2 Great Dividend Stocks for a Lifetime of Passive Income

There are relatively few dividend stocks that can be counted upon to provide you with a lifetime of passive income.

| More on:
investment research

Image source: Getty Images

Once upon a time, rental properties were the go-to asset class for people who wanted to start reliable passive income that could last them for a lifetime. But even though real estate is a highly reliable asset class, it has certain weaknesses. A high barrier to entry and the active nature of the passive investments are two reasons why you might consider a different asset class.

Stocks, especially dividend stocks, provide a much more viable alternative. They don’t require active management, and if you choose the right companies, that is, financially stable and expected to stay that way, you might start a passive income that can last you a lifetime.

A telecom company

BCE (TSX:BCE)(NYSE:BCE) is having a difficult time recovering to its pre-pandemic valuation, but what is a curse for investors seeking capital growth might be the boon for investors looking for a generous yield. BCE is currently offering a juicy yield of 5.87%. The payout ratio is quite high, but the company’s financials have started to recover, and it has adequate free cash flow to cover the dividends.

The company has been growing its dividends for the past 12 years, and the growth has been more than just symbolic. Between 2017 and 2021, the telecom giant of Canada has grown its payouts by about 22%. If you can lock in this yield and invest a decent amount, say $50,000 in this Dividend Aristocrat, you can start a passive income of over $2,935 a year. For many households, it would like one month’s additional salary.

If you keep this investment in your Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), you can cash in the dividends. In an RRSP, you can use the funds to invest in other companies/assets.

A REIT

Few sectors saw as many dividend cuts last year as the real estate. Many REITs slashed their payouts, but SmartCentres (TSX:SRU.UN), one of the Dividend Aristocrats in the sector, wasn’t one of them. The REIT is currently offering monthly payouts of about $0.1542 per share, which translates to a mouthwatering yield of 6.3%. With $50,000 invested in the company, you can start a passive income of $3,150 a year.

It’s important to note that SmartCentres didn’t raise its dividends in 2020 and in 2021 thus far, but if it wants to continue its dividend growth streak, the REIT will have to grow its payouts within the year. It might be difficult considering that the REIT is currently suffering from one of the worst payout ratios in the past five years, but the REIT has a strong enough presence to turn things around.

Foolish takeaway

Creating a lifetime passive income through a Dividend Aristocrat is beneficial for another reason. Even if the payouts grow slowly, if there is growth, the chances that this passive income can stay ahead of inflation are relatively high. Both of the Dividend Aristocrats mentioned above are well positioned in their respective industries, and neither is in danger of suffering from a major financial deficit in the near future.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Adam Othman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Smart REIT.

More on Dividend Stocks

Blocks conceptualizing Canada's Tax Free Savings Account
Dividend Stocks

Where to Invest Your $7,000 TFSA Contribution for Long-Term Gains

Whether it's infrastructure, real estate or tech, these three stocks offer a promising addition to your TFSA.

Read more »

coins jump into piggy bank
Dividend Stocks

Better Dividend Stock: Canadian Tire vs. CT REIT? 

Both Canadian Tire and CT REIT are good dividend stocks. However, which is a better investment depends on your financial…

Read more »

Dam of hydroelectric power plant in Canadian Rockies
Dividend Stocks

3 Low-Volatility TSX Stocks for Smoother Returns

Find stability in an era of tariff-induced uncertainty with Hydro One and two other low-volatility Canadian stocks

Read more »

Senior uses a laptop computer
Dividend Stocks

Why Canadian Dividend Stocks Are Still a Smart Buy in 2025

Here are some tax-related reasons why investors should continue to buy Canadian dividend stocks.

Read more »

monthly desk calendar
Dividend Stocks

3 Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold Forever

These three dividend stocks offer monthly income and so much more for investors seeking growth in their portfolio.

Read more »

TFSA (Tax free savings account) acronym on wooden cubes on the background of stacks of coins
Dividend Stocks

3 Canadian Stocks to Consider Adding to Your TFSA in 2025

Canadian dividend stocks like Altagas are a prime candidate for your TFSA due to their attractive valuations and dividend yields.

Read more »

lab worker inspects test tubes
Dividend Stocks

Better Materials Stock: Nutrien vs Methanex?

Sure, Nutrien stock seems like a strong option. But this other one might just have the edge on it.

Read more »

stock research, analyze data
Dividend Stocks

A Dividend Giant I’d Buy Over AQN Stock Right Now

While AQN continues to wrestle with multiple headwinds in 2025, another TSX dividend stock with a tasty yield is beating…

Read more »