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Make a declaration
A pattern for when users need to formally agree to something
Help users to tell you that they have understood or agree to something before they submit an application or an online form. This is known as a ‘declaration’.
When to use this pattern
You should use the declaration pattern when you need a user to confirm that they have understood the information they have been given or you need them to agree to something.
You should use this pattern if there are significant consequences to the user if they provide false information when using your service.
It should also be used if there are important things they need to understand before taking the next action. For example: applying for a benefit might reduce other support they may be receiving.
When to consider something else
Only use this pattern when the user is taking an important step that will be difficult or impossible to undo. For example, it would likely be inappropriate to use this pattern on a simple eligibility checker or online calculator that does not require the user to identify themselves.
There is a limit to how much information people can take in on a transactional screen like this. Do not use this pattern to introduce users to detailed information about policy or legislation, or to explain something important about the service itself.
Instead, design the service and supporting guidance so that they already understand it before they get to the declaration. The purpose of this screen is to help them understand that the next step is consequential and they should think before taking it.
Design goals and metrics
The goal of this pattern is that people understand they are making a formal declaration, without making them do unnecessary additional work.
Services using this pattern
- Apply for New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Apply for Pension Credit
Discuss on GitHub
There is a public discussion for this topic on GitHub where you can share anything you think might be useful. Discuss Make a declaration on GitHub.
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