Invest in Eyewear Before the Year is Over
Classic Vision Care offers high-quality year-end eyewear to Kennesaw and East Cobb — and it’s best to get it before January rolls around.
December is the best time to get new glasses or lenses. If you act quickly, you can still get them on your existing insurance, FSA, or HSA plan.
Don’t Let Vision Benefits Expire
The right plan or account means you won’t have to pay out of pocket for glasses, lenses, eye tests, or even lens solution.
However, many vision insurance plans have benefits that reset on New Year’s Day, meaning you can miss out if you don’t act quickly. You must also closely monitor your flexible spending and health savings accounts’ perks.
Employers can “roll over” up to $660 from an FSA into the following year, but HSA funds often carry over in full. That said, don’t leave their benefits on the table, and don’t be afraid to use FSA for glasses if you need them.
Why Year-End Is the Perfect Time for New Eyewear
However, insurance isn’t the only reason to get new glasses or lenses before New Year’s rolls around — there are plenty of others, both practical and personal.
Here’s a quick look at three common reasons to consider new eyewear:
Prescription Updates
Many people choose the end of the year for their comprehensive eye exams and discover that they need a new prescription. The faster you replace your eyewear, the better, though many people wait for their holiday bonus before buying.
Holiday Promotions
Many Georgia eyewear retailers also offer product discounts for the holidays. You might find it easier to afford top-quality options — and there will be an even wider selection as new products roll in and retailers adapt to demand.
New Year, New You
On a more symbolic note, the end of the year is a great time to refresh your style. You’ll stand out more in holiday photographs, and even start your new year with a renewed focus on self-care.
Eyewear Options Worth the Investment
Eyeglasses insurance coverage in Atlanta, East Cobb, and other major communities across Georgia varies based on your plan, but these generally include at least the following:
Eyeglasses
Though many people default to lenses, high-quality eyeglasses are still a stylish, popular option. In fact, you can easily find glasses from Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and other top fashion brands.
Eyewear retailers stock hundreds of glasses options for adults and children alike. No matter their size or shape, all models should be strong enough to withstand everyday wear and tear.
Lenses
Contact lenses are a fast-growing alternative to “traditional” glasses. Many types are available, but the most common are “daily” lenses that you clean every night.
Some people require “hard” lenses with superior vision quality, or extended-wear models, which they can wear non-stop for a week without cleaning.
Your doctor will always recommend the lens type that’s best for your eyes.
Prescription Sunglasses
You shouldn’t have to sacrifice being able to see clearly to stay safe from the sun.
Luckily, most vision plans include prescription sunglasses — you’ll need these for summer if you live anywhere in Georgia (especially Atlanta or Marietta).
Ray-Bans and other prescription brands are an excellent investment at any time of year, and still help with winter’s UV rays.
Maximizing Your FSA/HSA Dollars
Investing in new HSA- and FSA-eligible eyewear is a great use of your plan — you can’t always guarantee how much will roll over to next year.
These plans usually include the following:
- Eye tests (regular and contact lens exams)
- Prescription eyeglasses
- Prescription sunglasses
- Contact lenses (disposable/specialty)
- Reading glasses (even non-prescription)
- Lens upgrades (e.g., protective coatings)
However, always check your FSA or HSA’s terms.
You also have to be careful about how you use these plans. Here are our tips for making the most of your allowance:
- Use your vision benefits before the end of the year
- Watch out for any end-of-year or seasonal sales
- Upgrade your lenses with filters or extra coatings
- Stock up on eligible supplies, such as cleaning solution
- Remember, prescription sunglasses are included
- Get backup glasses or specialized extra pairs
- Book your exam before they fill up at year’s end
Your FSA or HSA should extend to nearly anything eyewear-related; just pick the right time to use them.
Preparing for the New Year With Clear Vision
The New Year is a perfect time to take steps towards your own health. There’s no bad time to embrace self-care, but January 1st is all about new beginnings.
However, going the extra mile to arrange new eyewear during December lets you avoid the rush of January eye appointments. You’ll also be able to debut the new style during your holiday celebrations.
Getting new eyewear doesn’t have to be a practical decision; it can also be purely personal. Even if your prescription is the same, you could still take an opportunity to replace scratched lenses or loose frames.
Alternatively, you can look into lens upgrades, such as protective coatings, which aren’t always necessary but can make your vision even sharper.
Prevention & Long-Term Eye Health Strategies
Your prescription can still change over time, even if you’re proactive about getting new glasses and lens upgrades. Glasses and lenses are never an instant fix; you’ll still need to look after your eyes themselves.
Here are our tips for keeping your eyes as healthy as possible:
- Use your benefits for annual comprehensive eye tests
- Take out and clean contacts according to their schedule
- Similarly, wash your hands before handling your lenses
- Wear sunglasses all year; winter still has harsh UV rays
- Aim for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays
- Take brief breaks away from screens every 20 minutes
- Use blue-light lenses to lessen eye strain from screens
- Leafy greens can help prevent macular degeneration
- Eat foods high in omega-3, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C
- Wear protective eyewear during sports, yardwork, etc.
Always contact your eye doctor when you notice any changes in your vision, even if they’re temporary, as these could be the first sign of serious eye disease.
Upgrade Your Eyewear Before the Year Ends
Don’t wait until the New Year to get new glasses. If you do, you could miss out on great eyewear deals or face long waits for an eye exam.
For a new pair of glasses or a comprehensive eye test, book an appointment with Classic Vision Care before the year is out.