When Can I Cancel My Planet Fitness Membership? Your Definitive Guide

The siren song of a Planet Fitness membership can be tempting: affordable rates and a judgment-free zone promise a welcoming environment. However, life happens. Maybe you’re moving, discovered a love for rock climbing, or simply aren’t using the gym as much as you thought. So, the burning question remains: when can you cancel your Planet Fitness membership? The short answer is that you can cancel anytime, but the method and associated fees depend on the type of membership you have and your individual circumstances. Prepare to dive deep into the cancellation process, because understanding your options is crucial to avoid unwanted charges and frustration.

Understanding Your Planet Fitness Membership

Before we dissect the “how,” let’s ensure you understand the “what.” Planet Fitness primarily offers two membership tiers: the Classic membership and the Black Card membership. Each has its own terms, conditions, and crucially, cancellation implications.

Classic Membership

The Classic membership is the most basic and affordable option. It typically offers access to your home club only. Key takeaway for cancellation: This membership often requires a 12-month commitment.

Black Card Membership

The Black Card membership is the premium option, granting access to any Planet Fitness location, guest privileges, and perks like tanning and massage chairs. Cancelling this membership follows similar guidelines to the Classic, but the expanded privileges don’t alter the fundamental cancellation procedures.

The Nitty-Gritty of Cancellation: How and When

Now for the crux of the matter: how to actually cancel your Planet Fitness membership and, more importantly, when you can do it to minimize any penalties. The key methods for cancellation are outlined below:

• By Mail (Certified): This is the most reliable method. You’ll need to send a written cancellation request to your specific Planet Fitness location. Important: Send it via certified mail with a return receipt request. This provides proof that your request was received.
• In Person: Visit your home club and speak with a staff member about cancellation. Be sure to obtain written confirmation of your cancellation.
• Phone or Email (Rarely Accepted): While some anecdotal evidence suggests success with these methods, Planet Fitness generally requires written notification. Do not rely on these methods unless specifically instructed by gym staff.

Regardless of the chosen method, you need to factor in the following:

• Annual Fee: Planet Fitness charges an annual fee. If you cancel shortly before the annual fee is due, you will likely be charged. Check your membership agreement for the exact billing date.
• 12-Month Commitment: As previously mentioned, both the Classic and Black Card memberships often entail a 12-month commitment. Cancelling before the end of this term may trigger an early termination fee, though exceptions may exist.

When Cancellation is Easier: Qualifying Circumstances

While cancelling before the end of your commitment can be tricky, certain circumstances can simplify the process and potentially waive early termination fees:

• Moving: If you move more than 25 miles from any Planet Fitness location, you may be able to cancel without penalty. You’ll need to provide proof of your new address (e.g., a utility bill or lease agreement).
• Medical Reasons: A documented medical condition preventing you from using the gym can be grounds for cancellation. A doctor’s note will be required.
• Death: In the unfortunate event of a member’s death, the membership can be cancelled with proper documentation (e.g., a death certificate).
• Breach of Contract: While less common, if Planet Fitness significantly alters the terms of your membership agreement without your consent (e.g., closing your home gym), you may have grounds for cancellation without penalty.

The Written Cancellation Request: What to Include

Regardless of your reason for cancelling, your written request should include the following information:

• Your full name
• Your Planet Fitness membership ID number
• Your date of birth
• Your current address
• Your phone number
• Your email address
• A clear statement that you wish to cancel your membership
• The reason for cancellation (if applicable, to support a waiver of fees)
• Your signature
• The date

Be polite and professional in your tone. Clearly state your desire to cancel and any supporting documentation you are including.

FAQs: Your Planet Fitness Cancellation Questions Answered

Let’s tackle some common questions to further clarify the Planet Fitness cancellation process.

1. Can I cancel my Planet Fitness membership online?

Generally, no. Planet Fitness typically requires cancellations to be made in writing, either in person or via certified mail. Check with your specific club to see if they make any exceptions.

2. How long does it take to cancel my Planet Fitness membership?

The cancellation process can take a few weeks to finalize. After submitting your written request, allow ample time for processing and confirmation. Follow up if you haven’t received confirmation within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 2-3 weeks).

3. What is the early termination fee for Planet Fitness?

The early termination fee varies depending on your contract, but it’s typically around $58. Refer to your original membership agreement for the exact amount.

4. What if I have already paid my annual fee? Will I get a refund if I cancel?

Unfortunately, Planet Fitness typically does not offer refunds for the annual fee, even if you cancel shortly after it’s charged.

5. Can I freeze my Planet Fitness membership instead of cancelling?

Yes, Planet Fitness allows you to freeze your membership under certain circumstances, such as medical reasons or temporary relocation. Freezing your membership suspends your monthly fees for a period of time. Contact your home club for details and eligibility requirements.

6. I moved but my Planet Fitness refuses to cancel. What can I do?

Provide proof of your new address to the gym management, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. If they still refuse, consider contacting Planet Fitness corporate headquarters or consulting with consumer protection agencies.

7. What happens if I just stop paying my Planet Fitness membership?

Simply stopping payments is not a valid way to cancel. Planet Fitness will likely send your account to collections, which can negatively impact your credit score. It’s crucial to follow the proper cancellation procedures.

8. How do I find my Planet Fitness membership ID number?

Your membership ID number is typically found on your membership card or in your online Planet Fitness account (if you have one). You can also ask a staff member at your home club to provide it.

9. Can someone else cancel my Planet Fitness membership for me?

Generally, no. Unless you have provided them with power of attorney, only the member named on the account can cancel the membership. However, as mentioned before, there is an exception in the event of a member’s death.

10. I have a Black Card membership. Can I use the other Black Card perks (tanning, massage chairs) after I submit my cancellation request?

No. Once your cancellation is processed, your membership will be terminated, and you will no longer have access to any Planet Fitness facilities or perks.

11. What if I signed up through a third party (e.g., Groupon)? Does that change the cancellation process?

The cancellation process is the same, regardless of how you initially signed up. You still need to follow Planet Fitness’s cancellation policies. However, check the terms of your Groupon or other third-party deal for any specific refund policies related to the initial purchase.

12. How do I confirm that my Planet Fitness membership has been successfully cancelled?

The best way to confirm cancellation is to request written confirmation from Planet Fitness. This could be a letter or an email. Keep this confirmation for your records to avoid any future disputes.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the cancellation process for a Planet Fitness membership requires understanding the terms of your agreement and following the proper procedures. While it can sometimes be a bit of a hassle, being informed and proactive will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Remember to document everything, send your request via certified mail, and follow up if needed. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently manage your Planet Fitness membership and move on to your next fitness adventure, stress-free.