Guide
Health classes explained
How Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard categories work and what factors move you from one to another.
Underwriters categorize term life using rate classes. Terms vary by company but the ranking stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes labeled Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, then special ratings for elevated risk. Smokers fall into a separate, more expensive set.
What underwriters look at
Physical characteristics (height, weight), cholesterol and blood pressure readings, whether heart disease or cancer runs in your family before you reach sixty, your driving background, what medications you take, your job and hobbies, and any tobacco or nicotine consumption. Getting the very best class requires excellent numbers nearly across the board; Preferred gives some wiggle room; Standard Plus and Standard accept conditions that are being treated well, like blood pressure under medication.
How to use the quote tool
When the form asks about your health, give a truthful picture: Excellent corresponds with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Fair with Standard. Your quotes reflect that assumption, though underwriting confirms the real class later. Not sure which fits? Quote yourself in two categories and compare, then let underwriting settle it. Picking a flattering health bracket won't reduce your premium—it just makes the estimate wrong.
Susman Insurance Agency knows which carriers have gentler requirements for particular medical conditions, and that often makes a bigger difference than the posted rate.