...
Make sure the PDF is in a text based format.
Create a logical reading order by providing a main heading and subheadings.
Tag and build your document structure in Microsoft Word
Apply properly nested headings <h1>, <h2>, <h3>, <h4>, <h5>, etc.
The <h1> heading should be reserved for the document title
Add paragraphs <p>Add ALT text (alternative text) for images.
Complex charts and diagrams that are embedded in the PDF can’t be accessed by screen reader users. In these cases a text based equivalent needs to be provided. This could be a summary of what the chart/graphic is conveying to sighted users.
Make sure there is Provide sufficient color contrast between text, links and background color.
Provide sufficient color contrast for non text content such a form elements.
Ensure that content displayed in a data table is fully accessible to screen reader users.
Provide a table of contents so it’s easy for users to find and navigate to information.
Save your Word or PDF document as a tagged PDF.
Provide meaningful document titles for screen reader users, using Adobe Acrobat Pro.
Avoid writing important information in the document header or footer. Screen readers will not announce content displayed in the header and footer.
Provide descriptive link text.
Provide labels for interactive form controls in PDF documents
Ensure that any interactive elements such as forms are fully accessible to keyboard users and screen reader users.
Test your document in Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat for accessibility compliance.
In a PDF created to conform to PDF/Universal Accessibility (ISO 14289), the content can be reflowed and zoomed in to make reading possible for someone with low-vision.
...