ESA Letter Template: What a Legitimate Emotional Support Animal Letter Looks Like
Introduction
If you’re considering getting an emotional support animal (ESA), one of the most important steps is obtaining a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. This letter acts as legal proof of your need for an ESA under federal housing laws.
Many people look for an ESA letter template to understand what the document should look like before applying. However, it’s important to know that not all templates are created equal. Some online sites offer fake ESA templates that won’t hold up legally.Many people look for an ESA letter template to understand what the document should look like before applying. However, it’s important to know that not all templates are created equal. Some online sites offer fake ESA templates that won’t hold up legally.
This article will show you what a legitimate ESA letter template includes, what to avoid, and how to ensure your letter complies with the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
”Get Yours Now!
Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.
Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.
Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.
What is an ESA Letter Template?
An ESA letter template is a structured example showing how a licensed professional formats and writes an ESA recommendation letter.
- It provides the basic layout and wording.
- It ensures all required elements are included.
- It helps landlords or housing providers recognize authenticity.
Why You Need a Proper ESA Letter
A valid ESA letter allows tenants to:
- ✅ Live with their emotional support animal in no-pet housing.
- ✅ Avoid pet fees or deposits.
- ✅ Protect themselves under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
Without the correct format and information, a landlord may deny your request.
Essential Components of an ESA Letter Template
A proper ESA letter template should include:
- Licensed Professional’s Information
- Full name
- Office address
- License type (psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor, etc.)
- License number & issuing state
- Contact details
- Date of Issue
- Letters must be current (within 1 year).
- Patient Information
- Full legal name
- Confirmation of ongoing professional relationship
- Clinical Statement
- Confirmation that the patient has a mental or emotional health condition recognized by the DSM-V.
- Statement that an ESA is part of their treatment plan.
- Legal References
- Mention of Fair Housing Act protections.
- Professional Signature
- Digital or physical signature.
Example ESA Letter Template (Sample Wording)
(Note: This is an example template for educational purposes only. A real letter must come from a licensed professional.)
[Licensed Professional’s Letterhead]
Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am a licensed [psychologist/psychiatrist/counselor] practicing in the state of [State]. I am writing to confirm that [Patient’s Full Name] is under my professional care.
Based on my evaluation, [Patient’s Name] has a mental health condition that significantly impacts their daily life. It is my professional opinion that the presence of an emotional support animal (ESA) is necessary to alleviate symptoms associated with this condition.
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), [Patient’s Name] is entitled to live with their ESA in housing that otherwise restricts animals or charges pet fees.
If you have any questions regarding this letter, you may contact my office at [Phone Number] or [Email Address].
Sincerely,
[Signature]
[Full Name, Credentials]
[License Number & State]
What a Fake ESA Template Looks Like
⚠️ Beware of sites that provide ESA “templates” without proper licensing. Red flags include:
- ❌ No provider information (no license number, no contact).
- ❌ Generic wording like “this person qualifies for an ESA” without evaluation.
- ❌ Lifetime validity claims (real ESA letters must be renewed annually).
- ❌ Certificates, ID cards, or “registrations” instead of a real letter.
Benefits of Having a Correct ESA Template
- ✅ Ensures legal compliance.
- ✅ Gives landlords confidence in authenticity.
- ✅ Reduces delays and disputes.
- ✅ Protects tenant rights under federal law.
ESA Letter Template for Housing vs. Travel
- Housing ESA Letter – Required under the Fair Housing Act for apartments, condos, or rented homes.
- Airline ESA Letter – After 2021, most airlines no longer recognize ESAs for free travel. Instead, ESAs are treated as pets. Only service animals are covered under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
So, while a housing ESA template is still very relevant, travel-related ESA templates are mostly outdated.
How to Get a Real ESA Letter Using a Template
- Consult a Licensed Professional
- Psychologist, psychiatrist, licensed counselor, or clinical social worker.
- Undergo an Evaluation
- Share your symptoms (anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc.).
- Request a Letter
- The professional will use a template to draft your official letter.
- Keep It Updated
- Renew yearly to maintain validity.
Common Questions About ESA Letter Templates
Q1: Can I just download a free template and use it?
No. A template is only an example. You need a licensed professional to issue it legally.
Q2: Do landlords accept all ESA templates?
Only if issued by a licensed provider. A fake template without credentials will be rejected.
Q3: How long is an ESA letter valid?
Typically 12 months. Renewal is required.
Q4: Can I use the same template for multiple animals?
Yes, if the provider specifies that more than one ESA is necessary.
Conclusion
An ESA letter template is a helpful guide to understand the structure of a valid letter. However, the template itself is not enough. To be legally valid, an ESA letter must be issued by a licensed mental health professional, include their credentials, and meet Fair Housing Act requirements.
If you rely on fake or incomplete templates, you risk losing your ESA housing protections. Always work with a legitimate provider who can create a customized letter based on your needs.If you rely on fake or incomplete templates, you risk losing your ESA housing protections. Always work with a legitimate provider who can create a customized letter based on your needs.
”Get Yours Now!
Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.
Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.
Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.
