How to recover money after canceling a subscription, including partial-month refunds, post-cancellation charges, and trial-to-paid conversions. This guide applies specifically to Planet Fitness ($10-$24.99/mo) subscribers in Rhode Island, citing applicable state and federal law.
Rhode Island doesn't have a specific auto-renewal law, but the DTPA (no specific auto-renewal law) (R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-13.1-1) and federal consumer protection laws still protect you:
Applied to Planet Fitness (In-person or certified mail) in Rhode Island
Request a refund within 24–72 hours
Contact the company immediately by phone or email. State: 'I canceled on [date] and was charged [amount]. I am requesting a full refund under your refund policy.' Many companies have a grace period.
Cite ROSCA if the trial auto-converted
The Restore Online Shoppers' Confidence Act (15 USC § 8403) requires clear disclosure before a trial converts. If terms weren't clearly disclosed, the charge is legally questionable.
Escalate to a supervisor
If the first agent denies your refund, ask for a supervisor. Supervisors have more discretion. Be polite but firm — state you are prepared to file a chargeback.
File a chargeback if denied
Call your credit card issuer. Say: 'I want to dispute a charge from [company]. I canceled the service and they continued to charge me / the trial terms were not clearly disclosed.' Provide your cancellation documentation.
File an FTC complaint
Go to reportfraud.ftc.gov and report the company. The FTC uses these complaints to prioritize enforcement. Companies with many complaints face investigation.
Method: In-person or certified mail · Difficulty: nightmare
Planet Fitness-specific tips
Annual fee is non-refundable. Monthly billing stops after processing.
These apply to Planet Fitness in every state, including Rhode Island:
SubScrub auto-cites 16 CFR Part 425 + sends legally-backed letters