Guide
Health classes explained
The four main rate classes explained: Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—what they indicate and what it takes to qualify for each.
Term insurance pricing hinges on rate class. The labels shift from carrier to carrier, but the order stays the same: Preferred Plus (Super Preferred, Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, and higher for extra-risk profiles. Tobacco users occupy their own tier at elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
Height, weight, BP and lipids, family background (heart disease or cancer before 60), driving history, medication record, job and activities, and nicotine use all factor in. The top class demands strong health across the board; Preferred is a bit flexible; Standard Plus and Standard accept managed issues like controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When rating yourself, be honest: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. The quotes mirror your selection; the carrier sets the actual class during underwriting. Unsure? Request two classes, compare, and apply—the underwriting step settles it. Overstating your health doesn't improve the final rate; it just makes the estimate wrong.
When a condition matters, Susman Insurance Agency can steer you toward carriers with more favorable underwriting criteria—often more valuable than chasing the absolute lowest price.