How to Use Your Vision Insurance Benefits in Bakersfield: What Local Clinics Don’t Always Tell You

Nov 3, 2025

For many Bakersfield families, vision insurance is an important way to keep eye care affordable. But here’s something many patients don’t realize: if you don’t use your benefits before the year ends, you could lose them. At Li & Liao Optometry, we want to make sure our patients understand how their coverage works and how to get the most out of it before December 31.

Why Year-End Matters for Vision Insurance

Most vision insurance plans work on an annual cycle. That means benefits like eye exams, glasses, or contact lens allowances reset every December 31. Any unused benefits usually do not roll over, which means patients are leaving money on the table if they don’t schedule before year-end.
For Bakersfield residents, December is often one of the busiest times to schedule appointments. Many patients wait until the last minute, only to find that clinics are fully booked. Scheduling early can help secure your preferred time and ensure you don’t miss out on benefits you’ve already paid for.

Understanding Claim Deadlines

End-of-Year Cutoff: Most plans require claims to be submitted by December 31 for services completed during the plan year.
Grace Periods: Some insurers allow 30–60 days into the new year to file claims, but coverage must still apply to services done before December 31.

Patient Tip: Book your appointment before the December rush. This ensures your exam and eyewear purchases are completed in time to be covered.

What’s Covered vs. Not Covered

Most vision insurance plans cover essentials like:

Annual comprehensive eye exams
Eyeglass frames (often with a set allowance)
Prescription lenses and enhancements (such as anti-glare, progressives, or blue-light protection)
Contact lenses (usually in place of glasses, depending on the plan)

However, patients are often surprised to learn that some items are not typically included:

LASIK or refractive surgery (though discounts may be available)
Non-prescription sunglasses
Some premium lens options not fully covered
Medical eye care, which may be billed under medical insurance instead

Knowing the difference helps patients plan their purchases and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Providers

Choosing the right provider makes a big difference in how far benefits go.

In-Network Providers: Lower out-of-pocket costs, simplified billing, and better use of allowances. Patients usually get more value for exams, glasses, and contacts.
Out-of-Network Providers: Patients may pay upfront, submit for reimbursement, and receive lower payouts—meaning higher personal costs.

Li & Liao Optometry is an in-network provider for many major vision insurance plans, helping Bakersfield patients maximize savings while getting personalized, local care.

How to Maximize Your Benefits Before Year-End

Here are smart strategies Bakersfield patients can use:

Use your annual exam benefit: Even if your vision feels fine, yearly exams can detect early signs of eye disease.
Update your eyewear: If your plan includes a frame or lens allowance, now is the time to refresh your look or upgrade lenses.
Consider a second pair: Many patients don’t realize benefits can apply to prescription sunglasses, blue-light glasses, or a spare pair.
Stock up on contacts: Order your supply before year-end so it’s covered under this year’s benefits.
Combine with FSA or HSA funds: Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts can often be applied alongside vision insurance for eyewear purchases.

Schedule Your Year-End Visit with Li & Liao Optometry

Don’t let your vision benefits go unused. At Li & Liao Optometry, we help Bakersfield patients understand their coverage and make the most of their insurance before the year resets. Whether you need an eye exam, new glasses, or contact lenses, our team is here to make the process simple and stress-free.

Appointments fill quickly in December, so don’t wait—schedule your visit today and get the most value from your vision insurance benefits.