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. Your plan typically includes coverage for annual eye exams, frames, and lenses, though the exact amount depends on your specific plan year and enrollment. 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
UFT Welfare Fund vision plans generally cover a comprehensive eye exam once per calendar year. This includes vision screening, eye health evaluation, and checks for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye. Your plan also includes an allowance toward frames and lenses — the amount varies, 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 help you choose frames within your benefit allowance. We carry designer frames (Dita, Gucci, Prada, Tom Ford, Ray-Ban, Tiffany, and many others) as well as practical, affordable options that work with your plan. If you go over your allowance, you'll only pay the difference — 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 Transitions lenses, blue light protection, and Crizal 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 allowance 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 frame browsing, though we recommend booking an appointment for your comprehensive eye exam through Zocdoc to minimize wait time.
Common Questions About UFT Vision Coverage
Does my UFT plan cover an eye exam at Vision Palace Optical?
Yes — UFT Welfare Fund vision plans typically cover a comprehensive eye exam once per year at in-network providers. We're an approved provider for most UFT plans. 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?
UFT plans usually include an allowance for frames and lenses. The amount depends on your specific plan year. We carry frames at many price points, from practical options to designer brands like Gucci, Prada, and Tom Ford. If you select frames above your allowance, you'll pay the difference. Advanced lens options like Transitions lenses or Crizal 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?
Most UFT Welfare Fund plans cover one comprehensive eye exam per calendar year. If you need an additional exam within the same year, you may be responsible for the full cost, though this depends on your specific plan. 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?
Some UFT plans include coverage for contact lens fittings and supplies, while others do not. The best way to find out is to 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 Stellest 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.