The conversion to digital television in the United States is a year away, so, people are beginning to make preparations if they need to make any changes to their current television reception situation.

According to a new study by MassPIRG, some mass market retailers are misleading people, often the low-income and elderly, who don’t know what they need to do once all TV stations broadcast exclusively in digital signals.

The study found:

…many sales clerks tried to persuade surveyors to buy new, expensive digital televisions or high-definition televisions rather than explaining the availability of the less expensive options such as buying converter boxes, discounted by government coupons available to anyone who needs one.

and

⿢ 81% of the sales staff did not know about or gave out inaccurate information about converter boxes.

⿢ 78% of the sales staff provided inaccurate information about the federal government⿿s coupon program for converter boxes.

⿢ 42% of sales staff provided inaccurate information about the month of the digital transition deadline date.

It is important to know that next year⿿s change does not require any household to purchase a new television set.

Households with older sets still receiving analog signals via antenna (”rabbit ears” or roof antenna) need only purchase a basic converter box that costs approximately $40. And, the U.S. government is offering up to two $40 coupons per home to offset the cost of the most basic converters.

Consumers can call the free government number 1-888-388-2009, or, get more information at https://www.dtv2009.gov.

Make sure mom and dad, or, anyone else, especially those with an older television are ready for the transition to digital TV, and, that they are informed about their options.

(via Jay at Triple Venti)

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