When it comes to purchasing contact lenses online, many people wonder about the legitimacy and reliability of 1-800 Contacts, one of the largest online contact lens retailers in the United States. This comprehensive review will examine the company's credentials, services, and customer experiences to help you make an informed decision about purchasing your contact lenses through this provider.
Company Background and Legitimacy
1-800 Contacts is a well-established company that has been in business since 1995. As a FDA-registered contact lens seller, they maintain strict compliance with federal regulations and industry standards for contact lens sales. The company operates from their headquarters in Utah and maintains partnerships with major contact lens manufacturers to ensure authentic product sourcing.
Prescription Verification Process
The company follows a rigorous prescription verification process to ensure safety and compliance with federal law. They verify all prescriptions directly with eye care providers before processing orders. For added convenience, they offer an online prescription renewal service through their ExpressExam platform, allowing eligible customers to renew their prescriptions virtually.
Online Prescription Renewal Requirements
- Valid previous prescription not expired for more than one year
- No significant changes in vision
- Good overall eye health
- Age requirements (18 years or older)
Product Selection and Insurance Coverage
1-800 Contacts carries an extensive inventory of contact lens brands, including major manufacturers like Acuvue, Air Optix, and Bausch + Lomb. They accept most major vision insurance plans and can process claims directly, making the purchase process more convenient and affordable for customers.
Available Brands and Types
- Daily disposable lenses
- Monthly replacement lenses
- Toric lenses for astigmatism
- Multifocal options
- Colored contact lenses
Pricing and Price Match Guarantee
The company offers competitive pricing and backs their prices with a Best Price Guarantee. If customers find a lower advertised price from an authorized retailer, 1-800 Contacts will beat that price by $1 per box. This guarantee applies to any legitimate competitor, including brick-and-mortar stores and online retailers.
Shipping and Return Policies
Standard shipping is free for most orders, with expedited options available. Their return policy is notably generous, offering full refunds on unopened boxes with no time limit. Even opened boxes can be returned if customers are unsatisfied with their purchase, demonstrating the company's commitment to customer satisfaction.
Customer Service Experience
The company provides 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Their representatives are trained to handle prescription verifications, insurance inquiries, and general customer service matters professionally and efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1-800 Contacts a legitimate and trustworthy company to buy contact lenses from? Yes, 1-800 Contacts is a legitimate, FDA-registered contact lens retailer with over 25 years of experience. They source directly from manufacturers and maintain strict quality control standards.
How does 1-800 Contacts verify prescriptions and can I renew my contact lens prescription online? The company verifies all prescriptions with eye care providers before shipping orders. They also offer online prescription renewal through their ExpressExam service for eligible customers with valid previous prescriptions.
Does 1-800 Contacts accept vision insurance and what brands of contact lenses do they offer? Yes, they accept most major vision insurance plans and carry all major contact lens brands, including Acuvue, Air Optix, Bausch + Lomb, and many others.
What are common customer experiences with 1-800 Contacts' shipping, customer service, and returns? Customers generally report positive experiences with free standard shipping, 24/7 customer service availability, and a generous return policy that includes full refunds on unopened boxes with no time limit.
How does 1-800 Contacts' price match guarantee work, and are their contact lenses cheaper than other retailers? Their Best Price Guarantee promises to beat any authorized retailer's price by $1 per box. While prices may vary, this guarantee ensures customers receive competitive pricing on their contact lens purchases.
