How to Apply Online for Coupons for a Digital-to-Analog Converter Box

On February 17, 2009, all broadcast television stations in the United States will pull the pull on their old analog signals and start transmitting only in digital. The biggest change in broadcast TV since the advent of color brings with it huge advantages including freeing up the overcrowded air waves for public safety agencies, additional broadcast channels, clearer reception, and wireless Internet and telephone services. But there is also one big drawback. If you happen to own an older television set that does not have a digital tuner, you will no longer be able to receive over the air signals. To help citizens make the transition to the digital age, the federal government is giving away coupons worth $40 to offset the cost of purchasing a no-frills digital-to-analog converter box.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Access to a computer with an Internet connection

How to Apply Online for Coupons for a Digital-to-Analog Converter Box

1. Log onto the Internet. Go to www.dtv.gov. Find the first box on the upper-left-hand corner of the page below the masthead, titled “Consumer Corner.” Left click on the third option, “Converter Box Coupon Program.” A new web page will open and your browser will be re-directed to the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety page.
2. Find the Menu on the left side of the page and left click on the first option, “Converter Box Program.” This will take you to the Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program page.
3. Find the Menu on the left side of the page and left click on the third option, “Consumers.” This will take you to TV Converter Box Coupon Program page.
4. Find the Menu on the right side of the page and left click on the third option, “Apply for a Coupon.” This will take you to the TV Converter Box Coupon Program Application page.
5. Type your first name, middle initial, last name, home address, city, state, and ZIP code in the appropriate boxes. There is also a box to check if the U.S. Postal Service does not deliver mail to this address.
6. Determine whether any of the television sets in your home subscribe to a pay service such as cable or satellite. Check the appropriate box.
7. Determine whether you want 1 or 2 coupons. Check the appropriate box.
8. Check the signature box to declare that the information you have provided is true and correct. Type in the words that appear in the distorted Captcha image in the box provided, in order and separated by a space. Left-click on the red Submit button.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also apply for coupons by telephone by calling (888) DTV-2009.