Nightmare scenario playing out. Can’t evict!

[David J.]

I need some advice please. 

Northern California landlord here. Tenant couple who are late on rent 9 out of 12 months has not paid at all for April. 

Claims it’s because they both are working less or not at all. (Mixed stories over several texts) 

Said full rent would be available last Friday so I provided the extra time with no late fee. When Friday came they pushed it to Saturday because they “couldn’t get to the bank”.

Saturday morning they claimed they only wanted to pay partial because they still need to make car payments and buy food. 

I explained that full rent would still need to be paid but asked how much they could pay now. It’s been 24 hours haven’t heard a thing since. 

This is quickly getting out of control. What should I do? 

[John Underwood]

Ask them to contact car loan company to ask for deferral there so they can pay rent.

Explain to them that they have more resources than you to go without payment.

Tell them you need to buy food too.

Phone call will get you farther than text or email.