New episode on the Accessibility Enhancement Act (German: Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz, BFSG) and its consequences for the financial sector – listen now:
From 28 June 2025, many private sector companies in Germany, including banks and FinTechs, will have to offer accessible products and services. In a new podcast episode of ‘Alles Legal – FinTech-Recht kompakt’, Annerton lawyer Katharina Wagener explains what the Accessibility Enhancement Act and the associated BFSG Ordinance actually mean.
In this episode, you will find answers to the following questions:
What is the Accessibility Enhancement Act?
The BFSG implements the European Directive (EU) 2019/882 (European Accessibility Act, EAA) and aims to remove barriers in everyday life. For the first time, it also obliges private companies to ensure accessibility – with far-reaching implications for the financial sector.
Which products and services are affected?
In future, the following must be designed to be accessible:
- Payment terminals
- Mobile apps
- Online banking portals
- Account and credit services
- Digital information services
These must be understandable, accessible and usable – for example through:
- Voice output functions
- High colour contrast
- Support from assistive technologies
- Easy language
Who is affected by the BFSG – and who is not?
Not every company falls under the new rules:
- Micro-enterprises (fewer than ten employees and less than €2 million in annual turnover) are exempt.
- All other companies must take action – depending on their product:
- Existing products: Transition periods apply.
- New products from 28 June 2025: must be BFSG-compliant.
What are the consequences of non-compliance?
Companies that ignore the new requirements risk:
- Fines of up to €100,000
- Sales bans on products
- Lawsuits by affected individuals or associations
Accessibility is a topic of social relevance – and economic urgency
The implementation of the BFSG is part of a comprehensive EU strategy for inclusion. For companies in the financial sector, this means that accessibility is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ but a business ‘must-have’.
‘Accessibility is not just a matter for public authorities – it is becoming a competitive factor in the private sector,’ says Annerton lawyer Katharina Wagener in the latest podcast episode.
Conclusion: Act now – or face high costs
The deadline is short and the need for action is high. Financial service providers should address the requirements immediately and review their existing offerings. The good news is that those who invest now will not only avoid regulatory risks, but also increase customer satisfaction and reach.
Next week, we will delve deeper into the topic of accessibility and look at the practical implementation of the law in part 2.
About this podcast
Alles Legal – Fintech Recht Kompakt delivers sharp, weekly insights into legal and compliance matters in the world of banking. (in German only)
This podcast is a collaboration between Payment & Banking and PayTechLaw.
Each Wednesday, we unpack the legal developments shaping the financial world – clearly, concisely, and without the legal jargon.
Since 2021, PayTechLaw authors and Annerton attorneys have brought depth and clarity to complex topics.
Whether it’s PSD3, DORA, or FiDA – we provide the legal context you need.
In 20 minutes. No detours.
