Guide
Health classes explained
Rate classes explained: what Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard mean, and what determines which one you qualify for.
Insurance carriers organize pricing using rate classes. The names are slightly different among carriers, but the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (some call it Super Preferred or Preferred Best), Preferred, Standard Plus, Standard, and table ratings for applicants with higher risk. Tobacco users are in their own parallel structure with higher rates.
What underwriters look at
The factors: body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, whether close relatives had heart disease or cancer before age 60, your driving history, medications you take, your job and pastimes, and tobacco or nicotine use. Top rates require nearly everything to check out cleanly. Preferred allows a few more variations; Standard Plus and Standard accept controlled conditions like managed high blood pressure.
How to use the quote tool
When the tool asks how you'd describe your health, match it to the classes: Excellent corresponds to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, Average to Standard. Your quotes will reflect your selection, and the carrier will verify it later. If you're torn between two answers, quote both and compare—the application will settle it. Being generous with your self-assessment won't improve your final premium; it just makes the quote less realistic.
Susman Insurance Agency can help match you with carriers known for favorable rates on your particular health situation, which can matter more than comparing the lowest advertised prices.