To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. 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. Fill it out for the deceased, but don't forge the name. Discover the precise steps to secure Letters of Testamentary in California. Our comprehensive guide makes the process straightforward and hassle-free. In general, you can't. The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court. The completed form DE150 should then be submitted to the probate court in the county in which the deceased resided in at the time of death. To claim a bank account, you will need documentation to inform the bank of the account holder's death and confirm your identity.