Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard: what these categories signify and why you might move between them.
Insurance carriers organize term premiums by rate category. Exact names differ by company, but the tiers are standardized: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard, with additional tiers for greater risk. Tobacco users are placed in separate tiers with elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
Body metrics (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol levels, cancer or heart disease in close family before age 60, driving history, medication list, job type and recreation, and any tobacco or nicotine products. Top rates require clean findings across the board; Preferred allows minor findings; Standard Plus and Standard permit controlled issues like managed blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Your health question should be answered truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes are calculated accordingly; the carrier determines final category post-underwriting. When unsure, quote at multiple levels and review, then let underwriting confirm. Overstating your health doesn't reduce your final cost; it just makes the estimate inaccurate.
Susman Insurance Agency evaluates carriers that apply friendlier standards for your circumstances—often more significant than the stated rate.