Guide
Health classes explained
The four classes Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard: definitions and what determines your tier.
Carriers use rate classes for term pricing. Names differ between companies, but the structure holds: Preferred Plus (Super Preferred, Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, then table ratings for above-standard risk. Tobacco users occupy a separate tier with higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Carriers assess build, BP and cholesterol, family cancer/heart disease before 60, driving record, medications, job, hobbies, and tobacco/nicotine use. Best classes need near-perfect marks; Preferred relaxes slightly; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate controlled conditions like managed hypertension.
How to use the quote tool
When quoting, pick your honest health level: Excellent → Preferred Plus, Very good → Preferred, Good → Standard Plus, Average → Standard. Quotes use that tier; underwriting confirms the actual tier. Unsure? Quote both and compare; the real class emerges during application. Overstating health doesn't reduce your final premium—it just makes the estimate wrong.
Different carriers weight health conditions differently; Susman identifies carriers more favorable to yours—often more valuable than chasing the lowest quote.