Payable at Death Accounts designate a beneficiary who receives funds remaining in the account at the time of the account holder's death. The beneficiary will normally be asked to present picture identification to bank personnel. Some banks allow a survivor to open a decedent's safety deposit box to look for a will. A bank employee will accompany the survivor to make sure only the will is removed. For a small estate, an affidavit for collection of personal property should permit access to the safety deposit box.
Some banks have their own forms which serve the same purpose as the affidavit.
Other banks require the appointment of a personal representative before allowing access to the safety deposit box. Access to safety deposit boxes in the decedent's and surviving spouse's name depends on the bank.