Can you cancel your Planet Fitness membership online? Usually, no, you cannot simply cancel your Planet Fitness membership through their website or app. To stop paying for your membership, you generally need to visit your home club in person or send a letter by certified mail. Doing this the right way helps you avoid extra fees and makes sure your payments stop. This guide will walk you through the steps.
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Grasping the Planet Fitness Cancellation Process
Getting out of a gym membership can feel tricky. Planet Fitness has specific rules you must follow. They do this to manage memberships properly. They want a clear record when someone leaves. This is why you cannot just click a button online or send an email. You need to follow their set process. Knowing this from the start is important. It sets the stage for what you need to do.
Their rules are part of the Planet Fitness cancellation policy. This policy explains how you must ask to cancel. It also covers things like fees and when your cancellation takes effect. Not following the policy can mean your membership doesn’t stop, and you keep getting charged. That’s something you want to avoid.
Reviewing the Planet Fitness Cancellation Policy
Every gym has rules for stopping your membership. Planet Fitness is no different. Their rules depend on the type of membership you have. Most people have one of two main types:
- No Commitment Membership: This lets you pay month-to-month. You can cancel anytime. There is usually no fee for canceling this type of plan, as long as you follow the rules.
- Annual Commitment Membership: This plan is often cheaper per month, but you agree to stay for a full year. If you cancel before the year is up, you might have to pay a cancellation fee.
The Planet Fitness cancellation policy says you must give written notice. Written notice means you need to put your request in writing. Sending an email or calling is usually not enough. The two ways they accept written notice are:
- Visiting your home club in person.
- Sending a letter by certified mail.
It’s very important to know which type of membership you have. Look at your membership agreement or contract. This paper has all the details about your plan, including the rules for canceling and any fees. Find this document before you try to cancel. It will tell you if you have an annual fee coming up or if you have a yearly contract ending soon.
Timing is also a big part of the policy. Planet Fitness usually needs your cancellation request by a certain date in the month. This date is often the 10th of the month. If you miss this date, you might be charged for the next month’s dues. For example, if your bill is due on the 17th of each month, you might need to cancel before the 10th of that same month to not be charged on the 17th. If you try to cancel on the 11th, you might still be charged on the 17th, and your membership would end after that billing cycle. Check your specific club’s rules or your contract for the exact date.
Also, some memberships have an annual fee. This fee is charged once a year, often around the date you joined. If your cancellation isn’t complete before this fee is due, you will be charged the annual fee even if you are trying to cancel. Planning your cancellation timing is key to avoid this Planet Fitness cancellation fee.
Methods for Cancelling Your Membership
As we said, you have two main ways to cancel. Both need you to be proactive. You cannot rely on quick digital methods like email or an online Planet Fitness cancellation form (because there isn’t one readily available for cancelling memberships this way).
Method A: Canceling Planet Fitness Membership In Person
This is one of the most common ways people cancel. It lets you speak directly with staff and get things done on the spot.
Here are the steps:
Picking the Right Time to Go
Go during slower hours if possible. Mid-morning or early afternoon on a weekday might be less busy than peak evening hours or weekends. This way, staff will have more time to help you.
What to Bring With You
- Your ID: Bring a photo ID like a driver’s license. They need to check who you are.
- Membership Information: Bring your membership card or account number. This helps them find your account quickly.
- Your Membership Agreement: If you have it, bring your contract. It has details about your membership type and rules.
- Proof of Address: Sometimes they might ask for something showing your address, like a utility bill.
Talking to the Staff
When you get to the club, tell the person at the front desk you want to cancel your membership. They will likely direct you to a manager or a specific staff member who handles cancellations. Be polite but firm about your request. You are there to cancel.
Filling Out the Paperwork
The staff member will give you a Planet Fitness cancellation form or some other document to fill out. This is the written notice they need. You will likely need to provide:
- Your name
- Your membership number
- Your contact information
- The reason for canceling (you don’t have to give a detailed reason, but they might ask)
- Your signature
Read the form carefully before you sign it. Make sure it clearly states you are canceling your membership.
Getting Confirmation
This is a very important step. Do not leave the club without proof that you started the cancellation process. Ask the staff member for a copy of the form you filled out. They should give you a signed and dated copy. This paper is your proof. It shows you followed their rules on that date. If there are issues later, this paper is your evidence.
- What to ask for: A copy of the signed cancellation form, a confirmation number, or a written note from the staff showing the date and time of your visit for cancellation purposes.
- Keep this safe: File this paper away. You might need it if there are billing problems later.
What to Expect After Cancelling In Person
Your membership won’t end the exact moment you hand in the form. The cancellation usually takes effect after your next billing cycle, depending on the date you submit the form compared to your billing date. For example, if you submit it on the 5th of the month and your bill is on the 17th, your membership might end before the next 17th. If you submit it on the 15th, and your bill is on the 17th, you will likely be charged on the 17th, and your membership will end before the following 17th. The staff should explain the exact end date.
Method B: Canceling Via Planet Fitness Certified Letter Cancellation
If going to the club is hard for you, you can send a certified letter. This is the other way Planet Fitness accepts written cancellation notice. Sending a letter by certified mail gives you proof it was sent and received.
Here are the steps:
Why Certified Mail is Needed
Regular mail can get lost. You have no way to prove Planet Fitness got your letter. Certified mail requires someone at Planet Fitness to sign for the letter. The post office gives you a receipt when you send it. Once it’s delivered, the post office sends you proof of delivery, either a physical card or an electronic notice. This proof is key. It shows you sent the letter and that they received it on a specific date. This protects you if they claim they never got your request.
How to Write Planet Fitness Cancellation Letter
You need to write a letter stating you want to cancel. We will cover what to put in the letter in the next section. Make sure it is clear and includes all needed information.
Sending the Letter
- Prepare the Letter: Write and print your cancellation letter.
- Find the Address: You need to send the letter to your home club. Find the full address of the Planet Fitness location where you joined. You can find this on their website or your membership agreement. Do not send it to their corporate office unless your specific club tells you to.
- Go to the Post Office: Take your letter to a United States Post Office.
- Ask for Certified Mail: Tell the postal worker you want to send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. The “return receipt” is the part that gives you confirmation it was delivered and signed for.
- Pay the Fee: There is a small fee for certified mail and the return receipt service. Pay this fee.
- Keep Your Receipts: The postal worker will give you a receipt. This receipt has a tracking number. Keep this receipt safe!
- Track the Delivery: Use the tracking number on the USPS website to see when the letter is delivered and who signed for it.
- Receive Proof of Delivery: The post office will send you back the green card (physical receipt) or email you the electronic proof once the letter is delivered and signed for. This is your official proof of delivery. Keep this paper or email forever.
What to Expect After Sending the Letter
Just like canceling in person, the cancellation is not instant. Once the club receives your certified letter (and they process it according to their policy), your membership will usually end after your next billing cycle, depending on when they received it relative to your billing date. The date they sign for the letter is the date your request is officially received. They should process it based on this date.
Using certified mail is a powerful way to protect yourself. It removes any argument from Planet Fitness that they did not receive your cancellation notice.
Crafting Your Cancellation Letter
Writing the Planet Fitness cancellation letter is not difficult, but it must include key pieces of information. A clear, simple letter is best.
Here is what your letter should include:
Your Information
- Your Full Name: Write your name exactly as it appears on your membership.
- Your Membership Number: This is very important for them to find your account. Find this number on your membership card or contract.
- Your Address: The address linked to your membership.
- Your Phone Number: So they can contact you if needed (though they usually won’t).
- Your Email Address: Another way they might contact you.
Statement of Intent
Clearly state that you want to cancel your membership.
- Example: “I am writing to request the cancellation of my Planet Fitness membership.”
Membership Details
Mention which club is your home club.
- Example: “My home club is located at [Street Address of Your Planet Fitness Club], [City, State, Zip Code].”
Effective Date (Optional but Recommended)
You can request an effective date for the cancellation. This is usually at the end of your current billing cycle, after the required notice period.
- Example: “I request that my membership be canceled effective at the end of my current billing period, or as soon as possible according to your policy.”
Request for Confirmation
Ask for written confirmation that your membership has been canceled.
- Example: “Please send me written confirmation of my membership cancellation to the address listed above.”
Date and Signature
- Date: Put the date you are writing the letter.
- Your Signature: Sign the letter.
- Your Typed Name: Type your name below your signature.
Sample Letter Outline:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Street Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Planet Fitness Membership Number]
[Date]
Planet Fitness
[Street Address of Your Home Club]
[City, State, Zip Code of Your Home Club]
Subject: Membership Cancellation Request
Dear Planet Fitness Membership Department,
I am writing to request the cancellation of my Planet Fitness membership, account number [Your Membership Number].
My home club is located at [Street Address of Your Planet Fitness Club], [City, State, Zip Code].
I request that my membership be canceled effective at the end of my current billing period, or as soon as possible according to your policy requirements.
Please send me written confirmation of my membership cancellation to the address listed above.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Full Name]
Make sure everything is easy to read. Keep a copy of the signed letter for your records before you send the original via certified mail. This letter, combined with the certified mail proof, is your key document.
Costs and Fees: The Planet Fitness Cancellation Fee
Nobody wants to pay fees just to stop using a service. Planet Fitness has fees you should know about, mainly the Planet Fitness cancellation fee and the annual fee.
Annual Commitment Cancellation Fee
If you signed up for an Annual Commitment membership, you agreed to stay for a full year. If you try to cancel before that year is over, Planet Fitness might charge you a fee. This fee can be around $50 or more. The exact amount should be in your contract.
- How to avoid it: The best way to avoid this fee is to wait until your initial commitment period is over before canceling. Check your contract to find the end date of your first year. You can usually cancel without this fee once your first year is complete.
Annual Fee
Planet Fitness also charges an annual fee (sometimes called a “Black Card annual fee” or similar) for most membership types, usually once a year. This fee is separate from your monthly dues. It is often charged around the date you first joined.
- How to avoid it: If you cancel your membership before your annual fee is due, you will not be charged the fee. For example, if your annual fee is charged every July 1st, make sure your cancellation is fully processed before July 1st. Remember the timing issue: you need to give written notice usually before the 10th of the month to avoid the next month’s charge. So, to avoid a July 1st annual fee, you would likely need to have your cancellation request processed by the required date (e.g., June 10th) in the month before the fee is due.
Planning is key to saving money. Know your membership type, your billing date, the annual fee date, and the club’s cutoff date for cancellations.
Common Issues and Problems Cancelling Planet Fitness
Sometimes, even when you follow the rules, you might face issues. Many people report problems cancelling Planet Fitness memberships. Knowing these common issues can help you deal with them.
Staff Making it Difficult
Sometimes, gym staff might try to convince you not to cancel. They might offer you deals or make the cancellation process seem complicated or slow. Remember, you have the right to cancel according to your contract. Be polite but firm. If they say you must speak to a specific manager who is never there, ask for their name and when they will be there, or insist that the staff member present must help you initiate the process.
Claims They Did Not Receive Your Request
This is a big one. You send a letter or hand in a form, but they keep charging you. When you call, they say they have no record of your cancellation request. This is why getting proof is VITAL.
- If you canceled in person: Show them the signed and dated copy of the cancellation form you kept.
- If you sent certified mail: Show them the certified mail tracking information and the proof of delivery card/email signed by a staff member.
This proof shows they received your request on a certain date. If they still refuse to stop billing, you can use this evidence when contacting your bank or credit card company to dispute the charges.
Continued Billing After Cancellation
Even after you get confirmation, check your bank or credit card statements. Make sure the monthly charges from Planet Fitness stop. Give it one full billing cycle after your expected end date. If charges continue, contact the club with your proof of cancellation. If they do not resolve it, dispute the charges with your bank. Your bank or credit card company can often reverse charges if you provide proof that you canceled according to the gym’s policy.
Difficulty Reaching Planet Fitness Customer Service Cancel Department
Planet Fitness member services are usually handled at the local club level. There isn’t a central Planet Fitness customer service cancel line that can process cancellations for all clubs. You generally must go through your home club, either in person or by mail. If you call the club directly, they might still tell you that you need to come in or send a letter. Calling member services numbers often only helps with general questions, not cancellation processing.
Annual Fee Charged Unexpectedly
This happens if you miss the cancellation deadline before the annual fee is due. Review your contract and billing history to know your annual fee date. Plan your cancellation well in advance of this date to avoid the charge.
Dealing with these issues requires patience and keeping good records. Your proof of cancellation is your strongest tool.
Alternatives to Cancelling
Maybe you don’t want to cancel forever. Maybe you just need a break. Planet Fitness offers another option: freezing your membership.
Freeze Planet Fitness Membership
If you are traveling, injured, or just need to pause your payments for a while, you might be able to freeze Planet Fitness membership. This stops your monthly billing for a limited time.
How it Works
- Eligibility: You usually need to be a member in good standing (payments up to date).
- Time Limit: There is usually a limit on how long you can freeze your membership, often 3 or 4 months. You might need a doctor’s note for a medical freeze lasting longer.
- How to Request: Freezing usually requires visiting your home club in person or possibly sending a written request. Check with your specific club.
- Cost: Sometimes there is a small fee to freeze, but it is much less than monthly dues. In other cases, freezing is free. Your monthly payments stop during the freeze period.
- What Happens After: Your membership automatically becomes active again after the freeze period ends, and billing restarts.
When Freezing is a Good Idea
Freezing is a good choice if:
- You know you will use the gym again in a few months.
- You are temporarily unable to use the gym due to travel or health issues.
- You have an annual commitment and freezing allows you to pause payments without breaking the contract early (which would trigger the cancellation fee).
Freezing is not a way to avoid canceling permanently. It’s a temporary pause. If you know you are done with the gym, cancel properly.
Transferring Membership (Less Common)
Some gyms allow you to transfer your membership to another person. Planet Fitness generally does not allow membership transfers. Your membership is usually just for you. Freezing or canceling are the typical options.
Ensuring Your Cancellation is Complete
You’ve gone through the steps. You’ve canceled in person or sent the certified letter. You have your proof. Now, you need to make sure it worked.
Check Your Bank Statements
This is the final confirmation. Look at your bank account or credit card statement for the next couple of months. Make sure that Planet Fitness is no longer taking out the monthly membership fee or the annual fee.
- Expected Stop Date: Based on when you submitted your cancellation and your billing date, you should have an idea of when the last payment should occur.
- What to do if Charged: If you see another charge after the expected end date, contact the club right away. Provide them with your proof of cancellation (the signed form or the certified mail receipt/proof of delivery). If the club does not fix it quickly, dispute the charge with your bank or credit card company and provide them with your proof.
Keep Your Proof Safe
Do not throw away your copy of the cancellation form or your certified mail receipts. Keep them for at least a year. This way, if any unexpected charges or issues come up later, you have the evidence you need.
Canceling a membership requires attention to detail and following the gym’s specific rules. By knowing the Planet Fitness cancellation policy, using the approved methods (in person or certified mail), getting proof, and checking your statements, you can successfully stop your membership and avoid unwanted fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just call Planet Fitness to cancel?
No, usually you cannot cancel just by calling. Planet Fitness requires written notice. This means you must cancel in person at your home club or send a letter by certified mail.
Is there a Planet Fitness cancellation form I can download?
No, there isn’t a standard Planet Fitness cancellation form you can download online and submit. You usually fill out a form when you cancel in person at the club, or you write your own cancellation letter to send via certified mail.
How much is the Planet Fitness cancellation fee?
If you have an Annual Commitment membership and cancel before your first year is up, the cancellation fee can vary, but it is often around $58. Check your specific contract for the exact amount. There is usually no cancellation fee for month-to-month “No Commitment” memberships, as long as you follow the proper cancellation steps and give notice before the monthly deadline.
How does the annual fee affect cancellation?
The annual fee is charged once a year. To avoid paying it, your cancellation must be fully processed before the date the annual fee is scheduled to be billed. Remember to submit your cancellation request (in person or certified mail) by your club’s monthly cutoff date (often the 10th) in the month before the annual fee is due.
Can someone else cancel my Planet Fitness membership for me?
Generally, no. The membership is in your name, and you must be the one to initiate the cancellation. They need to verify your identity.
What if I moved and can’t get to my home club?
If you moved too far away to visit your home club, your option is to send a certified letter to your home club’s address. This is why the certified mail option exists.
What if I lose my proof of cancellation?
Losing your proof makes things harder if issues arise. It’s crucial to keep a copy of the form or the certified mail receipt. If you lose it and problems happen, you might have to argue your case more forcefully or rely on bank records showing when payments stopped (if they did).
How long does it take for the cancellation to be complete?
Once your request is received (either in person or via certified mail), your membership will usually remain active until the end of your next billing cycle, provided you submitted the request before your club’s monthly cutoff date (often the 10th). If you miss the cutoff date, you will likely be billed for one more month, and your membership will end after that period.
Can I freeze my membership instead of canceling?
Yes, you can often freeze Planet Fitness membership for a limited time (like 3-4 months). This stops your billing temporarily. It is a good option if you plan to return to the gym. However, if you want to end your membership permanently, you must cancel it. Freezing usually needs to be done in person or with a written request.
What should I do if Planet Fitness keeps charging me after I cancelled?
First, contact your home club with your proof of cancellation (signed form or certified mail receipt/proof of delivery). If they do not stop the charges, contact your bank or credit card company. Dispute the charges and provide them with your proof that you canceled according to the gym’s policy.
Following these steps carefully should help you cancel your Planet Fitness membership smoothly and prevent unexpected fees.