Mailchimp
Includes alt text fields, accessibility checker, and plain text generation.
Mailchimp guideWhy newsletter accessibility matters
Newsletters reach hundreds or thousands of recipients. When they're not accessible, you exclude people who use screen readers, have low vision, or read on mobile devices. Accessible newsletters also perform better—they're easier to read for everyone and often have better engagement rates.
Newsletter accessibility checklist
Content & Structure
Images & Media
Links & Buttons
Design & Color
Technical
Best practices by element
Subject lines & preheaders
- Keep subject lines under 50 characters
- Front-load the most important information
- Use the preheader to expand on the subject (not repeat it)
- Avoid ALL CAPS and excessive punctuation
Layout and structure
- Single-column layouts are most accessible and mobile-friendly
- If using multiple columns, ensure they stack properly on mobile
- Use semantic headings (H1, H2, H3) even in email HTML
- Keep the newsletter focused—don't overload with content
Images
- Write alt text that conveys the image's purpose, not just a description
- For images with text, include that text in the alt attribute
- Limit image file sizes for faster loading
- Always provide key information in text, not just in images (images may be blocked)
Links and CTAs
- Each link's text should make sense on its own
- Use buttons for primary calls-to-action
- Ensure adequate spacing between clickable elements
- Make URLs human-readable in plain text version
Recommended email platforms
These platforms include accessibility features:
Constant Contact
Built-in accessibility checker and mobile preview.
Learn moreCampaign Monitor
Supports semantic HTML and automated plain text.
Learn moreTesting your newsletter
- Preview in multiple clients — Outlook, Gmail, Apple Mail render differently
- Test on mobile — Most emails are read on phones
- Check with images disabled — Does it still make sense?
- Review the plain text version — Is it readable?
- Use a screen reader — Or test with NVDA/VoiceOver briefly
- Run an accessibility checker — Tools like Litmus or Email on Acid can help
Example: accessible newsletter structure
<!-- Set language -->
<html lang="en">
<head>
<title>UA Weekly Update - January 5, 2026</title>
</head>
<body>
<!-- Preheader text (hidden visually but read by screen readers) -->
<span style="display:none;">This week: registration opens, new parking policy, and more.</span>
<!-- Main content table with role="presentation" for layout -->
<table role="presentation" width="100%">
<tr>
<td>
<!-- Logo with alt text -->
<img src="logo.png" alt="University of Arizona" width="200">
<!-- Heading -->
<h1>UA Weekly Update</h1>
<!-- Content sections with headings -->
<h2>Registration Now Open</h2>
<p>Spring 2026 registration is now open for all students...</p>
<a href="...">Register for spring classes</a>
<h2>New Parking Policy</h2>
<p>Starting February 1...</p>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
</body>
</html>