To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court.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. 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. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. Customer: My husband Rick died May 9 2013. Affidavit-death forms are used to change the title on rea l property after the death of a joint tenant, trustee or trustor. Closing a bank account following the death of a direct payments customer. Gather necessary documents: The bank will want to make sure they are giving the right person the money. Start, stop or transfer electric or gas services for homes and businesses online.