State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Office of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Louisiana
Louisiana Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Louisiana Military and Veteran Benefits: Louisiana offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, state park passes, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Parish Veterans Service Offices: The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) has Parish Veterans Service Offices who can assist Veterans, and their families find and apply for benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
LDVA, Parish Veterans Service Offices Directory
Learn more about Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Parish Veterans Service Offices
Louisiana State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran State Tax Benefits?
Louisiana State Taxes on Military Retired Pay:Military retired pay is excluded from Louisiana state income tax. Louisiana Revised Statutes 47:44.2
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes
Learn more about Louisiana State Taxes on Military Retired Pay
Louisiana State Taxes on Military Pay:Louisiana resident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who were stationed out-of-state for 120 or more consecutive days are eligible for a state tax exemption of up to $50,000 of their military income.
Learn more about Louisiana State Taxes on Military Pay
Combat Pay Exempt from Louisiana Taxes:Military pay that is exempt from federal taxes, such as combat pay, and hazardous duty pay is also exempt from Louisiana state taxes.
Learn more about Combat Pay Exempt from Louisiana Taxes
Louisiana Income Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their families
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program.
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Louisiana State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-freemonetary 
benefit paid to eligible survivors of U.S. Armed Forces service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Louisiana State Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are exempt from Louisiana state taxes.
Louisiana Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses: In addition to the standard homestead exemption authorized under Article VII, Section 20 of the Louisiana Constitution, which applies to the first $7,500 of the assessed value of a homestead, disabled Veterans and surviving spouses may be eligible for an additional exemption. Local municipality taxes my still apply.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: The amount of the disabled Veterans property tax exemption is based on the Veterans disability percentage:
- Service-connected disability rating of 100%, individual unemployability, or totally disabled is exempt from all property taxes
- Service-connected disability rating of 70-99% is eligible for an additional exemption of $4,500 of the assessed value
- Service-connected disability rating of 50-69% is eligible for an additional exemption of $2,500 of the assessed value
The surviving spouse of an eligible deceased disabled Veteran is also eligible for this exemption if they remain the owner and live on the property.
Surviving Spouse Exemption: The unremarried surviving spouse of a service member who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or the Louisiana National Guard is eligible for an exemption from all ad valorem taxes. If a surviving spouse moves to a new property, they can still receive the exemption but only up to amount of the exemption on the first property.
Those eligible for an exemption should contact their local Parish Tax Assessor for more information.
Louisiana Parish Tax Assessor Directory
Learn more Louisiana Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses
Louisiana Special Assessment Level for Service Members, Disabled Veterans, Spouses and Surviving Spouses: The Louisiana Special Assessment Level allows someone who meets eligibility requirements to have the assessed value of their property frozen. This does not freeze the amount of their tax bill but only the assessed value of the property will be frozen. The amount of taxes due could change because of an increase in the tax rate or if the size of the living area is increased. The occupying owner or owners must have a total combined adjusted gross income that is less than the amount determined by each Parish Tax Assessor.
Who is eligible for Louisiana Special Assessment Level for Service Members, Disabled Veterans, Spouses and Surviving Spouses? To qualify for a special assessment level applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Service member or Veteran who has a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more from the VA, or their surviving spouse who is 45 years old or older, or has minor children
- Spouse of a service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who is declared missing in action or a prisoner of war for more than 90 days
- Surviving spouse of a service member who was killed in action
For more information or to apply applicants should contact their local Parish Tax Assessor.
Louisiana Parish Tax Assessor Directory
Louisiana Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits: Social Security benefits that are subject to federal taxes are exempt from Louisiana state taxes.
Learn more about the Louisiana Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Education Benefits?
Louisiana Educational Benefits for Children, Spouses and Surviving Spouses of Veterans:Louisiana will provide educational financialassistance for the children and surviving spouses of certain resident Veterans.
Those eligible may attend a state supported college, university, trade, or vocational technical school and are exempt from paying tuition, matriculation, registration, laboratory, athletic, medical, and other school-imposed fees. Students are eligible for four years and must be completed within five years.
Who is eligible for Louisiana Educational Benefits for Children, Spouses and Surviving Spouses of Veterans? The Veteran must meet one of the following prerequisites for their dependents to be eligible:
- Died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Died from a service-connected disability incurred during a wartime period, or
- Was declared missing in action or a prisoner of war, or
- Has a service-connected disability rating of at least 90% or declared to be unemployable as a result of a service-connected disability (only children are eligible)
In addition to meeting the prerequisites listed above deceased Veterans must have been a resident of Louisiana for at least 12 months immediately prior to entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, or a living Veteran must have been a resident for at least 24 months immediately prior to their child's admission into an educational program.
The surviving spouse must use this benefit within 10 years of their date eligibility. A child must be between the ages of 16 and 25. Students must be attending full time to be eligible.
To apply, students should contact their local Parish Veterans Service Officer.
Louisiana Revised Statutes 29.288
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, Parish Service Office Directory
Louisiana State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): STEP provides an exemption from all tuition charges at a Louisiana state supported educational institution for eligible Louisiana National Guard service members. This exemption may be used for five separate academic years or until the service member receives an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, or professional level, whichever occurs first. Louisiana Revised Statutes 29:36.1
Who is eligible for STEP? To be eligible for STEP, National Guard service members must meet the following requirements:
- Drilling member of the Louisiana National Guard, 17 years of age or older
- Resident of Louisiana
- In good standing with the Louisiana National Guard
- Studying for an associate, bachelor’s, or master's degree
- Maintains good academic standing with school
- Can receive an extension if mobilized
- Pay all fees not covered by the exemption
For more information, please contact the Louisiana National Guard Education Services office at 504-278-8273, or 504224-0076.
Learn more about Louisiana State Tuition Exemption Program
Louisiana Patriot Scholarship: The Louisiana Patriot Scholarship pays all mandatory fees while a Louisiana National Guard Service member works toward an undergraduate degree at a Louisiana public institution of higher learning. Scholarships can be used for four academic years (12 semesters or 16 quarters).
Who is eligible for the Louisiana Patriot Scholarship? Louisiana National Guard Service members must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the Patriot Scholarship:
- Drilling member of the Louisiana National Guard, 17 years of age or older
- Resident of Louisiana
- In good standing with the Louisiana National Guard
- Studying for a bachelor’s degree
- Maintains good academic standing with school
- Can receive an extension if mobilized
- Must not have used the Patriot Scholarship for more than 12 semesters or 16 quarters
For more information, please contact the Louisiana National Guard Education Services office at 504-278-8273, or 504-224-0076.
Louisiana Public Institutions of Higher Learning Directory
Learn more about the Louisiana Patriot Scholarship
Louisiana Residency for Tuition Purposes for Service Members, Dependents and Veterans: Nonresident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are stationed in Louisiana and their dependents are authorized residency for tuition purposes at Louisiana public colleges and universities.
The child or spouse of a nonresident service member who has been reassigned out of Louisiana will keep their residency for tuition purposes if they stay in Louisiana to continue their education.
In addition, Veterans using VA educational benefits or students using transferred VA educational benefits who remains continuously enrolled and live in Louisiana also qualify for residency for tuition purposes.
Louisiana Public Institutions of Higher Learning Directory
Louisiana Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): Thepurpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:
- Facilitating the prompt enrollment of children of military families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
- Facilitating the student placement process through which children of military families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs, and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic, and social activities
- Facilitating the on-time graduation of children of military families
- Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
- Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools, and military families under this compact
- Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military children
- Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents, and the student to achieve educational success for the student
Point of Contact
Phone: 225-342-3427
Learn more about the Louisiana Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Louisiana Purple Star School Award Program for Military-Friendly Schools: The Louisiana Purple Star School Award program recognizesschools that show
a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military families can benefit from. Each school will have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military families and a student-led transition program to provide peer support for military-connected students.
Military Child Education Coalition, Purple Star School Program
Learn more about the Louisiana Purple Star School Award Program for Military-Friendly Schools
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Employment Benefits?
Paid Leave for Louisiana Public Employees for Military Duty: Public employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 15 days paid leave per calendar year when ordered to duty or training. When they return from duty, they must be restored to their state employment without loss of pay, time, annual leave, or efficiency rating.
Who is eligible for Paid Leave for Louisiana Public Employees for Military Duty? National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are Louisiana state public employees are eligible.
Learn more about Paid Leave for Louisiana Public Employees for Military Duty
Louisiana Veterans' Employment and Training Services: The Louisiana Workforce Commission, Veterans' Employment and Training Services provide job assistance, training referrals and placement services for Veterans and eligible spouses. Additionally, those eligible will receive priority of service for all Louisiana Workforce Commission job training programs. Priority of service means that Veterans and eligible spouses are entitled to preference over others for a service, either earlier in time or, if the resource is limited, they receive access instead of those not eligible.
Priority of Service Eligibility:
V eteran Eligibility:
- Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training) for 180 day or more and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Was released after less than 180 days of service due to a service-connected disability and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Reserve component service members who are ordered to active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces during a period of war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge is authorized and received a discharge other than dishonorable
Spouse Eligibility: The spouse or unremarried surviving spouse of the following are eligible:
- Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
- Service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who is listed for 90 or more days as:
- Missing in action
- Captured in the line of duty by a hostile force
- Forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power
- Veteran who has a total service-connected disability rating from the VA
- Veteran who died while a disability (as above) was in existence
Veterans or service members who have significant barriers to employment are eligible for Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialist assistance:
- Has a service-connected disability and is entitled to compensation
- Homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
- Recently separated and unemployed
- Did not receive a high school diploma or equivalent
- Offender released in last 12 months
- Low income
For more information, please contact the nearest Louisiana Workforce Commission, Veterans’ staff.
Louisiana Workforce Commission, Veterans’ Program Staff Directory
Learn more about Louisiana Veterans' Employment and Training Services
Louisiana Veteran Initiative: The Louisiana Veteran Initiative is acertification program that is designed to help eligible Louisiana Veteran-owned and service-connected disabled Veteran-owned small businesses gain greater access to purchasing and contracting opportunities at the state government level. The Louisiana Veterans Initiative provides:
- Business and contact information to state purchasing officials and prime contractors who are looking for subcontractors
- State agencies are encouraged to get quotes from and use qualified, certified companies whenever possible
- For small purchases (less than $30,000), state agencies can waive the required additional quotes if a certified company submits a quote that is reasonable
- 12% of the total evaluation points can be added to a bid on a Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Prime contractors who use a Veteran owned business as a subcontractor on a bid for an RFP are also eligible to receive additional percentage points on their bid
Who is eligible for the Louisiana Veteran Initiative? The program is open to all Louisiana businesses that meet the following eligibility requirements for a Small Entrepreneurship (SE) under the Veteran Initiative:
- 51% or more of the business must be owned by a Veteran
- Principal place of business is in Louisiana
- Company must have less than 50 full-time employees
- Average annual gross receipts must not exceed $6 million for non-construction and $10 million for construction companies
- Business must be independently owned and operated
- Business must not be dominant in its professional field
- Owned by a Louisiana resident
- Owned by and have officers who are U.S. citizens or legal residents
Service-Connected Disabled Veteran: This is an additional distinction available within the Veteran Initiative for service-connected disabled-Veteran-owned businesses. To qualify, the business must meet all the requirements above, as well as at least 51% of the business must be owned by a service-connected disabled Veteran.
To start the process for certification please complete the Louisiana SMALLBIZ System, online application.
For more information, please contact the Director of Small Business Services at 225-342-5534, or 225-342-5663.
Learn more the about Louisiana Veteran Initiative
Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative: The Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative was created to recognize and promote businesses that are at least 51% owned by Veterans, active or reserve component service members or surviving spouses.
Certified companies are added to the Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative searchable database for customers who wish to patronize Louisiana Veterans First Businesses.
Companies must have its principal place of business in Louisiana and be owned by Louisiana residents who are U.S. citizens or legal residents.
Who is eligible to participate in the Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative? The following individuals are eligible to participate:
- Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces - must provide a certified copy of DD214, NGB22, or DD256
- Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Guard, or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserve - must show valid military ID
- Surviving spouse who is eligible for a Gold Star Lapel Button - must show a letter from the VA confirming they are receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Those interested can register online at the Louisiana Veterans First Registration webpage. For more information, please email louisianaveteransfirst@la.gov, or call 800-450-8115, or 225-342-3000.
Learn more about Louisiana Veterans First Business Initiative
Louisiana Military Service Relief Act: The Louisiana Military Service Relief Act provides protections to service members and their families. Some of the benefits provided are:
- Pay compensation
- Leave status
- Retirement credit
- Life, health, and accident insurance coverage
- Reemployment rights after release from military service
- Prohibits academic penalties
- Deferral of state income taxes
- Validation of professional and occupational licenses
- Suspension or termination of cellular phone and wireless service plan contracts for service members called to active duty
Who is eligible for the Louisiana Military Service Relief Act? Louisiana Residents called to military service in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for benefits and protections provided by the Louisiana Military Service Relief Act.
For a complete list of benefits provided by the Louisiana Military Service Act please refer to the Louisiana Revised Statues Title 29, sections 401 through 425 at the “Learn more…” link below.
Learn more about the Louisiana Military Service Relief Act
Louisiana Civil Service Veterans’ Hiring Preference: Louisiana offers a Veterans’ Hiring Preference for state employment to Veterans, their spouse, surviving spouse, and surviving parents. Those eligible can receive five or ten points added to the final passing scores on civil service examinations. These additional points are added only in new hiring situations and do not apply for promotions. Louisiana Civil Service System, Article X, Section 10. (A)(2)
Who is eligible for Louisiana Civil Service Veterans’ Hiring Preference?
Five preference pointsare awarded to Veterans who were honorably discharged or discharged under honorable conditions who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the following periods:
- June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955 (Korean Conflict)
- July 1, 1958, through August 4, 1964 (Vietnam Theater)
- August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975 (Vietnam Era)
- August 2, 1990, through an indeterminate date (must have received the Southwest Asia Service Medal)
- When a campaign medal was awarded (must be plainly stated on DD214)
- At least 90 days of active duty service (other than for training) after September 11, 2001
Ten preference points are awarded to an honorably discharged Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or one of their following family members:
- Spouse of a Veteran whose disability prevents them from working
- Unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased Veteran who served during any of the time periods listed above
- Unremarried surviving parent of a service member who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a Veteran who has a service-connected total and permanent disability
- Divorced or separated parents of a service member who died on active duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a Veteran who has a service-connected total and permanent disability
Required documentation for a Veteran:
- DD214
- VA Benefit Summary Letter documenting a service-connected disability, dated within the last six months if claiming 10 point preference
For applicants other than an eligible Veteran:
- Louisiana Claim Form for Veterans Preference for Spouse/Parent
- Death certificate, if applicable
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
Learn more about Louisiana Civil Service Veterans’ Hiring Preferences
Louisiana Testing Exemptions in Civil Employment for Veterans: A state employment hiringauthority may hire a Veteran for a probational appointment or job appointment without requiring a civil service examination, for Veterans who meet the minimum qualifications of the job. 
Who is eligible for Louisiana Testing Exemptions in Civil Employment for Veterans? The Veteran must have been honorably discharged within the last 12 months and served at least 90 days on active duty (other than for training) in the U.S. Armed Forces. The state employer may make an offer to a currently serving service member, but the effective date of hiring cannot be until after their discharge date.
For more information, please call the Louisiana Testing and Recruiting Center at 225-925-1911.
Learn more about Louisiana Testing Exemptions in Civil Employment for Veterans
Reinstatement to Louisiana State Employment after Military Service: State employees who leave their position to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces are entitled to be reemployed to their same position, or a position of similar seniority, status and pay after they are discharged from military service. The Veteran must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible.
Learn more about Reinstatement to Louisiana State Employment after Military Service
Louisiana Professional Licensing Military and Veteran Benefits: Louisiana professional licensing boards are authorized by Louisiana law to provide the following benefits for service members, Veterans, and military spouses:
- Accept military education and experience towards meeting licensing requirements
- Military-trained applicants are authorized Louisiana professional licenses if they have a current license issued by another state (or jurisdiction) whose regulations meet or exceed Louisiana licensing requirements
- May issue professional licenses to military spouses who have a current license issued by another state (or jurisdiction) whose regulations meet or exceed Louisiana licensing requirements
- Issue temporary licenses and offer accelerated processing while a full license application is being processed
For more information, applicants should contact the Louisiana licensing board that regulates their profession.
Louisiana Professional License Governing Authorities Directory
Learn more about Louisiana Professional Licensing Military and Veteran Benefits
Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.
5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:
- During a war, or
- During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
- During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
- In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized including an Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference
10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: 10 points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
- A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
- A Veteran who received a Purple Heart
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of spouses, surviving spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a spouse (including surviving spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.
Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:
- Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
- Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability
Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.
A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.
Learn more about Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.
Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that anindividual may be absent from work for militaryduty
and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits?Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Louisiana Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI is a program designed to provide temporaryfinancial assistance to workers who are unemployedthrough
no fault of their own and who meet the requirements of the Louisiana Employment Security Law. Unemployment insurance benefits are paid as a matter of past employment and legal entitlement, and not based on need.
To be eligible for unemployment, applicants must be unemployed through no fault of their own or had their hours reduced. Applicants should file a claim for UI as soon as possible after becoming unemployed or their hours were reduced.
To file a claim, applicants are required to provide the following information:
- Copy of valid government ID
- Social Security number
- Name, address, job-site locations, and telephone number of employers for the last 18 months (as it appears on pay statements)
- Name and local number of union hall, if applicable
- Alien Registration number if not a U.S. citizen
- Member 4 copy of DD214 for military service in the previous 18 months
- SF8 and SF50 for federal government employees in the previous 18 months
Filing Initial UI Claim:
To apply for UI applicants can login to the Louisiana Workforce Commission Registration Page or they can call the UI Help Desk at 866-783-5567.
Louisiana Workforce Commission, UI Frequently Asked Questions
Louisiana Workforce Commission, Unemployment Benefits Rights and Responsibilities (Benefit Rights Information)
Louisiana UI Help Desk Information
Learn more about Louisiana Unemployment Insurance
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Office of Motor Vehicles Benefits?
Louisiana Driver’s License or ID Card, Veteran and Disabled Veteran Designation: The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles offers a designation on Louisiana driver’s licenses or ID cards for eligible Veterans to indicate they served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or that they are a disabled Veteran. 
Who is eligible for a Louisiana Driver’s License or ID Card, Veteran and Disabled Veteran Designation?
Veteran Designation:Veterans who received an honorable discharge are eligible for the Veteran Designation. No fee is charged when requesting a designation. Fees will apply if the Veteran requests to add the designation during their renewal period or when requesting a duplicate. Veterans are required to provide a copy of official documentation as proof they received an honorable discharge.
Free Licenses and Disabled Veteran Designation: Honorably discharged disabled Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater from the VA of are eligible for free ID cards and driver’s licenses. Veterans who have a service-connected 100% disability rating from the VA are eligible for a Disabled American Veteran designation. Disabled Veterans must provide official documentation from the VA or their branch of service that they have a service-connected disability rating.
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, Policy 2.01 Disabled Veterans, Free Driver’s License/ID Card
Please refer to Louisiana Office of Motor, Vehicles Policy 2.02 Veteran Indicator for a list of acceptable documentation. Veterans can apply at their local Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.
Louisiana Revised Statutes 32:412
Learn more about the Louisiana Driver’s License or ID Card, Veteran and Disabled Veteran Designation
Louisiana Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates: The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles offers 50 distinctive license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of service members, Veterans, retired service members and eligible family members. These plates may be issued for use on privately-owned passenger cars, pickup trucks, motorcycles, or vans. All plates have specific documentation requirements to prove eligibility.
The cost of these plates is the same as regular issue license plates and may be requested through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, License Plate Online ordering page or at a Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles location. For more information or questions, please call the Specialized Vehicle Unit at 225-925-6371, or 225-925-6146.
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, Special Plate Viewer
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, Field Offices that Stock Military and Veterans License Plates Directory
Louisiana Medal of Honor License Plate: Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for the Louisiana 
Medal of Honor license plate. Those eligible can order a Medal of Honor license plate for each vehicle registered in their name. There are no fees for this license plate, and they are not subject to renewal requirements. Unremarried surviving spouses can keep this license plate if they transfer it to their name. Louisiana Revised Statutes 47:490.5
Louisiana Purple Heart License Plate: Purple Heart recipients are eligible for the Louisiana Purple 
Heart license plate. Those eligible can order the Purple Heart license plates for each vehicle registered in their name. There are no fees for this license plate, and they are not subject to renewal requirements. Unremarried surviving spouses can keep this license plate if they transfer it to their name. Louisiana Revised Statutes 47:490.18
Louisiana Disabled Veterans License Plate: Disabled resident Veterans who have a service- 
connected disability rating of 50% or more from the VA are eligible for a free Disabled Veteran license plate. There are no fees for this license plate, and they are not subject to renewal requirements. Veterans who are issued this license plate are eligible for the same privileges afforded those with license plates for persons with mobility impairments. Veterans may also request a free hang tag that may be used for any vehicle they are riding in.
Louisiana Revised Statutes 47:490.4
Louisiana Gold Star Family License Plate: The Louisiana Gold Star Family license plate is available 
to the immediate family members of a U.S. Armed Forces service member killed in action. Normal charges apply for this license plate.
Who is eligible for the Louisiana Gold Star Family License Plate: This plate may be issued to an immediate family member of a service member who was serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and was killed under any of the following conditions:
- During World War I, World War II, or any following period of armed conflict before July 1, 1958
- Any armed conflict after June 30, 1958
- Any time after March 28, 1973, due to:
- Armed conflict
- International terrorist attack
- While serving in a peacekeeping force
Immediate family members eligible are:
- Surviving spouse (remarried or not)
- Parents, stepparents, adoptive parents, or foster parents in loco parentis
- Grandparents
- Child, stepchild, or adopted child
- Sibling or half sibling
The applicant must provide a copy of the service member's death certificate when applying for this license plate. Louisiana Revised Statutes 47:463.137
Learn more about Louisiana Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates
Louisiana Commercial Driver License (CDL) Military Skills Test Waiver: Louisiana offers a CDL skills test waiver to service members and former service members based on their military training and experience.
Applicants must be currently licensed (or were licensed) within the last year on a military vehicle similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the skills testing and does not include knowledge testing requirements. The transfer of School Bus (S) and Passenger (P) endorsements under this Waiver Program are prohibited.
Louisiana Revised Statutes 32:408
Applicants must also meet the following requirements (within two years of application):
- Not had more than one license (except for a military license)
- Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled
- Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying major offenses (listed in Code of Federal Regulation, 385.51(b) )
- Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for disqualifying serious traffic violations (listed in Code of Federal Regulation, 385.51(c) )
- Have not had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault
For more information and to apply, please visit the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, CDL webpage.
Louisiana Application for Military Skills Test Waiver
Learn more about the Louisiana Commercial Driver License Military Skills Test Waiver
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Health and Insurance Benefits?
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component service members, and their families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard service members) and their families who meet the following qualifications:
- Not on active duty orders
- Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
- Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a family member
This plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Health Insurance
Louisiana National Guard Medical Coverage for Injury, Illness, Disability or Death covered under Worker’s Compensation Laws during State Active Duty: Louisiana National Guard service members serving on state active duty are eligible for compensation and benefits under Louisiana Worker’s Compensation Laws for injury, illness, disability, or death when they are serving on state active duty. Service members are compensated for expenses including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses
- Surgical expenses
- Hospital services
- Medications
- Compensation for disability or death
Louisiana Revised Statutes, Title 23, Labor and Worker's Compensation
Who is eligible for Louisiana National Guard Medical Coverage for Injury, Illness, Disability or Death covered under Worker’s Compensation Laws during State Active Duty? Louisiana National Guard service members serving on state active duty are eligible for compensation and benefits under Louisiana Worker’s Compensation Laws.
Louisiana Workforce Commission, Workers’ Compensation Frequently Asked Questions
Louisiana National Guard Service Member Disability and Death Benefits: Louisiana NationalGuard service members who die or suffer a severedisability 
while serving on federal or state active duty, on or after September 11, 2001, are eligible for compensation from the state.
Service members who become totally and permanently disabled are eligible for a $100,000 disability benefit. The beneficiaries of a service member who is killed are eligible for a $250,000 death benefit.
Who is eligible for Louisiana National Guard Service Member Injury and Death Benefits? Louisiana National Guard service members who are disabled or die while serving on state or federal active duty on or after September 11, 2001, are eligible.
For more information, please email: langclaims@la.gov.
Learn more about Louisiana National Guard Service Member Injury Disability and Death Benefits
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Louisiana Resident Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Resident Veterans whohave a permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA of 50% or more are eligible for free recreational fishing and hunting licenses. This license includes Basic and 
Saltwater Fishing Licenses, Basic, Deer, Waterfowl, and Turkey Hunting Licenses, and a Wildlife Management Area Access Permit.
To apply Veterans must mail completed applications and required documentation (listed on the application) to:
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Attention: Sports Licenses
PO Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70898
For more information, please call 225-765-2887.
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Application for Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing License
Learn more about Louisiana Resident Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Louisiana Resident Hunting and Fishing License for Nonresident Active Duty Service Members and Dependents: Nonresident active duty service members and their dependents may purchase Louisiana hunting or recreational fishing licenses at resident prices. Applicants must show a valid military ID card when they purchase their license.
Service members or dependents must have their military or dependent ID card and appropriate license(s) with them while hunting or fishing. Active duty military licenses are valid only while the service member is serving on active duty.
Purple Heart Recipients Can Purchase Louisiana Hunting and Fishing Licenses at Resident Prices: Nonresident Purple Heart recipients are eligible to purchase hunting and fishing licenses for resident prices. Applicants must submit a copy of their DD214 or any other military document that indicates the applicant received a Purple Heart.
Applicants can submit required documentation, fee and completed application in person at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Headquarters at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge or by mail to:
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Attn: Sport License
PO Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70898-9000
For more information, please call 225-765-2887.
Louisiana Application for Military License
Louisiana Resident Retired Service Member Reduced Cost Hunting and Fishing License: Louisiana resident or native-born retired service members who served in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible to purchase a combination hunting and fishing license for $20. Applicants must provide:
- Residents - Copy of valid Louisiana driver’s license or Louisiana ID card (issued a minimum of six months prior to applying) and a copy of their retired military ID card
- Nonresidents - Certified copy of their Louisiana birth certificate, a copy of their driver’s license and a copy of their retired military ID card
Applicants can submit required documentation, fee and completed application in person at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Headquarters at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge, or by mail to:
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Attn: Sport License
PO Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70898-9000
For more information, please call 225-765-2887.
Louisiana Application for Resident/Native Born Retired Military License
Learn more about Louisiana Retired Service Member Reduced Cost Hunting and Fishing License
Louisiana Resident Surviving Spouse Reduced Cost Hunting and Fishing License: A Louisiana resident surviving spouse of a service member who was killed in action, or while serving in a combat zone may be eligible for the Louisiana Resident Disabled/Special Needs License for $4. This license includes Basic and Saltwater Fishing Licenses, Basic, Deer, Waterfowl, and Turkey Hunting Licenses, and a Wildlife Management Area Access Permit.
Surviving spouses must have lived in Louisiana continuously for at least six months prior to application and are required to provide copies the following documents when they apply:
- DD1300 Report of Casualty
- Death certificate
- Valid Louisiana driver’s license or ID card
Surviving spouses can submit required documentation, fee, and a completed application in person at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Headquarters at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge, or by mail to:
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Attn: Sport License
PO Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70898-9000
For more information, please call 225-765-2887.
Louisiana Application for Disabled/Special Needs License
Learn more about Louisiana Resident Surviving Spouse Reduced Cost Hunting and Fishing License
Louisiana State Parks Benefits for Veterans and Service Members: Louisiana State Parks offers several benefits for service members,
retired service members, and disabled Veterans.
Free Entrance to Louisiana State Parks for Disabled Veterans: Disabled Veterans are eligible for a free Louisiana State Parks Permit that authorizes the Veteran and those with them (in a single private vehicle) free entry into a Louisiana State Park. Veterans can apply at their local parish Veterans Service Office.
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs Parish Service Office Directory
Reduced Admission and Discount for Service Members, Retired Service Members, and Disabled Veterans: Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed forces and one immediate family member receive a 50% discount for day use entry to a state park, historic site, or world heritage site. Service members must show their military ID card to receive the discount.
Discount for Service Members and Retired Service Members: Service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and retired service members receive 15% off all rentable facilities. Service members and retired service members must show their military ID card to receive the discount.
Learn more about Louisiana State Park Benefits for Veterans and Service Members
What are my Louisiana Military and Veteran Miscellaneous Benefits?
Louisiana Military Family Assistance Fund (MFA): MFA provides financial support to Veterans, service members and their families when they experience financial hardships. These funds can be used for things such as housing, utilities, medical services, and other essential expenses that may have incurred an undue financial hardship. MFA can pay up to $10,000 per claim in a 12-month period.
Who is eligible for MFA? To be eligible applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Louisiana resident
- Service member in good standing in the Louisiana National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves, or
- Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an Honorable, or Under Honorable Conditions discharge (DD214 and/or NGB22 is required) and meets one of the following conditions:
- Served at least 24 months of continuous active duty (other than for training)
- Served at least 90 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an Early or Hardship Discharge
Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 , 1173 - Has a service-connected disability and is eligible for compensation from the VA
- Received a discharge after less than 90 days of service in the U.S. Armed Forces due to a service-connected disability
MFA is a payer of last resort. All applicants should search for assistance from all other available sources before applying.
Applicants can apply using the MFA Application or they can use the online application located at the bottom of the page at the “Learn more…” link below. For more information, please call 877-432-8982.
Please mail completed application, with all required supporting documentation (listed on the application) to:
Louisiana Departments of Veterans Affairs
ATTN: MFA Administrator
PO Box 94095
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70804-9095
Learn more about the Louisiana Military Family Assistance Fund
Recording of Discharges for Louisiana Veterans: Louisiana Clerks of Court will record a service member’s honorable discharge documents free of charge.
Once recorded these documents are confidential and cannot be released or shown to any person except the Veteran or someone they designate.
Upon the death of the Veteran these records can be provided to the executor of their estate, surviving spouse, or a family member. Those requesting these records must provide official documentation of the Veteran’s death.
Louisiana Clerks of Court Directory
Learn more about Recording of Discharges for Louisiana Veterans
Free Copies of Louisiana Public Records for Benefit Claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: State officials must provide certified copies of records (birth certificate, marriage license, death certificate, etc.) required when applying for VA benefits free of charge.
Toll and Parking Fee Exemption for National Guard Service Members on Official Business and Disabled Veterans: Louisiana National Guard service members in uniform and under official orders are not required to pay for parking or tolls for ferries or bridges when going to, engaged in, or returning from official business.
Any private vehicle operated by a disabled Veteran is not required to pay tolls for ferries or bridges, or parking facilities owned or operated by the state. These exemptions do not apply for Crescent City Connection bridges.
Louisiana State Veterans Homes: The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) has five Veterans Homes that provide short and long term nursing care for eligible Veterans and their family members.
Louisiana Veterans Homes Locations:
Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home – 156 bed facility 
3130 Arthur Ray Teague Parkway Bossier City, LA 71112
Phone: 318-741-2763
Fax: 318-741-2783
Louisiana Veterans Home – 129 bed facility 
4739 Hwy 10 Jackson, LA 70748
Phone: 225-634-5265
Fax: 225-634-4057
Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home –156 bed facility
1610 Evangeline Road Jennings, LA 70546
Phone: 337-824-2829
Fax: 337-824-2581
Northeast Louisiana Veterans Home – 156 bed facility 
6700 Hwy 165 North Monroe, LA 71203
Phone: 318-362-4206
Fax: 318-362-4241
Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home – 156 bed facility 
4080 W. Airline Highway
Reserve, LA 70084
Phone: 985-479-4080 / 985-479-4206
Fax: 985-479-4090
Each facility offers a variety of services including:
- Long and short-term care
- Rehabilitative therapies
- Alzheimer’s and intermediate care
- Skilled nursing care
- Mental health services
- Centralized pharmacy services
Who is eligible for care at the Louisiana State Veterans Homes? To be eligible for admission at a Louisiana Veterans Home, Veterans must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for 90 days or more and received an honorable discharge for their most recent period of active duty service. If the Veteran’s active duty service was less than 90 days, the Veteran must have been discharged due to a service-connected disability. Veterans must be a resident of Louisiana, unless the Veteran is referred from an in-state VA Medical Center or by a LDVA Counselor.
In addition, the spouse, surviving spouse and Gold Star Parents of an eligible Veteran may also be admitted. For more information, please call 877-GEAUX-VA or contact the Veterans Home directly.
Louisiana Veterans Home Request for Medical Information Sheet (must be submitted with application)
Louisiana Veterans Home Eligibility Fact Sheet
LDVA, Veterans Home Application for Admission
Learn more about the Louisiana State Veterans Homes
Louisiana State Veterans Cemeteries: Louisiana has five State Veterans Cemeteries located throughout the state that offer a dignified final resting place for eligible Veterans and their family members.
Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Locations:
Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery
3348 University Parkway Leesville, LA 71446
Phone: 337-238-6405
Fax: 337-238-6448
Email: clvc@la.gov
Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery
2413 Hwy 425 Rayville, LA 71269 Phone: 318-728-4346
Fax: 318-728-5921
Email: nelavc@la.gov
Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery
7970 Mike Clarke Road Keithville, LA 71047
Phone: 318-925-0612
Fax: 318-925-5521
Email: nlvc@la.gov
Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Southeast Veterans Cemetery
34888 Grantham College Drive Slidell, LA 70460
Phone: 985-646-6458
Fax: 985-646-6481
Email: slvc@la.gov
Southeast Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery
1620 Evangeline Road Jennings, LA 70546
Phone: 337-246-7094
Fax: 337-246-7096
Email: swlvc@la.gov
Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Each Louisiana State Veterans Cemetery features an Administrative Building with a computerized grave locator, beautiful spacious grounds, and a covered shelter for committal services.
Burial benefits include:
- Grave sites for casket or cremated remains
- Headstones or markers
- Opening and closing of the graves
- Continued perpetual care
There is no charge for the burial of a Veteran. A fee is charged by the cemetery at the time of burial for eligible spouses and dependent children.
Who is eligible for Burial at a Louisiana State Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for burial at a Louisiana State Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements to be buried in a Louisiana State Veterans Cemetery:
- Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
- Died while serving on active duty, or
- Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
- Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
- Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent children is limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA), online Request to Determine Eligibility for Interment or the LDVA, Application for Pre-need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a Louisiana State Cemetery to establish eligibility prior to need. For more information, please contact the nearest LDVA office.
LDVA Office Locator
Learn more about the Louisiana State Veterans Cemeteries
Military Funeral Honors: The family members of deceased Veterans can request Military Funeral Honors which may include the presence of U.S. Armed Forces service members, folding and presentation of the flag, a firing detail, and the playing of Taps.
Military Funeral Honors are available through the different branches of service on request and based on availability. Interested family members should contact the branch of the U.S. Armed Forces the Veteran served in for more information.
ARMY
Casualty Assistance Section, Fort Johnson (Formerly Fort Polk)
Phone: 337-531-6316 / 337-531-1726
NAVY
Naval Region SE
Phone: 800-326-9631
AIR FORCE
NCOIC Barksdale AFB Honor Guard
Phone: 318-456-5246 / 318-564-8146
MARINE CORPS
Inspector Instructor Offices
Phone: 866-826-3628
COAST GUARD
New Orleans, LA
Phone: 504-253-6361 / 504-628-5270
Learn more about Military Funeral Honors
Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal: The Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal was created to honor, recognize, and thank Louisiana Veterans for their honorable military service. The Louisiana Veterans 
Honor Medal is available with a blue ribbon for Veterans who received an honorable discharge, a purple ribbon for Purple Heart recipients, a black ribbon for prisoners of war, and a yellow ribbon for those killed in action. Only one medal per Veteran is awarded.
Who is eligible for the Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Current Louisiana resident, or
- Louisiana resident when they entered the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Louisiana resident at the time of their death
- Served in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Received an honorable discharge or died prior to separation (must attach DD214 or DD1300)
For more information, please call 877-432-8982.
Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal, Online Application
Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal Application
Learn more about the Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Louisiana
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Louisiana: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Louisiana
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Louisiana: The VA National Cemetery 
Administration maintains four national cemeteries in Louisiana. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Louisiana
Military Installations in Louisiana
Please see the Louisiana Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Army
U.S. Army Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Johnson (Formerly Fort Polk)
Air Force
Barksdale AFB
Navy
Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans
National Guard
Louisiana National Guard
Louisiana Air National Guard
159 th Fighter Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
81 st Readiness Division
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Louisiana
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs
Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans' Employment and Career Transition Advisor
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
Louisiana Workforce Commission
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory