For the deceased's bank account, the account number and exact dollar amount in the account must be provided. When it comes to handling the decedent's bank accounts, we're here to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible.To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. A bank closure letter may be needed if you want to close a bank account without having to go to your bank's physical location. 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. The first and foremost thing you must do to close a bank account upon the death of a loved one is to inform the bank of this death. If you're erroneously declared dead, you can't borrow money or get insurance, and your bank accounts may get frozen and credit cards canceled.