To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. It may also be possible to claim a deceased person's bank account without probate if the decedent's trust disposes of the bank account.The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court. The first and foremost thing you must do to close a bank account upon the death of a loved one is to inform the bank of this death. The letter shall start with the sender's address, date, bank's address, and with a salutation. Start the letter with your introduction and the reason for writing the letter. You'll just need the death certificate and your ID. The bank should close the account and make checks payable to the beneficiary. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. Call 911 right away if there is an unexpected death in your home. The medical team will help you figure out the next steps.