4 Things To Understand About Veterans Benefits in Louisiana

June 11, 2026

Federal benefits are available to just over 18 million U.S. veterans, according to the United States Census Bureau. However, what about state benefits?

Silhouetted audience and saluting figure before a large American flag backdrop

Each U.S. state offers additional benefits for veterans and their families, including education and training programs as well as military pay tax exemptions. Louisiana is no different.

The 283,000 veterans living in the state of Louisiana can enjoy numerous benefits and exemptions, with the Louisiana Department of Veteran Affairs serving veterans across 74 parishes.

Keep reading to learn four things about veteran benefits in Louisiana.

1. Military and Combat Pay Exemptions

In Louisiana, veterans’ combat pay (such as hazardous duty pay) are not only exempt from federal taxation but also any Louisiana state taxation. Additionally, military retirement benefits are exempt from state taxation as well.

2. Homestead Exemptions

Qualifying Louisiana veterans may also receive homestead tax benefits, helping to protect their homes’ value. For example, qualifying veterans may receive a homestead tax exemption applying to the first $7,500 in the home’s assessed value.

Additionally, Louisiana disabled veterans or the families of those service members killed in action may receive special property tax exemptions. These eligible veterans or beneficiaries may receive an additional $7,500 exemption in addition to the homestead exemption.

To find out if you qualify for these exemptions, you can contact your local parish’s veterans service office or a qualified Louisiana veterans benefits attorney.

3. Education and Training Program Assistance

Louisiana veterans may also take advantage of state-offered education assistance programs for:

Spouses of deceased veterans
Children of veterans with a 90% or more service-connected disability rating
Children of veterans with a 100% or more service-connected disability rating because of unemployability

Eligible spouses and children may be exempt from paying tuition for any of the following:

Universities
State colleges
Trade or vocational schools

Note that under this program, the eligible spouse or child must pay any student-fees. These fees aren’t exempt under Louisiana’s program. Additionally, this exemption is available for any four-year program (which must be completed within five years).

4. Financial Hardship Assistance

Financial hardship assistance is another Louisiana veteran benefit provided under the Military Family Assistance Fund (MFA). Veterans and active-duty members experiencing financial hardship may qualify for up to $10,000 annually per veteran or active-duty member.

Louisiana veterans or active-duty members may use this financial assistance for the following expenses:

Household expenses such as rent, mortgage, or repairs on a primary residence
Vehicle expenses such as car payments, insurance, and certain major vehicle repairs
Utility expenses such as electricity, gas, or sewage
Some medical expenses

Here are some expenses that are not eligible:

Credit card bills
Income property expenses
Home improvements
Legal expenses
Cable or internet expenses
Cosmetic procedures

Why Retain Losavio & DeJean, LLC?

Not all attorneys have experience handling veterans’ benefits and claims, so it is important to retain an attorney who understands this specialized field of law. At your initial office consultation with Losavio & DeJean, LLC, you will be interviewed by one of our attorneys to fully understand your needs.

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What Is a Special Needs Trust and Why Does Your Loved One Need One?

July 30, 2026

Planning for a loved one with a disability requires more than simply leaving an inheritance. While parents and family members naturally want to provide financial security, leaving assets directly to an individual receiving needs-based government benefits can unintentionally jeopardize programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. A properly drafted Special Needs Trust allows families to provide financial support while helping preserve eligibility for essential public benefits. A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a legal tool specifically designed to hold and manage assets for the benefit of a person with disabilities. Rather than distributing money directly to the beneficiary, the trust owns the assets and appoints a trustee to manage distributions for approved supplemental expenses. These expenses may include therapies, education, travel, recreational activities, specialized medical equipment, transportation, and quality-of-life improvements that government benefits often do not cover. Every family's situation is unique, and Louisiana laws, along with federal benefit regulations, make proper planning essential. A trust that is not drafted correctly could unintentionally disqualify a beneficiary from receiving critical assistance. Working with an experienced elder law and estate planning attorney ensures that your trust complies with applicable legal requirements while reflecting your family's long-term goals. At Losavio & Dejean , we help Louisiana families create customized Special Needs Trusts as part of a comprehensive estate planning strategy. Our team understands how to coordinate trusts with wills , powers of attorney , Medicaid planning, and long-term financial planning so your loved one's future remains protected for years to come.

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Understanding the Difference Between a Will and a Trust in Louisiana

July 28, 2026

When it comes to protecting your family and preserving your legacy, one of the most common questions people ask is, "Do I need a will or a trust?" The answer depends on your personal circumstances, financial goals, and long-term estate planning objectives. Understanding the difference between these two powerful legal tools can help you make informed decisions and ensure your wishes are carried out exactly as intended. A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death. It also allows you to appoint an executor to manage your estate and, most importantly for parents of young children, designate a legal guardian. While a will is an essential component of nearly every estate plan, it generally goes through Louisiana's succession (probate) process before assets are distributed. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney ensures your will complies with Louisiana law and accurately reflects your intentions. A trust , on the other hand, can provide greater flexibility and control over how and when your assets are distributed. Certain trusts may help your loved ones avoid probate, maintain privacy, provide for beneficiaries over time, or protect assets in the event of incapacity. Trusts are often valuable tools for families with significant assets, blended families, individuals planning for long-term care , or anyone seeking greater control over their estate. At Losavio & DeJean Elder Law Firm , we help Louisiana families determine whether a will, a trust, or a combination of both best fits their unique needs. Estate planning isn't about how much you own—it's about protecting the people you love. Whether you're creating your first estate plan or updating existing documents, our experienced attorneys can help you build a plan that provides peace of mind for generations to come.