Guide
Health classes explained
The four main categories—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard—explained, plus what changes your rating.
Insurers rank term premiums using rate classes. Though names vary across companies, the hierarchy stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Best Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, then table ratings for increased-risk profiles. Tobacco applicants have a separate set of classifications at elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, hereditary illness (heart or cancer before age 60), driving history, medication record, work and leisure, nicotine or tobacco use. The top tiers demand near-perfect results; Preferred permits some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate controlled disorders like managed high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health form asks for your honest self-rating: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very Good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus and Average to Standard. Your quoted rate reflects this class; the insurer determines the actual class during review. Unsure? Run quotes for two classes to compare, and let underwriting make the final call. Overstating your health class does not reduce your actual premium; it just makes the estimate less realistic.
Different carriers have different underwriting guidelines; Susman Insurance Agency helps you locate carriers most receptive to your specific circumstances. This often proves more valuable than simply chasing the lowest advertised rate.