🏢 Overview of Each Provider

AAA Vision Discount:
Offered through AAA (American Automobile Association), this vision discount program is typically included as a member perk. AAA partners with LensCrafters, Target Optical, Sears Optical, and others to provide discounts on exams, eyewear, and contacts. It’s not insurance—just access to negotiated pricing.

EyeMed Access Plan:
A vision discount program offered by EyeMed, a major player in the vision benefits industry. The Access Plan provides savings on exams, frames, lenses, and contact lenses at in-network providers. It’s available to individuals and families who want vision discounts without traditional insurance.

📋 Plan Types & Coverage

AAA Vision Discount:

• No enrollment needed beyond an active AAA membership.

• Savings apply to eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and lens enhancements.

• Discounts range from 20% to 30% off standard pricing at partner locations.

• Does not include coverage for medical eye care or prescriptions.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Available as an individual or family membership.

• Members receive set discounts on comprehensive eye exams, frames, lenses, contacts, and upgrades.

• Includes special pricing at over 100,000 locations.

• Some locations offer additional perks like free lens cleanings or adjustments.

🏥 Provider Network & Retail Partners

AAA Vision Discount:

• Partnered with LensCrafters, Target Optical, Sears Optical, Pearle Vision, and select independent providers.

• All access is through AAA’s optometry discount partners, not a broad insurance-style network.

• You must show your AAA membership card at checkout.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• One of the largest networks in the U.S. with 44,000+ participating providers.

• Accepted at national retailers like LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, Target Optical, and ContactsDirect.

• Offers access to both retail and independent optometrists.

💵 Pricing & Premiums

AAA Vision Discount:

• Free with AAA membership (no additional cost).

• Savings vary by provider and product but typically offer 20%+ off retail prices.

• You pay for services out-of-pocket at the time of care, but at a reduced rate.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Costs around $5–$10/month for individuals or families.

• No deductibles or copays—just discounted services.

• Members save on everything from basic eye exams to premium frames and lenses.

📲 Ease of Use & Enrollment

AAA Vision Discount:

• No separate enrollment needed—just be an active AAA member.

• Show your membership card at participating providers to receive the discount.

• No digital tools or ID cards specific to vision benefits.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Quick and easy online enrollment.

• Access to a member portal with ID cards, provider lookup, and benefit details.

• Mobile-friendly and compatible with online eyewear stores like Glasses.com and ContactsDirect.

🎁 Extras & Discounts

AAA Vision Discount:

• 20% off exams, 30% off glasses and sunglasses, and 10% off contacts at participating retailers.

• Often includes limited-time offers or seasonal promotions.

• Not valid in combination with vision insurance or other discounts.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Discounts on LASIK surgery, additional pairs of glasses, blue light protection lenses, and lens coatings.

• Offers savings at online retailers for frames and contact lenses.

• Occasional perks like free shipping, adjustments, or cleanings at retail partners.

🎯 Best For…

AAA Vision Discount:

• Current AAA members looking for casual savings on basic vision needs.

• Clients who only need an occasional eye exam or glasses and prefer shopping at retail chains.

• People who don’t want to enroll in or pay for a separate vision program.

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Individuals and families seeking ongoing vision care savings without full insurance.

• Frequent users of eye exams or eyewear who want broad provider access.

• Anyone not eligible for employer-sponsored vision insurance.

✅ Pros and Cons

AAA Vision Discount
Pros:
✔ Free with AAA membership
✔ Easy to use—no signup required
✔ Retail-focused savings at popular chains

Cons:
✖ Not customizable
✖ No access to independent optometrists unless partnered
✖ Limited to AAA’s retail deals and not insurance-compliant

EyeMed Access Plan
Pros:
✔ Large provider network
✔ Affordable monthly pricing
✔ Consistent discounts on exams, glasses, and more
✔ Digital tools and retail + online support

Cons:
✖ Not free—requires separate enrollment and payment
✖ Not true insurance—no reimbursements or out-of-network claims

🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the AAA Vision Discount if you’re already a AAA member and want basic, no-commitment savings on vision services at national chains.

Choose the EyeMed Access Plan if you want more robust, year-round savings, access to a larger provider network, and digital tools to manage your benefits.

While both are discount programs rather than insurance, EyeMed offers greater flexibility, especially for families or individuals who get eye care more than once a year.

📞 How to Get a Quote or Enroll

AAA Vision Discount:

• Visit www.AAA.com

• Navigate to member benefits > vision savings

• Show your AAA membership card at the time of service at participating locations

EyeMed Access Plan:

• Visit www.eyemed.com

• Choose the Access Plan under individual/family vision plans

• Enroll online and get instant access to your digital ID and benefits