Web Standard: Web Forms

Definitions

Webforms are used to send questions or comments, register or submit registration information, or request software. Contact Us forms are treated separately. See the Web Standard: Contact Us Page.

Content Requirements

Pages using Webforms must include an EPA email contact in case the form fails to work.
Title the Webform appropriately, describing its purpose.
Use title case (initial capital letters) for labels. Never use all caps.
Reset/cancel buttons should not be used, as they make it too easy for visitors to reset the form, losing their submission.
If you request an email address or phone number in the Webform, be sure to use the appropriate field in the Webform for validation
Every Webform is required to return a confirmation message, aka a “thank you” page.
- You can customize the page but it’s not required.

About this Standard

All EPA public web content must adhere to all federal requirements including; the EPA Web Standards, the U.S. Web Design System guidelines, federal plain language guidelines, and the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act. Internal content, including Intranet and Microsoft 365, may differ from the public content. If not explicitly stated, content must adhere to all federal requirements.

Original effective date: 06/26/2011
Last approved on: 07/13/2022
Web Council review by: 07/13/2025 (or earlier if deemed necessary by the Web Council)

Web Standard: Web Forms

Definitions

Content Requirements

About this Standard

Web Policies and Procedures