(June 17, 2008)

Q – What is happening with the TV Converter Box Coupon Program?

A- Consumers need to know what is happening. Beware of scams related to the converter boxes. Consumers should shop around and apply for a coupon. There is a considerable difference in prices being charge by local merchants for the boxes.

The official government website to obtain information is:

www.DTV2009.gov

Here are some basics:
What is the digital television transition?

At midnight on February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting. Digital broadcasting promises to provide a clearer picture and more programming options and will free up airwaves for use by emergency responders.

What is the TV Converter Box Coupon Program?

Congress created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009. The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, which can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes.

Remember a TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box from this program.

Consumers have a variety of options. Options to explore include:

Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009, or
Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service, or
Purchase a television with a digital tuner.
How do I request a coupon?

Between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009, you can request a coupon while supplies last in one of four ways:

Apply online

Call the Coupon Program 24-hour hotline 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009).

Mail a coupon application to: PO BOX 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000. Download a Coupon Application here.

Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632)

Deaf or hard of hearing callers may dial 1-877-530-2634 (English/TTY) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish/TTY). TTY Service is available from 9 AM - 9 PM Eastern Time Monday through Friday.

Will the transition affect me?

You will need to take action before February 17, 2009 if you currently watch TV on an analog TV set that is not connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service. If you own a television with a digital tuner or subscribe to a pay TV service, you will likely continue to receive TV programming as usual after the transition.

Watch Out for Schemes.

A recent converter box scheme has also surfaced. Consumers have called regarding full-page ads in newspaper(s) that read “Public to get free TV without Government coupon”. The paid advertisement is from a company called Universal Techtronics located in Canton, Ohio. The ad says the public can get free digital TV without a government coupon…and suggest you sign up for a “Miracle Clearview TV converter box” from the company. The ad claims it’s free, but read the fine print and you learn you have to pay $59 for a 5 yr warranty plus shipping. Ouch.

Q - What’s our scheme of the week?

A- If you are in business, you have received them, those yellow page advertisements in the mail that appear as invoices. Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has filed an agreed final judgment with the operator of a “Yellow Pages” directory that deceived businesses and nonprofits. According to the state’s investigation, the defendant invoiced prospective customers for advertising they never agreed to purchase. Ad TelAmerica Inc., publishers of Yellow Pages Directories in Carrollton, must refund all advertising revenue received from customers that were deceived by its scheme and who filed complaints. The defendants also will pay $35,000 in attorneys’ fees. If you are a victim please go to the website for further information:

http://www.oag.state.tx.us/oagNews/release.php?id=2499