On February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting in analog and switch to 100% digital broadcasting.

What does this mean for people, often seniors, who have analog televisions and still use “rabbit ear” antennas? It means that their televisions, the ones receiving free TV using an antenna will not work after February 17, 2009.

Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service will need to take action before February 17, 2009, to ensure their televisions continue to work.

According to dtv2009.gov, there are three things you can do:

1. Keep your existing analog TV and purchase a TV converter box. A converter box plugs into your TV and will keep it working after Feb. 17, 2009, or
2. Connect to cable, satellite or other pay service, or
3. Purchase a television with a digital tuner.

While most people these days have televisions that will be in compliance with the change, it’s possible that some older people, perhaps least equipped for financial outlay for “extras” such as televisions, and least likely to want to dispose of a “perfectly good TV,” will have to make some changes.

The good news is that there are converter boxes available that will allow them to use their own sets. Through the Department of Commerce, you can apply for up to 2 coupons for $40 off a converter. Find out more information at TV Converter Box Coupon Program.

But, be careful. According to a 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.

Check out mom and dad’s or grandma and grampa’s TV now, and make sure they’re prepared.