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How to save money nearly every time

January 30th, 2007 at 08:53 pm

I have a new system. Actually I started it a few years ago when I received sticker shock after being told the cost of repairs on my car. I immediately told the mechanic that I was going to shop around as I couldn't bear the thought of parting with that much money. Anyway, I started to call around, but 5 minutes later the mechanic called me back to say that he had "found" the parts for cheaper elsewhere and would take $50 off the price. (cue the light bulb that went off over my head)
Now I never, ever pay the first price I get without researching the topic first.
Today's example: I am overdue for my eye exam and on my last pair of contacts. I can go to my regular ophthalmologist, who I have gone to since 6th grade, even though he is an out-of-network provider. I will be reimbursed $20 for the exam and $40 for the contacts, which cost $280 at his office for a year's supply. With that year's supply, I will get a $40 rebate. My total cost would be $330 - $40 rebate - $60 reimbursement = $230. Ouch.
I really don't want to change providers. The only network providers I have available to me are all chains (Sears, Penneys, etc). Nothing against chains, but when it comes to doctors, I want one that knows me. However, if I went to a network provider, my cost would be $0 for the exam and $200 for the contacts, or a $30 savings.
Can I do better while still keeping my doctor? I decided to find out.
Aimed with my trusty Internet connection, I did a search for Night and Day contacts (the only brand I will use anymore). I found prices from $42.99-59.99/box (my doctor charges $70), with rebates of $40-50 on orders of 4. Combining the best of these deals would bring my contact cost to $123 with free shipping for a year's supply. Combined with the $50 exam fee from my doctor, I would spend $173, or $27 less than if I stayed in network, plus I would still be eligible for partial reimbursement from my insurance. YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!!!

It ALWAYS pays to check. I just saved over $100 with less than a half hour's work.

2 Responses to “How to save money nearly every time”

  1. debtfreeme Says:
    1170192893

    i have not bought contacts at the doctors office for about 6 years. there is always some place cheaper online or at costco and with rebates and stuff it just makes sense. this year i signed up for the health card and by the time i need contacts (in late March or early april depending on usage) i will have more than enough on the card to pay for them and for my monthly prescription. it makes it so much easier.

  2. boomeyers Says:
    1170218271

    Great job Jodi!

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