Administration is the process where the Surrogate's Court officially gives out Letters of Administration to a qualified distributee (heir) of the Decedent. To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account.Probate is the process of proving that the Will is valid (legally acceptable). During probate, the Will must be proved to the satisfaction of the Court. If submitting online, you must provide your Social Security number for verification. Probate is a legal process that transfers a person's property after they die. This process also makes sure that the person's debts and taxes are paid. To close a bank account after death, you must completely liquidate its funds. Administration is the process where the Surrogate's Court officially gives out Letters of Administration to a qualified distributee (heir) of the Decedent. You will need to document your relationship to the family member and provide a copy of a death certificate or obituary.