It is always important for people of all ages to get their vision checked on a regular basis. Getting regular eye exams and updating any necessary prescriptions is vital as people go through their daily lives. Because many individuals rely so heavily on their vision for driving, reading, and even binge-watching Netflix shows - among other things - having 20/20 vision makes a huge difference. Those who are low-income and think they cannot afford glasses can still get their vision corrected when needed. National health care programs and even non-profit organizations can help individuals and their families get eyeglasses. With the help of these programs, nobody has to live with anything less than 20/20 vision. Three of the best places to find assistance for vision services include CHIP, Medicaid, and non-profit organizations. Read on to learn more about getting help for eyeglasses.

CHIP is a program that offers vision coverage for children. CHIP coverage is intended for children with parents who do not qualify for Medicaid, but otherwise have a relatively low income. Under CHIP coverage, children will have coverage for a pair of eyeglasses or two pairs of eyeglasses as needed. CHIP will cover frames, lenses, fittings, and repairs. Children under the age of 19 will qualify for CHIP if they do not have insurance. While most families will have few to no out of pocket costs, higher income families may be faced with low-premiums and copays.

Functioning as a social health program, Medicaid offers medical insurance coverage for families with low-incomes. The great part about this is that Medicaid even includes vision coverage. Medicaid will cover individuals 21 and older for one pair of glasses per year. Vision coverage for eyeglasses includes the frames, lenses, fittings, and even repairs. Individuals under the age of 21 may have their eyeglasses replaced twice if stolen, lost or broken, but individuals over 21 may only get eyeglasses replaced once. Bifocals and trifocals may also be covered if needed; otherwise individuals may elect to get separate pairs of eyeglasses for near-sighted and far-sighted vision. However, transition lenses and progressive multifocal lenses are not covered by Medicaid.

Non-profit organizations are another great way for individuals to get help getting eyeglasses for themselves and their families. New Eyes is one excellent source for getting eyeglasses. New Eyes for the Needy will purchase prescription glasses for low-income families via a voucher program. Individuals in need of eyeglasses can contact a social worker or other social service agent, who will then go onto the program website and fill out an online application. It should be noted that the voucher is good only for basic prescription eyeglasses which cannot be upgraded nor charged additional payments. With so many ways to get free or affordable eyeglasses, there’s little reason for individuals and their families to go without. Social programs and non-profit organizations make it easier than ever for low-income families to get the eyeglasses they need.