How to Maximize Your Vision Benefits in Laredo Before the Year Ends

As the year comes to a close, many patients in Laredo are surprised to learn that unused vision benefits often expire on December 31. If you’ve been putting off an eye exam, updating your prescription, or ordering new eyewear, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the benefits you’re already paying for. With a little planning, you can protect your eye health and avoid leaving money on the table.

Understand What Your Vision Benefits Cover

Most vision plans renew annually and typically include:

•           A comprehensive eye exam

•           Allowances for glasses or contact lenses

•           Discounts on lens upgrades, such as anti-reflective or blue light filtering coatings

These benefits usually do not roll over into the new year. If you don’t use them, they’re gone. Reviewing your plan now gives you time to schedule services and avoid the end-of-year rush.

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam

End-of-year appointments fill up quickly as many patients try to use their benefits at the last minute. Scheduling your eye exam sooner rather than later ensures:

•           More appointment availability

•           Time to address any vision changes or eye health concerns

•           Enough time to order glasses or contacts before benefits expire

Even if your vision feels fine, a comprehensive eye exam can detect early signs of eye conditions that may not have noticeable symptoms.

Use Your Eyewear Allowance Wisely

If your plan includes an allowance for frames or lenses, now is the ideal time to use it. Consider:

•           Updating an old prescription

•           Ordering a second pair of glasses, such as prescription sunglasses

•           Investing in specialized lenses for work, school, or screen use

Many plans also offer discounts on additional pairs, making it easier to get eyewear that fits different aspects of your lifestyle.

Don’t Forget About Contact Lens Benefits

If you wear contact lenses, check whether your plan includes a contact lens allowance. Even if you don’t need them immediately, ordering an annual supply before the end of the year can help you:

•           Lock in your current prescription

•           Reduce out-of-pocket costs

•           Avoid price increases in the new year

Ask About Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

If you have an FSA, those funds often expire at the end of the year as well. Eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses are typically FSA-eligible expenses. Using your remaining FSA dollars for vision care is a smart way to maximize your healthcare spending.

Check for Medical Eye Care Coverage

Some eye conditions, such as dry eye, eye infections, or sudden vision changes, may be covered under your medical insurance rather than your vision plan. Addressing these issues before the year ends could help you meet deductibles and reduce costs.

Start the New Year with Clear, Comfortable Vision

Maximizing your vision benefits before the end of the year is one of the easiest ways to protect your eye health while saving money. From comprehensive eye exams to updated eyewear and contact lenses, taking action now ensures you don’t lose benefits you’ve already earned.