You do not need a checking account to join Planet Fitness, but you do need a way to pay the monthly membership fee
Planet Fitness accepts multiple payment methods at signup and for ongoing monthly charges. A checking account is one option, but not the only one. You can use a debit card, credit card, or prepaid card instead. The gym does require a valid payment method on file to process your membership, and that method will be charged automatically each month unless you cancel.
The payment method you choose at signup becomes your default for all future charges. You can update it later through your Planet Fitness account online or by calling your local gym, but having something ready before you walk in makes the signup process faster.
Key Takeaways
- Planet Fitness accepts debit cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards in addition to checking account payments, so a bank account is not required.
- Your payment method is charged automatically each month on the date you sign up, and you can change it anytime through your online account.
- If your payment method is declined, Planet Fitness will attempt to retry the charge, but repeated failures may result in membership suspension.
- Prepaid cards and debit cards work the same way as credit cards for Planet Fitness billing, as long as they carry a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express logo.
What payment methods Planet Fitness actually accepts
At signup, Planet Fitness takes Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards. This includes debit cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards that carry one of those logos. You do not have to link a bank account directly. The gym does not accept payment through PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other digital wallets at the membership level, though some locations may have different policies for day passes or other services.
If you have a prepaid card with a Visa or Mastercard logo, it will work exactly like a debit card. The same is true for secured credit cards or any other card-based payment method. The only requirement is that the card has enough funds to cover the monthly charge when it is processed.
How the automatic billing cycle works
When you join Planet Fitness, you choose a billing date — usually the date you sign up, but you can request a different date. On that date each month, Planet Fitness charges your payment method for your membership fee. The amount depends on your membership tier: the Black Card membership costs more than the standard membership, and some locations offer different pricing.
The charge appears on your statement under the name of your local Planet Fitness location or under "Planet Fitness" depending on your bank or card issuer. If your payment method is declined, the gym will retry the charge over the next few days. If it continues to fail, your membership may be frozen or canceled, and you will need to contact the gym to restore it.
What to do if you do not have a debit or credit card
If you do not have access to a traditional debit or credit card, a prepaid card is your most straightforward option. You can purchase prepaid cards at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores. Load money onto the card, and use it to pay for your Planet Fitness membership. The card does not require a bank account or credit check.
Some prepaid cards charge monthly maintenance fees or per-transaction fees, so compare options before you buy. Visa and Mastercard prepaid cards are widely available and work with Planet Fitness. If you have a bank account but no debit card, you can request one from your bank — most offer them free or for a small fee.
Changing or updating your payment method
You can change your payment method at any time through your Planet Fitness account on their website or mobile app. Log in, go to your account settings, and select the option to update your billing information. Enter your new card details and confirm. The change takes effect on your next billing date.
You can also call your local Planet Fitness gym directly and ask a staff member to update your payment method over the phone. Have your new card information ready. If you are switching payment methods because your current card is expiring or has been compromised, update it as soon as possible to avoid a failed charge and potential membership suspension.
What happens if your payment fails
If your card is declined when Planet Fitness tries to charge you, the gym will attempt to process the payment again over the next few days. During this time, you can usually still use your membership. If the charge continues to fail after multiple attempts, Planet Fitness will suspend your membership until the payment goes through or you provide a new payment method.
Contact your gym or update your payment information online as soon as you know a charge has failed. Explain the issue — whether the card expired, funds were insufficient, or the card was reported lost. Once you provide a working payment method, the gym will process the overdue charge and reactivate your membership. Some locations may charge a late fee or require you to pay for the suspended period, so check with your gym about their specific policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay cash at Planet Fitness instead of using a card?
No, Planet Fitness does not accept cash for membership payments. You must provide a card-based payment method at signup. Some gyms may accept cash for day passes or other services, but recurring memberships require a card on file for automatic billing.
What if my prepaid card does not have enough money when Planet Fitness tries to charge me?
The charge will be declined, and Planet Fitness will retry it over the next few days. Add funds to your prepaid card before your billing date to avoid this. If the charge fails repeatedly, your membership will be suspended until you provide a working payment method.
Can I use someone else's card to pay for my Planet Fitness membership?
Technically yes, but Planet Fitness may require the cardholder to be present at signup or to verify the payment method. Check with your local gym about their policy. Using someone else's card without permission is not recommended and could cause billing disputes.
Do I have to cancel my membership to stop being charged?
Yes. Simply removing your payment method or letting your card expire will not cancel your membership. You must contact Planet Fitness directly to cancel. Failure to do so means the gym will continue to attempt charging you, and the debt may be sent to collections.
Can I change my billing date after I join?
Yes, most Planet Fitness locations allow you to change your billing date. Contact your gym or log into your online account to request a different date. The change typically takes effect on your next billing cycle.