Barrier-free payment: New opportunities for people with visual impairments!

Barrier-free payment: New opportunities for people with visual impairments!

With the entry into force of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) in June 2025, the course is set for greater accessibility in the digital world. In particular, people with visual impairments or blindness often face challenges when using touchscreen payment devices. The Heilbronn District Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired emphasizes that there is an urgent need for action here, as orientation on such devices is very difficult. This was also discussed in a recent article by meine.stimme.de.

On June 6, 2025, as part of “Visual Impairment Day,” the Heilbronn district group of BSV Württemberg wants to carry out practical demonstrations of modern payment devices. This event takes place in the advisory house at the Sonnenbrunnen and starts at 10:00 a.m. Anyone interested is invited to experience the accessibility of digital payment methods first hand and to ask questions.

Legal basis and requirements

The BFSG serves to implement the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and aims to give people with disabilities equal access to digital services and products. dbsv.org describes that the law is important for public and private companies, especially for online retailers, banks and software manufacturers.

The BFSG obliges companies to design their digital offerings in accordance with accessibility standards. This includes accessible websites, software and banking services. Companies that do not meet these requirements must expect legal and economic disadvantages. Failure to comply can result in warnings and fines. At the same time, adapting to accessibility standards opens up new customer groups, which improves market opportunities.

Implementation and challenges for companies

The digital transformation itself brings with it new challenges for many companies, as ifdb-Barrierfreiheit.de explains. In particular, technical adjustments must be made to ensure accessibility. This requires investments in technology, staff training and adjustments to the technical systems.

• Notwendige Anforderungen umfassen:
• Barrierefreie Websites und Apps
• Alternativtexte für Bilder
• Klare und verständliche Navigation
• Unterstützung für Sprachsteuerung

Smaller companies that employ fewer than 10 employees or have a turnover of less than 2 million euros are exempt from comprehensive obligations. However, they too must observe basic accessibility principles.

National and European legislation sets clear requirements and expectations for companies to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to their products and services. The BFSG is therefore not only a legal necessity, but also a moral imperative for all companies in Germany.

This makes it clear that accessibility is not only a legal obligation, but also offers a significant opportunity for companies to position themselves on the market and develop inclusive products.