Guide
Health classes explained
What the four main rate classes are called, what each one means, and which factors determine which class you fall into.
Life insurance costs are determined by rate class. While company names differ slightly, the tier structure is standard: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with additional table ratings for above-average risk. People using tobacco occupy a separate class system at elevated rates.
What underwriters look at
The carriers look at your body measurements, blood pressure and cholesterol, whether heart disease or cancer runs in your family before age 60, your driving and prescription history, your job and pastimes, and any tobacco or nicotine use. The top class demands clean results on almost everything; Preferred allows minor issues; Standard Plus and Standard are designed for people managing things like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When the quote form asks about your health, answer truthfully: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus, and Average with Standard. The quote reflects that assumption, though the carrier sets the actual class after underwriting. If you are uncertain, request quotes for two different classes to compare, then let your application reveal the truth. Overstating your health will not reduce your final cost—it will just make this estimate inaccurate.
Susman Insurance Agency can help you find carriers whose underwriting rules are more flexible for your situation, which often makes a bigger difference than chasing the lowest advertised rate.