Tenant Needs Help and Can't Pay Rent

[Brandon Johnson]

Attention Bigger Pockets Landlord Community,

I have a tenant in Baton Rouge, LA in a low income subdivision whose daughter (living with her) has been dealing with cancer and was given up on by the medical community and she was sent home to be comfortable as the end of her life is expected soon (but she keeps hanging on).  This family has been struggling to pay rent due to this situation and they are currently a month behind on paying.  Last month I credited them $300 of the $650 that was due in order to help out because charitable giving is a big part of my life and my success and something I like to do as much as I can.  

This morning I got a call from their church because they were going to lend some financial assistance, but could only provide $200 and that was conditioned on them being able to come up with the remainder of January's past due rent.  I know they are truly falling on hard times as this family works low paying jobs.  I'm not sure what to do because I know I can't continue to let them stay and not pay rent.  Has anyone else ever had to deal with a similar situation and if so, how did you handle it?

The family has setup a Gofundme campaign that never really gained any traction.  I'm really just looking for advice on the matter.

[Thomas S.]

I have dealt with a similar situation and the bottom line is you either let them live for free or inform them they must move.

The daughters condition is irrelevant. Tenants have payment issues of all sorts and regardless of the cause the end result is always the same....the landlord either loses money or deals with the issue on a professional bases.

Charity or business, it is your decision.  

The question for you is whether allowing them to owe money will pay off. Once the daughter is dead will they catch up or immediately move out leaving you holding the bag. My guess is once the funeral is over they will move.