Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard—what these labels indicate and how carriers move you between categories.
Insurance carriers use underwriting categories to set term life prices. Exact names vary among carriers, but the structure is consistent: Preferred Plus (or Super Preferred/Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, then table ratings for elevated risk. Smokers occupy a parallel tier structure at higher premiums.
What underwriters look at
Physical measurements (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol levels, family history of early heart or cancer, driving record, medication history, job and activities, and any tobacco or nicotine product use. Preferred Plus demands strong results across almost every factor; Preferred permits some variation; Standard Plus and Standard allow chronic but managed conditions like treated hypertension.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks for an honest self-assessment: Excellent indicates Preferred Plus standing, Very good suggests Preferred, Good typically corresponds to Standard Plus, and Average aligns with Standard. Your quote reflects the indicated class; the carrier confirms the actual class following underwriting. When uncertain, obtain quotes at two classes and compare, then allow the underwriting process to finalize. Selecting a better class than justified does not reduce your eventual premium—it only makes the initial estimate less reliable.
Susman Insurance Agency can point you toward carriers whose underwriting rules work better for your specific health situation, which frequently matters more than looking at advertised rates alone.