Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Louisiana

Last updated: August 2025


Quick help box (keep this handy)


Emergency first: what to do right now

Reality check:

  • During hurricanes, VA clinics may close or shift to telehealth. Check your VA facility page for alerts.
  • If you’re displaced, you can fill prescriptions at many retail pharmacies through the VA Community Care pharmacy network. Call MyVA411 (800-698-2411) to confirm.

How this guide helps

This guide brings the most important federal and Louisiana-specific benefits for senior veterans (generally age 60+) into one place, with direct links to official sources. We cover health care, money and taxes, housing, food and utilities, transportation, long-term care, legal help, and more. We also include steps, reality checks, and tips that many short summaries miss.


Who is a “Louisiana veteran” for state benefits?

Louisiana follows federal definitions for “veteran” for most programs. Some state programs may require Louisiana residency and an honorable discharge, and certain benefits are limited to disabled veterans or surviving spouses. When in doubt:

If you’ve lost your DD214, request it from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records


At-a-glance: major benefits for senior veterans in Louisiana

Table 1. Overview and where to apply

Benefit Who it helps What it does Where to start
VA health care Eligible veterans Primary/specialty care, prescriptions, mental health; geriatrics & home care options VA enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application
VA disability compensation Service-connected conditions Tax-free monthly payments; possible Special Monthly Compensation VA disability overview: https://www.va.gov/disability
VA pension + Aid & Attendance/Housebound Low-income wartime veterans age 65+ or disabled Monthly payment; A&A/Housebound add-ons for help with daily activities Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension; A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
State Veterans Homes (LDVA) Eligible veterans & spouses Skilled nursing and memory care at five Louisiana homes LDVA Veterans Homes: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
Louisiana income tax on military retirement Military retirees Louisiana exempts military retirement pay from state income tax LA Dept. of Revenue – Military: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
Property tax relief (parish-level) for 100% disabled veterans 100% service-connected disabled Additional homestead/property tax relief; varies by parish Louisiana Tax Commission info: https://www.latax.state.la.us; Check your parish assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
HUD-VASH & SSVF Homeless or at-risk veterans Housing vouchers, case management, rent help VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless
SNAP and Senior Nutrition Low-income seniors Groceries and congregate/home-delivered meals LA SNAP (DCFS): https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap; Senior meals: https://goea.la.gov (Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs)
LIHEAP (utilities) Low-income households Help with energy bills and weatherization Louisiana Housing Corporation – LIHEAP: https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
Hunting & fishing (LDWF) Eligible disabled veterans Reduced/free licenses LDWF Veterans licensing: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/licenses-and-permits
Claims help (free) All veterans Accredited help filing VA claims/appeals Find LDVA Service Offices: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations

Sources: VA, LDVA, Louisiana Department of Revenue, Louisiana Tax Commission, DCFS, LHC, LDWF, GOEA.


Health care in Louisiana: your options

Louisiana has three VA medical centers with clinics across the state:

Key points

Table 2. VA health facilities in Louisiana

Facility Region What they offer Links
Alexandria VA Health Care System Central LA Primary/specialty care, mental health, rehab, some long-term care services https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care
Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System (New Orleans) Southeast/Capital Full-service medical center; women’s health, specialty clinics, telehealth; community clinics (e.g., Baton Rouge, Slidell) https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care
Overton Brooks VA Medical Center (Shreveport) Northwest/North Full-service care; clinics in Monroe and other sites https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care
Vet Centers (readjustment counseling) Statewide coverage Counseling for combat veterans and families; confidential Find a Vet Center: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov

Tip: Use the VA Facility Locator to find Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs): https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Reality check:

  • Expect wait times for some specialty care. Ask about Community Care if delays are long or travel is far. Eligibility details: https://www.va.gov/communitycare

Long-term care, home supports, and caregivers

Options you can combine based on your needs:

  1. State Veterans Homes (LDVA)
  • What they are: Skilled nursing and memory care facilities run by Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • Where: Five homes (Jackson, Bossier City, Monroe area, Jennings, Reserve).
  • Who qualifies: Veterans (generally with honorable service) and, in some cases, spouses/widows. Clinical and financial criteria apply.
  • Learn more and apply: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
  1. VA Geriatrics and Extended Care
  1. Louisiana Medicaid long-term care and home services
  1. Caregivers
  • VA Caregiver Support Program: Coaching, respite, and possible stipends for certain veterans’ caregivers. Info: https://www.caregiver.va.gov
  • Louisiana Aging network: Call 211 or visit the Governor’s Office of Elderly Affairs to find local Area Agencies on Aging: https://goea.la.gov

Table 3. Long-term care choices

Option Good for What it covers Where to learn/apply
LDVA State Veterans Homes Veterans needing 24/7 skilled nursing or memory care Nursing care, rehab, activities; per diem support from VA https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes
VA Geriatrics & Extended Care Veterans needing extra support Home-based primary care, adult day, respite, nursing home care https://www.va.gov/geriatrics
Aid & Attendance / Housebound Veterans/spouses needing help with daily activities Adds money to VA pension to help pay for care https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
Medicaid CCW & PACE Low-income seniors at risk of nursing home placement In-home aides, adult day health, care coordination CCW: https://ldh.la.gov/page/212; PACE: https://ldh.la.gov

Reality check:

  • Waitlists are common for CCW and PACE. Apply early and keep paperwork handy.
  • Veterans Homes have admission criteria and may have waiting lists. Contact the home to ask about availability.

Money and taxes: make the most of what you earned

VA payments

Louisiana taxes

  • Military retirement pay: Louisiana exempts military retirement income from state income tax. See Louisiana Department of Revenue “Military Personnel” guidance: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
  • Property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans: Louisiana’s constitution allows parish-level additional homestead or special assessment benefits for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability (and certain surviving spouses). Rules and amounts vary by parish. Start with the Louisiana Tax Commission and your parish assessor: Louisiana Tax Commission: https://www.latax.state.la.us and Parish Assessors directory: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors

Other money helps

Table 4. Money and tax benefits at a glance

Program Who qualifies What you get Where to apply
VA disability compensation Service-connected disabilities Monthly tax-free payment https://www.va.gov/disability
VA pension + A&A/Housebound Low-income wartime vets age 65+ or disabled Monthly payment; extra if you need daily help https://www.va.gov/pension
LA military retirement tax Military retirees State income tax exemption https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel
Property tax relief (parish-level) 100% SC disabled veterans Additional homestead/special assessment https://www.latax.state.la.us; Parish assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
LDVA Military Family Assistance Fund LA veterans in hardship One-time financial help https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit/military-family-assistance-fund
SNAP Low-income households Monthly food benefit https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/snap
LIHEAP Low-income households Utility bill assistance https://www.lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance

Reality check:

  • Some programs count VA benefits as income; others don’t. Always read the “income and resources” rules on the application page and ask the agency before you apply.

Housing and homelessness help

State and local

Table 5. Housing safety net

Program What it does How to access
HUD-VASH Voucher + case management for homeless veterans https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp
SSVF Prevents homelessness; rapid rehousing; pays some housing costs https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf
GPD Transitional housing with services https://www.va.gov/homeless/gpd
LHC programs Utility aid, weatherization, affordable housing https://www.lhc.la.gov
211 Louisiana Local shelters, landlord issues, emergency help https://www.louisiana211.org

Reality check:

  • Documentation (ID, DD214, income proof) speeds things up. If you don’t have papers, call 877-424-3838; VA can still start the process.

Transportation and getting to care

Tip: Ask your clinic about same-day telehealth or phone visits when weather or health makes travel unsafe.


Education, work, and small business


Legal help and records

Tip: For VA claims and appeals, use accredited representatives only. Check accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation


Inclusive resources and groups who may need extra support

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Disabled senior veterans

Tribal and Native veterans in Louisiana

  • VA Office of Tribal Government Relations: Outreach and support for tribal veterans, including help coordinating VA and IHS care: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment
  • Indian Health Service – find care: https://www.ihs.gov/findhealthcare
  • If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe in Louisiana (e.g., Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana, Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, Jena Band of Choctaw Indians), ask your tribal office about veteran support and referral pathways. You can also contact LDVA for state benefits: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov

Rural senior veterans with limited access

Female senior veterans


Resources by region (major hubs and how to connect)

Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans/Northshore/River Parishes)

Capital Region (Baton Rouge)

Southwest Louisiana (Lake Charles/Jennings)

Acadiana (Lafayette/New Iberia)

Central Louisiana (Alexandria/Leesville/Fort Johnson area)

Northeast Louisiana (Monroe/Ruston)

Northwest Louisiana (Shreveport/Bossier)

Northshore/River Parishes

Note: Use the VA facility locator to confirm which clinic serves your parish: https://www.va.gov/find-locations


Step-by-step: common applications

How to apply for VA health care in Louisiana

  1. Gather your DD214, insurance (Medicare, TRICARE, private), and income info (if asked).
  2. Apply online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application or call 877-222-8387.
  3. After approval, call your nearest VA clinic to set your first appointment:
  4. Ask about telehealth, pharmacy delivery, and local specialty clinics.

How to apply for Aid & Attendance (A&A)

  1. Check if you receive VA pension (not disability compensation). If not, review Pension eligibility: https://www.va.gov/pension
  2. Complete VA Form 21-2680 (doctor fills in details about your daily needs). Download from https://www.va.gov/find-forms
  3. Submit with supporting medical records. Mail to the Pension Management Center listed for your state or apply online through VA’s system.
  4. Get free help from LDVA: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations

How to claim Louisiana property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans

  1. Get proof of your 100% service-connected disability rating from VA (award letter).
  2. Contact your Parish Assessor to ask about the additional homestead/special assessment for 100% disabled veterans. Directory: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors
  3. Bring ID, proof of ownership/residency, and your VA rating letter. Rules and amounts vary by parish.

Frequently Asked Questions (Louisiana-specific)

Q1: Where do I find my local LDVA Service Office?

  • Use the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) location finder with a parish map: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations

Q2: Does Louisiana tax my military retirement pay?

  • No. Louisiana exempts military retirement pay from state income tax. See the Department of Revenue’s Military Personnel page: https://revenue.louisiana.gov/Individuals/MilitaryPersonnel

Q3: I’m a 100% disabled veteran. Do I get any property tax relief?

  • Louisiana law allows parishes to grant additional homestead or special assessment benefits for 100% service-connected disabled veterans (and certain surviving spouses). Benefits and processes vary by parish. Start with your Parish Assessor: https://www.latax.state.la.us/assessors and the Louisiana Tax Commission: https://www.latax.state.la.us

Q4: What VA hospitals are in Louisiana?

  • Three facilities serve Louisiana: Alexandria VA Health Care System (https://www.va.gov/alexandria-health-care), Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System in New Orleans (https://www.va.gov/southeast-louisiana-health-care), and Overton Brooks VA Medical Center in Shreveport (https://www.va.gov/shreveport-health-care)

Q5: How can I get into a Louisiana State Veterans Home?

  • Review eligibility and contact the home directly via LDVA’s Veterans Homes page: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/benefit-category/veterans-homes. Expect clinical/financial screenings and possible waitlists.

Q6: Is there help if I’m behind on rent or at risk of eviction?

  • Call the VA Homeless Veterans line at 877-424-3838 and ask about SSVF or HUD-VASH. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless

Q7: Can I see a local (non-VA) doctor if the VA is far or the wait is long?

  • Possibly, through VA Community Care, if you meet eligibility criteria. Details: https://www.va.gov/communitycare. Ask your VA provider or Patient Advocate.

Q8: Where do I apply for SNAP or utility help?

Q9: I don’t have my DD214. Can LDVA still help me file a claim?

  • Yes. LDVA can help request your records from the National Archives and start your claim: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations. You can also request records online: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Q10: I’m a woman veteran. Is there a contact just for women’s health?

Q11: Are there reduced-cost hunting/fishing licenses for disabled veterans?

  • Yes. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries offers reduced or free licenses for eligible disabled veterans. Requirements and application: https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/licenses-and-permits

Q12: What if I need help caring for my spouse who is a veteran with dementia?

  • Ask VA about Home-Based Primary Care, adult day health care, respite, and the Caregiver Support Program: https://www.caregiver.va.gov and https://www.va.gov/geriatrics. For low-income families, review Louisiana’s Medicaid Community Choices Waiver: https://ldh.la.gov/page/212

Q13: Is there help for senior veterans in rural parishes?

  • Yes: Options include VA telehealth from home, potential Community Care referrals, and travel reimbursement if eligible. Start here: https://telehealth.va.gov and https://www.va.gov/communitycare

Q14: I think my VA decision is wrong. What can I do?

  • You can file a Higher-Level Review, a Supplemental Claim, or a Board Appeal. Overview: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews. Get free help from LDVA or an accredited VSO: https://www.vetaffairs.la.gov/locations

Key links and contacts (bookmark this)


Disclaimer

Programs change, and local rules vary by parish. Always confirm eligibility, documents, and current benefits directly with the agency or program using the official links in this guide. This article is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.


About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
  • Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
  • Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

  • Last Updated: August 2025
  • Sources Verified: August 2025
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.