Vision Insurance 101: What It Covers and Why You Need It

Protect your eyes and save on vision care with our comprehensive vision insurance plans. Find affordable coverage for routine eye exams, glasses, contacts, and more.



Vision is one of our most critical senses, and maintaining good eye health is essential. But, with the rising costs of eye care, many individuals find themselves wondering how to afford regular eye exams, prescription glasses, or contact lenses. That's where vision insurance comes in. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore various vision insurance brands, their unique offerings, and how they can help you save on eye care without compromising on quality.
Brand: VSP

Specs: Pay Less, Get More with VSP

With VSP (Vision Service Plan), you can expect personalized vision coverage tailored to your unique needs. Your sight is precious, and VSP's coverage aims to be priceless, offering what they describe as 20/20 peace of mind. Here's what VSP brings to the table:

  • Full-service plans with annual eye exams covered after a copay: VSP emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams, which is why their plans often include these at a low additional cost.
  • A wider range of coverage than most Medicare or discount plans offer: VSP strives to offer more comprehensive coverage compared to traditional Medicare plans or discount services.
  • Coverage at your eye doctor’s office, a retail location, or online: Flexibility is key, and with VSP, you can use your coverage in the way that's most convenient for you.
  • Use your plan the same day you buy it: Immediate coverage means that you can start benefiting from your plan right away.
  • Our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee lets you buy and use your plan with confidence: VSP wants you to feel secure in your purchase, ensuring satisfaction with their services.
  • Low out-of-pocket costs: Keeping your costs low is a priority, making eye care more accessible.
  • Keep your VSP doctor or find one in our nationwide network: Whether you're attached to your current eye doctor or looking for a new one, VSP has a vast network to choose from.

Cost: Contact for More Info

VSP encourages potential customers to reach out directly to get more detailed pricing information based on their specific needs.

Brand: Humana

Specs: Vision Coverage at an Affordable Price

Humana is another strong contender in the vision insurance market. They offer:

  • Vision coverage at an affordable price: Humana aims to make vision insurance accessible to everyone.
  • Compare plan options and enroll online: They provide a user-friendly online platform where you can compare different plans and enroll in the one that suits you best.
  • Choose vision and dental coverage together, and you could save: Humana offers the option to bundle vision and dental insurance, potentially saving you money.

Cost: Individual Vision Plans Starting at Just $12* a Month

Humana's vision insurance plans are competitively priced, with individual plans starting at a low monthly rate.

Brand: eHealth

Specs: Specialized Coverage for Eye Care Expenses

eHealth offers vision insurance that helps manage eye care expenses, providing coverage for services that are not usually included in regular medical insurance. Here are some features of eHealth's vision insurance:

  • Routine vision care and preventive care: Regular eye exams and preventive care are often covered, helping you maintain good eye health.
  • Allowance for prescription eyewear if necessary: If you need glasses or contact lenses, eHealth's vision insurance may provide an allowance towards the cost.
  • Discounts on LASIK and other vision correction surgeries: As these procedures become more common, some vision insurance plans, including eHealth's, offer discounts.
  • Vision insurance is not just for eye diseases: It's important to note that eye diseases are typically covered under medical insurance, not vision insurance.

Cost: Vision Plans Start as Low as $9.00 per Month

eHealth's vision plans are affordable, with a range of pricing to fit individual needs and budgets.

Brand: Direct Vision Insurance

Specs: Unlock Affordable Vision Benefits

Direct Vision Insurance partners with EyeMed and VSP providers to offer plans with no waiting periods and low costs. Their plans include:

  • Low-cost premiums (monthly charge): Direct Vision Insurance focuses on affordability.
  • No waiting periods: You can take advantage of your benefits immediately after signing up.
  • Robust allowance on frames and lenses: They offer a generous allowance to help cover the costs of glasses or contacts.
  • No age restrictions and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee: They aim to cater to all age groups and give you peace of mind with a satisfaction guarantee.
  • Flexible plan designs: Direct Vision Insurance offers plans that can be tailored to your needs.

Cost: Contact Company for More Info

For specific pricing, Direct Vision Insurance invites interested individuals to get in touch with them directly.

Brand: Stride

Specs: Health Insurance for Less Than $10/Month

Stride is not a typical vision insurance provider, but they do offer affordable health insurance that can include vision benefits. With Stride, you can:

  • Receive personalized recommendations: Stride offers tailored plan recommendations based on your information and needs.
  • Enjoy a simple application and enrollment process: Their streamlined process makes it easy to search, compare, apply, and enroll in health plans.
  • Benefit from unbiased advisors: Stride's advisors help you find the right plan without working on commission, ensuring you only get what you need.

Cost: Prices Vary Based on a Number of Factors

Stride offers various plans at different coverage levels, and prices will vary based on your income and the plan you choose.

When it comes to vision insurance, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Your choice will depend on your individual requirements, budget, and whether you want to combine vision insurance with other types of coverage. By comparing the brands and specs outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and invest in the right vision insurance plan that will ensure you and your family maintain healthy vision without breaking the bank. Remember to reach out to the companies directly for the most accurate and tailored pricing information.