Important update

Eligible households may continue to apply for TV converter box coupons while supplies last, until July 31, 2009. Applications for coupons will continue to be accepted online, over the phone, by mail and by fax.

TV converter box coupons are plastic cards that look like gift cards. The Coupon Program is mailing coupons via first-class mail.

Coupons cannot be printed or downloaded from the Program Web site and are not available to pick up at retail locations.

Consumers should call ahead to confirm availability of coupon-eligible converter boxes at the store on the day you plan to shop. To find a participating retailer in your area, go to www.DTV2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx. Coupon-eligible converter boxes also may be purchased online or by telephone and shipped directly to your home.

While it is illegal to sell coupons, it is OK to donate them. Consumers who have an unexpired coupon they do not need may check with friends, parents or other family members who have an older antenna TV and need a coupon. By giving them your coupon, you can help to ensure they continue to receive important local news and information.

About the Digital TV coupon program

The NTIA  has been directed by Congress to set up a program that allows households to obtain coupons that can be applied toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes. Every household is eligible to receive two coupons, worth $40 each, which can be applied toward the purchase of eligible converter boxes.

You can apply for the converter box coupons by calling 888-388-2009 or by visiting 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 and expire after 90 days. Lost, stolen, or expired coupons will not be reissued.

When your coupon arrives

When your coupon arrives in the mail, it will include an insert that lists nearby participating retailers. The retailers are likely to be stores where you commonly buy electronic products. You can also order TV converter boxes online and by telephone.

A list of eligible converter boxes is available online. 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.