As the year wraps up in Clive, it’s the perfect time to check in on your vision care, especially if you have unused insurance benefits. Many plans reset in January, and that means December is your last chance to schedule an eye exam or refresh your glasses with coverage you’ve already paid for. At Premier Vision Clinic, we make the process stress-free and straightforward.
Do Vision Benefits Really Expire in January?
In most cases, yes, especially if your vision insurance plan follows the calendar year. That means any benefits you haven’t used by December 31 will reset on January 1, and you won’t get credit or carryover.
Here’s what that usually means for patients:
- You may lose coverage for your annual eye exam
- You could miss out on a new pair of glasses
- You might forfeit funds that could go toward contact lenses
- Any FSA dollars (flexible spending account funds) may also expire
If you haven’t scheduled your exam or updated your eyewear this year, now is the time before your benefits disappear.
What Most Vision Plans Cover
Many patients in Clive are surprised to learn that their insurance includes more than just an eye exam. While every plan is different, most vision insurance providers cover:
- One routine eye exam per year
- A set allowance toward new glasses or frames
- Contact lens exam and fittings
- A portion of contact lens supply cost
Lens upgrades, such as anti-reflective coatings or blue light filters
It’s important to note that vision insurance typically covers routine care, like checking your prescription and monitoring your eye health. If your visit involves a medical diagnosis, such as treating dry eye or an eye infection, your medical insurance may apply instead. Our eye care team at Premier Vision Clinic can help you understand which applies to you.
Using Your Benefits at Premier Vision Clinic
Here’s how you can make the most of your insurance before the year ends without adding stress to your December calendar.
1. Schedule Your Annual Eye Exam
Even if your vision feels “fine,” a comprehensive eye exam can detect early signs of eye disease, update your prescription, and ensure long-term visual health. Most plans cover one exam per year, and if you haven’t used it, you’re likely leaving money on the table.
2. Refresh Your Glasses or Contacts
Haven’t updated your frames in a while? Most plans include a glasses or contact lens allowance that resets each year. Whether you’re looking for a fresh look or your prescription has changed, now’s a great time to browse our selection and use your optical benefits.
3. Use Your FSA or HSA Funds
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), many eye care services and products qualify, including exams, contacts, prescription sunglasses, and more. Be sure to check your balance and deadline. FSA funds often expire at the end of the calendar year.
Live in Clive with a busy family schedule? We’ve got evening and lunch-hour appointments available, but they go fast in December.
Not Sure What Your Plan Covers? We Can Help
Understanding insurance fine print shouldn’t be your problem. That’s what our front desk is here for.
Our team can:
- Verify your benefits for you
- Let you know exactly what’s covered
- Help you apply FSA or HSA dollars
- Schedule you before benefits expire
We work with a wide variety of plans, including VSP®, EyeMed®, and many employer-based insurance providers. And if you’ve already used some of your coverage this year, we can help you figure out what’s left.
Schedule Your Eye Exam in December
Vision benefits don’t roll over, and neither does your schedule. December is one of the busiest months of the year at our Clive office, so we recommend booking as early as possible.
Premier Vision Clinic is here to make this easy for you, whether you’re due for an exam, want to upgrade your frames, or need help sorting through your insurance.
Call us today or book an online eye care appointment to lock in your spot before your benefits expire.