Here are some questions that we have heard quite a bit in the past couple months. Please check out the NTIA web site for additional answers and/or the most up-to-date responses to these questions.

Am I required to provide the UPC codes for the converters I stock and sell?

Yes, retailers must submit UPC or SKU data during the certification process. During processing, the UPC or SKU data submitted for coupon redemption will be verified against the retailer-approved UPCs or SKUs on file. If the UPC/SKU data does not match, the redemption will not be authorized and the retailer will not be paid.

Will I have to capture each converter box serial number as I sell it?

No, retailers must only capture the UPC and SKU in order to redeem the coupon.

Will my customer have to provide ID when they redeem their coupon?

No, the NTIA does not require that you ID your customers.

How do I handle returns?

If you accept returns, your customer may return the converter box he/she purchased using the coupon for another coupon-eligible certified converter box. You may not give cash or credit for the coupon amount on a return; however, if your customer paid any money out of pocket for his/her converter box, you may reimburse your customer as your store policy permits.

Does the coupon cover sales tax?

No. The coupon can only be used towards the cost of the converter box. It does not cover sales tax. For instance, if the converter box costs $30, the customer can use the coupon to cover the entire $30, but will still have to pay the sales tax for the product out of pocket.

Will consumers still need an antenna to receive over-the-air programming?

Yes, and they might even need a new antenna in some cases. The NTIA recommends looking at Antenna Web for more information on what antennas your customers might need.

Why do I have to obtain a CAGE Code from Central Contractor Registration (CCR)?

The US Treasury payments are made by electronic fund transfer to participating retailers. It is required that retailers register with CCR to receive funds electronically from the US Treasury.

What is a CAGE code and how do I get one?

The Commercial and Government Entity Code, or CAGE code, is a unique identifier used to identify a given facility at a specific location. Retailers can get a CAGE code by visiting the Central Contracter Registration Web site. Prior to receiving a CAGE code, the retailer must receive a DUNS number.

What is a DUNS Number?

A Dun & Bradstreet DUNS number is a unique nine-digit sequence recognized as the universal standard for identifying and keeping track of more than 100 million businesses worldwide. To apply for a DUNS number, go to http://www.dnb.com.

In a chain, do all stores have to participate in the coupon program?

No. Individual stores with DUNS numbers and CAGE codes may participate without all chains participating.

How will coupon payment authorization and settlement be processed with the retailer?

There are several coupon redemption options available to retailers, including redemption via web, phone and credit card network. The U.S. Treasury will direct deposit the funds into the bank account the retailer has on file with the CCR.

What credit card authorization network will the coupon program use?

These coupons will be authorized using the Visa private label network if the retailer chooses to redeem coupons via a credit card network.

How should retailers price the converter boxes?

Retailer prices of coupon-eligible TV converter boxes are set by stores. The coupon can only be used to offset the purchase price of a certified converter box by up to $40. If the converter box is priced $40, the consumer will not get money back. The NTIA says that manufacturers or retailers may wish to offer package offers of converter boxes combined with antenna interfaces and/or antennas at promotional prices. The converter boxes, however, must be sold as a stand alone unit. It cannot be sold conditioned on the purchase of any other items.

Can coupons be sold?

No, this is illegal.

If each household gets two coupons, can consumers use two coupons to buy one converter?

No. Consumers can only use one coupon per converter.

Will the NTIA replace a consumerâ__s card if it is lost or stolen?

No. The NTIA will not reissue lost or stolen cards.

Will the government use consumersâ__ names and addresses for other purposes?

No, consumer names are protected under privacy laws.