To close a bank account on behalf of someone who has passed away, you must have legal authority to manage the account. You can use this letter template to write to the bank to request the closure of a direct payments account following the death of the account holder.Enclosed with this letter are the death certificate and my legal authorization as the executor. When the estate is ready for closing, you are also required to file a final account with a description of property remaining in the estate. A death claim application letter for a bank is basically a letter to the bank stating that the account holder has been deceased. 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. When the estate is ready for closing, you are also required to file a final account with a description of property remaining in the estate. Gather necessary documents: The bank will want to make sure they are giving the right person the money. Bank accounts; Stocks and bonds; Debts owed to the person.