The most direct way to avoid the annual fee at Planet Fitness is to cancel your membership before the annual fee is charged. It's crucial to understand the specific deadlines and potential implications of cancellation to ensure you don't incur the fee.
Understanding the Annual Fee and Cancellation Policy
Planet Fitness typically charges an annual fee to all members, which helps maintain club facilities and enhance the member experience. To successfully avoid this charge, timely action is required.
Key Steps to Avoid the Annual Fee:
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Cancel Before the Deadline:
- To stop the billing of the annual fee, your membership cancellation must be completed by the 25th of the month prior to your annual fee's billing date. For instance, if your annual fee is due in July, you must cancel by June 25th.
- Missing this deadline means you will likely be charged the annual fee.
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Be Aware of Buyout Fees:
- If your membership has a minimum term (e.g., a 12-month contract) and you cancel before the end of that contract term, a buyout fee of $58 may be required. This fee is separate from the annual fee but is an important consideration for early termination.
- If you're past your minimum term, or if your membership does not have one, you typically won't incur this buyout fee upon cancellation.
How to Cancel Your Planet Fitness Membership
Planet Fitness requires specific procedures for cancellation, which generally cannot be done over the phone or online for most memberships.
- In-Person Cancellation: The most common and recommended method is to visit your home club (the club where you originally signed up) in person. You will typically fill out a cancellation form. This provides immediate confirmation and allows you to address any questions directly.
- Certified Mail: Alternatively, you can send a certified letter to your home club requesting cancellation. This method provides a paper trail and proof of delivery, which can be useful for dispute resolution. Be sure to include your membership details and allow ample time for delivery and processing before the 25th of the month.
Summary of Key Information:
| Action | Deadline / Requirement | Potential Cost / Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cancel Membership | By the 25th of the month prior to annual fee date | Avoids annual fee |
| Cancel Term Membership Early | Prior to end of contract term | Requires a $58 buyout fee |
| Method of Cancellation | In-person at home club OR certified mail to home club | Ensures proper processing and confirmation |
For precise details regarding your specific membership agreement and annual fee date, it's always best to check your contract or contact Planet Fitness directly. You can find more information on their official website, such as their customer service or membership FAQs.
