How to Use Vision Insurance for Online Glasses in the US

Buying prescription glasses online is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to visiting optical stores. But many people wonder, can you use vision insurance to pay for glasses online? The answer is yes—many vision insurance providers allow online purchases, but the process varies depending on whether the retailer is in-network or out-of-network.

If you have VSP, EyeMed, Davis Vision, or another vision insurance plan, this guide will help you understand how to use your insurance online, which retailers accept it, and how to maximize your benefits.

Step 1: Does Your Insurance Cover Online Glasses?

Most major vision insurance plans cover prescription glasses purchased online, but their policies differ.

✔️ In-network retailers: Your insurance is applied directly at checkout, meaning you only pay for anything that isn’t covered.
✔️ Out-of-network retailers: You must pay the full amount upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.

How to check your insurance coverage:

1. Log in to your vision insurance provider’s website.

2. Look for a list of approved online retailers (some providers only cover certain stores).

3. Check your plan details to see how much is covered for frames, lenses, and coatings.

💡 Pro Tip: Even if your preferred retailer is out-of-network, you might still save money by buying glasses online and submitting a reimbursement claim.

Step 2: Where to Buy Glasses Online with Insurance

In-Network Online Retailers (Apply Insurance at Checkout)

If an online store is in-network, your vision insurance applies automatically at checkout, reducing how much you pay upfront. Here are some of the most common in-network online retailers:

🟡 Eyeconic – Accepts VSP, Cigna, MetLife
🟡 Glasses.com – Accepts EyeMed, Aetna, Cigna
🟡 ContactsDirect – Accepts major insurance providers (for contact lenses)

✔️ Best for: People who want to use insurance directly without extra paperwork.

Out-of-Network Online Retailers (Reimbursement Required)

Many top online eyewear retailers are out-of-network, meaning you pay upfront and then submit a claim for a partial refund. Some of the best options include:

🟡 NextPair – Specializes in Asian fit frames and high-index lenses
🟡 Warby Parker – Offers virtual try-on and a home try-on program
🟡 Zenni Optical – Provides budget-friendly glasses starting at $10
🟡 EyeBuyDirect – Great for trendy frames and affordable lens upgrades

✔️ Best for: Those looking for cheaper, high-quality eyewear with more frame choices.

💡 Pro Tip: Some out-of-network retailers offer HSA/FSA payment options, so you can still use tax-free vision benefits.

Step 3: How to Use Insurance for Online Glasses

For In-Network Online Retailers:

1️⃣ Select your frames and lenses.
2️⃣ Enter your insurance details at checkout.
3️⃣ Insurance applies automatically—you only pay for extras not covered (such as premium coatings or high-index lenses).
4️⃣ Receive your glasses in 5-10 days!

For Out-of-Network Online Retailers (Reimbursement Process):

1️⃣ Purchase your glasses and pay in full at checkout.
2️⃣ Get an itemized receipt that includes:

• Your name

• Your prescription details

• The cost of frames and lenses

• The date of purchase
  3️⃣ Download a reimbursement claim form from your insurance provider’s website.
  4️⃣ Submit your claim online or by mail, attaching your receipt.
  5️⃣ Wait for reimbursement, which typically takes 2-4 weeks.

💡 Pro Tip: Most vision insurance providers partially reimburse out-of-network purchases, so you might only get back $50-$150 depending on your plan.

Step 4: Understanding Vision Insurance Benefits for Online Glasses

To make the most of your vision insurance, it’s important to understand what’s covered and how much you can save.

What Vision Insurance Typically Covers:

🟡 Eye exams – Some plans cover one per year or offer a discount.
🟡 Frames – Most plans provide a frame allowance (typically $150).
🟡 Standard lenses – Basic plastic (CR-39) lenses are often fully covered.
🟡 Lens upgrades – High-index, progressive, or blue light lenses may cost extra.

What Insurance Usually Doesn’t Cover:

🚫 Premium lens coatings – Anti-glare, blue light filtering, and scratch-resistant coatings may require an additional fee.
🚫 Designer frames – If your frames exceed the allowance (e.g., a $250 pair with a $150 allowance), you’ll pay the difference.
🚫 Additional pairs of glasses – Most plans only cover one pair per year.

💡 Pro Tip: If your insurance doesn’t fully cover high-index lenses, you can often get better deals on thin, lightweight lenses by purchasing out-of-network and requesting a reimbursement.

Step 5: How to Get the Best Deals with Insurance

Using vision insurance for online glasses can save you money, but there are still ways to maximize your savings:

✔️ Use your FSA or HSA – Even if your vision insurance doesn’t cover all costs, you can use flexible spending (FSA) or health savings (HSA) accounts to pay for extra upgrades.
✔️ Buy during seasonal sales – Many online retailers offer Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school discounts.
✔️ Check for first-time buyer discounts – Some stores offer 10-15% off your first purchase.
✔️ Consider multiple pairs – If you need prescription sunglasses or a backup pair, look for BOGO (buy one, get one free) deals.

💡 Pro Tip: NextPair offers free shipping and returns on all orders, plus a 30-day free try-on period—perfect for testing out frames before committing.

Common Questions About Buying Glasses Online with Insurance

1. Is it cheaper to buy glasses online with insurance?

It depends! In-network stores apply insurance at checkout, but out-of-network retailers often offer lower prices. If you don’t mind paying upfront and filing for reimbursement, you might save more online.

2. Can I use vision insurance for multiple pairs of glasses?

Most insurance plans only cover one pair per year, but you can pay for additional pairs using your FSA or HSA.

3. Do online retailers accept both vision insurance and FSA/HSA cards?

Many online eyewear stores accept FSA and HSA cards, even if they’re out-of-network for insurance. This can help reduce costs for lens upgrades.

4. What’s the best option for high prescriptions?

If you have a strong prescription, using insurance for high-index lenses in-network may be expensive. Buying online and getting reimbursed could save you more.

Final Thoughts: Should You Use Insurance for Online Glasses?

Using vision insurance to buy glasses online can save you money, but the best approach depends on your plan and retailer choice.

✔️ Use in-network retailers if you want insurance applied immediately at checkout.
✔️ Shop out-of-network for better frame selection and lower overall prices, then request reimbursement.
✔️ Consider online retailers like NextPair for Asian fit frames and high-index lenses, which might be more affordable than in-store options.

🟡👓 No matter how you buy your glasses, be sure to check your insurance details and compare costs to get the best deal!