Guide
Health classes explained
An explanation of each health rating level and which factors determine which group you fall into.
Insurance companies organize term pricing into rate class tiers. The terminology shifts between carriers, but the scale stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes labeled Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, and then table ratings for above-average risk. Tobacco and nicotine users fall into a separate tier structure with higher pricing.
What underwriters look at
Factors include body weight, blood pressure and lipid levels, family heart or cancer history before age 60, driving history, medications you take, job and leisure activities, and nicotine/tobacco. Preferred Plus requires favorable findings across the board; Preferred is slightly more flexible; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed health issues like controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health segment asks you to describe your state truthfully: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus and Average to Standard. Quotes are based on that classification; the insurer validates and may adjust the final tier after underwriting. When in doubt, obtain quotes for two tiers and see the difference; the application will establish the actual class. Overstating your health does not reduce pricing—it just makes your estimate less reliable.
Susman Insurance Agency can guide you toward insurers with more lenient policies for your particular health circumstances, an advantage that often outweighs base pricing.