Digital Television (DTV)

On Friday, June 12th 2009 television viewing will change from analog (radio waves) to digital (computer signals). TVs that use an antenna to pick up local programs will not work unless they have a digital tuner (found in newer TVs) or a converter box.

TVs that pick up programs using cable or satellite will continue receiving broadcasts without a converter box.

There are three things that to do with an analog television that is not digital:

1. Keep your existing TV and buy a converter box, or
2. Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service, or
3. Purchase a new TV with a digital tuner.

To learn more about digital transition or to learn about television needing a converter box, contact the Senior LinkAge Line® at 1-800-333-2433 or visit www.dtv2009.gov.

Converter Box Coupon Program

Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for people using their analog TV sets in early 2009. The Program allows households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.

Keep in mind:

1. Converter boxes usually cost $40 to $70.
2. Coupons cannot pay for sales tax.
3. Converter boxes do not have to be the same brand as your TV.
4. Coupons are good for 90 days.
5. Coupons that are stolen, lost or expired are not replaced – you only get 2.
6. Coupons can take 3-4 weeks to arrive in the mail.
7. Coupons look like a gift or credit card, don’t throw them out!

To get help applying for free coupons, contact the Senior LinkAge Line® at 1-800-333-2433 or visit www.dtv2009.gov.

The following links provide helpful information about DTV:

• www.dtv2009.gov – Apply for a converter box coupon
• www.dtv.gov – General information about DTV
• www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/digitaltv.html - FCC consumer facts
• www.dtvanswers.com – Helpful questions and answers
• www.tpt.org/dtvhelp/ - TPT’s Help Your Neighbor campaign & toolkit