Use It Or Lose It.
We’re approaching the end of the year, and while you’re planning for the upcoming holidays, don’t forget to maximize your insurance vision benefits! In many cases, FSA funds and vision benefits expire at the end of the calendar year. Don’t leave money on the table. Make sure you’re taking advantage of your vision benefits by scheduling your annual eye exam and by investing in new glasses or contact lenses for the new year! After all, if you don’t lose those benefits, you lose them.
How To Take Advantage Of Your Vision Benefits Before They Expire.
Did you know you can use your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to cover your eye care expenses? This includes copays, eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and more. Schedule an appointment or walk into your local Dr. Tavel location to put your medical dollars to use.
Flexible Spending Account – FSA
FSA stands for Flexible Spending Account. Often, your employer manages the FSA account and may even contribute to it. Beware however that funds in your FSA typically expire at the end of the year and don’t roll over. Make sure to check your account before the end of the year, because if you don’t use it, you lose it! Additionally, FSAs offer tax-free savings!
Health Spending Account – HSA
HSA stands for Health Savings Account. This is also a tax-free account to which individuals can contribute funds to use for out-of-pocket medical costs. It operates similarly to a personal savings account but can only be used for medical expenses. The majority of prescription eyecare expenses are considered medical expenses, so an HSA can help you cover your eye exam, a new pair of glasses, or your annual supply of contacts! While HSA dollars don’t usually expire at the end of the year, it’s always a good idea to check the account and see how much you have saved. There’s no better time to snag extra contacts or a second pair of glasses from Dr. Tavel than our end-of-year sale!
4 Ways To Use Your FSA/HSA Funds
Prescription Glasses
If you have a valid prescription, your FSA or HSA can cover your glasses! Why not upgrade to a new pair of frames for the new year? Even if your prescription has stayed the same, it is always a good idea to have a backup pair of glasses. Accidents can and will happen. If you lose or break your glasses, having a spare will ensure your vision is never compromised. It’s always ideal to have different looks for different occasions as well.
Contact Lenses
Sometimes, investing in contacts and all the necessary supplies that go with them can add up. And, there are some vision plans that don’t cover contact lenses. The good news is your FSA or HSA can cover the cost of your lenses, cases, contact solution, and more. Even if you already have your contact lens supply, it’s always good to have a few extra pairs on hand, just in case. Use your HSA/FSA funds to order additional boxes here before your prescription expires.
Sunglasses
Stop struggling with painful glare, reflection, and harmful light. Sun protection is important every day of the year, and having a pair of prescription sunglasses enables you to protect your eyes from UV rays without sacrificing your sight or style. You can use your medical dollars toward prescription sunglasses at any time. Start shopping for your next pair here.
Annual Eye Exams
The best way to stay on top of your vision health is by getting an annual eye exam. Comprehensive eye exams can catch and diagnose visual health issues early, detect and monitor chronic disease, and ensure your current prescription is meeting your lifestyle needs. Your FSA or HSA can help cover exam costs. Keep in mind that most vision benefits expire at the end of the year, so don’t wait. Appointments fill up quickly, so schedule your eye exam online today.