Plain Writing and Clear Communications

<Back to HHS.gov/open

Our promise to you:  Writing you can understand

We at HHS are committed to writing all of our documents, digital content, and communications in plain language to ensure you can easily understand:

• Our benefits and services and how to get them
• How to file taxes when you receive our benefits or services
• How to comply with a requirement we administer or enforce

You can learn more about plain language in the government, and view "before and after" examples, at www.plainlanguage.gov.

Why we make this promise

Clear writing is essential to ensuring that all Americans understand what is happening within the government and is able to participate.

Additionally, the Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires all federal agencies to write "clear government communication that the public can understand and use."

Our agencies already use plain language

Our operating agencies already use plain language and train employees in the importance of clear communication. We continue to work to ensure communications are simple, direct, and understood by the people they serve.

The Department's Plain Writing Act Compliance reports provide an overview of our implementation efforts to date:

• 2023 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2022 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2021 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2020 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2019 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2018 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2017 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2016 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2015 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2014 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2013 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report
• 2012 Plain Writing Act Compliance Report

You can also review the Department's  Plain Writing Implementation Plan here.

Let us know how we're doing

You can help us to meet our plain language goals by letting us know when we fall short. If you have trouble understanding any documents or material on our websites, please contact PlainLanguage@hhs.gov

2023 HHS Plain Writing Contacts