How to Get an Emotional Support Animal Letter in Minnesota: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide walks you through everything you need to know, including how to qualify for an ESA letter, the legal protections it gives you in housing, and what to expect from your mental health provider.

By James BrookePublished 9 months ago • 3 min read

If you’re living in Minnesota and struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or another emotional or mental health condition, an emotional support animal (ESA) might be the right step toward better mental well-being.

But how do you actually get a valid ESA letter in Minnesota?

What are your rights as a tenant? And what does Minnesota law say about emotional support animals?

This guide walks you through everything you need to know, including how to qualify for an ESA letter, the legal protections it gives you in housing, and what to expect from your mental health provider.

What Is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

An emotional support animal is a companion animal that provides comfort and emotional support to individuals suffering from mental or emotional health conditions. While ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks (like service animals), they can significantly reduce symptoms such as loneliness, anxiety, or panic attacks.

In Minnesota, ESAs are recognized under federal and state laws, allowing you to live with your pet in housing that might otherwise prohibit animals—so long as you have a valid emotional support animal letter.

Who Can Qualify for an ESA Letter in Minnesota?

To qualify, you must be diagnosed with a mental or emotional health condition listed in the DSM-5. These may include:

Generalized anxiety disorder
Depression
PTSD
Bipolar disorder
OCD
ADHD
Autism spectrum disorder
Panic disorder

A licensed mental health professional (LMHP) will evaluate whether an ESA could help relieve the symptoms of your condition. If so, they’ll issue a legally compliant ESA letter.

How to Get an ESA Letter in Minnesota (In 4 Steps)

1. Complete a Mental Health Screening:

Start with a quick online pre-screening to see if you may qualify.

2. Talk to a Licensed Minnesota-Based Therapist:

A mental health professional will assess your mental health via a phone or video call.

3. Receive Your ESA Letter:

Once approved, you’ll get a digital ESA letter within 24 hours. A physical copy is usually mailed to you as well.

4. Share with Your Landlord (If Needed):

Give your landlord the letter to request reasonable accommodation for your ESA.

ESA Housing Laws in Minnesota

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA):

You have the right to live with your ESA in housing with “no pets” policies.
Landlords cannot charge pet fees or deposits for your ESA.
Your ESA must not be a threat or cause damage to the property or other tenants.

Note: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) doesn’t apply to ESAs in public spaces. It only covers service animals. So don’t expect your ESA to be allowed inside public restaurants or stores.

Can You Travel with an ESA?

Unfortunately, under recent updates to the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals for air travel. Airlines may treat your ESA as a pet, meaning:

You may have to pay pet fees.
Your ESA might not be allowed in the cabin.
The airline may require vaccination records or behavior documentation.
Always check with your airline before booking.

FAQs About ESA Letters in Minnesota

Q: Can landlords deny an ESA letter in Minnesota?

A: No. As long as your ESA letter is valid and written by a licensed mental health professional, landlords in Minnesota must accommodate your ESA under the Fair Housing Act and MHRA.

Q: How long does it take to get an ESA letter in Minnesota?

A: Once evaluated by a therapist, you can receive your ESA letter digitally within 24 hours.

Q: What makes an ESA letter valid in Minnesota?

A: A valid letter must be from an LMHP, include their license info, state the individual’s need for an ESA, and be written on official letterhead.

Q: Can I take my ESA to work or public places in Minnesota?

A: No. ESAs do not have public access rights like service animals. You may request a workplace accommodation, but it's not guaranteed.

Q: Can I use an ESA registration instead of a letter?

A: No. ESA “registries” are often scams. Only a licensed therapist can write a legally valid ESA letter.

Q: Do Minnesota colleges allow emotional support animals in dorms?

A: Yes. Most colleges follow FHA rules and allow ESAs in campus housing if the student provides a valid ESA letter.