Vision Benefits of America (VBA): What You Should Know Before Your Eye Exam

Are you interested in learning more about Vision Benefits of America (VBA) insurance? Maybe you already have VBA and are looking for an eye doctor in Charlotte or Asheville, NC.

If so, look no further, Reflect Vision Care proudly accepts Vision Benefits of America insurance! We also accept a variety of vision and medical insurance plans to make it easier for you to get the care you deserve.

Below, we’ve answered the most common questions our patients ask about VBA and how to make the most of your vision benefits at Reflect Vision Care.

What Is Vision Benefits of America (VBA)?

Founded in 1965, Vision Benefits of America (VBA) is one of the longest-standing vision insurance providers in the country. Their mission is to improve the human experience by reducing barriers to high-quality eye care through innovative service and coverage options.

VBA partners with thousands of eye care providers nationwide and offers comprehensive benefits that include eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses, as well as discounts on LASIK and PRK through the QualSight LASIK network.

With over 22,000 points of access, VBA members have flexibility and choice, whether visiting a local independent optometrist or a retail optical chain.

How to Find a VBA Provider

Finding a VBA provider is simple! You can use the VBA Provider Locator to search by:

• ZIP code or city

• Provider or office name

• Practice type (independent or retail)

💡 Tip: Always confirm your provider’s participation before your visit, as network details can vary by plan or employer group.

And yes, Reflect Vision Care proudly accepts VBA patients!

What If My Provider Isn’t In-Network?

You can still see any eye doctor you choose. However, if your provider is out-of-network, you’ll typically need to pay in full at the time of service and then submit a claim to VBA for reimbursement.

VBA reimburses out-of-network claims based on their allowable rates, which means you may not receive the full amount you paid.

Our team at Reflect Vision Care is happy to help verify your benefits and file your claim for you, making the process as simple as possible.

How Much Does Vision Benefits of America Cost?

VBA offers both individual and group plans, making it a great choice for self-employed individuals, families, and businesses.

Typical costs include:

• Individual coverage: starting at around $11.67 per month

• Family coverage: available at higher tiers, depending on plan level

• No enrollment fees and coverage typically begins on your selected start date

You can sign up directly through the VBA website and start using your benefits within days.

What Does Vision Benefits of America Cover?

VBA provides coverage for routine eye care services and eyewear products to help you maintain healthy vision affordably.

Eye Exams

• Comprehensive eye exams are covered with copays ranging from $0–$25, depending on your plan.

• Exams include prescription updates, vision testing, and screenings for common eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts.

Frames and Lenses

• Frame allowance: typically $50, though some plans may offer higher allowances.

• Lenses: coverage for single vision, bifocal, or trifocal lenses, with varying copays.

• Enhancements: additional discounts or coverage for popular lens options such as:

  • Anti-glare coatings

  • UV protection

  • Transitions (light-adaptive) lenses

  • Premium progressive lenses

💡 Pro Tip: VBA members can also receive special discounts on a second pair of glasses or prescription sunglasses at many participating providers.

Contact Lenses

• VBA provides a 15% discount on contact lens evaluations and materials for most plans.

• This discount applies whether you wear daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses.

Note: As with most vision insurance plans, you must choose to use your benefits toward glasses or contact lenses during each benefit cycle, not both.

Are Medically Necessary Contact Lenses Covered by VBA?

Yes! VBA provides coverage of up to $400 for medically necessary contact lenses, such as scleral, hybrid, or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.

However, prior authorization is required from your doctor to confirm medical necessity for conditions such as:

• Keratoconus

• Severe dry eye disease

• Corneal irregularities or post-surgical changes

Our doctors at Reflect Vision Care will handle the authorization process and ensure all documentation is submitted for approval.

Does Vision Benefits of America Cover Diabetic Eye Exams?

No. VBA covers routine eye exams only. However, patients with diabetes can use their medical insurance (such as Medicare, BCBS, or Aetna) for a diabetic eye exam, which includes retinal imaging and dilation when needed.

At Reflect Vision Care, we perform thorough diabetic eye exams and communicate the results directly to your primary care provider.

Does Vision Benefits of America Cover LASIK or PRK?

VBA does not directly cover LASIK or PRK surgery, but members can save up to 35% on these procedures through the QualSight LASIK network.

These discounts apply to both traditional LASIK and custom all-laser procedures at participating locations nationwide.

If you’re considering refractive surgery, our doctors can help determine your candidacy and connect you with trusted surgeons offering discounted pricing.

Additional VBA Member Benefits

• Wide network: Over 22,000 participating vision care locations nationwide

• Affordable premiums: Individual plans starting under $12 per month

• Flexible enrollment: Join as an individual, family, or employee group

• LASIK savings: Up to 35% off with QualSight partners

• Preventive focus: Annual eye exams help detect early changes in vision and eye health

Why Choose Reflect Vision Care for Your VBA Eye Care

At Reflect Vision Care, we’re proud to partner with Vision Benefits of America to make quality eye care accessible and affordable for our patients in Charlotte and Asheville.

Our team provides comprehensive eye exams, contact lens fittings, and medical eye care, while helping you maximize your insurance benefits every step of the way.

Whether you’re due for your annual checkup or looking to upgrade your glasses, we’ll help you get the most out of your VBA coverage.

Schedule Your VBA Eye Exam Today

Ready to use your VBA benefits? Our team at Reflect Vision Care is here to make it easy.

Schedule your eye exam at one of our convenient Reflect Vision Care locations:

• Northlake Mall

• Concord Mills

• Biltmore Park

• Asheville Mall

📞 Call us or schedule online to book your appointment today!