Guide
Health classes explained
Rating tiers—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard—what they represent and how movement between them works.
Carriers use rate classifications for pricing. Company names shift, yet the framework stays constant: Preferred Plus (also named Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, followed by custom risk pricing for elevated-risk profiles. Tobacco and nicotine consumers occupy distinct classifications at elevated premiums.
What underwriters look at
Body measurements and weight proportions, cholesterol and blood pressure numbers, parents' serious illnesses before 60, vehicle records, prescription history, work and hobbies, smoking or nicotine consumption. Top ratings require excellent results across nearly everything; Preferred accommodates some variation; Standard Plus and Standard cover regulated issues including managed blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
Self-assess truthfully using health categories: Excellent corresponds with Preferred Plus, Very good with Preferred, Good with Standard Plus and Average with Standard. Quotes will use that bracket; underwriting sets the actual classification post-review. When uncertain, request quotes from both categories for comparison; the application determines your real rating. Overstating health doesn't improve your final rate—just decreases the estimate's precision.
Susman Insurance Agency identifies carriers whose underwriting philosophy aligns with your profile, which frequently matters more than comparing base rates.