New options for more accessible forms

As we continue working to provide Canadians with accessible justice, the Tribunal is focusing on making the appeal process easier and more accessible for everyone. The key word here is “everyone:” we are using plainer language and have made our documents more client-centric than ever.

Some key changes:

We are pleased to announce that we have updated our forms in a simpler and more accessible format. Appellants will now be able to choose between a large-font PDF and a fillable HTML option when selecting a form to start their appeal.

The large-font PDF forms print in 14-point font size so they are easier to read, especially for those with visual impairments.

The HTML forms offer several advantages over PDF forms: they adjust to any screen size and are easy to access on screen readers and on mobile devices (they can be viewed vertically). They can also be zoomed to 200% on small screens.

Both the PDF and HTML forms can be saved and attached to an email, without having to print and scan first.

Our new forms also provide more information about the appeal process, and make it easier for appellants to prepare for hearings:

• We have added a section that explains our open justice and privacy practices, which can help appellants understand how their appeal will proceed and how the Tribunal may share certain information.
• We have updated the Hearing section of the form to include descriptions of each hearing type.
• We have added more emphasis and clarity regarding the way that appellants can request the accommodations they need to participate fully in their appeal.
• We have removed the Representative Declaration and Signature Section from all of our forms. Parties no longer need to provide signatures to designate representatives for their appeals.

This is just a quick look at how we’ve improved our forms. We’ve made a lot of little tweaks and overhauled the way they look as well. We encourage you to check out our forms page to see for yourself.

As we continue to make our process more client-centric, we believe that making our forms easier to read and complete will help start the appeal process off on the right foot.