The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court. KeyBank guides you through the process of settling a loved one's financial accounts after they die.In New York State, the Surrogate's Court decides what happens to a person's property when that person dies. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. You'll just need the death certificate and your ID. The bank should close the account and make checks payable to the beneficiary. Sample letter to close bank account of deceased. How Do Bank Closure Letters Work? You'll need the original or certified copy of the appointment letter naming you as the personal representative of the estate along with any additional court-. You should also make a list of what the Decedent owned at the time of death (such as bank accounts, house, stocks, etc.). The audit identified the need for BCPA to improve its processes for identifying and safeguarding decedent's assets and maintaining accurate estate records.