How to Cancel ADT Home Security Without Paying the ETF (2026)

Updated 2026-02-16 · 7 min read

ADT contracts typically run 36 months at $28-$60/month — that's up to $2,160 over the contract. Cancel early and you'll face an early termination fee (ETF) of 75% of your remaining balance. But there are ways around it.

Method 1: Cancel After Contract Ends (No Fee)

If your 36-month contract has expired, you're month-to-month and can cancel with no ETF:

1. Call 1-800-238-2727
2. Say "I want to cancel my ADT service"
3. Provide written notice — ADT requires 30 days' written cancellation notice
4. Send a letter to: ADT Security Services, PO Box 650823, Dallas, TX 75265
5. Include your name, address, account number, and "I am canceling my ADT service effective [date]"

Method 2: Cancel Early (With Strategies to Reduce the ETF)

Strategy A: Moving to an Area ADT Doesn't Serve

If you're moving to a location where ADT doesn't offer service, you may be able to cancel without an ETF. This includes:

• Moving internationally
• Moving to an apartment that doesn't allow security system installation
• Moving to a rural area outside ADT's coverage

Strategy B: Transfer Your Contract

ADT allows you to transfer your contract to a new homeowner if you're selling your house. This is the cleanest exit:

1. Ask the buyer if they want ADT service (many do)
2. Call ADT at 1-800-238-2727 to initiate the transfer
3. The new owner takes over your remaining contract — you owe nothing

Strategy C: The 3-Day Right of Rescission

If you signed up within the last 3 business days, you can cancel penalty-free under the FTC's Cooling-Off Rule. Send written notice immediately.

Strategy D: Service Issues

If ADT has failed to provide adequate service (false alarms not addressed, equipment failures, slow response times), document everything and use it as grounds for contract termination without ETF. File complaints with:

• Your state's Attorney General
• The Better Business Bureau
• The FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov

ADT Cancellation Fee Calculator

Cheaper Alternatives to ADT

• Ring Alarm — $200 upfront + $20/month for monitoring. No contract. Cancel anytime.
• SimpliSafe — $250 upfront + $18-$28/month. No contract. Easy DIY install.
• Wyze Home Monitoring — $80 upfront + $5/month. Cheapest professional monitoring available.
• Self-monitoring — Ring, SimpliSafe, and Wyze all work without monthly fees (you get alerts on your phone, no professional dispatch). Cost: $0/month after equipment.

What Happens to Your Equipment?

• Purchased equipment: It's yours to keep, but it only works with ADT monitoring
• Leased equipment: ADT may require you to return it or pay a fee
• The equipment cannot be reused with another monitoring service
• Door/window sensors may work as standalone alarms without monitoring