Who Requires Closed Captioning Services?
Closed captioning services are needed by organizations and creators who must make video accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers, or who want to meet U.S. compliance standards.
1. TV broadcasters and cable/satellite networks
In the U.S., broadcast television and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs)—like cable and satellite providers—are required to caption nearly all non-exempt programming under FCC rules.
- Streaming platforms and online video distributors
Under the CVAA and FCC internet video rules, any full-length program that aired on U.S. TV with captions must also be captioned when posted online (including on a broadcaster’s site/app). So networks, publishers, and platforms that republish TV content online need captions too.
3. Federal agencies and government contractors
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires U.S. federal agencies—and many contractors creating content for them—to provide captions for video on websites, training portals, internal systems, and public resources.
4. Public-facing businesses and organizations (ADA coverage)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires accessibility in public accommodations, which courts and guidance have increasingly applied to online video used by businesses, universities, healthcare providers, and customer-facing services. That’s why many private organizations caption videos to avoid accessibility complaints or lawsuits.
- Education and training providers
Schools, colleges, universities, and eLearning companies caption lectures, webinars, and training videos to meet ADA/WCAG expectations and ensure equal access for students and employees.
6. Content creators who want a wider reach
Even when not legally forced (like many internet-only creators), captions are widely used by:
- YouTubers & podcasters
- Social media brands
- Marketing teams
- Event and webinar hosts