To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. Bank accounts that are solely in your name can be held up temporarily upon your death.In New York State, the Surrogate's Court decides what happens to a person's property when that person dies. The letters cite reasons for closure such as relocating, no longer needing the account, job changes, and death of an account holder. Notify Bank of America. We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. Learn everything there is to know when it comes to opening and withdrawing from an estate account in NYC. We go over when you can and cannot take out money. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. The only option going forward will be to close the account and pay the funds to the estate.