Craig PornoreyIf you’re going through a tough time, you might have been told at one point or another that getting an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) could help you cope better. Animals like cats, dogs, gerbils, and birds can provide comfort and support when you’re dealing with emotional or psychological issues, helping you manage your symptoms and feel better overall.
An ESA letter is an important document in this case that will let you live with your emotional support animal in housing situations where pets might otherwise not be allowed. You can get this document from a licensed mental health professional, which confirms that you need an ESA for emotional or psychological support.
This article is a complete guide on how to obtain and use ESA letters for housing, and what to do if your request gets turned down.
What Is an ESA Letter?
An ESA letter is a formal document from a licensed mental health professional that proves that a person has a genuine need for an ESA. Whether you’re traveling or moving into a new apartment, the letter will show how your pet improves your mental health. An ESA letter usually includes the following things:
- Prescribing Professional’s Details: It is issued by a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist, who is qualified to assess and diagnose mental health conditions. The letter usually includes their credentials and contact information for reference.
- Patient’s Diagnosis and ESA Requirement: The letter will explain your mental health condition and how your ESA helps alleviate your symptoms.
- Date of Issue: The letter will also include the date it was issued to make sure it is current and valid when needed.
How to Obtain an ESA Letter for Housing
The first step to obtaining an ESA letter for housing involves consulting a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Keep in mind that a coach or counselor typically cannot issue an ESA letter as they are not licensed to diagnose mental conditions.
During your consultation, you will discuss your mental health condition with the professional and how your pet supports your well-being. Your doctor will have specific criteria you need to meet for ESA support. If you qualify, you can then request the ESA letter. Make sure that it includes all the details we’ve mentioned above to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
What If Your ESA Request Is Denied?
The Fair Housing Act, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), forbids discrimination in housing based on disability. Landlords and housing providers are formally ordered to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities, such as mental health conditions.
If you believe that your ESA request has been wrongly denied, you can submit a formal appeal with any additional documentation or clarification needed. When adding further documentation to your application, don’t forget that landlords cannot ask for extensive medical records or personal information beyond what is stated in the ESA letter.
In the case that your landlord refuses to cooperate, you can seek the help of a legal professional who specializes in housing rights and ESAs.
They will help you address the denial and understand your rights under the Fair Housing Act.
Value Authenticity Above All
While it might be tempting to get an ESA letter from a service that doesn’t provide a thorough evaluation just to keep your beloved pet, remember that this can lead to more issues later on.
A valid ESA letter includes the professional’s contact information and credentials along with a statement confirming that the animal really does provide the necessary support for your mental health condition. Letters from unlicensed sources or online services without proper evaluation are not legally recognized and may not be accepted by landlords or airlines.
It is your duty to use lawful means and consult legal advisors where needed to start the next chapter with your furry friend.
