Guide
Health classes explained
What the categories Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard represent and how carriers move applicants between them.
Insurance carriers set their pricing using rate class. Terminology differs between companies, but the framework is the same: Preferred Plus (sometimes marketed as Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with table ratings assigned to above-standard applicants. Tobacco users occupy a separate pricing ladder with higher rates.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight relative to each other, blood pressure and cholesterol readings, family disease history before age 60 (especially heart disease or cancer), driving history, medication history, line of work and recreational activities, and any nicotine or tobacco use. Getting the best tier requires strong results nearly across the board; Preferred permits minor variations; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate managed conditions like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Answer the health question truthfully: Excellent health aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Quotes reflect the selected tier; the carrier determines the final tier post-underwriting. If uncertain, request quotes for two different tiers and compare; the application will verify the actual tier. Picking a more optimistic health tier does not lower your final cost—it only makes the estimate less dependable.
Susman Insurance Agency can identify carriers with more flexible standards for your particular health situation, and that usually affects your rate more than the publicly quoted rates.