Can you purchase eyewear online and use your vision benefits? It’s a question we hear often—and we’ll answer for you here.
First, let’s discuss what vision benefits actually are.
Confusion swirls around the topic of vision insurance
The term “insurance” is used loosely in the world of vision. What you may be calling insurance is actually a plan designed to offer vision benefits to cover some of your costs.
The benefits are likely to apply to:
- Routine preventative eye care including eye exams
- Prescriptive eyewear including eyeglasses and/or contact lenses
Some plans expand the coverage to include:
- Discounts on options such as lens coatings and photochromic lenses
- Reduced rates on elective correction surgery
The point is your vision is not insured in the way your health care plan covers medical bills. Generally, vision plan coverage is limited in scope to specific benefits and discounts in exchange for an annual fee. Co-pays may apply as well.
The fees are often covered by an employer. However, vision benefit programs are offered via professional associations and government programs and can also be purchased directly from a vision “insurance” provider.
How do you take advantage of your vision benefits?
The simple answer is most of the time people with vision benefits get exams and eyewear at “in-network” optometry shops. But that’s not your only option.
EZContacts makes it easy for you to use your benefits for “out of network” purchases. It’s a “best of both worlds” scenario in that you can (1) take advantage of the benefits your plan provides and (2) enjoy the better selection and prices offered online.
The process is simple
- Inquire with EZContacts and we’ll quickly verify your benefits.
- Make your purchase(s) as you normally would.
- EZContacts will submit the claim for you. You need not complete any paperwork.
- You receive a reimbursement check by mail.
EZContacts accepts most vision insurance plans including VSP, Superior, Spectera, EyeMed, Blue Vision, Cigna Vision, Aetna Vision, and Davis Vision.
Do you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)? Learn how to apply your funds to eyewear purchases here.
