Congress recently passed the DTV Delay Act, which extends the deadline for full-power broadcast TV stations to complete the DTV transition from February 17, 2009, to June 12, 2009, ( Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 pdf format of Deficit_Reduction_Act2005.pdf ). The new law allows more time for consumers to be prepared for the DTV transition. However, Congress did not require stations to continue broadcasting in analog after February 17 th, and stations may choose to complete their transition, and stop broadcasting in analog, before June 12 th. If you would like to view a list of those stations click here.

The NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information Administration) has extended its TV converter box coupon program until July 31, 2009.

You can apply for the coupon online.

Or call to request the coupon (s):

1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)

TTY English 1-877-302-2634

TTY Spanish 1-866-495-1161

You can also download a paper form pdf format of DTV_Paper_copy.pdf , fill it out and return to:

TV Converter Box Coupon

P.O. Box 2000

Portland, Ore. 97208

or fax your form to 1-877-DTV- 4ME2.

In addition, AARP continues to educate older Americans and their families about the steps they must take to prepare for the transition. AARP has established a toll-free phone number consumers can call.

  • Individuals can call 1-877-698-8068 to speak with a trained operator who can answer their DTV questions
  • Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST
  • Spanish-language operators are available as well

The national DTV call center will be in operation through July 31, 2009.

For more information, go to: http://www.aarp.org/money/consumer/articles/digital_tv.html