Vision Insurance

Coverage for eye exams, glasses, contacts, and vision correction.

Typical cost: $120 – $250 per year

What Is Vision Insurance?

Vision insurance reduces the cost of routine eye care, prescription eyewear, and sometimes corrective surgery. While health insurance may cover eye injuries and diseases, it typically doesn't cover routine vision care.

What's Covered

Standard plans cover an annual eye exam, new prescription glasses or contacts each year, and lens enhancements at discounted rates. Many plans offer 10-20% off LASIK through partner providers.

Is It Worth It?

For glasses or contact wearers getting annual exams, vision insurance typically saves $100-$200 per year. Families with children who need glasses see the greatest benefit.

What's covered

Annual Eye Exam

Comprehensive eye examination each year with a small copayment of $10-$25.

Eyeglass Lenses

New prescription lenses once per year including single-vision, bifocal, or progressive.

Frames Allowance

Annual allowance of $130-$200 toward new eyeglass frames.

Contact Lenses

Contact lens fitting and purchase allowance as an alternative to glasses.

Lens Enhancements

Discounts on anti-reflective coating, scratch resistance, and blue-light filtering.

LASIK Discounts

10-20% discounts on laser vision correction through participating providers.

Pros and cons

Advantages

  • Low premiums—often $10-$20 per month
  • Annual exams detect eye diseases and conditions like diabetes early
  • Frame and lens allowances offset prescription eyewear costs
  • LASIK discounts can save hundreds on surgery
  • Employer plans often available at very low cost

Considerations

  • Allowances may not cover designer frames
  • Limited to one pair of glasses or contacts per year
  • Out-of-network coverage is minimal
  • Individuals without corrective needs see little benefit

Frequently asked questions

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