What Do Vision Benefits Typically Cover?

Whether you’re new to vision insurance or reviewing your current plan, you might be wondering what’s actually included — and how to get the most from your coverage.

This guide breaks down what most vision insurance plans offer, including what’s covered for eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and more. We’ll also show how DeltaVision®, in partnership with VSP, provides added value through extensive networks, generous allowances, and extra savings.

What do vision benefits usually cover?

Vision insurance typically helps reduce your costs on:

• Annual eye exams

• Prescription glasses (frames and lenses)

• Contact lenses

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  Lens enhancements (like anti-glare or progressive lenses)

• Discounts on extra pairs of eyewear

• Coverage at in-network and out-of-network providers

Most plans also include coverage for preventive care, which can detect early signs of eye disease, and even other health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Is an eye exam covered by vision insurance?

Yes! Most vision plans include one comprehensive eye exam every 12 months. The exam will usually only cost you a small copay. Vision insurance focuses on wellness benefits for healthy eyes, including comprehensive exams, while medical insurance covers eye conditions and diseases that require a physician's treatment. 

Are glasses covered by vision insurance?

Most vision plans offer a frame allowance and lens coverage, often with a small copay.

Depending on the plan you choose, you may get an allowance every 12 or 24 months. For example, a plan might offer a $150 allowance for frames, so if you pick a pair that costs $175, you only pay the remaining $25.

Sometimes, you may get a little more depending on which frames you choose. Some plans offer you featured brands, where the allowance may increase to cover more of it.

Your lenses will usually be covered as well, with a copay.

Are lens enhancements included?

Some standard enhancements will be covered, while many others will be discounted. 

Examples of lens enhancements that may fall into these categories are:

• Polycarbonate lenses for children

• Standard progressive lenses

• Standard anti-reflective coating

• Premium lens upgrades (light-reactive, high index, etc.)

Are contact lenses covered by vision insurance?

Yes, contact lenses are covered by vision benefits. Most vision plans let you choose between contacts or glasses each year.

Just like with your glasses, you will most likely get an allowance to cover your contacts. If you choose contacts one year, you can still switch to glasses the next!

How much can I save with vision insurance?

Vision benefits are designed to provide significant value for a low monthly premium. While the specific savings depends on your plan, here's a general breakdown of how vision insurance helps reduce your costs.

1. Lowering the Cost of Routine Eye Exams

   A routine eye exam without insurance can cost anywhere from $50 to over $250, with an average of around $100. With vision insurance, you typically pay a small, fixed copay (often between $10 and $40) for an annual exam. This is a significant saving right off the bat, making it more affordable to get regular checkups that are crucial for maintaining your eye health and catching potential problems early.

2. Reducing the Price of Eyewear
   
   This is often where vision insurance provides the most value. Vision plans typically cover a portion of the cost for prescription glasses (frames and lenses) or contact lenses. Without insurance, the cost of a complete pair of glasses can range from $200 to over $400, depending on the frames and lenses you choose. By providing allowances and discounts, vision insurance drastically cuts down on this out-of-pocket expense.

3. Making Eye Care More Accessible
   
   The financial barrier of eye care can sometimes lead people to skip their annual exams or to wear outdated prescriptions. By making services more affordable, vision insurance encourages regular visits to the eye doctor. This isn't just about saving money on glasses; it's also about:

   1. Early Detection: Routine eye exams can detect early signs of serious eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.

   2. Overall Health: An eye exam can even reveal symptoms of other health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, allowing for earlier treatment.

   By helping you stay on top of your overall health, vision insurance can save you money on future medical costs.

4. Other Potential Savings
   
   Depending on your specific plan, you might also find savings on:

   1. Laser Vision Correction: Some plans offer discounts on elective procedures like LASIK.

   2. Discounts: Plans also offer discounts on lens enhancements, such as anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, or progressive lenses. Without insurance, these can add up quickly.

Is vision insurance worth it for me?

To determine if vision insurance is a smart financial choice for you, compare the annual cost of the premiums to what you would pay out-of-pocket without it.

• Premiums: Vision insurance is generally affordable, with monthly premiums often ranging from $5 to $30.

• Out-of-Pocket Costs: Calculate the cost of an eye exam and a pair of glasses or contacts without insurance.

For many people, especially those who require an updated prescription or new glasses/contacts every year, the savings from the insurance benefits will outweigh the cost of the premiums. If you have an employer-sponsored plan, the savings can be even greater, as premiums are often deducted from your paycheck before taxes.

Can I see any eye doctor, or do I have to stay in network?

Most plans offer in-network and out-of-network options — but in-network providers give you the best value.

With DeltaVision® (in partnership with VSP), you get access to one of the largest networks of eye doctors nationwide.

If you go out of network, DeltaVision® still offers reimbursement:

• Up to $45 for an exam

• Up to $70 for frames

• Up to $105 for contacts

How is DeltaVision® different from other vision plans?

DeltaVision® combines Delta Dental’s trusted service with VSP’s national network and exclusive discounts — giving you:

• One of the largest selections of eye care providers in the country

• Designer frames and lens upgrades at discounted prices

• Seamless coverage that fits easily alongside your dental and medical benefits

• You’ll also get wellness-focused care, not just vision correction, with exams designed to detect early signs of other health issues.

Bottom Line: Vision insurance helps you save and stay healthy

With regular eye exams and savings on glasses or contacts, vision insurance is an affordable way to protect your eye health and your wallet.

If you’re considering coverage, a plan like DeltaVision® offers clear value, flexibility, and peace of mind through one of the most trusted networks in the country.