Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: what these classifications mean and what determines which category you fall into.
Carriers determine term life costs by rate classification. Although names vary from company to company, the structure is consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, followed by table adjustments for higher risk. Tobacco consumers have a separate set of classes with higher premiums.
What underwriters look at
Physical metrics (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol readings, history of heart or cancer illness in the family before age 60, driving history, prescription records, work and leisure activities, and use of tobacco or nicotine. The best rate requires positive results across almost all categories; Preferred allows some variance; Standard Plus and Standard approve applicants with ongoing but managed conditions, such as high blood pressure under medication.
How to use the quote tool
The health section of our quote form asks you to assess yourself: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quotes are calculated using that classification; the carrier will confirm or adjust your actual class after underwriting. If you're unsure, run quotes at two different health levels and compare, then let the application process determine your final standing. Picking a better class than you qualify for won't lower your final rate; it only makes your estimate less realistic.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you locate carriers that are more favorable toward specific medical conditions. For many applicants, finding the right carrier matters more than the advertised rate.