Guide
Health classes explained
How Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard rate classes work and what determines which tier you qualify for.
The term insurance market uses rate class tiers for pricing. Labels shift slightly between companies, yet the framework stays uniform: Preferred Plus (occasionally called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with additional table ratings layered on for higher risk. Tobacco use means a separate price scale, at higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Your body composition (height and weight), blood pressure and lipid counts, ancestors' heart or cancer diagnoses before age 60, motor vehicle history, medication records, work and leisure activities, and use of tobacco or nicotine products. Top-tier classification demands favorable findings in almost every area; Preferred eases standards slightly; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate regulated health issues like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Be truthful when ranking your health: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. Quotes use that tier; carriers finalize the ranking following underwriting evaluation. Uncertain about your category? Try quotes for two tiers and examine the gap, then permit the underwriting process to make the final call. Gaming a higher tier won't lower your actual costs—it only throws off your estimate.
Our experts at Susman Insurance Agency can help you locate carriers with policies better suited to your particular health profile, which typically outweighs the published starting rates.