Free eye tests: how to cut the cost of eyecare

Ruth Jackson explains how to cut the cost of new glasses, contact lenses or laser eye surgery; plus three more money-saving tips.

But even if you have to pay for eyecare there are still ways to cut the cost. If you are unlucky enough to need glasses or contact lens, shop around before you buy. You don't have to get them from your optician. Once you have had an eye test, ask the optician for a copy of your lens prescription, then either check other high-street opticians for the best deal or go online, where there are big savings to be had. Getlenses.com, Contactlenses.co.uk, Thespecsplace.com and Visiondirect.co.uk all sell discounted branded contact lenses and glasses, as they don't have to cover the costs of running a shop.

If you opt for the permanent solution of laser surgery, then you can "cut your bill without compromising on the quality of the procedure", says Hughes, by checking with surgeries to see whether they offer discounts on any free treatment slots they have at the end of the month or quarter.

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Ruth Jackson-Kirby

Ruth Jackson-Kirby is a freelance personal finance journalist with 17 years’ experience, writing about everything from savings accounts and credit cards to pensions, property and pet insurance.

Ruth started her career at MoneyWeek after graduating with an MA from the University of St Andrews, and she continues to contribute regular articles to our personal finance section. After leaving MoneyWeek she went on to become deputy editor of Moneywise before becoming a freelance journalist.

Ruth writes regularly for national publications including The Sunday Times, The Times, The Mail on Sunday and Good Housekeeping, among many other titles both online and offline.