Guide
Health classes explained
What rate classes mean, how they're named, what makes the difference between them, and how to move into a better category.
Each carrier prices term using rate classes. While terminology shifts between companies, the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes called Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, with table ratings for applicants with higher risk. There's also a separate set of classes for tobacco users, charged at higher rates.
What underwriters look at
Body measurements and proportions, blood pressure and lipid levels, whether close family members had heart attacks or cancer early in life, your driving record, any prescription medications you've taken, what your job is and what hobbies you pursue, and cigarette or nicotine use. The top rate classes need strong numbers across virtually everything; Preferred lets you have one or two minor issues; Standard Plus and Standard accept managed health conditions like controlled high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When we ask about your health, be truthful: Excellent tracks to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Your quotes reflect your chosen class, though the carrier makes the final determination after they review your medical information. It's fine to request quotes at two different classes to see the difference, or let the application reveal the actual class. Picking a class that sounds optimistic won't get you a better rate; it just makes your quote less accurate.
Susman Insurance Agency knows which carriers have underwriting that's most favorable for specific situations, and that connection often counts for more than just looking at headline pricing.