VSP (Vision Service Plan) is one of the most popular vision insurance providers, offering coverage for eye exams, frames, lenses, and more. Maximizing your benefits is vital because it ensures you get the most value from your plan. Buying glasses online has its perks, like convenience and a wide selection, but you need to be mindful of how to use your vision benefits correctly. Simple mistakes can cost you more out of pocket or even leave you without proper coverage.
This article will explain five common mistakes people make when purchasing VSP glasses online and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Not Understanding Your Coverage
One of the biggest pitfalls when buying VSP online glasses is not fully understanding what your plan covers. Most VSP plans include an annual eye exam, a frame allowance, and lens coverage. However, the amount of coverage varies depending on your specific plan. For example, some plans may fully cover basic lenses, while others only provide partial coverage for upgrades like anti-glare or blue-light-blocking coatings.
It’s also important to know what isn’t covered by your VSP plan. For example, high-end designer frames, specialty lens upgrades, or additional pairs of glasses might not be covered under your benefits. If you don’t check these details beforehand, you could pay more than expected.
Mistake 2: Ignoring the In-Network Providers
Using in-network providers ensures you get the most from your VSP benefits. Many online retailers are VSP partners, which means they handle your paperwork and claims, reducing stress. In-network providers often have special discounts that help you stretch your frame allowance, letting you upgrade your glasses without extra costs.
Shopping out-of-network can lead to higher expenses. If the retailer isn’t affiliated with VSP, you’ll likely have to submit claims, which can be time-consuming and confusing. Even worse, some claims may get denied, leaving you responsible for the full amount, so stick with VSP-partnered stores when purchasing glasses to avoid these headaches.
Mistake 3: Failing to Check for Required Documentation
When buying VSP glasses online, having the correct documentation is important to avoid claim issues. This usually includes your prescription and an itemized receipt listing the frames, lenses, and any coatings or upgrades. Some online retailers will provide this automatically, while others may require you to request it.
Many claims get delayed or denied due to simple errors, such as missing receipts or incomplete documentation. To avoid these mistakes, double-check that the receipt matches your purchase and that all required information is included before submitting your claim. Keeping digital copies of everything can also help if you need to resubmit.
Mistake 4: Overlooking the Timing of Your Benefits
VSP benefits usually run annually, with most plans allowing one eye exam and one frame allowance per year. However, not all benefits are reset on January 1st; some plans are reset based on the enrollment date or another schedule. If you know your benefit period, you’ll avoid missing out on your coverage.
Also, if your benefits are about to reset, it’s a good time to use your frame allowance and other perks. For example, if you haven’t used your benefits yet for the year, ordering glasses before the period ends ensures you don’t lose out. On the other hand, if you just renewed your coverage, you might want to plan larger purchases carefully to maximize your allowance across the full year.
Mistake 5: Not Utilizing Additional Discounts or Offers
Many online retailers that work with VSP provide extra discounts, which can significantly affect your final cost. These might include sales on frames, free coatings, or price reductions on lens upgrades. When you combine these offers with your VSP benefits, you can maximize savings.
VSP members also often have access to exclusive promotions. Some online retailers provide special offers just for VSP users, like percentage-off discounts or upgrades at no extra cost. When shopping, enter your VSP membership details at checkout to see if any member-only deals apply. Keeping an eye on these offers ensures you get the best possible price on your VSP online glasses.
Conclusion
Using your VSP benefits wisely when buying glasses helps maximize savings and avoid unnecessary costs. Avoid the mistakes mentioned above, stay within your budget, and plan to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience with your vision plan.