Learn how some of a deceased person's assets and debts can be distributed without going to court. This depends on whether they had the right documents.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. This set provides coverage of every aspect of probate law and estate and trust administration in Texas. It includes sample forms and letters. Although not always required, our experienced probate attorneys at Kreig LLC are here to help if your bank demands letters testamentary. A transfer on death deed (TODD) is a legal document that allows a person to transfer ownership of their property after they die. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. There you will open a checking account that should be titled "The Estate of. (Decedent's Name)" and you will sign as.