Guide
Health classes explained
Understanding Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard: how insurers define each and what factors determine classification changes.
Carriers organize term insurance rates using rate classifications. Although terminology differs slightly between providers, the progression is parallel: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with supplementary surcharges for increased-risk scenarios. Smokers occupy a separate classification structure at elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
Physical measurements (height and weight), cardiac and lipid numbers, parental or sibling disease patterns for cardiac or cancer events before turning 60, traffic violations, medication records, work activities and pastimes, and nicotine consumption. Optimal classification demands favorable findings across virtually every category; Preferred permits some variance; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed ailments such as hypertension with medication.
How to use the quote tool
Be truthful when answering the health inquiry: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus and Average to Standard. Your quote uses this classification, confirmed by underwriting. When uncertain, obtain quotes for two classifications to evaluate side-by-side, then the application resolves the distinction. Overstating health does not reduce costs; it simply makes the estimate inaccurate.
When an applicant has a specific condition, Susman Insurance Agency helps pinpoint carriers with more accommodating evaluation standards—frequently a more significant factor than the published price.