The Plain Writing Act of 2010: what it requires
The Plain Writing Act of 2010 tells federal agencies to write public documents clearly. It sets no reading grade and names no formula. This page explains what it does require.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change and differ by place. Check the official source linked in each row and ask your own lawyer or compliance team. Sources last checked November 10, 2026.
What the Act says
The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal executive agencies to use plain writing in documents the public uses. That includes letters, forms, notices and instructions about benefits, services, taxes and how to comply with federal rules. It does not cover regulations.
The Act defines plain writing as writing that is clear, concise, well-organized and right for its audience. It names no formula and sets no reading grade.
The Act also says courts cannot review compliance with it, and it creates no right that anyone can enforce.
Requirements and sources
| Requirement | Formula or metric | Threshold | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal executive agencies: covered documents | None named: “clear, concise, well-organized” | No grade set | Plain Writing Act of 2010, Pub. L. 111-274 |
Check your document
Open the free checker with the General public (grade 7 to 9) target already set. Scores are estimates: the laws below may set their own counting rules, so the calculator is a first check, not the official score.
Check a document (General public (grade 7 to 9))
How to make an evidence sheet for this document
- Open the calculator with the right target. Use the button above. It opens the free checker with the target reader set for this kind of document.
- Add your document. Paste the text, or open a Word, PDF or text file. Everything is scored in your browser and nothing is uploaded.
- Fix the hardest sentences. Sentences are marked easy, borderline or hard. Rewrite the hard ones, then check the scores again.
- Print the evidence sheet. Choose Evidence sheet, add the document name, and print or save it as a PDF. It records the date, the six scores, the target and a SHA-256 fingerprint of the text.
- File it with your records. Keep the sheet with the document version you scored. If the text changes, the fingerprint will not match, so score the new version too.
The sheet records a measurement on the date shown; it does not certify compliance with any law, regulation or standard.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Plain Writing Act set a grade level?
No. It defines plain writing as clear, concise, well-organized writing suited to the audience, without a grade or formula.
Who has to follow the Plain Writing Act?
Federal executive agencies, for covered documents such as letters, forms, notices and instructions about benefits, services, taxes and compliance.
Does it apply to regulations?
No. The Act says covered documents do not include regulations.
Can someone sue an agency under the Act?
No. The Act says there is no judicial review of compliance, and it creates no right that can be enforced.
How can I check plain writing?
A readability score is one quick check. Shorter sentences and common words usually help. Our checker shows which sentences are hardest to read.