Guide
Health classes explained
Understanding Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard categories: what each rating signifies and what qualifies you for each level.
Carriers use rate class as a pricing tool for term insurance. While naming conventions shift slightly between companies, the progression remains standard: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Elite Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with extra ratings for uncommon circumstances. Smokers and tobacco consumers occupy a distinct pricing tier structure.
What underwriters look at
Height-to-weight proportion, blood and cholesterol measurements, family cardiac or cancer history under 60, motor vehicle records, medications taken, career and recreational activities, and smoking history or nicotine consumption. Top-tier rates demand excellent results in virtually all categories; the next level allows some variation; lower categories permit certain controlled situations, like blood pressure management.
How to use the quote tool
When reviewing your health, please be truthful: your selection of Excellent translates to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Your quotes are calculated from that grouping, but insurers determine your real classification through underwriting. If unsure, run quotes at multiple levels to compare, letting the formal application set the real outcome. Picking a favorable classification doesn't lower your real price; it only makes initial quotes less representative.
Different carriers show more tolerance for certain medical situations. Discovering which carriers are most lenient toward your situation frequently outweighs comparing the cheapest price. Susman Insurance Agency makes these comparisons straightforward.