Guide
Health classes explained
The definitions behind underwriting tier labels, and what criteria might shift your classification.
Insurance companies use rate classes to price term products. Class names differ between companies but follow a consistent scale: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, followed by additional pricing for above-standard risk. Those using tobacco or nicotine face a separate rate tier structure with higher premiums.
What underwriters look at
Body composition, blood work numbers (pressure, cholesterol), ancestry with early cardiac or cancer deaths before age 60, motor vehicle history, medication background, employment type and hazards, recreational pursuits, and smoking or vaping status. Top classifications require excellent results across virtually all factors; second tier permits slight variations; third and fourth tiers allow managed health conditions including controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health section asks you to give an accurate picture of your status: Excellent becomes Preferred Plus, Very good becomes Preferred, Good becomes Standard Plus, and Average becomes Standard. Your quoted rates correspond to that tier; later underwriting may confirm or adjust. Want a second opinion? Try requesting quotes at two different health levels to see the range, then let your application determine the actual rate.
Susman Insurance Agency has access to carrier-specific data that helps identify which companies are most flexible and approving for different health situations. That knowledge often matters more than the stated premium.