(1) The decedent held an account at the financial institution that was in the decedent's name only. Notify Bank of America.We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. Dying intestate means that a person has died without a will stating how his or her property (called an estate) is to be distributed. After being appointed, one of the first steps is to open a bank account for the estate. How do I open an estate account? Just make an appointment at your local financial center and an associate will be happy to assist you. All applications for new notary commissions, renewal applications, online authorizations, amendments and resignations must be filed electronically here.