Guide
Health classes explained
What the four main brackets—Preferred Plus, Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard—represent and which factors determine where you fit.
Insurers set rates using rate class groupings. Though companies use slightly different titles, the structure stays consistent: Preferred Plus (sometimes Super Preferred or Preferred Elite), Preferred, Standard Plus, and Standard, then special rates for elevated risk. Smokers get their own rating ladder at higher costs.
What underwriters look at
Height and weight proportions, blood sugar and lipid numbers, family history of early heart or cancer deaths, motor vehicle record, past prescriptions, type of work and pastimes, and current or recent tobacco. A top-tier classification requires excellent marks on virtually every measure; the middle-upper tier allows some flexibility; the bottom tiers accommodate managed health situations such as blood pressure controlled with medication.
How to use the quote tool
The health question requests honest self-assessment: Excellent aligns to Preferred Plus, Very good to Preferred, Good to Standard Plus, and Average to Standard. Quotes match that classification; the insurer verifies after underwriting starts. Uncertain of your category? Quote multiple tiers, compare them, and let the application process determine the final level. Overstating your health won't reduce the ultimate premium—it just makes the initial estimate inaccurate.
Carriers have different comfort levels with various health situations. Susman Insurance Agency specializes in finding insurers whose underwriting fits your particular circumstances, which often has a bigger effect on your rate than the initial quote.