How Can I Access a Deceased Person's Bank Account? In general, the executor of the estate handles any assets the deceased owned, including money in bank accounts.It is often necessary that the property and financial affairs of a deceased person be supervised through a court process. Illinois Legal Aid has an online sample form along with instructions for filling it out. The decedent left no will. File the will in the appropriate probate court, then notify the deceased's relatives. The affidavit is often coupled with a copy of the death certificate. The affidavit can then be used to complete the distribution of property. The succession in ownership provided for in the trust agreement then becomes effective upon death without the expense of going through probate proceedings.