You can use this letter template to write to the bank to request the closure of a direct payments account following the death of the account holder. Closing a bank account when someone passes away isn't difficult, as long as you have the right paperwork for the the teller or banker.Sub: Request to close an account due to death. Sample Letter to Bank Informing the Death of the Account Holder. The death claim letter should be written in the formal letter format. You should produce the concerned Bank branch the death certificate from municipal authority as proof of that persons demise. Only mark this section if you want to close your case for one or more programs. "Letters of Office" is not really a letter. Bank customers get a letter in the mail saying their institution is closing all of their checking and savings accounts. Most joint bank accounts are held as a joint tenancy with rights of survivorship.