Create an accessible PDF in Word

Before you begin

Before you start the process of making an accessible PDF from a Microsoft Word document, make sure that you're using the most current versions of Microsoft 365 and Adobe Acrobat.

Additionally, you'll need to make sure the Word document is accessible; see Run the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word.

Export a Word document to PDF

Once you have an accessible Word document, export it to a PDF in a way that preserves the accessibility features of the document. These features include the heading structure, alternate text for images, and the markup that identifies lists, tables, document language, and any other content relating to the document's accessibility.

Important:

Do not use Word's Print to PDF option, because this does not create accessible PDFs. Also, avoid using tables in Word documents that will be saved as PDFs, because tables in Word pose accessibility problems when converted to PDF.

Windows

To export a Word document to PDF using Windows:

In the ribbon, select the Acrobat tab, and then select Create PDF.
In the "Save Adobe PDF File As" window, in the "File name:" text box, enter a name for the PDF. Choose where you want to save the file.
Select Options, and make sure Enable Accessibility and Reflow with tagged Adobe PDF is checked. Select OK.
Select Save to save your file as a PDF.

Mac

To export a Word document to PDF on a Mac:

Select File, and then Save As....
Type the file name in the "Save As" text box, and choose where you want to save the file.
From the "File Format" drop-down menu, select PDF.
Choose Best for electronic distribution and accessibility (uses Microsoft online service). This ensures the PDF is tagged.
Select Export.