The Pensioners & Surviving Spouses Health Fund offers you comprehensive and affordable vision benefit option insured by Vision Service Plan (VSP).
You may choose to purchase vision coverage within 60 days of the date when first eligible. Once you enroll, you may not change or terminate your vision coverage until the next open enrollment period (explained next).
Pensioners who did not enroll in vision coverage when first eligible may only enroll during the annual open enrollment period October 1 – November 30, 2024 for coverage that begins the following January 1. Download a Vision Enrollment Form or get a copy from the Fund Office or your local union during the open enrollment period. Vision coverage begins January 1 following the date your properly completed form is timely received by the Fund Office.
To enroll, you must complete a Vision Enrollment Form and submit to the Fund Office by email, fax or mail.
Once enrolled, you may not cancel coverage for you or your covered spouse or domestic partner until the next open enrollment period (scheduled in late fall for changes effective the following January 1). If you cancel coverage, you may not re-enroll for vision coverage until the next open enrollment period in the following year. Any cancellation will apply to you and your covered spouse or domestic partner.
Monthly premiums for vision coverage are shown in this chart. Keep in mind that premium amounts may change.
Note: This amount is in addition to the monthly premium for your medical coverage.
Vision premiums must be deducted from your Southern California Pipe Trades Retirement Fund pension benefit, if any. If you are not receiving a pension benefit (or if the pension benefit is not enough to cover the premiums), your premiums must be automatically deducted from a bank account. Contact the Fund Office for details.
Note: VSP premiums will not be accepted by check, money order, cash or any other method.
VSP benefits are available when you or your covered spouse or domestic partner see an eye care professional for an exam or need vision materials or supplies.
Once you verify that you are enrolled, simply call a vision provider to schedule an appointment and let them know you have VSP coverage. If you go to a VSP provider, you are only responsible for copays, VSP handles the rest. If you use an out-of-network provider, your out-of-pocket costs will typically be higher. You would also pay in full at time of service and submit claims/receipts directly to VSP for reimbursement.
It’s easy to choose VSP providers (or check whether your current eye doctors or optometrist participate in the VSP network). Simply visit vsp.com or call (800) 877-7195 to find a VSP provider in your area.
TIP: If you’re in need of urgent eye care services, have lost or broken glasses, or need contact lens refills, contact VSP at (800) 877-7195 or your VSP network doctor.
This chart shows an example of how VSP coverage works and what you pay in-network. [Link to current VSP Vision Benefits Summary on side 2 of the pensioners’ open enrollment flyer.
For more information, visit vsp.com or call VSP at (800) 877-7195. If you need more help, contact the Fund Office.
Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about vision coverage.
For more information, refer to the Summary Plan Description or contact the Fund Office. Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about the Pensioners & Surviving Spouses Health Fund.
