Don't Have Vision Insurance? Costco Does Eye Exams for $120 Less Than Average

When you're too sick to go to work, you may be forced into a doctor's office whether you want to go or not. However, unless something unusual arises, it's easy to push off a visit to the ophthalmologist to check your vision. If the reason you avoid eye exams has to do with a lack of vision insurance, Costco may be the answer.

Out of pocket

As of June 2023, the average cost of an eye exam without insurance is $194. On average, a basic eye exam at Costco will set you back by $64 to $70 without insurance. If you wear contact lenses, you'll pay around $104 to $120. The exact price you pay will depend, in part, on where you live.

If you have a Costco membership, you're free to have your exam and purchase eyeglasses or contacts from the retail giant. If you don't have a membership, you're still free to have your eyes examined. With so many online and storefront discount eyeglass stores available, it's easy to take your prescription somewhere else.

The ability to save over $100 on an exam leaves you with more money to tuck away in savings or use in some other way.

Your Costco eye doctor

Costco does not employ its own ophthalmologists. Instead, eye doctors work as independent contractors. The stores have the latest technology and equipment, and each doctor is held to the standard set by Costco, which helps explain the strong online reviews its optical department receives.

Still, it's possible to go into your appointment with even more confidence in the doctor scheduled to examine your eyes. When you make your appointment, ask which doctor you're scheduled to see. Once you have the doctor's name, check out their credentials by visiting the American Board of Ophthalmology online or call the organization directly at (610) 664-1175. You can also check credentials through the American Board of Medical Specialties' online portal or by calling (866) 275-2267.

Another way to save

Some people have health insurance through their employers, but don't have access to vision coverage. Still, there may still be a way to cover the cost of eyecare. If you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), either will cover eye-related expenses. Be sure to take advantage of that perk.

Financial resources

If your household budget is tight, and you can't cover the cost of eyecare, there are organizations that want to help. Here's a sample of places you can reach out to:

• Community health centers: Some community health centers include an eye clinic. If the community health center near you offers an eye clinic, check its website or give them a call to ask if they offer free or low-cost care.
• Nearby universities: If you live near a college or university, check to see if it has an optometry or ophthalmology program. If so, call to learn if they provide low-cost eyecare (some do).
• Lions Clubs International: For years, Lions Clubs have helped pay for eyecare through local clubs.
• VSP Eyes of Hope: Provides no-cost eyecare and eyeglasses. If you have a limited income and don't have health insurance, you can apply for Eyes of Hope. You can find information regarding the program and how to apply here.
• New Eyes: This organization provides prescription eyeglasses to those who can't afford the out-of-pocket costs. You can find more information on the New Eyes website.
• EyeCare America: Provides free comprehensive eye exams, as well as one year of care, to those aged 65 and older. EyeCare America also provides care to people who are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
• All Children See: If your child has an existing vision problem or a problem caught through a vision screening, this public service organization will connect you with an eye doctor who can provide a comprehensive exam. All Children See is only available in some states.
• InfantSEE: Provides free eye assessments for babies between the ages of 6 and 12 months. InfantSee seeks to catch vision issues that a regular check-up may miss.

Not everyone has funds they can pull from their personal checking account to cover an eye exam, but if you do, Costco provides a great low-cost alternative to typical eye doctor offices.