How to Apply for an Analog-to-Digital TV Converter Box Coupon

On February 17, 2009, the federal government is requiring all broadcast television stations in the U.S. to switch from analog to digital broadcast signals. This means that anyone owning an older model TV that does not have a digital tuner will need an analog-to-digital converter box to receive broadcast transmissions if they use rabbit-ears or a roof-top antenna to receive a signal. The government is offering coupons to help with the purchase cost of the converter box. Here's how to get one.

Things You'll Need

• A phone or an Internet connection
• A mailing address

Instructions

1. If you subscribe to a cable, satellite or telephone TV service, you don't need to worry about having a converter box, no matter how old your TV is. The switch will not affect you. If you use rabbit-ears or a roof-top (or other type) of antenna to receive broadcast signals, you will need a converter box starting February 17, 2009.

2. Converter boxes will run anywhere between $40 and $70, depending on supply and demand. The federal government is offering up to 2 $40 coupons per household in the U.S. to help with the purchase costs.

3. To apply for the coupon(s) simply call [phone] or go to www.dtv2009.gov to fill out an online application. The coupons will expire 90 days after they are issued.

4. Most big-retailers and electronics outlets are now carrying the converter boxes and will accept the coupons. The government has set aside $1.5 billion dollars for this coupon program, which means up to $33.5 million coupons are available for distribution through the end of March 2009.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't rush to apply for a coupon, there are plenty available.

• If you subscribe to a cable, satellite or any other type of TV service, don't apply for a coupon. You will not need a converter box.

• If you receive only local broadcast channels through your antenna you will need a converter box starting February 17, 2009.

Resources

• Link to apply online for a coupon