contacts

14 Secrets to Saving on Eyewear

Andrea Cannon — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 09:30:29 +0000

Eyeglasses and contact lenses are a necessity for more than 150 million Americans. Unfortunately, eyewear is not a cheap purchase — so we've compiled some tips to help save you money on the cost of glasses and contacts.

1. Purchase Your Glasses Online

Along with enjoying huge savings on your new set of glasses, you can also take advantage of online services to ensure that the glasses look right with your style. This will allow you to casually try the glasses on at home so you can take your time choosing the right ones. Once you find the right pair, they will likely be shipped in no time (even faster than you would get them at the optician's office.)

If you have issues like astigmatism, you may not be able to shop online and it might more prudent to have your doctor custom fit you for the right pair of glasses. You may also want to have a professional help you at an optical store and once you find the glasses you like, you can search for the frames online for the best deal. (See also: Should You Ever Buy Eyeglasses Online?)

2. Purchase Your Contact Lenses Online

Websites like 1-800 Contacts can save you money on your contacts, compared to what you would pay at your optician's office. You can also often get discounts if you purchase more than one box of contacts at a time. Buying in bulk will also save you money on shipping and allow you to lock in today's rate.

3. Find Trial Offers

Certain contact lens providers, like Acuvue and Dailies, will offer free trial lenses, so you can try them before you buy them. This will help ensure that the contacts fit comfortably, so you know you'll get your money's worth.

4. Look for Online Deals

Take advantage of online coupons and deals from services like Groupon. This can save you quite a bit of money on glasses, contacts, and even your eye exam. Just make sure to read the details thoroughly as some coupons only cover the cost of the frames, and you will have to pay for the lenses out-of-pocket.

5. Ask for a Price Match

Many optical shops will offer a price match, if you ask. Some shops will even offer a price match and a rebate, so you'll actually spend less than you would online.

6. Keep the Same Lenses or Frames

If your lenses are still in good shape and you still have the same prescription, consider reusing them in a new frame. Many optical shops will help you find a similar style frame and can apply your old lenses so it looks like a new pair of glasses.

The same rule holds for your frames. If you like your frames, but your prescription has changed, take advantage of a prescription eyeglass lens replacement service that will replace the lenses in your existing frames.

7. Opt for Cheaper Glasses

If you tend to wear contacts and only reach for your glasses when you're home, then you don't need to spend a lot on designer glasses. Instead, opt for the cheaper glasses since no one will see them anyway.

8. Don't Replace Your Glasses Every Year

If you don't need to replace your glasses, then it's best to just keep the same pair for as long as you can. After all, it can take a lot of time and energy to find the perfect glasses, so why replace them after only a year?

9. Skip the Add-Ons

Unless your prescription is above +/- 3.00, professionals recommend skipping the add-ons like antireflective coating, light adjusting lenses, or high index or ultrahigh index lenses. Skipping these add-ons can save you quite a bit of money and won't really make a difference in the long run.

10. Shop at Costco

According to Consumer Reports, Costco received the highest overall satisfaction rating of any eyeglass retailer. Not only do they offer better service, but you can also save money on your favorite pair of glasses.

11. Take Advantage of Free Repairs and Adjustments

If you choose to purchase your glasses in-office, then take advantage of free adjustments to ensure your glasses fit perfectly. Inquire with your optician's office about whether they offer any free replacements or repairs.

12. Take Advantage of Insurance

Before you get started, it's important to find out if you're covered by insurance. Even if you don't have a separate vision insurance plan, you may be covered under your regular medical insurance plan. Many insurance plans include a basic eye or dental care plan, so you may be covered without even realizing it.

Before visiting your eyeglass store, first find out if they accept your vision insurance. If they accept it, find out what your insurance covers. Take advantage of whatever you can so that you get your money's worth every year. If they do not accept your insurance plan, inquire from your plan's administrator about whether they will offer reimbursement if you decide to pay out-of-pocket.

13. Use FSA Funds

If you have an FSA (or flexible spending account), take advantage of this pretax money to pay for eligible medical expenses such as prescription glasses and contact lenses. Keep in mind that FSA funds might not pay for extras like extended warranties. The goal is to use up all of your FSA funds before the end of the year, but it's important that you don't wait until the last minute to use it or you may rush to pick your new glasses, even if they aren't the most flattering option or don't offer the best deal.

14. Do Your Research

Before scheduling your eye test, research the options available to you so you can determine where you'll get the best deal for your money. Call your eyeglass store of choice to inquire about whether they currently have any coupons or deals to cut the cost of your new glasses. If you know the glasses that you want, you can search online for the brand and model number to compare prices.

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 10 Best Networking Tips for People Under 40

Mikey Rox — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 11:00:11 +0000

If you want to get ahead in this world, you have to network. Networking helps build confidence, connects you with like-minded professionals, and, if all goes well, networking can help improve your business's bottom line. But are you doing the best you can do as a mover and shaker? Take a look at these networking tips for pros under age 40 and then add some of your own in the comments below.

1. Muster up the Confidence to Go it Alone

There's always safety in numbers of course, but one of the big problems with going to a networking event with a friend or coworker is that you'll tend to stick together instead of branching off on your own, thereby limiting your exposure to other networkers. Instead, think of networking like those times when your teacher told you to partner up with someone you didn't know so well. There was a reason behind that — so you wouldn't dilly-dally with your BFF, and instead give you a chance to make a new friend. Networking is just like that, but all grown-up. And since you're an adult, be an adult about it — try going to the networking event alone and see what happens.

"Some of the most beneficial and lasting networking I've done has tended to share one common theme: I've been on my own at the conference or event," says Jaime Netzer, content editor of The Zebra. "So often, I'll get introductions via coworkers, or head to industry-type events with friends. But if you can push yourself to go alone — and can handle those first few moments of feeling awkward and trying to figure out what to do with your hands — you'll find that they're totally worth it."

2. Pay Attention to the Younger Generation

I daresay that early on I was a victim to thinking very narrowly and only wanting to make contacts with people who were already in high places — while completely disregarding those who were on their way but not quite there yet. It's a common networking faux pas that will not only limit your professional potential, but could also make you come off like a jerk.

Dani Pascarella, 27-year-old founder and CEO of millennial personal finance and career site Invibed, reminds us to show some love to the little people.

"Invite new analysts to coffee and give them advice. Help college students get their foot in the door at your company. Be a mentor. Do whatever you can to help others," she says. "Most people ignore younger talent and focus on networking with really senior people. But I can't tell you how many of the people I helped early in their careers that went on to be wildly successful. And those people were always willing to help me any way they could because I helped them early on, when most others were ignoring them."

3. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for a Meeting

Do you want a meeting with an influencer, someone with whom you think it would be beneficial (hopefully mutually) to be connected? Make the first move. As my mother always told me, the worst thing they can say is "no," but you won't know until you ask.

"Don't ever be afraid to ask someone to meet you for a coffee — I don't care how important you think they are," Pascarella says. "If you don't ask, you'll never get the opportunity. If you ask, at least you have a shot. And don't take things personally if they say 'no.' There are three types of people in the world of networking: people who love it, people who don't, and people who only participate if there's something in it for them. Each person's attitude towards networking plays a much larger role in whether they agree to meet with you than anything you could have said or done."

On the flip side, Ryan Modesto, managing partner at investment research firm 5i Research, suggests accepting any and all invitations from other professionals to meet. Because, well, you don't like to be told "no," do you? Neither do they.

"You never know where a contact/connection may lead, so if you have a chance to do a coffee with someone more established, take it," he says. "Even if they can't help you directly, they may be able to pass you on to someone else who can help. This includes family, friends, friends of friends, etc."

4. Just Don't Ask for the Other Person's Help Too Soon

At this point you've got several meetings set up and you're excited. SO many opportunities on the horizon. While you might be chomping at the bit to turn these connections into something more substantial — like a profit — don't jump the gun. Nobody, in business or otherwise, likes to feel used. Let the relationship develop deeper and organically take its course. Push too soon and you could start to earn a reputation that will only work against you.

"Networking is not about you; it's about finding out about the other person, perhaps even uncovering what you can do for them," motivational speaker Barry Maher says. "It's about building some sort of relationship — even if it's a quick and very short-term relationship — before trying to find out what they might be able to do for you. Without that relationship, you're not networking; you're cold calling, and there's no more reason for that person to help you than any other stranger they might come across on the street."

5. Remember to Share, Not Sell

This sort of goes hand-in-hand with not asking for your new contact's help too soon, so remember that this relationship you're building is supposed to be one of mutual benefit. Avoid allowing it to teeter too far to your side by keeping a focus on sharing aspects of your career opposed to selling them. There's a difference — one of them is genuine; the other isn't.

"For anyone networking, I suggest not being too pushy. Share; don't sell," says media relations and social media specialist Christina Nicholson. We all have our personal reasons for networking, but we cannot focus on those reasons entirely. Don't act like a stereotypical used car salesman. Instead, be professional, but personal too."

6. Try Your Hand at "Sweatworking"

Personally, I've been on social sports teams for nearly a decade — kickball, dodgeball, bowling, trivia, and more — and I highly recommend these activities to help build your contact base. But keep in mind that the main focus is not professional networking — unless it's a business team, of course — so don't make it such. Rest assured, however, that over the weeks of play you'll inevitably talk about what you do as a career and sometimes there's a synergy that comes out of it.

Career and life coach Jenn DeWall agrees.

"Take networking from the bar to the outdoors or a gym," she says. "By doing a physical activity or shared experience you can help create more meaningful relationships. The shared experience can also break the ice helping conversations smooth more easily, which can build confidence for both extroverts and introverts. For Millennials, this is especially effective as it reduces perceived too pushy or formal networking atmospheres that they feel they are not able to truly be themselves or authentic.."

7. Wear an Article of Clothing That's Memorable

Another one of my favorite — and very easy — networking tactics is to wear clothing that makes an impression. (A good impression, of course. Don't show up looking like a clown, please.) When done well, your standout article of clothing is an icebreaker and a confidence booster simultaneously.

Jenna Elkins is a media relations coordinator for TechnologyAdvice, and she's familiar with this strategy.

"Don't over do it by wearing something bright head-to-toe," she says, "but instead wear something small like bright shoes or a unique scarf. This is a great way for people to notice you and start small talk by mentioning your article of clothing."

While Jenna's advice applies to women, career expert Allan Ageman didn't forget about all you dapper gents out there.

"It can be difficult to keep track of all the people you meet at a networking event, and as important as it is for you to remember you new acquaintances, it's equally important that they remember you," he says. "Wear something identifiable but still professional, such as a brightly colored blouse or polka dot bow tie."

8. Sit Near the Bar if You Lack the Confidence to Approach Others

This advice to stake a claim near the bar doesn't mean that you should start throwing back cold ones like it's Super Bowl Sunday. Order one drink, stand there, and sip on it. This tactic is to help those of you who aren't outwardly confident enough to approach strangers by taking a passive approach to networking and letting the conversation come to you.

Elkins explains how this works more in depth.

"Generally, if someone wants to be excused from the person they are networking with, many times the bar is a place many people head to when wanting to switch it up a bit," she says. "One way to strike up a conversation with the networkers who visit the bar is by simply introducing yourself. Most of the time people spend a few minutes waiting for their drink, so this is a great time to make small talk that could turn into a longer conversation. Just don't stay at the bar for too long — you don't want to give people the wrong impression."

9. Try Pre-Networking to Break Down a Few Barriers

Another tactic that can help ease the awkwardness of approaching and meeting strangers at an event is to establish contact beforehand. Social media gives you all the tools to do this in order to make the actual event more comfortable — and give you an edge up on other networkers.

"Still not feeling confident?" Ageman asks. "Check out the Facebook group or online event page to see who else will be attending. Try looking them up on LinkedIn and connecting with them prior to the event. Having a short conversation with people beforehand can make you feel more confident at the event."

10. Always, Always, Always Follow Up

And finally, let's not forget our post-networking manners. If you've met someone — doesn't matter who they are or what they do — it's wise to follow up afterward with a quick "Nice to meet you!"' memo via email. You'll solidify your status as a consummate professional via this practice, and the recipients will remember you more than most of the other dozen or so people with whom they may have chatted the day before. One chat near the bar does not a business relationship make. You have to cultivate the relationship, and a message about what a pleasure it was to meet a person is the perfect way to continue.

Do you have other networking tactics for pros under age 40 that you'd like to recommend? Let us know in the comments below.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Ways to Save Money on Eyeglasses

Linsey Knerl — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 17:00:10 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #33: How to Save Money on Eyeglasses

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

It’s National Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, and that means time for everyone (even the guys) to replace their worn out glasses for some new ones! But before you fork out big dollars, read our tips for saving big on your eye care expenses!

Check Your Insurance

Many people are unaware if their regular medical insurance plan covers eye care. If you’re one of them, get informed! While it may not cover actual glasses or contacts, some plans do cover exams and will offer discounts to additional services (like laser surgery). Check the plan’s fine print or contact your HR rep through your workplace to find out what’s available to you.

Use That HSA or FSA

In addition to the awesome tax perks that you can get from taking advantage of these savings plans, they can be a useful way to sock away money for a much-needed replacement pair of lenses. If you’re finding yourself with extra FSA funds at the end of a tax year, this is a great way to use it up. HSA’s will also cover some additional eye care expenses (like contact lens solution). Again, it’s best to check your plan carefully to see what qualifies.

Order Online

If this is going to be your first pair of eyeglasses or contacts, you may want to stick to ordering in-clinic. For the rest of us, you may be comfortable ordering from an online discount chain like 39Dollar Glasses. I’ve used the service myself, and while the quality is nothing compared to my favorite $300 Kate Spade frames that I wear most often, it’s a great way to snag a cheap pair of “backup” frames or for getting fast replacement when the budget is extremely tight. You’ll want to have a current prescription from your eye doctor, as well as measurements for making sure you get a good fit before you order.

Take Advantage of Repair and Replacement Plans

Some clinics will offer one free replacement or repair on certain kinds of lenses, and most reputable eye doctors that I know will switch your contact lens brand for free if you have trouble wearing them. In addition, retailers like Walmart will replace kids’ lenses for up to a year from the date of purchase for free, and many big chains like Lens Crafters may adjust or repair your frames from another store — no questions asked. To get an idea of what’s available to you, just call your closest eye clinic and ask!

Read Up

There’s no better way to save money than by being an informed consumer. That’s why I like the Glassy Eyes blog, a journal about saving money on eyeglasses that includes reviews for retailers, discount codes, and clever hacks to help you from overpaying on your eye care.

Hack It

I wouldn’t recommend this for your best pair of designer frames and lenses, but as a last resort alternative to tossing your beat up frames, you might want to try Armour Etch.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: