Get an ESA Letter in Maryland
4,921 Reviews · Excellent100% refund if you’re not approved for an ESA letter
Most Trusted ESA Letter Company In America
Block insertion point
Meet the Maryland Mental Health Experts Behind Your ESA Letter
Real, licensed clinicians with decades of experience.
Keith A. WelshLCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified EMDR Therapist, and graduate social work professor with 20+ years in practice. He conducts ethical, evidence-informed evaluations for Maryland residents.
Leslie GambleLCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with about 13 years in practice and a Howard University MSW. She works with all ages using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, serving Maryland residents.
For residents of Maryland looking to get an ESA letter, your easiest choice is to opt for a telehealth appointment. This is because you will need to have a consultation with a mental health professional who is licensed in the state and thoroughly understands Maryland's ESA laws for your letter to be legally valid.
By choosing to have an online consultation, you can alleviate some of the worries that can arise from in-person appointments. You won't have to stress about whether there is someone in your city or town that you can talk to, you will not have to travel, and you will be able to talk about your condition in the comfort of your own home.
We can help you to do this at US Service Animals. We'll help you get in contact with a Maryland-licensed mental health professional who has a deep understanding of Maryland’s ESA laws. Get in contact with us today to find out if you qualify.
Maryland-Compliant ESA Letters
As Maryland does not have any state-specific requirements on emotional support animal letters, the only regulations are set out at a federal level. Specifically, you will need to have a consultation with a mental health professional who is licensed to practice in the state of Maryland in order for your letter to make you eligible for the protections under the Fair Housing Act.
Our letters at US Service Animals follow federal requirements and come with a money-back guarantee, so that you can rest assured that your letter will be legally valid.
Our Fast and 100% Legally Compliant 3-Step Process
If your ESA letter is not legally accepted, we will refund you 100% of your payment.
What Some of Our ESA Customers Are Saying
Verified reviews from Maryland customers, collected by Shopper Approved:
Beyond grateful for this company as obtaining this documentation to protect our dog Eve has done wonders for our family as a neighbor of ours has relentlessly harassed and discriminated against our Eve because she is an American Pitt mix! Eve is 1/4 of our family & we will always protect her! Registering your dog as an emotional support animal is a great way to protect your dog and your family’s rights to live a beautiful life together no matter what breed they are!
My experience was great. Everything was done quickly, productively, and within minutes. I’m glad that I had a good team to help me with the whole process. Pricing was good as well. If you’re looking for certifying your pet to be an emotional support animal this is a place you should go.
The service is affordable and so worth the investment. The peace of mind of knowing you can’t be excluded from housing for having animals that enrich your life is priceless. The site is easy to navigate, and the reps are always so helpful and responsive. HIGHLY recommend.
They were very courteous and kind throughout the whole process, the on call therapist was very kind and listened to what was going on and was very speedy about getting me my ESA letter
My overall experience was quick and efficient and I received all documentation that I needed for my housing and my ESA was approved. Thank you!
It was very easy to fill out the information on the site. It is a secure site, we can use it without any worries. I received the emotional support card very quickly. They are very efficient. I recommend.
Reviews collected and verified by Shopper Approved · 6 shown
Why an ESA Letter Makes Life Easier in Maryland
A valid emotional support animal letter gives you access to additional rights and accommodations in Maryland that are not usually granted to people with regular pets.
- Exemption to No Pet Rules. Under the Fair Housing Act, tenants should be permitted to keep their emotional support animal in all Maryland rental properties, regardless of whether they have a no-pet policy, as long as they do not pose a serious health and safety risk.
- Avoid Pet Deposits and Fees. Landlords cannot charge pet deposits or additional pet fees to ESA letter owners in Maryland.
- Avoid Breed and Weight Rules. ESAs are not subject to breed or size restrictions in Maryland housing, meaning you can live with any type of animal, even if they are less common than regular pets.
- Have Official Documentation Your Landlord Must Recognize. If you have a legal ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional in Maryland, your landlord must acknowledge it and abide by the rules set out in the Fair Housing Act.
- Annually Renew Your ESA Letter. To keep your protections, you must renew your ESA letter yearly. We can make this process simple with reminders and our easy follow-up consultations.
Emotional Support Animals in Maryland
A person living in Maryland with an emotional or mental disability listed in the DSM-5 may be able to qualify for an emotional support animal. This process for obtaining an ESA letter requires an assessment from a licensed mental health professional.
Emotional support animals can provide vital assistance to people facing emotional or mental disabilities. When used alongside other elements of a mental health treatment program, they can offer comfort and companionship, while also helping individuals enjoy a better quality of life, greater independence, and improved mental well-being.
For someone who may benefit from this kind of support, an emotional support animal can be recommended as part of their overall treatment plan. Maryland also follows federal laws and policies intended to accommodate individuals who rely on ESAs in recognition of the support that they can bring.
If you would like to establish whether you qualify for an emotional support animal in Maryland, US Service Animals can help connect you with a licensed mental health professional in the state.
How Do You Qualify for an ESA in Maryland?
To qualify for an ESA in Maryland, you'll need to complete a consultation with a licensed mental health professional practicing in the state. If they determine that you meet the qualifications, they'll be able to issue a valid ESA letter.
Mental health conditions that may qualify include Schizophrenia, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Panic Disorder, Severe Phobias, and Eating Disorders.
US Service Animals offers a convenient telehealth option that connects you with licensed Maryland mental health professionals. We'll support you throughout the evaluation process and help make getting your ESA letter simple and stress-free.
ESA Travel Laws in Maryland
Under the previous Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) rules, emotional support animals could fly in airline cabins free of charge with their handlers. Since the law was updated in January 2021, airlines are no longer required to provide that accommodation.
Instead, each airline now determines whether it will allow emotional support animals to travel. Many have adopted pet policies, meaning ESA owners may need to pay pet fees or comply with additional restrictions.
ESAs also do not receive guaranteed access to other public transportation services such as taxis, buses, or trains. Properly trained psychiatric service dogs (PSDs), however, are still permitted to travel in airline cabins and accompany their handlers on public transportation. Learn more about the differences between emotional support animals and psychiatric service dogs below.
ESA Housing Laws in Maryland
The federal Fair Housing Act protects emotional support animals in Maryland, allowing qualifying individuals to keep their ESA in most housing regardless of pet policies or breed and size restrictions. They are also exempt from pet fees and pet deposits, though they remain responsible for serious damage their ESA may cause to the property.
These protections are in place to make sure that people with a mental or emotional disability can have an ESA when it is considered a necessary part of their treatment program.
ESA Employment Laws in Maryland
Maryland does not currently have state laws requiring employers to allow emotional support animals in the workplace. Like many states, ESA workplace access is generally determined by the policies and discretion of individual employers.
If you would like to discuss bringing your ESA to work in Maryland, contact your employer’s HR department to talk about your circumstances and whether reasonable accommodations may be considered.
Having an ESA letter may help support your request when communicating with your employer. Reach out to US Service Animals today to learn more about the process and see if you qualify.
Get an ESA Letter in Your Maryland City
Although ESA policy remains largely the same throughout Maryland, many are curious about how ESA laws operate in different locations. Learn more about ESAs in your specific Maryland city.
Common Misunderstandings About ESAs in Maryland
We’re here to clear up some common misunderstandings about ESAs in Maryland.
False: ESAs have the same rights as service animals and can accompany you everywhere in Maryland.
True: Emotional support animals are not the same as service dogs and do not receive the same public access protections in Maryland. ESA access depends on the setting and applicable policies.
False: You can obtain an ESA letter without speaking with a licensed mental health professional.
True: A consultation with a licensed mental health professional is required so they can assess your situation and determine whether an ESA is appropriate for your needs.
False: ESA registration is needed to make your animal legally recognized.
True: Registration does not provide legal protection and is not required in Maryland. A valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional is the documentation that supports an ESA.
What’s the Difference Between an ESA and a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) in California?
While ESAs and PSDs have some overlapping rights, there are major differences between the two types of support animals in California.
| ESA | PSD |
|---|---|
| Can be almost any animal | Must be a dog |
| Has the right to live in almost any pet-free housing | Has the right to live in almost any pet-free housing |
| Free from breed, weight, and size restrictions | Free from breed, weight, and size restrictions |
| Exempt from pet fees and deposits | Exempt from pet fees and deposits |
| Requires no specific training (short of basic obedience) | Must undergo intensive psychiatric service dog training |
| No public access rights | Public access rights |
| No legal right to fly for free in an airplane cabin | Legally allowed to fly for free with you in an airplane cabin without being in a carrier |
If you think a PSD is the right option for you, you can find out more about our online PSD training course.
Why Choose US Service Animals?
Since US Service Animals was founded by lawyers, you can feel confident that every step of our ESA letter process is legally valid. Not only that, we've put together an extraordinary legal team to assist you if you encounter any ESA-related legal issues.
Our Customer Support Team Can't Be Beat
If you have questions about us or ESAs in general, or if you need help with any step of the process, our customer support team is always there for you. Every member is well-versed in Maryland ESA laws – and even better, each one is empathetic, patient, and eager to help everyone get the support they deserve.
You'll Be Given a Legitimate Evaluation
The only way to obtain an ESA legally in Maryland is to form a client-patient relationship with a licensed mental health worker. Thanks to our telehealth services, you'll be paired with a fully qualified and licensed mental health worker in Maryland who will take the time to properly diagnose you and make sure you're getting the exact support you need.
Our ESA Letters Are Backed by a Money-Back Guarantee
We never want you to worry that your letter won't work for you, or that you'll pay for a service that won't actually help you. This is why we offer a full, 100% money-back refund if your ESA letter fails you.
Licensed in Maryland – and Nationwide
At US Service Animals, we know the ins and outs of Maryland's ESA laws and have a network of mental health professionals licensed in Maryland ready to assist you. We also have mental health professionals in all 50 states, so if you ever need to relocate, we can help make sure your ESA can come with you.
Our Process Is Simple, Transparent, and Stress-Free
We believe in making every step of our process as easy, clear, and straightforward as possible. After all, our goal is to help reduce your stress – not add to it. On top of that, our legal and customer support teams are here to help if you have any issues whatsoever. With US Service Animals, you're never alone.
Licensed Mental Health Providers in Maryland
Through US Service Animals, individuals in Maryland can connect with multiple Maryland-licensed mental health professionals who provide knowledgeable and compassionate support. We carefully vet every provider we work with to ensure they meet our expectations for professionalism, experience, and care. You can trust that you’ll be connected with a qualified mental health professional who understands the ESA process.
Why US Service Animals Is the Best Online ESA Letter Service
US Service Animals is the best ESA letter service because we are deeply committed to doing everything we can to help those with mental or emotional disabilities get the support they deserve. Not only does this mean we offer legally valid and legitimate ESA letters to those who qualify, but we also make the process easy, have an empathetic customer service team, offer the best legal support, and will refund your letter if it doesn't work for you.
Plus, our outstanding 4.9-star rating on Trustpilot, with over 6,000 reviews, speaks for itself. We've helped thousands of people get the support they deserve – and we're eager to help you as well.
| Service Provider | Money Back Guarantee | Legal Support | Live Consultations | BBB Ratings | TrustPilot Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Service Animals | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | A+ | |
| Pettable | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | A+ | |
| ESA Doctors | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | A+ | |
| American Service Pets | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | A+ |
Get Your Official ESA Letter in Maryland Today
Ready to see if you qualify for an ESA in Maryland? Begin your ESA journey with US Service Animals today and get started with the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I qualify for an ESA in Maryland?
You may qualify if you have a mental or emotional disability recognized in the DSM‑5. A licensed mental health professional authorized to practice in Maryland must evaluate your condition and determine whether an emotional support animal is appropriate for your treatment.
Who is qualified to write an ESA letter in Maryland?
A licensed mental health professional or another healthcare provider authorized to practice, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions in Maryland can write an ESA letter in Maryland. The letter must be based on a legitimate clinical evaluation.
Can a landlord deny my ESA in Maryland?
Generally, no. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must usually provide reasonable accommodation for tenants with a valid ESA letter. They can deny a request only in limited situations, such as when the animal poses a direct threat or would cause significant property damage.
How can I get my animal certified as an ESA in Maryland?
There is no legally required certification or registration for emotional support animals in Maryland or anywhere else in the U.S. The only document legally required to establish an ESA is a valid ESA letter from an Maryland-licensed mental health professional (LMHP). While some owners choose to register their ESA for added convenience, organization, or identification, registration is optional and does not replace the need for a valid ESA letter.
How do you get an ESA in Maryland?
To get an ESA in Maryland, complete a mental health evaluation with a licensed provider. If you qualify, you'll receive an ESA letter that can be used to request housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act.
How many ESAs can I have in Maryland?
There is no federal or Maryland law that limits the number of emotional support animals you can have. Your healthcare provider must determine that each animal is necessary for your disability-related needs.
Are online ESA certifications legal in Maryland?
Online ESA registration or certification services are not legally required and, by themselves, do not provide housing rights under federal law. The document that establishes your ESA is a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional who evaluates your need for one. While some pet owners choose to register their ESA for added organization, identification, or personal recordkeeping, registration is optional and does not replace a valid Maryland ESA letter.
Can I fly with my ESA in Maryland?
Emotional support animals in Maryland do not have any special legal rights that allow them to fly with you. Under current federal rules, airlines may treat ESAs as pets and apply their standard pet policies. Only trained psychiatric service dogs are protected under the Air Carrier Access Act.
Where can I bring my ESA in Maryland?
ESAs are generally protected in housing but do not have the same public access rights as service animals. Most businesses, restaurants, and stores in Maryland can choose whether to allow emotional support animals.
Can hotels in Maryland deny my ESA?
Yes. Hotels are not covered by the FHA and can follow their pet policy. Some may allow ESAs as a courtesy, but they are not required to.
Can Airbnb hosts deny my ESA in Maryland?
Yes. Airbnb hosts can generally enforce their pet policy and may deny an ESA, unless the property is considered long‑term housing covered by FHA (usually 30+ days).
Are ESAs allowed on school campuses in Maryland?
It depends. Colleges and universities in Maryland may consider housing accommodations for students with valid ESA letters, but emotional support animals are generally not allowed in classrooms or other campus buildings unless specifically approved.
Can I renew my ESA letter in Maryland?
Yes. While ESA letters do not have a federally mandated expiration date, many landlords prefer or request documentation issued within the past year. Renewing your Maryland ESA letter annually helps ensure your records stay current and can make the housing process smoother. If you obtain your ESA letter through US Service Animal, you'll also receive renewal reminders, making it easy to keep your documentation up to date.
How much does an ESA letter cost in Maryland?
ESA letter costs vary by provider. At US Service Animals, an ESA evaluation and letter costs $199.99 if you qualify. While some providers charge less, the price includes a legally compliant evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional and legal support if your MarylandESA letter is ever questioned by a housing provider.
Is ESA registration or certification required in Maryland?
No. Maryland does not require ESA registration, certification, or licensing. A valid ESA letter from a licensed healthcare provider is the only documentation generally needed for housing accommodations.
What should an ESA letter include for Maryland?
A valid Maryland ESA letter should include the provider's name, license information, contact details, date of issuance, and confirmation that you have a qualifying condition for which an emotional support animal is recommended. It should also be signed by the provider.
How do I know if an ESA letter service is legitimate in Maryland?
Choose a reputable provider, like US Service Animal, that connects you with an Maryland-licensed healthcare professional who conducts a real clinical evaluation before issuing an ESA letter. Be cautious of services that offer instant approvals without an assessment. While ESA registrations and ID cards may be available as optional products, they do not replace a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional.