To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. An Affidavit of this nature allows a bank or credit union in Florida to pay a qualified family member the funds in the decedent's bank accounts.Notify Bank of America. We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. The Florida next of kin law provides the framework for the distribution of a person's assets after they pass away, in the absence of a will. Here's what that means, and how you can get these letters so you can handle your family member's affairs after their death. One thing for sure is that the bank will want to know the specific reasons for the removal request as the next-to-kin. 1. Get Copies of the Family Member's Death Certificate. We're here to help when a loved one passes away. The death of someone close to you is difficult, and dealing with his or her finances can feel overwhelming.