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Understandable WCAG 3.3.7

3.3.7 Redundant Entry

Information previously entered by or provided to the user that is required to be entered again in the same process is either auto-populated or available for the user to select.

Level A Moderate WCAG 2.2 (new)

What this rule means

WCAG 3.3.7 (new in WCAG 2.2) requires that when users need to re-enter information they already provided during the same process, the system either auto-fills it or makes it available to select. Users should not have to type the same information twice.

Exceptions exist for security purposes (re-entering a password to confirm), when previously entered information is no longer valid, and when the information is essential for security.

Why it matters

Re-entering information is a significant barrier for users with cognitive disabilities, motor impairments, and anyone using assistive technology. Each additional input increases the chance of error and the cognitive load on the user.

Multi-step forms that ask for the same address, name, or email multiple times create frustration and increase abandonment rates.

Related axe-core rules

There are no automated axe-core rules for this criterion.

How to test

  • Complete multi-step forms and note when information must be re-entered.
  • Verify that previously entered data is auto-populated or selectable.
  • Check that shipping/billing address flows offer a "same as shipping" option.

How to fix

<!-- Auto-populate from previous step -->
<label for="confirm-email">Confirm email</label>
<input type="email" id="confirm-email"
       value="user@example.com" readonly />

<!-- Checkbox to reuse data -->
<fieldset>
  <legend>Billing Address</legend>
  <label>
    <input type="checkbox" id="same-address"
           onchange="copyShippingToBilling()" />
    Same as shipping address
  </label>
  <!-- billing fields -->
</fieldset>

<!-- Select from previously entered data -->
<label for="address-select">Select an address</label>
<select id="address-select">
  <option>123 Main St (from Step 1)</option>
  <option>Enter a new address</option>
</select>

Common mistakes

  • Asking for the same email address on multiple steps of a checkout flow.
  • Requiring re-entry of address when billing matches shipping.
  • Not preserving entered data when users navigate back and forward in a multi-step form.

Resources