That person's property is called the estate. When a person dies and leaves a Will then they died testate.The death of someone close to you is difficult, and dealing with his or her finances can feel overwhelming. You can order a copy of a death certificate for someone who died in New York City in or after 1949. When the person who died (the Decedent) had a Will then the Will must be filed in Surrogate's Court and admitted (approved) for probate. My mother passed away towards the end of last year. I would bring the death certificate to the bank so they know that the family member in question has died. KeyBank guides you through the process of settling a loved one's financial accounts after they die. Get the resources you need to help navigate someone else's financial affairs. The death of someone close to you is difficult, and dealing with his or her finances can feel overwhelming.