Income investors are typically focused on dividends, but they should also be concerned with generating high total returns over time. 

One way to do this is to focus on dividend stocks with market-beating yields, combined with low valuations.

Combining low starting valuations with dividends can generate high total returns over time. For this reason, income investors should also incorporate value investing into their process.

The following three stocks all pay dividends, and their expected returns above 10% annually over the next five years make them 3 of the best dividend stocks for May 2026.

Dividend Stocks for May

FactSet Research Systems (FDS)

FactSet Research Systems, a financial data and analytics firm founded in 1978, provides integrated financial information and analytical tools to the investment community in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. The company provides insight and information through research, analytics, trading workflow solutions, content and technology solutions, and wealth management.

On March 31st, 2026, FactSet Research Systems announced Q2 2026 results, reporting non-GAAP EPS of $4.46 for the period, which beat market consensus by $0.08. Revenue grew 7.1% to $611 million. Organic revenue growth held at 6.8%, while Annual Subscription Value (ASV) a key gauge of recurring demand reached roughly $2.45 billion, up 6.7% from a year ago.

Management also raised its full-year outlook, now guiding for revenue between $2.45 billion and $2.47 billion.

FactSet has grown its earnings-per-share with a compound growth rate of 7.2% over the last 10 years. The company’s investments and improved product offerings could lead to significant margin expansion in the following years. We estimate EPS of $17.70 by 2026, matching the midpoint of the analysts’ estimates, and we reaffirm our 8.5% annual earnings growth forecast for the next five years.

FactSet has increased its dividend for 26 consecutive years, making it a Dividend Aristocrat. Shares are currently yielding 2.1%. We estimate total returns above 27% per year for FDS stock.

Becton, Dickinson & Co. (BDX)

Becton, Dickinson & Co. is a global leader in the medical supply industry. The company was founded in 1897 and has 75,000 employees across 190 countries. The company generates about $20 billion in annual revenue, with approximately 43% of revenues coming from outside of the U.S.

On November 6th, 2025, BDX increased its quarterly dividend 1.0% to $1.05, extending the company’s dividend growth streak to 54 consecutive years. BDX is a Dividend King.

BDX also announced results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, which ended December 31st, 2026. For the quarter, revenue improved 1.5% to $5.25 billion, which topped estimates by $100 million. Adjusted earnings-per-share of $2.91 compared unfavorably to $3.43 in the prior year, but this was $0.10 more than expected.

For the quarter, Medical Essentials was down 0.6% on a currency neutral basis to $1.6 billion as gains in U.S. Vascular Access Management and the BDX Vacutainer portfolio were more than offset by order timing in China.

BDX has increased earnings-per-share 5.9% per year over the past decade, and has grown earnings in 7 out of the last 10 years. We now forecast that BDX can grow earnings at a rate of 5% per year through fiscal 2031, down from 8% previously, as this is more in-line with the long-term average.

According to Stock Rover, BDX stock currently yields 2.9%. We estimate total returns of 18% per year over the next five years.

Target Corporation (TGT)

Target is a retail giant that consists of about 1,850 big box stores, which offer general merchandise and food, as well as serving as distribution points for the company’s burgeoning e-commerce business. Target should produce more than $105 billion in total revenue this year. 

Target posted fourth quarter and full-year earnings on March 3rd, 2026, and results were better than expected. The company saw revenue fall 1.5% year-over-year to $30.45 billion for the quarter, which met expectations.

However, earnings came to $2.44 per share on an adjusted basis, which beat estimates by a massive 28 cents. The management team noted advertising revenue was higher, as well as good results in beauty and food & beverage.

Sales were weaker in most of its major categories, however, resulting in the 1.5% drop. Comparable sales were down 2.5%, slightly worse than expected, as transactions fell 2.9% and average ticket rose 0.4%.

The company expects sales to grow at about 2% for this year, reflecting a small increase in comparable sales, new stores, and non-merchandise sales contributing to growth.

Earnings are expected between $7.50 and $8.50 per share on an adjusted basis. Strength in earnings could come from higher sales and operating margins expected to be 20 basis points above fiscal 2026. We expect the company to grow its earnings-per-share by 7% per year over the next five years.

The company also sports an extremely impressive dividend increase streak of 57 years. TGT shares are currently yielding 3.7%. Total returns are expected to reach 12.7% per year over the next five years for TGT stock.

Related Article on Target on Dividend Power

• Target (TGT) Is Still Undervalued

Disclosure: No positions in any stocks mentioned.

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The post 3 Dividend Stocks for May 2026 appeared first on Dividend Power.

At some point, everyone asks the same question: how long will my retirement savings last? It’s a simple question with high stakes and no easy answer. With longer life expectancies, rising living costs, and fewer traditional pension plans, retirement today looks very different from what it did a generation ago.

The good news? You’re not powerless. With the right tools, like a retirement savings calculator, and a clear understanding of benchmarks such as the average retirement savings by age, you can build a plan that gives you both clarity and confidence.

Why Retirement Planning Is Important Now More Than Ever

Planning for retirement isn’t just about setting aside money… it’s about designing the life you want decades from now. Here’s why it matters more than ever:

1. People Are Living Longer

Advancements in healthcare mean many people now spend 20–30 years in retirement. That’s a long time to fund your lifestyle without a steady paycheck. If you underestimate this timeline, you risk running out of money. This is exactly why asking “How long will my retirement savings last?” early on is critical.

2. Rising Cost of Living

Inflation steadily increases the cost of essentials like food, housing, and healthcare. What feels like a comfortable budget today may fall short in the future. Without proper planning, your savings could lose purchasing power over time.

3. Decline of Traditional Pensions

Many employers have shifted away from pension plans, placing the responsibility of retirement savings on individuals. This means your financial future depends largely on your ability to save and invest wisely. Without a decent plan for your retirement, you might have to deal with financial problems later on.

4. Unpredictable Healthcare Costs

Healthcare is often one of the largest expenses in retirement. Without planning, unexpected medical bills can quickly drain your savings. Not that we want to anticipate or expect health issues but these things are unpredictable. Old age comes with a lot of health issues so from minor ones to major hospitalizations, you have to be prepared.

5. Financial Independence and Peace of Mind

Retirement planning isn’t just about survival—it’s about freedom. Having a solid plan allows you to make choices confidently, rather than out of necessity or fear. All of these factors lead back to one essential question: how long will my retirement savings last?

How Long Will My Retirement Savings Last?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The reality is, no formula can perfectly predict the future. However, that doesn’t mean you’re guessing blindly. With the right approach and tools like a retirement savings calculator, you can make informed estimates.

Key Factors That Affect the Longevity of Your Savings

• Total retirement savings
• Annual living expenses
• Withdrawal rate (e.g., the 4% rule)
• Investment returns during retirement
• Inflation rate
• Healthcare and emergency expenses
• Lifestyle choices (travel, hobbies, etc.)

How Spending Impacts Longevity

Imagine two retirees, both with $500,000 in savings:

• Person A spends $20,000 per year
• Person B spends $40,000 per year

Even without factoring in investment growth, Person A’s savings could last roughly twice as long as Person B’s. This simple example shows how spending habits directly influence the answer to how long will my retirement savings last. When you use a retirement savings calculator, you can test scenarios like this and adjust your plan accordingly.

Average Retirement Savings by Age

Understanding the average retirement savings by age can help you gauge whether you’re on track. While these numbers vary depending on income and location, here are general benchmarks:

• In your 20s: $0 – $50,000 (early career stage)
• In your 30s: $50,000 – $200,000 (building momentum)
• In your 40s: $200,000 – $500,000 (peak earning years begin)
• In your 50s: $500,000 – $1,000,000 (catch-up phase)
• In your 60s: $1,000,000+ (pre-retirement stage)

These figures aren’t rules, they’re reference points. Comparing your progress to the average retirement savings by age can help you identify gaps and adjust your strategy early.

Common Mistakes When Preparing for Retirement

Even with good intentions, many people make avoidable mistakes that can significantly impact their future. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make.

1. Underestimating Expenses

Many retirees assume they’ll spend less, but costs like healthcare and leisure often increase. This leads to inaccurate projections when calculating how long will my retirement savings last.

2. Not Using a Retirement Savings Calculator

Without a retirement savings calculator, you’re essentially guessing. This makes it difficult to plan accurately or adjust your strategy over time.

3. Starting Too Late

Delaying retirement savings reduces the power of compounding. The later you start, the more you’ll need to contribute to catch up. So it’s really advisable that whenever you can, start saving up early.

4. Ignoring Inflation

Failing to account for inflation can make your savings appear more sufficient than they actually are. It’s not always easy to know how much inflation there will be but taking it into account, in one way or another, can help you end up with better retirement savings.

5. Overly Conservative or Risky Investments

Being too conservative may limit growth, while taking too much risk can lead to significant losses—both of which affect how long your savings last. When it comes to these things, it’s always best to consult advisors and experts.

Tips to Accurately Save Enough for Your Retirement

Getting retirement right isn’t about perfection, it’s about consistency and informed decisions.

1. Use a Retirement Savings Calculator Regularly

A retirement savings calculator helps you estimate future outcomes based on your current savings, contributions, and expected returns. It allows you to answer how long will my retirement savings last with greater confidence and adjust your plan as needed. If you don’t use one, you risk making decisions based on assumptions rather than data.

2. Start Early and Stay Consistent

The earlier you begin saving, the more you benefit from compound growth. Automate monthly contributions to your retirement account. Otherwise, you’ll need to save significantly more later to achieve the same results.

3. Increase Contributions Over Time

As your income grows, your savings rate should grow too. Increase your contributions annually or after salary raises. If you don’t, your savings may not keep pace with your future needs.

4. Adjust for Inflation

Always factor inflation into your retirement planning. Use realistic inflation assumptions when using a retirement savings calculator so you don’t overestimate or underestimate how far your money will go.

5. Benchmark Against Average Retirement Savings by Age

Comparing your savings to the average retirement savings by age helps you stay on track. Review your savings annually and compare with benchmarks. This helps so you don’t fall behind without realizing it.

Conclusion

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but it ultimately comes down to one key question: how long will my retirement savings last? While there’s no perfect answer, you can get closer to clarity by understanding your spending, using tools like a retirement savings calculator, and comparing your progress to the average retirement savings by age.

The earlier you start—and the more intentional you are—the more control you’ll have over your future. Retirement isn’t just about having enough; it’s about having the freedom to live life on your terms.

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The post How Long Will Your Retirement Savings Last? A Practical Guide to Planning Smarter appeared first on Dividend Power.

The Dividend Aristocrats 2026 are U.S. stocks that have increased their dividend for 25+ years. However, this factor alone does not qualify a stock as a Dividend Aristocrat. To be included on the list, a company must meet five criteria.

• Be a member of the S&P 500 Index
• Have raised the regular dividend per share for at least 25 consecutive years
• Have a market capitalization of at least $3 billion
• Average at least $5 million in daily share trading value for the three months before the rebalancing date
• The minimum number of constituents must be 40 at each rebalancing date. In addition, a particular Global Industry Classification Standard or ‘GICS’ should only result in one sector comprising up to 30% of the index weight.

The Index is updated quarterly in January, April, July, and October.

These stocks are found in the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index. Currently, there are 69 stocks in the Dividend Aristocrats. 

Investors can examine updated, select financial data and the dividend earnings calendar for each stock in the Dividend Aristocrats list in the tables at the end of the article. The most recent dividend increases are also available to search.

Market Update for the Dividend Aristocrats 2026

The Dividend Aristocrats 2026 yields about 2.64%, and the average forward price-to-earnings ratio is approximately 17.75X. The trailing P/E ratio is 25.24X.

The mean market capitalization is roughly $110,280 million, and the median is approximately $40,851 million. The market cap ranges between about $7,413 million and $990,532 million. The total market capitalization is roughly $7,609,835 million.

In 2025, the Dividend Aristocrats provided a total return of 7.28% after a similar positive return in 2024. The price return was 4.55%. This performance was less than the S&P 500 Index in 2025 at 17.88%. 

In the trailing 1-year, the Dividend Aristocrats 2026 returned +13.9% (blue line) compared to +26.4% for the S&P 500 Index (red line), as seen in the chart below. We used Stock Rover* to create this watchlist and chart. Over the trailing 5-years, the Dividend Aristocrats have returned +48.5%, and the S&P 500 Index has returned +78.2%.

Difference Between Dividend Champions and Aristocrats

A Dividend Aristocrat can also be a Dividend Champion but not vice-versa. For instance, Arrow Financial Corporation (AROW) does not meet all the above criteria; thus, it is not a Dividend Aristocrat. However, Arrow has raised the dividend for 31 years, permitting it to be on the Dividend Champions list. As a result, there are more Dividend Champions than Dividend Aristocrats.  

Historical Performance

As a group, the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats have exhibited solid returns with low volatility. For example, the Dividend Aristocrats had annualized total returns of 10.03% over the past decade and a standard deviation of 14.95%. On the other hand, the benchmark (the S&P 500 Index) had annualized total returns of 14.16% and a standard deviation of 15.02%. However, since the pandemic, the mega cap technology stocks have outperformed the Dividend Aristocrats by a large margin resulting in this discrepancy.

Over the past 5-years, the Dividend Aristocrats had an annualized total return of 6.8% with a standard deviation of 15.28%. The benchmark had an annualized total return of 12.06% and a standard deviation of 15.26%.

The table below shows the calendar year’s performance from 2016 to 2025.

Changes to the Dividend Aristocrats in 2026

No changes occurred at the start of the year to the constituents of the list. 

Other Dividend Stock Lists

Note that a company can be a Dividend Aristocrat and a Dividend King. Dividend Kings have raised dividends for at least 50 consecutive years. The other lists of American stocks are below.

• List of Dividend Kings in 2026
• List of Dividend Champions in 2026
• List of Dividend Contenders in 2025
• List of Dividend Challengers in 2025
• Dogs of the Dow in 2026

For Canadian stocks, there is an article

• Canadian Dividend Aristocrats in 2026

For UK stocks, there is an article

• UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats in 2025

Other dividend stock lists

• American Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends
• Canadian Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends

Some Details on the Dividend Aristocrats 2026

The Dividend Aristocrats 2026 is a reasonably select list since there are only 69 companies. This number is out of nearly 6,000 companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ in 2026, indicating a success rate of approximately 1.2%.

Dividend Aristocrats Sector Breakdown

The sector with the highest representation of the Dividend Aristocrats 2026 is Consumer Staples, approximately 23.7%. This point is likely due to these stocks’ relatively stable earnings and cash flow characteristics. In addition, these companies tend to grow profits slowly over time, permitting annual dividend increases. 

Stocks from the Industrials sector have the second-highest representation on the Dividend Aristocrats 2026 at about 21%. This class of stocks tends to have more volatile earnings and cash flows, but many have low payout ratios, allowing them to grow their dividends during recessions and economic downturns. 

The third sector on the list is the Financials sector at 12.2%. These firms are able to raise their dividends because of sound balance sheets and growing top and bottom lines.

These three sectors comprise the majority of the Dividend Aristocrats at 56.9%.

Only Three REITs

Only three Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) exist in the Dividend Aristocrats. These are Essex Property Trust (ESS), Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT), and Realty Income (O). In addition, the list does not include any Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs).  

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Sector Breakdown

The sector breakdown for the Dividend Aristocrats 2026 is seen in the chart below. Because of the composition changes in the S&P 500 Index, the sector composition has changed with time. In addition, the Great Recession caused many previous Dividend Aristocrats to freeze or even cut their dividends. As a result, these primarily financial stocks were dropped from the list of Dividend Aristocrats, affecting the sector composition. 

A few industrial stocks were also dropped from the list at the time. In fact, between 2009 and 2010, nineteen companies were dropped from the list of Dividend Aristocrats.

The sector ranking for the Dividend Aristocrats 2026 is unlike the Canadian Dividend Aristocrats, which have Financials, Industrials, and Real Estate as the top three sectors.

It is also unlike the UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats, with Financials, Real Estate, and Industrials as the top three sectors.

Sector Allocation History

The chart below shows the sector allocation over time. Consumer Staples has consistently maintained its lead over time. The sector allocation changes because of economic events.

For example, the Great Recession caused many previous Dividend Aristocrats to freeze or even cut their dividends. As a result, these primarily financial stocks were dropped from the list of Dividend Aristocrats, affecting the sector composition. A few industrial stocks were also dropped from the list at the time. In fact, between 2009 and 2010, nineteen companies were dropped from the list of Dividend Aristocrats. More recently, some additional industrial and retail firms were removed because of dividend cuts during the COVID-19 pandemic and because of divestments.

Market Size of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats 2026

The largest Dividend Aristocrat by market capitalization is Walmart (WMT), with roughly $1,010 billion market capitalization. The smallest Dividend Aristocrat is Factset Data & Stock Exchanges (FDS), with a $7.708 billion market capitalization. The Dividend Aristocrats have a total market capitalization of over $6 trillion.

The one with the highest forward yield is Amcor (AMCR), and the one with the lowest dividend yield is West Pharmaceuticals (WST). 

Dover Corporation (DOV) is the Dividend Aristocrat with the longest streak of consecutively increasing the dividend at 70 years. It is followed by Genuine Parts Company (GPC), Northwest Natural Holding Company (NWN), and The Procter & Gamble Company (PG)

List of Dividend Aristocrat Stocks in 2026

The Dividend Aristocrat 2026 list serves as a screen for further investigating a stock for a dividend growth portfolio. It is a list of companies with stable businesses that have competitive advantages and have returned cash to shareowners consistently through dividends and, in some cases, buybacks.

Stock Rover* was used to create this table.

Dividend Calendar

This table was created using StockRover*.

Prior Year Lists and Articles

• The List of Dividend Aristocrats 2025
• The List of Dividend Aristocrats 2024
• The List of Dividend Aristocrats 2023
• The List of Dividend Aristocrats 2022
• The List of Dividend Aristocrats 2021
• The List of Dividend Aristocrats in 2020

The post The Dividend Aristocrats 2026: A Must Read Guide appeared first on Dividend Power.

Planning for retirement means understanding how your Social Security retirement benefit works and when to claim it. Many retirees overlook important details such as the minimum Social Security retirement benefit amount and how the Social Security benefit tax may affect their income. Knowing these factors in advance can help you maximize your retirement income and avoid costly mistakes.

So whether you’re close to retirement or planning ahead, understanding how Social Security works can make a significant difference in your long-term financial security. Here are the most important details you can start with.

When Can You Receive Your Maximum Social Security Retirement Benefit?

You can start receiving Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, you will receive your maximum Social Security retirement benefit only when you reach your full retirement age (FRA) or later. Full retirement age depends on your birth year and typically ranges from age 66 to 67.

If you wait beyond your full retirement age, your Social Security retirement benefit increases due to delayed retirement credits. These credits can boost your benefits by about 8% per year until age 70. This means waiting longer may result in significantly higher monthly payments than the minimum Social Security retirement benefit amount available when claiming early.

Consequences of Claiming Early

Claiming benefits early results in permanently reduced payments. This means your Social Security retirement benefit will be lower for the rest of your life. While early claiming may help those who need income sooner, it can also reduce lifetime benefits. In addition, claiming early may impact your taxes and increase your Social Security benefit tax exposure if you continue working or earn additional income.

Social Security Benefits Eligibility and Calculation

To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you must earn at least 40 work credits. Most workers earn credits by working and paying Social Security taxes over time. Once eligible, you can claim benefits based on your earnings history. And even if you qualify for just the minimum Social Security retirement benefit amount, your actual payment may vary depending on your lifetime earnings and retirement age.

How Social Security Benefits Are Calculated

Your Social Security benefits are calculated using your highest 35 years of earnings. These earnings are adjusted for inflation, and the Social Security Administration calculates your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME).

Your Social Security retirement benefit is then determined using a formula applied to your AIME. Higher lifetime earnings typically result in higher benefits, while lower earnings may lead to the minimum social security retirement benefit amount. Understanding how benefits are calculated can also help you plan for potential Social Security benefit tax implications during retirement. There are also free online calculators you can use that are designed to compute your benefits.

What Is a COLA?

A Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is an annual increase applied to Social Security benefits to help keep up with inflation. COLA ensures your Social Security retirement benefit maintains purchasing power over time.

COLA increases are based on inflation data and applied automatically. Increase may vary, but for 2025, this adjustment was 2.5%. This is especially helpful for retirees receiving the minimum Social Security retirement benefit amount, as it helps protect against rising costs.

Social Security for Spouses and Children

Spousal Benefits

Spouses may receive up to 50% of their partner’s full retirement benefit. A spouse can claim benefits as early as age 62, though claiming early reduces the amount received. If the spouse qualifies only for the minimum social security retirement benefit amount, they may still receive spousal benefits based on their partner’s earnings.

Benefits for Children

Children may also qualify for benefits if:

• They are under the age of 18
• Up to age 19 if still in high school
• Disabled before age 22

Eligible children may receive up to 50% of the parent’s social security retirement benefit, subject to family maximum limits.

Social Security Benefits and Taxes

Social Security benefits may be taxable depending on your combined income. The Social Security benefit tax is determined using adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest, or automatically half of your Social Security benefits.

If your combined income exceeds $25,000 for single filers or $32,000 for married people filing jointly, up to 50% of your benefits may be taxed. Now, if income exceeds $34,000 for single filers or $44,000 for married couples, up to 85% of your benefits may be subject to Social Security benefit tax.

How to Reduce Social Security Taxes

Thankfully, there are ways to reduce these taxes. You can reduce your Social Security benefit tax by:

• Delaying benefits
• Managing retirement withdrawals
• Using Roth accounts
• Reducing taxable income

Strategic planning can help protect your Social Security retirement benefit and avoid unnecessary taxation.

Is It Time to Claim Social Security Benefits?

Deciding when to claim your benefits depends on your personal situation, health, and financial needs. And understanding when to claim your Social Security retirement benefit can help maximize your income.

When It’s Okay to Claim Early

Health Concerns – If you have health concerns or a shorter life expectancy, claiming early may help you receive benefits sooner.

Financial Need – If you need income immediately and qualify for the minimum social security retirement benefit amount, claiming early may be necessary.

No Other Retirement Income – If you lack other savings, claiming early may help cover expenses.

Job Loss – Unexpected job loss may make early claiming the best option.

Spousal Strategy – Some couples claim early to coordinate benefits and reduce Social Security benefit tax exposure.

Conclusion

Understanding your Social Security retirement benefit is essential for retirement planning. By knowing your eligibility, benefit calculation, and tax implications, you can make smarter decisions. Pay attention to the minimum Social Security retirement benefit amount, understand COLA adjustments, and plan ahead to minimize Social Security benefit tax. With the right strategy, you can maximize your benefits and create a more secure retirement future.

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The post Social Security Retirement: Things to Know So You Can Maximize Your Benefits appeared first on Dividend Power.

Dividend growth stocks can generate long-term wealth because of the compounding effect and price appreciation. At the start of spring 2026, we discuss three that typically benefit from the warming weather.

We highlight three equities that are market leaders in their categories and have solid long-term growth prospects. We discuss The Coca-Cola Company (KO), EPR Properties (EPR), and Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP) for a dividend portfolio.

Dividend Growth Stocks for Spring 2026

The Coca-Cola Company (KO)

Coca-Cola is the world’s largest beverage company, as it owns or licenses more than 500 unique non-alcoholic brands. Since the company’s founding in 1886, it has spread to more than 200 countries worldwide. Its brands account for about 2 billion servings of beverages worldwide every day, producing about $48 billion in annual revenue. The company also has an exceptional 63-year dividend increase streak, making it a Dividend King. 

Coca-Cola posted fourth-quarter and full-year earnings on February 10th, 2026, and results were mixed. The company saw adjusted earnings per share of 58 cents, which was two cents ahead of estimates. Revenue was up 2.6% year-over-year to $11.8 billion. Organic revenue was up 5%, driven by a 4% gain in concentrate sales and 1% in price and mix. Concentrate sales were 3% better than unit case volume, which was driven by the timing of shipments and one additional selling day. 

Comparable operating margin expanded from 24% of revenue a year ago to 24.4%, which met consensus estimates. Gross margin rose by a similar amount. Free cash flow, adjusted for the Fairlife contingent payout, was $11.4 billion for the full year, which was about $600 million higher than in 2024.

The dividend payout ratio has been in the mid-70% range for the past few years, but is below that now with rising earnings. Dividend growth will remain a priority for management, and we see the payout as safe, with room to grow, particularly with generally improving free cash flow generation.

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EPR Properties (EPR)

EPR Properties is a specialty real estate investment trust, or REIT, that invests in properties in specific market segments that require industry knowledge to operate effectively. It selects properties it believes have strong return potential in Entertainment, Recreation, and Education. Many of its properties benefit greatly from the start of spring and the warmer weather.

The portfolio includes about $7 billion in investments across 300+ locations in 44 states, including over 250 tenants. Total revenue should be in excess of $750 million this year. 

EPR posted fourth-quarter and full-year earnings on February 26th, 2026, and the results were good. FFO-per-share came to $1.30, which was as expected. Revenue was up 3.2% year-over-year to $183 million, beating estimates by $1 million. Rental revenue was up $8 million year-over-year. 

For the year, FFO came to $5.12 per share, up from $4.87 a year ago. Disposition proceeds were $35 million for the quarter and $168 million a year ago. The company also announced, separate from the earnings report, that it is acquiring seven regional amusement parks from Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) for a gross amount of $342 million. This would be the largest acquisition since 2017. 

EPR boosted its dividend by 5% to a new payout of $3.72 annually, its 5th consecutive year of increases, making it a Dividend Challenger. EPR currently yields 7.1%.

Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP)

Molson Coors Beverage Company, previously Molson Coors Brewing Company, was founded in 1873. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest U.S. brewers, with a variety of brands including Coors Light, Molson Canadian, Carling, Blue Moon, Hop Valley, Leinenkugel’s, Crispin Cider, and Miller Lite through a joint venture called MillerCoors. As the warmer weather hits, TAP will benefit from higher consumption of its beverages.

The company has a significant presence outside the U.S. Its international markets include Canada, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Africa. It is the fourth-largest beer company in the world. In January 2025, Molson purchased an 8.5% stake in Fevertree Drinks plc, which made it the 2nd largest shareholder, advancing its Beyond Beer and premiumization strategy by expanding into non-alcoholic drinks. 

On February 18th, 2026, the company announced a 2% increase to the quarterly dividend to $0.48 per share. After October 20th, 2025, Molson Coors eliminated 400 salaried positions through its restructuring program in its Americas business by the end of 2025, which accounted for roughly 9% of its Americas business workforce. 

Molson Coors reported fourth-quarter 2025 results for the period ending December 31st, 2025. For the quarter, the company generated net sales of $2.66 billion, a 2.7% decrease compared to Q4 2024. Net sales declined 5.0% in the Americas, but rose 6.1% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Adjusted EPS fell 6.9% year-over-year to $1.21. The company repurchased $648 million of its shares in 2025.

With several top brands, Molson Coors can pass higher costs on to consumers. The company is also aggressively cutting its headcount in its Americas business and costs in other parts of the business to offset raw material inflation. In addition, Molson Coors is investing in new product categories to generate growth.

TAP currently yields 3.9%.

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• 3 High-Yielding Stocks for March 2026

The post 3 Dividend Growth Stocks for Spring 2026 appeared first on Dividend Power.

When planning your estate or thinking about passing wealth to loved ones, it’s essential to understand the taxes that may apply after death. Many families ask, what is inheritance tax, is there a federal inheritance tax, and how much is inheritance tax before making financial decisions. Understanding these concepts early can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your beneficiaries receive the maximum amount possible.

So, what are these taxes, and are they related? And how will they affect you and your loved ones?

What is Inheritance Tax?

So, what is inheritance tax exactly? Inheritance tax is a tax imposed on individuals who receive money, property, or other assets from someone who has passed away. Unlike the estate tax, which is paid by the estate, the inheritance tax is paid by the beneficiary receiving the assets.

Many beneficiaries want to know how much inheritance tax they will owe before receiving an inheritance. The amount varies depending on several factors:

• The value of the inheritance
• The relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary
• The state where the deceased lived

Another common question is, “Is there a federal inheritance tax? Currently, there is no federal inheritance tax, but some states do impose inheritance taxes. Understanding why it is important to know the tax implications of giving away money or an inheritance can help individuals plan their estates more effectively.

How Is Inheritance Tax Calculated?

Inheritance tax is generally calculated based on:

• Total value of inherited assets
• Applicable exemptions
• Tax rate based on the relationship

These calculations determine how much inheritance tax is owed by beneficiaries. The closer the relationship, the lower the tax rate tends to be.

States That Impose Inheritance Tax

Currently, the following states impose an inheritance tax:

• Pennsylvania
• Nebraska
• Kentucky
• Maryland
• New Jersey

Understanding Inheritance Tax Thresholds

Each state has its own exemptions and thresholds for inheritance tax. These thresholds determine when inheritance tax applies and how much beneficiaries must pay.

Many individuals wonder if there is a federal inheritance tax, but while there is no federal inheritance tax, the federal estate tax may still apply, depending on the size of the estate. This makes it even more important to understand why it is important to know the tax implications of giving away money or an inheritance before transferring wealth. And, of course, understanding these thresholds also helps answer how much inheritance tax is and when it applies.

Pennsylvania

• Spouses: Exempt
• Children: 4.5%
• Siblings: 12%
• Others: 15%

Nebraska

• Immediate relatives: Lower rates
• Remote relatives: Moderate rates
• Non-relatives: Higher rates

Kentucky

• Spouses: Exempt
• Immediate family: Reduced rates
• Others: Higher rates

Maryland

• Close relatives: Often exempt
• Others: Up to 10%

New Jersey

• Immediate family: Exempt
• Others: Varying rates

Are Inheritance Tax, Death Tax, and Estate Tax the Same?

Many people use the term “death tax” interchangeably with inheritance tax or estate tax. However, they are not exactly the same. The term “death tax” gained popularity in the 1990s during political debates over estate tax policies. It refers broadly to taxes imposed after death, including inheritance tax and estate tax. Estate tax applies to the estate itself, while inheritance tax applies to beneficiaries.

Who Charges Death Taxes?

Death taxes may be charged by the Federal government, specifically for the estate tax, while the State government has the authority to handle anything about estate and inheritance taxes. Below are the states that impose the estate tax. Each state has different thresholds that determine how much inheritance tax or estate tax may apply.

States That Impose State Estate Tax

• Washington
• Oregon
• Minnesota
• Illinois
• New York
• Vermont
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut
• Hawaii
• Maryland
• Washington, D.C.

How to Reduce or Avoid Inheritance Tax

While taxes are not the favorite subject of most people, the good news is that there are ways to reduce or even avoid them totally. Here are some strategies:

Gift Assets During Your Lifetime – Gifting assets before death may reduce the taxable estate and potentially lower inheritance tax obligations.

Set Up Trusts – Trusts can help control asset distribution and minimize tax exposure.

Leave Assets to Exempt Beneficiaries – Spouses and close family members often qualify for exemptions.

Use Life Insurance Strategically – Life insurance payouts can help beneficiaries cover taxes.

Filing Inheritance Tax Returns

Beneficiaries may need to file inheritance tax returns depending on their state laws, the value of the inheritance, and the relationship with the deceased. First step is, of course, to determine whether or not tax applies. If it does, review the laws in your state or the state where the deceased once lived, and make sure that whenever mentioned, focus on your relationship to the deceased. File the specific state inheritance tax return and make sure that if there is any income earned from the assets after death, such as dividends or interest, you report this on your federal income tax return. As the beneficiary, it’s your responsibility to calculate how much the inheritance tax is and to prepare financially.

Conclusion

Understanding inheritance tax, estate tax, and death tax is essential for protecting your wealth. By planning ahead, using trusts, and understanding tax thresholds, individuals can reduce financial burdens and ensure their beneficiaries receive more of their inheritance. And while there’s not always a way to avoid these taxes, doing your research or consulting an expert is a great way to find ways to reduce them.

Related Articles on Dividend Power

• Is It Worth Living In These No Income Tax States?
• What Are Property Taxes? Owner’s Guide to Tax Management

The post What are Inheritance Tax, Death Tax, and Estate Tax? And Why Should You Care? appeared first on Dividend Power.

This article provides an updated list of the Dividend Kings in 2026, select financial data, and analysis. The list and data are updated monthly.

The Dividend Kings in 2026 are stocks on United States stock exchanges that have increased their dividends for at least 50 consecutive years. To attain the 50-year mark is not easy; the list of Dividend Kings is very select. Only 54 companies on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ have done so. This number is out of nearly 6,000 companies listed on the NYSE and NASDAQ, indicating a success rate of approximately 0.9%. It is also seven more than in 2025.

The number of Dividend Kings increases slightly to 55 if we include over-the-counter (OTC) stocks. The total universe of U.S. stocks also goes up to about 12,000, indicating an even lower success rate of about 0.45% for companies to achieve Dividend King status. A few lists include even more equities on the list because of spinoffs and Canadian stocks, but we exclude them here. Also, a few discrepancies exist for the Dividend Kings list; we discuss those below.

Market Update for the 2026 Dividend Kings

The Dividend Kings are currently trading at an elevated valuation of a trailing average price-to-earnings ratio of about 23.11X. This multiple is down from its peak of more than 31X in May 2021.

The current average dividend yield is about 2.69%. The average trailing 10-year dividend growth rate is about 6.08%, and the average past 5-year growth rate is around 5.97%. The mean payout ratio is approximately 59.17%. The average market cap is currently $81,139 million. 

Currently, the Dividend King with the highest yield is Altria (MO) at about 6.1%, and the one trading with the lowest earnings multiple in the trailing twelve months (“TTM”) is Cincinnati Financial (CINF), while it is ABM Industries (ABM) on a forward basis.

The updated, selected financial data and dividend earnings calendars for each stock on the Dividend Kings list are in the tables below. The most recent dividend increases are also available to search.

According to Stock Rover*, over the trailing 1-year period, the Dividend Kings have returned +11.7% (blue line) compared to +32.9% for the S&P 500 Index benchmark (red line), as seen in the chart below. Over the trailing 5-years, the Dividend Kings have returned +32.7%, while the S&P 500 Index has returned +87.4%.

Source: Stock Rover*

List of Dividend Kings in 2026

Stock Rover* was used to create this table.

Dividend Calendar for the Dividend Kings 2026

Stock Rover* was used to create this table.

Why are the Dividend Kings Important?

The Dividend Kings are successful companies. They have survived periods of inflation, stock market crashes, global crises, and deep recessions. In the past 50+ years, their dividends have survived seven recessions: the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Soviet Union, 9/11 in 2001, the dot-com bust, the Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2026 Dividend Kings may not have grown revenue and earnings per share yearly, but they raised the dividend without fail. This length of time points to the durability of their businesses and the sustainability of their dividends. This fact is essential for investors seeking to produce passive income for retirement or build wealth. Moreover, dividends are vital since they are a significant component of total returns.

Despite some close calls, no Dividend King has cut or suspended its dividend due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, 2024 was a far worse year because of rising interest rates, poor business decisions, and a changing economic landscape. In 2024, three companies fell off the list, the most since we started tracking the Kings, including 3M Company (MMM), Leggett & Platt (LEG), and Telephone Data Systems (TDS). Of these three, 3M was the most surprising because of its 66-year streak at the time.

Reportedly, before 2024, the last Dividend King to leave the dividend constant and fall off the list was Diebold in 2014, now known as Diebold Nixdorf (DDB). The company eventually cut the dividend. Before Diebold, AON plc (AON) was removed from the list in 2003. A few companies have fallen off the list because another company acquired them.

Nevertheless, the persistence of the dividend for the Dividend Kings demonstrates these companies’ success and their ability to return cash to shareholders through dividends.

Additions to the Dividend Kings in 2025

In 2025, Automatic Data Processing (ADP), Pentair (PNR), RLI (RLI), and United Bankshares (UBSI) were added to the list of Dividend Kings.

Automatic Data Processing is a large payroll and human resources outsourcing firm.

Pentair is a manufacturer of pumps, filtration systems, and other water handling products.

RLI is an insurance holding company that provides property, casualty, and surety insurance products.

United Bancshares is a small community, commercial, and mortgage bank with branches in the mid-Atlantic and Southeast.

Deletions to the Dividend Kings in 2025

No stocks were removed from the Dividend Kings list in 2025.

Other Dividend Stock Lists

I have also written articles with several other lists and analyses on US dividend growth stocks, including:

• List of Dividend Aristocrats in 2026
• List of Dividend Champions in 2026
• List of Dividend Contenders in 2025
• List of Dividend Challengers in 2025
• Dogs of the Dow in 2026

For Canadian stocks, I have written about

• Canadian Dividend Aristocrats in 2026

For UK stocks, I have written about

• UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats in 2025

Other dividend stock lists

• American Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends
• Canadian Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends

FAQs About the 2026 Dividend Kings

Water Utilities Have a Major Presence

The longest track record as a Dividend King is American States Water Company (AWR), with a 70-year history of dividend increases. There were four water utilities on this list at the start of 2019. However, Connecticut Water Service (CTWS) was acquired by SJW Corp (SJW) in 2019. This acquisition reduced the number to three: American States Water, California Water Service Group (CWT), and SJW Group (SJW). In addition, Northwest Natural Holding Company (NWN) is a multi-utility with a water subsidiary. Middlesex Water may also be on the list, but we exclude it for now.

Not surprisingly, water utilities are highly represented on this list. They provide an essential product for consumers and industries. The business does not grow fast, but it grows as the population increases. The market and dividend growth investors have broadly recognized this point now, and water utilities often trade at elevated valuations while exhibiting low volatility. 

Related Articles About Water Utilities on Dividend Power

• Invest in Water Stocks

Only One REIT on the Dividend Kings 2026 List

Only one real estate investment trust (REIT) is on the list, Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT). The firm is a shopping center REIT that operates in eight metropolitan areas. 

In addition, no master limited partnerships (MLPs) exist on the list.

Related Articles About Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRT) on Dividend Power

• Federal Realty (FRT): A Dividend King REIT
• Best REITs for Safe Income

Relationship to the Dividend Aristocrats

Many companies from the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats list are on the 2026 Dividend Kings list. A Dividend Aristocrat is a company that has raised its dividend for at least 25 consecutive years. However, a company doesn’t need to be a Dividend Aristocrat to be a Dividend King.

Market Capitalization of the 2026 Dividend Kings

Interestingly, the list is not dominated by large-cap companies but includes quite a few mid-cap companies ($2 billion – $10 billion) and small-cap companies ($300 million – $2 billion). 

The largest company by market capitalization on the Dividend Kings list is Walmart (WMT), with a market cap of about $954 billion. It was Johnson & Johnson for many years, but divestments and a declining share price have reduced its market capitalization. Conversely, the smallest company on the Dividend Kings list by market capitalization is Gorman-Rupp (GRC), with a market cap of about $967 million.

Lastly, one over-the-counter stock could be on the Dividend Kings list: Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (FMCB). It is smaller than Gorman Rupp.

What Do I Like About the Dividend Kings?

The Dividend King list in 2026 serves as a screen for further investigating a stock for a dividend growth portfolio. It lists companies with stable businesses and competitive advantages that have consistently returned cash to shareholders through dividends for an extended period. As a dividend growth investor, this is a place to start.

Some investors ask, “What’s the big deal about the Dividend Kings?” It measures success and diligence in returning cash to shareholders through dividends. These companies are not the highest-growth ones, but they grow over time. Moreover, the management teams are committed to paying dividends, a significant component of projected investor returns.

In addition, the Dividend Kings list changes only very slowly. On average, there are a few additions each year. However, the Dividend Kings exhibit persistence. Once a company is on the list, it tends to stay on it. This fact is probably due to the effort by each company’s management to maintain the dividend.

Are Companies Ever Deleted from the Dividend Kings List?

Sometimes, companies are deleted from the Dividend Kings list due to mergers and acquisitions. For instance, Vectren and Connecticut Water Service were removed in 2019 after being acquired. CenterPoint Energy (CNP) acquired Vectren, and SJW Group (SJW), another Dividend King, acquired Connecticut Water Service.

However, some companies do fall off the list for not raising the dividend or, even worse, for cutting or suspending it. In the past, this has included Winn-Dixie (WINN), Ohio Casualty Corp (eventually acquired), Aon plc (AON), Integrys Energy Group (TEG), Masco (MAS), and Diebold (DBD, which went into restructuring and emerged in August 2023), 3M Company, Leggett & Platt, and Telephone and Data Systems.

Readers can learn more on the Dividend Growth Investor blog about the evolution of the Dividend Kings list over the years. However, most of these companies generally had several years of operational difficulties or high leverage. Eventually, this led to a dividend freeze or cut and to the subsequent removal from the list. The bottom line is that earnings per share (EPS) and free cash flow (FCF) must grow over time for a company to become a Dividend King.

Dividend Kings Historical Performance

In absolute terms, the Dividend Kings have had a solid performance. The Dividend Kings have outperformed the S&P 500 Index, with lower volatility over the 20 years from 1999 to 2019. During this time, the 29 Dividend Kings had a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 24.7%, compared with 22.9% for the S&P 500 Index. The internal rate of return, or IRR, is about 11.6% for the Dividend Kings and roughly 9.2% for the S&P 500.

There are three reasons for this. First, the Dividend Kings have fewer years with negative returns. The Dividend Kings had only two down years during this period, while the S&P 500 had four down years. 

Next, the S&P 500 Index’s worst down years were much worse than those of the Dividend Kings. The worst year for the Dividend Kings was only -17.62%, while the worst year for the S&P 500 Index was a whopping -36.81%, or more than double that of the Dividend Kings. The S&P 500 could not make this up in the best year. 

Lastly, the Dividend Kings outperformed the S&P 500 in 12 out of 20 years. For more details, read the Dividend Kings versus the S&P 500.

Furthermore, the Dividend Kings experienced lower volatility than the S&P 500 Index during the period analyzed. The standard deviation of returns was about 12.5% for the Dividend Kings versus roughly 14.4% for the S&P 500 Index. The combination of higher returns and lower standard deviation results in a Sharpe ratio of 0.74 for the Dividend Kings versus 0.39 for the S&P 500 Index, based on monthly returns and a 1-month U.S. Treasury bill. This fact indicates that the Dividend Kings have higher risk-adjusted performance than the S&P 500 Index.

In some stretches, the Dividend Kings have underperformed the S&P 500. This fact can be attributed to the long bull market and the outperformance of the S&P 500 Index and tech stocks from 2023 to 2025. However, during down years, the Dividend Kings tend to outperform the S&P 500 Index, as observed during the 2022 bear market.

Discrepancies in the 2026 Dividend Kings

There are multiple discrepancies on the Dividend Kings 2026 list. Target (TGT), Illinois Tool Works (ITW), Altria (MO), Tootsie Roll Industries (TR), Sysco (SYY), Abbott Laboratories (ABT), AbbVie (ABBV), Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (FMBC), and Middlesex Water (MSEX) regarding the number of years that they have paid a growing dividend or whether they are on the list or not.

Target

According to its website, Target has paid a growing annual dividend for at least 50 years. From 1970 to 1971, Target paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.0104 per share. In 1972, the company raised the dividend to $0.0108. Based on this information, Target has increased its annual dividend for 53 years. However, some lists and websites show Target raising dividends for 57 years. A stock split may cause this discrepancy. Target initiated dividend payments at the end of 1967 and has paid dividends for 57 consecutive years. There was a 2:1 stock split in 1969, which may confuse the issue. However, Target is now clearly on the Dividend Kings list.

Illinois Tool Works

The second discrepancy is for Illinois Tool Works (ITW). The company has paid a growing dividend for at least 51 years. However, the company has claimed a more extended period, and some websites also show a 62-year dividend history. I refer to the excellent research by Dividend Growth Investor, who determined that ITW did not raise its dividend in 1971. The company acknowledged this in its 2019 ITW Annual Report, stating, “ITW’s annual dividend payment has increased for more than 56 consecutive years, except during a period of government controls in 1971.” ITW resumed increasing its dividend in 1972. However, ITW is now clearly on the Dividend Kings list.

Altria

Altria Group (MO)is the third stock with a discrepancy. The company was part of Philip Morris (PM) and was separated in 2008. The dividend was cut, but the combined dividend was reportedly the same as before the split. However, due to the divestment and dividend reduction, some datasets report Altria with only 17 years of dividend growth, rather than 55.

Related Articles About Altria (MO) on Dividend Power

• Altria (MO) – A Dividend King to Own

Tootsie Roll

The fourth discrepancy is Tootsie Roll Industries (TR). Tootsie Roll periodically increases its regular annual cash dividend. However, the stock does not have at least 50 consecutive increases in the yearly dividend. So why do some lists include Tootsie Roll as a Dividend King? The company also pays a 3% stock dividend annually, recorded as a 103-to-100 stock split. This split results in an adjustment to past dividends each year and increases the cash paid to shareholders annually. Again, however, Tootsie Roll is on the Dividend Kings list.

Sysco

The fifth discrepancy is Sysco (SYY). Sysco claims to have raised dividends for over 50 consecutive years in its press releases. In addition, several datasets state that Sysco has increased its dividend for 56 years. However, their investor relations website shows the dividend was held constant from 1975 to 1976. Sysco will remain on the list until further clarification is provided.

Abbott and AbbVie

The following discrepancy is Abbott Laboratories (ABT). AbbVie (ABBV) was spun off from Abbott in 2013 due to patent expirations and the capital requirements of a large R&D-focused pharma company. The total dividend never declined, but each company’s dividend was lower than before the separation. However, due to the divestment and dividend reduction, some datasets report Abbott with only 14 years of dividend growth, rather than 55. Similarly, some lists include AbbVie, but we do not.

Related Articles About Abbott and AbbVie on Dividend Power

• AbbVie (ABBV): An Undervalued Dividend Aristocrat
• AbbVie (ABBV): Dividend Safety Is Pressured by Humira

Farmers & Merchants Bancorp

The following discrepancy is with Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (FMBC). The bank has raised the dividend for more than 50 years in a row. However, the bank trades over the counter and is only very thinly traded. This fact means more significant risks for small investors. It also means the stock is not in some datasets based on the NYSE and NASDAQ. However, we have included this bank from the Dividend Kings list because of its long history.

Middlesex Water

Middlesex Water may have increased the dividend for 50+ consecutive years. The water utility states on its website that it has a 53-year streak of increases. However, most datasets give it a 23-year streak. Two stock splits in a short time may be confusing the matter. Middlesex Water split its shares in 2002 and in 2003.

Gorman-Rupp

The next discrepancy is Gorman-Rupp, the pump manufacturer. Its investor slide deck shows 53 consecutive years of increasing cash dividends. However, most investing sites give it credit for 12 or 20 years. Some sites show a constant dividend for 2012 and 2013, while others show a lower dividend in 2004 than in 2003. We have included it on the list.

Who’s On Deck?

Multiple Dividend Champions have raised their dividend for 49 years. This list includes McDonald’s (MCD), MGE Energy (MGE), and Sonoco Products (SON).

Prior Year Lists and Articles

• List of Dividend Kings in 2025
• List of Dividend Kings in 2024
• List of Dividend Kings in 2023
• List of Dividend Kings in 2022
• List of Dividend Kings in 2021
• List of Dividend Kings in 2020
• List of Dividend Kings in 2019

• 3 Worst Performing Dividend Kings in 2025
• 3 Worst Performing Dividend Kings in 2024
• 3 Worst Performing Dividend Kings in 2023
• 3 Worst Performing Dividend Kings in 2022
• 3 Worst Performing Dividend King Stocks in 2021
• 3 Worst Performing Dividend King Stocks in 2020

The post The 2026 Dividend Kings: A Complete List and Analysis appeared first on Dividend Power.

This article provides an updated list of the Dividend Champions in 2026, select financial data, and analysis. The list and data are updated monthly.

The Dividend Champions 2026 companies on United States stock exchanges have raised their dividend for 25+ consecutive years. This list is a select list of only 154 companies. This number is from nearly 6,000 companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ in 2026, indicating a success rate of approximately 2.57%.

This list is not one of the best or top Dividend Champions. Instead, it is an informational source to assist in making investment decisions. Lastly, the Dividend Champions list was first created in 2008 by David Fish (deceased in 2018). He originally started the list in the Dividend Investing Resource Center.

Market Update for the 2026 Dividend Champions

The Dividend Champions 2026 are currently trading at an elevated valuation of a trailing average price-to-earnings ratio of about 24.12X. This multiple is down from its peak of more than 31X in May 2021. The forward P/E ratio is more reasonable at 17.38 times earnings.

The current average dividend yield is about 2.67%. The average trailing 10-year dividend growth rate is about 6.29%, and the average past 5-year dividend growth rate is around 6.26%. On average, the payout ratio is approximately54.25%. The mean market cap is currently $59,248 million. 

Currently, the Dividend Champion with the highest yield is Universal Health Realty (UHT), the one trading with the lowest trailing earnings multiple is RenaissanceRe Holdings (RNR), and the one with the lowest forward earnings multiple is Novo Nordisk (NVO).

The updated, selected financial data and the dividend earnings calendar for each stock in the Dividend Champions list are in the tables below. The most recent dividend increases are also available to search.

According to Stock Rover*, in the trailing 1-year, the Dividend Champions 2026 have returned +23.3% (blue line) compared to +32.2% for the S&P 500 Index (red line), as seen in the chart below. Over the trailing 5-years, this group of stocks has returned +54.6%, and the S&P 500 has returned +78.7%.

List of Dividend Champions in 2026

Stock Rover* was used to create this table. Sign up to gain access to data, charts, and screeners.

Dividend Calendar for the Dividend Champions 2026

Stock Rover* was used to create this table. Sign up to track your dividends and income.

Promotions to Dividend Kings in 2025

In 2025, Automatic Data Processing (ADP), Pentair (PNR), RLI (RLI), and United Bankshares (UBSI) were added to the list of Dividend Kings.

Additions to the Dividend Champions in 2025

In 2025, Cass Information Systems (CASS), Somerset Trust Holdings (SOME), and TC Energy (TRP) were added to the list of Dividend Champions.

Cass Information Systems is a payment and information processing company for manufacturing, distribution, and retail businesses.

Somerset Trust Holdings is a small bank holding company in Pennsylvania.

TC Energy is a Canadian energy company that owns and operates pipelines, LNG terminals, gas storage facilities, and power generation facilities.

Deletions to the Dividend Champions in 2025

In 2025, no Dividend Champions fell off the list because of dividend cuts or freezes.

Other Dividend Stock Lists

The other U.S. stock lists are:

• Dividend Kings in 2026
• Dividend Aristocrats in 2025
• Dividend Contenders in 2025
• Dividend Challengers in 2025
• Dogs of the Dow in 2026

For Canadian stocks, we have an article on

• Canadian Dividend Aristocrats in 2026

For UK stocks, we have an article on

• UK High Yield Dividend Aristocrats in 2025

Other dividend stock lists

• Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends
• Canadian Stocks Paying 100+ Years of Dividends

FAQs About the 2026 Dividend Champions

What do I like About the Dividend Champions 2026?

The Dividend Champions 2026 list is a screen for further investigating stocks for a dividend growth portfolio. It is a list of companies with stable businesses that have competitive advantages and have returned cash to shareholders consistently through dividends and, in some cases, buybacks over an extended period.

Over-The-Counter Stocks Increase the Number

The number of Dividend Champions increases if we include over-the-counter (OTC) stocks. As a result, the total universe of U.S. stocks goes up to about 12,000. We have added many of these stocks to our list in 2026, increasing the number of Dividend Champions by about 20 from earlier years.

In addition, the list changes slowly. However, even during extreme economic duress, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, only a handful of companies dropped off the list each year. This fact points to the resiliency of the businesses on the Dividend Champions 2026 list and management’s commitment to the dividend.

What are the Differences Between the Dividend Champions and Dividend Aristocrats

The Dividend Champion 2026 list is broader and more comprehensive than the Dividend Aristocrat list. A stock must only meet the requirement for raising the dividend for 25+ years to be added to the Dividend Champions List. However, the criteria for inclusion as a Dividend Aristocrat are stricter. In addition to the 25+ years of dividend increases, a stock must be a part of the S&P 500 Index, have a minimum market capitalization of $3 billion, and meet trading volume and sector weighting requirements.

Hence, a stock can be a Dividend Champion but not a Dividend Aristocrat.

What are the Differences Between Dividend Champions and Dividend Kings

The Dividend Kings are more exclusive than the Dividend Champions. To become a Dividend King, a stock must raise its dividend for 50+ consecutive years, a much harder achievement. However, a company can be a Dividend King, a Dividend Champion, and a Dividend Aristocrat. For instance, The Coca-Cola Company (KO) is found on all three lists. 

Two MLPs and Six REITs Are on the Dividend Champions 2026 List

The 2026 Dividend Champions list contains many banks, utilities, consumer defensive, and industrial companies. 

The list includes three Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs): Enbridge (ENB), Enterprise Products Partners (EPD), and TC Energy (TRP).

The Dividend Champions list has five Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Essex Property Trust (ESS), Federal Realty Investment (FRT), National Retail Properties (NNN), Realty Income (O), and Universal Health Realty (UHT).

In addition, W.P. Carey will fall off the list in 2026 because it reduced the quarterly payout.

Related Articles About REITs on Dividend Power

• Essex Property Trust (ESS): Undervalued REIT
• Best REITs for Safe Income
• Federal Realty (FRT): A Dividend King REIT
• 3 Dividend Aristocrat REITs

What is the Sector and Industry Breakdown?

Companies from the Financial sector have the most significant representation on the Dividend Champions 2026 list, with 42 companies, followed by the Industrial sector, with 30 companies. The Consumer Defensive sector has 22, and the Utilities sector has 16 Companies. The lowest representation is from the Communications Services sector, with one company.

Financials tend to have stable and generally rising earnings over time. There are 29 regional banks, six insurance companies, three asset managers, and two financial data & stock exchange companies on the list of Dividend Champions. Regional banks are often conservative; they have room to expand, allowing for earnings per share and dividend growth. Insurance and asset manager companies have sticky customers and grow with time.

Industrial companies tend to have somewhat more volatile earnings and cash flows, but many have conservative payout ratios, allowing them to grow dividends during recessions and economic downturns. The list includes 13 specialty industrial machinery companies, two aerospace & defense companies, one conglomerate, as well as others.

Consumer Defensive companies tend to have predictable earnings and cash flows that grow slowly with time. Many did well during the COVID-19 pandemic. Larger companies in this sector tend to acquire smaller ones, leading to industry consolidation. Seven household & personal products companies and four packaged food companies are on the list, including several well-known ones.

Market Size of the Dividend Champions 2026

Large-cap companies do not dominate the list, which includes quite a few mid-cap ($2 billion – $10 billion) and small-cap ($300 million – $2 billion) companies.

Walmart (WMT) is the largest dividend champion by market capitalization, and Andover Bancorp (ANDC) is the smallest.

Who’s On Deck?

At the start of the year, several companies on the Dividend Contender List have raised the dividend for 24 years. This number includes L3 Harris Technologies (LHX), Nike (NKE), Royal Gold (RGLD), and Southern (SO). These stocks will become Dividend Champions, assuming they raise their dividend in 2026.

Prior Year Lists and Articles

• List of Dividend Champions in 2025
• List of Dividend Champions in 2024
• List of Dividend Champions in 2023
• List of Dividend Champions in 2022
• List of Dividend Champions in 2021
• List of Dividend Champions in 2020
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Compounding is one of the most powerful forces in long-term wealth creation, and it plays a central role in dividend growth investing. If you’re wondering, how can compounding increase your investment’s growth? You’re in the right place. We’ll also discuss why and how understanding compounding in dividend growth investing can dramatically change the way investors approach income, reinvestment, and portfolio building over time.

To fully appreciate the long-term benefits of disciplined investing, it is first important to understand what compounding really means.

But First, What Exactly is Compounding?

At its core, compounding refers to the process in which your investment returns begin to generate their own returns. Instead of earning growth only on your original investment, you earn growth on both your initial capital and the returns that have already accumulated. This answers a fundamental investor question: How can compounding increase your investment’s growth over long periods?

In practical terms, compounding transforms small, consistent returns into meaningful long-term outcomes, which is why it is a foundational principle of dividend growth investing.

Increasing compounding periods means that returns are calculated and reinvested more frequently. The more often your earnings are reinvested—monthly, quarterly, or annually—the more opportunities your capital has to generate additional returns. This increase in reinvestment frequency enhances the effect of compounding and helps illustrate again how compounding can increase your investment’s growth through time, consistency, and patience.

The Role of Compounding in Dividend Growth Investing

Dividend investing focuses on building a portfolio of companies that regularly distribute a portion of their profits to shareholders in the form of dividends. In practice, this approach emphasizes stable income, financial strength, and long-term performance, making it a natural fit for dividend growth investing. Essentially, dividend investing means ownership in established companies such as:

• The Coca-Cola Company
• Procter & Gamble
• Johnson & Johnson

Reinvesting dividends is essential for compounding growth because every dividend payment becomes new capital that can purchase additional shares. Those additional shares then generate future dividends, creating a continuous cycle of reinvestment. This process lies at the heart of compounding in dividend growth investing and demonstrates clearly how compounding can increase your investment’s growth when dividends are not withdrawn but reinvested consistently.

Difference Between Simple Interest and Compound Interest in Dividend Growth Investing

Understanding how returns are calculated is essential for anyone pursuing long-term wealth through dividend growth investing. Investors often ask, how can compounding increase your investment’s growth? And what makes reinvested income so powerful over time?

Let’s explore how simple interest and compound interest differ, when each may be appropriate, and how they directly support better decision-making for long-term investors.

The key difference between simple interest and compound interest lies in how returns are calculated and accumulated.

Simple Interest

Simple interest is calculated only on the original amount invested. For example, if you invest a fixed sum and earn a flat percentage each year, your earnings remain the same year after year because the return is always based on the original principal. This approach may be suitable for short-term savings goals, predictable cash-flow needs, or low-risk instruments where growth is not the primary objective.

Compound Interest

Compound interest, by contrast, is calculated on both the original investment and all previously earned returns. Each new period builds upon a larger base, allowing growth to accelerate over time. This means that every reinvested return becomes part of the capital that generates future returns.

From a long-term perspective, compound interest is generally better for wealth accumulation, especially when paired with dividend growth investing. In this strategy, dividends are reinvested rather than withdrawn, allowing investors to benefit from both increasing share ownership and rising income over time. This dynamic forms the foundation of compounding in dividend growth investing, where both capital appreciation and income generation reinforce one another.

However, simple interest can still be useful in situations where stability and predictability matter more than long-term growth. For example, conservative investors or short-term savers may prefer simple interest instruments when their goal is capital preservation rather than portfolio expansion.

In summary, simple interest favors short-term clarity, while compound interest favors long-term expansion. For most income-focused equity investors, compounding in dividend growth investing offers a far more effective path toward sustainable portfolio growth.

Examples of Compounding in Dividend Growth Investing

One common example occurs when an investor automatically reinvests all dividend payments into additional shares of the same company. Over time, those new shares begin producing their own dividends, increasing future reinvestment capacity. This directly demonstrates how compounding can increase your investment’s growth by turning income into new productive assets.

Another example involves holding dividend-paying stocks for long periods while companies gradually raise their payouts. As dividend rates increase and the number of shares owned also grows, investors experience a dual compounding effect.

A third example is the use of dividend reinvestment plans within tax-advantaged accounts. By reinvesting income without interruption, investors keep earnings fully invested, reinforcing the long-term benefits of dividend-growth investing.

Across all these examples, the principle remains the same: disciplined reinvestment and long-term holding clearly show how compounding can increase your investment’s growth and why compounding in dividend growth investing is a powerful driver of long-term financial success.

What is the Rule of 72?

The Rule of 72 is a simple formula used to estimate how long it will take for an investment to double in value. You divide 72 by your expected annual rate of return to estimate the number of years required for your money to double. This concept is directly connected to compounding in dividend growth investing because it highlights the practical impact of reinvested returns. When dividends are reinvested, and companies consistently increase their payouts, investors accelerate the rate at which their portfolios grow.

Final Thoughts about Dividend Growth Investing

The true beauty of compounding in dividend growth investing lies in its ability to transform steady dividend payments into long-term wealth through disciplined reinvestment. When applied correctly, dividend growth investing allows you to benefit not only from rising dividend income but also from the expanding base of shares that generate that income.

Starting early is critical. The earlier you begin practicing dividend growth investing, the more time compounding has to work its magic.

Before committing to major investment decisions, it’s best to seek professional guidance, continue learning about compounding in dividend growth investing, and consult qualified financial experts who can provide tailored advice and education aligned with their long-term financial goals.

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The average dividend yield in the S&P 500 Index remains low at 1.1%. As a result, income investors largely have to settle for less dividend income when buying stocks. However, there are still quality companies with high dividend yields well above the market average.

Investors do not have to sacrifice income when it comes to quality dividend payers with competitive advantages and long-term growth potential. This article will highlight three stocks that could be attractive for income investors due to their high dividend yields.

All 3 stocks have yields above 5%, compared with the S&P 500’s average yield of 1.2%.

High-Yielding Stocks

HP Inc. (HPQ)

HP Inc. has centered its business activities around two main segments: its product portfolio of printers and its range of so-called personal systems, which includes computers and mobile devices. 

HP reported its fourth quarter (fiscal 2025) results on November 25. The company reported revenue of $14.6 billion for the quarter, which beat the analyst consensus estimate by a solid $150 million, and which was up 4% from the previous year’s quarter. 

This was a bit better than the performance of the company during the previous quarter, when revenues had grown at a slightly slower rate. Non-GAAP earnings-per-share totaled $0.93 during the fourth quarter, which was just ahead of the analyst consensus estimate. 

HP Inc. saw its operating margin decline over the last year. The company currently forecasts adjusted earnings per share in a range of $0.73 to $0.81 for the first quarter of the current fiscal year, which would mean a weaker result versus the most recent quarter. 

For the current year, HP is expected to generate earnings per share of around $3.05, with management forecasting free cash flow at around $2.8 billion.

Over the last decade, HP’s earnings per share rose thanks to a combination of growing net earnings and a declining share count, although the ~8% growth rate since 2016 will likely not be replicated forever. HP is a leader in the printing and personal computing markets, but these are areas that face challenges as consumers continue to prioritize mobile devices. 

The adoption of 3D printing could help, as HP is already entrenched in this industry, but so far, the majority of profits are generated by traditional printers and printing products. Even without any meaningful business growth, corporations can still generate growth on a per-share basis using shareholder return programs, and we believe that buybacks will remain a key growth factor for HP in the future.

HP has increased its dividend for 15 consecutive years and currently yields 6.4%. The stock is also a Dividend Contender.

Kimberly-Clark Corp. (KMB)

The Kimberly-Clark Corporation is a global consumer products company that operates in 175 countries and sells disposable consumer goods, including paper towels, diapers, and tissues. It operates through two segments that each house many popular brands: Personal Care Segment (Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex, Depend, Poise) and the Consumer Tissue segment (Kleenex, Scott, Cottonelle, and Viva), generating about $20 billion in annual revenue. 

Kimberly-Clark posted fourth quarter and full-year earnings on January 27th, 2026, and results were mixed. Sales fell 0.5% year-over-year to $4.1 billion as organic sales growth of 2.1% was offset by a 2.5% decline resulting from the exit of the company’s private label diaper business in the US. 

Organic sales growth was driven by volume and mix growth of 3%, partially offset by a 1.1% pricing headwind. Adjusted gross margin was 37% of sales, in line with the year-ago period. Adjusted earnings-per-share came in at $1.86, which was up from $1.50 a year ago and a nickel ahead of estimates. 

Management noted the merger with Kenvue was overwhelmingly approved by shareholders of both companies, and that it is expected to close in the second half of this year. 

Kimberly-Clark’s competitive advantage is in its longstanding dominance with a variety of its brands, which are well known in the marketplace. It should also perform well during recessions as most of its products are consumable staples, which was evidenced during the COVID recession.

The dividend was also boosted to $5.12 per share annually from $5.04 previously. That is the 54th consecutive year of dividend increases for the company. KMB currently yields 5.0%. The equity is a Dividend King.

H&R Block (HRB)

H&R Block, Inc. is a U.S.-based tax preparation and financial services company founded in 1955 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. The firm provides assisted and do-it-yourself tax return preparation services through its extensive network of approximately 9,000 retail offices, online platforms, and mobile applications, serving individual taxpayers as well as small-business clients across the United States, Canada, and Australia. 

Beyond core tax filing services, H&R Block offers related financial products, including refund transfer services, prepaid debit cards, loans, identity protection, and small-business bookkeeping and payroll solutions through its Wave Financial subsidiary. 

On February 3, 2026, H&R Block, Inc. reported fiscal 2026 second-quarter results for the period ended December 31, 2025, demonstrating solid progress across its diversified tax and small-business solutions portfolio. The company delivered healthy top-line growth, with total revenue rising 11.1 percent year over year to $198.9 million, supported by higher assisted tax preparation volume, increased net average charges, strong Wave subscription and payments growth, and solid DIY software performance, underscoring the strength of its multi-channel model across assisted, do-it-yourself, and online offerings. 

Profitability remained seasonally negative, with a net loss from continuing operations of $241.6 million, or $1.91 per share, and adjusted loss per share of $1.84, though both metrics improved by mid-single digits year over year and reflected typical off-season dynamics rather than underlying deterioration. 

Capital returns were another clear strength, as H&R Block returned $507.7 million to shareholders year to date via dividends and buybacks, while retaining roughly $700 million of remaining capacity under its $1.5 billion repurchase authorization, signaling continued confidence in long-term cash generation. Looking ahead, the company reaffirmed fiscal 2026 guidance for revenue of $3.875 to $3.895 billion, EBITDA of $1.015 to $1.035 billion, and adjusted diluted EPS of $4.85 to $5.00.

HRB has paid increasing dividends over the past 11 years. HRB stock currently yields 5.6%. The company is a Dividend Contender.

Disclosure: No positions in any stocks mentioned.

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