To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. The bank will not allow you to close it unless you have a letter of authorization from the probate court.When the decedent died, you automatically have full ownership of that property, so it is not part of the estate. To close a bank account after death, you must completely liquidate its funds. 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. The letter shall start with the sender's address, date, bank's address, and with a salutation. Moreover, you just have to submit documents like a death certificate, ID proof, etc. Please note: Some forms are not electronic forms. You must complete these forms and print them to be returned to the bank.