Guide
Health classes explained
Tiers in carrier pricing: Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard—what each level means and what determines who fits where.
Carriers organize term life by rate class. Names differ slightly, but the hierarchy stays the same: Preferred Plus (Super Preferred, Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, then Standard and surcharges for higher risk. Tobacco users occupy parallel classes at higher rates.
What underwriters look at
Height/weight ratio, blood pressure, cholesterol, family cancer or heart disease before 60, driving history, medications taken, job and hobbies, and tobacco or nicotine. Top tier demands near-perfect scores across all; Preferred allows minor gaps; Standard Plus and Standard allow managed conditions like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question: be truthful. Excellent → Preferred Plus, Very good → Preferred, Good → Standard Plus, Average → Standard. Quotes reflect your chosen level; the carrier's underwriting confirms it. Unsure? Quote two levels and compare—let underwriting decide. Overstating health doesn't lower your quote, just makes it less accurate.
Susman Insurance Agency knows which carriers' underwriting is most favorable for your specific situation, often mattering more than the cheapest rate.