To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. The letter shall start with the sender's address, date, bank's address, and with a salutation.Most banks will have their own individual procedure for closing a bank account after the title holder of the account passes away. To close a bank account after death, you must completely liquidate its funds. This page provides questions and answers on how to obtain an estate tax closing letter through Pay.gov. Most users should use Closing Statement (MPC 850). If you need to save a partially filled-out form, you may choose to use the alternative form:. 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. We'll need a photocopy of the death certificate to verify the identity and legal residence of your loved one as well as confirm date of death.