Can you use ADT without a contract?

Author: Dr. Lenora Schroeder  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 4, 2026

No, ADT only offers home security systems that include professional monitoring, and all plans require a contract.

Can you get ADT without a contract?

You can get a no long term contract self-monitoring plan from Blue by ADT that doesn't require you to sign on at all. Want the pros to handle your home security monitoring? You can also help protect your home with 24/7 professional monitoring services on a month-to-month basis with no long-term contract.

Will my ADT alarm still work if I cancel service?

You can cancel your ADT and use your security equipment without monitoring. This makes your system “self-monitored.” Keep in mind that if you are still under contract with ADT, you must complete your contract before you can cancel monitoring.

Can I use my ADT system without a subscription?

ADT does require you to keep a monitoring package to get full usage out of your equipment. Without the package, many features are unavailable and you don't get complete protection.

What happens to ADT equipment when you cancel?

When you cancel your ADT contract, you don't give back the ADT alarm system to the company. In fact, you don't pay ADT for the ADT equipment when you first sign the contract. ADT only charges ADT customers the installation fees for the equipment at the customer's property when a new contract is signed.

Can I still use my ADT alarm without monitoring?

How to get out of an ADT contract without paying?

Yes, you can cancel your ADT contract anytime by calling customer service at 800-238-2727. Whether you pay penalties or not depends on how many months you have left on your contract. You may be able to cancel in the first six months with no penalties thanks to the company's money-back service guarantee.

Can I use my ADT equipment with another company?

It's important to understand that you can switch home security companies. In most cases, ADT equipment can be used by other alarm companies, including Security Alarm. Let us help you save money by utilizing as much of your existing equipment as possible!

Can I still use ADT app if I cancel?

Yes, you can continue to Arm/Disarm your system on your ADT Base, Keypad, and Keychain. However, you will not be able to log into the ADT+ app to do so remotely. You will also no longer receive alerts and notifications from your ADT smart home security system.

How much does ADT cost a month?

ADT Pricing vs The Competition

It's all about getting the most value for your money. And in that case, ADT is a clear top choice. Not only does ADT provide good equipment, it also offers good monitoring. The $24.99 to $49.99 that you pay per month gives you access to ADT's monitoring network.

What is the best home security system without a monthly fee?

In our recent tests, we found that Simplisafe, abode, and Ring Alarm are the top three picks for a no-fee approach.

Can I just unplug my ADT system?

Your panel has 2 sources of power: The AC power (where it is plugged into an outlet) and the System backup battery. To fully power down your panel you must disconnect both of these. (Note: Powering down your panel should only be done if it is the last resort.

Does ADT require a 3 year contract?

The standard ADT contract is 36 months, unless you live in California, where it's only 24 months. Once the initial contract period is up, you will automatically roll over into a month-to-month contract that you can end at any time without penalties provided you give the company at least 30 days' notice.

Is ADT worth it?

ADT is a home security provider that offers self-setup and professionally installed alarm systems and cameras. The company's long-term contracts can feel restrictive, but the benefits can be worth it for customers looking for a professionally installed and monitored system from a household name.

Is there a cancellation fee for ADT?

Upon early termination of 36-month monitoring contract, ADT may charge 75% of the monthly service charges due for the balance of the initial contract term.

Am I under contract with ADT?

For current customers enrolled in MyADT.com, you can find your end date quickly and easily. Simply log into MyADT.com and view your profile page. If a contract end date is not available, this may indicate you do not have a current contract with ADT.

What is cheaper than ADT?

Vivint is the only brand with this approach, but it has one of the best offerings to begin with a starter kit and build from there. With monthly monitoring ranging from $30 to $45 a month, it's more affordable than a subscription-like ADT and includes valuable extras like video storage.

Can I use my ADT system without subscription?

Yes, you don't need an ADT Self Setup security system or monitoring plan to use its cameras. You can also use ADT Self Setup cameras without a storage subscription plan. If you need extra storage, you can simply add a microSD card to the Indoor Camera or Wireless Outdoor Camera.

How to get out of an ADT contract?

If you would like to cancel your account, please call 1-800-ADT-ASAP. Please note that if you wish to cancel services with ADT, it may be helpful to have your contract available.

Is ADT or Ring better?

Based on our experience testing both systems, ADT is a little better when it comes to features and tech. It offers more control options and a larger selection of equipment with more highly specialized functionality. For a little more information, check out our ADT review.

What is better, ADT or Vivint?

ADT and Vivint rank neck-in-neck for their professionally installed systems. However, Vivint's contracts are more flexible, and the company earns better customer reviews and has a better privacy record.

Do you have to return ADT equipment?

Any system or device received within the first 30 days of the original order date must be returned within 21 days of receiving the RMA label to avoid Non-Returned Equipment Fees*.

How to lower ADT bill?

Negotiate with ADT

Reach out to ADT at 1 (800) 521-1734 and let them know you are considering moving services or scaling back. You can ask to be transferred to the customer loyalty department or the customer retention department where a representative will work with you to try and keep you as a customer.

What is the contract policy for ADT?

ADT may, at any time, cancel this Contract at its option if: (1) ADT's CMC is destroyed or damaged so that it is impractical for ADT to continue service;(2) ADT cannot acquire or retain the transmission connections or authorization to transmit signals between my premises and its CMC or the applicable fire or police ...

Does ADT work if wifi goes out?

ADT Self Setup and ADT Smart Home Security Systems power outage: The ADT Smart Home Hub and ADT Base include a backup battery that last 24 hours. Communications to the ADT Monitoring Centers may still be disrupted in the event of a power outage if your router and internet communications do not also have battery backup.

What is the ADT monthly monitoring fee?

ADT Home Security Cost. You can get a full ADT package for as low as $390, and monthly monitoring costs between $24.99 and $49.99. Rob Gabriele , Managing Editor & Home Security Expert Updated January 14, 2025. SecureScore™: 9.2 / 10.

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