Looking for ways to make your money work for you? Investing in dividend stocks can be a solid strategy, especially if you’re aiming for passive income. Instead of just hoping a stock price goes up, you get regular payouts just for owning it. This April 2026, there are some good options out there. We’ve rounded up a few of the best dividend stocks to buy now that could help grow your portfolio over time.
Key Takeaways
- Enterprise Products Partners (EPD) offers a solid dividend yield and a long history of increasing payouts, making it a strong choice in the energy sector.
- Realty Income (O) is known for its monthly dividends, providing consistent income from a diverse real estate portfolio.
- Procter & Gamble (PG) is a consumer staples giant with a decades-long track record of dividend growth, offering stability.
- Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) provides diversified exposure to dividend-paying stocks with a focus on quality and growth.
- While not all stocks mentioned may be on every ‘best of’ list, focusing on dividend-paying companies can be a reliable way to build wealth through compounding income.
1. Enterprise Products Partners
When thinking about passive income, especially in the energy sector, Enterprise Products Partners (EPD) is a name that often comes up. It’s a master limited partnership, which means it’s structured a bit differently than a typical corporation. Instead of shareholders, it has unit holders, and its profits flow directly to them. This structure often means a good chunk of its earnings gets passed on to investors.
Enterprise Products Partners is a major player in the midstream energy space, essentially acting like a tollbooth for oil and gas. They own and operate a vast network of pipelines and storage facilities. This business model is attractive because it’s less sensitive to the wild swings in oil and gas prices compared to exploration companies. They make money on the volume of product moving through their systems, not necessarily the price of that product. This can lead to more predictable cash flow, which is exactly what you want when you’re building a passive income stream.
They’ve got a pretty solid history of paying out distributions, which are like dividends for MLPs. In fact, they recently increased their first quarter 2026 payout by 2.8% to US$0.55 per unit. This move shows a commitment to returning capital to those who hold their units. For investors looking for income, this consistency is key. They are expected to release their earnings on April 21st, and shareholders of record by April 30th will receive that quarterly dividend of $0.55 per share. This works out to an annualized dividend of $2.20, giving it a decent dividend yield.
Here’s a quick look at some key points:
- Business Model: Operates a large network of pipelines and storage for oil and natural gas.
- Income Focus: As a master limited partnership, it’s designed to pass profits directly to unit holders.
- Distribution History: Has a long track record of paying and increasing its distributions.
- Industry Position: It’s one of the largest pipeline operators in the U.S., and they’re even looking into infrastructure for things like AI data centers, which is pretty interesting.
While the energy market can be unpredictable, the midstream sector, and EPD in particular, offers a way to get exposure to the energy industry with a focus on steady income. It’s worth looking into if you’re building a portfolio aimed at generating passive income.
2. Realty Income
Realty Income, often called "The Monthly Dividend Company," is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that focuses on owning and managing freestanding, single-tenant commercial properties. They’ve built a reputation for reliability, and importantly, they actually pay their dividends out monthly, which is a nice perk for income investors. This REIT has a massive portfolio, with over 15,000 properties spread across the United States and even some international locations.
The company’s long history of consistent dividend payments and annual increases makes it a standout in the REIT space. Realty Income has a track record of raising its dividend for over 32 years straight, and it’s managed quarterly increases for more than 114 consecutive quarters. While these increases might be small, they add up over time, contributing to a steady growth of your passive income stream.
Here’s a quick look at some key aspects:
- Monthly Payouts: Unlike most dividend stocks that pay quarterly, Realty Income distributes income every month.
- Diversified Portfolio: Their properties are spread across various industries and geographies, reducing risk.
- Tenant Quality: They often lease to large, well-known companies, which generally means more stable rent collection.
Despite some analysts being a bit cautious about its valuation, many individual investors seem to be piling into Realty Income because of its dependable cash flows and dividend history. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a steady, predictable income source from your investments.
3. Procter & Gamble
When you think about household names, Procter & Gamble (PG) has to be near the top of the list. They own a ton of brands that most people use every single day, like Pampers, Tide, Crest, and Gillette. It’s a consumer staples company, which means people tend to buy their products no matter what’s going on in the economy. That makes it a pretty stable bet for investors looking for steady income.
Procter & Gamble is a Dividend King, meaning it has increased its dividend for over 50 consecutive years, and in their case, it’s actually 70 years. That’s a really long time, showing they’ve managed to keep paying and growing their dividend through all sorts of economic ups and downs. They recently announced another dividend increase, pushing their quarterly payout up. This consistent growth is a big reason why people like PG for passive income.
Here’s a quick look at some of their dividend history:
- Consecutive Dividend Increases: 70 years
- Recent Quarterly Dividend: $1.0885 per share
- Average Annual Dividend Growth (Past 5 Years): Nearly 6%
Even though the dividend increases might seem small, usually around 5% annually, they add up significantly over many years, especially when you reinvest them. Plus, their brands are pretty much recession-proof, so they tend to do okay even when times are tough. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a blue-chip stock that reliably returns cash to shareholders. You can check out their latest dividend announcements on NYSE:PG.
For investors focused on long-term wealth building through consistent payouts, Procter & Gamble’s history of dividend increases makes it a standout. It’s the kind of company that just keeps chugging along, providing that steady stream of income many investors seek.
4. Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF
If you’re looking for a way to get into dividend stocks without picking individual companies, an ETF like the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) can be a solid choice. It’s a popular option for folks aiming for passive income, and for good reason. It’s designed to track companies that have a history of paying dividends, which is exactly what we’re after here.
SCHD has been performing pretty well, even outperforming the S&P 500 at times in 2026. This ETF isn’t just about chasing the highest yield; it looks at a few key things to pick its holdings. It considers a company’s five-year dividend growth, its return on equity, how its cash flow stacks up against its debt, and, of course, its dividend yield. This approach helps filter out companies that might have a high yield but aren’t really stable for the long haul.
Recently, SCHD did its annual check-up, swapping out some stocks for new ones. It added companies like UnitedHealth Group and Procter & Gamble, while removing others. This kind of adjustment helps keep the ETF aligned with its goals. The fund’s dividend yield is currently in the high-3% range, which is pretty good, especially when you compare it to the broader market average. Plus, it has a history of growing those dividends year after year, which is great for compounding your returns over time. If you’re interested in how dividend ETFs work, checking out Schwab’s ETF information could be helpful.
Here’s a quick look at what makes SCHD tick:
- Focus on Quality: It targets companies with a solid track record of paying and growing dividends.
- Financial Health Check: It screens for companies with good return on equity and manageable debt.
- Dividend Growth History: A key factor is how consistently dividends have increased over time.
For investors looking for a diversified approach to dividend income, SCHD offers a straightforward path. It’s a way to get exposure to a basket of dividend-paying stocks without the headache of managing each one individually. You can find more details on its performance and holdings on Schwab’s official site.
5. Alpine Income
Alpine Income Property Trust, often just called Alpine Income, is a real estate investment trust, or REIT. Think of REITs as a way to get into real estate without actually having to deal with tenants or leaky roofs. They own properties and then pay out most of their profits as dividends to shareholders. It’s a pretty neat setup for folks looking for steady income.
Alpine Income is on the smaller side compared to some of the big names in the REIT world, which can actually be a good thing. Smaller companies can sometimes find good deals more easily and grow faster. They recently bought a strip mall with some big-name stores like Walmart and TJ Maxx, which should bring in reliable rent money. Plus, they use something called triple net leases, meaning the tenants cover a lot of the property expenses. That adds another layer of safety.
The stock has seen a nice jump in price lately, but its dividend yield is still pretty good. This means you get a decent payout relative to the stock price. It’s worth keeping an eye on, especially if you’re building a portfolio focused on income.
Alpine Income is set to report its first-quarter earnings soon, on April 23rd. Analysts are expecting a small profit per share and a decent amount in revenue. It’s always a good idea to check out earnings reports to see how the company is doing financially. You can find more details about their financial performance on Alpine Income’s investor page.
Here’s a quick look at some key figures:
- Market Cap: Around $324 million
- Dividend Yield: Approximately 6%
- Recent Share Price Increase: About 18% year-to-date
While the stock price has gone up, the dividend yield still makes it an interesting option for income investors. It’s a different kind of play than some of the larger, more established companies, but that can be part of its appeal for those looking for growth potential alongside income. For a broader look at how REITs fit into an income strategy, consider exploring real estate investment trusts in general.
6. Dollar General
Dollar General might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think about dividend stocks, but hear me out. This company has a pretty interesting business model, especially with the way things are in the economy right now. They focus on smaller towns and areas that don’t have a lot of other shopping options. This means they can keep their costs down, which they then pass on to customers as lower prices. It’s a strategy that seems to be working, as they’re seeing sales go up.
The company’s ability to maintain steady sales, even when money is tight for a lot of people, makes it a solid choice for dividend investors. They’ve been paying out a quarterly dividend of $0.59, which adds up to $2.36 a year. That gives you a dividend yield of around 2.0 percent, which is a nice little bonus for holding onto the stock. While it might not be the highest yield out there, it’s consistent. Plus, they’ve been growing their profits, which means there’s potential for those dividend payments to go up over time. It’s not just about the income, though; the stock itself has also seen some growth. So, if you’re looking for a company that offers a mix of steady income and a chance for your investment to grow, Dollar General is definitely worth a look. They’re planning to increase their gross margin by about 40 basis points by fiscal 2026, though they are investing in store remodels which might affect their selling, general, and administrative costs a bit. You can check out their latest financial reports to see how they’re doing on their investor relations page.
7. UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) is a major player in the health care industry, and it’s been a consistent performer for dividend investors. Even with some recent dips in its stock price, the company has kept up its dividend payments, which is good news for those looking for steady income. This combination of a falling stock price and a rising dividend can signal a potential buying opportunity for value-focused investors.
In the first quarter of 2026, UnitedHealth Group reported revenues of $111.7 billion, showing a slight increase compared to the previous year. Their earnings per share came in at $6.90, with adjusted earnings at $7.23 per share. These numbers show the company is still generating solid profits.
Here’s a look at their dividend:
- Current Quarterly Dividend: $2.21 per share
- Annualized Dividend: $8.84 per share
- Dividend Yield: (This would typically be calculated based on the current stock price, but the context suggests it’s attractive due to the price drop).
UnitedHealth Group is a big part of the health care sector, and its inclusion in funds like the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF highlights its importance. The ETF recently added UNH to its holdings, which can be a positive sign for its stability and future prospects. While no stock is completely risk-free, UnitedHealth Group has a track record that makes it worth considering for a passive income portfolio. You can check out their latest financial reports to get a clearer picture of their performance here.
8. Abbott Laboratories
Abbott Laboratories (ABT) is a healthcare company that consistently shows up on lists of solid dividend payers. They’ve been around for a while, and that kind of stability is what you look for when you want income that you can count on. The company has a history of increasing its dividend for over 50 years straight, which is pretty impressive and shows a commitment to returning cash to shareholders.
When you look at Abbott, you see a dividend yield that’s currently around 2.5%. That might not sound huge, but when you combine it with that long track record of increases, it adds up over time. Plus, their forward price-to-earnings ratio is looking a bit lower than its average over the last five years, which could mean it’s a good time to buy in. They recently declared a quarterly dividend of $0.63 per share, which annualizes to $2.52. This payout is scheduled for May 15th for shareholders on record as of April 15th.
Here’s a quick look at some key points:
- Dividend Yield: Approximately 2.5%
- Dividend Growth: Over 50 consecutive years of increases
- Recent Payout: $0.63 per share quarterly
- Valuation: Forward P/E ratio below its five-year average
It’s worth noting that Abbott Laboratories was recently added to the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF, which is a fund that focuses on companies with a strong history of dividend payments. This inclusion further solidifies its position as a reliable choice for dividend investors looking for steady income.
9. AbbVie
AbbVie (ABBV) is looking pretty solid for dividend investors right now. The company is expected to report its first quarter 2026 earnings on April 29th, and analysts are predicting earnings per share of around $3.01 on revenue of $14.72 billion. That’s a good sign, showing they’re on track for a growth recovery in both profits and dividends.
This biotech giant has a history of rewarding shareholders, and the upcoming earnings report could confirm a positive outlook for continued shareholder returns.
Here’s a quick look at some key points:
- Dividend Growth: AbbVie has a track record of increasing its dividend payouts, which is exactly what you want to see for passive income.
- Financial Performance: The projected Q1 2026 results suggest the company is performing well financially, which supports its ability to keep paying and growing that dividend.
- Future Outlook: Beyond the immediate earnings, AbbVie is generally seen as having a positive trajectory, making it a potentially stable long-term holding for income investors.
While some ETFs, like the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF, have recently adjusted their holdings and removed AbbVie, this doesn’t necessarily mean the stock itself is a bad choice. It just means the ETF’s specific criteria changed. For individual investors focused on income, AbbVie’s fundamentals still make it a company worth considering for your portfolio.
10. Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems (CSCO) is a name many investors recognize, and for good reason. It’s a giant in the networking hardware and software space, providing the backbone for much of the internet and corporate networks we rely on daily. While not always the flashiest stock, Cisco has a history of returning capital to shareholders through dividends.
The company recently paid out a dividend of $0.42 per share, which annualizes to $1.68 per share, giving it a yield of about 1.9% as of early April 2026. This consistent payout makes it an interesting option for those looking to build a passive income stream. Analysts are also expecting positive earnings growth, with projections for a 10.3% increase in diluted earnings per share compared to the previous year.
It’s worth noting that Cisco Systems was recently removed from the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF during its annual reconstitution. This doesn’t necessarily mean the company is a bad investment, but it’s a change that investors should be aware of. The ETF’s criteria focus on factors like dividend growth, return on equity, and cash flow, so its decisions can offer insights into how the market views a company’s financial health and dividend sustainability. For those interested in the broader tech sector and its dividend potential, exploring companies that are part of such ETFs can be a good starting point.
Here’s a quick look at some key figures:
- Recent Dividend: $0.42 per share
- Annualized Dividend: $1.68 per share
- Approximate Yield (April 2026): 1.9%
- Projected EPS Growth: 10.3% year-over-year
While the yield might not be the highest on this list, Cisco’s established market position and commitment to dividends make it a steady choice for a diversified portfolio focused on passive income. You can find more information about the company’s financial performance on their investor relations page.
Wrapping Up Your Passive Income Journey
So, we’ve looked at a few ways to get some extra cash coming in without having to actively work for it. Whether it’s through steady dividend payers like Procter & Gamble, real estate plays like Realty Income, or even energy infrastructure with Enterprise Products Partners, the goal is to build that income stream over time. It’s not about getting rich quick, but more about setting yourself up for a more comfortable future. Remember, picking the right investments is key, and doing a little homework goes a long way. Keep an eye on these companies and others like them, and you might just find that passive income snowball starts to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dividend stocks and how do they help with passive income?
Dividend stocks are shares in companies that share a portion of their profits with their owners, called shareholders. These payments, known as dividends, are usually given out regularly, like every three months. Think of it like getting a small reward just for owning a piece of the company. This can add up over time, helping you earn money without actively working for it, which is what we call passive income.
Why is April a good time to look for dividend stocks?
April often marks the beginning of a new quarter for many companies, and sometimes companies announce or adjust their dividend plans around this time. It’s also a point in the year when investors review their portfolios and look for opportunities to boost their income, making it a popular time to focus on dividend-paying stocks.
What’s the difference between a dividend and an ETF?
A dividend is a payment from a single company to its shareholders. An Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), like the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF, is like a basket holding many different stocks. Buying one share of an ETF gives you a small piece of all the companies in that basket, which often include dividend-paying stocks. ETFs can offer more variety and spread out risk compared to owning just one company’s stock.
Are dividend stocks safe investments?
Dividend stocks can be a great way to earn income, but like all investments, they come with risks. The value of the stock can go up or down, and companies can sometimes reduce or stop their dividend payments if they face financial trouble. It’s important to choose companies that are stable and have a history of consistently paying and even increasing their dividends.
What does ‘dividend yield’ mean?
Dividend yield is a way to measure how much income you get from a stock’s dividend compared to its price. If a stock costs $100 and pays a $3 dividend per year, its dividend yield is 3%. It helps you compare the income potential of different stocks.
How can I make sure my dividend income keeps growing?
To grow your passive income, look for companies that have a history of increasing their dividends year after year. This shows they are growing and can afford to share more profits with investors. Reinvesting your dividends, meaning using the dividend money to buy more shares of the same stock, can also help your income grow faster over time through compounding.
