Color Contrast
Some users have difficulty reading or understanding content when text blends into the background or relies on color alone for meaning. To meet Section 508 and WCAG 2.1 Level AA requirements, all text and images of text must have sufficient color contrast so everyone can read them clearly.
- Standard text must have acontrast ratio of at least 4.5:1.
- Large text(18pt+ or 14pt bold) requires3:1 contrast.
- Decorative, inactive, or non-essential texthas no contrast requirement.
- Logos and brand namesare exempt from contrast rules.
Most modern tools (like Microsoft Word, Outlook, and web editors) include built-in accessibility checkers that will alert you if text has insufficient contrast. If you get a warning, simply:
- Choose a darker or lighter version of the color,or
- Adjust the background color so the text becomes easier to read
Improving color contrast helps ensure everyone—including users with low vision, color blindness, or reading fatigue—can access and understand your content.
More information on color contrast guidelines at section508.gov.
❌ A common issue
The default Red in many applications fails contrast requirements. Use Dark Red instead when red is necessary.
✅ Best Practice
The best practice for the highest contrast is black text on a white background. This provides the:
- Highest Contrast
Black text (#000000) on a white background (#FFFFFF) provides a 21:1 contrast ratio, which is the highest possible and far exceeds WCAG 2.1 AA and AAA requirements. - EICC Style Guide Colors
- If color is desired, the following colors from the style guide are accessible when used on a white background:
- EICC Red (#A21317)
- Jade(#32707A)
- Hibiscus (#9B1C44)
- Charcoal (#414042)
- Midnight (#354766)
- Do NOT use the following colorsas text colors on a while background:
- EICC Gold (#FDB913)
- Apricot (#F8982F)
- Olive (#C8BA47)
- Moss (#80AA72)
- If color is desired, the following colors from the style guide are accessible when used on a white background:
- Most Legible for the Largest Number of Users
This pairing is easiest for people with:- Low vision
- Color blindness
- Cognitive processing difficulties
- Reading fatigue
- Bright-screen sensitivity
- Universally Recognized and Expected
Most accessibility guidelines default to this color scheme because it reduces eye strain and supports fast reading. - Least Likely to Cause Issues Across Devices
Black on white works reliably on:- Phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Monitors
- Printed copies
- Safe for All Fonts and Sizes
Even small text is usually readable at this contrast level, though font size recommendations still apply.