Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: what the levels mean and what determines which one you fall into.
Carriers establish rate tiers for term life coverage. While terminology differs slightly, the spectrum is similar everywhere: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with table ratings for greater-than-standard risk. Tobacco users get a parallel scale at higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Build—your height and weight ratio—blood pressure and lipid panel results, relatives' early heart disease or cancer history, driving violations, medications you take, line of work and recreational activities, and smoking or nicotine use. The top tier requires nearly pristine results across all categories; Preferred permits modest variations; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate controlled issues like managed high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health section asks you to be truthful: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Rates reflect that level; the carrier sets the final level during underwriting. If unsure, quote multiple levels and evaluate, then let the application settle it. Picking an optimistic level does not reduce final costs; it just makes the initial estimate wrong.
Susman Insurance Agency assists you in locating carriers whose approval guidelines suit your specific health profile, which typically matters more than the advertised headline rate.