Loss of rental income during pandemic

[Nooshi N.]

I have a California condo with a tenant who has been great and communicative for 3 years. I inherited him from the last owner and we have had a great landlord-relationship including during the pandemic. He wrote me in late October to say he'll be late with his rent because he is waiting for Social Security. That was his last communication. He missed Nov and December and I wasn't worried about it since he's been so responsible in the past. I texted him last week to touch base and find out how he is, and to get an update, but he didn't reply. Texted him again 2 days ago but no luck. Both texts were very friendly and informal.

I am assuming he's observing the CA rent moratorium at this point, but he hasn't said so and I need to know because he needs to sign a form declaring that the nonpayment is directly related to the pandemic. I heard that it's important to still be serve a pay or quit notice ro start the process for later when I need to collect all the back rent, but I don't want want to antagonize him. 

I know I need to to consult with a RE atty but I also want to see if anyone else is having the same problem and how you're dealing with it. Would appreciate your thoughts and insights.

Thanks in advance.