What is a non forfeiture option on long term care policy?

A nonforfeiture provision ensures that the policyholder will receive a pro rata benefit if the policy lapses due to either cancellation by the policyholder or failure to pay premium(s). Such a provision may become effective after the policy has been in force for a certain period of time, possibly three years; and typically will be equal to the lesser of the premiums paid, a specified percentage of premiums paid (which could range from 20 percent to 100 percent), or the cash surrender value of the policy.