How Much Does an ESA Letter Cost?

Are you considering getting an ESA letter? If so, you may be wondering about the cost of such a document. An emotional support animal (ESA) letter is essential documentation that allows people with mental health issues to keep their service animal in “no pet” apartments and on airplanes. But how much does it cost to get an ESA letter?

An ESA letter typically costs between $100 and $200, depending on where you obtain it, so it’s worth looking for affordable providers. You may also need to get more than one, for example, if you need one for travel and accommodation. You may also need to renew it on an annual basis. 

The answer isn’t straightforward, as several factors can affect the price, including the type of doctor who writes your letter and how long it takes to obtain one.

Learn more about ESA letters in the next section.

What is an ESA Letter?

An ESA letter functions similarly to a prescription. When managing one’s mental health, it advocates using an emotional support animal as part of one’s treatment strategy for various mental health conditions. This indicates that the mental health specialist believes that the therapeutic interaction and emotional comfort provided by emotional support animals can benefit their client. This letter must be issued by a doctor or licensed mental health professional.

ESAs are commonly prescribed to people who have a mental illness or emotional conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and other types of mental disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, a handbook published by the American Psychiatric Association and used by mental health professionals worldwide to establish reliable diagnoses.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of an ESA letter varies depending on several factors. The most important is the type of doctor or therapist who will write your letter. Generally speaking, psychiatrists charge higher fees than other licensed practitioners as they are considered specialists in the field.

The prices range between $100 and $200. If you require both a travel and a housing ESA letter, you may have to pay twice. You may also purchase a single ESA letter that covers your travel and lodging needs.

Also, remember that ESA letters are only valid for 12 months. As a result, you’ll need to renew your letters annually.

Where to Find Affordable ESA Letters

Despite the cost difference between doctors and therapists, it is possible to find affordable services if you’re on a budget. One option is to search online for specialized professionals who offer discounted or free online ESA letter services. You should also research local non-profit organizations that may offer discounted or free online ESA letter service. However, be extremely cautious not to get scammed.

Some of the reputable websites where you can get a legitimate ESA letter are:

• Fast ESA Letter
• ESA Doctors
• CertaPet
• US Service Animals
• ESA Pet
• American Service Pets

These websites provide a convenient and reliable way to connect with trained mental health professionals who can assess and write your ESA letter. They also offer additional services such as renewing\ expired letters, travel certificates, airline paperwork, etc.

How to Get an ESA Letter

The process is relatively straightforward and involves a few simple steps:

1. Find a doctor or licensed mental health professional specializing in emotional support animals.
2. Make an appointment and explain your need for an animal and why you qualify for an ESA letter.
3. After the doctor approves and writes your ESA letter, you can start enjoying the benefits of your emotional service companion. 

Who Can Write an ESA Letter?

As mentioned earlier, only certain health professionals can actually issue one. These include psychiatrists, psychologists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), certified counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, and other licensed mental health professionals in your state.