DTV converter-box coupons: Act now, program ends July 31, 2009

The digital converter box coupon program will end July 31.

If you received over-the-air TV broadcasts on an analog TV and would still like to apply for a coupon to offset the cost of getting a DTV converter, the deadline for requesting one—July 31, 2009— is fast approaching. A DTV converter will enable you to continue receiving TV broadcasts, now sent as digital signals, on an analog TV.

You can apply for a converter-box coupon on the Web, by mail at PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000, or by calling the coupon program's toll-free 24-hour automated system at 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009). You can also fax a coupon application to 1-877-388-4632. Applications can be downloaded via the DTV coupon website. (Note that those living in a licensed nursing home, intermediate care facility or assisted living facility, must mail in the Application Form for Nursing Home Residents).

As part of the DTV transition, all eligible U.S. households can request two $40 coupons, which can be used to buy eligible converter boxes at participating consumer electronics retailers. Applications will be accepted until midnight, July 31, and coupons must then be used within 90 days of being mailed.

If you need more information about the converter-box program, you can visit an online FAQ, or call the toll-free hotline: 1-888-388-2009 (voice) or 1-877-530-2634 (TTY). And if you recently applied for a coupon and would like to check the status of your request and the expected mailing date, visit the NTIA's converter-box status Web site. There's also a troubleshooting Web site for handling problems.

We suggest not waiting until the last minute, as it's possible that supplies of digital converter boxes at retail could be more limited the closer we get to the coupon deadline. So apply for a coupon today! —James K. Willcox

Comments

[Marge]

We have the red coupon card and the expiration of course is July. We received one converter box and need the second one. I called the phone number- 1-888-388-2009- and get nowhere. No one to talk too just a recording. HELP! How can I get the second box?

[Dale]

Russ is incorrect here. If you have cable, you are down on the priority list, but you are still "elibible." I just applied and got it, so don't let having cable stop you.

[RussInSanDiego]

The operative word here is "eligible" households. If your household receives cable service at all, you are apparently NOT eligible to apply for a coupon for that non-cable-connected analog TV in the spare bedroom.