Guide
Health classes explained
The four primary rate classes—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—defined and what controls your placement in each.
Insurers set term life premiums based on rate classification. Terminology varies between companies, but the structure is universal: Preferred Plus (at times called Super Preferred or Best Preferred), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, followed by extra fees for higher-than-standard situations. Tobacco consumers have a separate system at elevated premiums.
What underwriters look at
Build metrics (height and weight), circulatory readings and lipid values, ancestor health history (especially heart disease or malignancy before turning 60), accident history, pharmacy data, career and leisure pursuits, and any cigarette or nicotine consumption. Peak ratings demand clean findings across most elements; Preferred permits one or two minor issues; Standard Plus and Standard welcome controlled illnesses like managed high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When stating health, use accurate self-assessment: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Your estimate reflects that tier; the carrier establishes the actual rating through underwriting. Uncertain? Quote two rating levels and look at both, then allow underwriting to decide. Using a higher rating does not decrease what you will actually pay; it only makes the initial quote less reliable.
Karl Susman Insurance can match carriers with guidelines suited to your health background, which frequently has more impact than the base rate you see.