You can cancel your Equinox membership by submitting a written 30-day notice after your first year, but strict rules and paperwork apply. This guide explains every step, from understanding your contract to the latest 2025 legal updates—so you can avoid surprises, hidden fees, and unnecessary stress.
Knowing how to cancel your Equinox membership is crucial because Equinox’s policies are among the most rigorous in the fitness industry. With monthly dues often exceeding $200 and strict contract enforcement, you must get the process right to avoid extra charges. Read on for a step-by-step walkthrough, special cases (medical, relocation), legal rights, freeze options, and answers to the most common questions.
What Is the Equinox Membership Cancellation Policy?
Summary of Key Terms
- Initial Contract: Most Equinox memberships start with a mandatory 12-month commitment. You’re locked in for the full year unless you qualify for special exceptions.
- Cancellation Window: New members can cancel within 5 business days for a full refund. If your total dues exceed $2,500, this window extends to 45 days.
- After 12 Months: You may cancel with a 30-day written notice—no explanation needed.
- Early Cancellation Exceptions: Allowed only for moving 25+ miles away, a serious medical condition (with documentation), or death.
- Required Notice: Must be written—delivered in person, by certified mail, email (if accepted), or phone (typically as a first step).
- Fees: If you cancel for a qualifying reason within the first year, a processing fee (up to $100) may apply. Otherwise, no additional fees after the first 12 months.
- Official Policy Link: Equinox Terms
- Recent Legal Update: In May 2025, Equinox was fined $600,000 in New York for confusing cancellation practices. New procedures make cancellation more transparent. Read More
Why Is Understanding Your Contract Important?
Equinox’s contracts are legally binding, with specific terms on how, when, and why you can cancel. Failing to follow these terms can result in:
- Additional charges for remaining dues
- Denied cancellation requests
- Collection activity on unpaid balances
- Loss of legal claims if you don’t document your request
By knowing your rights and following the correct process, you’ll protect your finances and credit while avoiding unnecessary stress.
Step-by-Step: How to Cancel Equinox Membership
1. Review Your Membership Agreement
Start by reading your Equinox contract. This will clarify:
- Your initial term (usually 12 months)
- Renewal and cancellation provisions
- Notice period required
- Accepted cancellation methods
If you can’t find your agreement, log in to your Equinox member portal or request a copy from your club.
2. Assess Your Eligibility to Cancel
A. Within the First 5–45 Days (New Members):
- Cancel within 5 business days for a full refund, or up to 45 days if your dues exceed $2,500.
- Provide written notice in person, by mail, or email (if accepted).
- Refunds will be processed, minus any days used.
B. During Initial 12-Month Term:
- Early cancellation is not allowed unless you:
- Move more than 25 miles away (must provide proof: lease, utility bill, employment letter, etc.)
- Develop a medical condition preventing gym use (doctor’s note required)
- Pass away (proof required from family/estate)
C. After 12 Months:
- Submit 30-day written notice for cancellation.
- No explanation is needed. You’ll have access for the final 30 days and be billed for this period.
3. Choose Your Cancellation Method
A. In-Person at Your Home Club
- Visit your Equinox club in person.
- Request and complete the official cancellation form.
- Provide required documentation (if canceling for medical/relocation reasons).
- Request a written cancellation receipt—this is your legal proof.
B. By Certified Mail
- Write a cancellation letter including:
- Full name
- Membership ID
- Contact information
- Reason for cancellation (if required)
- Signature
- Mail to your home club or the address listed in your contract.
- Use certified mail or another tracked service for proof of delivery.
C. By Email
- Email concierge@equinox.com or your club manager from your registered account email.
- Include all required details (name, member ID, reason if applicable, and documentation).
- Request written confirmation. Follow up until you receive it.
D. By Phone
- Call your club or Equinox Concierge.
- Phone cancellations are not final—follow up with written notice.
- Ask the representative to send you an official confirmation email.
4. Wait for Confirmation & Final Billing
- Your membership will remain active for 30 days after Equinox receives your cancellation request.
- Expect one final billing cycle—your access continues during this period.
- Always keep copies of all communications, confirmations, and receipts.
5. Special Cases: Medical or Relocation Cancellations
Medical Condition
- Provide a signed doctor’s note stating you cannot participate in physical activity.
- Equinox may request additional medical information.
- A processing fee (up to $100) may apply.
- Expect a prorated refund of unused dues and possibly a partial refund of your initiation fee.
Relocation (25+ Miles)
- Provide evidence of your new address (lease, utility bill, job offer).
- A processing fee (up to $100) may apply.
- You’ll receive a prorated refund of any unused dues.
Death
- Family or estate submits proof (death certificate).
- Equinox will close the account and refund unused dues.
References:
Unity Corporate Wellness |
Reddit: Member Experiences
Can You Pause or Freeze Your Membership?
Yes—if you want a break but don’t want to lose your benefits:
- Freeze Period: Up to 2 months (longer for medical issues)
- Freeze Fee: $30–$50/month (varies by club and reason)
- How to Freeze: Contact your club or log in to your Equinox portal to request a freeze
Pausing your membership is ideal if you’re traveling or recovering from minor injury, and you’ll keep your spot and perks.
New York State Legal Update (2025): Why This Matters
In May 2025, the New York Attorney General fined Equinox $600,000 for making it “unreasonably difficult” to cancel memberships. Under the settlement:
- Equinox must clearly disclose cancellation procedures
- New York members who tried to cancel between Feb 9, 2021, and Dec 31, 2024, can claim compensation:
- Up to $100 for documented cancellation efforts
- Up to $250 if a formal complaint was filed
- Deadline to file a claim: August 2, 2025
- Email for claims: NewYorkAGclaims@equinox.com
Source: NY Attorney General Press Release
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I cancel Equinox online?
Some clubs accept email cancellation, but official policy generally requires written notice by mail or in-person.
Will I get a refund if I cancel?
- Within 5–45 days: Yes, minus used days.
- After 12 months: No refund; you simply stop being billed after the notice period.
- Early exceptions: Prorated refund for medical, relocation, or death.
How long does it take for cancellation to go through?
30 days from the date Equinox receives your notice.
What if I move overseas?
Relocation more than 25 miles from any Equinox qualifies for early cancellation; provide proof.
What if I want to rejoin later?
You may need to pay a new initiation fee and current rates.
What should I do if Equinox doesn’t process my cancellation?
Contact customer service, escalate with written proof, and—if you’re in New York—consider filing a claim with the AG.
Quick Comparison Table: Equinox Cancellation Scenarios
| Scenario | Notice & Method | Proof Required | Fee | Refund |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First 5–45 days (new signup) | Written, in-person/mail | None | None | Full, minus used days |
| After 12 months (standard) | 30 days, written | None | None | None |
| Medical (before 12 months) | Written + doctor’s note | Doctor’s note | Up to $100 | Prorated |
| Relocation 25+ miles (before 12) | Written + proof | Lease, utility, job offer | Up to $100 | Prorated |
| Death | Written + proof | Death certificate | None | Prorated |
Tips for a Smooth Cancellation
- Always use written notice and request confirmation (email, mail receipt, etc.)
- Read your contract for any club-specific rules or local laws
- Document everything—dates, copies, and staff names
- Act early: Don’t wait until the last minute, especially if you’re moving or have medical issues
- Ask about freezing your membership if you’re unsure about canceling completely
Useful Resources
- Equinox Official Membership Terms
- NY Attorney General Settlement News
- ScribeUp Equinox Cancellation Guide
- Unity Corporate Wellness Medical Cancellations
Conclusion
Canceling your Equinox membership is straightforward if you know your contract details and provide formal written notice. After your first year, just submit a 30-day notice in writing—ideally in person or via certified mail. If you’re still within your first year, check if you qualify for early cancellation due to relocation or a medical issue, and gather all required proof.
Ready to cancel? Review your agreement, pick your method, and get written confirmation. For added security, freeze your membership if you may return, or consult customer service if you’re unsure. New York members should check for settlement eligibility and submit a claim by August 2, 2025.
Have more questions? Visit the official Equinox site or reach out to customer support for the latest policy info.