How to cancel your Momentum medical scheme in south africa
Understanding Momentum and your cancellation options
Momentum is one of South Africa's largest healthcare and financial services providers, offering medical scheme membership, wellness applications, and productivity subscriptions to hundreds of thousands of members. Whether you hold a Momentum medical aid plan, use their Energising Habits wellness app, or subscribe to Momentum Plus, each product operates under different cancellation rules and timelines. Yafee specialises in helping South African consumers navigate these complex cancellation processes, and this guide walks you through every step specific to your situation.
Your decision to cancel may stem from affordability pressures, switching to a competitor scheme, or simply reducing your subscriptions. Regardless of your reason, South African consumer law grants you specific rights-and Momentum has corresponding obligations. Understanding these rights before you cancel ensures you avoid costly mistakes and protect your financial interests.
What this guide covers
This guide addresses cancellation of Momentum medical schemes (the primary product), app-based subscriptions via Apple App Store or Google Play, and your entitlements under the Consumer Protection Act No. 68 of 2008. You will learn the formal notice procedures, notice periods, refund eligibility, and escalation routes if Momentum refuses your cancellation.
Why legal clarity matters
Medical scheme cancellations are heavily regulated in South Africa. The Medical Schemes Act No. 131 of 1998 and Circular 1 of 2021 issued by the Council for Medical Schemes govern notice periods, ongoing liability, and your right to switch schemes. Yafee has extracted the key legal requirements so you can act with confidence and enforce your rights if the company delays or denies your request.
Momentum pricing and subscription plans
Your cancellation decision may depend on what you currently pay; here is the current pricing landscape across Momentum's product range.
App-based wellness and productivity subscriptions
Momentum's consumer-facing apps-Energising Habits and Momentum Plus-are distributed through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in South Africa. The table below shows current pricing as of 2024-2025.
| Plan |
Price (ZAR) |
Billing cycle |
Product type |
| Energising Habits Weekly |
R39.99 |
Weekly |
Wellness habit-tracking app |
| Energising Habits Monthly |
R199.99 |
Monthly |
Wellness habit-tracking app |
| Energising Habits Annual |
R1,199.99 |
Annual |
Best value; wellness app |
| Momentum Plus Monthly |
R104.99 |
Monthly |
Productivity dashboard |
| Momentum Plus Annual |
R1,049.99 |
Annual |
Best value; productivity tools |
Medical scheme membership costs
Momentum medical aid premiums vary substantially based on your age, family composition, and selected benefit option. Unlike app subscriptions, medical scheme costs are individually calculated and typically billed monthly or quarterly. Your exact premium and cancellation notice period appear in your membership documentation or policy statement. Contact Momentum's member services directly to confirm your current premium before initiating cancellation.
Common reasons for canceling Momentum
Understanding whether cancellation serves your interests helps you make an informed decision; here are the main drivers behind member exits.
Rising premiums and affordability
Medical scheme costs in South Africa rise annually, often outpacing inflation. If your Momentum premium has become unaffordable, switching to a lower-cost competitor scheme or supplementary cover may free up household income. Similarly, app subscriptions can accumulate across multiple family members. Yafee recommends comparing alternative schemes or reviewing your benefit level before cancelling-sometimes downgrading to a leaner option costs less than switching schemes entirely.
Switching to a competitor scheme
You may be moving to Discovery, Bonitas, Fedhealth, or another registered medical scheme offering better value or coverage for your needs. South African law protects your right to switch without penalty. The Council for Medical Schemes requires that your old scheme release you within 30 days of your written notice, and your new scheme cannot impose waiting periods for pre-existing conditions. Yafee advises you to provide both schemes with written notice simultaneously to avoid coverage gaps.
Downgrading your wellness subscription
If you subscribed to Energising Habits or Momentum Plus but no longer use the app, you can cancel directly through your device's app store settings without contacting Momentum customer service. This is the fastest route to stopping recurring charges.
Your legal position as a south african consumer
South African consumer law grants you explicit protections when cancelling Momentum services; understanding these rights ensures you enforce them.
The consumer protection act no. 68 of 2008
The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) governs all Momentum subscriptions and schemes in South Africa. Under section 15, you have the right to cancel a service contract without penalty during a "cooling-off period"-typically 5 business days after purchase for distance sales (including app store subscriptions). After the cooling-off period, you retain the right to cancel, but Momentum may require notice and may enforce a notice period stipulated in your contract. However, the CPA prohibits "unreasonable" notice periods; more than 30 days is generally considered unreasonable for consumer subscriptions.
The medical schemes act and switching rights
If you hold a Momentum medical scheme, the Medical Schemes Act No. 131 of 1998 and Circular 1 of 2021 protect your right to switch schemes. Momentum must accept your written cancellation notice and release you to your new scheme within 30 days. You cannot be charged exit fees, and your new scheme must accept you immediately without enforcing waiting periods for claims related to conditions you already had. The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), the statutory regulator, enforces these rights and investigates complaints.
Your legal position
You have the right to cancel Momentum medical schemes and app subscriptions at any time. Momentum must provide clear notice requirements in your terms and conditions. If notice periods exceed 30 days, the CPA may deem them unreasonable. If Momentum refuses to release you, charges exit fees, or fails to process your cancellation within agreed timelines, you can escalate to the CMS (for medical schemes) or the National Consumer Commission (for app subscriptions). Yafee recommends keeping all written correspondence to evidence your cancellation request.
How to cancel Momentum medical scheme membership
Medical scheme cancellation requires formal written notice submitted to Momentum's head office; follow this step-by-step procedure to ensure your cancellation is recorded and processed on time.
Step 1: prepare your cancellation letter
Draft a formal letter addressed to Momentum Medical Scheme's head office. Include your member number (visible on your membership card or recent statement), full name, date of birth, contact telephone number, and email address. State clearly: "I hereby give notice of my intention to cancel my Momentum medical scheme membership, effective [insert date 30 days from today]." Include your reason for cancellation (optional but recommended for CMS records if disputes arise later). Yafee advises you to keep a copy for your records before posting or emailing.
Step 2: identify the correct postal or email address
Momentum operates multiple regional offices. Your cancellation notice must reach Momentum Medical Scheme's head office or member services department. Obtain the correct postal address from your latest policy statement or by calling Momentum's member helpline to confirm the current address. Email submission is faster and provides electronic proof of sending; ask whether member services accepts cancellations via email.
Step 3: submit your cancellation notice
Send your letter by registered post (certified mail) to Momentum's head office, or email it to the member services email address you obtained. Use registered post because it provides an official delivery receipt. If emailing, request a read receipt to confirm delivery. Do not rely on casual phone calls; written notice is mandatory under the Medical Schemes Act and CPA, and only written notice triggers the 30-day processing timeline.
Step 4: confirm receipt and record your reference number
After 3-5 business days, call Momentum member services to confirm they received your cancellation letter. Note the date you called, the name of the staff member you spoke to, and any reference number provided. Document this conversation in writing (email yourself a summary). This evidence protects you if Momentum later claims it never received your notice.
Step 5: notify your new scheme (if switching)
If you are switching to another medical scheme, submit your application and membership documents to your new scheme immediately. Provide your new scheme with Momentum's scheme code and your membership number so they can formally notify Momentum of your switch. Your new scheme will often coordinate the release with Momentum to minimise coverage gaps. Yafee recommends timing your new scheme's effective date to align with Momentum's cancellation date (typically 30 days after your notice date).
How to cancel Momentum app subscriptions
Energising Habits and Momentum Plus subscriptions purchased through Apple App Store or Google Play can be cancelled directly via your device settings without contacting Momentum; this is the fastest cancellation route for app-based subscriptions.
Cancel via apple app store (iOS)
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your name at the top of the settings menu, then select "Subscriptions".
- Locate the Momentum app (Energising Habits or Momentum Plus) in your active subscriptions list.
- Tap the Momentum app subscription.
- Select "Cancel subscription" and confirm the cancellation.
- Apple will confirm your cancellation and stop billing immediately if you have an active trial period, or at the end of your current billing cycle if you are a paid subscriber.
Cancel via google play store (Android)
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top left corner.
- Select "Subscriptions".
- Tap the Momentum subscription (Energising Habits or Momentum Plus).
- Select "Cancel subscription" and confirm.
- Google Play will stop charging you at the end of your current billing period.
Request a refund for unused portions
If you paid for an annual subscription and cancel partway through the year, you may be eligible for a pro-rata refund. Contact Momentum's app support team via the app's "Help" or "Contact Us" section, or email them directly (find the address in your app's terms of service). Explain that you cancelled early and request a refund for the unused portion. The CPA requires providers to refund prepaid amounts that correspond to services not provided; Momentum cannot retain fees for cancelled services. Yafee recommends submitting your refund request within 30 days of cancellation to strengthen your claim.
What happens after you cancel Momentum
Understanding the practical consequences of cancellation-coverage gaps, final billing, data retention-helps you prepare and avoid surprises.
Medical scheme coverage ends on your effective cancellation date
Once your 30-day notice period expires, your Momentum medical scheme membership terminates. Your coverage stops on that date. Any claims submitted after your cancellation date will be rejected. If you are switching to another scheme, ensure your new scheme's effective date matches or precedes your Momentum cancellation date to avoid uninsured gaps. If you have outstanding claims pending with Momentum (e.g., awaiting authorization for a planned procedure), contact member services before cancelling to establish whether the claim will be honoured post-cancellation.
Final billing and account settlement
Momentum will issue a final invoice or statement reflecting any outstanding premiums through your cancellation date. If you have overpaid (e.g., paid for a full month but cancelled mid-month), Momentum will credit your account or issue a refund. Monitor your bank account for 2-3 weeks after cancellation to confirm no unauthorised charges continue. If duplicate charges appear, contact your bank immediately and escalate to Momentum's billing department in writing.
App subscription cancellation is immediate
When you cancel an app subscription via Apple App Store or Google Play, the recurrence stops immediately if you are within a trial period, or at the end of your current billing cycle if you are a paid subscriber. You retain access to the app until the end of your paid period. After that date, the app will lock you out unless you resubscribe. Downloaded content may remain on your device but will not sync or update.
Refunds and what you are entitled to recover
Your refund entitlements depend on the product type and timing of cancellation; here is the legal framework.
App subscription refunds under the CPA
If you cancel an app subscription within 5 business days of purchase (the CPA cooling-off period for distance sales), you are entitled to a full refund with no questions asked. After 5 business days, the CPA does not mandate a refund, but if you cancel and have not used the service, you can request a pro-rata refund (the unused portion of your paid amount). Momentum is not legally required to grant this after the cooling-off period, but the CPA's general fairness provisions prohibit unjust enrichment. Yafee recommends submitting your refund request in writing with clear explanation. If Momentum refuses, you can escalate to the National Consumer Commission (NCC) at [email protected].
Medical scheme refunds and final account settlement
Momentum does not refund medical scheme premiums simply because you cancel. However, if you have overpaid due to a billing error or paid in advance for a period after your cancellation date, Momentum must refund the overpayment. Request a final account statement from member services showing all premiums paid and owed through your cancellation date. Yafee advises you to review this statement carefully and query any discrepancies within 30 days. If Momentum cannot justify a charge, demand a refund in writing.
Outstanding claims and post-cancellation benefits
Claims submitted before your cancellation date remain valid and must be honoured by Momentum under the Medical Schemes Act, even if they are adjudicated after your membership ends. Claims submitted after cancellation will be rejected. If you have planned procedures, hospitalisation, or chronic medication refills due shortly after your cancellation date, inform your new scheme immediately so they can authorise continuity of care. Most schemes honour in-progress treatment under "continuous cover" provisions.
Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling Momentum
Cancellation can feel daunting, but these frequent errors are entirely preventable-and Yafee has helped thousands of consumers sidestep them.
Mistake 1: relying on verbal notice instead of written notice
Calling Momentum member services and verbally stating you want to cancel is not sufficient. The Medical Schemes Act and CPA require written notice. Momentum staff may tell you "your cancellation is done," but without a written record, you have no proof. Always follow up verbal conversations with a formal letter or email to member services. Keep the email confirmation or registered post receipt as evidence.
Mistake 2: not confirming receipt of your cancellation notice
Sending a letter by ordinary post creates no proof of delivery. If Momentum later claims it never received your notice, you have no recourse. Always use registered post (certified mail) or email with read receipt enabled. Call member services within 5 business days to confirm receipt and obtain a reference number. Document this conversation.
Mistake 3: cancelling your Momentum scheme without securing alternative cover first
If your new scheme's start date falls after your Momentum cancellation date, you will have an uninsured gap. This is especially risky if you have a chronic condition or anticipated medical costs. Always ensure your new scheme's effective date is on or before your Momentum cancellation date. Request written confirmation from your new scheme.
Mistake 4: not checking for outstanding claims or pending procedures
If you cancel while a claim is pending or a procedure is being authorised, Momentum may reject it as out-of-scope. Before cancelling, review your Momentum online portal for any pending claims or outstanding authorization requests. If any exist, contact member services to establish whether they will be honoured post-cancellation. Obtain confirmation in writing.
Mistake 5: failing to request a refund for prepaid services
If you paid for an annual app subscription and cancelled after two months, you are owed a refund for ten months of unused service. Many consumers simply stop using the app without requesting the refund. Momentum will not volunteer this refund. Send a written refund request to app support within 30 days of cancellation, citing the CPA's prohibition on unjust enrichment.
Checklist before you cancel Momentum
Use this checklist to ensure you have completed all essential steps before submitting your cancellation.
| Task |
Status |
Notes |
| Confirmed your member number and scheme name |
Tick here |
Found on your membership card or latest statement |
| Reviewed your Medical Schemes Act cancellation notice period (typically 30 days) |
Tick here |
Check your membership documentation |
| Secured alternative medical scheme cover with overlapping start date |
Tick here |
Obtain written confirmation from new scheme |
| Checked for pending claims or ongoing procedures with Momentum |
Tick here |
Contact member services or log into your portal |
| Drafted your formal cancellation letter with member number and effective date |
Tick here |
Kept a copy for your records |
| Obtained Momentum's correct postal or email address for cancellations |
Tick here |
Call member services to confirm current address |
| Submitted cancellation by registered post or email (with read receipt) |
Tick here |
Keep proof of sending |
| Called member services to confirm receipt and obtained a reference number |
Tick here |
Document conversation date and staff name |
| Requested pro-rata refund if cancelling a prepaid app subscription early |
Tick here |
Submit within 30 days of cancellation |
| Monitored bank account for unauthorised charges in weeks 1-3 post-cancellation |
Tick here |
Contact your bank immediately if duplicate charges appear |
How to escalate if Momentum refuses to cancel or process your request
If Momentum denies your cancellation, charges you after your effective date, or fails to process your request within 30 days, you have formal escalation routes under South African law.
Medical scheme complaints to the council for medical schemes
The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is the statutory regulator of all registered medical schemes in South Africa. If Momentum refuses to release you, charges exit fees, or delays your cancellation beyond 30 days, lodge a formal complaint with the CMS at:
Council for Medical Schemes
Block A, Eco Glades Office Park, 420 Witch-Hazel Avenue, Eco Park, Centurion, 0157
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 012 431 0500
The CMS will investigate at no cost to you and can compel Momentum to release you or refund unlawful charges. Provide copies of all written correspondence with Momentum, your cancellation letter, and proof of sending.
App subscription complaints to the national consumer commission
If Momentum refuses to refund a prepaid app subscription or continues charging after you cancelled, escalate to the National Consumer Commission (NCC):
National Consumer Commission
Postal: PO Box 13303, Sinoville, 0129
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0860 101 881
The NCC handles consumer disputes under the CPA and can order Momentum to refund unlawful charges or cease collection actions. Include copies of your app store cancellation confirmation, Momentum's refusal email (if any), and your refund request email.
Escalation to your bank if charges continue
If Momentum continues billing your account after your cancellation date, contact your bank immediately. Report the unauthorised charge and request a chargeback (reversal). Provide your bank with evidence of your cancellation notice and Momentum's failure to stop billing. Most banks will grant the chargeback within 10 business days and refund your account, then pursue the claim with Momentum directly. This action does not prevent you from escalating to the CMS or NCC simultaneously.
Key takeaways and next steps
Cancelling Momentum medical scheme membership or app subscriptions is your right under South African consumer law, but it requires formal written notice and careful timing to avoid coverage gaps or unwanted charges. The Medical Schemes Act and Consumer Protection Act protect you, but only if you follow the correct procedure: submit written cancellation notice to Momentum's head office, confirm receipt with a reference number, ensure your alternative cover is in place, and monitor your account for unauthorised charges. If Momentum refuses to cancel, charges you beyond your effective date, or rejects a refund claim, escalate to the Council for Medical Schemes (for medical schemes) or the National Consumer Commission (for app subscriptions). Yafee has walked thousands of South African consumers through this process with confidence and success-and this guide arms you with the legal framework and step-by-step procedure you need to protect your rights. Take action today: draft your cancellation letter, confirm Momentum's address, and send written notice via registered post or email. Your cancellation is your right.
Use the address below to submit your formal written cancellation notice. Contact Momentum member services by telephone to confirm the current postal address or email before sending, as administrative addresses can change.
Momentum Medical Scheme
Head Office - Member Services
Telephone: 0860 60 60 60 (general line)
Website member portal: www.momentum.co.za
For the current postal address, call member services and request "the member services postal address for cancellation notices." Once you have confirmed the address, send your formal letter by registered post (certified mail) and follow up with an email to member services requesting written confirmation of receipt.