ESA Evaluation For Every State

No. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords cannot deny an emotional support animal (ESA) as long as you have a legitimate ESA letter based on an evaluation conducted by a licensed professional.

Yes, if the letter comes from a licensed mental health professional who conducts a legitimate telehealth evaluation. Documentation generated instantly or through automated processes without a proper clinical assessment may be rejected by housing providers.

Generally, a valid ESA letter is sufficient in all 50 states. However, some states require an established 30-day patient–provider relationship with the licensed mental health professional conducting the evaluation. Many states also note that ESA letters expire after 12 months and must be renewed.

You generally cannot use emotional support documentation issued by a professional licensed in another state. The evaluation must be completed by a mental health professional licensed in the state where you currently reside to meet state-specific requirements and Fair Housing Act (FHA) standards. States such as California, Arkansas, Iowa, Louisiana, and Montana also require an established patient–provider relationship. If you move, a new in-state evaluation is typically needed to remain compliant.