EPISODE 17: Can You Legally Keep Payments When Someone Cancels Mid-Program?
Installments vs Subscriptions – Protecting Your Payments
Some clients drop out. Others cancel and stop paying. The legal difference between subscriptions and installments can determine whether you keep the money or lose it entirely.
Subscription vs Installment – What’s the Difference?
A subscription gives clients access month-by-month. They can cancel. Installments mean clients are buying the full program, and you’re letting them pay it off over time.
Why You Need the Right Legal Language
If your agreement doesn’t clearly explain what happens when someone cancels midway, you’re exposed. Cory shares two real stories: one studio lost six figures in revenue, another coach lost 66% of their fee—simply because their contracts weren’t clear.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Subscriptions can be canceled under Click to Cancel laws
✔️ Installments are not subscriptions—if clearly stated
✔️ Your contract must explain what happens if a client cancels
✔️ Without this, you’ll lose time, money, and control
🎧 Protect your payments. Understand the difference. Press play now.
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Law Meets Heart: The Conscious Counsel Podcast
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About Us
Heart-leading health and wellness entrepreneurs, we've got your back. The Conscious Counsel Podcast is the go-to resource for business growth and legal advice for practitioners, solopreneurs, and small businesses dedicated to making a positive impact and spreading love and wellness throughout the world.
Law meets heart. Hosted by Cory Sterling, this podcast shares real stories, practical insights, and legal wisdom for wellness entrepreneurs, fitness professionals, and heart-led business owners. Whether you’re scaling your studio, launching a retreat, or just want to make law feel less scary—this show is for you.
Whether you’re a yoga teacher, personal trainer, life coach, or holistic health professional, this podcast gives you the guidance, support, and protection you need without the confusing legal jargon. Tune in for enlightening conversations with experts, industry-specific legal guidance, and real-life case studies of conscious businesses. You do what you do to make the world a better place, and this podcast is here to clear the path so you can show up fully in your gifts. And, if you need legal help, why not get it from a lawyer who loves you?
Cory Sterling
Lawyer & Founder of Conscious Counsel
Cory is a heart-led lawyer, entrepreneur, and podcast host making law fun, accessible, and empowering for wellness professionals around the world.
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