Why U.S. Companies Operating in the EU Must Act Now on Digital Accessibility

Location Doesn’t Exempt Responsibility

Any company, regardless of where it’s headquartered, that provides digital products or services to EU consumers must comply. This includes U.S. businesses operating online in any EU member state. Non-compliance isn't just a technical oversight; it’s a legal risk that can lead to substantial fines, legal action, and reputational damage. If your business serves EU customers, meeting the EAA’s strict accessibility standards is not optional—it’s essential to remain compliant, competitive, and trusted in the region.

Fintech: A Sector Under Scrutiny

Accessibility goes beyond legal compliance—it's about making digital experiences usable for everyone, including people with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments. For companies in sectors like fintech, where digital delivery is the norm, this is especially important.

Fintech companies use software to improve or automate financial services, such as mobile banking, online payments, investment platforms, and cryptocurrency exchanges. Platforms must now work seamlessly with assistive technologies such as screen readers, voice navigation, and alternative input methods.

However, a recent study shows that 70% of fintech platforms fail to meet basic accessibility standards, highlighting a concerning gap between technological innovation and inclusive design. With the EAA looming, this gap must close quickly. Financial services are essential, and digital accessibility is now critical to financial inclusion.

Legal and Financial Risks

Non-compliance with the EAA can lead to substantial penalties, which vary by EU member state. This is highlighted in Ireland, where an article on www.forbes.com states,

“By June 28, 2025, organizations must fully comply with the European Accessibility Act (EAA) or face fines ranging from €5,000 to €60,000, up to 18 months in prison, or both.” (see link below for the full article).

Beyond financial penalties, businesses may also face legal action from individuals or advocacy groups, leading to lawsuits, court orders, or settlements requiring rectification of accessibility issues. Additionally, non-compliance can harm a company's reputation, especially for businesses that rely on digital exports or partnerships in the EU, potentially leading to restrictions on market access and loss of customer trust.

A Strategic Opportunity, Not Just a Legal Obligation

Proactive U.S. companies are already moving to align with the EAA—not just to avoid penalties, but to gain a competitive edge. Accessible digital services improve the user experience for everyone and demonstrate a commitment to inclusion that resonates with customers, partners, and investors. In fact, accessibility is increasingly seen as part of corporate social responsibility and brand trust.

How to Prepare

1. Audit Your Digital Assets: Assess websites, apps, and platforms against WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

2. Combine Automated and Manual Testing: Automated tools can miss real-world usability issues. Human testing is essential.

3. Publish an Accessibility Statement: Show your commitment and document progress.

4. Embed Accessibility in Your Processes: Make it a standard part of design and development, not a retrofit.

The Bottom Line

For U.S. companies operating in the EU, accessibility is no longer optional. It’s a legal requirement, a business advantage, and a moral obligation. Acting now avoids last-minute compliance scrambles—and positions your brand as forward-thinking and inclusive.

Take Action Now

Check your website’s accessibility status for free using the aaatraq.com/check tool. It’s a fast, easy way to identify risk and begin your compliance journey.

Further Reading:

• The UK’s regulatory approach to accessibility

An overview of how UK laws like the Equality Act 2010 continue to shape accessibility expectations post-Brexit, and how this aligns with global trends. https://www.taylorwessing.com/en/interface/2025/accessibility/the-uks-regulatory-approach-to-accessibility (opens in a new window)

• A majority of Europe’s fintech firms are not prepared for their accessibility reckoning

A look at how many fintech platforms are falling behind on accessibility standards, and what that means as the EAA enforcement date approaches. https://emerging-europe.com/analysis/a-majority-of-europes-fintech-firms-are-not-prepared-for-their-accessibility-reckoning/ (opens in a new window)

• Ireland Web Accessibility: Everything You Need To Know

A practical summary of Ireland’s approach to accessibility enforcement, including penalties and obligations under the European Accessibility Act. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/05/30/ireland-web-accessibility-everything-you-need-to-know/ (opens in a new window)