Guide
Health classes explained
See what Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard mean and what factors move you from one level to another.
Carriers assign rate classes for pricing term insurance. While terminology differs slightly between companies, the scale stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, then special ratings for elevated risk. Smokers are placed in a separate tier with increased rates.
What underwriters look at
Body mass, cholesterol and blood pressure, parent or sibling heart disease or cancer before age 60, driving history, medication record, job and hobbies, and nicotine exposure. Reaching the highest class requires strong numbers across all categories; Preferred allows minor variations; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed conditions like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Be truthful when rating your health: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quotes use that classification; the actual class is determined by the underwriter. Unsure of your rating? Quote two levels to see the difference, then the underwriter will confirm. Overstating your health won't reduce the premium; it just makes the quote less accurate.
Susman Insurance Agency can help identify carriers with more flexible guidelines for your particular situation, which often matters more than comparing headline prices.