If you are looking for an intelligent way to meet your vision expenses, consider HSAs and FSAs. Health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible savings accounts (FSAs) are accounts in which you save money directly from your paycheck. The advantage here is that you do not pay taxes on the money. These accounts provide a great way to save money on every dollar you deposit. You get to use the money to meet health-related costs you would have spent on either way.
 

Though similar, HSAs and FSAs have unique features in helping people meet their vision expenses. Depending on your specific situation, you might qualify to have either of these accounts. Consult with your employer or financial advisor to know the best account for you.
 

With either of these accounts, you can pay for the following vision products, services, or health-related expenses:
 

Prescription Eyeglasses

Most people think of prescription eyeglasses when talking about vision-related expenses. Both HSAs and FSAs can cover the cost related to acquiring prescription glasses. Soon after getting the prescription, the funds in your HSA or FSA account will be used to buy your lenses and frames. The funds can also cover any coatings, lens enhancements, or special materials included in the prescription.
 

Prescription Sunglasses

Apart from prescription eyeglasses, funds in your HSA or FSA account can cover the cost of acquiring prescription sunglasses. This is regardless of whether you will use your sunglasses every day or for activities outdoors. If your eye doctor considers that sunglasses will help protect your eyes from harmful rays, then you can acquire them.
 

Eye Exam Copays

Whether you have an HSA or an FSA, you can use your funds on eye exam copays. So, if you choose to visit an ophthalmologist or an optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam, you can use funds in your account to pay for the expenses. If you want to maintain good vision for years to come, you must go for regular eye exams. These exams will also detect eye-related complications in their early stages and address them before they get serious.

Contact Lenses

There are different types of contact lenses. The most common ones include:

• Daily wear contact lenses.

• Extended wear contact lenses.
• Disposable contact lenses.
• Toric lenses.
• Multifocal lenses.

If you require any of the above, the funds in your HSA or FSA account will cover their acquisition costs.

Contact Lens Solution

Since HSA and FSA accounts cover contact lenses and their related expenses, they also cover the lens solution. Contact lenses come with cleaning solutions and other supplies, which help to keep the lenses in good working order. These supplies also contribute to the safety and health of the eyes.
 

Without a doubt, you can use your HSA and FSA for your vision expenses. However, you need to be up to date with the limitations and rules that apply in your case. Consult with your healthcare plan administrator to know of any additional features you qualify for or adjustments in your plan.
 

For more on using your HSA and FSA for vision expenses, visit Alpha Eye Group at our offices in Philadelphia, Wyomissing, Bethlehem Twp, Doylestown, Plymouth Meeting, or King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Call (215) 698-7760, (610) 376-7272, (610) 866-1000, (215) 878-7181, (215) 230-4060, (610) 941-9780, or (610) 265-3100 to schedule an appointment today.