For many, eyeglasses are a necessity for clear vision. Of course, like everything else in this world, eyeglasses cost money. Sometimes, they cost lots of money!
You don’t have to spend a fortune to be able to see, though. There are a few different ways you can save money on eyeglasses.
Shop Around
Just because you’ve been going to the same optometrist since you were 12 doesn’t mean you have to keep going there. The first step to save money on eyeglasses would be to shop around. Call all of the optometrists in your area and get quotes for the cost of a basic prescription eyeglasses exam. If all of the quotes are out of your range, ask if there is anything you can do to get it lowered. Smaller privately owned optometry offices may even be willing to let you make payments toward an eye exam
Don’t Forget Your Insurance
Some people forget that health insurance plans often cover the cost of eye exams. Letting your insurance company pick up at least some of the tab is a great way to save money on eyeglasses. Some insurance plans may also cover part of the cost of your eyeglasses or contacts as well. Even if it doesn’t, you can always take your prescription and…
Shop Online
I recently bought two pairs of eyeglasses online, and I can say that I am nothing but happy with them. They’re just as good as any glasses that I’d get from my optometrist, except I only paid around $18. For both pairs. Including shipping! Going online is one of the best ways to save money on eyeglasses. You can find stylish frames for as little as $7, and online eyeglasses websites also offer additional discounts through coupon codes and frequent sales. If you want to buy your eyeglasses online, just ask your optometrist for your prescription when you get your eyes checked. By law, they have to give you a copy. If it’s been a while since you got your eyes checked, you might still be able to get your prescription – just ask.
Nix the Extras
There are so many extras and upgrades that you can get for eyeglasses and lenses these days. Salespeople will often try to push you into getting these upgrades, but there’s a good chance that you won’t need them at all. For instance, you probably don’t need the latest NASA rated super strength material for your lenses, unless you’re an actual astronaut. You probably won’t need super paper thin lenses either, unless you’re prescription is so bad that it actually looks like you strapped some coke bottles to your eyes. The only lens upgrade you might actually want to consider is an anti-scratch coating, but even that isn’t really necessary, provided you take proper care of your glasses.