If you're a Florida resident struggling with emotional or mental health issues, an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) may offer the comfort and therapeutic support you need. But to ensure your ESA is legally recognized---especially for housing purposes---you must obtain a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) who is authorized to practice in Florida. This letter must confirm that you have a mental or emotional condition that qualifies under the Fair Housing Act and that the presence of an ESA is part of your treatment plan. The letter must also include key legal components such as the provider's license number, contact details, and signature. Whether issued in person or via a legally recognized online platform such as RealESALetter.com, the ESA letter becomes your gateway to housing protections---allowing you to live with your emotional support animal even in housing that typically prohibits pets.
What This Article Covers
This guide will walk you through the exact steps for obtaining an ESA letter in Florida, the legal standards you must meet, how to tell whether an ESA letter is valid or not, what Florida law says about misrepresentation, and which platforms provide reliable support. We'll also go over what rights you're entitled to once your letter is in hand.
Who Can Qualify for an ESA Letter in Florida?
Qualifying for an ESA letter in Florida means you must be experiencing a verified emotional or psychological condition that impacts your daily life. If you've been dealing with persistent feelings of anxiety, overwhelming panic, depressive episodes, or social withdrawal, you may meet the criteria. PTSD, OCD, ADHD (in emotionally disruptive forms), and generalized anxiety disorder are some of the most commonly approved conditions.
It's not just about having symptoms---it's about how those symptoms interfere with your ability to function. A Florida-licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist, therapist, or licensed clinical social worker, must conduct a legitimate assessment and determine that an ESA would offer therapeutic value.
What Does a Legitimate ESA Letter Include?
A valid ESA letter issued in Florida must go beyond generic statements or template-based approvals. The letter must follow both federal and state guidelines, including those outlined in Florida Senate Bill 1084. Specifically, it should:
- Be written by a licensed mental health provider in the state of Florida
- Result from a genuine evaluation, usually including a live video or phone consultation
- Include a clear recommendation for an ESA based on emotional or psychological need
- Provide the professional's license number, date of issuance, contact information, and signature
- Be printed on official letterhead
Landlords in Florida are allowed to verify the authenticity of the ESA letter and check whether it complies with Florida's legal requirements. If any part of the letter is missing or appears illegitimate, they may deny the accommodation request.
Can You Get a Legitimate ESA Letter Online in Florida?
