Links Accessible Name Check

Description

The “Links Accessible Name Check” evaluates whether all links on the page have accessible names — meaning every <a> element contains descriptive text or has an accessible label (e.g., aria-label, aria-labelledby, or meaningful inner text).

Example outcome

I noticed that all links have an accessible name.

Impact

• Visual Impairments: Screen readers cannot interpret where a link leads if it lacks a name, making navigation confusing or impossible.
• Motor Impairments: A link without a label provides no clue about its function, especially when navigating through a list of focusable elements.
• Cognitive Disabilities: Users with cognitive disabilities may struggle to infer meaning from context and rely on clear, descriptive labels to understand actions.

Fixes

To address missing or inadequate links accessible name:

1. Find the link without accessible or with an inadequate one.
2. Use a descriptive link text.
3. If using icons or empty links, add aria-label or aria-labelledby.
4. Avoid using non-descriptive text like “click here” or “read more” without context.

Resources

• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criterion 4.1.2
• WCAG 2.2 Techniques: Technique G91: Providing link text that describes the purpose of a link
• ACT Rules: Link has non-empty accessible name
• WebAIM: Links and Hypertext