The affidavit is often coupled with a copy of the death certificate. The affidavit can then be used to complete the distribution of property."Letters of Office" is not really a letter. If the decedent died without a will (called dying "intestate"), the court appoints an administrator to be the representative. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. A small estate affidavit is a sworn legal document a person can use to assert a claim to assets from the estate of someone who has died. FindLaw explains the probate process when someone dies without a will, detailing appointing an administrator, settling debts, and distributing assets. If one dies without a Will, he or she dies "Intestate. " Since, there is no Will to file, there is no individual specifically identified as an executor. Under Illinois' intestacy laws, your estate will pass to family members or escheat (be transferred) to the state (if you have no known relatives).