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---
title: v-model Ignores Initial HTML Attributes
impact: HIGH
impactDescription: v-model ignores value, checked, and selected HTML attributes - initial state must be set in JavaScript
type: capability
tags: [vue3, v-model, forms, input, checkbox, select, initialization]
---
# v-model Ignores Initial HTML Attributes
**Impact: HIGH** - Setting initial values via HTML `value`, `checked`, or `selected` attributes has no effect when using v-model. The form will appear empty or in an unexpected state, confusing users and potentially causing data loss.
Vue's v-model always treats the bound JavaScript state as the single source of truth. Any initial attributes in the HTML are completely ignored. This is a common mistake when migrating from plain HTML forms or when copying HTML templates.
## Task Checklist
- [ ] Never rely on HTML `value`, `checked`, or `selected` attributes when using v-model
- [ ] Always declare initial values in JavaScript using `ref()` or `reactive()`
- [ ] When migrating plain HTML forms to Vue, move all default values to JavaScript state
- [ ] Audit existing forms for hardcoded HTML default values that may be silently ignored
**Incorrect:**
```html
<script setup>
import { ref } from 'vue'
const username = ref('') // Empty!
const isSubscribed = ref(false) // Not checked!
const country = ref('') // No default selection!
</script>
<template>
<!-- WRONG: These HTML attributes are completely ignored -->
<input v-model="username" value="default_user">
<input type="checkbox" v-model="isSubscribed" checked>
<select v-model="country">
<option value="us" selected>United States</option>
<option value="uk">United Kingdom</option>
</select>
</template>
```
**Correct:**
```html
<script setup>
import { ref } from 'vue'
// CORRECT: Set initial values in JavaScript
const username = ref('default_user')
const isSubscribed = ref(true)
const country = ref('us')
</script>
<template>
<!-- HTML attributes not needed - JavaScript state controls everything -->
<input v-model="username">
<input type="checkbox" v-model="isSubscribed">
<select v-model="country">
<option value="us">United States</option>
<option value="uk">United Kingdom</option>
</select>
</template>
```
```javascript
// Options API equivalent
export default {
data() {
return {
username: 'default_user',
isSubscribed: true,
country: 'us'
}
}
}
```
## Reference
- [Vue.js Form Input Bindings](https://vuejs.org/guide/essentials/forms.html)