Guide
Health classes explained
The four-tier rating hierarchy: what each class means and the factors that determine your placement.
Insurance firms differentiate pricing using health ratings. Terminology varies by provider, but the structure is universal: Preferred Plus (occasionally labeled Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard, with extra charges for higher dangers. Smokers or nicotine consumers fall into corresponding categories at higher fees.
What underwriters look at
Physical condition (weight relative to height), blood pressure and cholesterol profiles, family medical history (heart disease or malignancies prior to age 60), traffic record, prescription medications, professional and recreational pursuits, and smoking or nicotine products. Reaching the best classes requires favorable findings across nearly every component; Preferred accommodates minor blemishes; Standard Plus and Standard permit managed illnesses like treated high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
In the quote tool, the health question requests self-assessment: Excellent matches Preferred Plus, Very good matches Preferred, Good matches Standard Plus, and Average matches Standard. Quotes reflect that classification; the carrier sets the definitive classification during underwriting. When uncertain, get quotes for multiple classes to evaluate trade-offs, then allow the application to confirm. Overstating health doesn't reduce approved premiums; it only produces inaccurate quotes.
Susman Insurance Agency works to match you with carriers whose underwriting is most favorable for your particular circumstances, which typically outweighs looking at quoted rates alone.