On February 18, 2009, over-the-air television stations will be required to broadcast their television signals in digital format. This means that older analog TVs will no longer be able to receive signals over-the-air, unless they have a digital converter. Analog TVs that are connected to cable TV, satellite or other video programming services will still operate and do not need a digital converter.

If your TV is not connected to cable or satellite and if it receives its TV signals over-the-air (such as by an antenna), you can qualify for a $40 government coupon that can be used toward the purchase of a converter box, which will permit your analog TV to receive digital signals. This coupon will cover most, if not all, of the cost of the converter box, which is estimated to cost between $40 and $70. Consumers can qualify for up to two coupons per household.

If you need more information, have questions about whether your TV is digital or analog, or want to apply for the coupon program, please visit www.dtv2009.gov.

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