Fix Accessibility Checker Not Detecting Errors in Microsoft Word
Question details
The user is experiencing an issue where the built-in Accessibility Checker does not flag known accessibility errors.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows, macOS, Web
- Scenario
- Checking a document for accessibility compliance to ensure it is readable by screen readers and individuals with disabilities.
- Observed behavior
- The accessibility tool fails to report existing issues such as missing alternative text for images, extra blank spaces, or inaccessible hyperlinks, regardless of the platform used.
Ensure your document actually contains accessibility violations by creating a test file with intentionally missing image alternative text or problematic hyperlinks before concluding the checker is broken.
Report the Bug to Microsoft Support
Since this is an acknowledged bug across multiple Word channels and platforms, reporting it directly helps the development team investigate and release a patch.
Testing has confirmed that this behavior reproduces even on documents intentionally designed with errors and warnings, including on the Semi-Annual Channel. The most effective resolution is escalating the issue to Microsoft's development team.
Launch Microsoft Word and open the test document where the Accessibility Checker is failing. Navigate to the 'Help' tab on the top ribbon.
Click on 'Feedback' to open the Microsoft feedback panel on the right side of the screen.
Select 'Report a problem' and describe the issue in detail. Mention your Office version, operating system, and that the Accessibility Checker is missing specific errors like alternative text.
Attach a screenshot or check the box to include a sample document that reproduces the issue, then click 'Submit'.
Manually Verify Document Accessibility
While waiting for a software patch, you can manually inspect key elements in your document to ensure accessibility compliance.
Try WPS Office for a Seamless Document Experience
If you are frustrated by unresolved bugs in Microsoft Word, WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative. It offers a familiar interface, allowing you to create, edit, and format documents effortlessly without a steep learning curve.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free version for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
- 3. Open your documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word documents to continue working immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is checking document accessibility important?
Accessibility checks ensure your document can be read and understood by individuals with disabilities, particularly those relying on assistive technologies like screen readers. It highlights issues such as missing alt text, poor color contrast, and illogical heading structures.
How can I check my exact Microsoft Word version?
Open Microsoft Word, navigate to 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' (or 'Help' on older versions). Look under the 'Product Information' section to see your specific version, channel, and build number.
Are there alternative ways to automatically check document accessibility?
Yes. As a workaround, you can save your Word document as a PDF and use Adobe Acrobat's built-in Accessibility Checker. Alternatively, some web-based accessibility evaluators allow you to upload documents for automated compliance checks.
