Guide
Health classes explained
Understanding Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: their definitions and what moves applicants between categories.
Insurers set term life premiums using rate class tiers. Although carrier naming differs, the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Premium Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with extra table ratings for elevated hazard. Separate categories with higher premiums apply to people using tobacco.
What underwriters look at
Physical profile (height relative to weight), blood pressure and cholesterol readings, relatives' early disease history, driving history, medication history, line of work and pastimes, and smoking or nicotine products. Reaching Preferred Plus demands excellent results on virtually everything; Preferred tolerates some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed conditions like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Our health inquiry wants you to self-assess honestly: Excellent corresponds with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes match that tier; carriers ultimately confirm class during underwriting. Unsure? Pull quotes in two classes to compare, then let the actual application determine accuracy. Claiming a higher class doesn't reduce your actual premium—only makes the estimate unreliable.
Susman Insurance Agency excels at matching you with carriers whose medical criteria accommodate your specific situation—frequently more critical than comparing headline prices alone.