Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard: the meaning of each tier and the factors that determine your placement.
Term insurance pricing is determined by rate class. Company terminology differs marginally, but the hierarchy remains the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes labeled Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with additional rating increments for elevated risk. Tobacco users are placed in a separate tier structure with increased premiums.
What underwriters look at
Body composition (height relative to weight), blood pressure levels, cholesterol readings, family history of early cardiac events or cancer, driving history, medication list, job responsibilities and pastimes, and any nicotine or tobacco use. Top classes need strong marks in almost all areas; Preferred permits minor concerns; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate well-managed medical conditions like regulated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health inquiry requires truthful self-assessment: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quotes use this tier; the underwriter validates the actual tier following review. In doubt? Request quotes at two tiers for comparison, then permit the application to establish the correct one. Inflating your health tier will not decrease your ultimate premium—it only reduces accuracy in your estimate.
Susman Insurance Agency will assist you in finding carriers with more accommodating underwriting for particular health conditions, which can outweigh the advertised base rate in importance.