Cat Parent
"I would give my experience 10000/5 stars! I have already recommended your company to another friend. It was a straightforward no gimmicks service, and the doctor was genuinely concerned.
My new rescue cat Marston really appreciates that he is able to live with me now!
Dog Parent
"I would definitely say a 5/5 star rating! It was the best service I have ever received. They were quick, and knew what was needed for the time being!"
Cat Parent
"They are five stars all the way! The site helped set me up with a professional therapist, who is licensed in my state. It was very easy to setup calls or opportunities to communicate with them that worked for both of us.
Most of all they allowed me to keep my cats Mew and Espurr. “
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How to Get an ESA Letter in Illinois Online
Getting an emotional support animal (ESA) letter in Illinois is easier than you think — especially with Pettable. First, take our online ESA assessment quiz to determine your eligibility. Next, we will match you with a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) practicing in Illinois, determined in part by your specific mental health disorder. Your LMHP will schedule a virtual evaluation where you can discuss your challenges and needs, and they can diagnose your mental health disorder. Finally, they will issue your official ESA letter, which you’ll receive within 24-48 hours.
Emotional Support Animal Laws in Illinois
In Illinois, there are no state-specific laws related to ESAs, but thanks to the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), these assistance animals have some serious protections. The FHA prohibits housing companies and landlords from discriminating against disabled Americans when it comes to their housing. Thanks to this law, housing managers are required to allow your ESA to live with you in your rental home or apartment, regardless of any no-pet rules. They are also forbidden from charging any pet fees, deposits, or extra rent due to your ESA, so wherever you may live in the Prairie State — or anywhere else in the U.S.
However, other federal laws regarding assistance animals, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), do not apply to ESAs. Because they are not considered service animals, they are not normally allowed in public spaces and accommodations, and they aren’t guaranteed special privilege during air travel. Only service animals are covered by these laws, in Illinois and beyond.
Emotional Support Animals in Illinois
The state of Illinois acknowledges the difficulties that can come with mental and emotional disabilities. It also recognizes the significant role an emotional support animal can play in a person's treatment plan for such disabilities.
Because of this, any Illinois resident with an emotional or mental disability can live anywhere in the state with an emotional support animal, as long as you first obtain an ESA housing letter.
ESA Registration In Illinois Is Not Required
Another fraudulent product running rampant online is “ESA registration.” This would be paying for a company or organization to put you and your assistance animal’s information and store it in a database. In Illinois, and the U.S., in general, ESA registration is not required and has no bearing on your animal’s status. There are no federal or state registries for ESAs or service animals, and there’s no law demanding that you register your critter anywhere. In fact, if all you have is your ESA in a registry without having an ESA letter, your animal is merely a pet.
Who Qualifies for an ESA in Illinois?
If you’re a resident of Illinois and you’re struggling with mental health challenges, you probably qualify for an ESA. This type of assistance animal classification is available to anyone living with a mental health disorder or emotional struggles. Qualifying conditions include:
- Mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder
- Learning disabilities
- Substance use disorders
- Cognitive disorders
- Motor skill disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Advantages of an Emotional Support Animal for Illinois Residents
Waive Additional Housing Costs
Owning an ESA in Illinois comes with significant housing benefits, including relief from additional pet rent, deposits, or fees due to the protective measures provided by an ESA certification. This allows you and your pet to reside in many housing situations without extra charges, even in buildings that typically enforce a no-pets policy, ensuring your support animal can stay with you without posing financial burdens or restrictions, given they are not a threat to the property or other residents.
Encourage A Positive Daily Structure
Having an ESA naturally involves caretaking activities that can help foster a structured daily routine. Engaging in regular activities such as walking your dog, interacting with your cat, or caring for your bird encourages physical activity and mental engagement, steering your focus away from daily stressors towards fulfilling responsibilities.
Boost Mental and Emotional Well-being
The responsibility of looking after an ESA can significantly bolster your mental and emotional health. The companionship of an assistance animal can mitigate feelings of isolation, offer comforting physical contact, and enhance your self-esteem and emotional resilience.
How to Get a Psychiatric Service Dog in Illinois
If you think you need more than just emotional support, consider adding a psychiatric service dog to your life, and benefit from all the federal protections that come with it. To get started, take Pettable’s online PSD training plan quiz and let us guide your way. If you already have a canine companion, we’ll help you train them to perform tasks directly related to your mental health disorder. Together, you and your PSD can have a more enjoyable life together.
Why Pettable is the Best Online ESA Provider in Illinois
Pettable offers more security and transparency than any other online ESA letter-writing service out there. We surveyed the top online ESA sites, the services they provide, and objective reviews from 3rd party sites – the chart below shows our findings.
The things that set us apart? We provide a satisfaction guarantee for your ESA letter. We always have live consultations between the LMHP and the client. We maintain transparency about our processes. Don't believe us? Just check out the ratings and reviews from real customers who recommend our service.
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