Contact lenses can be more convenient and comfortable than eyeglasses, but also more expensive. You can save several dollars without compromising quality if you apply certain tricks to order contacts online. Here are six useful ways to pinch pennies on contact lens purchases.
1. Buy in Bulk
The cost per box is greatly reduced when buying a supply of contact lenses in bulk. Multiple retailers have discounts for bulk orders, especially if you order out for a six-month or year’s supply. Bulk ordering means lower shipping costs and infrequent ordering, enabling you to save time and money.
2. Manufacturer Rebates
Typically, many contact lens manufacturers rebate upon purchase of a given quantity of boxes. Depending on the offer, these rebates can reduce the overall cost by $50 or more. Check the manufacturer’s website or ask your care provider about rebate programs available. Just follow the instructions carefully so that you do get your savings.
3. Check Online for Better Deals
Online retailers generally charge lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores due to lower overhead costs. Vueoptix is one of the popular ones that run promotions and competitive pricing all the time—price-shop among several websites to get the best offer before purchasing. Try to scope out free shipping while doing so in order to save more.
4. Apply for Vision Insurance or FSA/HSA
If you do have vision insurance, check to see whether any of your benefits may cover a portion, or even all, of your contact lens expenses. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) allow you to utilize pre-tax dollars for contacts, thus reducing your net cost. Just remember to use those FSA funds before they expire at the end of the year.
5. Choose Generic or Store Brands
Brand-name lenses sell really well, but many generic or store brands provide the same quality for a lesser price. Ask your optometrist whether there are any alternative lenses that would fit your prescription and budget. Generally, these weighted alternatives are produced by the same manufacturers as the name-brand lenses but sold at a very low price under their name.
Saving money on contact lenses doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or eye health. An eye exam in Calgary will help you find the perfect contacts. The idea here is smart shopping, where you discount shop, reclaim rebates, and use insurance benefits to keep your vision clear at a low price. Always speak to your eye care provider before switching brands or suppliers about the best for your eyes. These tips would come in handy to help you sustain the convenience of contact lenses while keeping your costs down. 