Contact lenses provide a convenient alternative to glasses, offering better peripheral vision and allowing for more freedom in daily activities. However, the cost of purchasing lenses can add up over time. If you’re looking to save money on contact lenses, there are several strategies you can use without compromising your eye health. Here are three effective ways to reduce the cost of your contacts:
1. Shop Around for the Best Prices
The price of contact lenses can vary significantly depending on where you purchase them. While you might be accustomed to buying from your optometrist’s office or local optical stores, these places often have higher prices compared to online retailers. By shopping around and comparing prices, you can find significant savings.
Many online stores specialize in selling contact lenses, often at a fraction of the price you would pay at brick-and-mortar locations. Websites like 1-800 Contacts, Discount Contacts, or LensDirect offer competitive prices and discounts for bulk purchases. Additionally, some online retailers provide price match guarantees, so if you find a lower price elsewhere, they might match it. Be sure to check for promo codes or seasonal sales, which can also add to your savings.
When shopping online, it’s essential to ensure that the retailer is reputable and provides genuine, FDA-approved lenses. Always double-check that the lenses you are purchasing match your prescription to avoid potential risks to your eye health.
2. Buy in Bulk or Subscribe to a Refill Service
Buying contact lenses in bulk is one of the best ways to save money over time. Most people wear the same brand and prescription for a long period, so purchasing lenses in bulk can be a cost-effective strategy. Optometrists typically prescribe lenses for a year or more, so buying a year’s worth of lenses upfront can eliminate the hassle of reordering every month or quarter. This not only saves you money but also ensures that you always have a fresh supply on hand.
Many online retailers offer discounts when you buy multiple boxes of lenses or subscribe to a subscription service. For instance, subscribing to a regular delivery plan can lock in a discount and eliminate the risk of forgetting to reorder your lenses. These subscriptions often provide extra perks, such as free shipping or the ability to pause or cancel orders if needed.
Before buying in bulk, make sure your prescription remains valid for the entire duration of your purchase. You’ll want to avoid purchasing lenses in excess if your prescription could change within the year.
3. Take Advantage of Insurance and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
If you have vision insurance, you may be entitled to discounts or reimbursement for the cost of contact lenses. Many vision insurance plans offer coverage for eye exams and discounts on contact lenses or eyeglasses. Be sure to check the specifics of your plan to see if it includes contact lens coverage, and don’t forget to utilize any discounts available to you. Some plans also provide allowances for a certain dollar amount toward the purchase of contact lenses, which can significantly offset the cost.
Another option to save money on contacts is through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare-related expenses, including contact lenses. By using FSA or HSA funds, you can effectively save money on the purchase of contacts since you’re using tax-free dollars to pay for them. Keep in mind that FSAs typically have annual limits and require you to use the funds within the year, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Saving money on contact lenses doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or eye health. By shopping around for the best prices, buying in bulk, and taking advantage of insurance or FSA benefits, you can significantly reduce the cost of your lenses. Being proactive about your eye care budget will help you maintain good vision while keeping your finances in check.
