This is a simple rip-off, scam, organized crime company. I had paid for an 18 months gym membership at a neighborhood gym, Irving Fitness. I paid in advance and in full because I was taught that the only thing you should by on credit is a house.in regards to anything else, if you can't afford right now—you don't need it right now. Anyway, to my chagrin, after almost 12 month, the gym closed (without notice). About a month letter I received a letter in the mail stating that a gym (about 10 miles away) would honor the remainder of my membership. I felt cheated. I was not going to drive to the next city. But I decided to just chalk it up as a lost-and forget about it.
Well, I guess I should have made some noise. Last week, I was checking my bank account and I found a $25 charge to ABC financial-Irving Fitness, charged to my account. What?! I immediately called the phone number that was attatched to the charge and told the woman that there is a mistake. She told me that it was not a mistake, it was merely my monthly charge for my gym membership. I told her that the gym was closed, and that when I did have a membership, I paid it in full. Therefore I do not owe. If anything, they owe me a 6-month refund! She told me that according to my contract, after the 18 month period, I am to continue to pay $25 monthly, indefinely for a membership to a gym that no longer exists. We argued for a few minutes, then I got her address. I sent a certified and delivery confirmation letter, telling them that I wanted my unauthorized membership canceled immediately and I wanted my refund. I sent a complaint letter to the attorney general and to BBB. I canceled my checking debit card to prevent further withdrawals. I am awaiting there response.
Beware, signing up for these neighborhood gyms. I thought that by paying up front, I would avoid scams like these. But I guess the best thing would be to pay with a cashier check. It's hard to watch out for ABC Financial because they hide behind other businesses. Just beware!
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