Guide
Health classes explained
The rankings—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—what they represent and what determines your placement.
Term rates depend on rate class tiers. Though names differ slightly between carriers, the structure remains stable: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, plus table ratings above standard. Tobacco users have corresponding higher-cost classes.
What underwriters look at
Frame (weight and height), lipid and blood pressure readings, parental cardiovascular or cancer events happening before age 60, traffic safety record, drug history, job and interests, and nicotine or tobacco use. Achieving the top classifications demands favorable evaluations on most parameters; the Preferred tier is more forgiving; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed illnesses such as controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Answer the health inquiry truthfully: Excellent indicates Preferred Plus, Very good equals Preferred, Good means Standard Plus and Average suggests Standard. Your quote uses that classification; underwriting confirms the actual class afterwards. If uncertain, request quotes for two classes, compare them, and let underwriting decide. Inflating your health status won't reduce the final premium—it only weakens estimate accuracy.
Susman Insurance Agency helps you find carriers whose underwriting rules align with your situation, which frequently matters more than base rates.