Will I owe an early termination fee if I cancel?

Yes, if you are still within your contract term (36 months in most states, 24 months in California). ADT charges 75% of all remaining monthly fees. For example, 6 months left on a $50/month plan means a $225 ETF. The fee is waived within the first 6 months under ADT's 6-month satisfaction guarantee, or if ADT fails to meet its service obligations.

How long does it take for cancellation to take effect?

ADT typically processes cancellations within 30 days of your request. Your monitoring remains active during this period. Your final bill will be prorated to the actual cancellation date.

Can I cancel ADT online without calling?

Only if you originally purchased your ADT system online. In that case, log in to myadt.com, go to Account > Manage Subscriptions, and complete the cancellation form. Customers who signed up through a local ADT dealer or technician visit must cancel by phone at 1-800-238-2727.

What happens to my home security monitoring after I cancel?

Professional monitoring stops on your cancellation effective date. Your ADT equipment (sensors, control panel) remains installed but will no longer be monitored. You can use local alarm functionality if supported by your panel, but no emergency dispatch will be triggered.

Can I reactivate ADT service after canceling?

Yes. You can contact ADT to restart service at the same address. However, you will likely need to sign a new contract and may need a technician visit to reactivate or inspect equipment. Pricing may differ from your original plan.

Do I need to return ADT equipment when I cancel?

It depends on whether your equipment was purchased outright or leased. Leased equipment must be returned within ADT's specified timeframe after cancellation or you may be charged for it. Equipment that was purchased as part of your package is yours to keep. Confirm the return policy with the cancellation representative.

How to Cancel ADT Security Services (2026)

ADT Security Services plans start from $28.99/month. Follow our 8-step guide to cancel your subscription in about 20 minutes — with tips to avoid retention offers.

Updated: April 2026

from $28.99/month

(≈ €24.75)

HardYou save $347.88/year by cancelling

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Estimated Time:20 minutes

Cancel Method:Phone

Gather your account details

Before calling, collect your ADT account number (found on your monthly bill or by logging into myadt.com), the 4-digit verbal security password on your account, your service address, and the name on the account. Also note how many months remain on your contract so you can calculate any early termination fee (75% of remaining monthly charges).

Check if you qualify for online cancellation

Log in at myadt.com, go to 'Account' then 'Manage Subscriptions'. If a cancellation form appears, you can complete the process online. This option is only available to customers who originally purchased their ADT system online. If no form is visible, you must cancel by phone.

Call ADT customer service at 1-800-238-2727

Call 1-800-238-2727 (1-800-ADT-ASAP) during business hours. When the automated system answers, say 'Cancel service' or select the option for 'Account Management'. You will be placed in a queue for a cancellation specialist. Wait times can be 5–15 minutes.

Verify your identity

The representative will ask for your account number, service address, the name on the account, and your 4-digit verbal security password. Have all of these ready to avoid delays.

State your intent to cancel and decline retention offers

Clearly state: 'I want to cancel my ADT monitoring service.' You will be transferred to a retention specialist who will offer alternatives such as a reduced monthly rate, a plan downgrade to remove optional features, or a temporary service suspension. Politely but firmly decline all offers if you want to proceed with cancellation.

Confirm cancellation terms and fees

Ask the representative to confirm: (1) the exact cancellation effective date, (2) the amount of any early termination fee (ETF = 75% of remaining monthly charges), (3) whether you owe a final prorated bill, and (4) whether any equipment must be returned and the deadline for return.

Request written confirmation

Before hanging up, ask the representative to send written confirmation of the cancellation to your email address. Note the representative's name and a confirmation or case number. If confirmation is not received within 3–5 business days, follow up by phone.

Return equipment if required

ADT may require you to return leased equipment (control panels, sensors, cameras) within a specified window after cancellation. Ask about the return process and deadline on the call. Keep any return shipping receipts as proof.

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