To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. Sample Letter – Asking for a debt write-off when someone is deceased.Re: Deletion of name of the deceased shareholder. It has always been my understanding that if a name is to be removed from a joint account, the account has to be closed and a new account opened. To remove a joint account holder due to death, attach a copy of a death certificate. Sample Letter to Bank Informing the Death of the Account Holder. The death claim letter should be written in the formal letter format. Notify Bank of America. We'll ask you for the deceased customer's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts. Please let me know if any other documents are required for claiming the amount of deceased.