Vision insurance is inexpensive compared with health coverage, but it is not automatically a good deal. Whether it is worth it comes down to one question: will the benefits you use be worth more than what you pay?
What you pay
- Monthly premiums, multiplied by 12
- The exam copay
- Lens copays and any add-ons
- Anything above your frame or contact allowance
What you get
- A routine eye exam
- An allowance toward frames or contacts
- Covered standard lenses
- Discounts on extra pairs and sometimes on LASIK
The break-even method
- Estimate what your exam and eyewear would cost this year without insurance.
- Estimate your total cost with insurance: premiums plus copays plus overages.
- If the first number is higher, the plan is worth it for you this year.
Who usually comes out ahead
- People who buy new glasses or contacts every year
- Families with several people who need exams and eyewear
- People whose employer pays part of the premium
- Anyone who wants predictable costs for eye care
Who may not need it
- People with perfect vision who only want an occasional exam
- People who keep the same frames for years and update lenses rarely
- People who shop for low-cost eyewear online and pay for exams directly
Remember what health insurance covers
Medical eye problems are usually covered by your health plan, not vision insurance. Vision coverage is about routine exams and eyewear. See does health insurance cover eye exams?
Consider the alternatives
- A vision discount plan for lower membership costs.
- HSA or FSA dollars to pay for exams and glasses with pre-tax money — see using HSA and FSA funds for eyewear.
Children's eye exams and glasses are often covered through ACA health plans — see kids' vision coverage before buying separate coverage for them.
Want help deciding whether vision coverage makes sense for you? Our free tool compares plans across top carriers and shows what you would actually pay in about 60 seconds — no obligation, and a licensed agent reviews your options with you. Get your free quote →