TV Converter Box Coupon Program Information

To help households with the DTV transition, the federal government is providing coupons toward the purchase of converters. This program is run by the U.S. Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

Beginning in January 2008, all households in the United States and its territories will be able to request, on a first-come-first-served basis, up to two coupons worth $40 each toward the purchase of converter boxes. Coupons will expire 90 days after they are issued. The government will develop a simple application process and require consumers to only provide their name, address, whether they subscribe to a pay TV service, and whether they want one or two coupons.

Coupon-eligible converters, which are expected to cost between $50 and $70, will be available in early 2008 at stores and online retailers, where televisions and other consumer electronics products are purchased.

NTIA will provide consumers a list of eligible converters and participating retailers when coupons are mailed and on its website. Also, participating retailers will be aware of converters eligible for the government coupon. Coupons cannot be combined, so only one coupon may be used toward the purchase of a converter-and coupons must be redeemed at the time converters are purchased.

More information about the coupon program is available at www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon. The public may request coupons starting January 1, 2008, by calling toll free 1-888-388-2009 (1-888-DTV-2009) in English and Spanish or going to www.mydtv2009.gov. The hearing impaired may call the TTY number 1-877-530-2634 for information in English, and for information in Spanish, consumers can call TTY number 1-866-495-1161.

SOURCE: NTIA; ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon