Eye care can be expensive. The good news is that there are programs that offer free or low-cost eye exams and eyeglasses. Some health insurance plans also provide free vision screenings and help to cover the cost of other eye care services, too. These programs offer free or low-cost eye care. Most of these programs provide services across the United States, but your area may have local organizations and services that can help, too.
VSP Eyes of Hope provides children and adults with no-cost eye care and eyeglasses. Lions Clubs International offers help paying for eye care through its local clubs. Some clubs may also provide eyeglasses. A social worker or someone at a community health center may be able help you apply.
The National Federation of the Blind provides free white canes for personal use. Prevent Blindness has a full list of organizations and services that provide financial help for vision care. EyeCare America offers free comprehensive eye exams β and up to 1 year of care β to people age 65 and older and to people at higher risk of glaucoma. All Children See connects you with eye doctors that can provide a comprehensive eye exam. Children qualify for the program if they had a vision screening that caught an eye problem β or if they show vision problems.
Note this program is only available in some states. InfantSEE offers free eye assessments for babies ages 6 to 12 months. Under a law called the Affordable Care Act, many health insurance plans are required to cover the full cost of vision screenings for children and teens up to age Health insurance plans may also help cover the cost of eye care for eye diseases like cataracts, diabetic eye disease, and glaucoma.
Medicaid and CHIP Children's Health Insurance Program are government programs that offer free or low-cost health insurance for children in families with low incomes. Medicaid and CHIP cover the cost of vision care for children. Keep in mind that each state has different rules to qualify for these programs. Medicare is a government health insurance program for people age 65 and older and some people younger than age 65 with disabilities.
