Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard: what the labels mean and what changes your classification.
Insurance companies organize term rates by health classification. The exact words shift by carrier, but the structure is consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with additional levels for heightened hazard. Tobacco users have their own tiers at higher premiums.
What underwriters look at
Build (weight and height), blood pressure and lipids, family history of heart problems or tumors before age 60, driving history, medication use, career and hobbies, and nicotine or tobacco use. The best tier requires good marks on almost everything; Preferred allows some deviation; Standard Plus and Standard allow controlled issues like blood pressure medication.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks you to characterize your health truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Quotes are based on your class; the insurer confirms the class after reviewing your details. If you're undecided, quote both classes and review the difference, then let the application result reflect reality. Overstating health does not reduce your final cost; it just makes the initial estimate less accurate.
Susman Insurance Agency has worked with carriers whose guidelines are more favorable for particular situations, which frequently makes a bigger difference than the advertised price.