When a loved one dies in North Carolina, some tasks for handling the estate require immediate attention. Death Certificate. 6.Request copies of the death certificate. Do you need to obtain a letter of testamentary in NC? Our estate planning attorney guides you through the process in our blog. This is to notify the bank that my. (Relationship with deceased). The first step to beginning the probate process is filling out the correct forms. A letter of last instruction is an organized way for you to give your family all the facts about your finances—and have a basic tool for your own. 1. Fill out the Application for Probate and Letters (AOC-E-201) 2.