Use It or Lose It: How to Spend Your FSA or HSA on Eye Care Before Year-End

The end of the year is coming fast, and for many families in Round Rock, Pflugerville, Hutto, and Georgetown, that means money left in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). With most FSAs, any balance you don't use by the deadline is gone.

The good news? Eye care is one of the easiest and most useful ways to spend those dollars. Here is what qualifies and how to plan your visit before the holiday rush.

FSA vs. HSA: What's the Difference?

• FSA (Flexible Spending Account). Usually "use it or lose it" by the end of your plan year, which is often December 31. Some employers offer a short grace period or let you carry over a limited amount. Check with your HR department or benefits portal for your exact rules.
• HSA (Health Savings Account). Your balance rolls over from year to year and stays with you. There is no rush to spend it, but it is still a smart, pre-tax way to pay for eye care you need now.

Both accounts use pre-tax money, so you save what you would have paid in taxes on every dollar you spend.

What Eye Care Can You Pay for With Your FSA or HSA?

• Comprehensive eye exams, including eye exams for kids
• Contact lens exams and fittings
• Prescription eyeglasses, including frames and lenses
• Prescription sunglasses
• Contact lenses and contact lens solution
• A backup pair of glasses or computer glasses with your prescription
• Medical eye visits for issues like dry eye, allergies, or eye infections
• Approved treatments and prescription eye drops
• LASIK and other vision correction surgery

Items that usually do not qualify include non-prescription sunglasses and purely cosmetic products. When in doubt, check your plan administrator's list of eligible expenses.

Smart Ways to Use Your Remaining FSA Balance

1. Stock up on contacts. Buy a full year's supply of contact lenses. Many manufacturers offer rebates on annual supplies, which stretches your dollars further. Silo Eye Care also offers a discount and free shipping when you purchase a year's worth of contact lenses. Order your contacts online or call us at (512) 240-7766 for details.
2. Get a second pair of glasses. A backup pair, prescription sunglasses for the Texas sun, or a dedicated pair for computer work are all great uses of FSA funds.
3. Schedule exams for the whole family. Kids need regular eye exams as they grow, and many vision problems don't have obvious symptoms.
4. Upgrade your lenses. Anti-glare coatings, blue light filtering, or progressive lenses can be paid for with FSA or HSA funds when they are part of prescription eyewear.
5. Address that problem you've been putting off. Chronic dry eye, itchy allergy eyes, or new floaters all deserve a medical eye visit.

Don't Forget Your Vision Insurance Benefits Too

Many vision plans reset their benefits on January 1. If you haven't used your exam, frame, or contact lens allowance this year, you may lose it. Combining your vision insurance with your FSA or HSA is often the best way to cover what insurance doesn't, like lens upgrades or a second pair. See our insurance and payments page for the plans we accept.

Book Your Eye Exam Before the December Rush

Appointments fill up quickly in November and December as everyone tries to use their benefits. Glasses also take time to make, so schedule early to make sure your order is complete before your plan year ends.

If you live in Round Rock, Pflugerville, Hutto, or Georgetown, schedule your eye exam online with Dr. Patel at Silo Eye Care or call (512) 240-7766. Already have a current prescription? Browse our optical or order contacts online.

Frequently Asked Questions About FSA and HSA Eye Care

Can I use my FSA for glasses?

Yes. Prescription eyeglasses, including frames and lenses, are generally FSA and HSA eligible.

Are contact lenses FSA eligible?

Yes. Prescription contact lenses and contact lens solution are generally eligible expenses.

Can I use my HSA for an eye exam?

Yes. Routine and medical eye exams are generally eligible for both HSA and FSA funds.

What happens to my FSA money if I don't use it?

With most FSAs, unused funds are forfeited after the plan year ends, unless your employer offers a grace period or carryover. HSA funds never expire.

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