Say Goodbye to Sneaky Fees: How to Avoid the Planet Fitness Annual Fee

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Are you tired of paying unnecessary fees at your gym, especially when you don’t even use all of its services? One fee that often catches gym-goers off guard is the annual fee charged by Planet Fitness. This fee, which ranges from $39 to $49, can come as a surprise to those who are not aware of it. But fear not, as in this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to avoid the Planet Fitness annual fee and enjoy your gym membership without any hidden charges. So whether you’re a loyal Planet Fitness member or considering signing up, keep reading to save some extra cash in the long run.

Understanding Planet Fitness Annual Fee

When signing up for a gym membership, one cost that many people overlook is the annual fee. Planet Fitness is no exception, as they charge their members an annual fee on top of their monthly membership dues. The purpose of this fee is to cover any costs associated with facility maintenance and upgrades.

At Planet Fitness, the annual fee is typically billed on or around the 1st of November each year. This date may vary depending on when you sign up for your membership. For example, if you sign up in December, your annual fee will not be due until the following December.

The amount of the annual fee varies between locations, but it typically ranges from $39 to $49. This may seem like a significant amount, but it breaks down to less than $5 per month. However, if you are someone who struggles with budgeting or prefers to avoid surprise charges, there are ways to avoid or minimize this annual fee.

Joining Planet Fitness During Promotions

One method to avoid paying the Planet Fitness annual fee is by keeping an eye out for promotions when signing up for a membership. Planet Fitness often runs promotions where they waive the enrollment and/or annual fees for new members. This can save you money upfront and eliminate the need to worry about the annual fee until your second year of membership.

You can check their website or inquire at your local club about any current promotions before signing up. It’s also worth mentioning that Planet Fitness has a Black Card membership option that comes with additional perks such as unlimited guest privileges and access to all locations nationwide. If you plan on utilizing these perks often, paying the extra cost for a Black Card membership may be worth it in the long run since it includes a waived annual fee.

Negotiating with Planet Fitness

Another method to potentially avoid or reduce paying the annual fee is by negotiating with Planet Fitness. While there is no guarantee that this will work, it is worth a try. You can contact customer service or speak with a manager at your local club and politely explain your situation. For example, if you are on a tight budget and the annual fee would cause financial strain, they may be able to offer you a one-time waiver or discount.

It’s essential to keep in mind that Planet Fitness is a franchise, so each location may have different policies and flexibility. It may be beneficial to reach out to multiple locations if one is not able to accommodate your request.

Timing Your Cancellation

One cost-efficient way of avoiding the Planet Fitness annual fee is by timing your cancellation correctly. As mentioned earlier, the annual fee is typically billed in November, so if you plan on canceling your membership, it’s best to do it before then. However, make sure to check the specific terms and conditions of your membership agreement as some require a 30-day notice before cancellation.

If you decide to cancel after November but before the next annual fee is due, you will still be responsible for paying that year’s fee. Therefore, it’s essential to calculate when the best time would be for you personally to cancel while also avoiding additional fees.

Switching to a No Annual Fee Credit Card

For those who have been paying their Planet Fitness annual fee with a credit card that charges an annual fee itself, switching to a no-annual-fee credit card would help avoid double charges. Many credit cards offer rewards and perks but come with an annual fee. If you’re not utilizing these benefits often or are only using the card for this specific charge, it may be worth switching to another card without an annual fee.

Conclusion

Paying attention to promotions, negotiating with Planet Fitness, timing your cancellation strategically, and switching to a no-annual-fee credit card are all ways to potentially avoid or minimize paying the Planet Fitness annual fee. It’s essential to know your options and weigh the costs and benefits before committing to a membership. Remember to read and understand the terms and conditions of your membership agreement, as each location may have different policies regarding the annual fee. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service for assistance.

Understanding the Planet Fitness Annual Fee

Planet Fitness is known for its affordable gym memberships, with many locations offering memberships for as low as $10 a month. However, one expense that may come as a surprise to some members is the annual fee. So, what exactly is this fee and how can you avoid it?

The Planet Fitness annual fee is a once-a-year charge that all members are required to pay. The purpose of this fee is to cover the costs of club maintenance and equipment upgrades. This ensures that the gym stays in top-notch shape for all its members.

When Is the Annual Fee Charged?

The exact date of when your annual fee will be charged depends on when you signed up for your membership. For most members, this fee is automatically charged on the first day of their second month of membership. For example, if you signed up on May 15th, your annual fee will be charged on July 1st.

It’s important to note that this date could differ slightly depending on your specific club location. To avoid any surprises, be sure to check with your local Planet Fitness or refer to your membership agreement for the exact date of your annual fee charge.

How Much Is the Annual Fee?

The annual fee at Planet Fitness can vary between $29-$39 per year. As previously mentioned, this cost helps cover club maintenance and equipment updates. This cost may seem like an unexpected expense for some members, but it’s relatively low compared to other gyms in the industry.

In addition, some gyms may offer promotions or discounts on the annual fee for new or existing members. Keep an eye out for these deals to potentially save some money on this cost.

Avoiding the Annual Fee Altogether

While it may seem like an extra expense that can’t be avoided, there are a few ways to waive the annual fee at Planet Fitness.

One way is to sign up for the Black Card membership. This membership includes perks such as unlimited guest privileges, tanning, massage chairs, and more. But most importantly, it includes no annual fee. Keep in mind that this membership does come at a higher cost per month compared to the basic membership.

Another way to avoid the annual fee is by joining during a promotion period where the fee is being waived. This may happen during special holidays or events throughout the year. Be sure to keep an eye out for any promotions from your local Planet Fitness or on their website.

Finally, if you’re not interested in upgrading your membership or joining during a promotion, you can always contact your local club and inquire about a possible waiver of the annual fee. While this isn’t guaranteed, some clubs may be willing to work with you and waive the fee if you have valid reasons.

Cancelling Your Membership Before Annual Fee Charge

If all else fails and you still don’t want to pay the annual fee, you do have the option of cancelling your membership before it is charged.

To cancel your Planet Fitness membership without paying the annual fee, you must provide written notice of cancellation at least 30 days before your next billing date. This can be done either in person at your local club or by sending a certified letter with proof of delivery.

It’s important to note that some clubs may require an additional 30 day notice for cancellation on top of the initial 30 days. Make sure to check with your specific location for their cancellation policy.

The Importance of Reading Your Membership Agreement

One way to avoid any surprises regarding fees with Planet Fitness (or any gym) is by thoroughly reading through your membership agreement before signing up.

The membership agreement will outline all costs associated with being a member, including the annual fee and any potential promotional deals. This will give you a clear understanding of what you are agreeing to and help avoid any confusion or misunderstandings in the future.

While the Planet Fitness annual fee may seem like an added expense, it is necessary for the maintenance and improvements of the gym. However, with some planning and knowledge, there are ways to potentially avoid this fee altogether. Be sure to read through your membership agreement, keep an eye out for promotions, and consider upgrading your membership to avoid this annual cost. And if all else fails, remember that you do have the option to cancel before the fee is charged. Stay informed and enjoy your affordable Planet Fitness membership with no unexpected costs!

1. How do I avoid paying the Planet Fitness annual fee?

Answer: You can avoid paying the Planet Fitness annual fee by cancelling your membership before it renews for another year.

2. Can I negotiate with Planet Fitness to waive the annual fee?

Answer: No, Planet Fitness does not offer any negotiation or waiver options for the annual fee.

3. What should I do if I forget to cancel my membership before the annual fee is charged?

Answer: You can contact Planet Fitness customer service and explain your situation. They may be able to offer a one-time courtesy and waive the fee for you.

4. Is there a specific time period in which I can cancel my membership to avoid the annual fee?

Answer: Yes, you must cancel your membership at least 30 days before your renewal date in order to avoid being charged the annual fee for the upcoming year.

5. Can I put my membership on hold instead of cancelling to avoid the annual fee?

Answer: No, putting your membership on hold does not exempt you from being charged the annual fee when it is due. You must cancel your membership if you wish to avoid this charge.

6. Are there any exceptions for certain circumstances that would allow me to avoid paying the Planet Fitness annual fee?

Answer: No, Planet Fitness has a strict policy and all members are required to pay the annual fee unless they cancel their membership before it renews for another year.

In conclusion, avoiding the annual fee at Planet Fitness requires awareness and proactive action by members. It is important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of your membership agreement to avoid any surprises. Utilizing strategies such as signing up during promotional periods, selecting the right membership plan, and taking advantage of cancellation policies can help reduce or eliminate the annual fee. Additionally, staying informed about any changes in policies or fees can also prevent unexpected charges. Ultimately, prioritizing physical health and utilizing all of the resources available at Planet Fitness will make the annual fee a worthwhile investment for a healthier lifestyle. It is important to remember that even with an annual fee, Planet Fitness provides affordable access to equipment, classes, and a supportive community for individuals looking to improve their overall well-being.

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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.