Return security deposit when a couple splits

[Mike H.]

In my many years of rental experience, this is the first time I have run into this situation.  Hope to get some feed backs or experience sharing from you guys.
Location: Dallas, Texas

I have initially leased the property to a couple, however at end of lease they have decided to split.  Here comes the issue I am having, each party claims the return deposit should go to them and I am the person stuck in the middle.  How would you deal with this situation?

if it were a roommate situation, I usually just split the deposit.  But w/ this couple split, I am not sure if it is the same or there are other ways in this situation?  and thing I should be aware to protest my position.   Thank you in advance for your inputs.

[Nathan Gesner]

Three options:

1. Send them a check with both their names on it. They can't cash it unless they both sign it and then they can argue about it amongst themselves.

2. Send a letter asking for payment instructions and require a signature from both of them agreeing to the split.

3. Make the check payable to the person that handed you the payment for the deposit in the first place.