Download Forms
Homepage ➔ Blank Emotional Support Animal Letter Form
Table of Contents

For many people, the bond with their emotional support animal (ESA) can be a vital part of their mental health and well-being. Understanding the Emotional Support Animal Letter form is essential for those seeking to have their pet recognized as an ESA. This form serves as a formal document from a licensed mental health professional, confirming that an individual has a mental or emotional disability and that their animal provides necessary support. It typically includes key details such as the professional’s qualifications, the individual’s needs, and the specific type of support the animal offers. Additionally, the letter must be dated and signed, ensuring it meets the required standards for housing and travel accommodations. Having this letter can make a significant difference in accessing the benefits and protections afforded to those with ESAs, allowing individuals to live more freely with their beloved companions.

More PDF Forms

How to Get My Paystubs - Subscription to electronic pay stubs can enhance your overall payroll experience.

For those looking to understand the intricacies of the transaction process, a thorough examination of the Alabama bill of sale form is highly beneficial. You can find more information in this detailed Alabama bill of sale form guide.

What Is an I9 - Often required by financial institutions for loan applications.

Doctor's Note to Return to Work - Contains a summary of participant rights while on work release.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Emotional Support Animal Letter form, it's important to be thorough and accurate. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Do provide clear and honest information about your emotional or psychological needs.
  • Do ensure that your letter is signed by a licensed mental health professional.
  • Don't exaggerate your situation or provide false information.
  • Don't forget to include all required details, such as your therapist's contact information and credentials.

Emotional Support Animal Letter Sample

Sample Letter from a Service Provider

[date]

Name of Professional (therapist, physician, psychiatrist, rehabilitation counselor)

XXXRoad

City, State Zip

Dear [Housing Authority/Landlord]:

[Full Name of Tenant] is my patient, and has been under my care since [date]. I am intimately familiar with his/her history and with the functional limitations imposed by his/her disability. He/She meets the definition of disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Due to mental illness, [first name] has certain limitations regarding [social interaction/coping with stress/ anxiety, etc.]. In order to help alleviate these difficulties, and to enhance his/her ability to live independently and to fully use and enjoy the dwelling unit you own and/or administer, I am prescribing an emotional support animal that will assist [first name] in coping with his/her disability.

I am familiar with the voluminous professional literature concerning the therapeutic benefits of assistance animals for people with disabilities such as that experienced by [first name]. Upon request, I will share citations to relevant studies, and would be happy to answer other questions you may have concerning my recommendation that [Full Name of Tenant] have an emotional support animal Should you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Name of Professional

Listed Questions and Answers

  1. What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letter?

    An Emotional Support Animal Letter is a document written by a licensed mental health professional. This letter states that an individual has a mental or emotional disability and that an ESA provides necessary support. It is important for those seeking to have their animal recognized as an emotional support animal, especially in housing situations or during travel.

  2. Who can provide an ESA Letter?

    Only licensed mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed clinical social workers, can issue an ESA Letter. These professionals must evaluate the individual to determine if they qualify for an emotional support animal based on their mental health needs.

  3. What information should be included in an ESA Letter?

    An effective ESA Letter should include:

    • The mental health professional's letterhead, including their license number.
    • The date the letter was written.
    • The patient's name and a statement confirming their emotional or mental health condition.
    • A declaration that the animal provides support and is necessary for the patient's well-being.
    • The professional's signature and contact information.
  4. Do I need to register my Emotional Support Animal?

    No official registration is required for an Emotional Support Animal. However, having an ESA Letter is essential to demonstrate the need for the animal. Some organizations may offer registration services, but these are not legally recognized and do not replace the need for a legitimate ESA Letter.

  5. Can my landlord deny my Emotional Support Animal?

    Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including allowing Emotional Support Animals. However, there are exceptions. If the animal poses a direct threat to the safety of others or causes significant property damage, the landlord may deny the request. Always communicate openly with your landlord and provide the necessary documentation.

  6. How often do I need to renew my ESA Letter?

    There is no set rule for how often an ESA Letter must be renewed, but it is generally advisable to have it updated annually. This ensures that your documentation remains current and reflects your ongoing need for support from your Emotional Support Animal.

Form Overview

Fact Name Description
Definition An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter is a document that certifies an individual requires an animal for emotional support.
Legal Basis In the U.S., ESAs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
Health Professional Requirement The letter must be issued by a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
State-Specific Laws Some states have additional laws governing ESAs, which may vary in terms of rights and responsibilities.
No Special Training Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specific training to assist individuals.
Housing Rights Under the FHA, individuals with ESAs may have the right to live with their animals in housing that typically prohibits pets.
Travel Rights ESAs may have certain travel rights under the ACAA, although airlines have updated their policies regarding ESAs.
Validity Period ESA letters generally do not have a set expiration date, but some landlords or airlines may require annual updates.
Documentation Individuals may need to provide the ESA letter upon request to housing providers or airlines.
Emotional Support vs. Service Animal It is important to understand that ESAs are not the same as service animals, which have specific training to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities.