The online-optical arbitrage
Online retailers sell complete prescription glasses for $40–100 — often less than the in-network copay plus frame overage. The plan still wins on exams ($10 copay vs $110 cash) and contacts allowances. Many savvy wearers use the plan for the exam and contacts, and skip in-network frames entirely.
- • Medical eye conditions (glaucoma, infections) go to health insurance, not vision plans.
- • FSA/HSA dollars pay for exams, glasses, and contacts tax-free either way.
- • Plans often allow glasses OR contacts per year, not both — time your purchases.
Related guides
Long-form playbooks on the same topic, written by the RevenueLab editorial team.
FAQ
Is vision insurance worth it?
If you get an annual exam and use the full frame or contacts allowance, yes — typically $100–250/yr ahead. If you wear the same glasses for years or buy online, cash usually wins.
How much does vision insurance cost?
$10–18/month for individual plans. Employer plans are often $5–8/month subsidized — at that price, take it.
Does vision insurance cover LASIK?
Not fully — most plans negotiate a 15–20% discount with partnered surgeons ($500–1,000 off). FSA/HSA funds are the better LASIK vehicle since the full $4–6K qualifies tax-free.
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