Guide
Health classes explained
The four main rate classes—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard—their definitions, and the factors shifting you between them.
Pricing for term insurance is organized by rate class. Though carriers name them slightly differently, the hierarchy stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with table ratings added for elevated risk. Tobacco users sit in a separate category with correspondingly higher rates.
What underwriters look at
Physical metrics (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol levels, family medical history for early heart disease or cancer, your driving record, prescription history, your occupation and activities, and any tobacco or nicotine product use. The top tier demands excellent results across virtually all categories; Preferred is somewhat flexible; Standard Plus and Standard accept managed conditions like controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Select a health description that reflects your situation: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus and Average to Standard. Your quotes are based on the class you choose; the carrier sets the definitive class through underwriting. When in doubt, run quotes at two different classes, compare them, and let the application clarify. An inflated health rating won't reduce your ultimate premium—it only skews your estimate higher.
Susman Insurance Agency helps you identify carriers with underwriting criteria more favorable to your specific health situation—often a bigger factor than the published rate.