Guide
Health classes explained
What the four main rate tiers are, how they differ, and what determines which tier you land in.
Term insurance pricing is organized by rate class. Terminology varies, but the rungs are standard: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, then table ratings for above-standard risk. People using tobacco or nicotine have a separate class ladder at higher rates.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight in proportion, blood pressure and lipid levels, any family history of early heart or cancer, driving history, medications you take, what you do for work and fun, and any tobacco or nicotine. The top tier demands a clean slate on nearly everything; Preferred is more forgiving; Standard Plus and Standard allow common managed conditions like medicated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks you to size yourself up truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes show that class; the carrier sets the official class after underwriting. If you are uncertain, quote both options and compare; the application will settle it. An inflated self-rating does not reduce your ultimate cost—it only skews the estimate.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you find carriers whose underwriting favors your particular situation, which often matters more than the advertised rate.