Guide
Health classes explained
What Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard mean, plus what affects which one you're in.
Insurance companies price term life using rate classes. Each company calls them slightly different things, but the order is always: Preferred Plus (Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard, plus table ratings for those with higher risk. Tobacco users get their own set of classes that cost more.
What underwriters look at
Your height and weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, family health history (heart disease or cancer before age 60), driving history, what medicines you take, your job and hobbies, and tobacco use. Getting the best rate means everything looks good; Preferred classes are more forgiving; Standard Plus and Standard accept conditions you manage well, like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Answer the health question truthfully: Excellent = Preferred Plus, Very good = Preferred, Good = Standard Plus, Average = Standard. Your quotes are based on that rating; the carrier sets your actual class during underwriting. Not sure? Get quotes for both classes to compare; the full application will confirm your real tier. Don't over-state your health—your final premium won't go down, you'll just get less accurate quotes.
Susman Insurance Agency can help find carriers with better policies for your health situation—often more important than the price you see advertised.