Guide
Health classes explained
What each rate tier is called, how they differ, and which health factors determine where you land.
Term life is priced according to rate class. While terminology differs slightly between carriers, the hierarchy stays the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with additional ratings for higher risks. Tobacco or nicotine users sit in a separate set of classes with increased rates.
What underwriters look at
Frame (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol readings, family illnesses like early heart disease or cancer, past traffic violations, medications you take, your job and pastimes, and any tobacco or nicotine product use. Preferred Plus requires solid numbers nearly across the board; Preferred allows some variation; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed medical issues such as controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When rating your health, be truthful: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Your quotes are built on that classification; the carrier reviews and confirms after underwriting. If you're torn between two, quote each and see the difference, then allow the full application to settle it. Overstating your health won't cut your final rate; it just skews your estimate.
If a particular medical situation affects your search, Susman Insurance Agency can point you toward carriers with more flexibility on that issue—sometimes that matters as much as the advertised rate.