Do I need to return ADT equipment?

It depends on your contract. If you leased the equipment, you may need to return it. If you purchased it outright, you keep it but it will not function without ADT monitoring service.

How long does ADT cancellation take?

The phone call typically takes 15-30 minutes due to retention attempts. After confirming, service usually ends within 30 days or at the end of your billing cycle.

Can I transfer my ADT contract to a new homeowner?

Yes. If you are moving, you can transfer your ADT contract to the new homeowner. This avoids the early termination fee. Contact ADT to arrange the transfer.

Last verified: February 2026

How to Cancel Your
ADT Security Service

Brace yourself — ADT cancellation requires a phone call and some patience. Here's your battle plan for getting through it, plus what to know about early termination fees.

Quick Overview

Difficulty

Hard

Time

15-30 minutes

Method

Phone call only

ETF

75% remaining

Cancel ADT Security Service

Review your ADT contract first

Before calling, find your ADT contract to check your contract end date and early termination fee (ETF) details. Most ADT contracts are 36 months. If your contract has expired, you can cancel without an ETF. The ETF is typically 75% of remaining monthly payments.

Call ADT at 1-800-238-2727

The only way to cancel ADT is by phone. Call 1-800-238-2727 and select the option for cancellation or account changes. Best times to call are Tuesday-Thursday mornings to avoid long hold times. Have your account number ready.

Be prepared for retention offers

ADT's retention team will likely offer you discounted rates, free equipment upgrades, or temporary service pauses. If you're set on canceling, politely but firmly decline. You may need to repeat your request several times — stay patient and persistent.

Pay the early termination fee if applicable

If you're still under contract, the ETF will be calculated and charged to your account. Ask the representative for the exact amount and payment timeline. If your contract has ended, confirm there is no ETF before proceeding.

Get written confirmation

Request a cancellation confirmation email with the effective date. For extra protection, send a cancellation letter via certified mail to ADT, 1501 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Keep copies of everything.

Pro Tips for ADT Cancellation

ADT is notoriously difficult to cancel. These tips can help you get through the process more smoothly.

Before You Call

1. Find your contract end date
2. Note your account number
3. Check if you own or lease equipment
4. Call during business hours (M-F 8am-8pm EST)
5. Set aside at least 30 minutes

Ways to Avoid the ETF

1. Wait until contract expires
2. Transfer contract to new homeowner
3. Move to area with no ADT coverage
4. File complaint if service failures documented
5. Negotiate a reduced ETF

What Happens After You Cancel ADT?

Monitoring stops immediately or at billing cycle end

ADT will stop monitoring your home once cancellation is processed. Your alarm system hardware may still function as a local alarm, but the 24/7 monitoring center will no longer respond to alerts.

Equipment depends on your contract

If you purchased your equipment outright, you keep it (though it won't have monitoring). Leased equipment may need to be returned. Some equipment can be repurposed with DIY monitoring services.

Remove ADT yard signs and stickers

After cancellation, you should remove ADT signs from your yard and window stickers. Keeping them up without active service could create a false sense of security and potentially liability issues.

Consider DIY alternatives

After canceling ADT, you might want to explore more affordable DIY home security options like Ring, SimpliSafe, or Wyze that offer no-contract monitoring at much lower monthly rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ADT charge an early termination fee?

Yes. If you're still within your contract (typically 36 months), ADT charges 75% of the remaining monthly payments as an ETF. For example, with 12 months left at $45/month, the ETF would be around $405.

Can I cancel ADT online?

No. ADT requires you to cancel by phone at 1-800-238-2727. There is no online cancellation option. You can also send a cancellation request via certified mail to their headquarters as a backup.

Can I transfer my ADT service to a new home?

Yes. If you're moving, ADT can often transfer your service to your new address, sometimes with new equipment installed at no cost. This may extend your contract, so ask about the terms before agreeing.

How do I return leased ADT equipment?

If you leased your equipment, ADT may send a technician to remove it or provide return instructions. Contact them to arrange equipment pickup. If you purchased it outright, the equipment is yours to keep.

Can the new homeowner take over my ADT contract?

Yes. ADT allows contract transfers to new homeowners. This is the easiest way to avoid the early termination fee when selling your home. Contact ADT to arrange the transfer before closing.

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