Will Planet Fitness Ruin Your Credit? The Truth About Collections and Gym Memberships

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Have you ever signed up for a gym membership, only to regret it later? Maybe the gym was too far from your house, or perhaps you just didn’t have the time or motivation to go regularly. Now, you may be wondering if you can simply cancel your membership with Planet Fitness and move on. But there’s one concern lingering in your mind – will Planet Fitness send you to collections if you try to cancel? This is a question that many people have asked, and we’re here to provide an answer. In this article, we’ll dive into the policies of Planet Fitness and explore whether they have a reputation for sending their former members to collections. So before you make any decisions about your membership, read on to find out the truth behind this common concern.

The Collections Process at Planet Fitness

When you sign up for a gym membership, you may not think about the possibility of being sent to collections. However, it’s important to understand the collections process at any gym, including popular chain Planet Fitness. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how Planet Fitness handles collections and what you can expect if you fall behind on your membership payments.

How Does Planet Fitness Determine When You Are Sent to Collections?

Planet Fitness has several procedures in place to ensure that members are up-to-date on their payments. First and foremost, they require members to sign a contract when they join the gym. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of membership, including the payment schedule and consequences for missed payments.

Planet Fitness also requires members to provide a valid credit or debit card for automatic monthly payments. This ensures that payments are received on time without any lapse in coverage.

If a member misses a payment, Planet Fitness will attempt to contact them through email or telephone to inform them of the missed payment and remind them to update their payment information. If these attempts are unsuccessful, the member may receive a letter from a third-party collections agency informing them that their account has been sent to collections.

What Happens When Your Account is Sent to Collections?

Being sent to collections means that your unpaid balance has been handed over to an outside company for collection efforts. In this case, it means that Planet Fitness is no longer responsible for collecting your payments and has instead hired a third-party agency to do so on their behalf.

Once your account is in collections, the agency will likely contact you through phone calls, letters, or emails demanding payment. They may also add additional fees and interest charges onto your balance.

It’s important to note that being sent to collections can have a negative impact on your credit score. The agency may also report your unpaid balance to the credit bureaus, which can make it difficult for you to obtain credit in the future.

Can You Avoid Being Sent to Collections?

The best way to avoid being sent to collections is to ensure that your membership payments are always up-to-date. Make sure that you have a valid payment method on file and that there are sufficient funds in your account for automatic payments.

If for some reason you are unable to make a payment, it’s important to communicate with Planet Fitness and let them know. They may be able to work out a payment plan or offer temporary membership freezes. This can prevent your account from being sent to collections.

If you do find yourself in collections, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. Contact the collections agency and work out a plan for paying off your balance. Once the balance is paid in full, it will no longer have a negative impact on your credit score.

What Are Your Rights When Dealing With Collections Agencies?

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), collections agencies are not allowed to engage in harassment or abuse when trying to collect a debt. This includes using threats, using profane or obscene language, and calling at unreasonable hours.

You also have the right to request verification of the debt from the collections agency. If they cannot provide proof that you owe the money, you have no legal obligation to pay.

It’s important to know your rights when dealing with collections agencies and report any violations of the FDCPA.

What Happens if You Ignore Collections Notices from Planet Fitness?

Ignoring collections notices from either Planet Fitness or their third-party agency will not make the issue go away. In fact, it can make things worse by adding more fees and interest onto your unpaid balance.

If you continue to ignore collection efforts, the agency may take legal action against you. This could result in a lawsuit, garnishment of wages, or seizure of assets.

Ignoring the issue will also have a negative impact on your credit score, making it difficult for you to obtain credit in the future.

While no one wants to be sent to collections, it’s important to understand how Planet Fitness handles this process. Remember to keep your membership payments up-to-date and communicate with Planet Fitness if you are unable to make a payment. If you do find yourself in collections, address the issue as soon as possible to avoid any further consequences. And always know your rights when dealing with collections agencies.

Understanding Collections and Planet Fitness

When signing up for a gym membership, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions that come with it. One aspect that often causes confusion is the possibility of being sent to collections by the gym. This is especially true for popular gyms like Planet Fitness. In this article, we’ll explore what collections are, how they work, and if Planet Fitness has a history of sending their members to collections.

Collections refer to the process of a company or organization attempting to collect unpaid debts or fees from their customers. Typically, when a customer fails to make payments on time, the company will send them reminders and late notices before resorting to collections. If these attempts are unsuccessful, the company may hire a third-party collections agency or sell the debt to another company in order to recoup their losses.

Now you may be wondering – can Planet Fitness legally send me to collections? The short answer is yes. As with any other business transaction, once you agree to their membership contract, you are legally bound to pay any fees or charges that you incur. This includes monthly membership fees as well as any additional fees for extra services or late payments.

Collections Process at Planet Fitness

Now let’s take a closer look at how collections works at Planet Fitness. When you sign up for a membership, you will be required to provide your credit card information or set up automatic payments through your bank account. This information will be used to automatically charge your account each month for your membership fees.

In the event that there are insufficient funds in your account or your credit card is declined, Planet Fitness will typically attempt to contact you via phone or email and inform you of the issue. They may also charge an additional fee for returned payments.

If these attempts are unsuccessful and your payment remains outstanding for an extended period of time (usually 60-90 days), Planet Fitness may then turn your account over to a collections agency or sell your debt to a third-party company. This agency or company will then be responsible for attempting to collect the unpaid fees from you.

Planet Fitness and Collections – What Members Need to Know

As previously mentioned, Planet Fitness does have the right to send members to collections if they fail to make timely payments on their membership fees. However, it’s important for members to understand that this is typically viewed as a last resort for the gym. In fact, according to Planet Fitness’ website, they state that “if you have a balance due on your account at [their] locations, PLEASE reach out so we can help” before recommending other payment options.

This suggests that Planet Fitness would rather work with their members to come up with a solution than immediately sending them to collections. Additionally, they also offer options like freezing your membership for medical reasons or pausing it temporarily (for an added fee) if you are unable to use their facilities for an extended period of time.

It’s also worth noting that Planet Fitness prides itself on being a “judgment-free zone” and their business model heavily relies on acquiring and retaining members. As such, it’s not in their best interest to constantly send members to collections and potentially tarnish their reputation.

How to Avoid Being Sent to Collections by Planet Fitness

The easiest way to avoid being sent to collections by Planet Fitness is simply by making timely payments. This means ensuring you have enough funds in your account when payments are due and keeping track of any potential changes in fees or payment methods.

If you find yourself struggling with finances or have extenuating circumstances preventing you from paying your membership fees, the best course of action would be to reach out directly to Planet Fitness and explain your situation. They may be willing to work out a payment plan or alternative solution with you, rather than pursuing collections.

Additionally, it’s important to read and understand your membership contract before signing up. This will outline the fees and charges you are responsible for and can help you avoid any surprises down the line.

Conclusion

In conclusion, yes, Planet Fitness does have the right to send members to collections if they do not make timely payments on their membership fees. However, it’s not their preferred method of resolving unpaid balances and they may be willing to work with members to find a solution before resorting to collections.

As a member of Planet Fitness (or any gym for that matter), it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of your membership and make sure to keep up with payments in order to avoid being sent to collections. And if you do run into financial difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to Planet Fitness for assistance.

1. Will not paying my Planet Fitness membership fees result in being sent to collections?

It is possible for Planet Fitness to send you to collections if you do not pay your membership fees, as stated in the membership agreement. It is important to communicate with the gym and make arrangements for payment to avoid this situation.

2. How long do I have to pay my outstanding balance before Planet Fitness sends me to collections?

The specific timeframe for when Planet Fitness will send your account to collections may vary, but it is typically after a certain period of time of missed payments. It is best to contact the gym directly to discuss any outstanding balances and avoid being sent to collections.

3. What happens if I am already in collections with Planet Fitness?

If your account has already been sent to collections, it is important to address it as soon as possible. You may be able to work out a payment plan with the collection agency or settle the debt for less than the original amount. Ignoring the collection attempts can negatively impact your credit score.

4. Can I still use my Planet Fitness membership if my account has been sent to collections?

If your account has been sent to collections, you will not be able to use your Planet Fitness membership until the outstanding balance is resolved. It is important to address any collections issues promptly in order regain access to the gym.

5. Will being sent to collections by Planet Fitness affect my credit score?

Yes, if your account has been sent to collections, it can have a negative impact on your credit score as it will be reported by the collection agency and will appear on your credit report. It is best to communicate with Planet Fitness and resolve any outstanding balances before it reaches this point.

6. Can I dispute a debt that has been sent from Planet Fitness Collections?

Yes, you can dispute a debt that has been sent from Planet Fitness Collections. You have the right to request validation of the debt and to dispute any inaccuracies in the reported amount. It is important to do so in writing and within a timely manner to avoid any further negative impacts on your credit score.

In conclusion, it is important for individuals to carefully consider the terms and conditions before signing up for any gym membership, including Planet Fitness. While Planet Fitness does have a reputation for being a low-cost and judgement-free gym, they also have specific policies in place regarding missed payments and membership cancellations. Failure to adhere to these policies can result in the individual being sent to collections.

It is clear that the main priority of Planet Fitness is to provide affordable fitness options for individuals of all backgrounds. However, this does not mean that they are exempt from following proper financial procedures and holding members accountable for their actions or lack thereof.

Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to fully understand their financial obligations when signing up for a Planet Fitness membership. This includes being aware of cancellation policies, potential fees associated with missed payments, and the potential consequences of not fulfilling these obligations.

Moreover, it is recommended that individuals carefully review their contracts and ask questions before signing anything. Keeping track of payment due dates and actively communicating with Planet Fitness can also help prevent any issues with billing or collections.

Ultimately, while Planet Fitness may send individuals to collections in cases of non-payment or breach of contract, this should not deter anyone from joining. By understanding and following the terms and conditions laid out by Planet Fitness, individuals can

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.