Guide
Health classes explained
Which product? Term or permanent, and the job each one does.
Carriers organize term life pricing using rate classes. Classifications differ slightly between insurers, but the structure remains steady: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, then table adjustments for elevated risk. Smokers face their own classification system at higher premiums.
What underwriters look at
Body composition (height and weight), blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, relatives with major illness before 60, driving history, medication history, work and recreational activities, and nicotine exposure. Top-tier classifications require strong findings across nearly everything; Preferred permits moderate deviation; Standard Plus and Standard accept regulated conditions like treated blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Health is self-described: pick Excellent for Preferred Plus, Very good for Preferred, Good for Standard Plus, or Average for Standard. Your quotes correspond to that class; the carrier validates the actual class following underwriting. In doubt? Quote two classes and compare—the application's underwriting determines the final one. Overestimating health doesn't reduce the premium; it just makes your quote less reliable.
Susman Insurance Agency excels at matching you with carriers whose underwriting policies favor your unique situation, which frequently matters more than posted rates.