Best Vision Insurance Companies

Unless your or your spouse’s employer offers vision insurance as a benefit, you can purchase it on your own. Vision insurance tends to be more affordable and easier to understand than health insurance because it’s more limited in what it covers. Still, several factors might point you toward one vision insurance company over another.  

We’ve researched the best vision insurance plans, which feature affordable premiums, excellent coverage options, positive customer reviews, and network availability. Here’s a closer look.

Best vision insurance companies and plans

Here are the best vision insurance companies offering affordable coverage for your vision care needs.

Click an option below to jump to the review:

• VSP
• UnitedHealthcare
• EyeMed
• Anthem
• Humana
• Aetna
• Ameritas

VSP

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Why we picked it

With more than 80 million members and a network of over 36,000 providers, VSP is the largest vision insurance company in the U.S. It offers several plan options, but not all plans may be available in every state. It’s also more expensive for those who wear contacts since you can’t get contacts and backup glasses in the same year. 

VSP’s EyewearOnly plan is its most basic option and a solid choice if you already have an up-to-date prescription and just need hardware coverage. The EasyOptions plan is the same as its Standard plan but with your choice of full coverage ($0 copay) of tinted or progressive lenses or an additional $80 toward frames. 

If you’re willing to pay a bit higher premium for top-of-the-line glasses, VSP’s Enhanced plan offers $0 copays on scratch- and impact-resistant lenses, plus a lower copay than the Standard plan on progressive lenses ($55 vs. $175) and anti-glare coatings ($15 vs. $85). 

• 4 vision insurance plans covering a wide range of needs. 
• Must select coverage for glasses or contacts, not both in the same year.
• The largest vision insurance company in the country.

More about VSP

• No waiting periods
• Not-for-profit company
• Extra discounts on specific eyewear, additional glasses, and LASIK

UnitedHealthcare

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Why we picked it

UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurance companies in the country, so it’s no surprise it offers vision insurance, too. If you’re also looking for dental coverage, you can add vision insurance as a rider to your UnitedHealthcare dental policy. 

This can be a terrific option if you wear contacts but also want backup glasses. You can choose from two plans: one that covers glasses and contacts or a plan that covers just one or the other. 

If you’re buying contact lenses, be sure to check UnitedHealthcare’s list of “select” contact lenses first to see whether your lenses are on this list. If they are, they’re covered in full rather than the typical arrangement, which requires you to pay any additional amount over an allowance. 

• Choose from 2 vision insurance plans.
• Purchase separately or as a rider on a dental insurance policy.
• Choose a plan that covers glasses or contacts, or one that covers both. 

More about UnitedHealthcare

• Offers discounts on LASIK
• High ratings for customer satisfaction
• No out-of-pocket expense for “select” contacts 
• Plan option for purchasing contacts and glasses together

EyeMed

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Why we picked it

EyeMed’s insurance plan is typical in that you can only use your eyewear allowance toward glasses or contacts each year. Even so, this plan may be a solid option for wearers of contacts because you can purchase a pair of glasses at a 40% discount in addition to contacts. 

If you’re unsure whether you need glasses or contacts but know you need an eye exam, EyeMed’s Healthy plan might be suitable. Your eye exam is covered in full with no copay for in-network providers, and if you need glasses or contacts, you’ll get a discount rather than a set allowance. 

• 3 coverage options in some states. 
• Lowest-level option only offers discounts on eyewear, not an allowance.
• Allowance applies to contacts or glasses in a given year, not both.

More about EyeMed

• 20% off prescription sunglasses
• 40% off a second pair of glasses
• Plans may not be available in all states

Anthem

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Why we picked it

If you place a high emphasis on quality customer service and live in one of the states where Anthem offers vision insurance policies, you might prefer working with this company. 

As of October 2023, it’s only available in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin. 

Anthem offers a jaw-dropping eight plans to choose from. If you dig into the details (somewhat difficult because the webpage is difficult to navigate), you’ll see each plan offers different allowance amounts for premium lenses, making it easy to dial in your coverage. 

• Offers 8 vision insurance policies.
• Plans may vary and are only available to people in 14 U.S. states. 
• Anthem doesn’t disclose much information about these plans online.

More about Anthem

• 40% off a second pair of glasses
• Many plan options
• $800 discount with certain LASIK providers

Humana

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Why we picked it

Most vision insurance plans offer an allowance toward glasses and contacts each year, and if you exceed that limit, you pay out of pocket for the full difference. 

That’s not the case with Humana’s vision insurance, which offers a 15% to 20% discount off your out-of-pocket expenses above this allowance amount. 

A downside is these plans are limited. You get one plan choice—if one is available at all. Only a handful of states are listed in its drop-down menu when you search for a quote, and even some of those options—such as Alaska—return an error message saying it’s unavailable. 

• 1 coverage option: the Vision Plus plan.
• If you exceed your coverage allowance for glasses or contacts, only pay 80% to 85% of the remaining cost.
• Plan availability is sparse in certain states.

More about Humana

• Offers LASIK discounts
• Many choices for in-network providers
• Can purchase with health care and hearing insurance
• Pay 80% to 85% co-insurance above allowance amount

Aetna

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Why we picked it

As with Humana’s vision insurance coverage, you might be more inclined to choose a higher-priced option above your allowance amount with Aetna’s vision insurance plan. 

If you exceed these limits, you’ll pay 80% of the cost of glasses and 95% of the cost of contact lenses rather than the full 100% other insurers stipulate. 

The biggest downside of Aetna’s vision insurance is you can’t purchase it on its own. It’s only available for those buying a dental insurance policy—also wise if you don’t have coverage—and only in certain states. That’s a shame; Aetna’s customer service reviews are excellent.

• 1 vision insurance plan: the Aetna Vision Preferred policy.
• You can’t purchase Aetna vision insurance on its own, only as a part of dental policy.
• Discounts on glasses or contacts if you exceed allowance amount.

More about Aetna

• 40% off additional prescription glasses
• 15% discount off certain LASIK procedures
• Pay 80% to 95% co-insurance above the allowance amount
• Highest-rated for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power
• Unavailable in: Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Virginia, or Washington

Ameritas

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Why we picked it

Ameritas is a large corporation offering various financial and investment services, including vision insurance coverage. It partners with other companies, such as VSP and EyeMed, to sell policies that can look different depending on where you live. 

Even so, it’s worth checking your options to ensure you’ve covered all your bases.   

• Plan options vary depending on where you live. 
• Partners with VSP and EyeMed to offer vision insurance plans.
• No waiting period with most vision insurance plans. 

More about Ameritas

• Most plans have no waiting periods
• Can purchase dental insurance with a vision policy
• Coverage options vary by state

What are the best ways to enroll in a vision insurance plan?

Here are six ways you can enroll in a vision insurance plan.

1. Employer-sponsored plans. Almost half of U.S. employers offer vision insurance as a part of their regular benefits package, where most people get coverage. If that’s not an option for you, or if you don’t like your employer’s vision insurance plan, you can apply for and purchase your own coverage. 
2. Direct enrollment. If your employer doesn’t offer vision insurance or you don’t like your employer’s plan, you can apply for and purchase your own coverage from an insurance company. This option lets you choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Contact the insurance company to enroll, provide basic information about yourself, and select a policy.
3. Insurance brokers or agents. You can work with an insurance broker or agent who can help you compare plans and guide you through enrollment. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and budget.
4. Membership associations. Some professional organizations, alumni associations, and other groups offer vision insurance plans to their members. Check with associations you belong to see whether they provide vision coverage and, if so, whether you’re eligible.
5. Federal or state marketplaces. If you have children, you may be able to purchase vision insurance for them on your state’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Insurers aren’t required to offer vision insurance for adults on the ACA marketplace, but some do. 
6. Family plans. If you have a family member with a vision insurance plan, you may be able to join their plan as a dependent. This option can be convenient and cost-effective, especially if the primary insured has an employer-sponsored plan.

Gathering quotes and applying for vision insurance is a quick process. Once you decide on an option, completing your policy purchase may only take a few minutes. But consider any mandatory waiting periods before using your coverage, which most insurers impose. 

Our expert’s advice

Chloe Moore

CFP®

When comparing vision insurance providers, check whether your current eye doctor is in-network or you’re comfortable switching to an in-network doctor. You should also compare waiting periods, deductibles, copays, and the claims or reimbursement process. Crunch the numbers and compare your out-of-pocket costs with and without insurance coverage. Vision insurance typically covers your exam, contact lens fitting (if applicable), glasses (frames and lenses), and contact lenses. If you don’t wear glasses or contacts or see an eye doctor often, vision insurance might not be worth the cost.

How to choose between the different types of vision insurance

Most vision insurance plans fall into three categories:

1. Standalone vision insurance. These plans are dedicated to vision care and are separate from your health insurance. They typically offer comprehensive coverage for eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and other vision care services. But they may have higher premiums than other options.
2. Vision discount plans. These aren’t insurance but offer a discount on vision services and equipment. They’re more limited and often cheaper, with an annual fee instead of monthly premiums.
3. Vision coverage included in health insurance. Some health insurance plans include vision coverage as part of their benefits package. This can be convenient because you don’t need to manage a separate vision insurance policy. However, coverage may be more limited compared to standalone plans.

The best vision insurance plans usually cover: 

• Annual eye exams
• Prescription glasses (including anti-reflective lenses, UV, or scratch-resistant coatings)
• Contact lenses

Many vision insurance plans do not cover:

• Multiple eye exams per year
• Nonprescription eyewear
• Treatments, surgeries, or medications for eye problems (such as dry eyes, glaucoma, or cataracts)

You can choose the best vision insurance plan by comparing these options as you shop around: 

• Coverage limits. Review the annual allowances for glasses, contacts, and other services to ensure they meet your needs.
• In-network providers. Check whether your preferred eye care providers are in the plan’s network.
• Premium costs. Compare how much you’ll pay each month or year across different plans to find a plan that fits your budget.
• Out-of-pocket expenses. Compare deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance costs when evaluating the total cost to ensure it’s worth it.
• Additional benefits. Some plans may offer discounts on LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

How to maximize your vision insurance benefits

Use these tips to make the most of your vision insurance plan: 

• Understand your plan details. Read through your vision insurance plan to understand what’s covered, what’s not, and what allowances you have. This will help you plan how to best use your benefits throughout the year. 
• Use in-network providers. Choosing an eye care professional within your plan’s network will lower your out-of-pocket costs.
• Schedule regular eye exams. Vision insurance plans include a free annual eye exam. If you don’t use this benefit, getting vision insurance likely won’t be worth it. Plus, eye exams can help detect glaucoma, cancer, and even multiple sclerosis (MS).  
• Use your full allowances. Vision insurance plans often have annual allowances for glasses or contact lenses. To get the most out of your plan, try to use your full allowance each policy year.
• Consider timing. If you require multiple vision services or products, consider spacing them out over different plan years to maximize your annual allowances and reduce out-of-pocket costs.

What are the common costs of a vision insurance policy?

Many vision insurance plans have no deductibles, but these are the costs you can expect to pay:

• Premium. The amount you pay each month or year to maintain your vision insurance coverage. 
• Co-pay. The fee you may pay for eye exams or lens fittings.
• Out-of-pocket expenses. The amount you may pay for products or services that exceed your plan’s allowances.

You can tell whether vision insurance is worth it by comparing your estimated out-of-pocket costs with and without insurance. 

This table shows the potential savings when comparing the costs of an annual eye exam, frames, and lenses with and without a vision insurance plan that costs $5 a month:

Expense	Without insurance	With insurance
Annual premium	$0	$60 ($5/month)
Eye exam	$100	$0
Glasses frames	$150	$20 ($150 – $130 allowance)
Glasses lenses	$150	$0 (fully covered)
Total annual cost	$400	$80
Potential savings	—	$320

In this example, having vision insurance would save you $320 on a single visit. But actual costs and savings will depend on your specific plan and vision care needs.

How to choose the best vision insurance plan

Selecting the right vision insurance plan doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Break down the process into manageable steps to make an informed choice.

Our expert recommends: Check the numbers

Chloe Moore

CFP®

One of the biggest mistakes with vision insurance is not running the numbers. Understanding your annual costs with and without insurance for each plan you’re evaluating is important. Also, consider the annual premium, copays, and deductibles. In some cases, vision insurance might only save you a small amount—or nothing at all.

Assess your vision care needs

First, get a handle on what your vision care costs.

• Out-of-pocket costs: Estimate how much you’d spend each year on eye exams, glasses, and contacts without insurance.
• Extras: Account for additional services or products you might want, such as anti-reflective lens coatings, LASIK surgery, or polarized prescription sunglasses.
• Backup glasses: If you wear contact lenses, remember the cost of a backup pair of glasses. Consider how often you’d like to replace them—if you primarily wear contacts and your prescription doesn’t change each year, you might only need to replace your glasses every few years.

Check provider network

Once you know what you’ll need, check whether your preferred eye care providers are in-network.

• In-network providers: Ensure your favorite eye doctor or optometrist is in the plan’s network.
• Exclusions: Scrutinize the list of services that aren’t covered to ensure the plan aligns with your needs.

Compare quotes and costs

After confirming your provider options, it’s time to look at the numbers.

• Monthly premiums: Collect quotes from various plans and calculate the annual cost.
• Copays and deductibles: Apply these to your estimated annual vision care expenses for an accurate comparison.

Evaluate and decide

Now, weigh your options.

• Cost-benefit analysis: Determine how much you’ll spend on vision care with and without insurance.
• Other factors: Don’t overlook additional elements, such as customer reviews and ease of claims processing.

Following these steps will provide you with the necessary information to select a vision insurance plan that best suits your needs.

FAQ

Is vision insurance worth it?

Vision care is considered an essential healthcare service if you have kids and is even included in ACA plans. For adults, it’s less clear-cut. Unlike health insurance, vision insurance is more limited, making it most useful for people who need glasses or contacts. 

If you don’t, it may be cheaper to forgo vision insurance. Your medical insurance should cover any medical problems, such as eye infections, cataracts, or glaucoma. The only benefit you would gain is a lower price on eye exams—but paying out of pocket for an annual exam may cost less than vision insurance.

Can I use vision insurance with other discounts?

It depends. Depending on the fine print, vision insurance and discount plans may not allow you to take advantage of discounts on top of your plan. Discounts from retailers and eye care centers vary in whether you can combine multiple discounts. 

How do I file a claim with vision insurance?

If you see an in-network provider, they can usually file a claim for you or offer you a discounted rate if you show them your membership card. If you see an out-of-network provider, you must submit an itemized receipt online or by mail with a claims form to get reimbursed. 

Can I add family members to my vision insurance plan?

Family vision insurance plans provide coverage for you, your spouse or domestic partner, and children—often at a lower cost than purchasing individual plans. Typically, everyone on the plan will have access to the same benefits and allowances. You can purchase family vision insurance through your employer (if offered) or directly from providers.

Can I buy an individual vision insurance plan if my employer offers one?

You’re not required to purchase vision insurance through your employer if it offers it, but some employers will share the cost. You can also buy a policy on your own. For example, some people use this to get glasses and contacts in the same year.

Recap of the best vision insurance