Probably one of the most common surprises and points of contention in life insurance underwriting is when, even though your health is perfect, your life insurance quote changes after you apply because your height and weight (build) weren’t exactly what they thought they were. For that reason, rather than telling your independent insurance agent what you think your height and weight might be, step gently on those scales, get a grip on reality, and an accurate quote up front.

Here is a sample from a middle of the road company. These are their build guidelines for their best rate. Honestly most companies are within a few pounds of this. Some are stricter and some more lenient, but count on them to adhere to it especially if you want their best rate class.

This post is somewhat dated. Life insurance underwriting is changing and evolving continually. For more updated information check out some of the key word links. If you have a specific question or topic you need information for do a search. If you don’t find the answers you need contact me and we’ll make sure you get the information that is important to you.

Male Preferred Plus
Build Chart
Height PPNT
5′ 0″ 144
5′ 1″ 148
5′ 2″ 153
5′ 3″ 158
5′ 4″ 163
5′ 5″ 168
5′ 6″ 174
5′ 7″ 179
5′ 8″ 185
5′ 9″ 190
5′ 10″ 196
5′ 11″ 201
6′ 0″ 207
6′ 1″ 213
6′ 2″ 219
6′ 3″ 225
6′ 4″ 230
6′ 5″ 237
6′ 6″ 243
6′ 7″ 249
6′ 8″ 256
6′ 9″ 262
6′ 10″ 268
6′ 11″ 276
Female Preferred Plus
Build Chart
Height PPNT
5′ 0″ 135
5′ 1″ 138
5′ 2″ 140
5′ 3″ 143
5′ 4″ 145
5′ 5″ 148
5′ 6″ 150
5′ 7″ 155
5′ 8″ 160
5′ 9″ 165
5′ 10″ 170
5′ 11″ 175
6′ 0″ 180
6′ 1″ 184
6′ 2″ 188
6′ 3″ 193
6′ 4″ 197
6′ 5″ 201
6′ 6″ 205
6′ 7″ 209
6′ 8″ 214
6′ 9″ 218
6′ 10″ 222
6′ 11″ 226