How to cancel ADT

To cancel ADT, you must contact ADT directly by phone at 1-800-ADT-HELP (1-800-238-4357) or through your online account. ADT does not process cancellations through email or chat. Have your account number ready when you call — it appears on your bill or in the ADT mobile app. The representative will confirm your identity, discuss any early termination fees that explore to your contract, and process the cancellation. Most cancellations take effect within 5 to 7 business days, though you remain responsible for charges through your final billing date.

If you are under a long-term contract, ADT will charge an early termination fee unless you have reached the end of your contract term. This fee varies by state and contract type but typically ranges from several hundred dollars. Ask the representative for the exact amount before you confirm the cancellation. Some states allow a cooling-off period of 3 to 30 days after signing, during which you can cancel without penalty — check your contract or ask whether this applies to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Call ADT at 1-800-238-4357 to cancel; phone is the only method ADT accepts for cancellations.
  • Have your account number available before calling, and ask about early termination fees before confirming the cancellation.
  • Cancellation takes 5 to 7 business days to process, and you pay charges through your final billing date.
  • Some states allow a 3 to 30 day cooling-off period after you sign a contract, during which you can cancel without a fee.
  • If ADT installed equipment in your home, ask whether you must return it or pay a non-return fee.

Understanding ADT contract terms before you cancel

ADT contracts typically run for 24, 36, or 60 months. You can find your contract length on your original paperwork or by logging into your ADT account online. If you cancel before the contract ends, you will owe an early termination fee. The amount depends on how much time remains on your contract and your state's regulations — some states cap the fee at a percentage of remaining payments, while others allow ADT to charge the full remaining balance.

Before you call to cancel, log into your ADT account or pull up your most recent bill and note the contract end date. This tells you whether you will face a fee and how much it might be. If you are close to the end date, waiting a few weeks or months may save you money. If you must cancel when ready, ask the representative for a written estimate of the termination fee before you proceed.

What happens to ADT equipment when you cancel

ADT typically owns the security system equipment installed in your home — the control panel, sensors, and monitoring devices. When you cancel, ADT may ask you to return this equipment or may arrange to pick it up. If you do not return equipment that ADT owns, you may be charged a non-return fee, which can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on what was installed.

Ask the ADT representative during your cancellation call what equipment you must return and how to return it. Some ADT locations provide a prepaid shipping label or arrange a pickup. Others require you to mail equipment back at your own cost. Get these details in writing or note the representative's name and the date of the call so you have a record of what was agreed. Keep any tracking information if you ship equipment back.

Canceling ADT through your online account

ADT's website and mobile app allow you to view your account, make payments, and manage some settings, but they do not have a cancellation option. You cannot cancel through the app or website — you must call. This is intentional on ADT's part, as phone cancellation allows representatives to discuss your contract, fees, and options before the cancellation is final.

What you can do online is prepare for your cancellation call. Log into your account to find your account number, contract end date, and current balance. Write down any questions about fees or equipment return. Having this information ready before you call makes the conversation faster and ensures you have all the facts you need to make a decision.

Dealing with early termination fees

Early termination fees are the main cost of canceling ADT before your contract ends. The fee is not optional — it is part of your contract. However, you have a few options to reduce or avoid it. First, check whether you are within a cooling-off period. Some states require ADT to allow cancellation within 3 to 30 days of signing without penalty. If you signed recently, ask the representative whether this applies.

Second, ask whether ADT offers any promotions or waivers. Occasionally ADT will reduce or waive the fee if you have been a long-term customer or if there is a service issue. This is not may provide, but it is worth asking. Third, if you believe ADT violated your contract — for example, by failing to provide monitoring or by charging unauthorized fees — mention this during your cancellation call. Document any service problems before you call so you can describe them clearly.

What to do if you cannot reach ADT by phone

ADT's phone line can have long wait times, especially during business hours. If you have trouble reaching someone, try calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon on a weekday. You can also try the ADT website to see whether there is a callback option that lets you request a call rather than waiting on hold.

If you have a complaint about ADT's service or billing, you can file a complaint with your state's Public Utilities Commission or Attorney General's office. These agencies can sometimes pressure ADT to respond or resolve disputes. Keep copies of your bills, contract, and any written communication with ADT. If you are disputing a fee or service issue, having documentation helps your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel ADT without paying an early termination fee?

You can avoid the fee only if you have reached the end of your contract term or if you are within a cooling-off period (usually 3 to 30 days after signing, depending on your state). Otherwise, the fee applies. Ask the representative for the exact amount before you confirm cancellation.

What if I move and want to cancel ADT?

Moving does not automatically cancel your contract or waive early termination fees. You must still call to cancel. However, if you are moving to an area where ADT does not provide service, mention this during your call — some representatives may waive or reduce the fee in this situation.

How long does it take for ADT to stop monitoring my home?

Monitoring typically stops within 5 to 7 business days after you call to cancel. Until then, ADT continues to monitor your system and you remain responsible for charges. Confirm the exact stop date with the representative and ask whether you should disarm your system or take any other steps.

Do I have to return the ADT equipment?

If ADT owns the equipment (which is typical), yes — you must return it or pay a non-return fee. Ask the representative which items must be returned and how to return them. Get these instructions in writing so you have a record.

Can I switch to a different security company without canceling ADT first?

You can sign up with another company, but you still owe ADT's early termination fee. The new company cannot remove ADT's equipment or stop ADT's monitoring — only ADT can do that. Cancel ADT first, then have the new company install their system.