Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?
An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a companion animal that provides therapeutic benefit to an individual with a mental or psychiatric disability. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training.
- Must be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional
- Provides emotional support and companionship
- Protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA)
What's the difference between an ESA and a Service Animal?
- Service animals are trained for specific tasks; ESAs are not
- Service animals are protected under ADA; ESAs are not
- ESAs are protected under FHA for housing only
Who can qualify for an ESA?
Anyone diagnosed with a mental health condition that substantially limits major life activities and is recommended by a licensed mental health professional.
Legal & Compliance
What laws protect ESA owners?
- Fair Housing Act (FHA): Protects ESA owners in housing
- Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA): No longer requires airlines to accept ESAs since 2021
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Does not cover ESAs, only service animals
Can landlords deny my ESA request?
Landlords can only deny in cases of direct threat, undue hardship, or invalid documentation. They cannot deny based on breed, size, or species.
What are the legal requirements for an ESA letter?
- Licensed professional's credentials
- Patient's name and status
- Diagnosis and ESA necessity statement
- Professional signature and date
- Contact information for verification
Housing Applications
When should I submit my ESA letter to my landlord?
Ideally before signing a lease or as soon as you receive your ESA letter. For existing tenants, submit immediately after getting your ESA.
What fees can landlords charge for ESAs?
- No pet fees, deposits, or extra rent for ESAs
- Landlords can charge for actual damages caused by the animal
Can I have multiple ESAs?
Yes, but each must be individually justified by your mental health professional.
Medical Requirements
Who can write an ESA letter?
- Licensed Clinical Psychologists
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC)
- Psychiatrists (MD/DO)
- Nurse Practitioners (with mental health specialization)
How long is an ESA letter valid?
Typically valid for one year. Some landlords may require more recent documentation.
What mental health conditions qualify for an ESA?
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depressive Disorders
- PTSD
- Bipolar Disorder
- OCD, ADHD, Autism, Eating Disorders
Template Usage
How do I fill out the ESA letter template?
- Download the template (Word or PDF)
- Replace all bracketed fields with your information
- Have your licensed professional review and sign
- Print or save as PDF for submission
Can I edit the template for my specific situation?
Yes, templates are fully editable. Always have the final letter reviewed and signed by your professional.
What file formats are available?
- Microsoft Word (.docx)
- PDF (.pdf)
- HTML (for online preview)
Troubleshooting
My landlord rejected my ESA letter. What should I do?
- Ask for a written explanation
- Review the letter for missing or incorrect info
- Consult your professional for a revised letter
- Contact a local fair housing organization or attorney if needed
What if my ESA causes property damage?
You are responsible for any damage caused by your ESA. Landlords can charge for actual damages.
How can I verify if my ESA letter is valid?
- Signed and dated by a licensed professional
- All required elements present
- Contact the professional directly if needed