Yes, the dreaded tax season is upon us; but what if I told you that making your website more accessible could give your tax bill a little break?
The Foremost team has learned all about the ins and outs of web accessibility and the ADA Tax Credit. And as it turns out, while making your website accessible is absolutely the right thing to do, it also comes with the added benefit of a potential tax break.
With the ADA Tax Credit, businesses can offset up to $5,000 per year in expenses for improving web accessibility, such as tools, consulting services, adaptive technology, and more. As experts in ADA compliance, including website testing and development, we can help you navigate this process and put some extra cash back in your pocket this tax season!
What is the ADA Tax Credit?
The ADA Tax Credit is a program that helps businesses offset costs related to making their websites accessible. This credit can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, capped at $5,000 per year. So, if your business has less than 30 employees or made under $1 million in revenue, you could be eligible for this valuable tax benefit!
Why Web Accessibility Matters
More than 61 million Americans live with some form of disability. This makes web accessibility an absolute necessity, as everyone, no matter their physical or cognitive abilities, should be able to use and navigate your site with ease. But beyond the inclusivity aspect, accessible websites can offer plenty of meaningful benefits for your business:
- Increased Reach: Making your website accessible opens it up to a wider audience.
- SEO Benefits: Accessible sites are often easier for search engines to crawl and index.
- Improved User Experience: Accessibility enhancements often lead to a better overall user experience.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring your website is accessible can help you avoid potential legal issues under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What You Need to Know about the ADA Tax Credit
Eligibility for the ADA Tax Credit
Businesses with 30 or fewer full-time employees or revenues under $1 million can qualify for the ADA Tax Credit. If you meet these criteria, you can claim the credit annually for expenses related to improving web accessibility. This includes the use of web accessibility tools like consulting services, adaptive technology, and removing physical barriers.
Actionable Deadlines to Remember
Make sure you file your claim by these dates so you don’t miss out on the tax savings:
- S-Corps and Partnerships: March 17
- Personal Tax Returns: April 15
Nonprofits and Other Considerations
If you run a nonprofit or a 501(c)(3) organization, the rules for claiming this credit may differ slightly. You might want to consult with your tax professional to make sure you’re correctly maximizing your benefits.
How to Get Started
Here's what you can do to take advantage of the ADA Tax Credit:
- Consult with a Tax Professional: Before you make any claims, you should talk to your tax advisor. They can help you understand exactly what qualifies as an eligible expense.
- Use a Free Accessibility Scan: If you're unsure about your website's compliance status, start by running a free website accessibility assessment. This tool can identify areas where your site may not be meeting accessibility standards.
- Leverage the Credit for a More Inclusive Website: If your business qualifies, apply for the ADA Tax Credit today to help offset the cost of making your website more inclusive! Our team can walk you through the process.
Lower Your Tax Bill Today!
Website accessibility is more than compliance; it’s an investment in the future of your business and the broader community. Taking advantage of the ADA Tax Credit can make those accessibility improvements much more affordable and position your business as one that genuinely values inclusivity.
Foremost Media is passionate about creating websites that are accessible to all, and we’ve spent over 20 years mastering the craft! Please contact us for a consultation or a free website compliance assessment so that, together, we can make the web a more accessible place for everyone!