Understanding Your UFT Welfare Fund Vision Coverage
If you're a UFT member in Brooklyn, your Welfare Fund vision plan covers comprehensive eye exams and eyewear - and Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U is here to help you use those benefits. According to the UFT's optical benefit page, members and their covered dependents can get an eye exam, and eyeglasses or contact lenses, each year (as of October 2026). The best way to confirm what's covered is to call us at (718) 998-8400 or verify your benefits through Zocdoc before your visit. Coverage varies by plan - we recommend confirming your benefits in advance so there are no surprises.
Many UFT members in Sheepshead Bay, Brighton Beach, and neighboring Brooklyn neighborhoods choose us because we're local, we speak your language, and we know how to navigate union vision plans. We've been serving Brooklyn families and professionals since 1995, and we work directly with UFT Welfare Fund to make sure your visit is as smooth as possible.
What Your UFT Vision Plan Typically Covers
The UFT's optical benefit page says the benefit includes a complete pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses and, if necessary, a basic eye exam, each year. Your exam at Vision Palace Optical includes vision screening, eye health evaluation, and checks for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye. If you use a non-participating provider instead, the Fund reimburses you up to a set amount, so it's important to confirm your specific benefits before selecting your eyewear.
When you come in for your eye exam, we'll discuss your coverage and show you which frames and lenses your benefit includes. We carry designer frames as well as practical, affordable options; if you choose something your benefit doesn't include, we'll tell you the cost upfront. No surprises.
Our doctors, Dr. Julia Sheyko and Dr. Alexander Shlivko, both have extensive experience working with union vision plans and will make sure your exam covers everything your health needs. We also offer advanced lens options like photochromic lenses, blue light protection, and anti-reflective coating, which may have additional costs depending on your plan.
How to Use Your UFT Vision Benefits at Vision Palace Optical
Using your UFT Welfare Fund vision benefits at our Avenue U location is straightforward. First, verify your coverage by calling us at (718) 998-8400 or booking through Zocdoc and providing your UFT member ID. Let us know your plan details so we can confirm what your exam and eyewear benefit covers.
When you arrive for your appointment, bring your UFT Welfare Fund member card and any documentation of your vision benefits. Our team will file your claim directly with your plan, so you won't have to handle paperwork yourself. After your exam, Dr. Sheyko or Dr. Shlivko will discuss your results and help you select frames and lenses that fit your prescription and your budget.
We're open Monday through Saturday at 1723 Avenue U in Sheepshead Bay, so it's easy to stop by on your way home from work or on a weekend. Walk-ins are welcome, for a comprehensive eye exam or frame browsing, and you can also book your exam ahead through Zocdoc.
Common Questions About UFT Vision Coverage
Does my UFT plan cover an eye exam at Vision Palace Optical?
Yes. According to the UFT's optical benefit page, members and covered dependents can get an eye exam, and eyeglasses or contact lenses, each year. We accept UFT. To confirm your specific coverage, call us at (718) 998-8400 or book through Zocdoc and let us know your plan details. Coverage varies by plan - we recommend verifying before your visit.
What frames and lenses does my UFT vision benefit cover?
According to the UFT's optical benefit page, you can use the benefit for a complete pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses. We carry frames at many price points, from practical options to designer frames, and we'll show you which ones your benefit includes. Advanced lens options like photochromic lenses or anti-reflective coating may have additional costs - we'll explain all options during your visit.
How often can I have an eye exam with my UFT vision benefits?
According to the UFT's optical benefit page, members and covered dependents can get an eye exam, and eyeglasses or contact lenses, each year. If you need an additional exam within the same year, whether it's covered depends on your plan and on whether the visit is medically necessary. Our doctors can discuss whether a follow-up visit is medically necessary, and we can help you understand your coverage.
Can I use my UFT vision benefits for contact lenses?
According to the UFT's optical benefit page, the benefit includes eyeglasses or contact lenses, so you can use it for contacts instead of glasses. To check what's included for the fitting, call us at (718) 998-8400 or bring your member card when you visit. We offer comprehensive contact lens fittings for all types of lenses - daily, monthly, toric, and multifocal - and we'll work with your plan to maximize your benefits.
What if I don't know my UFT plan details?
No problem - call our office at (718) 998-8400 and we can help you figure out your coverage. You can also contact your UFT benefits office directly, or check your member card for plan information. Once we know your plan details, we'll verify your benefits before your appointment so there are no surprises on your visit day.
Do you offer other insurance plans besides UFT?
Yes - we accept a wide range of vision insurance plans, including EyeMed, MetroPlus Health Plan, Medicaid, Medicare, Fidelis Care, 1199SEIU, Healthfirst, and many others. If you're not sure whether we accept your plan, call us or book through Zocdoc to verify. Coverage varies by plan, so we always recommend confirming your benefits in advance.
Why Choose Vision Palace Optical for Your UFT Eye Exam
We've been in the Sheepshead Bay neighborhood for over 30 years, and we understand how union vision plans work. Our team speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, so communication is never a barrier. We take time to explain your exam results, discuss your vision needs, and help you find eyewear that works for your life and your budget.
Dr. Julia Sheyko and Dr. Alexander Shlivko are both experienced optometrists who work with patients from all backgrounds and insurance plans. Whether you need a routine eye exam, advanced lens technology like myopia control lenses for your kids, or specialized care for dry eye or glaucoma screening, we're equipped to help.
We also make it easy to use your benefits - we file claims directly with your plan, so you don't have to worry about paperwork. And if you have questions about your coverage, our team is happy to help clarify.
Schedule Your UFT Eye Exam Today
Your UFT Welfare Fund vision benefits are there for you to use. Don't let them go unused. Book your eye exam at Vision Palace Optical through Zocdoc or call us at (718) 998-8400. We're at 1723 Avenue U in Brooklyn, open Monday through Saturday. Bring your UFT member card, and we'll take care of the rest.