Delinquent Tenant asking me to use security deposit and last month rent

[Sendil Thangavelu]

Hello,

I have a tenant who has been delinquent for most of the 3 months since they moved in. They eventually have paid so far, albeit late. For the month of August 2024, they are saying that they have hardship and want me to use the money they paid as security deposit (2X rent).

Legally, am I required to use security deposit towards rent when they are delinquent or can I move forward with eviction process?

Thank in advance for your guidance.

Sendil