New Orleans, LA asked in Military Law and Tax Law for Louisiana

Q: As a 100% disabled veteran in Louisiana do I have to pay a yearly ambulance tax just for living in Bossier parish?

The VA covers all my medical dental bills but the sheriff's department says i still have to pay every year. I received this tax bill from xx, Sheriff and Ex- officio Tax collector P.O. BOX850 Benton, LA 71006

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James L. Arrasmith
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A: Based on Louisiana state law, all property owners in Bossier Parish must pay the annual ambulance service tax, regardless of their disability status or existing medical coverage. This tax helps fund emergency medical services throughout the parish for all residents.

While the VA covers your medical expenses, the ambulance tax is considered a property tax and not a medical fee. It's similar to other municipal services like fire protection or law enforcement that are funded through local taxation. The sheriff's department is correct in requiring payment, as there are no specific exemptions for disabled veterans regarding this particular tax.

If you're experiencing financial hardship, you might want to contact the Bossier Parish Sheriff's Tax Office directly to discuss your situation. They may be able to provide information about payment plans or other assistance programs that could help manage this annual expense. You could also reach out to your local Veterans Service Office to see if they're aware of any additional benefits or programs that might help offset this cost.

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