Education Code § 23803
CHAPTER 22. Active Death Benefits: Family Allowance
Notwithstanding Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 13100) of Part 1 of Division 8 of the Probate Code, or any other provision of law, death payments and return of contributions pursuant to Sections 23801 and 23802, if any, may be requested by the beneficiary and paid by the system as soon as practicable after receipt of proof of death.