direct debit that shouldnt have gone out has left me with overdraft charges

LoubyLu

Hi, wasn't sure where to post this thread.


I got a debit card statement today that shows a one off payment (to exercise for less gyms/harlands group) made for a years subscription last summer has been taken out as a direct debit this year - I am ringing in the morn to correct this but if they are awkward where do I stand?


Secondly the unexpected direct debit has sent me into the overdraft. I've never had an overdraft charge so don't know how they work it out but estimate that it will be over £100 which we can't afford! If I explain the error to the bank do you think it will get sorted or is it something I should be complaining to harlands about for causing?


Thanks for any help!

Nasqueron

I have seen suggestion that if it is a one off (or not happened for some time) if you ring the bank and ask very nicely and politely (maybe bit of a sob story in there) they'll give you a goodwill gesture and cancel it.

Dunno about the gym but if you signed a contract last year they may well have included a clause to renew after a year. Website suggests that they will use an automatic renewal (rule 9 on link below) once your minimum period is up.

https://www.snapdda.co.uk/Clients/Xercise/MasterTermsAndConditions.pdf

The FAQs on their website state:

If I no longer want to be a member of Xercise4Less how do I cancel my membership?
It’s very simple, if you have fulfilled your commitment to the membership you have joined on, then simply place your 30 day cancellation notice in writing to the relevant club. There is no need to cancel your direct debit with the bank, we will do everything for you, making life as simple as possible. If you wish to have confirmation of any amendments to your account at any stage please contact your relevant clubs’ Operations Manager.

So best cancel (in writing as they require) and put that one down to experience if they're not forthcoming on the phone as they'll probably just say it would have been in the contract you signed when joining

Good luck