When every penny counts: 6 tips to get more from your vision insurance

Don’t let caring for your eyes take a backseat when budgets are tight. DeltaVision^®  has you and your family covered with access to a nationwide network of eye doctors and low out-of-pocket costs for the savings you deserve.

Here are some tips to make your vision plan work for you and your budget: 

1. Know your benefits

The first step to making the most of your vision insurance is understanding exactly what your plan covers. Review your policy so you know the details about eye exams, frame allowances, lens options, contact lens benefits, copays, and any limits or frequency restrictions. Contact your insurance provider or your HR department if you need clarification; this helps avoid surprises when scheduling appointments or shopping for eyewear.

2. Stay in-network and find a doctor near you

You’ll save the most money and get the best benefit by visiting in-network eye doctors and optical shops. Out-of-network care usually brings higher out-of-pocket charges and reduced reimbursements, so double-check provider directories before booking an appointment or making eyewear purchases.

DeltaVision^® members can take full advantage of their vision benefits by visiting a VSP Premier Edge^TM location. Available to all members at no extra cost, you’ll get exclusive rebates, advanced eye care technology, a worry-free eyewear guarantee, and more when you visit a Premier Edge location.

3. Eye care is healthcare. Get your annual eye exam

Did you know an eye doctor can be the first to identify signs of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure? An eye exam can help detect early signs of more than 270 health conditions. That’s why, even if you have 20/20 vision, it’s important to see your eye doctor each year for an eye exam.

4. Choose from a wide selection of stylish frames and lenses

Plans usually include a yearly allowance toward new frames, lenses, or contact lenses. Review your insurance’s coverage before shopping for glasses or contacts—sometimes it covers special lens features like progressive lenses, blue light filtering, or anti-reflective coatings. If you don’t use these allowances, you’ll lose them at the end of your benefit year.

• Consider upgrading your frame style or lens technology if those costs are partially covered.​

• Stock up on contacts before the end of the year.​

• Prescription sunglasses are often covered and protect your eyes from UV rays year-round.

Using your DeltaVision^®  benefits makes finding the right eyewear for your look and your pocketbook easy. Choose a Featured Frame Brand when shopping for new frames to get an extra $20 to spend in addition to your frame allowance. Or get an extra $40 to spend on frames when you choose a select Featured Frame Brand.

5. Use your FSA or HSA dollars

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), use these funds for out-of-pocket vision care expenses before the year ends. Eligible expenses include eye exams, eyewear, contacts, and vision-related treatments, but FSA funds often follow a “use it or lose it” rule.

6. Take advantage of exclusive member extras

Many vision providers partner with insurers to offer member-only discounts on frames, lenses, and services not fully covered by insurance. Stack these promotional savings with your benefit allowance for the best deal.

With VSP Exclusive Member Extras, DeltaVision^® members can save on products and services for your overall health and wellness! Save on glasses and contact lens discounts, LASIK, tickets to your favorite sporting or theater events, vacation travel, hearing aids, nutrition, exercise programs, and financial services.