What is the non-forfeiture option that provides coverage for the longest duration?

The non-forfeiture option that provides coverage for the longest duration is the reduced paid-up option. When a policyholder selects this option, the accumulated cash value of a whole life insurance policy is used to purchase a reduced amount of paid-up insurance. This means that the policy effectively remains in force without requiring additional premium payments, but it provides a smaller face value than the original policy.

Because the policy remains active for a more extended period compared to other options, such as the extended term option, it is often favored by individuals who wish to maintain some level of life insurance protection without further contributions. The reduced paid-up option allows the insured to keep the insurance coverage without lapsing, maximizing the benefits of the cash value at the point of policy cessation.

In contrast, other choices, like the extended term option, convert the policy's cash value into a term insurance policy, which will eventually expire once the term ends, thus providing coverage for a limited time compared to a reduced paid-up policy. Therefore, the reduced paid-up option is the best choice for those wanting longest-standing protection using their policy’s cash value.