Vision Insurance Basics

Learn about vision insurance basics when shopping for company vision insurance

Employee health insurance covers matters of health, including eye trauma, but it doesn't include basic eye care coverage. Regular eye care coverage includes glasses, contact lenses, eye exams and optional LASIK surgery. If you want employees to have full health coverage, including vision, you'll need a separate vision care policy for employees.

Vision insurance plans are cheaper than health insurance plans, so employees don't usually mind paying a few dollars extra for individual eye insurance. There are two types of vision insurance plans, those that are full coverage insurance and those that provide a discount of services. Before purchasing a vision care policy for your company, ask the provider these questions:

1. Does the provider have a dental and vision insurance combination that is affordable? This is a great way to help employees out and keep them working for your company.

2. How many employees must your company have in order to qualify for group vision care coverage?

3. Is the plan actual insurance or a discount policy, and are network providers available in your area?

Find companies that offer affordable vision insurance for small businesses

A small business that offers comprehensive health coverage along with individual vision insurance is a huge draw to prospective employees. A good benefits package can outweigh a less than expected salary for many employees, and help keep valuable employees with your company.

Look for providers that offer dental and vision insurance

Offering both dental and vision insurance in one package is a great draw for a company. Many insurance providers can give you dental and vision insurance quotes and compare that quote with the cost for only vision insurance. If the cost for individual vision insurance isn't much less than a combination package, offer employees both benefits.

Check out individual vision plans if you're self-employed

Vision insurance for individuals who are self-employed is readily available at affordable prices. If your work requires long hours at a computer or gives your eyes any sort of optical strain, buying individual vision insurance is a good idea.

• Vision care coverage can always be an option for your employees rather than mandatory coverage. This benefits both employees who need coverage, and those who don't wear corrective lenses who might not need coverage.

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