Funds belonging to a deceased depositor which remain on deposit in a joint account without right of survivorship belong to the depositor's estate. We're ready to help.This guide explains the account settlement process after the death of a member. Download and complete a Probate Notice to Creditors form. Washington law (RCW 30A. 22.100) permits several ways to title a checking account, savings account, or Certificate of Deposit, whether at a bank or credit union. In Washington, you can add a "payable-on-death" (POD) designation to bank accounts such as savings accounts or certificates of deposit. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. We'll need a photocopy of the death certificate to verify the identity and legal residence of your loved one as well as confirm date of death. Upon the death of the account owner, assuming the named beneficiary is alive, the funds in the account belong to the beneficiary.