VPAT or ACR: Which One Do Government Buyers Prefer in 2025?
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If you want government contracts in 2025, you need to know one thing. Do I need a VPAT or an ACR?
It is not just a rule anymore. It can decide if you get the deal or not. Government buyers check if your product meets accessibility standards. If you do not give the right documents, you can lose contracts to someone else.
This blog will explain VPAT accessibility. You will learn what buyers want and how to make sure you do not miss opportunities.
TL;DR: Government buyers in 2025 want ACRs (Accessibility Conformance Reports). A VPAT is just the blank template. An ACR is the completed, polished version based on that template. You will struggle to win government contracts without a proper ACR. ADACP is the best choice to prepare VPATs and ACRs that government buyers trust. Book your free consultation with ADACP to get started with your VPAT certification.
VPAT vs ACR
What is a VPAT?
A VPAT stands for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It is essentially a framework that helps vendors show how their product meets accessibility standards. These reports are based on rules like Section 508 in the U.S. and WCAG 2.1 or 2.2 internationally.
Related reading: What is a VPAT? Difference between a VPAT and an ACR
This blog includes the latest VPAT information, the VPA template example and all the basics to help you understand VPAT easily.
A VPAT is like a detailed questionnaire. It gives you a clear place to explain how your product works for people with disabilities. It helps buyers see if your product meets the rules before they decide to buy.
What is VPAT 2.5?
VPAT 2.5 is the latest Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It is updated in 2025 to show compliance against Section 508, WCAG 2.1/2.2, and EN 301 549. It features improved formatting, clearer reporting columns and explains testing methods.
VPAT 2.5 comes in versions for 508, WCAG, EU and international standards that communicate conformance to buyers. The latest updates about VPAT 2.5 can be found on this blog [VPAT 2.5 Update: What is New in the Latest Accessibility Template?]
What is an ACR?
Accessibility Conformance Report or ACR is the finished version of that questionnaire. It is the completed VPAT where you fill in real details about how your product works with accessibility standards.
Buyers use an ACR to understand if your product is ready for them. It is what turns your VPAT into a document they can trust.
To simplify:
VPAT = blank template
ACR = completed document buyers want to review
Below are two snapshots (Image 1 and Image 2) to help you understand the difference between a VPAT and an ACR. The first snapshot shows an empty VPAT for WCAG 2.1 Level A, Table 1 Success Criteria. The second snapshot shows the same VPAT filled out with real details, which becomes the ACR.
Source: https://www.itic.org/advocacy/resources/?policy=vpat
Source: https://assets.section508.gov/assets/files/acr/accessibility-of-ict-for-government-executives-v2.0.1-report-1.html
Which One Do Government Buyers Prefer in 2025?
Government buyers prefer ACRs due to 5 major reasons:
- Compliance proof: An ACR shows proof of accessibility.
- Product usability: It lets buyers see how your product works for all users.
- Highlights strengths and limits: It shows what your product can do and where it may have limits.
- Avoid issues later: It helps buyers avoid problems with compliance and legal issues.
- Timesaving: It also saves them time because buyers do not have to ask for more information.
A clear and accurate ACR gives you an advantage over your competitors. In 2025, many federal agencies won’t even move forward in the procurement process without seeing a completed ACR upfront.
Why the Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates matter more than ever?
Gone are the days when organizations used to think of accessibility as just a legal checkbox. Now it is part of the procurement policy. Agencies are under pressure to buy only from vendors who take accessibility seriously.
That is why RFPs (Requests for Proposal) in 2025 almost always demand an ACR before your bid is considered. Submitting just a VPAT or worse, nothing at all can push your proposal to the reject pile instantly.
If you want to avoid rejection and stay on the safe side, ADACP is the choice. We have over thirteen years of experience in accessibility. We do more than just fill out forms. We create the VPAT accessibility conformance reports that buyers can trust. This reduces risk and gives you a better chance to win contracts.
Schedule your free consultation with ADACP today.
Do I Still Need a VPAT?
Yes, you need the VPAT because it is the starting point. But it is not enough on its own. Government buyers will not accept a blank or incomplete template. They expect to see the ACR version, which is the VPAT completed with verified information.
Related reading: How to write a VPAT?
Side-by-Side Comparison: VPAT vs ACR
Why Do Buyers Ask for an ACR Instead of a VPAT?
Buyers prefer an ACR over a VPAT because it is complete and immediately usable. Instead of making assumptions, they can trust that your product has been thoroughly checked against accessibility standards, giving them confidence in its compliance.
How Can ADACP Help You Complete Your Accessibility Compliance Report (ACR) Quickly?
Many companies fail at accessibility reporting. They either copy and paste generic answers into the VPAT or submit incomplete ACRs that don’t satisfy buyers.
ADACP does it differently.
- We test your product thoroughly against Section 508 and WCAG standards.
- We prepare an accurate, professional ACR that government buyers trust.
- We guide you through remediation so your report reflects real accessibility improvements.
That is why ADACP is the go-to partner for 100+ organizations that are serious about winning government contracts.
Is VPAT Accessibility the Same as ACR Readiness?
No, VPAT compliance usually means you have filled out the template. But government buyers do not want that. They want the ACR version that reflects completed accessibility testing and documentation.
Conclusion
A VPAT is a rough draft which shows what you hope your product can do. An ACR is the real deal ready for buyers to use. And government buyers don’t want guesses; they want the ACR confidence.
Don’t stop at a VPAT if you are serious about winning government contracts. You will need a strong, accurate ACR which shows you reduce risk for buyers and your product is a clear choice.
Choose ADACP to make your bid stand out. Book a free VPAT consultation and we will help you create your deal-closing ACR.
FAQs About VPAT and ACR
1. Do all government contracts require an ACR?
In 2025, most federal and state contracts require vendors to provide an ACR at the proposal stage.
2. Can I create an ACR on my own?
You can, but without proper testing it may not stand up to buyer scrutiny. An inaccurate or incomplete ACR can harm your credibility.
3. How often should I update my ACR?
Every time you release a major update or new version of your product. This ensures buyers always have the most accurate view of your product’s accessibility.
4. Is an ACR legally binding?
An ACR is not a legal contract. But government buyers use it in compliance reviews, so submitting a false or misleading ACR can expose you to legal risks.
5. What is the link between Section 508 and ACRs?
Section 508 requires federal agencies to use accessible technology. ACRs are the documentation vendors provide to prove compliance.
6. Do small businesses need ACRs too?
Accessibility rules apply to businesses of all sizes if they want to work with government buyers.
7. How does WCAG tie into VPATs and ACRs?
Both VPATs and ACRs reference WCAG guidelines (2.1 and now 2.2) along with Section 508. Buyers use these standards to measure accessibility.
8. Can an ACR help me outside of government contracts?
Yes, large corporations, schools, and healthcare systems also request ACRs to make sure their vendors meet accessibility standards. ADACP can help with that. We make sure your product hits the required accessibility marks. We provide fast, practical fixes along with VPAT and ACR reports so you can get it done without missing the proposal deadline.
If you want government contracts in 2025, you need to know one thing. Do I need a VPAT or an ACR?
It is not just a rule anymore. It can decide if you get the deal or not. Government buyers check if your product meets accessibility standards. If you do not give the right documents, you can lose contracts to someone else.
This blog will explain VPAT accessibility. You will learn what buyers want and how to make sure you do not miss opportunities.
TL;DR: Government buyers in 2025 want ACRs (Accessibility Conformance Reports). A VPAT is just the blank template. An ACR is the completed, polished version based on that template. You will struggle to win government contracts without a proper ACR. ADACP is the best choice to prepare VPATs and ACRs that government buyers trust. Book your free consultation with ADACP to get started with your VPAT certification.
VPAT vs ACR
What is a VPAT?
A VPAT stands for Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It is essentially a framework that helps vendors show how their product meets accessibility standards. These reports are based on rules like Section 508 in the U.S. and WCAG 2.1 or 2.2 internationally.
Related reading: What is a VPAT? Difference between a VPAT and an ACR
This blog includes the latest VPAT information, the VPA template example and all the basics to help you understand VPAT easily.
A VPAT is like a detailed questionnaire. It gives you a clear place to explain how your product works for people with disabilities. It helps buyers see if your product meets the rules before they decide to buy.
What is VPAT 2.5?
VPAT 2.5 is the latest Voluntary Product Accessibility Template. It is updated in 2025 to show compliance against Section 508, WCAG 2.1/2.2, and EN 301 549. It features improved formatting, clearer reporting columns and explains testing methods.
VPAT 2.5 comes in versions for 508, WCAG, EU and international standards that communicate conformance to buyers. The latest updates about VPAT 2.5 can be found on this blog [VPAT 2.5 Update: What is New in the Latest Accessibility Template?]
What is an ACR?
Accessibility Conformance Report or ACR is the finished version of that questionnaire. It is the completed VPAT where you fill in real details about how your product works with accessibility standards.
Buyers use an ACR to understand if your product is ready for them. It is what turns your VPAT into a document they can trust.
To simplify:
VPAT = blank template
ACR = completed document buyers want to review
Below are two snapshots (Image 1 and Image 2) to help you understand the difference between a VPAT and an ACR. The first snapshot shows an empty VPAT for WCAG 2.1 Level A, Table 1 Success Criteria. The second snapshot shows the same VPAT filled out with real details, which becomes the ACR.
Source: https://www.itic.org/advocacy/resources/?policy=vpat
Source: https://assets.section508.gov/assets/files/acr/accessibility-of-ict-for-government-executives-v2.0.1-report-1.html
Which One Do Government Buyers Prefer in 2025?
Government buyers prefer ACRs due to 5 major reasons:
- Compliance proof: An ACR shows proof of accessibility.
- Product usability: It lets buyers see how your product works for all users.
- Highlights strengths and limits: It shows what your product can do and where it may have limits.
- Avoid issues later: It helps buyers avoid problems with compliance and legal issues.
- Timesaving: It also saves them time because buyers do not have to ask for more information.
A clear and accurate ACR gives you an advantage over your competitors. In 2025, many federal agencies won’t even move forward in the procurement process without seeing a completed ACR upfront.
Why the Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates matter more than ever?
Gone are the days when organizations used to think of accessibility as just a legal checkbox. Now it is part of the procurement policy. Agencies are under pressure to buy only from vendors who take accessibility seriously.
That is why RFPs (Requests for Proposal) in 2025 almost always demand an ACR before your bid is considered. Submitting just a VPAT or worse, nothing at all can push your proposal to the reject pile instantly.
If you want to avoid rejection and stay on the safe side, ADACP is the choice. We have over thirteen years of experience in accessibility. We do more than just fill out forms. We create the VPAT accessibility conformance reports that buyers can trust. This reduces risk and gives you a better chance to win contracts.
Schedule your free consultation with ADACP today.
Do I Still Need a VPAT?
Yes, you need the VPAT because it is the starting point. But it is not enough on its own. Government buyers will not accept a blank or incomplete template. They expect to see the ACR version, which is the VPAT completed with verified information.
Related reading: How to write a VPAT?
Side-by-Side Comparison: VPAT vs ACR
Why Do Buyers Ask for an ACR Instead of a VPAT?
Buyers prefer an ACR over a VPAT because it is complete and immediately usable. Instead of making assumptions, they can trust that your product has been thoroughly checked against accessibility standards, giving them confidence in its compliance.
How Can ADACP Help You Complete Your Accessibility Compliance Report (ACR) Quickly?
Many companies fail at accessibility reporting. They either copy and paste generic answers into the VPAT or submit incomplete ACRs that don’t satisfy buyers.
ADACP does it differently.
- We test your product thoroughly against Section 508 and WCAG standards.
- We prepare an accurate, professional ACR that government buyers trust.
- We guide you through remediation so your report reflects real accessibility improvements.
That is why ADACP is the go-to partner for 100+ organizations that are serious about winning government contracts.
Is VPAT Accessibility the Same as ACR Readiness?
No, VPAT compliance usually means you have filled out the template. But government buyers do not want that. They want the ACR version that reflects completed accessibility testing and documentation.
Conclusion
A VPAT is a rough draft which shows what you hope your product can do. An ACR is the real deal ready for buyers to use. And government buyers don’t want guesses; they want the ACR confidence.
Don’t stop at a VPAT if you are serious about winning government contracts. You will need a strong, accurate ACR which shows you reduce risk for buyers and your product is a clear choice.
Choose ADACP to make your bid stand out. Book a free VPAT consultation and we will help you create your deal-closing ACR.
FAQs About VPAT and ACR
1. Do all government contracts require an ACR?
In 2025, most federal and state contracts require vendors to provide an ACR at the proposal stage.
2. Can I create an ACR on my own?
You can, but without proper testing it may not stand up to buyer scrutiny. An inaccurate or incomplete ACR can harm your credibility.
3. How often should I update my ACR?
Every time you release a major update or new version of your product. This ensures buyers always have the most accurate view of your product’s accessibility.
4. Is an ACR legally binding?
An ACR is not a legal contract. But government buyers use it in compliance reviews, so submitting a false or misleading ACR can expose you to legal risks.
5. What is the link between Section 508 and ACRs?
Section 508 requires federal agencies to use accessible technology. ACRs are the documentation vendors provide to prove compliance.
6. Do small businesses need ACRs too?
Accessibility rules apply to businesses of all sizes if they want to work with government buyers.
7. How does WCAG tie into VPATs and ACRs?
Both VPATs and ACRs reference WCAG guidelines (2.1 and now 2.2) along with Section 508. Buyers use these standards to measure accessibility.
8. Can an ACR help me outside of government contracts?
Yes, large corporations, schools, and healthcare systems also request ACRs to make sure their vendors meet accessibility standards. ADACP can help with that. We make sure your product hits the required accessibility marks. We provide fast, practical fixes along with VPAT and ACR reports so you can get it done without missing the proposal deadline.
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