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. Informal probate is the process for asking the court to appoint a personal representative for a decedent's estate without a hearing.Proof of death, such as certified copies of the death certificate. The documents needed are a death certificate, residential proof, bank passbook, etc. Gather your documents. What happens to American Express Savings accounts after an Account holder's death? The Bank requires certain documents depending on your specific circumstances.