Guide
Health classes explained
Rate categories—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard—mean what they say and how carriers position applicants within them.
Insurance companies structure term rates by rating class—branding varies between insurers, but tiers stay consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, plus surcharges for elevated risk. A second tier structure applies for smokers at higher prices.
What underwriters look at
Assessment factors: BMI, blood lipids and glucose, family histories of cardiac or malignant disease before age sixty, vehicle record, medication inventory, work and pastimes, smoking and nicotine exposure. Elite tiers want spotless marks across nearly all dimensions; Preferred tiers tolerate greater deviation; Standard tiers acknowledge treated chronic diseases including managed high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Answer the health question truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes use this class, but underwriting confirms the actual class. Uncertain about your health tier? Quote two and compare; underwriting makes the call. Overstating health does not reduce your actual rate—only makes estimates less useful.
Finding the insurer whose guidelines match your health situation typically outweighs chasing the lowest headline rate. Susman Insurance Agency pinpoints insurers welcoming your profile.