DTV Coupon Program Expands

Residents of nursing homes and facilities for intermediate care and assisted living are now eligible to receive one $40 government coupon toward the purchase of a TV converter box. After Feb. 17, when all TV transmissions will be digital, the converter boxes will be necessary for anyone with an analog TV that relies on an outdoor antenna or indoor rabbit ears to receive TV signals.

“This new ruling fixes what I consider to be a discriminatory practice against people without access or means to satellite or cable television,” says Joan Pelletier, director of the Triangle J Area Agency on Aging in Durham, N.C.

Nursing home residents, their representative or a family member must fill out special applications available online at www.DTV2009.gov.

Post office box holders are also eligible under the new ruling. They can apply for up to two coupons online or call 1-888-388-2009 toll free. They must also provide their home address.

Cathie Gandel is a freelance writer based in Bridgehampton, N.Y.