Tenant Impacted by Government Shutdown

[Jerome Keizer]

Context:

I have a single tenant in Hawaii who is in the National Guard and has been impacted by the government shutdown.  The tenant has been a great tenant, and has paid in full and on time since moving into the unit.  The tenant is active duty, so is currently working but not receiving a paycheck, however, back pay is expected once the shutdown is over.  The tenant has contacted me to discuss how to handle the next rent payment if the shutdown is not resolved by February 1st.  I have funds available to cover the mortgage and expenses for the foreseeable future.

Objective:

With all that said, I want to work with the tenant to come up with an amicable solution with the obviously difficult situation they are experiencing.  I want to make sure I protect myself so that I get any lost rent once the back pay is distributed. 

Question:

Does anyone have some advice on how to handle this unique situation respectfully and professionally?

Thanks in advance!

[Matthew Paul]

I am in a similar situation , with a great tenant , a young man in the coast guard .  I told him to write me a check and I will hold it .  I will do it again at the end of this month .  When he gets paid I will deposit .   Plus I have the check .  

Sure he should have saved money . But I was 24 years old once .  I support the military .