When Is the Best Time to Get Vision Insurance?

When looking for a vision insurance plan, ideally you’d be able to enroll in vision insurance whenever you need it. After all, our eyes are a vital part of our everyday lives and we’d all like to be able to use vision insurance whenever the need arises…right? Well, the truth is a little more complicated than that—personal circumstances, the time of year, and even the method of enrollment can all determine when you can get eye insurance.

There isn’t a single best time that applies to everyone, but here are a few things to consider when getting vision insurance. 

Buying Vision Insurance on Your Own

Purchasing your own vision insurance is perhaps the easiest, most accommodating option available, as buying a vision plan on your own allows you to literally enroll anytime, anywhere. For example, you could enroll in a VSP® Individual Vision Plan this very second and start using your new vision benefits as soon as the next business day as soon as today—all without ever having to fill out lengthy eye insurance forms or talk to a human resource professional. This makes buying a vision insurance plan on your own a terrific solution for those who are self-employed, retired, aging out of their parent’s insurance, or don’t get vision insurance through their employer. Use the VSP Vision Plan Wizard to see the VSP Individual Vision Plans available in your area. 

Getting Vision Insurance Through an Employer

Getting vision insurance through an employer can get a little trickier time-wise. If your employer offers eye insurance through work and you plan on taking advantage of it, you’ll most likely have to wait until the annual enrollment period to opt in to a plan and enroll. This typically runs from November 1 to December 15 and is the time you normally select your health benefits for the coming year. You may, however, be eligible to enroll in a vision plan outside of this window if you have a qualifying life event, such as:

  • A recent divorce
  • A new baby
  • A death of someone on the current policy

A change in residence can also be a qualifying event for insurance:

  • Moving to a new zip code or county
  • Moving to the U.S.
  • Students moving to or from school
  • Seasonal workers
  • Transitional living situations like going from a shelter to an apartment

You generally have 60 days after a qualifying event to apply for new insurance. If your company offers vision insurance, be sure to speak with your human resources department to see if you qualify for these or other life events. 

You really can’t go wrong either way—getting vision insurance on your own or through an employer are both options that will help you care for your eyes for years to come. Whichever method you choose, your eyes will thank you. 

If you could benefit from vision insurance, VSP offers vision insurance plans and savings direct to individuals that provide access to high-quality eye care and eyewear at the lowest out-of-pocket costs. Enrollment is simple, learn more about VSP Individual Vision Plans and find the right eye doctor for you. 

Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plan’s social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Your vision. Your way.

Not covered for vision? Get an individual plan, customized for you – including where you want to use it: at the doctor, in a retail location, or even online.

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