Email Accessibility: An Often-Forgotten Channel
Emails are a major communication channel. While RGAA doesn't directly cover emails, WCAG best practices fully apply. An inaccessible email excludes assistive technology users.
Accessible HTML Email Structure
Add lang="fr" to the HTML tag, use role="presentation" on layout tables, structure with headings and semantic elements. Email HTML is constrained (no JavaScript, limited CSS) but accessibility is possible.
Images in Emails
All informative images need descriptive alt text (emails must be understandable with images blocked), decorative images need empty alt, avoid text in images, and prefer HTML/CSS "bulletproof" buttons over image CTAs.
Contrast and Colors
Maintain 4.5:1 ratio for normal text, underline links in addition to coloring them, test in dark mode, and always define both background and text colors.
Plain Text Version
Always offer a plain text (multipart MIME) alternative to HTML — some users prefer it, some screen readers work better with it, and it helps with spam filtering.
Transactional Emails
Use clear subjects, structured data tables for order summaries, easily copyable verification codes, and clearly identifiable action links.
An accessible email reaches a wider audience and performs better. Email accessibility best practices also improve deliverability and rendering across all clients.