Guide
Health classes explained
What the four class names represent and what factors determine which one you get.
Term life premiums hinge on the applicant's rate class. Each carrier uses slightly different names, but the tier order stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with additional table ratings for elevated risk. Tobacco smokers and users get their own ranking at higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight ratio, blood pressure and cholesterol readings, whether close family had heart disease or cancer under 60, your driving record, what medications you take, what you do for work and play, and tobacco or nicotine habit. Preferred Plus wants nearly spotless marks in every box; Preferred permits a few minor items; Standard Plus and Standard will allow controlled problems like medicated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
On the health question, be truthful about yourself: Excellent health aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Your quotes match that class; the carrier sets the real class once underwriting is complete. Unsure which fits? Quote both and compare. Being too generous with yourself won't cut your final cost—it only throws off the estimate.
Susman Insurance Agency is able to point out carriers whose underwriting rules work better with a particular health condition, which can be more important than the advertised rate.