How to cancel ADT security

To cancel ADT security, you must call ADT directly at 1-800-ADT-ASAP (1-800-238-2727). ADT does not allow cancellation through their website or mobile app — a representative must process it. Have your account number ready, which appears on your bill or in the ADT mobile app. The representative will confirm your identity, discuss your reason for canceling, and may offer you a discount to stay. If you decline, they will provide a cancellation date and a confirmation number.

The cancellation takes effect on the date the representative gives you, not when ready. If you have a contract with an early termination fee, ADT will calculate what you owe before the cancellation is final. You are responsible for returning any equipment — typically the control panel, keypad, and sensors — within 30 days of cancellation, or ADT may charge you for unreturned devices.

Key Takeaways

  • Call ADT at 1-800-238-2727 to cancel; phone is the only method that works.
  • Have your account number available when you call, and be ready to provide your service address and last four digits of the phone number on file.
  • If you signed a contract with an early termination fee, you will owe that fee unless your contract has expired or ADT agrees to waive it.
  • Return all equipment within 30 days of your cancellation date to avoid equipment charges on your final bill.
  • Request a written cancellation confirmation by email so you have proof the service ended on the date stated.

Understanding ADT contract terms and early termination fees

Most ADT customers sign a contract when they start service — typically 24 months, 36 months, or 60 months. If you cancel before the contract ends, ADT charges an early termination fee. This fee is usually a flat amount or a percentage of the remaining contract value, and it varies by region and the type of service you have. Check your original contract or call ADT to find out what your fee is before you cancel.

Some situations may allow you to cancel without a fee. If you move to an area where ADT does not service, you can cancel without penalty — you will need to provide proof of your move, such as a lease or utility bill showing your new address. If ADT fails to provide service or breaches the contract, you may also have grounds to cancel without a fee, though you will need to document the failures and may need to dispute the charge.

What happens to your equipment after cancellation

ADT owns the control panel, keypad, door sensors, window sensors, and motion detectors — you do not. When you cancel, you must return all equipment within 30 days. ADT will provide a prepaid shipping label or tell you where to drop off the equipment. If you do not return it, ADT will charge you for each unreturned device, typically $100 to $300 per item depending on what it is.

Before you return equipment, take photos of the serial numbers on each device and the shipping label. Keep the tracking number from the carrier. This creates a record in case ADT claims it never received the equipment. If a charge appears on your final bill for unreturned equipment you know you sent back, you will have proof to dispute it.

Timing and your final bill

ADT will bill you through the cancellation date you agree on. If you cancel mid-month, your final bill will be prorated — you pay only for the days you had service that month. The final bill also includes any early termination fee, equipment charges for unreturned devices, and any outstanding balance from previous months. This bill typically arrives 7 to 14 days after your cancellation date.

If you paid for service in advance — for example, you prepaid three months — ADT should refund the unused portion. This refund may take 4 to 6 weeks to appear on your original payment method. If it does not arrive within that time, call ADT with your confirmation number and ask them to track the refund.

Canceling if you have a monitored alarm system

If ADT monitors your alarm — meaning they call you and emergency services if the alarm triggers — cancellation is more complex. You must give ADT at least 30 days' notice so they can remove your account from their monitoring system. If you cancel without notice, your alarm may still trigger and ADT may still respond, which could result in false alarm charges from your local police department.

Before you cancel monitoring, arrange a replacement monitoring service if you want to keep your alarm system. Some alarm companies can take over monitoring of your existing ADT equipment; others require you to switch to their hardware. Ask your new monitoring company whether they support your current panel before you cancel ADT, so there is no gap in coverage.

Disputing charges on your final bill

If your final bill includes charges you believe are wrong — an early termination fee you should not owe, equipment charges for devices you returned, or service charges after your cancellation date — contact ADT within 30 days of receiving the bill. Call 1-800-238-2727 and ask to speak with a billing specialist. Have your confirmation number, the date you canceled, and photos or tracking numbers for returned equipment ready.

If ADT does not resolve the dispute, you can file a complaint with your state's attorney general or with the Federal Trade Commission. Keep copies of all emails, confirmation numbers, and bills. If the charge appears on your credit card or bank account, you can also dispute it with your card issuer or bank, though this should be a last resort after you have tried to resolve it with ADT directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel ADT online or through the app?

No. ADT requires you to cancel by phone at 1-800-238-2727. The website and mobile app do not have a cancellation option. This is intentional — ADT wants to speak with you directly to try to retain your business or discuss your concerns.

What if I have an early termination fee and cannot afford to pay it?

Ask the representative if ADT will negotiate or waive the fee. Some representatives have authority to reduce or remove the fee, especially if you have been a long-term customer or if you explain financial hardship. It does not hurt to ask, but there is no may provide. If ADT refuses, you can pay the fee or keep the service active.

How long does it take for ADT to stop charging me?

ADT stops charging you on the cancellation date the representative gives you. However, you may see a final bill 7 to 14 days later that covers service through that date, plus any fees. After you pay the final bill, no further charges should appear. If they do, contact ADT when ready with your confirmation number.

Do I have to return the equipment in the original box?

No. You can return equipment in any box or padded envelope as long as it is find and the items do not get damaged in transit. Use the prepaid shipping label ADT provides. Take photos of the serial numbers and the label before you ship it so you have proof of what you sent.

What if I move before my contract ends?

If you move to an area where ADT does not service, you can cancel without an early termination fee. Provide ADT with proof of your move — a lease, utility bill, or change of address confirmation. If you move to an area where ADT does service, your contract moves with you and you will still owe the early termination fee if you cancel.