Free Stuff: How to get tickets to TV shows taped in NYC

I have to admit I never think of going to talk shows because I live here. Which really makes no sense! But it's tops on the tourist to-do list, so herewith some how-to-get-tickets links to various shows shot in New York (I will update this post throughout the week):

NYTIX.com: Comprehensive listing of TV shows taped in NYC

Regis and Kelly (studio is at 67th and Columbus): Stand-by line at 7AM is worth a try if you don't have tickets. As per website: "Up to a 12 month wait for tickets because there is very limited seating in the studio. To help assure the dates you request will be available, please submit your ticket request at least 6-8 weeks in advance and be sure to include multiple back-up dates to work with in order to help us fulfill your request."

The David Letterman Show: (Studio is the Ed Sullivan Theater at 53rd and Broadway) Call the Stand-by PHONE line the day of starting at 11AM --(212) 247-6497. To get tickets you must 1.) Submit your request using their Online Ticket Form OR 2.) Visit the theater during specified hours and submit an In-Person Request

TDF-your portal to cheap tickets to fabulous events

The Theater Development Fund--aka TDF --is a fantastic organization for up to 70 percent discounts to tickets to Broadway, Off and Off-Off Broadway shows, as well as dance and music, events, including ABT, NYC Ballet, NYC Opera and Met, and more. In the past month I've paid $35 or less for tickets to "The Miracle Worker" with Abigail Breslin and the magnetic Alison Pill; the Ethan Hawke directed "A Lie of the Mind" with David Carradine, Laurie Metcalfe; and Venus in Fur w/Wes Bentley and the thoroughly remarkable Nina Arianda (surely a star-is-born).

The one caveat, as per their website:

To qualify for TDF membership, you must belong to one of the following groups: full-time students, full-time teachers, union members, retirees, civil service employees, staff members of not-for-profit organizations, performing arts professionals, members of the armed forces or clergy. When you join, you will be asked to supply TDF with proof of your eligibility.

It is a wide net--so if you are not eligible, find someone who is.