Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering Your Eyewear
What’s needed to order?
You need a copy of your eyeglasses prescription. You can enter it at check-out, fax it to us (800-878-4627), or send it in an email to info@glassesinaday.com.
You also need to know your “PD,” this is the distance, in millimeters, between your two eyes. If you don’t readily have it information available, you can measure it yourself our printable PD Ruler or ask your eye doctor for the measurement.
Once we have all of this information we will make up your prescription eyeglasses and ship them out to you the same day!
How do I read and understand my prescription?
Abbreviation | Meaning |
O.D. | Right Eye |
O.S. | Left Eye |
O.U. | Both Eyes |
DIST or D.V. | Distance Vision |
NEAR or N.V. | Near Vision |
Add | Additional reading correction |
SPH: This stands for spherical and should contain a number or say “Plano” (or “PL” for short)
CYL: This stands for cylindrical and may be left blank by your doctor.
*Note: Doctors may write this as a positive number (example: +1.25) or as a negative number (example: -1.25), but they do not mean the same thing. If entering you prescription at check-out, please be sure you note the correct plus (+) or minus (-) sign.
AXIS: This is a number between 1 and 180. If the CYL value on your prescription is blank, listed as 0.00, SPH, or DS then the AXIS should also be blank.
What if I’m confused about my prescription?
No problem! If you’re not sure, we recommend that you email or fax (800-878-4627) us a copy of your prescription and we will be able to figure it out. You can always take a picture of your prescription and attach it to an email, then send to info@glassesinaday.com.
If we have any questions we’ll be sure to let you know before shipping your glasses.
Can I order the frame only?
Yes, please simply select this option at check-out. Or enter your prescription as PL or 0.00 for both eyes.
How do I know if the frame I like is in stock?
If the frame is listed on our site, then we have it in stock. We stock hundreds of frames to make sure we have yours in stock and ready to ship out the same day.
How do I know if you have my lenses in stock?
We stock thousands of lenses to ensure your prescription eyeglasses are ready to ship out the same day your order. Over 99% of prescriptions we have in stock, but if you would like to be sure please send an email to info@glassesinaday.com and we will let you know right away! Traditional bifocals and progressive no-line bifocals take an additional one to two days processing.
What is the cut-off time I have to order by to have my eyeglasses shipped the same day?
We require that all orders be placed by 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, so that we have enough time to make your glasses and get them shipped out the same day. However, if it’s after the cut-off time please send an email to info@glassesinaday.com and we’ll try to accommodate your needs. Traditional bifocals and progressive no-line bifocals take an additional one to two days processing.
Can I change my order?
Since we process, complete, and ship all orders right away it may be difficult to change your order. However, we will make every effort to comply with your request. Simply send us an email: info@glassesinaday.com.
Can I check my order status?
Upon receipt of your prescription and PD (pupillary distance) we will process, complete, and ship your single vision order that same day! We will provide you with the tracking information so you can see when your glasses will arrive. If you have any other questions regarding your order status, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Measurements and Pupillary Distance (P.D.):
What is a Pupillary Distance or P.D.?
This is simply the distance, in millimeters, between your two eyes. We need it to make your eyeglasses so that you’re able to see clearly from your new glasses. You may have two numbers for your PD; one for the left eye and one for the right.
Where can I obtain my P.D.?
You can ask your optometrist or ophthalmologist for this measurement at your eye examination. S/he may also include the measurement on your prescription.
If you don’t have it, you can go into a local eyeglasses store or optician and ask to have your P.D. measured. The last place your ordered your eyewear from should have this on file.
Alternatively, you may measure your PD by using our printable PD Ruler.
Can I measure my P.D. myself?
Absolutely. All you need is a millimeter ruler and a mirror. Alternatively, you could ask a friend or family member to measure it for you, without using a mirror.
Alternatively, you may measure your PD by using our printable PD Ruler.
What is a typical P.D. measurement?
The average P.D. for an adult ranges between roughly 55 and 68 millimeters. However, you may be slightly out of this range on either end. If you obtain a measurement that is far off (e.g. 45) you will want to measure again.
Why is the P.D. measurement necessary?
The P.D. measurement is necessary so that the optical center of the eyeglass lens lines up with the center of your pupil. This ensure the best possible vision out of your new eyeglasses.
Location:
Do you have any retail locations?
At the moment, we do not have a physical retail location. However, at some point in the future we may open showrooms.
Where are you located?
We’re located in right outside of Boston, Massachusetts and can now ship internationally. All orders are processed, completed, packaged, and shipped from our Massachusetts location. We’re proud to employ local lab technicians, customer service personnel, frame buyers, and packing/shipping staff in an attempt to help our local economy.
Prescription:
Where do I get my prescription?
You need to visit a licensed optometrist who can examine your eyes and write a valid prescription for eyeglasses. Please also ask your optometrist for your PD (pupillary distance) measurement.
Can I use my contact lens prescription?
Unfortunately, your contact lens prescription is different from your eyeglasses prescription so we cannot use that. However, the optometrist who examined you for contact lenses likely has a copy of your eyeglass prescription on file.
What if my eyeglass prescription is expired?
If your eyeglass prescription is expired we are unable to use it to process your order. Please visit a local optometrist to get your prescription updated. Please also ask your optometrist for your PD (pupillary distance) measurement.
Is my prescription for distance, reading, or both?
Please select whether you would like to use your prescription for distance, reading, or bifocals at checkout. Once we have a copy of your prescription we will be able to interpret it according to your usage preference.
Once you have your prescription, you’re able to decide what type of lenses you’d like. We can interpret it according to your usage preference. We offer single vision distance, single vision reading, traditional bifocals (with a line), and progressives bifocals (without a line).
Can I order bifocals or progressive lenses?
Yes, you may order bifocals (with a line) or progressive lenses (without a line). However, these lenses are more costly and typically require one to two extra business day processing. To order bifocals or progressive lenses, please select this option during the checkout process. Also, please be sure to include your PD.
My prescription is strong, are you able to fill it?
Absolutely! We specialize in working with both strong and complex prescriptions. We’re able to ship most glasses the same day, including high-index compressed lenses. Some more complicated prescriptions may take an additional day to process. If you have any questions regarding your prescription, feel free to Contact Us.
What if I have astigmatism?
That’s no problem, most eyeglasses wearers have some astigmatism! Most of those prescriptions can also be filled and shipped out the same day.
Can you make prescription sunglasses?
Yes we can! Prescription sunglasses take an extra day or two to process your order and are available at an additional cost. Any frame we sell can be turned into prescription sunglasses. Please contact us via email at info@glassesinaday.com to inquire about prescription sunglasses.
Frames and Lenses:
What kind of lenses do you use?
We use high quality hard-resin plastic lenses that are included at no additional cost when you purchase a frame. In addition, a scratch resistant coating is also included on your lenses at no charge!
All lenses are proudly manufactured in compliance with the FDA Impact Resistant Regulation.
Please note that “impact resistant” lenses are neither shatterproof nor unbreakable.
Can I get anti-reflective coating on my lenses?
Yes, anti-reflective and high-index lenses are also available for a small additional charge. Anti-reflective lenses also ship the same day.
What about high index lenses?
Indeed! High index lenses are both lighter in weight and appear thinner than traditional lenses. We are happy to provide high index lenses at an additional charge. High index lenses also ship the same day.
What are your frames made of?
Many of our frames are made out of acetate for plastic or stainless steel for metal. Some of our frames are made out of a flexible plastic-looking material that is extremely durable and light weight.
Can I get polycarbonate lenses?
Yes, we do offer polycarbonate lenses. However, we typically do not recommend them. Polycarbonate lenses are denser than traditional plastic and therefore do not provide the best visual acuity. At the same time, polycarbonate lenses tend to scratch easier than plastic lenses even with a scratch resistant coating.
If you’re concerned about the weight and appearance of traditional plastic lenses, your best option is to select high index plastic. High index plastic is lighter, thinner, and has optical acuity that is superior to that of polycarbonate lenses.
If you’re in an industry (e.g. sports, construction, etc.) that requires impact resistant lenses then we strongly suggest you get polycarbonate lenses due to their durability and impact-resistant nature.
Please email us at info@glassesinaday.com to request polycarbonate lenses. In most cases, these lenses also ship out the same day but may require one additional business day for processing.
Shipping and Exchanges:
How long does it take to get my prescription eyeglasses?
All single vision orders are processed, completed, and shipped the same day your order as long as we have your prescription and pupillary distance.* Free USPS Express or Priority Mail shipping is included with every order, this means your new eyeglasses can arrive as soon as tomorrow to most locations. You may choose to upgrade your shipping to FedEx for an additional charge. Orders placed on Saturday before 3:00 PM EST will arrive on Monday. Orders placed after 3:00 PM EST on Saturday or on Sunday will arrive Tuesday.
We are unable to offer free shipping for international orders (outside of the U.S.); we ship international orders via FedEx Express for one low rate.
Traditional bifocals and progressive no-line bifocals take an additional one to two days processing.
Please see the chart below to see how long it will take to receive your new glasses*
What is the charge for shipping?
We provide free shipping with every order via USPS Express or Priority Mail. This ensures your glasses can arrive as soon as the next day to most locations in the contiguous United States, but not all.
If you’d like, you may choose to upgrade your shipping to FedEx for an additional fee. All orders shipped via FedEx are guaranteed. If your order fails to arrive on time when shipped via FedEx, we will refund your additional shipping fee–no questions asked!
We are unable to offer free shipping for international orders (outside of the U.S.); we ship international orders via FedEx Priority International for one low rate.
We ship to Alaska and Hawaii at the same rate, although delivery times are typically longer than those of locations in the contiguous United States.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We are now offering international service to select countries. Our list of countries is always growing and soon we’ll be shipping to your area! International orders (outside of the U.S.) ship via FedEx Priority International for one low rate.
What is your refund policy?
If you’re unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, you can return the glasses and choose a replacement within 14 days from the day you receive your glasses. We want you to be happy with your eyewear!
Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Health Savings Accounts:
Do you accept health insurance for eyeglasses?
Unfortunately, we do not currently accept health insurance. However, if you’re able to get reimbursed by your HMO we will gladly provide you with an itemized receipt. Simply contact us and we’ll get one to you via email or U.S. Mail right away. Typically a copy of your order email will suffice as a receipt.
Can I obtain a receipt for my eyeglasses?
Absolutely. Simply Contact Us and we’ll provide you with an itemized receipt via email or U.S. Mail right away.
Are prescription eyeglasses FSA and HSA eligible?
Yes! You can use funds in your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to purchase prescription eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses. These funds are available for use on prescription eyeglasses, even if you currently have health and/or vision insurance.
How do I purchase eyewear on Glasses in a Day using my FSA or HSA account?
If you have a FSA or HSA credit/debit card you can simply use it at check-out, just like any other card. If you don’t have a FSA or HSA card, you can simply make the purchase with a card of your choice and seek reimbursement from your provider. Typically a copy of your order email will suffice as a receipt.
When do FSA/HSA benefits expire?
Typically benefits expire at the end of a given calendar year, although it can vary by employer. Please check with your provider or plan administrator.
Eyeglass Fit and Sizing:
How do I know what glasses will fit best?
One way to determine the best fit is to look at the measurements in an existing pair of glasses. You might see something that looks like this “49□16 140” or “49-16-140” or “49□16-140.”
The first number (e.g. 49) is the eye size measurement, the horizontal measurement of one lens.
The second number (e.g. 16) is the bridge measurement, or the distance between the two lenses.
The last number (e.g. 140) is the temple measurement, or the length of the piece that goes behind your ears.
You can match up these numbers on your existing glasses to glasses found on Glasses in a Day. If you don’t have a pair or existing glasses, you can always go into a local eyeglasses shop and try some on to see what fits.
Note: All eyeglasses measurements are in millimeters.
What about the lens height (vertical measurement) of the frame?
The lens height, or vertical measurement, isn’t printed inside a pair of eyeglasses. However, you can measure it yourself with a millimeter ruler and match it up to the vertical measurement we provide for each product. In addition, you can match up that measurement to our fitting guide below.
I don’t have a pair of glasses to compare, how do I find a good fit?
All of the glasses on Glasses in a Day have a width measurement and are labeled either Narrow, Medium or Wide. This should serve as a useful guide to finding a good fitting pair of glasses.
Also, you can use the guide below to guide your shopping:
Narrow Fit | Medium Fit | Wide Fit | |
Eye Size Measurement | 43-48 mm | 49-53 mm | 54 mm and above |
Bridge Measurement | 16-17 mm or less | 18-20 mm | 21 mm and above |
Temple/Arm Length | 130-135 mm | 136-141 mm | 142 mm and above |
Lens Height | 20-28 mm | 29-38 mm | 39 mm and above |
What if I get my glasses and they don’t fit?
If you’re eyeglasses arrive and don’t fit properly, your best bet is to bring them into a local eyeglasses shop and ask for an adjustment. Typically, most optical shops don’t charge for adjustments and repairs.
Can I exchange my glasses if I get them and they don’t fit properly?
If your glasses don’t fit properly, you can return the glasses and choose a replacement pair within 14 days from the day you receive your glasses. Simply send an email to info@glassesinaday.com and we’ll process your exchange right away. We want you to be happy with your eyewear!
*Complicated prescriptions may take one addition business day to process, traditional bifocals and progressive multi-focals take an additional one to two business days to arrive. USPS Express or Priority Mail is included free with every order, next day service is available to most locations, but not all. Orders must be received by 3:00 PM (EST) for same day shipping. Orders placed after 3:00 PM (EST) will ship the following day, if you need us to expedite your order and it’s after 3:00 PM please email us at info@glassesinaday.com, we will do our best.