In fact, here are three high-yielding stocks that could give your portfolio a boost.

Realty Income: A Reliable Monthly Dividend Leader

With a yield of 5.13%, the real estate investment trust (REIT) Realty Income (NYSE: O), otherwise known as The Monthly Dividend Company, just declared its 673rd consecutive common stock monthly dividend. The dividend of $0.2710 per share, is payable on August 14, 2026 to stockholders of record as of July 31, 2026.

Earnings have also been solid. In its most recent quarter, the company posted funds from operations (FFO) of $1.13, which beat by three cents. Revenue of $1.55 billion, up 12.3% year over year, beat by $160 million. 

And, as noted by CEO Sumit Roy, “Given the strong momentum across the business, we are increasing our 2026 AFFO per share guidance range to $4.41 to $4.44, reflecting projected annual per share growth of 3.0% to 3.7%. Our outlook is a testament to the unmatched scale, track record and operating capabilities of our global net lease enterprise.”

EPR Properties Offers High Yield and Growth Potential

We can also look at EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR). 

With a yield of 6.04%, EPR Properties is a REIT that invests in amusement parks, movie theaters, ski resorts and other entertainment properties. The company will pay a dividend of 31 cents per share on July 15 to shareholders of record as of June 30.

Earnings were solid here, too.  Q1 FFO of $1.29 beat by four cents. Revenue of $181.25 million, up 3.6% year over year, beat by $1.32 million. The company also boosted its full-year guidance, now expecting adjusted FFO of $5.37 to $5.53, as compared to the analyst estimate of $5.39, and as compared to its prior outlook at $5.18 to $5.48.

“We are pleased with our first quarter results, including strong earnings growth and the momentum we have established in executing our growth strategy,” stated Company Chairman and CEO Greg Silvers. “We deployed over $50 million during the quarter, and subsequent to quarter-end completed the acquisition of six high-quality regional parks with strong fundamentals and compelling long-term value creation potential.”

STAG Industrial Benefits From E-Commerce Demand

With a yield of 3.59%, Stag Industrial (NYSE: STAG) is a REIT that leases industrial properties, such as warehouses and distribution centers, to e-commerce companies. Better, it’s also benefiting from consumers shifting to online shopping. The REIT also paid a dividend of just over 38 cents per share on April 15.

It’s Q1 FFO of 65 cents beat by a penny. Revenue of $224.21 million, up 9% year over year, best by $1.86 million. “STAG delivered strong first quarter results driven by healthy leasing activity, disciplined capital allocation, and a growing acquisition pipeline,” said Bill Crooker, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. “These results set a solid foundation for 2026 and we remain well positioned to capitalize on opportunities.”

Which High-Yield Dividend Stock Is Right for Your Portfolio?

High-yield dividend stocks can play an important role in building long-term wealth, especially when investors consistently reinvest their payouts. Realty Income, EPR Properties, and STAG Industrial each offer strong dividend yields, solid operating performance, and exposure to real estate sectors with favorable long-term demand trends. 

In addition, these REITs have demonstrated an ability to generate reliable cash flow and return capital to shareholders through regular dividend payments. For investors with $5,000 to put to work today, these three dividend stocks could provide an attractive combination of passive income, portfolio stability, and long-term total return potential.

Investors searching for defensive positioning are turning to established income-producing assets that not only offer consistent cash flow but also demonstrate long-term resilience through regular dividend increases. From real estate investment trusts to global financial services companies and income-focused ETFs, these high-yield opportunities are becoming a cornerstone for those seeking both yield and downside protection in uncertain markets.

Realty Income’s Dividend Resilience Over Time

Known as “The Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income (NYSE: O) yields about 5.26%.  It also just increased its monthly cash dividend to $0.2710 per share from $0.2705 per share. The dividend is payable on July 15, 2026, to stockholders of record as of June 30, 2026. 

“Our portfolio’s consistent operating performance supports our ability to deliver stockholders reliable monthly dividends that grow over time,” said Sumit Roy, Realty Income’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Today’s announcement marks the 135^th dividend increase since Realty Income’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 1994, a reflection of the durability of our platform and our disciplined approach to delivering consistent, long-term growth.”

Western Union: High Yield Stock

Another good high-yield stock is Western Union (NYSE: WU) With a yield of 13.41%, WU recently declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.235 per common share. It’s scheduled to be paid on June 30, 2026, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on June 16, 2026.

Plus, as its shifts to digital money services, it’s expected to see even more demand. In fact, as noted by FXC Intelligence, “The consumer money transfers industry presents a massive opportunity: a global TAM of $2tn in 2024 that will grow to $3.1tn by 2032, according to our market sizing data. A key growth driver for this industry has been a global push – led by digital disruptors in the space – to move consumer money transfers online.”

JPMorgan Premium Income ETF

With an expense ratio of 0.35% and a yield of 7.56%, the JPMorgan Equity Income ETF (NYSEARCA: JEPI) is another smart place to park $5,000 and forget about it.  JEPI returns monthly income and capital appreciation, attempting to capture the returns of the S&P 500 with less volatility. It does so by selling options and investing in large cap stocks, such as Johnson & Johnson, Analog Devices, Ross Stores, AbbVie, RTX Corp., and Yum Brands.

JEPI also paid a dividend of just over 38 cents a share on June 3. Before that, it paid just over 47 cents per share on May 5. And before that, it paid out just over 42 cents per share on April 6.

The Core Message for Investors

Again, investors are increasingly prioritizing yield, stability, and predictable cash flow over aggressive growth alone. Whether it’s the long-term dividend growth model of Realty Income, the exceptionally high-income yield from Western Union as it pivots toward digital payments, or the diversified, volatility-reducing structure of JPMorgan Equity Income ETF, each offers a different path to the same objective—steady income in an uncertain environment.

All provide a buffer during downturns, help smooth portfolio returns, and deliver tangible income that can be reinvested or used for cash flow needs. For investors looking to balance volatility with reliability, high-yield strategies like these remain a core component of a disciplined, long-term portfolio approach.

Dividend ETFs give investors exposure to diversified baskets of companies with strong histories of paying and growing shareholder payouts. Many of these businesses are mature, financially stable firms capable of generating reliable cash flow even during economic slowdowns. That combination of diversification, dependable income, and lower stress makes dividend ETFs especially attractive for retirees and conservative investors.

For investors looking to build volatility-resistant portfolios, these three dividend ETFs stand out for their history of reliable payouts and strong underlying holdings.

SPDR S&P Dividend ETF Offers Reliable Dividend Growth

The SPDR S&P Dividend ETF (NYSEARCA: SDY) invests in companies that have increased dividends for at least 20 consecutive years. With an expense ratio of 0.35%, the ETF yields about 2.46% and gives investors exposure to some of the market’s most dependable dividend payers.

These companies have maintained and increased payouts through major market disruptions, including the dot-com crash, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. That consistency can help investors stay confident during periods of uncertainty.

Some of SDY’s top holdings include Verizon (NYSE: VZ), Realty Income (NYSE: O), Target (NYSE: TGT), Chevron (NYSE: CVX), Kimberly-Clark (NYSE: KMB), and Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM). These companies operate in defensive industries and generate the kind of steady cash flow that supports long-term dividend growth.

Invesco SPHD Combines High Dividend Yield With Low Volatility

With an expense ratio of 0.30%, the Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF (NYSEARCA: SPHD) focuses on two key investor priorities: strong dividend income and reduced volatility. The ETF currently offers a yield of approximately 4.66%, making it especially attractive for retirees and income-focused investors.

One of SPHD’s biggest advantages is its monthly dividend payout schedule. Monthly payments can make budgeting easier for investors relying on portfolio income to cover living expenses.

The ETF holds 50 stocks selected for both high yield and historically lower volatility. Top holdings include ConAgra Brands, Verizon, Altria Group, Pfizer, VICI Properties, and ONEOK Inc.

SPHD has also demonstrated a consistent payout history. It recently paid a dividend of just over 20 cents per share on April 24, following similar payouts in March and February. That consistency may appeal to investors seeking predictable income streams during uncertain economic conditions.

Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF Focuses on Long-Term Quality 

The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (NYSEARCA: VIG) takes a different approach by emphasizing long-term dividend growth instead of simply chasing higher yields. With an extremely low expense ratio of 0.05% and a yield of approximately 1.56%, VIG is designed for investors seeking quality and stability over time.

The ETF tracks the S&P U.S. Dividend Growers Index and invests in large-cap companies with strong histories of increasing dividends. Many of these businesses also benefit from durable competitive advantages and strong balance sheets.

Among VIG’s 338 holdings are Apple, Microsoft, Broadcom, JPMorgan, Eli Lilly, Visa, Exxon Mobil, UnitedHealth Group, Mastercard, and Costco Wholesale. These are companies with strong earnings power that can continue rewarding shareholders even during slower economic periods.

VIG pays a quarterly dividend and most recently distributed just over 83 cents per share on March 31 after paying more than 88 cents per share in December.

Dividend ETFs Can Help Investors Stay Calm During Volatility

Market volatility is never comfortable, but it doesn’t have to derail a long-term investment strategy. For income-focused investors, dividend ETFs can provide stability by delivering regular payouts while still offering exposure to quality companies with proven track records.

Funds like the SPDR S&P Dividend ETF, Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF, and Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF each offer a different approach to generating income, whether through higher yields, lower volatility, or long-term dividend growth. While no investment is completely immune to market swings, owning diversified ETFs filled with financially strong companies can make it easier to stay invested during uncertain times. 

One of the best examples is the Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (NYSEARCA: VYM), which has held up better than the broader market this year thanks to its diversified basket of reliable dividend-paying companies. High-yield dividend stocks not only provide recurring income, but they can also help cushion portfolios when markets become uncertain.

Year to date, VYM has outperformed the S&P 500. While the benchmark index is down about 3% this year, VYM has delivered positive returns of roughly 3%, highlighting the defensive appeal of dividend investing.

With an expense ratio of just 0.04%, the ETF tracks the FTSE High Dividend Yield Index and currently holds 562 stocks, including Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO), JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM), Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM), Walmart (NYSE: WMT), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ). The ETF also yields about 2.29% and pays a quarterly dividend.

For investors looking for even higher income opportunities, here are two additional high-yield dividend stocks that could deserve a permanent place in a long-term portfolio.

Realty Income 

Collect Reliable Monthly Income With Realty Income

Known as “The Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income (NYSE: O) yields about 5%.  It also just increased its monthly cash dividend to $0.2705 per share from $0.270 per share. The dividend is payable on April 15, 2026, to stockholders of record as of March 31, 2026. The new monthly dividend represents an annualized dividend of $3.246 per share, compared with the prior annualized dividend of $3.240 per share.

Making it even more attractive, Realty Income is one of the biggest lease real estate investment trusts (REITs) you can buy. It also owns more than 15,600 properties, with a vast majority of those in the retail sector. In fact, some of its biggest tenants include 7-Eleven, Dollar General, Walgreen’s, Wynn Resorts, FedEx, BJ’s Wholesale Club, CVS, and Tractor Supply.

Lock In Strong Yield and Defensive Cash Flow With Verizon 

With a yield of about 5.6%, Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is another hot, high-yielding stock to buy and forget about for a while. The company declared a dividend of $0.7075, a 2.5% increase from its prior dividend of $0.69. It’s payable on May 1 to shareholders of record as of April 10.

Recent earnings and guidance were also solid. For the fourth quarter, EPS of $1.09 beat by three cents. Revenue of $36.4 billion, up 2.4% year over year, beat by $200 million. In the quarter, the company also saw total postpaid phone net additions of 616,000, up 22% and ahead of estimates of 420,491. For 2026, Verizon expects total retail postpaid phone net additions of 750,000 to a million and adjusted EPS of $4.90 to $4.95, or growth of 4% to 5%.

Helping analysts at Raymond James raise their price target on Verizon to $56 from $50, with an outperform rating. Analysts at Scotiabank also upgraded Verizon to sector outperform from sector perform, with a price target of $54.50 a share from $50.25, citing cost-cutting measures.

High-Yield Dividend Stocks Provide Safety

In a market where volatility can strike without warning, high-yield dividend stocks can provide both stability and reliable income for long-term investors. Whether you choose the broad diversification of the Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF, the dependable monthly payouts from Realty Income, or Verizon’s strong cash flow and growing dividend, each offers a compelling way to build wealth over time. 

While no investment is completely risk-free, quality dividend plays have historically rewarded patient investors with consistent returns, passive income, and a measure of protection during uncertain markets. For investors focused on long-term growth and income, these are the kinds of positions that can deserve a permanent place in a portfolio.

You can capture these benefits through dividend-focused ETFs like the Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (NYSEARCA: VYM). Year to date, as of this writing, it’s outperforming the S&P 500. Since the year began, the S&P 500 is down 3%, compared to the year-to-date 3% returns of the VYM ETF. It also remains one of the best ways to trade dividend growth.  

With an expense ratio of 0.04%, the VYM ETF tracks the performance of the FTSE High Dividend Yield Index, and currently holds 562 stocks, including Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO), JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM), Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM), Walmart (NASDAQ: WMT), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ).

The VYM ETF also carries a yield of 2.29% and pays a quarterly dividend. On December 23, 2025, it paid a dividend of just over 94 cents. On September 23, it paid out just over 84 cents. And on June 24, it paid out just over 86 cents a share.

Two other high-yield dividend stocks to consider are:

Buy-and-Hold Dividend Stocks: Realty Income

Known as “The Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income (NYSE: O) yields about 5%.  It also just increased in its monthly cash dividend to $0.2705 per share from $0.270 per share. The dividend is payable on April 15, 2026, to stockholders of record as of March 31, 2026. The new monthly dividend represents an annualized dividend amount of $3.246 per share as compared to the prior annualized dividend amount of $3.240 per share.

Making it even more attractive, Realty Income is one of the biggest lease real estate investment trusts (REITs) you can buy. It also owns more than 15,600 properties, with a vast majority of those in the retail sector. In fact, some of its biggest tenants include 7-Eleven, Dollar General (NYSE: DG), Walgreen’s, Wynn Resorts (NASDAQ: WYNN), FedEx (NYSE: FDX), BJ’s Wholesale Club (NYSE: BJ), CVS Health (NYSE: CVS), and Tractor Supply (NASDAQ: TSCO).

Buy-and-Hold Dividend Stocks: Verizon

With a yield of about 5.6%, Verizon (NYSE: VZ) is another hot, high-yielding dividend stock to buy and forget about for a while. It also declared a dividend of $0.7075, a 2.5% increase from its prior dividend of $0.69. It’s payable on May 1 to shareholders of record as of April 10.

Recent earnings and guidance were also solid. For the fourth quarter, EPS of $1.09 beat by three cents. Revenue of $36.4 billion, up 2.4% year over year, beat by $200 million. In the quarter, the company also saw total postpaid phone net additions of 616,000, up 22% and ahead of estimates of 420,491. For 2026, Verizon expects total retail postpaid phone net additions of 750,000 to a million and adjusted EPS of $4.90 to $4.95, or growth of 4% to 5%.

Analysts at Raymond James raised their price target on Verizon to $56 from $50, maintaining an outperform rating. Analysts at Scotiabank also upgraded Verizon to sector outperform from sector perform, with a price target of $54.50 per share, up from $50.25, citing cost-cutting.

Avoiding Yield Traps While Locking in Reliable Income

High yields can be attractive, but not all dividends are safe. Some dividend stocks become yield traps when prices fall on weak outlooks. That’s why quality matters just as much as yield.

Funds like VYM focus on financially sound dividend payers. Likewise, Realty Income and Verizon offer durable cash flows. Both companies support payouts with stable, predictable business models.

This balance helps investors avoid chasing unsustainable income.
Instead, they can focus on consistency and long-term returns. In volatile markets, that approach can make a critical difference. Reliable dividends plus stability often outperform over time. For investors seeking income and downside protection, these dividend stocks stand out as smart, disciplined choices.

With REITs, it’s all about the dividend. By law, a REIT is required to pay out a significant percentage of their earnings (typically around 90%) as dividends. That makes these a prime target for income-oriented investors.  

That brings up another benefit of REITs, many come with high dividend yields. After all, you’re just not going to make the money you want in today’s low-yielding savings accounts. You’re lucky if you earn 0.40% these days. And many of these REITs have yields above that of long-dated Treasury bills, so you get both yield and liquidity.   

If it’s dependable income you’re after, one of the best things you can do is invest in high-yield REITs. Here are three you may want to consider. 

REITs to Buy: Realty Income

Realty Income (NYSE: O), or The Monthly Dividend Company, pays a monthly dividend. 

At the moment, with a yield of 5.64%, it just declared its 664th consecutive monthly dividend of $0.2695 per share, or an annualized amount of $3.234 per share, is payable on November 14, 2025 to stockholders of record as of October 31, 2025. 

Making it even more attractive, Realty income is one of the biggest lease real estate investment trusts (REITs) you can buy. It also owns more than 15,600 properties, with a vast majority of that in the retail sector. In fact, some of its biggest tenants include 7-Eleven, Dollar General, Walgreen’s, Wynn Resorts, FedEx, BJ’s Wholesale Club, CVS, and Tractor Supply. 

O stock is up about 6.3% in 2025, which is in line with its total return over the last three years. It also reflects the slowdown in the housing market. But you’re buying this stock for future growth. And at 13x forward earnings and with about 3.3% expected earnings growth, Realty Income may be ready to outperform in a rate-cutting environment.  

REITs to Buy: Agree Realty 

With a yield of 4.26%, Agree Realty (NYSE: ADC) is a net lease REIT with a strong focus on retail. ADC just declared a monthly dividend of $0.262 per share, or an annualized dividend amount of $3.144 per share. The dividend is payable November 14, 2025, to stockholders of record at the close of business on October 31, 2025. 

Some of its top clients include Tractor Supply, TJX Companies, Walgreen’s, Walmart, Dollar General, Best Buy, CVS, Hobby Lobby, and The Home Depot to name a few. 

Like Realty Income, ADC stock is only up about 3.5% in 2025. However, the stock also has an attractive forward P/E ratio of around 17x and analysts project around 4% earnings growth in the next 12 months.  

REITs to Buy: EPR Properties

There’s also EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR), which yields 6.91% and invests in amusement parks, movie theaters, ski resorts, and other entertainment properties. That’s a reason why EPR stock is up about 15% in 2025. The experiential economy has still been lifting the broader economy. Lower interest rates may allow that trend to continue into 2026. 

EPR Properties just declared a monthly cash dividend of $0.295 per share, which is payable October 15, 2025, to shareholders of record on September 30, 2025. This dividend represents an annualized dividend of $3.54 per common share. 

EPR stock has an attractive forward P/E of around 10x earnings and analysts forecast about 2.3% earnings growth in the next 12 months.