Key Takeaways
Most Eye Care Services and Products Qualify for FSA Use. Routine eye exams, prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, and dry eye treatments are typically eligible. Many vision-correction procedures—such as LASIK or PRK consultations—also qualify.
FSA Funds Commonly Expire at Year-End. Many plans follow a “use-it-or-lose-it” structure, meaning unused funds reset at the end of the plan year. This makes the end of the year an ideal time to schedule your eye exam or update your prescription.
Quick, Last-Minute Eye Care Purchases Can Use Up Remaining Funds. Even if time is running out, you can still put leftover FSA dollars to good use. Options include purchasing contact lenses, ordering backup glasses, or stocking up on eligible dry eye products.
As the year comes to a close, many people scramble to use the remaining balance in their Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). What most don’t realize is how many eye care services and products qualify for FSA spending. From routine exams and glasses to LASIK consultations, specialty lenses, and dry eye products, understanding your options can help you make the most of your benefits before they reset.
Why the End of the Year Matters for Your FSA
Most FSAs follow a “use it or lose it” structure, meaning unused funds typically expire at the end of the plan year. Some employers offer a grace period or allow a limited carryover, but rules vary—so it’s always best to check your specific plan’s details.
Eye care is one of the most practical and impactful ways to spend leftover FSA dollars. Vision services are widely eligible, often essential, and can be scheduled quickly, making them an ideal option when you’re looking to use remaining funds before they disappear.
FSA-Eligible Eye Care Expenses (What Most People Don’t Know)
Many people are surprised by how many vision-related services and products qualify for FSA spending. Here’s a breakdown of the most common—and often overlooked—eligible expenses.
Eye Exams
Routine and comprehensive eye exams are typically FSA-eligible. These visits help detect vision changes, update prescriptions, and monitor eye health. Because many people try to schedule before the end of the year, appointment times tend to fill quickly.
Prescription Glasses
FSA funds commonly cover a wide range of prescription eyewear, including single-vision, progressive, and computer glasses. Prescription sunglasses are also usually eligible. In addition, upgrades such as anti-glare coatings, blue light protection, and higher-quality lenses can be purchased with FSA dollars—making eyewear one of the most popular end-of-year uses.
Reading Glasses
Reading glasses, whether prescription or over-the-counter, are generally FSA-eligible. Some plans may require an itemized receipt, especially for non-prescription lenses, so it’s a good idea to keep documentation for your records.
Contact Lenses & Supplies
Most types of contact lenses—daily disposables, toric, multifocal, and specialty options—qualify for FSA spending. So do common supplies like cleaning solutions, saline, and lens cases. Stocking up before year-end is a convenient way to use remaining funds.
Specialty Lenses & Eye Care for Medical Conditions
Certain medically necessary contacts (such as for keratoconus or post-surgical use) may be eligible. Products recommended by an eye care provider for dry eye—such as lubricating drops, warm compresses, or moisture goggles—may also qualify depending on your plan.
Is Laser Eye Surgery FSA Eligible?
Many people are surprised to learn that most vision-correction procedures—including LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and EVO ICL—are typically FSA-eligible. In many cases, RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) may also qualify. That makes year-end a great time to explore your refractive surgery options.
Yes—LASIK and PRK Are Usually Eligible
Most FSA plans allow funds to be used toward refractive surgery costs. Because these procedures are often planned in advance, scheduling a consultation before year-end helps determine whether this option fits your goals and timeline.
How FSA Helps Lower the Cost of LASIK
Paying for part of LASIK with pre-tax funds can help reduce overall out-of-pocket cost. Some patients choose to combine FSA dollars, promotional pricing, and an HSA (if they have one) for additional savings.
When to Consider a LASIK Consultation
A consultation may be appropriate for people experiencing frequent prescription changes, irritation with contacts, or those seeking greater convenience for active, athletic, or outdoor lifestyles.
FSA-Eligible Eye Care Products You Can Buy Before Year-End
If you’re looking for quick ways to use remaining FSA funds, many eye-related products qualify, including:
- Prescription eye drops
- Blue light blocking lenses (if prescription-based)
- Prescription safety glasses
- Warm compresses, eye masks, and certain dry eye therapies (when medically recommended)
- Specialty lens cleaners and supplies
These items can be purchased without an appointment, making them ideal for last-minute FSA use.
What’s Not Covered by FSA (Important!)
Understanding what isn’t eligible helps prevent denied claims. Common non-eligible items include:
- Non-prescription sunglasses
- Cosmetic eye procedures
- Colored contacts without a prescription
- Cosmetic accessories or non-medical eye products
Plan rules differ, so reviewing your employer’s documentation is always recommended.
Last-Minute Ways to Use Leftover FSA Dollars on Eye Care
If you only have a short time before your FSA resets, here are useful ways to apply remaining funds:
- Order additional boxes of contact lenses
- Purchase a backup pair of glasses or prescription sunglasses
- Schedule a routine eye exam
- Stock up on eligible dry eye products
- Put funds toward a LASIK or PRK consultation
- Use FSA dollars for a child’s exam or glasses (if dependents are covered)
Because many vision needs are recurring, stocking up can help stretch your benefits into the new year.
How to Schedule Your End-of-Year Eye Care Visit
For patients in Houston, Webster, and Clear Lake, appointments are available for routine exams, prescription updates, contact lens fittings, and LASIK consultations. Because year-end demand is high, scheduling early helps ensure access before FSA deadlines.
Use Your FSA Dollars Before They Expire
If you still have FSA funds available, CLS Health Eye Center can help you make the most of them. FSA balances expire soon—so this is an ideal time to take care of your vision and use the benefits you’ve already earned.
Schedule a routine eye exam, update your glasses or contact lenses, book a LASIK/PRK consultation, or get a dry eye evaluation today.
FAQs About Using FSA for Eye Care
No. Both can be used for qualified medical expenses, but they operate differently. Check your plan’s rules for details.
Most FSAs cover reading glasses. Some plans may need an itemized receipt.
Yes—if the eyewear is prescription-based and you use an FSA-eligible retailer.
FSAs often cover qualified expenses such as co-pays or deductibles related to cataract surgery, but coverage varies by plan.
