Contact Lens FAQ — CheapContacts Online

Question 1

Do I need a valid prescription to order contact lenses online?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a valid, unexpired prescription from a licensed eye care professional is required by law for all contact lens orders. Contact lenses are medical devices, and ordering without a prescription is illegal in the United States.

Question 2

How do I know if my contact lens prescription is still valid?

Accepted Answer

Most contact lens prescriptions are valid for 1–2 years from the date of your eye exam, though this varies by state. Check the expiration date printed on your prescription slip or contact lens box. If it's expired, you'll need a new eye exam.

Question 3

Where do I find my contact lens prescription details?

Accepted Answer

Your prescription details are printed on the side of your current contact lens box, or on the prescription slip your eye doctor gave you after your exam. You'll need: sphere (SPH), cylinder (CYL) if applicable, axis if applicable, base curve (BC), and diameter (DIA). Your eye doctor is legally required to give you a copy of your prescription.

Question 4

Can I use my glasses prescription to order contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

No. Contact lens prescriptions and glasses prescriptions are different. A contact lens prescription includes additional measurements like base curve and diameter. If you only have a glasses prescription, you'll need a contact lens fitting from your eye doctor.

Question 5

What if my prescription is for a brand I don't see listed?

Accepted Answer

Contact us before ordering. Many lenses are sold under different brand names, and we may carry an equivalent. We can help you identify the right match for your prescription.

Question 6

How do I place an order for contact lenses online?

Accepted Answer

Click any 'Order Now' or 'Order My Contacts' button on the site — you'll be taken directly to our secure ordering portal. Browse the catalog, select your lenses, enter your prescription details at checkout, and you're done.

Question 7

Are these the exact same contact lenses I get at my eye doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We sell the identical, FDA-approved, name-brand contact lenses — the same Acuvue, Dailies, Biofinity, Air Optix, Proclear, and SofLens products you'd get anywhere else. The only difference is the price.

Question 8

Can I order contact lenses for both eyes if my prescription is different for each?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Most orders allow you to specify different parameters for your right eye (OD) and left eye (OS) separately. This is very common — many people have different prescriptions in each eye.

Question 9

Can I reorder contact lenses easily?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your prescription details are saved securely after your first order, so reordering takes just a few clicks. No re-entering information every time.

Question 10

How long does contact lens shipping take?

Accepted Answer

Most orders ship within 1–2 business days. Standard shipping typically arrives in 5–7 business days. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout if you need your lenses sooner.

Question 11

Is free shipping available on contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

Yes — free shipping is available on qualifying orders. Check the ordering portal for current free shipping thresholds and promotions.

Question 12

Do you ship contact lenses outside the United States?

Accepted Answer

Currently we ship within the United States only. International shipping is not available at this time.

Question 13

What if I receive the wrong contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

If you receive lenses that don't match your order, contact us right away. We'll make it right — whether that means a replacement shipment or a refund. Don't open or wear lenses that don't match your prescription.

Question 14

Can I return contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

Unopened boxes in original condition may be eligible for return or exchange. Opened boxes cannot be returned for health and safety reasons. Contact us within 30 days of receiving your order to initiate a return.

Question 15

What if my contact lenses are damaged or defective?

Accepted Answer

Manufacturer defects are covered. If you find a damaged or defective lens, contact us with your order details and we'll arrange a replacement at no charge.

Question 16

Can I use my vision insurance to buy contact lenses online?

Accepted Answer

We do not currently process vision insurance directly. However, many vision plans include an out-of-network benefit that allows you to submit receipts for reimbursement. Check with your insurance provider — even after reimbursement, our prices are often still lower than in-network retail.

Question 17

Can I use my FSA or HSA to buy contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

Yes — contact lenses are an eligible FSA and HSA expense. You can use your FSA or HSA card at checkout just like a regular debit card.

Question 18

What payment methods do you accept for contact lenses?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as FSA and HSA cards. Payment details are handled securely through our checkout portal.

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