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. In New York State, the Surrogate's Court decides what happens to a person's property when that person dies.You should also make a list of what the Decedent owned at the time of death (such as bank accounts, house, stocks, etc.). To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. Dealing with the death of someone close to you is never easy. We've put together a guide of what to do if your loved one had an investment account with us. Obtain your letters of testamentary in New York with ease. Bank accounts that are solely in your name can be held up temporarily upon your death. File this form in Surrogate's Court. Losing someone close to you can be very difficult.