Step-by-step guide with required documents, timeline, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Contact the gym or fitness center to cancel the membership. Most gyms — including national chains like Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Gold's Gym — will waive any early termination fees and cancel immediately upon receiving proof of death. Call the gym's main number or visit in person and say: "I need to cancel the membership for [name] who has passed away." They will typically ask for a copy of the death certificate.
Request written confirmation of the cancellation, including the effective date and confirmation that no further charges will be billed. Check the next 1 to 2 months of bank or credit card statements to verify that billing has stopped. If charges continue after cancellation, contact the gym and your bank to dispute the charges.
If the deceased had a personal training package with unused sessions, ask about a refund for the unused portion. Some gyms will provide a prorated refund; others will not. If the deceased had a family membership, ask whether the remaining family members can continue at the same rate under a new individual or family plan. Some gyms will honor the existing rate; others may require a new membership at current pricing.
Use our free interactive checklist to keep track of all 34 tasks across 4 phases.
Open the ChecklistImportant notice
This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Laws vary significantly by state and individual circumstances. We strongly recommend consulting a licensed estate attorney and a certified financial planner for your specific situation.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. Send us a message and we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.