Tools and Training

U.S. Federal Plain Language Guidelines

For more than twenty years, the U.S. Federal Plain Language Guidelines helped people across the U.S. government write clearly, communicate effectively, and serve the public with respect. When the General Services Administration (GSA) redirected plainlanguage.gov in 2025, the Guidelines were removed from the website, leaving many without a trusted resource they relied on daily.

Because everyone deserves access to clear communication, we’ve reposted the Guidelines here, just as they appeared on plainlanguage.gov for over two decades.

Access the Federal Plain Language Guidelines (PDF)

Why the Guidelines matter

Clear communication is not just helpful, it’s the law. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to write in plain language when creating documents that:

Help people get a federal benefit or service, or file taxes
Provide information about a federal benefit or service
Explain how to meet a federal requirement

To support agencies, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) instructed writers and communicators to follow the Federal Plain Language Guidelines. Over time, these Guidelines became the foundation for clear communication across government, and far beyond.

The Guidelines have shaped plain language nationwide

They are:

Used by federal, state, and local governments as well as nonprofits, universities, and private companies.
Cited by plain language organizations around the world.
Influential in the development of the ISO Plain Language Standard.

Plain language advocates in the U.S. Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) also played a major role. This volunteer group of federal employees maintained plainlanguage.gov, taught thousands of people how to use plain language, and helped agencies meet the requirements of the Act.

Learn more About the U.S. plain language movement

Want to understand how plain language grew from a small group of federal volunteers to a nationwide movement, and where the Center for Plain Language fits in? Explore our timeline of milestones, policies, and partnerships.

Read the History of the U.S. Federal Plain Language Movement

Plain language in Canada

Canada has also been a leader in the plain language space. The Government of Canada requires plain language in its communications with the public and provides guidance for federal writers through its official plain language handbook.

We’re also sharing the Government of Canada’s Plain Language Guidelines, another excellent resource for anyone committed to clear communication.

Access the Government of Canada’s Plain Language Guidelines

Many Canadian writers rely on Termium, the federal terminology and writing resource, which includes a rich, practical section on plain language. Termium is an excellent tool for anyone seeking clear, consistent communication.

Explore Termium’s Plain Language Guidance