Why Gyms & Membership Clubs Are Switching to Check-by-Phone for Dues
For gyms, martial arts studios, and membership clubs, recurring revenue is the lifeblood of the business. A predictable stream of monthly dues provides stability and allows you to invest in better equipment, more classes, and a better member experience. However, the very methods used to collect those dues are often a source of significant, hidden costs.
Most clubs rely on credit card auto-billing or ACH direct debits. While convenient, these methods come with financial and administrative burdens that silently eat away at your profits and your time.
This is why a growing number of membership-based businesses are turning to a simpler, more cost-effective solution: Check-by-Phone.
!Stop Losing Revenue on Membership Dues
The Problem: The Hidden Costs of Collecting Dues
On the surface, automated billing seems perfect. But when you dig into the numbers and the time spent managing it, a different picture emerges.
* You lose the revenue for that month.
* You may be charged a return or chargeback fee by your processor.
* Your staff has to spend valuable time contacting the member to update their payment information and re-run the charge.
This administrative churn is a constant drag on productivity and a common source of friction with your members.
The Solution: CHAX Check-by-Phone
CHAX Check-by-Phone offers a powerful alternative that puts you back in control of your revenue. It’s not an automated system, but a tool that empowers you to guarantee payments and eliminate fees.
- Keep 100% of Your Dues: This is the most compelling advantage. CHAX is software you own with a one-time purchase price. There are no per-transaction fees. Whether a member’s dues are $50 or $200, you keep every single penny. The thousands of dollars you were losing to credit card fees now go straight to your bottom line.
A Simple Fallback for Failed Payments: When a member’s credit card or ACH payment fails, CHAX becomes your go-to solution. Instead of a frustrating back-and-forth, the conversation is simple: “I’m sorry, the card on file was declined. To keep your membership active, can I take your bank information over the phone right now to process this month’s dues?*” You get the payment secured instantly, without waiting for them to call back or come in person.
- A Great Option for All Members: Some members are wary of putting a card on file for automatic billing. By offering check-by-phone as an alternative, you provide a secure and convenient option that respects their preferences, making your club more accessible.
By integrating CHAX into your billing workflow, you can plug the leaks in your revenue cycle. It’s the perfect tool for handling payment failures, reducing your dependence on costly credit card processors, and ensuring that the money your members owe you ends up in your bank account, not in the pocket of a payment gateway.
Start maximizing your membership revenue today. See how CHAX can work for your club.