DTV Converter Box Coupons in the Mail

February 25, 2008

The government’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration agency (NTIA) began mailing coupons last week to help consumers pay for digital television (DTV) converter boxes which will prevent their analog sets from becoming obsolete.

Analog Televisions Become Obsolete in 2009

Effective February 2009, networks will air television broadcasts in digital signals only. The Digital Transition means that viewers who currently receive programming via an antenna and do not have cable or satellite service, will need to purchase a digital converter box to view television when the new broadcasts start. As many as 13 to 21 million households may be impacted by the switch to DTV.

Converter Boxes Available at Major U.S. Retailers

The NTIA’s coupons are worth $40 each and will offset the retail cost of digital converter boxes which range from $40 to $70 each. Consumers may request two coupons per household which must be used within 90 days or they expire. The coupons, which resemble plastic gift cards, can be used at such major retailers as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, RadioShack, and Circuit City.

How to Apply for Coupons

Any U.S. consumer who wants to apply for digital converter box coupons can call the NTIA’s 24-hour hot line at 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009), or go to www.dtv2009.gov to access an application form. The form can be filled out online, or faxed to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632), or mailed to P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR, 97208-2000.