FSA- HSA
An HSA or FSA account can help you pay for out-of-pocket medical, dental and vision expenses. For vision care, this includes:
- Eye exams
- New glasses
- Prescription sunglasses
- Contact lenses
- Eyewear and eyecare accessories
- Contact lens solutions
- Eye drops
- Glasses wipes and sprays
- Safety goggles with prescription
- sports masks with prescription lenses
- Surgical procedures (LASIK)
You also can use your plan to cover your spouse’s and children’s expenses, or any expenses incurred by your dependents (as listed on this year’s tax return.) Let Boerne Vision Center know that you are using a HSA/FSA card and we can provide a printed or email an itemized receipt to submit for reimbursement or tax purposes.
EYE EXAM
In order to purchase eyeglasses with FSA funds, a valid prescription from an eye doctor is required. You do not need a prescription from Boerne Vision Center or an appointment with us to shop at our store. Come by anytime during open hours!
We do recommend an appointment for an eye exam with us if you do not have a valid prescription. Book an appointment now! Appointments tends to book up at the end of the year, so don’t procrastinate! An annual eye exam with an eye doctor measures how sharp your vision is and assesses other parts of the eye that reflect your overall health.
PRESCRIPTION EYEGLASSES
Your FSA funds will cover any type of prescription lens, including bifocal, progressive and specialty lenses (safety or sports goggles). Blue-block, Anti-reflective and scratch-resistant coatings are covered, so they can be added to any lens. The funds will also cover eyeglass frames (without lenses).
Using your FSA dollars for prescription eyeglasses is an excellent investment. Even if you typically wear contact lenses, having a pair of backup glasses in case of emergency is wise.
SUNGLASSES
When shopping for sunglasses, it’s important to note that FSA will only cover prescription sunglasses lenses. Funds can be applied to polarized, mirrored and photochromic lenses, as well as specialty lenses for specific sports.
Non-prescription eyewear like fashion sunglasses without prescription lenses cannot be paid for using an FSA or HSA, because it is not classed as a medical expense.
READING GLASSES
If you’re in need of reading glasses, you’ll be happy to know that your FSA dollars will cover the cost. While both prescription and non-prescription lenses are FSA eligible, over-the-counter reading glasses that you get at the drug store will have to be submitted for reimbursement.
CONTACT LENSES
Contact lenses are FSA or HSA eligible too. Daily and short-term disposable lenses are available, as well as monthly and extended-wear lenses to fit every preference.
Bifocal, multifocal and toric lenses for astigmatism make it possible to correct more complex vision conditions.
Colored prescription contacts are covered, but colored contact lenses that do not correct vision are not covered.
EYECARE ACCESSORIES
This includes the items needed to clean and care for your glasses or contact lenses. Saline and cleaning solution for your contact lenses, and even cleanser and wipes for your eyeglasses, are covered by your FSA/ HSA funds.
EYE DROPS AND EYELID HYGIENE
Dry eye symptoms or seasonal allergies affecting your eyes? FSA funds will cover eye drops and ointments to soothe your itchy eyes and restore comfortable vision. Eyelid warm compresses, eyelid cleaning foams, sprays or wipes, eye drops for allergy, or dry eye relief can be purchased over the counter or in our office using your FSA card.
SUNGLASSES
You may require surgery, such as LASIK, radial keratotomy and cataract surgery, to treat a vision defect. If so, the medical expense of the procedure is eligible for reimbursement through your FSA.
The details of coverage may vary depending on the procedure, so it’s recommended that you consult with your insurance representative and your eye surgeon to confirm the details of your particular case.
WHAT DOES FSA ELIBIBLE MEAN?
Eligible FSA expenses are health care costs not covered by insurance. Though each individual employer’s plan differs, a variety of items and services may be included. You also can use your plan to cover your spouse’s and children’s expenses, or any expenses incurred by your dependents (as listed on this year’s tax return.)
Most out-of-pocket expenses are covered, including copays, deductibles, vision supplies, wearable products and medical equipment. It’s wise to confirm the specifics of your own account with your plan’s administrator before making any large purchases.
HOW DOES AN FSA WORK?
If your employer provides an FSA, you are able to deposit pre-tax dollars into this account and then spend the money on eligible health care products and services. FSA contributions are exempt from federal income tax, federal unemployment tax and Social Security and Medicare taxes.
In 2021, you can contribute a maximum of $2,750 to an individual FSA account and $5,000 to dependent care FSAs. You can also change your FSA contribution amounts if you have certain qualifying events.
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Reference: https://www.allaboutvision.com/faq/fsa-hsa-for-eyeglasses/