Guide
Health classes explained
The rate classes explained: what Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard signify, and how answers affect which one applies.
Term life is priced using rate classes. While names differ between carriers, the hierarchy is standard: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard. Above that are table ratings for elevated risk. Smokers and tobacco users get their own class scale at higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, whether heart disease or cancer appears in your family before age 60, your driving history, medications, job, pastimes, and tobacco or nicotine status. The highest class demands excellent marks nearly across the board. Preferred is more forgiving. Standard Plus and Standard accept managed conditions like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Be honest when rating your health: Excellent translates to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, Average to Standard. Quotes show that class; the carrier sets your actual class after underwriting. Torn between two? Quote both and compare. Don't pick the better one hoping to get a lower rate—it won't work, and you'll get inaccurate quotes.
Some carriers are more flexible with particular health situations than others. Susman Insurance Agency can help match you to carriers whose approval guidelines fit your circumstances—sometimes that matters more than a low rate on paper.