Guide
Health classes explained
An explanation of the four standard rate grades—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—what each signifies, and the health factors that determine your placement.
Term premiums are determined by rate class, which carriers label slightly differently but follow a consistent hierarchy: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, plus table ratings for elevated risk. Tobacco users occupy a separate, more expensive class structure.
What underwriters look at
Physical metrics (height, weight), blood pressure, cholesterol, early-onset heart disease or cancer in family, driving history, medication record, job and pastimes, and tobacco/nicotine. Top rate classes need clean readings nearly everywhere; Preferred tolerates some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed issues like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Self-rate your health truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Quotes use your selected class; underwriting determines the final one. Uncertain? Quote multiple classes side-by-side to see the difference, then let the application settle it. Inflating your health won't lower the eventual premium—just makes your estimate unreliable.
Susman can help identify carriers with favorable underwriting for your particular health situation—often more valuable than the sticker rate.