Louisiana Veteran Benefits

Louisiana offers a wide range of benefits for veterans and their families—from full tuition waivers and state tax exemptions to hunting privileges and state cemetery access. These are administered through the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA), with offices and outreach across all parishes.

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🎓 Education & Tuition Assistance
• Louisiana Title 29 Tuition Exemption:
Waives tuition at any Louisiana public college or university for children and surviving spouses of veterans who are 90%+ SC disabled, MIA, KIA, or former POWs.
🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/title-29-dependents-education | ☎ (225) 219-5000
• In-State Tuition for Veterans & Families:
Veterans, active-duty, Guard, and dependents qualify for in-state tuition regardless of domicile.
🔗 https://www.regents.la.gov | ☎ (225) 342-4253
• High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans:
Veterans of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam who left school for military service may receive honorary diplomas. 🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov | ☎ (225) 219-5000
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💰 Property Tax & Financial Relief
• Homestead Exemption for Disabled Veterans:
100% SC disabled veterans may be eligible for double the standard homestead exemption (up to $150,000 assessed value) on their primary residence.
🔗 https://revenue.louisiana.gov | ☎ (855) 307-3893
• Military Retirement Pay Tax Exemption:
Louisiana does not tax military retirement income, including SBP for survivors.
🔗 https://revenue.louisiana.gov | ☎ (855) 307-3893
• State Tax Exemption on Active Duty Pay:
Active duty pay received while out of state is fully exempt from Louisiana state income tax.
🔗 https://revenue.louisiana.gov | ☎ (855) 307-3893
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🧰 Employment, Training & Licensure
• Veterans' Preference in Hiring:
5-point state employment preference for veterans; 10-point for SC disabled veterans and Gold Star family members. 🔗 https://www.civilservice.louisiana.gov | ☎ (225) 342-8274
• Military Skills Recognition for Licensing:
Military training may be applied toward licensing requirements in various civilian careers (healthcare, skilled trades, etc.). 🔗 https://www.lctcs.edu | ☎ (225) 922-2800
• LDVA Employment Assistance:
Parish service officers and veterans’ job specialists help with resume writing, interview prep, and state/federal hiring. 🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov | ☎ (225) 219-5000
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🌲 Outdoor & Vehicle Benefits
• Hunting & Fishing License Discounts:
Residents who are 50%+ SC disabled pay $4 for a combined license. VA proof required.
🔗 https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov | ☎ (225) 765-2800
• Free Hunting & Fishing for 100% DAVs:
Veterans with 100% SC rating may receive licenses at no cost.
🔗 https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov | ☎ (225) 765-2800
• State Park Passes for DAVs:
Disabled veterans are eligible for reduced or waived park entry and overnight camping fees.
🔗 https://www.lastateparks.com | ☎ (888) 677-1400
• Military License Plates:
Includes Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Silver Star, and Support Our Troops designs.
🔗 https://www.expresslane.org | ☎ (225) 925-6146
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🏠 Veterans Homes, Cemeteries & Local Help
• Five Louisiana Veterans Homes:
Located in Jackson, Monroe, Bossier City, Reserve, and Jennings. Offer skilled nursing, memory care, and rehab. 🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/homes | ☎ (225) 219-5000
• Louisiana State Veterans Cemeteries:
Located in Keithville, Leesville, Slidell, Rayville, and Jennings. Free interment for veterans; $745 for spouses. 🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/cemeteries | ☎ (225) 219-5000
• Parish Service Officers (PSOs):
Available in every parish to assist with VA claims, appeals, education, and financial support.
🔗 https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations | ☎ (225) 219-5000
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🧠 Louisiana Veteran Factoid
Louisiana was among the first states to offer Title 29 tuition waivers for surviving dependents and disabled veterans, covering 100% tuition and fees across all public colleges and universities.
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⚠️ Disclaimer
This is NOT an official handout from DoD, VA, DOL, or FFSC. It was created by Dr. Tony Astro as part of his capstone counseling and veteran education outreach.
🔗 For corrections and updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tonyastro