People expect an insurance guy to say yes to every kind of insurance. Here’s my honest answer on vision: it depends, and it’s one of the easiest ones to figure out.
Most of what vision insurance covers is predictable. An eye exam. Maybe glasses or contacts. So you can do the math yourself in a couple of minutes.
The two-minute test
- What did you spend last year on eye exams, glasses and contacts?
- What would a plan cost you? Add the yearly premium, the copays, and anything over the plan’s allowance for frames or lenses.
- Compare. If the plan comes out lower, get it. If it’s close, the plan can still be worth it just for the yearly exam.
When I usually say yes
- You wear glasses or contacts and replace them regularly.
- You have kids. Their eyes change fast, and so do their glasses.
- You want a routine eye exam every year without thinking about it.
When I tell people to skip it
If you don’t wear glasses or contacts and only see an eye doctor every few years, paying for the exam when you need it can cost less than a year of premiums. I’d rather tell you that than sell you something you won’t use.
Easy add-on
Vision plans often pair nicely with a dental plan, and most can be bought any time of year.
This article is general information, not advice for your specific situation. Rules and eligibility vary by state and circumstance.