Guide
Health classes explained
Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard—what each label means and which factors move you across these tiers.
Carriers set term life prices according to rate class. Different companies use slightly different names, but the hierarchy stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, followed by rated classes for higher-risk applications. A separate set of rate classes applies to tobacco users, with costs approximately double.
What underwriters look at
Build (height and weight), blood pressure and lipid panel results, family history of early heart disease or cancer, driving record, medication history, job type and recreational activities, and tobacco or nicotine products. Getting to the best class requires clear results across almost every category. Preferred class allows more flexibility. Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed chronic conditions like controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
The health question asks you to self-report honestly: Excellent health maps to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quotes show rates for the class you pick; the carrier validates the final class during underwriting. When in doubt between two classes, you can pull quotes for both and compare, then let the underwriting process settle the matter. Overstating your health does not lower the final premium; it only makes your estimate less precise.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you navigate which carriers have favorable guidelines for your specific situation, and this frequently proves more valuable than focusing on headline pricing.