Explore opportunities to enhance your outfits, get the designer pair of sunglasses you've always wanted or transform your lifestyle with contact lenses. The right products can offer the ultimate style and convenience, ensuring you never miss a moment.
Whether you're looking for ways to showcase your personality or upgrade your prescription, the time is almost up to use your flexible spending account (FSA) on vision benefits. By setting aside pre-tax money for eligible out-of-pocket health care costs, employer-sponsored accounts offer "use-it-or-lose-it" funds.
Don't lose flexible spending — learn how to save money on expenses such as eye exams, eyewear and contact lenses by the deadline.
Deadline for Flex Spending
Although plans can vary, the FSA deadline for vision care is typically December 31. Many employers offer an extended grace period until March 15 or a run-out period lasting 90 days — before these dates, employees may be able to submit claims for expenses incurred in the previous year. You should check the specific documents for your plan or contact your human resources (HR) department to confirm your exact deadlines.
How to Use Your FSA Before the Year Ends
Enjoy an easy way to pay for eligible eye products and vision care with your FSA. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Check eligible expenses: Review your plan's documents to confirm your eligibility and coverage. Many FSAs cover vision necessities such as eye exams, prescription eyewear and contact lenses.
- Obtain a valid prescription: To purchase eyewear products or contact lenses, you'll need a valid prescription. Arrange an appointment with your nearest eye doctor or visit an office that offers walk-in services.
- Make your purchase: Use your FSA card to complete your purchase, or pay out-of-pocket and get an itemized receipt. If you choose to submit for reimbursement, you'll need to log in to your FSA account and follow your provider's specific instructions to submit your claim documentation.
Common FSA-Eligible Vision Purchases
These purchases are usually eligible for FSA funds — check your provider's documentation to know exactly what's included in your plan.
Prescription Glasses
Choose a pair of prescription glasses with frame shapes, patterns and colors that match your style. Visit a store in person to try on glasses and find a comfortable fit that complements your facial features.
Prescription Sunglasses
Improve your vision and protect your eyes, especially on bright and sunny days. Select a pair of prescription sunglasses to wear while driving to work or enjoying outdoor activities.
Prescription Contact Lenses
Opt for a frameless, natural appearance with contact lenses. They stay in place and provide a more natural field of vision without fogging in various weather conditions, offering convenience for various lifestyles and professions.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Schedule a vision exam or request a walk-in appointment with a local eye doctor next to your glasses store. Having your prescription checked is essential for your overall wellness and can help you detect potential health issues early on.
Other Items
Some providers offer FSA funds that are eligible for:
- Specialty lenses, such as multifocal, bifocal and progressive lenses
- Prescription safety glasses for work or other activities
- Blue-light computer glasses
- Reading glasses
- Eyeglass repair kits
- Supplies for contact lenses, such as cleaners and cases
- LASIK and other eye surgeries for medical conditions
- Eye drops for medical conditions
What Isn't Eligible for FSA Spending?
While plans vary, you usually can't use FSA funds for the following:
- Cosmetic or non-prescription colored contact lenses
- Non-prescription sunglasses
- Eyeglass insurance or warranty plans
Spend Your Remaining FSA Funds at Eyemart Express
Looking for FSA-eligible eyewear? Shop thousands of eligible products at Eyemart Express. We offer an easy way to shop with FSA funds online. Browse our site and place your order.
Want to shop with FSA funds in person? Or need an eye exam? We're conveniently located next to Independent Doctors of Optometry in most states. Our independent doctor partners can assist with comprehensive eye exams. While we don't offer contact lenses at Eyemart Express, our partners may also be able to help fit you with the right pair of contacts.
Use our store locator today.
