Advance Directive Form

Louisiana’s Advance Directive form specifies an individual’s living and last will and authorizes their healthcare proxy. The form must be signed by the individual, proxy, and two witnesses not related to the individual.

How to Order a Death Certificate

In Louisiana, only the deceased’s immediate family members and legal representatives can request a death certificate after presenting documented proof of relation.

The following information is required for an application:

• Deceased’s name, date and place of birth, and sex
• Date and place of death
• Names of deceased’s parents and mother’s maiden name
• Applicant’s name and address
• Applicants’ relation to the deceased
• Copy of applicant’s government-issued photo ID

The certificate and one certified copy cost $9, plus $0.50 for mail orders. Every additional copy costs $9. Cash is only accepted when the request is made in person.

The application can be made in person or sent to:

Vital Records Registry

Center for Records and Statistics

P.O. Box 60630

New Orleans, LA 70160

Digital Estate Planning Law

Louisiana currently has no legislation regarding digital asset access by third parties.

Death With Dignity or Aid-in-Dying or Physician-Assisted Death

Louisiana currently has no legislation regarding death with dignity. Updates on this matter can be found here.

Organ Donation Registry

Louisiana’s organ donation registry can be accessed here.

Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (POST)

Louisiana’s POST form must be completed only after a conversation with a patient or their representative. It’s necessary for patients who are at risk of a life-threatening clinical event due to a life-limiting medical condition.

Probate Laws

Information on Louisiana’s legislation on a decedent’s will regarding their estate and other assets can be found in the following acts:

• CC 1575: Oleographic testament
• CCP 2883: Oleographic testament
• CCP 2851: Petition for probate
• CCP 2852: Documents submitted with petition for probate

Estate and Inheritance Tax

Louisiana has an estate transfer tax. More information can be found on the Louisiana Department of Revenue official site.