it is filled out. This report says where your product meets the rules and where it does not. This includes details based on Section 508, WCAG, and EN 301 549 for European compliance.
In short: the ACR is your proof of effort and transparency. It tells government buyers, “We care about accessibility, nd here are is the proofs of it.”
Want to read more about the parts of a VPAT and how to fill it out the right way? Check out our full blog on VPAT and ACR essentials.
Can You Technically Submit a Federal Bid Without a VPAT ACR?
Technically you can but practically you should not. Most government RFPs clearly state that accessibility documentation is required and in most cases, you will be disqualified by not providing one..
Here is a table outlining the GSA(General Services Administration) RFP requirements:
What happens if you skip VPAT Accessibility reporting?
You are taking a big risk if you do not submit a VPAT ACR when bidding for federal contracts. A bipartisan group of U.S. senators recently asked the GAO to investigate whether the federal government is complying with Section 508 requirements. Scrutiny over agencies prioritizing accessibility in technology procurement underscores how documentation like VPAT ACRs has become important in buying decisions.
You might still be able to place a bid, but you won’t make it past the first round. Federal agencies are required to follow Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. They cannot legally buy products that are not accessible. Your proposal will likely be tossed aside even if everything else looks great.
Federal buyers talk and so do watchdog groups and accessibility advocates. If your product is flagged as inaccessible or non-compliant, that can follow your brand for a long time and damage your reputation. You may even open yourself up to legal complaints or FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) exposure if someone questions your commitment to accessibility.
Bottom line: skipping the VPAT ACR might seem easier now but it could cost you millions in missed contracts later. For a clear breakdown of the VPAT creation process, explore the detailed guide in this blog “How to Create an Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR)”. We will link this blog here once it is published.
What If My Product Doesn’t Fully Comply Yet?
Ignoring a VPAT altogether is a red flag in federal procurement. So no need to panic if your ICT is not fully compliant yet. You can:
- Submit a partial ACR and note exceptions. You can check out this sample VPAT to see how exceptions and partial fulfillment fulfilment notes are properly documented.
- Include an accessibility improvement roadmap.
- Make ADACP your accessibility partner for audits and update your offering.
Which Industries Must Take VPAT ACRs Seriously?
VPAT ACRs i are expected with the proposal submission if your industry appears here.
Final Thoughts
Winning federal contracts is tough. Don’t let accessibility be your Achilles’ heel. You might want to take shortcuts, but remember a VPAT is a government bidding requirement. While you tried saving time, your competitors got a proper, accurate VPAT and increased their chances of winning the proposal. Don’t let a missing or poorly written ACR cost you the contract.
A clean, professional VPAT ACR tells buyers that you are compliant and ready to deliver.
If you need help with VPAT assessments or writing then partner with ADACP. We live and breathe accessibility. Our experts can evaluate your product and write accurate ACRs. Schedule a free VPAT consultation today to ensure your bid meets compliance.
FAQs on VPAT for Federal Vendors
1. Is a VPAT ACR legally required for all federal bids?
A VPAT is strongly recommended. Most federal agencies require a VPAT Accessibility Conformance Report as part of the RFP submission process. Your proposal may be rejected before it is even reviewed if you don’t include one. A VPAT signals that your product is compliant and ready for use by people with disabilities. Protecting the rights of the disabled population is a major government priority.
2. Can I write a VPAT ACR myself?
VPATs require thorough awareness of accessibility standards, including WCAG, Revised 508, and EN 301 549. A small error or misstatement could make your report invalid and result in a contract loss. That is why most vendors hire experts who perform audits and validate results. Expert services ensure their ACR stands up under procurement scrutiny.
3. Does WCAG 2.2 replace Section 508?
Section 508 is a federal law that mandates accessible technology for government use. WCAG 2.2 is a set of detailed web accessibility guidelines. Section 508 now references WCAG 2.2 for websites and apps. Though it also covers documents, kiosks, hardware and tele communications equipment.
4. How often should I update my ACR?
You should update your ACR every time your product undergoes major changes. Do not delay updating the ACR after UI redesigns or feature upgrades. Also, keep an eye on evolving standards like WCAG. For example, if you previously followed WCAG 2.1, now you will need a new VPAT for WCAG 2.2 compliance. Many companies refresh their ACRs annually to stay ahead of audit risks.
5. What happens if my VPAT shows partial compliance?
Partial compliance is okay as long as it is clearly documented. Federal buyers expect transparency. You must use the VPAT template to specify which criteria are Supported, Partially Supported or Not Supported along with comments. Just make sure you explain your roadmap for full compliance. Honest ACRs often win more trust than misleading ones.
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