ESA Letter Renewal Guide - When and How to Renew Your Letter

ESA letters don't last forever. Understanding when and how to renew your letter ensures you maintain your housing protections without interruption.

How Long is an ESA Letter Valid?

Most ESA letters are valid for one year from the date of issue. This is the industry standard and what most landlords expect.

Why One Year?

• Mental health conditions can change over time
• Ensures ongoing professional oversight
• Aligns with typical lease renewal periods
• Follows HUD guidance on "reliable" documentation

Can Letters Be Valid Longer?

Some providers issue letters valid for longer periods, but:

• Landlords may question letters older than one year
• HUD guidance suggests annual verification is reasonable
• Your mental health needs should be reassessed periodically

When Should You Renew?

Ideal Timeline

Triggers for Renewal

You should renew your ESA letter when:

1. Your letter is approaching expiration (within 30-60 days)
2. Your lease is renewing and landlord requests updated documentation
3. You're moving to a new rental property
4. Your landlord requests updated documentation (they can do this annually)

The Renewal Process

Step 1: Contact Your Provider

If you used a telehealth service or have an existing therapist:

• Reach out to schedule a renewal evaluation
• Many services offer streamlined renewal processes
• Some providers offer renewal discounts

Step 2: Complete the Renewal Evaluation

The renewal evaluation is typically:

• Shorter than the initial evaluation (15-30 minutes vs. 30-60 minutes)
• Focused on your current mental health status
• Confirming your continued need for an ESA

Step 3: Receive Your Updated Letter

Your new letter should include:

• Current date
• Updated validity period
• Same required elements as your original letter

Step 4: Submit to Landlord (If Needed)

If your landlord has requested updated documentation or you're renewing your lease, provide the new letter promptly.

Renewal Evaluation: What to Expect

Questions You May Be Asked

• How has your mental health been over the past year?
• Is your ESA still providing therapeutic benefit?
• Have there been any changes in your condition?
• Are you still living in the same housing situation?
• Have you experienced any issues with your landlord?

What the Provider is Assessing

1. Continued disability - Do you still have a qualifying condition?
2. Continued need - Does an ESA still help with your symptoms?
3. Effectiveness - Is the ESA providing therapeutic benefit?

Renewal Costs

Tip: Many telehealth services offer renewal discounts for returning patients. Ask about renewal pricing before scheduling.

What If Your Situation Has Changed?

New Animal

If you have a different ESA than before:

• Inform your provider during the evaluation
• Your letter will reference your current animal
• The evaluation process is the same

New Address

If you've moved:

• Update your provider with your new address
• Your letter should reflect your current residence
• You may need to submit to a new landlord

Changed Mental Health Status

If your condition has improved:

• Be honest with your provider
• They'll assess if you still qualify
• Improvement doesn't automatically disqualify you

If your condition has worsened:

• Discuss this with your provider
• They may recommend additional treatment
• Your ESA letter can still be renewed

Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Waiting Too Long

Problem: Your letter expires before you get a new one. Solution: Start the renewal process 30-60 days early.

Mistake 2: Using a Different Provider Without Records

Problem: Starting from scratch is more expensive and time-consuming. Solution: Keep records of your original provider for easy renewal.

Mistake 3: Not Informing Your Landlord

Problem: Landlord may think your accommodation has lapsed. Solution: Proactively provide updated documentation.

Mistake 4: Falling for "Lifetime" Letters

Problem: These aren't recognized and may be scams. Solution: Stick with annual letters from legitimate providers.

Do You Always Need to Renew?

When Renewal is Required

• Landlord requests updated documentation (allowed annually)
• You're signing a new lease
• You're moving to a new property
• Your letter has expired

When Renewal May Not Be Needed

• Your landlord hasn't requested updated documentation
• You're in the middle of a lease term
• Your letter is still within its validity period

However: It's always good practice to keep your letter current, even if not explicitly required.

Landlord Requests for Renewal

What Landlords Can Do

• Request updated documentation once per year
• Ask for verification that your provider is still licensed
• Require documentation at lease renewal

What Landlords Cannot Do

• Require renewal more than once per year
• Demand to speak with your provider
• Ask for additional medical information beyond the letter
• Charge fees for processing your renewal

Tips for Smooth Renewals

Keep Good Records

Maintain a file with:

• Original ESA letter
• Provider contact information
• Correspondence with landlord
• Dates of all submissions

Set Reminders

Set calendar reminders:

• 60 days before expiration: Research renewal options
• 30 days before expiration: Schedule evaluation
• 14 days before expiration: Follow up if letter not received

Maintain Provider Relationship

If possible:

• Use the same provider for renewals
• Keep their contact information handy
• Update them on any changes in your situation

Stay Informed

• Laws and regulations can change
• HUD guidance may be updated
• Stay current on your rights

Renewal vs. New Evaluation

---

Is your ESA letter expiring soon? Check your eligibility to start the renewal process.

---

Related Articles

• How Much Does an ESA Letter Cost? - Understanding pricing for new and renewal letters.
• How to Talk to Your Landlord - Presenting your renewed letter.
• Know Your ESA Rights - Understanding your legal protections.