Rating is based on Kansas City Life Insurance Company's superior capitalization, high-quality investments, conservative management, and advantageous market position. According to Standard and Poor's, "Insurers rated A+ offer good financial security, but capacity to meet Policyholder obligations is somewhat susceptible to adverse economic and underwriting conditions." S&P's 18 claims-paying ability ratings range from AAA (Superior) to BBB (Adequate).

Rating is based on Kansas City Life Insurance Company's relative financial strength and operation performance. According to Best, "A (Excellent) is assigned to companies which, in our opinon, have demonstrated excellent overall performance when compared to the standards established by A.M. Best Company. A (Excellent) companies have a strong ablility to meet their obligations to Policyowners over a long period of time." There are 15 ratings from A.M. Best, ranging from A++ (Superior) to F (In Liquidation).