DTV questions and answers

As the countdown to the transition to digital television continues, and in the wake of recent news that the government has reached its converter box coupon funding ceiling, the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights Education Fund launched the Twin Cities’ DTV coupon exchange program on Friday.

People who do not need their converter box coupons can donate them to households in need by sending coupons to a new program set up by the Twin Cities area DTV Assistance Centers.

"You may have satellite or cable, but your neighbor may not. So if your household is eligible for coupons but won't need them, you can give these unused coupons to a neighbor, or send them in to the coupon exchange," explained cooridnator Paula Fynboh. 

The program will accept any coupon that is valid and has not expired, regardless of who ordered it. Coupons cannot be bought, sold, or exchanged for goods other than converter boxes.

Converter boxes cost approximately $40 to $70, and can be purchased at local retailers. The converter box is a one-time cost and does not come with any monthly fees. Consumers can use the government-issued coupons to offset the cost of these boxes.

"During these difficult economic times, there are many families struggling to get by," said Erica Swanson of LCCREF. "Many households have unused coupons that they do not need. Instead of throwing them in the trash, we are asking residents to donate them to at-risk members of the community who need them."

LCCREF is urging residents to act now before the DTV transition on Feb. 17.

Minnesotans are urged to mail their unused coupons to:
DTV Coupon Exchange Program
PO Box 50253
Minneapolis, MN 55405

For more information on how the DTV transition will impact vulnerable communities, visit: www.civilrights.org/dtv/.