Do You Need a New ESA Letter in Colorado Every Year? Renewal Guide 2025

Introduction

An emotional support animal (ESA) provides comfort and relief to people with emotional or mental health conditions. An ESA letter is an official document from a licensed mental health professional that confirms you qualify for an emotional support animal.

If you live in the state of Colorado, you might wonder, "Do I need to renew my ESA letter every year?" Staying compliant with Colorado ESA laws is essential to maintaining your rights and ensuring your emotional support animal is protected. This guide will answer your questions and explain the renewal process.

Understanding ESA Letter Validity in Colorado

Does a Colorado ESA Letter Expire?

Yes, in most cases, a valid ESA letter is only recognized for one year. Many landlords and housing authorities request a recent ESA letter to confirm your ongoing need for an emotional support animal.

How Long Is an ESA Letter Valid in Colorado?

Under Colorado ESA laws, your ESA letter in Colorado is typically valid for 12 months. To maintain legal protections under the Fair Housing Act, you may need to get an ESA letter renewal annually.

Are There Specific Laws Requiring Annual Renewal?

While no federal law mandates yearly renewals, many landlords follow best practices by requiring a legitimate ESA letter no older than one year. Renewing your ESA letter ensures you stay protected under Colorado ESA laws.

Why Renewing Your ESA Letter is Important

1. Ensuring Legal Protection: A valid emotional support animal letter helps you retain legal protections under the Fair Housing Act and Colorado ESA laws.

2. Updated Medical Documentation: An updated ESA letter proves your ongoing need for an emotional support animal.

3. Avoiding Housing Issues: Without a valid ESA letter, landlords can deny your request for reasonable accommodation.

Signs That You Need a New ESA Letter

• Your current ESA letter is over a year old.

• Your landlord requests an updated ESA letter.

• You’ve moved to a new residence with different pet policies.

• You recently got a new emotional support animal.

How to Renew Your ESA Letter in Colorado

Step 1: Find a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP)

Consult a licensed mental health professional who can evaluate your emotional or mental health needs.

Step 2: Get a New Evaluation (If Needed)

Your ESA needs may change, so an updated assessment ensures you qualify for an emotional support animal.

Step 3: Request a Renewal Letter

Ask your licensed mental health professional for a legitimate ESA letter renewal. Ensure the letter must include:

• Confirmation of your need for an emotional support animal

• Official letterhead and LMHP license details

Step 4: Submit the Letter to Your Landlord

Share the valid ESA letter with your landlord or housing authority to protect your rights under Colorado ESA laws and the Fair Housing Act.

Common Myths About ESA Letter Renewal in Colorado

• "I don’t need to renew my ESA letter."
  
  

• False. Most landlords require a new ESA letter every year.

• "Once I have an ESA letter, it’s valid for life."
  
  

• Incorrect. Colorado ESA laws and federal law typically require recent documentation.

• "My landlord can deny my ESA if my letter is over a year old."
  
  

• True. A current ESA letter prevents disputes and ensures your rights as an ESA owner.

Colorado ESA Laws and Renewal Requirements

Overview of Colorado ESA Laws Protecting Renters

Under Colorado ESA laws, emotional support animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act. This means landlords cannot deny housing based on your emotional support animal.

Does Colorado Legally Require Annual ESA Letter Renewal?

While not explicitly required by Colorado ESA laws, keeping a recent ESA letter in Colorado helps maintain legal protections.

Rights of ESA Owners When Renewing Their Letter

As an ESA owner, you have the right to live with your emotional support animal without additional fees if you provide a valid ESA letter.

What to Look for in a Legitimate ESA Letter Renewal Provider

1. Avoid Scams and Fake ESA Letters
   
   

• Ensure your ESA letter comes from a licensed provider and meets Colorado ESA laws.

2. Key Elements of a Valid ESA Letter
   
   

• Written by a licensed mental health professional

• States your need for an emotional support animal

3. Questions to Ask Before Choosing an ESA Provider
   
   

• Is the provider licensed in the state of Colorado?

• Do they offer renewal support if my landlord requests it?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a new ESA letter every year in Colorado?
Yes. Most landlords require a current ESA letter annually to comply with Colorado ESA laws.

Can I use my old ESA letter for a new housing situation?
It depends. Some landlords accept older letters, but others require a new legitimate ESA letter.

How much does an ESA letter renewal cost in Colorado?
Fees vary but typically range from $100-$200 for a valid ESA letter.

What happens if my ESA letter expires?
Without a current ESA letter, landlords may deny your emotional support animal accommodation request.

Conclusion

Renewing your ESA letter in Colorado is crucial for protecting your housing rights. Ensure you work with a licensed mental health professional and keep your documentation current. By renewing your emotional support animal letter annually, you avoid legal issues and maintain the ability to live with your emotional support animal comfortably.

Stay informed about Colorado ESA laws and prioritize timely ESA letter renewals to safeguard your rights as an ESA owner.