If the account is either or survivor, the survivor can continue or close the account with the death certificate. Closing a bank account when someone passes away isn't difficult, as long as you have the right paperwork for the the teller or banker.Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. Our office only issues death certificates for deaths that occurred in Pennsylvania since 1906. For joint accounts "with the right of survivorship" the survivor owns all of the money in the account, but you still must notify the bank of the death. A bank must have an EIN to open the account as the person is deceased and their social security number doesn't suffice. Your county assistance office will set up an interview with you.