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. The BMO Alto Letter of Direction describes how an authorized representative would like BMO Alto to settle the decedent's account.To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. When a death occurs, how do you go about closing the accounts of someone who died? Bank accounts that are solely in your name can be held up temporarily upon your death. Although not always required, our experienced probate attorneys at Kreig LLC are here to help if your bank demands letters testamentary.