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Penalties for non-compliance with the European Accessibility Act (EAA)

The EAA isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a game-changer for digital accessibility. Missing the June 28, 2025, compliance deadline can mean more than a slap on the wrist.

Financial penalties, legal consequences, and even reputational hits are on the table for businesses that fail to meet the standards.

Let’s break it down so you know what’s at stake.

1. Financial penalties

Nobody likes fines, and the EAA comes with some heavy ones. Each EU Member State determines its own penalties, but here’s what you can expect:

  • Fines: Depending on the violation, these could range from manageable to massive. Bigger companies with widespread issues may face penalties in the millions.
  • Daily penalties: For ongoing non-compliance, some countries impose daily fines until issues are resolved.

2. Legal action

Non-compliance doesn’t just hit your wallet—it can lead to lawsuits and enforcement actions.

  • Regulatory enforcement: National authorities will investigate complaints and can issue warnings or escalate to court action.
  • Civil litigation: Individuals affected by inaccessible services can sue for discrimination or lack of access.

3. Loss of market access

If you’re a non-EU business selling in Europe, the stakes are even higher. Failing to comply could mean losing access to the EU market entirely.

For example, a U.S.-based company could be blocked from selling in the EU if its platform doesn’t meet accessibility standards.

4. Reputational damage

Even if the fines don’t hurt, your brand might. Accessibility is becoming a core expectation, and falling short could lead to public backlash.

  • Negative publicity: Customers notice when businesses fail to prioritize inclusion. Social media can amplify complaints, leading to boycotts or lost trust.
  • Lost customers: Inaccessible websites and apps alienate a significant audience

Why you should act now

Accessibility is no quick fix. Starting early means:

  • Thorough planning: Accessibility audits, redesigns, and testing take time, especially for complex systems.
  • Avoiding rush jobs: Last-minute fixes rarely work well and could leave gaps in compliance.
  • Leading by example: Demonstrating a commitment to inclusion builds trust and loyalty with your audience.
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