How to Maximize Your Vision Benefits Before the End of the Year

As the year comes to a close, many vision insurance benefits are approaching their expiration date. For most plans, unused benefits do not roll over - meaning any remaining allowances for eye exams, eyewear, or contact lenses could be lost if not used in time.  At Northside Vision, we encourage patients to schedule their eye care visits before year’s end to ensure nothing goes to waste.

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam is one of the most valuable benefits included in most vision plans. Beyond checking your prescription, these exams allow your optometrist to assess your overall eye health and screen for early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and more.

Even if you feel your vision hasn’t changed, an annual eye exam is essential. Many eye conditions develop without noticeable symptoms, and early detection can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes. Using your insurance benefits now ensures your eyes are thoroughly evaluated before the year ends.

Update Your Prescription and Lenses

If it has been a year or more since your last eye exam, your prescription may no longer be as accurate as it once was. Wearing outdated glasses or contacts can lead to headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, and fatigue - especially if you spend long hours on digital devices.

An updated prescription allows you to see more clearly and comfortably. It’s also a great opportunity to explore lens upgrades that may be partially or fully covered by your benefits, such as anti-reflective coatings, blue light filtering lenses, or progressives designed for everyday use.

Use Your Frame Allowance

Most vision insurance plans include an annual or biennial allowance for frames. If you don’t use it before the end of the year, that benefit is typically forfeited.

Whether you’re due for a new look or need a backup pair, now is an ideal time to browse new frames. At Northside Vision, our team can help you find frames that fit your style, prescription needs, and insurance coverage.

Stock Up on Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, year-end is the perfect time to order a supply using your remaining benefits or flexible spending dollars. Many plans offer allowances specifically for contacts, and ordering before benefits reset can result in significant savings.

Stocking up ensures you’ll have what you need for the months ahead and helps you avoid out-of-pocket costs in the new year. Be sure to confirm that your contact lens prescription is current, as most prescriptions must be valid to place an order.

Take Advantage of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA or HSA)

If you have an FSA or HSA, these funds can often be used toward eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses. FSAs, in particular, may have a “use it or lose it” rule, making it even more important to plan ahead before the deadline.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

The end of the year is one of the busiest times for eye care offices, and appointment availability can fill quickly. Scheduling early gives you more flexibility and ensures you have time to select eyewear or place contact lens orders before insurance deadlines.

If you’re ready to make the most of your vision benefits before the end of the year, contact Northside Vision to schedule your comprehensive eye exam today. Visit our office in Spokane, Washington, or call (509) 519-4400 to book an appointment.