Planet Fitness cancellation policy explained
Planet Fitness requires either an in-person visit to your home club or a certified mail letter. Unlike most modern subscription services, there is no online cancellation option - this is an intentional retention strategy. Their membership agreement specifies the two acceptable cancellation methods, which is why phone cancellations and emails are not accepted.
The billing cycle runs monthly, with dues typically charged on the 17th of each month. Annual fees (usually $39–49) are charged once a year based on your sign-up date. Cancellations take effect at the end of the current billing period - so if your dues just ran on the 17th and you cancel on the 18th, you're paid through the following month.
What to do if Planet Fitness charges you after cancellation
This happens more often than it should. Here's the escalation path:
- Step 1: Contact the club directly (not the 800 number) with your cancellation confirmation or certified mail tracking number.
- Step 2: If they refuse to refund the charge, dispute it with your bank or credit card issuer under the Fair Credit Billing Act.
- Step 3: File a complaint with your state Attorney General's consumer protection office - Planet Fitness cancellation complaints are common and states take them seriously.
- Step 4: Leave a review noting the billing issue on Google Maps for that specific club location - club managers respond quickly to public reviews that affect their ratings.
Can Planet Fitness charge an annual fee after cancellation?
If your annual fee falls within your current billing period (before your cancellation takes effect), you will owe it. If your cancellation takes effect before the annual fee date, you should not be charged. Ask the staff member at the time of cancellation exactly when your cancellation takes effect and when your next annual fee is due.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I cancel Planet Fitness online?
- No. Planet Fitness does not offer online cancellation. You must cancel in person at your home club or send a letter via certified mail. This policy has been consistent for years.
- Can I cancel over the phone?
- No. Planet Fitness does not accept phone cancellations. Staff will tell you that you must come in person or send a certified letter.
- What if my Planet Fitness location is closed or far away?
- If your home club has permanently closed, Planet Fitness must allow you to cancel without visiting another location. Contact Planet Fitness support and reference the club closure. If the location has moved or you've relocated, certified mail is the best option.
- Do I need to return my key fob to cancel?
- Generally no - key fobs are typically not required to be returned for cancellation. Confirm with your specific club, but this is not a standard requirement.
- How long does a Planet Fitness cancellation take?
- In-person cancellation is immediate, but your membership continues until the end of your current billing period. For certified mail, the cancellation takes effect once the letter is received and processed - allow 5–10 business days after confirmed delivery.