These are price groups. Preferred groups pay the least, standard pays more, and table ratings pay more than standard because of bigger health risks.
After underwriting, the insurer puts you in a class. It looks at your health, weight, family history, hobbies and job.
Preferred Plus is the best class with the lowest price. Then come Preferred, Standard Plus and Standard.
Table ratings are for more serious health issues. Policygenius says each table step usually adds 25% to the Standard price. Table 1 is 25% more, and Table 10 is 250% more.
Tobacco users get their own classes. Policygenius says these can cost up to three times more than nonsmoker classes.
Each insurer sets its own rules. The same person can get a different class at a different company.
- Preferred Plus
- Preferred
- Standard Plus
- Standard
- Table 1 to Table 10
More questions
How long do I need to quit smoking?
Most insurers want at least one year to give nonsmoker rates. For the best class, they often want five years.
Should I compare quotes?
Yes. Each company scores you its own way, so prices can vary a lot.
Words to know
- Table rating
- An extra charge for people the company sees as higher risk. Policies can use a table rating, a flat extra, or both.
- Underwriting
- How a company decides whether to sell you a policy and what to charge. It may include a medical exam and questions about your health, job, and habits.
