When a bank account is stuck in probate, it costs grieving heirs valuable time and money. When can I close the estate and distribute the assets?The process of claiming a bank account after death varies based on a number of factors. Here's how to claim a deceased person's bank accounts. Complete the attached forms in black ink. Scan your completed forms and save as a single PDF file. If you are not named anywhere on the account, however, you will need to complete the probate process to have the assets transferred to you. This publication is designed to help those in charge (personal representatives) of the property (estate) of an individual who has died (decedent). How a person owned a bank account, the type of account, and how it was set up all dictate how that account is dealt with after they die. Using direct deposit.