The U.S. Government is offering up to two $40 rebate coupons per household, but are running up to six weeks behind in getting those coupons out. So they are urging everyone to order the coupons before the end of the year. That's tomorrow.

'Apply. Buy. Try.' So says the dtv2009 site. Do it now. Here is a list of the coupon eligible converter boxes.

All of this is especially important if you intend on dropping your cable service, and picking up an HDTV antenna, fully capable of receiving the appropriate frequencies and HDTV signals. "Plenty of high-definition TV is available for free, over the air," reports Wired's Gadget Lab, in the '12 Good Gadgets for Hard Times.'

In addition, you could also visit Hulu and/or Joost and watch your favorite shows online and on your own time, for free.