If a person dies without a Will, then the proceeding filed is called administration and the property is divided according to the law. The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court.You should also make a list of what the Decedent owned at the time of death (such as bank accounts, house, stocks, etc.). Navigate estate closure with expert guidance. Learn how to limit liability and ensure fair distribution for beneficiaries today. Bank accounts that are solely in your name can be held up temporarily upon your death. I found all his bills are not getting paid because the account is frozen. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. A death claim application letter for a bank is basically a letter to the bank stating that the account holder has been deceased. Do you know how to find out if you are a beneficiary on a bank account?