Guide
Health classes explained
The four tiers—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—explained, including what determines movement between levels.
Term life premiums follow rate tiers established by carriers. Labels differ slightly across companies, but the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Top Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, followed by extra charges for elevated hazard. Smokers or nicotine users face separate, higher classifications.
What underwriters look at
Physical measurements (height/weight), blood pressure and lipid numbers, family medical history (particularly heart disease or cancer occurring before age 60), driving history, medication list, job type and pastimes, and any tobacco or nicotine consumption. Optimal classification demands favorable results in virtually every dimension; Preferred permits slightly more flexibility; Standard Plus and Standard accommodate regulated issues like controlled blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Be truthful when answering the health question: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very Good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Fair to Standard. Pricing depends on the tier you choose; carriers finalize your tier following underwriting. Unsure? Run quotes for two tiers and contrast them, letting underwriting make the determination. Selecting a higher tier won't lower the premium—it only makes the calculation less precise.
Susman Insurance Agency specializes in identifying carriers whose underwriting criteria work favorably for your particular medical situation—this frequently outweighs comparing only published rates.