If you’re enrolled in a vision insurance plan or have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you’ve likely heard the phrase “use it or lose it.” In eye care, this means any unused benefits — like your annual eye exam, frame allowance, or contact lens credit — may expire on December 31. And if you don’t use those funds before the deadline? They disappear.
It’s one of the few cases in life where procrastinating can literally cost you money.
What Benefits Typically Expire
Understanding what’s included in your plan is key. While coverage varies between providers, most vision insurance policies and FSA/HSA accounts include the following benefits on a use-it-or-lose-it basis:
- Annual eye exam: A comprehensive check-up to monitor your vision and screen for conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
- Eyeglasses or frames allowance: Many plans include a yearly allowance toward a new pair of prescription glasses or designer frames.
- Contact lens credit: For contact wearers, most plans offer a replacement supply or credit toward lenses.
- FSA/HSA funds: These tax-advantaged accounts can be used for prescription eyewear, exams, and even dry eye treatments — but FSAs in particular often have strict end-of-year deadlines.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until December
Think of it this way — you’ve already paid into these benefits. Letting them expire means you’re giving up care you’ve earned. Acting now gives you two major advantages:
- You save money. Using your benefits before they expire prevents you from paying out of pocket later.
- You protect your eye health. Even if you feel your vision hasn’t changed, your annual exam can catch early signs of disease before symptoms appear.
And in busy places like Norwell, appointment slots fill up fast in November and December. The earlier you schedule, the better your options.
Vision Care Services in Norwell, MA
At South Shore Vision Care, we make it easy for you to take full advantage of your benefits before they expire. We offer:
- Comprehensive eye exams for all ages — performed with advanced diagnostic technology
- A full optical boutique — including designer eyeglasses and the latest lens options
- Convenient contact lens fittings and supplies
- Expert guidance on your insurance — so you know exactly what’s covered
Our eye care team is here to walk you through your plan details, help you understand your allowances, and make sure you don’t leave value on the table.
How to Get Started
- Review your vision insurance: Check what’s covered, what’s remaining, and when it expires.
- Book your appointment early: End-of-year slots at South Shore Vision Care go quickly — don’t wait.
- Bring your insurance info: This lets our team maximize what your plan covers.
- Ask about allowances: Whether you wear glasses or contacts, don’t forget to use those eyewear credits!
Don’t Lose What You’ve Earned — Book Today
There’s still time to take advantage of your vision benefits — but not much. Whether you need an exam, new glasses, or contact lenses, we’re ready to help.
Don’t let your 2025 vision benefits go unused — request your appointment at South Shore Vision Care in Norwell today.