From school vision screenings to age-related eye conditions, the need for clear, healthy vision affects people of all ages. But many families, professionals, and retirees don’t realize that their benefit plans include vision coverage that expires at the end of the calendar year.
If you’ve been putting off your eye exam or planning to upgrade your eyeglasses, now’s the time to act. At Arlington Vision Source, we offer comprehensive vision services for every member of the family, including advanced products and services like blue light protection, scleral lenses, and dry eye care. And yes, your insurance plan might help cover it.
What Does Vision Insurance Actually Cover?
Many patients are surprised to learn how much their vision insurance plan can help with, if they know how to use it. Typical vision insurance plans cover:
- Annual comprehensive eye exams
- Prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Lens upgrades, like anti-glare or transition coatings
- Allowance toward designer frames
- Discounts on second pairs or sunglasses
At Arlington Vision Source, we also help patients find in-network providers, navigate plan options, and understand the cost of services versus what your plan pays. Whether you’re with Superior Vision, EyeMed, or VSP, our experienced team will explain your plan benefits and make sure you get the most out of them before they disappear.
How Expiring Benefits Affect Your Wallet and Your Vision
Here’s the truth: vision coverage doesn't roll over. If you don’t use your annual benefits, they’re gone — and you’re leaving money on the table.
That matters for families with vision insurance for children, who may need new glasses as prescriptions shift with age. It matters for working professionals, who are spending more hours on screens and feeling the effects of digital eyestrain. And it matters for older adults, who may be managing early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.
Not using your vision benefits means:
- Missing important early detection of eye health issues
- Skipping prescription updates, leading to headaches and blurred vision
- Paying full price for products or services that your plan could help cover
Smart Ways to Use Your Vision Plan Before Year-End
If you’re wondering how to make the most of your vision insurance plan, you’re not alone. Many patients in Arlington wait until the last minute, only to realize they missed out on valuable benefits. The good news? There’s still time, and plenty of ways to put your plan benefits to work before they expire. Here’s where to start:
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
An eye exam is more than a prescription check; it’s a complete assessment of your eye health, which can reveal early signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and even diabetes. If it’s been more than 12 months since your last check-up, you’re likely due.
2. Use Your Frame or Lens Allowance
Your insurance plan may offer a yearly allowance for frames and lenses. At Arlington Vision Source, we carry more than 1,000 designer and budget-friendly styles, and we’ll help you make the most of your plan options.
3. Upgrade With Confidence
Want thinner lenses? Scratch protection? Blue light filtering? Many benefit programs cover lens enhancements. Don’t settle for the basics when your vision insurance plan could cover better protection and comfort.
4. Consider a Second Pair
Glasses for work. Glasses for sports. Sunglasses with your prescription. Most people benefit from more than one pair, and plan benefits often help cover a second set at reduced cost.
5. Revisit Your Contact Lens Fit
If you wear contacts, it’s smart to check your prescription and ensure your lenses still suit your eyes. We also offer hard-to-fit options, such as scleral lenses and ortho-k, which may be included in your vision care plan.
Make Your Benefits Count at Arlington Vision Source in Arlington, TX
There’s no need to waste valuable plan benefits. Whether it’s time for a check-up, new glasses, or an upgrade in your vision care, our team is here to help you maximize your coverage and protect your sight.
Arlington families, professionals, and retirees all count on us for comprehensive vision support and transparent care. Book your comprehensive eye exam, and we'll help you use your benefits before you lose them.
Vision Insurance FAQs
What’s the deadline to use my vision insurance plan?
Most vision insurance plans reset on January 1. This means unused benefits for eye exams, frames, or lenses expire on December 31.
Does vision insurance cover contact lenses or just glasses?
Many plans cover either glasses or contact lenses, including specialty fits. Some offer discounts for second pairs or lens upgrades.
How do I find out what’s covered in my plan?
Call your insurance provider or contact our office. We can help you understand your plan benefits, coverage limits, and what options are in-network.