Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard: their definitions, and which factors move applicants between tiers.
Underwriters organize term life prices using rate class categories. While names shift between companies, the progression stays the same: Preferred Plus (occasionally Superlative Preferred or Preferred Optimal), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, plus extra levels for increased risk. Those who smoke have separate rate grades at elevated costs.
What underwriters look at
Weight-to-height proportions, blood pressure and lipid profile, parental or close family history of cardiac or malignant disease occurring before age 60, motor vehicle history, medication record, job responsibilities and leisure activities, and use of cigarettes or nicotine derivatives. Top-tier placement demands favorable results on virtually every measure; Preferred allows some variance; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed health conditions such as medicated blood pressure control.
How to use the quote tool
The health self-assessment requires candid responses: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Pricing reflects that tier; underwriting finalizes your tier following investigation. Try quoting two different tiers if you're uncertain, then see the application confirm. Overstating your health doesn't cut the final rate; it just reduces estimate reliability.
If you have particular health issues, Susman Insurance Agency knows which carriers apply more favorable underwriting, which is frequently a better factor than the posted premium.