To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. Payableondeath bank accounts allow a bank to release funds to a named beneficiary on the account holder's death without the beneficiary having to go to court.Learn More About Section 153.003 Of The Texas Estates Code And Obtaining Bank Account Information Of A Deceased Family Member In Texas. Think of the letter like a power of attorney, but for someone who died. The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. Luckily, many banks and financial institutions will accept a small estate affidavit. If there is a will, a muniment of title may also provide a solution. There you will open a checking account that should be titled "The Estate of.