To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. A. Accounts must be filed with the Commissioner of Accounts.The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court. This manual is intended to assist persons who are involved in the administration of a decedent's estate in Virginia. KeyBank guides you through the process of settling a loved one's financial accounts after they die. 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. Online: Use our online form to notify us about a customer's death. You'll need the original or certified copy of the appointment letter naming you as the personal representative of the estate along with any additional court-. We'll communicate and work with you on what's needed for handling our deceased client's specific banking relationship. To close a bank account after death, you must completely liquidate its funds.