As the end of the year approaches, now is the time to plan for how you’ll use your pre-tax health care dollars. If you participate in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you have a powerful (and sometimes under-utilized) tool to reduce your taxable income and take care of your vision at the same time.
Here’s what you need to know in 2025 so you don’t leave money on the table.
What’s New in 2025 for FSAs?
- New limits. The IRS has set the 2025 health-care FSA contribution limit at $3,300 (up from $3,200 in 2024).
- Better carry-over potential. For plans that allow a carry-over, up to $660 may be carried into the next year.
- “Use it or lose it” still applies. Even with carry-over options, many plans require you to spend or claim your FSA-eligible expenses before year-end (or within a brief grace period) or they’re forfeited.
Taken together, this means there’s more opportunity than ever to allocate pre-tax dollars toward your health—and your eyes.
Why Eye Care Is an Ideal Use of FSA Funds
Your eyes aren’t just about vision—proper eye care is part of your overall health, and many eye-related services and products are eligible FSA expenses. According to official guidance, FSAs cover a broad array of vision-care services for you, your spouse, and dependents.
Here are strong reasons to prioritize eye-care spending with your FSA:
- Comprehensive eye exams are FSA-eligible and provide more than just the prescription check—they screen for early signs of eye disease, systemic issues (like hypertension or diabetes), and changes that may affect your long-term vision.
- Procedures and treatments: Many vision correction surgeries (LASIK, PRK, ICLs) and advanced cataract lens upgrades may qualify (depending on plan rules and medical necessity) and can be especially impactful if your FSA funds are ready to be used.
- Vision products: Prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, contact solution, and even prescription sunglasses may be eligible. Using FSA funds for these can reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
- Year-end timing advantage: If you still have FSA funds remaining, scheduling an eye exam or investing in vision care now helps you use the funds before the plan year ends and benefit from the tax savings.
5 Smart Ways to Maximize Your FSA for Eye Care in 2025
- Start with a comprehensive eye exam. This is often the first eligible expense you can schedule. Use it to evaluate your vision, eye health, and plan future needs.
- Plan ahead for elective vision procedures. If you’ve been considering a vision correction surgery or premium intraocular lens upgrade, now is a good time to explore whether those costs could fit your FSA.
- Stock up on eligible supplies. If you wear contact lenses, need contact lens solution, or prescription sunglasses for outdoor or driving use, consider purchasing them before the plan year ends.
- Check your plan’s rollover or grace-period rules. Even though the IRS allows carry-over up to $660 for 2025, your employer’s plan may differ. Knowing your plan’s exact rules helps you make decisions.
- Estimate carefully for the coming year. Since contributions are pre-tax, accurate estimation of your eligible expenses helps you avoid forfeiting unused funds (or under-funding and missing out on savings).
Why Paragon Eye Associates Should Be Your Vision-Care Partner
At Paragon Eye Associates in Arlington and Mansfield, TX, our team offers full-service vision care—from comprehensive eye exams and contact lens fittings to advanced surgical options.
Whether you’re using your FSA to cover a routine exam, upgrade your glasses, or consider vision-correction surgery, our experienced team is here to guide you. With eye-care services that align well with FSA eligibility, you can make every dollar count.
Ready to Use Your FSA for Eye Care?
Don’t let your hard-earned FSA dollars expire unused. Schedule your vision-care visit today: fill out the form below or call us at (817) 277-6433 for our Arlington location or (817) 477-0223 for Mansfield.
Let’s help you maximize your benefits and protect your vision before the year ends!