In Australia: How to Claim Reimbursement for Online Glasses

Can You Get Reimbursed for Online Glasses in Australia?

Yes! Many Australian private health insurance providers offer rebates for prescription eyewear, including glasses purchased online. If you bought from NextPair or another online retailer, you can still claim your reimbursement through your extras cover.

✔️ Major insurers like Bupa, Medibank, HCF, and NIB provide optical benefits.
✔️ You must have an extras cover plan that includes optical benefits.
✔️ Reimbursement amounts depend on your policy’s yearly limit.

NextPair makes the process easy! We provide an invoice with all necessary details, and you can download claim forms directly from our website to submit to your insurer.

Step 1: Check Your Optical Benefits

Before making a claim, review your private health insurance plan to check:

✔️ Your optical benefits limit (e.g., $200 per year for eyewear).
✔️ Whether online purchases are eligible for reimbursement.
✔️ If you need to submit a prescription to process the claim.

🟡 Pro Tip: Most insurers reset their benefits annually (often in January or July), so it’s best to claim before your allowance expires!

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To successfully claim your reimbursement, you’ll need:

📄 A detailed itemized receipt (NextPair provides this automatically with your order).
📑 Your insurer’s claim form (download from your health fund or the NextPair website).
🆔 Your insurance policy number (found on your health fund membership card).
👓 A copy of your prescription (if required by your insurer).

✔️ NextPair simplifies this step! Your invoice includes:

• Your name

• Date of purchase

• Prescription details (SPH, CYL, AXIS, PD)

• Cost breakdown (frames, lenses, coatings)

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy of your invoice and claim form for faster processing.

Step 3: Submit Your Claim

Most Australian health funds allow you to claim reimbursements online, via mobile app, in-person, or by mail.

🖥️ Online Submission:
1️⃣ Log in to your health fund’s member portal (e.g., Bupa, Medibank).
2️⃣ Upload your invoice and completed claim form.
3️⃣ Enter your membership details and submit the claim.

📱 Mobile App Submission:
1️⃣ Open your insurer’s mobile app.
2️⃣ Take a photo of your invoice and upload it.
3️⃣ Fill in the claim details and submit.

🏥 In-Person Submission:
1️⃣ Visit a local health fund branch.
2️⃣ Bring your invoice, claim form, and insurance card.
3️⃣ Submit your documents and get a receipt for tracking.

✉️ Mail Submission:
1️⃣ Print and complete your claim form.
2️⃣ Attach a copy of your invoice.
3️⃣ Mail it to your insurer’s claims department.

💡 Pro Tip: Online and app submissions are processed faster than mail-in claims.

Step 4: How Much Will You Get Back?

Your reimbursement amount depends on your extras cover level. Typical optical benefits include:

🟡 Frames: $100 - $250
🟡 Single Vision Lenses: $50 - $150
🟡 Progressive/Bifocal Lenses: $100 - $300
🟡 Lens Coatings (Anti-glare, Blue Light, High-Index): Varies by plan

🟡 Note: Some policies refund a percentage of the cost rather than a fixed amount.

💡 Pro Tip: If your policy covers a set amount per year, consider choosing premium high-index lenses or coatings to maximize your claim.

Step 5: Receive Your Reimbursement

✅ Processing time: Typically 5-10 business days (varies by insurer).
✅ Reimbursement method: Direct deposit or mailed check.

💡 Pro Tip: If your claim is delayed, contact your health fund’s customer support to track its progress.

Final Thoughts: Why Buy Online and Claim Insurance?

Even if an online retailer like NextPair isn’t directly partnered with your health fund, claiming reimbursement can still save you money!

✔️ Online eyewear is often more affordable than in-store optical shops.
✔️ More frame choices, including Asian fit frames designed for better comfort.
✔️ Thinner, lighter lenses for high prescriptions, with high-index technology.
✔️ NextPair provides all required documents, making your claim hassle-free.

🟡👓 Enjoy high-quality eyewear while making the most of your private health insurance benefits!