N.Y.C. Admin. Code § 13-210: § 13-210 Return of deductions on discontinuance of membership or on death.

a. Should a member discontinue service in the force, except by death or retirement, he or she shall be paid the amount of the five per cent. or six per cent. deductions without interest made from his or her pay, salary or compensation pursuant to subdivision nine of section 13-203 of this subchapter.

b. In the event that a member shall die before retirement and a pension is not paid by the board of trustees pursuant to section 13-209 of this subchapter, the amount of the five per cent. or six per cent. deductions without interest made from the pay, salary or compensation of such member pursuant to subdivision nine of section 13-203 of this subchapter shall be paid by such board to the beneficiary or beneficiaries, as such member shall have nominated by written designation duly acknowledged and filed with such board. Such designation shall be made within thirty days after this section shall take effect, and may be changed, from time to time, by such member upon filing with the board a new designation duly acknowledged.