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. 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? The first step to beginning the probate process is filling out the correct forms. A letter indicating that there are sufficient funds in the Estate to pay funeral costs may be required. Keep all contracts and receipts from the funeral home. Fill out the Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of Decedent (AOC-E-203B). 2. Sub: Request to close an account due to death. Such as switching to a different bank or financial institution, or in the case of a deceased account holder. James Knox Polk was the 11th president of the United States, serving from 1845 to 1849.