Clear Vision, Clear Savings: Your Guide to Affordable Eyewear

We saw first hand how expensive eye care is nowadays. But clear vision is essential for a healthy and productive life! That's why we're sharing effective strategies to save money on your eye exams and glasses.

Our recent experience found significant cost variations between traditional optometrists and online retailers

Here's a real-world premium example that includes a rimless frame, progressive lenses, 1.67 Index Super Thin Lens (V-Pro Digital Free Form), Scratch Resistant Coating, UV Protective Coating, Premium Anti-Reflective Coating, Photochromic: Transitions XTRACTIVE Gray, Super Hydrophobic upgrade, and Blue Light Lenses upgrade.

Local Optometrist

- No insurance: $1210

- With insurance: $732

Online Example

- No insurance & no coupon: $790

- With insurance & coupon code: $449

- With Insurance: $302

Note: You can find basic frames and single-vision lenses for as low as $20-$60. For a more comprehensive package including progressive lenses and anti-reflective coating, you might pay around $100-$200.

SAVING STRATEGIES

1. Compare Online Retailers: Explore online retailers like GlassesUSA, Zenni Optical, Warby Parker, and others. These often offer competitive prices on frames and lenses.

2. Consider Generic Frames: Designer frames can significantly inflate the cost. Explore stylish and affordable generic options.

3. Prioritize Essential Features: While features like blue-light filtering and photochromic lenses offer benefits, focus on essential needs like scratch-resistant coatings and UV protection first.

4. Seek Coupon Codes: Many online retailers offer seasonal or promotional discounts. Look for coupon codes before finalizing your purchase.

5. Maximize Insurance Coverage: Understand your vision insurance plan and utilize its benefits for eye exams and glasses.

6. Health Saving Account: Pay with your tax advantaged HSA, if you have one.

IMPORTANT

Having a yearly examination with a certified eye doctor is essential for preserving good eyesight. Ask for your prescription including the pupil distance (PD) numbers for both the left and right eyes to have complete control over your eyewear purchases. Legally, you cannot be refused services for deciding to buy eyewear anywhere you prefer.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

- EyeCare America: Provides free or low-cost eye exams and glasses to qualified individuals. (https://www.aao.org/eyecare-america)

- Lions Club International: Offers various vision programs, including free eye exams and glasses for children and seniors. (https://www.lionsclubs.org/en)

- VisionServe Alliance: Provides vision rehabilitation services, including low-vision devices and training. (https://visionservealliance.org)

- National Federation of the Blind: Advocates for the rights of people who are blind or visually impaired and offers various programs and resources. (https://nfb.org)