Every year, countless patients forget or postpone their annual eye exams, and with it, they lose the chance to use their full vision benefits. If you’ve been meaning to get an eye exam, update your glasses, or try contact lenses, now is the time to act. Most vision insurance plans reset on January 1st, which means unused benefits from the current year are lost.
At Commerce Family Eyecare, we want to make sure you get the most out of the coverage you already pay for. Whether it’s for a new pair of frames, an updated contact lens prescription, or a comprehensive eye exam, your vision plan likely includes benefits that can be applied before December 30th, but only if you book soon.
Why Do Vision Benefits Expire?
Vision insurance works differently than traditional health insurance. Most plans include annual coverage for an eye exam, along with a set allowance for glasses or contact lenses. But unlike unused funds in a savings account, your benefits don’t roll over. If you don’t use them by the plan’s deadline, usually December 31st, they’re gone.
Here’s what that means in practical terms:
- You may be entitled to a yearly eye exam that helps detect issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
- You might have coverage for frames or lenses, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eyewear.
- Some plans include contact lens evaluations and discounts on specialized lens types.
It’s a “use it or lose it” system, and many people only realize it after the window closes.
The Year-End Rush Is Real, Don’t Wait to Book
If you’ve ever tried to book a last-minute appointment with your eye doctor in December, you probably already know how competitive it gets. From parents trying to squeeze in eye exams for their kids during winter break to adults updating their glasses before their FSA funds expire, late December is one of the busiest times of the year in eye care clinics.
Scheduling early not only ensures you’ll find a convenient time slot, but it also allows enough time to order glasses or contacts if needed. Prescription lenses often take a few days to a week to be ready, and with holiday shipping delays, timing matters.
What Services Can You Use Vision Benefits For?
Depending on your insurance provider and plan, your vision benefits might cover more than you think. Here's a breakdown of what you can typically use them for:
- Comprehensive Eye Exams: Annual exams aren't just about updating your prescription. They help detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
- Glasses: Most plans offer a frame allowance, which can be used toward designer eyewear or a backup pair of glasses.
- Contact Lenses: Some plans provide a contact lens fitting and an allowance that can go toward daily, bi-weekly, or specialty lenses.
- Lens Upgrades: Features like anti-reflective coatings, blue light filters, and transition lenses can often be purchased at a discounted rate through insurance.
- Specialty Services: Depending on your plan, you might also have coverage for services like myopia management or dry eye evaluations.
If you're not sure what your specific plan includes, the friendly staff at Commerce Family Eyecare can help you review your benefits and maximize your options before they reset.
FSAs Expire Too, Make the Most of Every Dollar
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), this is another reason not to delay. These accounts are funded with pre-tax dollars and can be used for qualified medical expenses, including eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses. However, like vision benefits, FSA dollars generally don’t roll over into the new year.
It's a smart move to spend down your FSA balance on essentials that protect your eye health and improve your day-to-day life. If you're looking for a way to use your remaining funds, consider upgrading your glasses or investing in prescription sunglasses.
Eye Care in Commerce: We’re Here to Help
At Commerce Family Eyecare, our goal is to make it easy for you to get the care you need. We provide a wide range of services, from routine eye exams to optical consultations, and we’re happy to help you make the most of your insurance before it resets.
Whether you're a longtime patient or visiting us for the first time, we’ll make sure your appointment is smooth, informative, and tailored to your needs.
Don’t Miss Out, Use Your Benefits Before December 30th
Time’s ticking. Vision benefits and FSA dollars can significantly reduce your eye care costs, but only if you act before the deadline. December is already filling up fast, so don’t wait. Give us a call or request an eye care appointment online today to reserve your spot. Our friendly staff is standing by to help you make the most of your remaining 2026 vision benefits.