How to Get an ESA Letter for Housing or Travel

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide vital companionship and comfort for individuals struggling with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. If you rely on your animal for emotional well-being, you may be eligible for an ESA letter, a legal document that allows you certain protections—especially when it comes to housing and travel.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get an ESA letter for housing or travel, what it includes, and how it can help you live and move more freely with your support animal.

What Is an ESA Letter?

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter is a recommendation from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) stating that you benefit emotionally or psychologically from the companionship of your animal. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require special training, but they must be prescribed by a professional such as a:

• Licensed therapist or counselor

• Psychologist

• Psychiatrist

• Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW)

• Medical doctor (in some cases)

Why You Need an ESA Letter

With a valid ESA letter, you may gain legal rights and accommodations under two main U.S. laws:

1. Fair Housing Act (FHA)

Under the FHA, landlords must provide reasonable accommodation for tenants with an ESA—even in housing that has a “no pets” policy. This means they cannot charge extra pet fees or deny your application simply because of your emotional support animal.

2. Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) (Note: Rules Changed in 2021)

As of 2021, airlines are no longer required to accommodate ESAs as they once did. However, some airlines may still allow ESAs under their own policies. Having a valid ESA letter can help when flying, especially if you also have a psychiatric service animal (PSA) with some training.

Step-by-Step: How to Get an ESA Letter

Here’s how you can legally and easily obtain an ESA letter:

1. Evaluate Your Needs

If you’re dealing with emotional or psychological issues such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression and feel that your animal offers significant comfort, you may qualify for an ESA letter.

2. Consult a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP)

You must get an ESA letter from a qualified provider who is licensed in your state. This can be your existing therapist or a provider you consult through an online ESA service.

3. Complete a Mental Health Assessment

Whether in person or online, the LMHP will evaluate your mental health condition to determine whether an ESA is a helpful part of your treatment plan.

4. Receive Your ESA Letter

If approved, you’ll receive a signed ESA letter on official letterhead, including:

• The professional’s licensing info and contact details

• Confirmation of your mental/emotional disability

• A recommendation for an ESA as part of your treatment

• The date of issue (usually valid for 1 year)

5. Submit the Letter to Landlords or Airlines

Provide a copy of your letter to your landlord for housing accommodation. For travel, contact the airline ahead of your flight to understand their updated ESA or psychiatric service animal (PSA) policy.

Warning: Avoid Fake ESA Letters

There are many scam websites offering instant ESA letters without evaluations or licensed providers. To ensure your letter is legal and valid:

• Verify the LMHP’s license and credentials

• Avoid sites that offer “ESA registration” without consultation

• Read reviews and choose reputable ESA platforms

• Confirm that the provider is licensed in your state

Final Thoughts

A genuine ESA letter can make a big difference in your ability to live comfortably with your emotional support animal. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult housing situation or planning a trip, knowing how to get an ESA letter for housing or travel empowers you to advocate for your mental health needs.

Make sure to consult a licensed professional, avoid shortcuts, and always keep your ESA documentation up to date. When done the right way, getting an ESA letter is not only easy—it’s life-changing.