What an ESA letter does

Under the federal Fair Housing Act, a person with a disability can ask a housing provider for a reasonable accommodation to keep an assistance animal, including an emotional support animal, even where pets aren't allowed, and without pet fees or breed and weight limits. If the disability isn't obvious, the provider may ask for reliable documentation: a letter from a licensed health care professional stating that you have a disability and a disability-related need for the animal.

What makes a letter reliable

• It comes from a licensed mental health or medical professional (for example an LCSW, LMFT, LPC, psychologist, physician or psychiatric nurse practitioner).
• The professional actually knows you: they've evaluated you, in person or by telehealth. HUD's 2020 guidance says documentation bought from a website without that relationship isn't reliable on its own.
• Several states go further. California, Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana and Montana require the professional to have a relationship with you for at least 30 days before writing the letter, and California requires the license details on the document. Florida says an internet registration or certificate is not sufficient by itself. State by state.
• It says you have a disability under the FHA definition and that the animal is needed because of it. It does not need to name a diagnosis, and a landlord may not demand one.

How to get one

Ask a clinician you already see. If you don't have one, telehealth practices that employ licensed clinicians in your state can evaluate you, usually for $100 to $200. Be wary of anyone who promises a letter without talking to you; those are the ones landlords reject.

Where a registration card fits

A card is for the everyday moments, not the lease negotiation: showing a doorman, a dog-walker, or a curious neighbor that your animal is a companion you've registered. Many people carry one alongside their letter. Ours links to a verification page so the number can be checked, and it says plainly on the back what it is and isn't.

If a website tells you a card or certificate is all you need for housing or flights, it isn't telling you the truth.