NOT LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE
This content is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently and vary by circumstance. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state before taking any legal action. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on this information.
Louisiana Freelance Invoice Laws
General information about collecting unpaid invoices in Louisiana
Last Updated: 2025-01-01 • Always verify with a Louisiana attorney
Late Fee Limit
No statutory limit for B2B contracts
Interest Rate
6% per annum (legal rate); 12% for commercial
Small Claims Limit
$5,000
Statute of Limitations
10 years for written contracts, 10 years for oral
Additional Context
Late Fees: Late fees must be reasonable and specified in the contract. Louisiana (civil law state) has unique provisions.
Interest: Commercial/business rate is 12%. Louisiana's civil law system differs from common law states.
Small Claims: Justice of the Peace courts handle small claims in rural areas. City courts in urban areas. Limits vary by court.
General Best Practices
These are general suggestions, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.
- ✓ Understand Louisiana's unique civil law system
- ✓ Use written contracts with clear payment terms
- ✓ Take advantage of the 12% commercial interest rate
- ✓ Send invoices promptly with detailed itemization
- ✓ Louisiana has a generous 10-year statute of limitations
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Not understanding Louisiana's civil law differences
- ✗ Using templates designed for common law states
- ✗ Not specifying the 12% commercial rate in contracts
- ✗ Not knowing which court handles your claim amount
- ✗ Skipping demand letters
When to Consult an Attorney
For invoices over $5,000 or complex disputes. Louisiana's civil law system has unique requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Louisiana?
Louisiana small claims limits vary by court type. Justice of the Peace courts in rural areas handle up to $5,000. City courts in New Orleans and Baton Rouge have similar limits.
How long do I have to sue for an unpaid invoice in Louisiana?
Louisiana has a generous 10-year statute of limitations for both written and oral contracts—one of the longest in the US.
What interest rate can I charge on overdue invoices in Louisiana?
The legal rate is 6% per annum. For commercial/business transactions, you can charge 12%. Louisiana's civil law system differs from other states.
Is Louisiana law different from other states?
Yes, Louisiana uses a civil law system based on Napoleonic Code, unlike the common law system in other states. Contract interpretation rules may differ.
Do I need a collection license in Louisiana?
You can collect your own debts without a license. Third-party agencies must be licensed by the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions.
Sources & References
These are reference sources only. Laws change—verify current statutes before taking action.
- Louisiana Civil Code Article 2924 (Interest)
- Louisiana Constitution Art. 5, § 16 (Courts)
- Louisiana Civil Code Article 3499 (Prescription)
- Louisiana Supreme Court - Court Structure
IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This is NOT legal or financial advice. The information on this page is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal, financial, or professional advice.
Laws change frequently. State laws, court rules, and regulations are subject to change without notice. The information presented here may not reflect the most current legal developments or may not apply to your specific situation.
Consult a licensed professional. Before taking any action based on the information on this website, you should consult with a licensed attorney in Louisiana who can provide advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship. Viewing this information does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Happy Freelance Life or its creators.
No liability. Happy Freelance Life and its creators disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any information on this website. You assume full responsibility for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
If you need legal help, please contact the Louisiana State Bar Association for attorney referrals or a legal aid organization in your area.
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Take the QuizThis information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Louisiana is a civil law state with unique legal principles. Consult a licensed Louisiana attorney for specific legal guidance. This page was last updated on 2025-01-01. For current legal information, consult the official Louisiana state statutes or a licensed Louisiana attorney. Happy Freelance Life is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.