Chasing Former Tenant for Small Claims Court

[Jennifer McCurrach]

Tenant moved out on the 6th with an email stating he was moving out THAT DAY. Stiffed us on that month's rent and late fee. Left the fridge full of toxic mold. Bathroom and kitchen dirty, and a large "repaired" hole in the living room wall. Initially he agreed to pay us the $1,000 he owed us (repairs - security deposit). Then he kept coming up with excuses about why he shouldn't pay. Long story short, I had the court sent small claims lawsuit paperwork to his address, which is actually his parents' house. Needless to say, they did not sign for the letter and the court case was cancelled as the mail went  back to the courts. He does not live at home and I am unable to find new address. What do I do now? Do I sent the next set of paperwork to his job? I know where he works, but I'm worried they won't sign for the paperwork either. What do I do?

[WAYNE G.]

You can always get your judgement.  Getting money is another story.

If you give up trying to collect send a letter to last known address forgiving the debt.

Then send a 1099 to the IRS (and debtor) reporting the canceled debt as income.

If you don't get paid, at least get satisfaction.