What to Do When Someone Dies in Louisiana
When a loved one passes away in Louisiana, there are important legal and financial steps to take. As a community property state with a civil law system, Louisiana has unique rules - probate is called 'succession' here.
Small Estate Threshold
$125,000
Probate Timeline
3-9 months
Death Certificate
$15 per copy
Order From
Louisiana Vital Records Registry
State Estate Tax
NoInheritance Tax
NoProperty Type
Community PropertyUnique to Louisiana
Civil law system - probate is called 'succession' and forced heirship rules may apply
Get the death certificate in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the funeral home files the death certificate with the Louisiana Vital Records Registry. Certified copies cost $15 each. Request 10-15 certified copies.
Understand Louisiana succession
Louisiana calls probate 'succession.' The process typically takes 3-9 months. Small successions under $125,000 may qualify for simplified procedures. Louisiana's civil law system includes forced heirship rules that may restrict how property can be distributed.
Handle financial accounts
Gather information about bank accounts, investment accounts, and retirement funds. Contact each financial institution with a certified death certificate. As a community property state, the surviving spouse's half doesn't go through succession.
Frequently asked questions about Louisiana estates
Neighboring state guides
Estate laws vary by state. If the deceased owned property in multiple states, you may need to file in each state.
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