How to Maximize Your Vision Benefits Before the End of the Year

As the year comes to a close, many people forget that vision benefits often expire on December 31. If you don’t use them, you lose them. Whether you have vision insurance through an employer or a private plan, the final months of the year are the perfect time to take advantage of benefits you’ve already paid for.

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam is one of the most valuable ways to use your remaining vision benefits. These exams do more than check your prescription - they evaluate your overall eye health and can help detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic eye disease.

Even if your vision feels stable, annual eye exams are essential. Many vision plans cover all or most of the cost of a comprehensive exam, making this an easy and important benefit to use before the year ends.

Update Your Prescription and Lenses

If it’s been a year or more since your last exam, your prescription may have changed without you realizing it. Wearing outdated glasses or contacts can lead to eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision.

Vision benefits often include an allowance for updated lenses, including options such as anti-reflective coatings, blue light filtering, or high-index lenses. Using your benefits now allows you to upgrade your lenses for better comfort and clearer vision without waiting until next year.

Explore New Frames

Most vision plans include a frame allowance that resets annually. If you’ve been putting off new glasses, now is the ideal time to explore updated frame styles that better fit your look and lifestyle.

Choosing new frames before your benefits reset ensures you get the most value out of your plan. Whether you prefer classic styles or something more modern, updating your frames can improve both your vision and confidence.

Stock Up on Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, the end of the year is an excellent time to place an order. Many vision plans provide coverage or discounts for contact lenses, and unused benefits typically don’t roll over.

Stocking up on contacts now can save you money and ensure you have what you need well into the new year. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss newer contact lens options with your optometrist that may offer better comfort or vision quality.

Don’t Let Your Benefits Go to Waste

The end of the year is the perfect time to prioritize your eye health and make the most of your vision benefits. Taking action now ensures you don’t leave valuable benefits unused and helps you start the new year with clear, comfortable vision.

If you’re ready to maximize your vision benefits before they expire, schedule an appointment with Focal Optometry today. Contact our office in San Diego, California, by calling (858) 330-4200 to book your year-end eye exam before benefits reset.