Losing a loved one is never easy, and the administrative tasks that follow can feel overwhelming. If your family member had a Planet Fitness membership, you may be wondering, “How do I cancel a deceased relative’s gym account without hassle or additional charges?”
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to cancel a deceased person’s Planet Fitness membership.
Can You Cancel a Deceased Person’s Planet Fitness Membership?
Yes. Planet Fitness allows family members or estate representatives to cancel a deceased person’s membership. However, the method requires proper documentation and contacting the home club where the membership originated. you can also check our complete guide on how to cancel your planet fitness membership.
What You’ll Need:
- A copy of the death certificate
- Proof of your relationship or authority (e.g., executor of estate, power of attorney, or next of kin)
- The deceased’s full name, date of birth, and membership ID (if available)
Step-by-Step Guide: Canceling Planet Fitness for a Deceased Member
Step 1: Identify the Home Club
Every Planet Fitness membership is tied to a specific location. Locate:
- The club your loved one originally signed up at
- Contact info for that club (phone/email/address)
If you’re unsure of the club, check old emails or bank statements for location details.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Prepare to present the following:
- Certified copy of the death certificate
- Your ID and proof of relationship or legal authority
- The deceased’s member ID or last 4 digits of the card on file (if possible)
Step 3: Visit or Contact the Home Club
- Call or visit the location during staffed hours
- Ask to speak with a manager or billing representative
- Politely explain that you’re canceling on behalf of a deceased family member
- Provide documentation via fax, email, or in person
Step 4: Request a Confirmation
- Always ask for written confirmation that the membership was canceled
- Keep a record of the communication
- Ask if there are any remaining charges or account holds
Alternative Method: Cancel via Certified Mail
If you cannot visit the club:
- Write a formal cancellation letter
- Include your contact details, the deceased’s full name, and date of passing
- Attach a copy of the death certificate
- Send it via certified mail with return receipt to the home club
This method provides a paper trail for your records and adds legal proof of delivery.
Common Challenges (And Solutions)
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Don’t know the club location | Check email or call corporate support |
| Lack of membership ID | Provide full name, DOB, and address instead |
| No response from club | Follow up in person or escalate to corporate |
| Rejected documents | Ensure copies are certified and legible |
What If You’re Billed After the Member’s Death?
If charges continue:
- Dispute the charge with your bank or credit card company
- Provide documentation showing date of death and cancellation request
- Most banks offer chargeback options within 60–90 days
Can You Cancel Online or by Phone?
Not completely. Planet Fitness does not allow full cancellations via app or phone. However:
- You can initiate the process over the phone
- Final documentation must be submitted in person or by mail
Pro Tips for a Smooth Cancellation
- Get everything in writing: receipts, emails, letters
- Use certified mail to provide legal proof
- Be polite but persistent—staff may be unaware of this process
- If the local club is unhelpful, contact Planet Fitness corporate headquarters
FAQs: Canceling a Deceased Family Member’s Membership
1. Can I cancel a deceased person’s Planet Fitness membership online?
No. You must visit the home club or send a certified cancellation letter with documentation.
2. Is a death certificate required?
Yes. A certified copy of the death certificate is necessary.
3. Can I cancel without being a relative?
Only if you have legal authority (e.g., executor of the estate).
4. Can the club refuse to cancel?
They may require proper documents, but cannot legally keep billing a deceased person.
5. How fast is the cancellation processed?
Usually within 3–7 business days after receiving documentation.
6. Can I request a refund for charges after death?
Yes, especially if proof of death and late billing is provided promptly.
7. What if the account was prepaid?
Refunds are rare, but you can request a partial refund if unused months remain.
8. Is there a cancellation fee?
No. Cancellation due to death is not subject to early termination or buyout fees.
9. Can Planet Fitness cancel without documents?
No. Documentation is required to prevent fraud.
10. What if I live in another state?
Send your documents by certified mail or contact the club manager.
11. Do I need a lawyer to cancel?
No, but legal authority (executor or power of attorney) may be required in complex cases.
12. How do I contact corporate?
Visit planetfitness.com and use their contact form or call customer support.
13. Can I email the documents?
Some clubs accept email attachments, but always call to confirm.
14. Will billing stop immediately?
It stops after documentation is processed—usually within a week.
15. Can I use the same cancellation letter template?
Yes. Just adjust names and dates to fit your situation.
Final Thoughts
Canceling a deceased family member’s Planet Fitness membership can be a sensitive but necessary task. By gathering the right documentation and contacting the correct club, you can close the account respectfully and without additional charges.
Always follow up, keep receipts, and don’t hesitate to escalate if needed. And if you’re looking for a quick way to generate a cancellation letter, try our free PDF cancellation tool.