If you’re considering joining Planet Fitness or are already a member, you might be wondering: “Why does Planet Fitness need my checking account details?”
It’s a common question, especially in an age where most transactions are done with credit cards or digital wallets. In this article, we’ll break down exactly why Planet Fitness requires a checking account, what it means for your membership, and how to handle it securely.
🏋️ Why Planet Fitness Requires a Checking Account
Here are the key reasons why Planet Fitness asks for your checking account and routing number:
1. Recurring Monthly Billing
Planet Fitness operates on a membership model where payments are made monthly. A checking account ensures:
- Consistent payment processing
- Fewer failed transactions
- Reduced credit card fees for the gym
2. Avoiding Credit Card Fees
Credit card companies charge processing fees (usually 2-4%) on every transaction. By collecting payment via ACH (Automated Clearing House) from a checking account, Planet Fitness saves money and keeps membership fees low.
✅ Fun Fact: The standard membership at Planet Fitness is around $10/month. Keeping costs low is part of their appeal—and skipping credit card fees helps with that.
3. Better Control Over Cancellations and Disputes
Credit cards offer quick chargeback options to customers, which can result in:
- Unexpected revenue loss for the gym
- Complicated disputes
By using a checking account, Planet Fitness can reduce the number of sudden cancellations and better manage their billing processes.
🔐 Is It Safe to Provide Your Checking Account?
Yes—as long as you’re enrolling directly with Planet Fitness through their official website or in-person at the gym. Here’s why:
- Planet Fitness uses secure, encrypted payment systems
- Your account number is stored with payment processors, not at the gym itself
- Membership agreements detail how billing works and when you’ll be charged
⚠️ Warning: Avoid sharing your checking details over the phone or with third parties claiming to represent Planet Fitness.
💡 Alternatives to Using a Checking Account
While Planet Fitness prefers checking accounts, some locations may accept other options:
| Payment Method | Accepted? | Notes |
| Credit Card | Sometimes | May be allowed for startup fees or yearly dues |
| Debit Card | Rarely | Depends on the gym location |
| Cash | No | Not accepted for monthly payments |
| Prepaid Card | Unlikely | May not be accepted for monthly dues |
To know for sure, ask your local Planet Fitness franchise, as policies can vary.
🔄 What If You Want to Cancel?
One of the concerns people have with using a checking account is difficulty in cancellation. Here’s how to protect yourself:
1. Request Written Confirmation of Cancellation
Always get proof that your cancellation has been processed. Email or paper works best.
2. Cancel in Person or via Certified Mail
Planet Fitness usually requires cancellations in person or by certified mail. Be sure to follow their official cancellation policy.
3. Monitor Your Bank Account
Even after cancellation, monitor your account for unexpected charges. If any occur:
- Contact Planet Fitness customer service
- Dispute the charge with your bank if necessary
💬 Common Complaints & Concerns
Here are some frequent concerns related to Planet Fitness and checking accounts:
❌ “They charged me after I canceled!”
This happens when:
- You didn’t cancel properly (in person or by certified mail)
- Cancellation was processed too late in the billing cycle
❌ “I don’t want to give out my bank info!”
Totally understandable. Ask your local branch if they accept credit or debit cards. If not, consider using a secondary checking account with limited funds for peace of mind.
✅ Pros & Cons of Using a Checking Account for Planet Fitness
| Pros | Cons |
| Lower chance of declined payments | Harder to cancel via bank alone |
| No credit card processing fees | Less flexibility than using credit card |
| Predictable monthly billing | Some users fear bank overdraft charges |
| Helps gym keep membership costs low | Requires sharing sensitive account info |
🔍 How to Safely Set Up Payment
When signing up for Planet Fitness:
- Use their official website or in-person desk
- Verify you’re on a secure page (https:// with padlock icon)
- Read the membership agreement carefully
- Ask for a copy of the billing terms, including:
- Monthly charge date
- Annual fee date
- Cancellation deadline
- Monthly charge date
📚 FAQs About Planet Fitness and Checking Accounts
1. Why doesn’t Planet Fitness accept credit cards for monthly payments?
To avoid transaction fees and ensure consistent payments, they use checking account billing via ACH.
2. Can I use a savings account instead?
No, Planet Fitness typically requires a checking account because it supports ACH withdrawals better.
3. What if I don’t have a checking account?
Ask if your location accepts prepaid debit cards or consider opening a basic checking account just for this purpose.
4. Is it legal for them to require checking account info?
Yes, businesses can set their own billing policies as long as they are clearly disclosed to you.
5. Can I cancel through my bank to stop payments?
You can block payments, but this does not cancel your membership—you may still owe fees.
6. Do all gyms require a checking account?
No. Some gyms allow credit card billing or even cash for shorter-term memberships.
7. Will I get a refund if I cancel but already paid?
Refunds are rare unless Planet Fitness makes a billing error. Always check your agreement for refund terms.
8. What is the annual fee and when is it charged?
Many Planet Fitness memberships include an annual fee of $39, usually charged 60–90 days after joining.
🏁 Final Thoughts
While it may feel outdated or inconvenient, the requirement of a checking account at Planet Fitness is rooted in cost-saving and operational efficiency. It allows the gym to offer some of the most affordable fitness memberships in the industry.
If you’re not comfortable sharing your checking account, you can:
- Ask for alternate payment methods
- Open a secondary account for added security
- Choose a gym with more flexible billing options
Understanding how and why Planet Fitness handles billing this way helps you make an informed decision—and avoid surprises down the road.