need advice on deceased bank account

What is the name of your state? NEW YORK

A relative on mine (uncle) died overseas in an accident. He never wrote or
had any will. We know of his one bank account,. It's only under his
name.

I have access to his account due to the fact I know his PIN and am able to
check what is in there (only about $2K).

My question is this. We reside in New York, and his closest known survivor
is his sister (my mother). Are we able in any way get legal access to this
account? We have the death certificate.

Thanks for any advice.

[JETX]

"We reside in New York, and his closest known survivor is his sister (my mother). Are we able in any way get legal access to this account?"
*** Yes. Apply with the court to become the 'estates' representative, pay any outstanding creditor claims (from the estate) and anything left over is to be distributed per his 'home' state intestate laws.

"We have the death certificate."
*** Means nothing.