Guide
Health classes explained
The four rate classes—what they mean and what determines where you fall.
Carriers use rate classes to price term life. The exact names vary, but the structure is the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with table ratings for elevated risk. Tobacco users have their own set of classes at higher cost.
What underwriters look at
Body weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, family history of heart disease or cancer before age 60, driving record, prescriptions, job, hobbies, and tobacco use. The best class requires clean results on nearly everything; Preferred allows a bit more wiggle room; Standard Plus and Standard accept managed conditions like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks for an honest self-assessment: Excellent suggests Preferred Plus, Very good suggests Preferred, Good suggests Standard Plus, and Average suggests Standard. Quotes match your choice, but the carrier confirms the actual class after underwriting. If you are uncertain, quote two classes and compare them; the application will reveal the final class. Claiming better health than you have will not reduce the actual price—only make the estimate wrong.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you find carriers whose guidelines favor your particular health situation, which often matters more than the advertised rate.