To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. Notify Bank of America.We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. This page provides questions and answers on how to obtain an estate tax closing letter through Pay.gov. To close a bank account after death, you must completely liquidate its funds. The letters cite reasons for closure such as relocating, no longer needing the account, job changes, and death of an account holder. Make the process of opening an estate account simple and straightforward with this stepbystep guide. Accounts-related documents (i.e. , bank statements, credit card bills, etc. Setting this up will allow your loved ones to receive your account's funds without waiting for the tiring and often complicated probate process to be complete.