Moving is stressful enough, never mind having to do it with an emotional support animal (ESA). In addition to moving all the dog supplies and ensuring your furry friend has ample room to run around at your new location, you need to think about pet policies, breed restrictions, and expensive pet fees. Even petting your emotional support dog may not be enough to calm your nerves!
Fortunately, the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) gives you a way to ask. You can request a reasonable accommodation for an assistance animal, which usually means asking your landlord to waive a no-pets policy or a pet deposit. In May 2026 HUD withdrew the guidance it issued in 2020 and now pursues complaints only where an animal is individually trained to assist with a disability. The Fair Housing Act itself did not change, many states have broader protections of their own, and tenants can still bring their own claims. Your letter supports the request. It does not decide it. Simply stating that your pet is an ESA is not enough, which is why the documentation matters.
USA Service Dogs can guide you through the process, making it as stress-free as possible.
The Step-by-Step Process for Landlord Approval
Step 1: Understand What Landlords Can and Cannot Ask For
Know your rights. Landlords can’t ask for detailed medical records or require your pet to perform specific ‘service animal-like’ tasks. However, they can require an ESA letter from a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP).
Step 2: Consult with a Licensed Therapist
To obtain an ESA letter, you must first be evaluated by a licensed therapist who can diagnose you with a qualifying condition, such as anxiety or depression. Keep in mind that some states have a 30-Day Rule, meaning you must be in a therapist’s care 30 days before obtaining an ESA letter. Consider your moving deadline when scheduling therapy appointments.
Step 3: Obtain Your ESA Letter
To be honored, an ESA letter must contain certain elements, such as:
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The provider’s name, professional title, type of license, license number, state of licensure, and contact information
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A statement confirming the provider-client relationship and that they have evaluated you
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Confirmation that you have a qualifying mental health condition and that the animal is part of your treatment
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The purpose of the letter- in this instance, it will be for housing accommodations
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The letter must be written on official letterhead, recently dated, and signed by hand or electronic signature
Step 4: Submit the Letter to Landlord
Submit the letter before signing the lease or moving in to ensure a smooth transition and maintain a good relationship with the landlord.
Warning: Avoid Instant or Fake ESA Letters
Be aware that many online sites sell instant ESA letters that may be unlicensed. Typically, your landlord will know they are fake and reject them. This could result in a denial of housing.
Ensure your letter comes from a licensed mental health professional and contains all the criteria previously outlined for a friction-free move-in process.
The Solution: How USA Service Dogs Can Help
At USA Service Dogs, we understand the path to moving with a service animal isn’t always straightforward. In addition to avoiding scams, you must work with a therapist who understands ESA laws and is licensed in your specific state. Finding the necessary services can be frustrating and expensive.
We support a seamless process with the following benefits:
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A therapist licensed in your state: We match you with a licensed mental health professional licensed where you live. Some states restrict or prohibit ESA evaluations conducted online, and we do not sell evaluations where we cannot provide a properly licensed clinician.
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We track the rules as they change: Housing rules differ by state and several have changed recently. You can look up your state in the Laws by State section of our resource center.
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A real evaluation, not a form: You are purchasing an evaluation, not a letter. The therapist decides whether a letter is appropriate. If they do not issue one, you are refunded the amount you paid less a $35 consultation fee for the clinician’s time.
Contact USA Service Dogs for Assistance with Your ESA Move
Don’t let a ‘no pets’ policy separate you from the emotional support dog you deserve. Start your ESA Letter evaluation today. We’ll put you in touch with a licensed therapist in your own state who will assist with your ESA approval and provide peace of mind in the moving process.
