Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: the definitions and factors that determine your rating.
Term insurance pricing uses rate classes. Labels differ between carriers, but the structure is universal: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, then table ratings for elevated risk. Tobacco consumers occupy a separate rating ladder with higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, family cardiac or cancer history before age 60, driving record, medications, job hazards, pastimes, and any tobacco or nicotine use factor in. Top ratings require excellent marks on most fronts; Preferred permits some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed conditions like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question requests an honest appraisal: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes are based on your chosen class; carriers finalize classification after underwriting. When uncertain, quote both classes to compare, then proceed with application. Inflating your health class will not improve your final rate, only make the quote less realistic.
Susman Insurance Agency can identify carriers with more accommodating underwriting for your situation, an advantage that frequently outweighs a lower headline rate.