Stuck Paying for a Gym Membership? Try This Professional Cancellation Tactic

Signing up for a gym takes just a few minutes, but when it comes to canceling, it can take weeks or even months. Depending on the gym, you may want to visit in person or mail a certified letter to cancel your membership.

Here’s a professional script you can use to get out without further charges, and what to do if the gym continues billing you.

Cancellation Script

Look up the contact number for the gym. Call and say:

"Hi, my name is [X]. I’d like to cancel my membership effective [date] due to [reason].” If they give you a discount to keep your membership, say, "I appreciate that, but I've already decided to cancel.”

If they say there’s a cancellation fee, you can try this:

"My contract states cancellation is free under [cite the specific section in the contract you signed]. I'd like my decision respected. Can you confirm in writing that my membership is canceled as of [date] with no further charges?"

Make sure you document every step, including the date, time, location and name of the employee you spoke with. If they ask you to mail a certified letter instead, this script can help you draft one in less than five minutes:

RE: Gym Membership Cancellation 

Dear [name of the gym]

I’m writing to request my gym membership cancellation effective [date]. This date meets the [X days notice] as described in the membership agreement I initially signed.

I have enjoyed the facility and appreciate the service over the past [x] months. However, I am moving to a new city for work and will need to find a gym closer to my new home. Thanks for your understanding.

Please send me written confirmation that my membership has been officially canceled after processing is complete. If you need any additional information, feel free to contact me. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Signature

Your name

The Federal Trade Commission recommends keeping copies of your cancellation request. That documentation will make it much easier to dispute future charges if the gym continues charging you after you canceled.

Gym Still Won't Cancel

If the gym continues billing you, contact your credit card company or bank to dispute unauthorized charges. You can also file a complaint with consumer protection agencies if you believe the business has unfair cancellation practices.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.