Perceivable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 1.4.12: Text Spacing
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Users can increase specified text-spacing values without losing content or functionality in markup-based content that supports those properties. The criterion tests resilience to overrides, not whether those values are the default design.
A practical example
A help card uses a fixed height that clips its final sentence after spacing increases. Allow the card to expand and keep its link available when word, letter, line and paragraph spacing are overridden together.
How to check it
- Apply line height of 1.5 times font size and paragraph spacing of 2 times font size.
- At the same time, apply letter spacing of 0.12 times and word spacing of 0.16 times font size.
- Review every visible state for clipping, overlap, hidden controls and lost information, including form errors and expanded panels.
What can be missed
Changing only line height does not exercise the full test. Language and script exceptions apply to unsupported spacing properties; record the actual settings used.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.