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Coupon Program

What is the converter box coupon program?
Who is eligible for the coupon program?
Can I still apply for coupons?
How can I get the coupons for a DTV converter box?
Where can I use my coupons?
Which converter boxes are coupon eligible?
Can I replace lost, stolen, or expired coupons?

Q. What is the converter box coupon program?

A. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce has been directed by Congress to set up a program that will allow households to obtain coupons that can be applied toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes. In the current phase of the program, every household is eligible to receive two coupons, worth $40 each, which can be applied toward the purchase of eligible converter boxes.

Q. Who is eligible for the coupon program?

A. While every U.S. household is eligible, supplies are limited. Once the initial supply of coupons has been used, additional coupons will only be available to households that solely receive their TV broadcasts over-the-air using an antenna. Households with TV sets connected to cable, satellite, or other pay TV service are not eligible for the second phase of coupons. Consumers can apply for coupons until March 31, 2009, or until the funds are exhausted.

Q. Can I still apply for coupons?

A. Yes. Since January 4th the coupon program has started a waiting list. Coupons are still being sent out but at a much slower rate. Currently there is no way to know when waiting list applicants will receive their coupons.

Q. How can I get the coupons for a DTV converter box?

A. You can apply for the converter box coupons by calling 888-388-2009 or by visiting http://www.dtv2009.gov. The application requires you to provide your name, household address, number of coupons requested (maximum of two) and whether you subscribe to cable, satellite, or other pay TV service. The coupons will be mailed to your household address – they cannot be mailed to post office boxes – and are active for 90 days.

Q. Where can I use my coupons?

A. When your coupon arrives in the mail, it will include an insert that lists nearby participating retailers. A nationwide list of participating retailers can also be found at https://www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx. The retailers are likely to be stores where you commonly buy electronic products. TV converter boxes are also available online and by telephone. 

Q. Which converter boxes are coupon eligible?

A. The NTIA is maintaining a list of eligible converter boxes at https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm. You may also ask your electronic retailer whether the boxes sold in their store can be purchased using the $40 government coupon. Each coupon may be applied toward the purchase of one converter box; you cannot use two coupons to pay for one box.

Q. Can I replace lost, stolen, or expired coupons?

A. No. If you’ve applied for only one coupon, you can apply for an additional coupon at a later date.  However, once your household has requested two coupons, no additional coupons will be issued.