Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: what these labels mean and how carriers move applicants between them.
Carriers set term life premiums using rate classes. The names shift slightly between companies, but all follow the same ranking: Preferred Plus (also Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with table ratings for higher-risk applicants. Tobacco users have a separate set of classes at increased cost.
What underwriters look at
Build (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol, any family history of cancer or heart disease before age 60, your driving record, medications you take, your work and pastimes, and whether you use tobacco or nicotine products. The best rates need excellent results on nearly all of these. Preferred rates allow a small amount of deviation. Standard Plus and Standard rates accept controlled medical conditions, like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks you to report yourself accurately: Excellent becomes Preferred Plus, Very good becomes Preferred, Good becomes Standard Plus, and Average becomes Standard. Quotes reflect that class; the carrier sets the final class after underwriting. If you are uncertain, get quotes for two classes to compare, then let the application settle it. Reporting a better health level does not actually lower your final premium—it only changes the quote estimate.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you find carriers whose underwriting guidelines are more favorable to your specific health situation, which often matters more than the headline rate.