05/03/13…New year’s resolution slipped? Want to cancel that gym subscription?

ADVICE from the Thame CAB (Citizens Advice Bureau): Gyms often play on people’s new year resolve to be more active and offer enticing deals, but you can find yourself tied into a long-term contract without realising unless you study the small print very carefully before signing up for anything.

Your contract will normally have details about when and how you can cancel and what the charges will be. Usually you will still have to pay fees for the lifetime of the contract (or some sort of cancellation fee) if you decide to cancel early even if your circumstances have changed.

If you do decide to cancel your gym membership make sure you do it in writing and keep a copy of the letter. It may also be sensible to send the letter recorded delivery so you have proof of when you sent it and can find out whether the gym has received it or not.

There are some instances when you can cancel a gym contract early without a penalty or even get a refund. This could apply if the contract terms specifically allow for you to cancel in certain circumstances, such as at the end of an introductory rate. You can also cancel early without a penalty or charge if your contract terms are deemed to be unfair. Your contract could be seen as unfair if it is automatically renewed without your permission or the terms are unclear. It is also easier to cancel a gym contract without having to pay a penalty or even get a refund if it sets a minimum contract term that is more than one year.

Your nearest CAB office is in Market Square Thame
Adviceline: 08444 111 444 or 03 00 33 00 650 (Mobile)