Required Website Disclosures to Stay Legally Compliant and Protected

If you operate a website—whether it’s for e-commerce, services, blogging, or content creation—it’s essential to include key legal disclosures. These not only protect your business but also ensure transparency and compliance with state, federal, and international regulations.

1. Privacy Policy (Legally Required)

A Privacy Policy is mandatory if you collect any personal information (names, emails, IP addresses, etc.).

Your policy should explain:

• What data you collect and why

• How you collect, use, and store it

• Whether and how you share data with third parties

• Users’ rights and how to opt out

This is especially critical for compliance with laws like GDPR, CCPA, and COPPA.

2. Terms and Conditions (Highly Recommended)

Your Terms and Conditions (T&C) set the rules for using your site. While not legally required, they help limit your liability and enforce site policies.

Include details such as:

• Permitted and prohibited use of your content

• Payment terms (if applicable)

• Account and service termination policies

• Governing law and dispute resolution

• Intellectual property protections

3. Disclaimers (Protective and Often Required)

Disclaimers protect you if your website provides advice, opinions, or promotional content.

Common types:

• General Information: Not legal, financial, or medical advice

• Affiliate Disclosure: Required by the FTC if you earn commission from product links

• Earnings Disclaimer: For business or income-related sites

4. Cookie Notice (Required for Many Sites)

If your website uses cookies (especially for tracking or analytics), a cookie notice is required under GDPR and similar regulations.

A compliant notice:

• Informs users that cookies are in use

• Offers a way to accept or reject non-essential cookies

• Links to your full cookie policy

5. Accessibility Statement (Best Practice)

An Accessibility Statement shows your commitment to making your website inclusive for users with disabilities. It’s recommended—even if not yet legally required—especially for businesses with public-facing sites.

6. Contact Information (Required for E-Commerce)

Many laws require businesses to provide clear contact information, especially for customer service or product-related inquiries.

Include:

• Email address

• Phone number (if applicable)

• Contact form or business address

Final Thoughts

Having the right disclosures isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about building trust, staying compliant, and protecting your brand. If you’re unsure whether your site meets legal requirements, consult with me to ensure you’re covered based on your industry, audience, and location.