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 Death is used to close accounts, receive benefits, or take ownership of property, real estate, or securities.After someone dies, notify the government programs and businesses they used. Cancel benefits payments and close or transfer accounts. Most banks will have their own individual procedure for closing a bank account after the title holder of the account passes away. Find an operating agreement online. Fill it out for the deceased, but don't forge the name.