Guide
Health classes explained
Rate classifications—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard—explained: the meaning of each label and what determines your placement.
Underwriting for term life is based on rate classifications. Though label specifics differ among companies, the structure remains familiar: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard, with additional levels for higher-risk cases. Smokers occupy a separate ranking ladder with increased premiums.
What underwriters look at
Factors include your build (weight relative to height), blood-pressure numbers and lipid panel results, whether your family had heart or cancer cases prior to age 60, your driving record, pharmaceutical history, what you do for work or leisure, and any cigarette or nicotine consumption. Achieving the top class requires strong performance across almost every measure; Preferred permits some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accept conditions like treated blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
On the health question, report yourself accurately: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quoted rates match this classification; the carrier finalizes your class during underwriting. When uncertain, requesting quotes at two different classes for comparison helps; the underwriting process will confirm the right level. Picking an inflated category does not produce a lower quote; it only reduces accuracy.
At Susman Insurance Agency, we help you locate carriers whose underwriting standards accommodate your health profile, which generally matters more than the starting rate you see.