In 2025, emotional support animals (ESAs) are more than just pets—they’re lifelines for millions of people facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. But to officially qualify for housing rights under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals need a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. So, where are most people turning to for these letters?
A new nationwide survey reveals the answer, spotlighting RealESALetter.com as the most widely used and trusted platform, followed closely by Pettable.com. If you’re wondering where to start your ESA journey or just want to see how these services compare, read on.
What the Survey Looked At
This 2025 survey collected data from over 10,000 participants across the U.S. to understand:
- How people are getting their ESA letters
- Which online services they trust most
- What factors influence their decision (e.g., speed, cost, legal compliance)
The results revealed not just preferences, but strong patterns—especially when it comes to convenience and trust.
Top ESA Letter Platforms in 2025
1. RealESALetter.com – The Market Leader
According to the survey, RealESALetter.com is the #1 platform people are using to get their ESA letters. A combination of speed, transparency, and credibility has made it the go-to for thousands.
Why people prefer it:
- Fast turnaround: Many users received their letters in just 24–48 hours. Some reported same-day approvals when applying early in the day.
- Licensed professionals: Each letter is written by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) practicing in the user’s state.
- 100% money-back guarantee: If you’re not approved, or your letter is denied by a landlord, you get a full refund.
- FHA compliance: Letters meet all federal housing law requirements, including therapist license details and official letterhead.
RealESALetter.com also scored highly in customer service, with live support and clear documentation provided throughout the process.
2. Pettable.com – A Trusted Alternative
Coming in second in popularity, Pettable.com remains a strong contender in the ESA space. It offers a very user-friendly experience that starts with a simple online quiz.
Why people like Pettable:
- Affordable pricing: Clear, flat rates with no surprise fees.
- Licensed therapists: Just like RealESALetter.com, they connect you with a therapist in your state.
- Quick process: While not always same-day, most users got their letters within a few days.
- Good customer reviews: Many users felt confident in the legitimacy of their documentation.
While a few respondents mentioned longer wait times compared to RealESALetter.com, the platform is still seen as a safe and effective option—especially for those looking for a guided, affordable process.
Other ESA Letter Services Mentioned
A small percentage of survey participants mentioned using:
- ESA Doctors
- PetCerts
- Wellness Wag
While these aren’t as popular as RealESALetter.com or Pettable.com, some users had positive experiences—especially for specific state requirements or renewals.
Why RealESALetter.com Is Leading the Pack
Survey respondents cited the following as their top reasons for choosing RealESALetter.com:
- Speed: The ability to get legally valid letters quickly is a big deal—especially for urgent housing issues.
- Legal coverage: Many users said they felt “legally protected” knowing the letter was FHA-compliant.
- Reputation: It’s one of the longest-standing services in the industry, with hundreds of verified reviews and a proven track record.
- No hidden fees: What you see is what you pay.
Survey Insights: Demographics and Preferences
Here’s a snapshot of what the survey uncovered:
- Millennials (ages 25–40) were the largest group getting ESA letters online.
- Urban residents used online services more frequently than rural ones.
Top factors influencing choice:
- Legal compliance (89%)
- Speed of delivery (76%)
- Clear refund policy (62%)
- Positive reviews (58%)
RealESALetter.com led across all of these categories, especially among renters dealing with strict housing policies.
How to Choose a Legitimate ESA Provider
If you’re considering an ESA letter, here are a few tips to avoid scams:
- Always confirm the therapist is licensed in your state.
- Avoid sites offering “instant approvals” or pet “registries.” These are not legally valid and often result in rejection by landlords.
- Look for official letterhead, license numbers, and signatures.
- Check refund policies before making a payment.
Legitimate platforms like RealESALetter.com and Pettable.com follow these protocols and make them clear during the application process.
What an ESA Letter Does and Doesn’t Do in 2025
- Housing: Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot deny housing to someone with a valid ESA letter or charge pet fees.
- Travel: Post-2021 changes to the Air Carrier Access Act mean airlines are no longer required to treat ESAs the same as service animals. You’ll likely have to follow standard pet travel rules, though an ESA letter can still help in some situations.
- Workplace or public spaces: ESA letters don’t guarantee rights in these settings unless specified.
Also remember: ESA letters are typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 ESA landscape is clear—more people than ever are turning to reputable online platforms to access their emotional support animal letters. And leading the way is RealESALetter.com, thanks to its speed, reliability, and full legal compliance. Pettable.com is another excellent option, especially for users who want affordability and solid customer service.
In the end, your ESA letter is more than a form—it’s a pathway to peace of mind, stable housing, and emotional balance. Just make sure you’re getting it from a trusted source.
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