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.This page tells you about: What is probate? Is probate necessary? If no one files probate for an individual who has died and owned assets in California, the court can freeze the decedent's assets. You'll just need the death certificate and your ID. The bank should close the account and make checks payable to the beneficiary. No. You will need to administer deceased father's estate to cash check. Your attorney can assist with researching whether probate already opened. You have to submit your father's death surtificate and legal heir surtificate and get the amount lying in his account. No. You will need to administer deceased father's estate to cash check.