🎥 Is a Video Assessment Required for ESA Letters? (2025 Update)

If you’re thinking about getting an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letter in 2025, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Do I need to do a video call to get approved?”

💡 Here’s the good news: In most states — including New York — a video call is not required for a legal ESA letter.

As long as you complete a legitimate evaluation with a licensed mental health professional in your state, a phone consultation is fully acceptable under federal and state housing laws. CertifyESA offers this option because it’s faster, more discreet, and equally legal.

📞 Phone vs. Video for ESA Evaluations: What the Law Says

There is no federal law — including the Fair Housing Act or HUD guidance — that requires a video call for an ESA letter evaluation. What matters is that you:

• Speak directly with a licensed mental health professional
• Are evaluated in good faith, with appropriate documentation
• Are located in the same state as the provider

That means a phone call satisfies the legal requirement, as long as the conversation is real, professional, and conducted by a licensed provider in your state.

CertifyESA proudly offers phone-based ESA assessments — saving you time, avoiding awkward video chats, and still meeting all legal and ethical standards.

🛑 Be Careful: Some States or Providers May Require More

While most states — including New York — accept phone assessments, some providers may choose to require a video call as part of their practice. That’s their decision, not a legal mandate.

CertifyESA only partners with therapists who accept phone consultations, so you won’t be forced into uncomfortable or unnecessary video sessions.

Want to double-check what’s required in your state? Our intake form routes you to a licensed provider in your region who meets all local and federal standards.

💬 What the ESA Letter Must Include

Regardless of whether the evaluation was done via phone or video, your ESA letter must include:

• Your name and confirmation of an emotional/mental disability
• Statement explaining how your ESA helps reduce symptoms
• Provider’s full name, license number, and state
• Date of issue and valid signature
• Contact info so landlords can verify if needed

CertifyESA letters include all of the above — and we offer free landlord verification if your building requests it.

🎉 Final Thoughts: No Video Needed, Just Real Support

If you’ve been putting off getting an ESA letter because of anxiety about video calls — we get it. That’s why CertifyESA has made the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

You can qualify for an ESA letter legally in 2025 with just a short phone consultation — and receive your letter in as little as 24 hours.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute legal or clinical advice. Always consult a licensed provider in your state.