5 Memberships That Get You Discounts on Vision Care

Savvy shoppers tend to know that membership in an organization like AAA or AARP comes with a wider variety of benefits than most folks realize. But even the savviest among us may not know that some seemingly unusual benefits are commonplace.

Take discounts on optical services and products for example.

Members of the following nationwide nonprofits and clubs are eligible for price breaks on everything from eyeglasses to vision insurance.

Of course, you don’t need a membership to save money on eyeglasses or eye care. Just check out “Lookin’ Good! How to Get a Killer Deal on Eyeglasses.”

1. AAA

This federation of automotive clubs helps its members keep a sharp eye on the road by offering them vision-related discounts.

These benefits may vary from one regional AAA club to another. But AAA members in my area, for example, can save as much as 50% at optical retailers like LensCrafters.

2. AARP

Perhaps you already know that the benefits of an AARP membership include discounts on everything from dining to auto insurance. But what about vision-related savings?

The benefits of membership include discounts on optical products and services from:

• Glasses.com: Exclusive savings include 30% off on complete pairs of glasses, free expedited shipping and free frame adjustments at LensCrafters.
• LensCrafters: Exclusive savings include 50% off prescription lenses with the purchase of frames, 30% off non-prescription sunglasses and 10% off disposable contact lenses.
• Target Optical: Exclusive savings include $10 off the purchase of a glasses frame, or complete pair of eyeglasses or non-prescription sunglasses. You also get 10% off contact lenses, $5 off lenses or $20 off a complete pair that has Transitions lenses.

AARP members even get access to exclusive vision insurance plans through EyeMed. The benefits of these plans include diabetic vision exams and loss-of-sight benefits.

3. AMAC

The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) — another organization dedicated to folks age 50 and older — also offers its members discounts on vision products and services.

They are available from:

• Readers.com: AMAC members can get three pairs of reading glasses for $30 plus free shipping.
• VSP: AMAC members can get VSP Individual Vision Plans, which offer typical savings of more than $300 including on glasses, lens enhancements, contact lenses and LASIK procedures.
• Key Vision Plan: AMAC members can purchase a discount vision to save 15% on contact lens exams, and get a flat $50 rate for eye exams and special pricing on glasses.

4. Costco

You generally don’t have to be a member of Costco to see an optometrist at a Costco optical department. But the ability to buy optical items, such as glasses and contacts, is reserved for members.

Members also get access to discounts on top of the warehouse club’s already low prices.

5. Sam’s Club

You don’t have to be a member of Sam’s Club to see an optometrist at this warehouse club chain, either. Only members can buy optical items there, though.

Members also get access to discounts. Folks with the more expensive Sam’s Plus membership, for example, get 20% off a complete pair of eyeglasses.