The nationwide transition from analog to digital television will take place on February 17, 2009. On that day, analog televisions not connected to a converter box, cable, or satellite will stop working because they will be unable to receive digital signals.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is spearheading the program through which consumers can obtain converter boxes -- devices that will receive the new digital signal and “translate” it for analog televisions. Each household is eligible for two $40 coupons, each of which can be applied toward the cost of one converter box.
The NTIA and the U.S. Department of Commerce have collaborated to create a brochure to inform consumers on "Preparing for the Digital Television Transition."
Who Will Be Affected By The Transition?
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) estimates that the transition will affect up to 70 million households nationwide. Anyone who does not subscribe to cable or satellite service will likely need a converter box to receive the new signals.
In order to ensure that your family’s televisions remain functional, please follow the instructions below for claiming coupons and purchasing converter boxes.
Do I Need a Converter Box?
Do any of the televisions in your household require rabbit ears or a rooftop antenna to receive signals?
If NO, then it is likely that you don’t need to do anything to prepare for the switch.
If YES, please follow the steps below to claim your converter box coupon(s).
How Do I Apply for a $40 Converter Box Coupon?
Apply for your coupon(s).
Every household is entitled to apply for two $40 converter box coupons, each of which may be applied toward the cost of one converter box.
There are four ways to apply for these coupons:
1) ONLINE: Visit https://www.dtv2009.gov and follow the step-by-step instructions for applying online.
2) BY PHONE: Dial one of the numbers below and answer the questions as you are prompted.
1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)
TTY: 1-877-530-2634 (English)
1-866-495-1161 (Spanish)
3) BY MAIL: Print out the form linked below, fill it out and send it to:
P.O. Box 2000
Portland, OR 97208
Application for converter box coupon: https://www.dtv2009.gov/docs/Coupon_Program_App_en.pdf
4) BY FAX: Print out the form linked above, fill it out and fax it to:
1-877-DTV-4ME2
Already ordered your coupon but have not yet received it?
Check on the status of your coupon here (you will need the reference number or your address): https://www.dtv2009.gov/CheckStatus.aspx
Where can I redeem the coupons?
Visit the Web page linked below. After entering your address you will be given a list of converter box retailers in your area. Visit one of the suggested retailers to redeem your coupon and purchase a converter box: https://www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx
Can you think of anyone who might need help ordering a coupon and purchasing a converter box?
Please make sure your friends, neighbors, parents and grandparents are aware of the upcoming transition and ask if they need help following the above steps.
When I receive the converter box, is it easy to set up?
On February 6, 2008, a converter box demonstration was held on Capitol Hill for Members of Congress and their staff. To watch a demonstration on how to set up your converter box click here »
For more information regarding the DTV transition, please visit the following Web sites:
