If you’re a Planet Fitness member or thinking of joining, you may have come across something called the Planet Fitness annual fee. This one-time yearly charge often surprises new members—especially when it hits their bank account unexpectedly.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Planet Fitness annual fee, including when it’s charged, how to avoid it, refund possibilities, and smart strategies for managing or bypassing it.
What Is the Planet Fitness Annual Fee?
The Planet Fitness annual fee is a once-a-year charge of $39 that covers routine maintenance, equipment upgrades, and club operations.
Key Facts:
- Charged once per year, regardless of membership type
- Applies to both Black Card and Classic memberships
- Not included in the monthly membership dues
- Non-refundable in most cases once processed
When Is the Annual Fee Charged?
It depends on when you joined and your specific location.
General Billing Schedule:
| Membership Sign-Up Month | Annual Fee Charged |
|---|---|
| January | April 1st |
| February | May 1st |
| March | June 1st |
| … | … |
| December | March 1st (following year) |
Exact dates may vary slightly depending on your home club. Always confirm with your local Planet Fitness location.
How Will I Know When the Annual Fee Is Coming?
You’ll usually be notified by:
- A note in your membership agreement
- An email reminder (if opted-in)
- Your account dashboard in the Planet Fitness app or online portal
Always check your agreement or contact your club for your specific billing schedule.
How to Avoid the Planet Fitness Annual Fee
There are only a few legitimate ways to avoid this fee, and they require careful timing.
1. Cancel Membership Before the Fee Date
You must cancel at least 7 days before the scheduled fee date to avoid the charge.
2. Sign Up With a Promotion That Waives It
Occasionally, Planet Fitness offers promotions for:
- New members
- Corporate partnerships
- Special periods like New Year or Black Friday
3. Freeze Your Membership (In Some Cases)
Some clubs may waive the annual fee if your account is on hold/freeze. Always check with your home club manager.
Annual Fee vs. Monthly Dues
| Charge Type | Amount | Frequency | Refundable? |
| Monthly Dues | $10–$24.99 | Every Month | No (except in special cases) |
| Annual Fee | $39 | Once a Year | No (usually non-refundable) |
Can You Get a Refund for the Annual Fee?
In most cases, no. However, you might be eligible if:
- The fee was charged in error (after cancellation, for example)
- You canceled with proof before the billing date
- Your club manager approves a refund as a goodwill gesture
Always ask politely. Refunds are rare but not impossible with proper documentation.
What Happens If You Miss the Fee?
Planet Fitness may:
- Retry billing your account later
- Add a late charge (depending on location)
- Freeze your account until payment is made
What About the $1 Down and No Annual Fee Promos?
From time to time, Planet Fitness runs limited-time promos such as:
- $1 down and $10/month with no commitment
- Waived annual fee for first-time signups
Read the fine print. These promos are usually for a limited time and apply to new members only.
Tips to Manage or Reduce the Impact of the Annual Fee
- Mark your billing date on your calendar
- Set up email reminders 30 days ahead
- Ask about promotions before joining
- Consider switching to a location that waives the fee (rare)
- If needed, cancel early and rejoin later to reset the billing cycle
Is the Annual Fee Worth It?
The $39 annual fee goes toward:
- Equipment upgrades
- Maintenance and sanitation
- Facility improvements
For most members, it’s worth it considering:
- Low monthly cost compared to other gyms
- Unlimited access and amenities
- Large number of nationwide locations
Sample Cancellation Timeline to Avoid the Annual Fee
| Annual Fee Date | Cancel By (Latest) |
| April 1 | March 24 |
| May 1 | April 24 |
| June 1 | May 25 |
If you cancel after this date, you’ll likely still be charged.
FAQs: Planet Fitness Annual Fee
1. What is the Planet Fitness annual fee for?
It covers facility maintenance, equipment upgrades, and general improvements.
2. Can I get out of paying the annual fee?
Yes, by canceling at least 7 days before the fee is billed.
3. Is the annual fee charged to all members?
Yes, it applies to both Classic and Black Card memberships.
4. Do Black Card members pay a different fee?
No, both plans pay the same $39 annual fee.
5. Can I freeze my membership to avoid the fee?
Sometimes—depends on club policy.
6. What happens if I cancel after the annual fee is charged?
You won’t get a refund unless the club agrees to one.
7. Is the annual fee charged on the join date?
No, it’s billed separately after a few months of membership.
8. How do I know when the annual fee is due?
Check your membership agreement or ask your home club.
9. Will I be charged again if I rejoin?
Yes, unless you join during a special promotion.
10. Does every Planet Fitness club have the same policy?
Mostly, but slight differences may exist depending on the franchise.
11. Is the annual fee tax-deductible?
No, it’s not considered a medical expense.
12. What if I didn’t agree to the annual fee?
It’s part of the contract—you agreed during signup.
13. Can I negotiate to waive the fee?
You can ask, but it’s rarely approved without a valid reason.
14. Can I switch clubs to avoid the annual fee?
Unlikely—it follows your contract, not your location.
15. Can I split the fee into monthly payments?
No, it’s billed as a lump-sum payment.
Final Thoughts
The Planet Fitness annual fee is a small but important part of your membership costs. While it’s not refundable in most cases, knowing when it’s charged and how to avoid it can save you unnecessary expenses. Be proactive, mark your billing dates, and consider your fitness plans before the charge hits your account.
Thinking of canceling to avoid the fee? Use our free Planet Fitness cancellation letter generator