dharmagirl- I’m no expert on this, but what does your lease agreement say? For instance, I have seen lease agreements that say the security deposit is not to be used in lieu of last month’s rent, but also says the deposit can be used to “cure” lack of or late rent payments. Also, what is your penalty/late fee? If its say $25 or $50, then what do you have to lose by not paying your rent? Yes, they can take you to small claims court, but again, if your rental agreement says the security deposit can be used to cure any rental payments, I don’t see what your real risk is?
