Louisiana Elementary and Secondary School Tuition Deduction
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help or official support, visit the state’s program website. Program information verified using official state information.
How does this program work?
Under the Louisiana Elementary and Secondary School Tuition Deduction, parents can receive a tax deduction for their child to attend a private school, public school or homeschool. This program aims to provide financial support to families covering educational costs for their children attending their school of choice in Louisiana thereby allowing increased flexibility in meeting their child’s educational needs.
Why this matters to families in Louisiana:
This program gives parents the ability to choose alternate educational settings or services that are a better fit for their child’s learning needs. It ensures families have additional financial support for these choices.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
Tax Deduction
Tax Deduction Amount:
For 2011 to 2023: Up to $5,000 per dependent
Starting in 2024: Up to $6,000 per dependent
You can claim the Louisiana tuition deduction for 50 percent of the costs you pay per dependent, up to the amount above, if your dependent is homeschooled or attends a public school. If your dependent attends a nonpublic elementary or secondary school, you can deduct the actual costs you pay per dependent, up to the amounts above, for tuition, fees, and other eligible expenses at K-12 private schools.
Parents must claim the deduction on their annual state tax return and provide documentation of unreimbursed education expenses related to their child’s schooling.
Who is eligible for this program?
All K-12 private school students in Louisiana are eligible for this tuition deduction without income limits or prior public school requirements.
How can families use the funds?
Louisiana’s Elementary and Secondary School Tuition Deduction allows you to deduct various educational expenses from your Louisiana taxes, including:
- private school tuition payments
- required school fees
- uniforms for daily use
- textbooks, curricula or instructional materials mandated by schools
- necessary school supplies
The total amount of the tax deduction may not exceed the taxpayer’s total taxable income.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Deduction Limit: Up to $5,000 per dependent for 2011 to 2023, and up to $6,000 starting in 2024
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Louisiana and file an Louisiana income tax return.
- Educational Status: Students entering grades K-12.
- Gather Documentation: Invoices and other documentation of payment for educational expenses.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure that your child is enrolled in a private school located in Louisiana or is being homeschooled and is eligible for free elementary or high school public education and can be claimed as a dependent on your federal tax return.
- Gather Documentation: Keep track of educational expenditures such as tuition fees, textbooks, software costs, tutoring expenses, and supplies.
- File Louisiana State Income Tax Return: Review details on the Louisiana Department of Revenue site. Seek assistance from professional advisors if needed to ensure compliance with program requirements and maximize your tax benefits.
- Other Louisiana School Choice Programs: You are able to participate in one of the Louisiana School Choice programs which include this Louisiana Elementary and Secondary School Tuition Deduction, the LA GATOR Scholarship, or the Louisiana School Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities.
Where can families learn more?
For other Louisiana School Choice Programs: Refer to our Louisiana State Summary.