I had been corresponding with this club I was interested in joining.
Finally I came to a meeting where they voted to accept me, I filled out the application, signed it, and paid my money. The next day I decided I did not want to be a member (despite being assured of some things, I realized the club is very unorganized.) I called and asked them not to deposit the check. They said ok. They then called back and said the $100 membership fee was non refundable. I asked since it hasnt been 24 hours could they just tear up the application & check. Of course they said no.
Do I still owe them this money since I am choosing not to be a member and haven't paid any dues? After all, the money was for membership and not the application.
2006-09-19 08:43:51 · 14 answers · asked by nubnqwen 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
I don't know about the state you are in, but in California, you have 3 business days to cancel any contract.
2006-09-19 08:52:01 · answer #1 · answered by GirlUdontKnow 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
What kind of documentation did you sign? This is key. If you signed an application along with your check, and the application stated that the fee was not refundable, then yes, you owe them money. The dues are an entirely separate issue.
What you likely paid is an "apllication fee" which many organizations charge to process the app, and, as a form of "good faith" deposit to indicate your seriousness in participating.
No matter what that one person says, who told you that they would not deposit the check, it is what is in writing that counts. The person who told you about the deposit may not have had the authority to promise that. The "24 hours has nothing to do with anything.
Even a stop check may not solve the problem. Technically, they could sue you for the money, and theyd have your signed application to back up their claim.
However, if there was no mention of a "non-refunable" application fee on any paperwork you signed, then the stop check is a good idea, for a start. Nothing prevents them from suing you, but they might have to provide documented proof of your obligation to win and collect.
Basic lesson in all of this is, "Never sign a document without reading it ENTIRELY, and, don't commit to anything without researching what you are getting into.
2006-09-19 09:05:24 · answer #2 · answered by Vince M 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Check the details on the application. If they are really disorganized, they probably forgot to mention a time limit or anything about the "deposit". Call or go to your bank to let them know not to credit the money, they will help you dispute the charge by the club.
If the club did mention details, you'll have to work off what is said. Seeing as it's been less than a day, you should be able to withdraw your membership and its obligations without fear of legal action (very few things lack a cool-down period and I doubt this is one of those things).
If they're scheming buggers like it sounds, you may need some real life legal advice. Ask some friends or the local business center for references.
2006-09-19 09:01:00 · answer #3 · answered by erythisis 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the contract you signed. REad it carefully. IT should explain what hte money is for, whether or not it is refundable, and how to opt out. You should be protected with the 3-day cancellation laws that are in effect, but you should have written to cancel, not phoned. You need proof of your cancellation (within the 3-day time limit). I'd contact a lawyer in the state in which you live AND in which the club resides.
As is, you can cancel payment on the check (usualy for a fee, $10-20) and then move on.
2006-09-19 08:54:11 · answer #4 · answered by Marvinator 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Read what you have signed, but do a stop payment on the check in the meanwhile. If the club really wants that $100 let them take you to court. Did what you signed tell you that the $100 was a one time, non-refundable fee? If so, you do owe them.
2006-09-19 08:53:14 · answer #5 · answered by tyrawooley 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Call the Attorney General of your area. Seriously. ASK them and let them suggest what you can do. If not, contact your ombudsman and see what help they can come up with. Otherwise, you'll have to deal with the Better Business Bureau (that's a pain in the fundament). If all else fails, speak with your City Councilperson. Take it from there all the way up if you have to. Keep dates and names of who you spoke; yes, keep a diary of this experience, it will help you get your facts across. Good luck and best wishes. You should have a leeway for changing your mind, and if you called them BEFORE they cashed your check, they should've respected your wishes, signed contract or not. But, do read the fine print anyway. You might find something there to help your cause.
2006-09-19 11:35:25 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check the paperwork. If you went to court, the judge would want to see if it explicitly says the money is for membership or application fee. If it does not say, then I'd stop payment on the check.
2006-09-19 08:49:56 · answer #7 · answered by Usagi 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think you do. I would do a stop payment on the check. They sound like they are just out for money. That is not a club that is a very greedy person. Be very careful next time you look at a club or organization.
2006-09-19 08:48:26 · answer #8 · answered by bearwitch1979 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Morally yes, legally yes. A signed document like the application would hold up in court if it came to that.
2006-09-19 08:50:34 · answer #9 · answered by Mickeymouse20 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Re-read the application very carefully.
2006-09-19 08:52:46 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋