Guide
Health classes explained
How to read four rate levels: Plus Preferred, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard—what separates them and how to move between them.
Carriers organize term pricing by rate category. While names shift between firms, the tier system stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Elite Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard, with extra ratings for higher risk. Those who use tobacco have their own set of rates, higher across the board.
What underwriters look at
Height-to-weight ratio, blood pressure and lipids, parents' or siblings' heart or cancer diagnoses before 60, driving history, medicine use, work and activities, and any nicotine or tobacco use. Preferred Plus demands strong marks almost across the board; Preferred allows some flexibility; Standard Plus and Standard allow stable, monitored illnesses such as blood pressure under control.
How to use the quote tool
When asked about health, give an honest self-assessment: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Fair with Standard. Quotes assume your selected category; actual rating comes after underwriting. Can't decide between categories? Quote both and weigh the difference—the company will set the real rate during review. Picking a flattering category won't drop your final price, just make the estimate wrong.
Susman Insurance Agency has tools to find carriers that treat certain health situations more favorably—often more valuable than focusing on advertised pricing.