Guide
Health classes explained
What the standard pricing tiers mean and the factors that move you between Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard.
Underwriting tiers, or rate classes, are how insurers price term policies. Despite slight name variations between companies, the structure is consistent: Preferred Plus (also called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with additional ratings for higher risk. Tobacco users have their own pricing tiers at elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
Weight and height ratio, blood pressure and cholesterol values, relatives who had heart disease or cancer before age 60, driving history, what medications you take, your job and hobbies, and tobacco/nicotine consumption. The top tier needs clean results across nearly all aspects; Preferred permits some variation; Standard Plus and Standard allow controlled diseases like blood pressure that is managed with medication.
How to use the quote tool
The tool asks you to characterize your health: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus and Average to Standard. Your quote reflects that tier; the final determination happens after the carrier's full assessment. When in doubt, quote both classes to contrast them, letting underwriting determine your actual tier. Overstating your health does not cut the final price; it only makes the estimate less helpful.
Susman Insurance Agency can guide you to carriers whose medical guidelines are more favorable for your specific health situation, and this often matters more than just looking at the bottom-line rate.