How Seniors Can Save Money on Prescription Glasses
“What tips can you recommend for saving money on prescription glasses? I used to have vision insurance through my work but lost it when I turned 65 and signed up for Medicare. ” – Need Spectacles
It’s still generally true that original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover routine vision services like eye exams and prescription eyeglasses, unless you’ve had cataract surgery. However, there are several ways to find affordable eyewear.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
While original Medicare (Part A and Part B) generally does not cover routine vision services, many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offered by private insurance companies do. These plans cover all the same medical and hospital services as original Medicare and often include additional benefits like vision, dental, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
Important Note: The level of vision coverage within Medicare Advantage plans can vary significantly. Before enrolling, you should carefully review the plan’s details to confirm the extent of coverage for routine eye exams, eyeglass frames, and lenses.
To locate and compare Medicare Advantage plans in your area that provide vision coverage, use the Medicare Plan Finder tool or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
If you are currently enrolled in original Medicare, you can switch to a Medicare Advantage plan each year during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15 to December 7. If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and want to switch to a different one, you can do so during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP), from January 1 to March 31.
If you prefer to remain with original Medicare, you can still obtain vision coverage by purchasing a standalone vision insurance policy. Websites like eHealthInsurance.com allow you to compare various policies. Keep in mind that the cost of these policies, including monthly premiums and copays, can vary. Before signing up, carefully evaluate whether the potential savings outweigh the associated costs.”
Discount Stores
Purchasing eyeglasses from discount retailers remains a viable way to save. Costco Optical, Sam’s Club Optical, and Walmart Vision Centers offer competitive pricing. While eyeglasses at these locations average around $184, it’s important to note that prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and inflation. Remember that Costco and Sam’s Club require annual membership fees, which may change over time. Also, inventory and available brands can vary by location.
Check for eligibility for additional discounts. Membership groups like AMAC and AAA often provide savings on eyewear.
Keep in mind that the optical retail landscape is dynamic. Online retailers are increasingly competitive, and brick-and-mortar stores may adjust their pricing and discount policies. Therefore, it’s wise to compare prices and options from multiple sources, both online and in-store, to ensure you get the best deal.
Buy Online
Buying eyeglasses online can also offer huge savings. Stores like ZenniOptical.com, and EyeBuyDirect.com sell prescription eyeglasses for as little as $6 and $7. These sites let you upload a photo of your face, so you can see what you’d look like in different frames.
Or, for a snappier choice of frames see WarbyParker.com, which offers single-vision glasses starting at $95. They even offer a free program where you can request up to five pairs to try on at home for five days.
To purchase glasses online, you’ll need a valid prescription from an eye doctor (typically no more than a year old), plus your pupillary distance number, which is the distance, measured in millimeters, between the centers of your pupils in each eye.
Low-Income Assistance
If your income is low, depending on where you live, there may be some local clinics that provide free or discounted eye exams and eyeglasses. Put in a call to your local Lions Club to see what’s available in your area. See Directory.LionsClubs.org for contact information.
You may also be able to get free eyeglasses through New Eyes (New-Eyes.org, 973-376-4903), a nonprofit organization that provides free eyeglasses through a voucher program to people in financial need.
Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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Originally published March 25, 2025
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