I want to buy a pair of prescription glasses using my VSP insurance (I'm in the US). What's the most economic way to order it? Do you buy it from a physician store? Any tips?
The prices on a physical store is highly inflated, 2x-3x more. So I end up paying like 120$ for a pair even when I have insurance. I think there is better way to save while still making the best use of my insurance.
Best way to buy prescription glasses
byu/Powerful-Angel-301 inFrugal
Posted by Powerful-Angel-301
13 Comments
Zenni.
Get your rx from a local exam, go to Zenni to order the glasses. I’ve used them for years and have been happy.
the only thing about online is you need the PD measurements and the optical places know that and what you’re going to do and they will not give you that information.
Ive used firmoo. I got the basic lenses. No extras. Typically about $20 out of pocket. My last insurance plan gave me a hearing dental vision card that actually covered me getting those out-of-pocket glasses. They have some very unique and cute design designs too.
https://preview.redd.it/tfl381n5s11g1.jpeg?width=2494&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=218aaf87736354de3f421865828c2bc08b4c7429
Costco. If you’re a member, do some comparison shopping. I reviewed Zenni, Warby (my go-to glasses vendor), and viewed a few other online vendors. Very competitive, and often offering better pricing and deals, because they are Costco. I used VSP too. Good luck.
I don’t have vision coverage so I go to America’s Best for the exam and zenni for the glasses. Two pair of progressive with thin lenses for $285.
See what your coverage is. Mine is up to $150 for frames in network, $75 out. Basic lenses are free for me. I usually do Warby Parker (most are $100) and just pay the $25 difference because out of network.
Zenni or Eyebuydirect are my go to online shops for glasses
I found I get a better rate at a local providers office than through Lens Crafters or the like. Last year, I ordered 1 pair from my local office, and then grabbed another pair from Pair eyewear as a backup that was VERY basic. The first pair that I was sent wasn’t right, so I went to my providers office to get the correct measurements and gave those to Pair and they sent me a whole new pair.
This year, I took the pair with the wrong script, and had the lenses updated to be the same that are in my primary eyeglasses that I had purchased last year, so now I have 3 pairs of eyeglasses in case I break one or lose them at the bottom of the lake
What nobody here is saying is that vsp hardly gives you anything for out of network. Get your prescription with the PD and buy from eyeconic. They are the only in network website. With my insurance I can get glasses and lenses for $35.
I just ordered glasses from Eyebuydirect. They were $26 because I went with the anti-reflective coating (makes a huge difference in video calls). This was without insurance.
Optometrist are absolute scammers. Worse than used car salesmen.
You’ll pay more if you use VSP insurance than if you use Zenni.
If you live close enough, Mexico is the best option. It will be cheaper than using your insurance in the US.