Do ESA letters expire?

While ESA letters don't have a strict expiration date, it's always a good idea to renew yours annually! Landlords may ask for updated documentation, and renewing your ESA letter is a great way to show that your need for a support animal is still based on your current mental health or emotional condition.

Clinicians may not validate an ESA letter that is expired in the event a landlord or property manager reaches out to verify. An annual consultation with a clinician to discuss your needs for an ESA letter is advised in order to keep licensed professional recommendations current.

Landlords or property managers may refuse to accept an ESA letter that is expired. Renewing your letter enables you to provide current documentation that verifies your need for an emotional support animal as still relevant.

And from a clinical standpoint, it is necessary to conduct a new assessment after a year in order to determine if an ESA is still an appropriate recommendation.