In Utah, a small estate affidavit is not filed with the courts. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account.A bank closure letter may be needed if you want to close a bank account without having to go to your bank's physical location. A small estate affidavit is not filed with the court. 75-3-1003 Closing estates -- By sworn statement of personal representative -- Waiver of accountings. It gives the right to handle financial and other affairs related to closing out the estate. In essence, it offers the power to act in a truly fiduciary manner. Inheritance and other death taxes, except as specified in the statement, and that the assets of the estate have been distributed to the persons entitled. We are sorry for your loss and understand that settling an estate can seem overwhelming. What happens to American Express Savings accounts after an Account holder's death?