First time a tenant has failed to make rent. What to do?

[Steve S.]

Their business has been destroyed by inflation

asked if they could use the deposit to cover rent for this month. 

What should I do next?  I want to be sensitive to their situation as the economy is bad and we’re all struggling but we run a business. 

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Steve S.:

1. Do not use the deposit for anything until their lease is over and they are out.

2. Can they break the lease and move into something more affordable? I would try to convince them to leave before this becomes a bigger problem.

3. They can apply for the COVID rental assistance program that is still burning through tax-payer dollars for no reason. There are other rental assistance programs available through churches, Department of Family Services, etc.

4. If they don't provide proof they are making sacrifices and working to make the rent, start the eviction.