May 13, 2025 6 min read

Don’t Get Scammed—Know What to Look For in an ESA Letter Provider

The emotional support animal (ESA) industry has grown rapidly in recent years as more people seek comfort and mental health support through animal companionship. Unfortunately, this growing demand has also attracted opportunists—scammers and shady providers offering ESA letters that don’t hold up legally.

If you’re wondering how to get a legitimate ESA letter—or if you’re a therapist, family member, or pet lover seeking guidance—you’ve come to the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through:

• What an ESA letter really is (and is not)
• How to spot red flags and avoid fake providers
• The legal protections behind ESAs
• Steps to qualify for a valid letter
• Questions to ask any ESA service before committing
• And more

By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident navigating the ESA letter process and protecting your rights.

What Is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a pet that offers therapeutic benefits to individuals dealing with mental or emotional conditions. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks. Their power lies in their presence—offering comfort, companionship, and emotional grounding.

Common Conditions That May Qualify for an ESA:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorders
• Phobias
• Social anxiety
• Mood disorders

What Is an ESA Letter and Why Is It Important?

An ESA letter is a written recommendation from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) confirming that your emotional or psychological disability benefits from the presence of your animal.

A valid ESA letter must:

• Be written on the provider’s professional letterhead
• Include the therapist’s licensing details, including state and license number
• Clearly state your mental/emotional condition (without violating HIPAA)
• Recommend an ESA as part of your treatment
• Be dated within the past year (some airlines or landlords require a letter no older than 12 months)

Important: An ESA letter is the only document that provides legal recognition of your animal’s status under federal law.

Legal Rights and Protections for ESA Owners

1. Fair Housing Act (FHA)

The FHA requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs—even in housing with a “no pets” policy.

? You cannot be charged pet fees or deposits for an ESA.
? However, your landlord can deny the accommodation if the animal is a direct threat to others or causes undue burden.

2. Air Travel: The Current Landscape

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) used to allow ESAs on planes, but as of 2021, airlines are no longer required to accommodate ESAs. Many airlines now classify ESAs as regular pets—so check your airline’s policy before flying.

3. Workplace and Public Spaces

ESAs do not have the same access rights as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employers and businesses are not legally required to allow ESAs. However, often identifying them with an ESA registration kit and requesting accommodation, you find that many places are accommodating.

How to Qualify for an ESA Letter: Step-by-Step

You must have a diagnosed emotional or mental health condition that substantially limits your daily life.

Here’s how to qualify:

1. Speak with a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP)
   • This can be a psychologist, therapist, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or psychiatrist.
2. Undergo a mental health evaluation
   • Some providers offer in-person or online assessments.
3. Obtain a written ESA letter
   • The letter must follow FHA guidelines and include all the necessary components.

How to Spot a Reputable ESA Letter Provider

With so many online platforms offering instant ESA letters, it’s critical to know what separates the legitimate from the illegal or ineffective.

✅ Signs of a Reputable Provider:

• You’re evaluated by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP)
• The provider asks for a clinical intake or mental health history
• The letter includes your provider’s license number, date, and contact info
• The provider is available for follow-up communication if a landlord or housing authority has questions
• They’re transparent about pricing, services, and timelines

? Red Flags to Avoid:

• “Instant ESA Letter” without an evaluation
• No live interaction with a therapist (even via video or phone)
• No license number or signature on the letter
• Promises of guaranteed acceptance for housing or travel
• Offers to “register” your ESA in a national database (this is a scam—no such registry exists!)

Top Questions to Ask Before Choosing an ESA Letter Provider

1. Is the evaluation performed by a licensed mental health professional?
2. Will I have a live consultation or just fill out a form?
3. Can I contact the provider if my landlord needs to verify the letter?
4. Is the provider compliant with state laws for telehealth?
5. What’s included in the service—just the letter or ongoing support?
6. Is there a refund policy if the letter is denied?

Real-Life Example: A Tale of Two ESA Letters

Case Study 1: James’ Housing Denial
James paid $49 for an “instant ESA certificate” from an online service. The letter didn’t list a therapist, wasn’t on letterhead, and lacked a license number. His landlord rejected the letter, and James had to reapply through a licensed provider.

Case Study 2: Maria’s Success
Maria met virtually with a licensed therapist. After a 30-minute consultation, she received a legitimate letter with full credentials. When her landlord asked for verification, the therapist promptly confirmed the details—Maria moved in with her ESA without issue.

Tips for Choosing the Right ESA Letter Provider

• Do your research: Look for verified reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, and credentials.
• Avoid low-cost “instant” services: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Look for transparent pricing: Most legitimate services charge between $99 and $200 for a letter after an evaluation.
• Check for support: A reputable provider will help if you run into issues with your landlord or need renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is registering my ESA in a national database required?
A: No. There is no government sanctioned registry for emotional support animals. A valid ESA letter is all you need for housing.

Q: How long does an ESA letter last?
A: Most ESA letters are valid for 12 months. You’ll need an updated letter annually for housing requests.

Q: Can I get an ESA letter online?
A: Yes—but only if the evaluation is done by a licensed professional legally allowed to practice telehealth in your state.

Q: Can any pet be an ESA?
A: In most cases, yes. Dogs and cats are most common, but other animals like rabbits, birds, or even mini pigs can qualify.

Q: Can a primary care doctor write an ESA letter?
A: Technically, yes—but it’s best to get a letter from a licensed therapist or mental health specialist familiar with the process.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts—And Do Your Homework

The right ESA letter provider can make a world of difference—not just legally, but emotionally and personally. Your support animal is an essential part of your well-being. Don’t trust just anyone with your mental health or housing rights.

Take your time, ask the right questions, and choose a provider who respects the process—and your journey. Reach out to NSAR staff with any questions, we’re here to help!

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Need help finding a reputable ESA letter provider or want to talk to a licensed therapist? We’ve helped thousands safely and legally get their emotional support animals recognized. Contact us today – 719-828-3447