HHS web policies outline how departmental websites must meet federal requirements. These policies apply to all HHS websites.
Follow federal requirements
All HHS websites must meet government-wide standards for accessibility, content, and compliance. These checklists will help you meet federal requirements:
- Requirements for federal websites and digital services
- Required web content and links
- Requirements for delivering a digital-first public experience
- Requirements for delivering better digital services
All HHS websites must prioritize compliance with the following laws:
- Digital modernization (21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act)
- Accessibility (Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act)
- Plain Language (Plain Writing Act of 2010)
- Information collection (Paperwork Reduction Act)
- Records Management (Federal Records Act)
Follow HHS policies and standards
These policies ensure consistency across HHS websites and help users recognize and trust official content.
- Branding and logo use - HHS websites must use official HHS branding and follow HHS logo guidelines.
- Disclaimers - HHS uses different disclaimers depending on the type of content or links on a webpage.
- Domain names - The HHS Policy for Internet Domain Names explains how domain names are approved and managed.
- Plug-ins - Some content may require free software plug-ins to view certain files.
- Records management - The Web Records Management Policy explains which web records must be kept and for how long.
- Signatures on HHS websites - Official handwritten signatures should not be posted online. Use an “S-signature” format instead (for example: /Dr. Jane Smith/).
- Style Guide - HHS divisions should consult the Style Guide for editorial guidance.
Protect user privacy and data
- The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) provides guidance on cybersecurity, data, artificial intelligence and more.
- The HHS Privacy Policy explains how information is handled on HHS websites, including persistent cookies and third-party tools. Some HHS divisions have their own privacy notices.
- The Federal Risk and Authorization Management (FedRAMP) Marketplace lists cloud service providers and shows their compliance status with federal security standards.
Use federal tools and resources
- The U.S. Web Design System makes it easier to build accessible, mobile-friendly government websites.
- The Digital Services Playbook details 13 key practices from both the government and the private sector to help build effective digital services.
- Communities of practice is a forum available to all government staff to share experiences, learn from each other in addressing common challenges.
- U.S. Digital Service (USDS) is a group of technologists from diverse backgrounds working across the federal government to transform critical services for the people.
- Data.gov is where you can find data, tools, and resources to conduct research, develop web and mobile applications, design data visualizations, and more.