Guide
Health classes explained
The definitions of Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, and which factors determine your placement.
Term insurance rates are organized by rating class. Company labels differ slightly, but the framework stays the same: Preferred Plus (Super Preferred, Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, plus extra charges for above-standard risk. Tobacco consumers occupy their own tier with elevated premiums.
What underwriters look at
Weight relative to height, BP and lipid panels, ancestors with early cardiac or cancer diagnoses, how you drive, medications you take, what you do for work and in your time off, and any nicotine consumption. The elite class demands strong marks on virtually everything; Preferred is more forgiving; Standard Plus and Standard accept well-managed problems like medicated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health inquiry requests your genuine assessment: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes match the class you pick; the insurer validates your final class during review. Uncertain? Request quotes at two levels and review the difference, then proceed with your application. Overestimating health won't yield a lower rate in the end—it just inflates your initial estimate.
Susman Insurance Agency helps identify carriers with more favorable underwriting for your particular situation, which frequently has more impact than sticker prices.