Guide
Health classes explained
The four tiers: Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard—how they differ and what factors move applicants between categories.
Carriers establish pricing using rate class tiers. While naming differs slightly, the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, then separate tiers for elevated risk. Smokers and tobacco users have a separate pricing ladder at increased rates.
What underwriters look at
Measurements include weight-to-height proportions, blood pressure readings and cholesterol values, family heart disease or cancer history before age 60, vehicle driving record, medications taken, work and leisure pursuits, and use of tobacco or nicotine products. Preferred Plus demands excellent results across virtually all categories; Preferred accepts slightly more variation; Standard Plus and Standard allow some controlled medical conditions like managed hypertension.
How to use the quote tool
On the health question, report accurately how you see yourself: Excellent aligns with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Your quote is based on that classification; the actual classification is confirmed during underwriting. When uncertain, run quotes at two different levels and examine the results before deciding; let the application determine your class. Selecting a category higher than accurate does not lower your actual cost—it only makes the estimate unreliable.
Susman Insurance Agency has knowledge about which carriers use more favorable underwriting for certain health situations, which often matters more than the base quote price.