Operable · Level AA · Introduced in WCAG 2.0
WCAG 2.4.6: Headings and Labels
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
Headings and labels should describe the topic or purpose of the content or control. Useful wording reduces the need to inspect surrounding details before deciding where to navigate or what to enter.
A practical example
A form has two fields labeled “Name,” one for the applicant and one for a dependent. Use labels such as “Applicant's full name” and “Dependent's full name” so their purpose is clear.
How to check it
- Read headings as an outline and labels without relying on disappearing input hints.
- Check the wording against the content section or data actually requested.
- Review repeated labels and generic headings in context, making distinctions clear where the task needs them.
What can be missed
This criterion concerns whether wording is descriptive. Correct heading elements and programmatic label association are related requirements, but technically associated text can still be unhelpful.
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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.