Commutative Property. An operation is commutative if you can change the order of the numbers involved without changing the result. Addition and multiplication are both commutative. Subtraction is not commutative: 2 - 1 is not equal to 1 - 2. Here are some examples of the commutative properties of addition and multiplication: 88 + 65 = 65 + 88. 153 = 153.
Another consideration is that SBP premiums reduce the retiree's taxable income and reduce out-of-pocket costs for coverage. SBP benefits are taxed as income to the survivor however the tax rate upon receipt of the annuity will generally be less than the member's current tax rate. Most insurance plans are the reverse; premiums are paid from after-tax income, while survivors are not taxed on the proceeds.
Taxable income from retired pay does not include the amount of SBP deductions. Participants are taxed only on what they actually receive. For example, if a retiree's non-disability retired pay is $6,000 a year and is reduced by $700 for SBP, only the reduced retired pay of $5,300 need be included as taxable income on the Federal income tax return. The SBP payable to the designated beneficiary is subject to Federal income tax, but is not subject to Federal estate tax.