"A letter of last instruction is a document that outlines funeral planning processes and arrangements. Notify Bank of America.We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. In most cases, you'll need some sort of legal document to gain access to bank accounts after a person's death. This set provides coverage of every aspect of probate law and estate and trust administration in Texas. It includes sample forms and letters. You need to take your mother's death certificate to the bank. They will freeze her account and flag it "Estate of the Deceased (mother's name)". A letter of instruction is also a good place to leave burial or cremation wishes. This paper tells your loved ones who will get your home, car, or bank account(s) after your death.