Want $500 Each Month in Passive Income? Here’s How Much You Need

Want some passive income? You don’t have to find some risky dividend stocks. In fact, you can create tons of passive income with one ETF!

| More on:
analyze data

Image source: Getty Images

If you’re looking to generate $500 a month in dividends, you do not need to suddenly go find the dividend stock with the highest yield and a soaring payout ratio. In fact, there are exchange-traded funds (ETF) offering high yields, with far less risk!

One such dividend ETF is the Harvest Diversified Monthly Income ETF (TSX:HDIV). It stands out as a top option. With a high dividend yield of approximately 10.9% at writing, HDIV provides consistent income while benefiting from exposure to a diversified range of sectors and large global companies. These attributes make it a reliable choice for investors focused on monthly payouts.

Diving into HDIV

What makes HDIV particularly appealing is its active management approach, combining top-performing ETFs in sectors like healthcare, technology, and utilities. HDIV’s portfolio includes well-established Harvest ETFs like the Healthcare Leaders ETF and the Tech Achievers Growth & Income ETF. These are designed to tap into powerful long-term growth trends while also generating income through a covered call strategy. This balance between growth potential and steady income creates a compelling case for those wanting consistent monthly dividends.

In terms of performance, HDIV has shown impressive returns, with year-to-date growth of over 23%. The combination of modest leverage (around 1.25x) and covered calls on up to 33% of its holdings helps to boost income while managing risk.

Looking ahead

The management team at Harvest Portfolios Group, which oversees HDIV, has a strong track record in crafting ETFs designed for income-focused investors. They strategically rebalance HDIV’s portfolio to ensure it stays aligned with market trends, enhancing both income and growth opportunities. Their expertise ensures that HDIV maintains its high distribution rate, which has consistently remained around $0.0741 per unit on a monthly basis.

Looking ahead, HDIV is well-positioned for future success. The ETF’s focus on sectors like healthcare and technology are industries poised for long-term expansion. This gives it a growth edge, while the active covered call strategy ensures that it can continue delivering stable income even during market volatility. As more investors seek reliable income streams, especially in uncertain economic times, HDIV’s appeal will likely grow.

Bottom line

So how much would investors need to put away to reach that $500 per month? Right now, you can pick up shares at $18. Plus, the dividend is at $1.95 annually. So to get to that $500 per month in dividends alone, or $6,000 per year, here’s what you’d need to put away.

COMPANYRECENT PRICENUMBER OF SHARESDIVIDENDTOTAL PAYOUTFREQUENCYINVESTMENT
HDIV$183,077$1.95$6,000.15monthly$55,386

There you have it. A $55,386 investment would create $500 per month. And it’s not just in one dividend stock. It’s in a diversified ETF up 23% year-to-date already! HDIV, therefore, combines a high yield with a diversified portfolio, making it an excellent option if your goal is to generate $500 per month in dividends. Its focus on growth sectors, strong management, and consistent monthly payouts creates a winning combination for passive income seekers. With HDIV, you’re not just investing in dividends. You’re investing in a future of growth and stability.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Dividend Stocks

A worker drinks out of a mug in an office.
Dividend Stocks

2 Magnificent TSX Dividend Stocks Down 35% to Buy and Hold Forever

These two top TSX dividend stocks are both high-quality businesses and trading unbelievably cheap, making them two of the best…

Read more »

happy woman throws cash
Dividend Stocks

This 7.5% Dividend Stock Sends Cash to Investors Every Single Month

If you want TFSA-friendly income you can actually feel each month, this beaten-down REIT offers a high yield while it…

Read more »

dividends grow over time
Dividend Stocks

1 Smart Buy-and-Hold Canadian Stock

This ultra-reliable Canadian stock is the perfect business to buy now and hold in your portfolio for decades to come.

Read more »

the word REIT is an acronym for real estate investment trust
Dividend Stocks

This 7.7% Dividend Stock Pays Me Each Month Like Clockwork

Understanding the importance of dividend-paying trusts can help you effectively secure monthly income from your investments.

Read more »

space ship model takes off
Dividend Stocks

2 Top Dividend Stocks for Long-Term Returns

Explore how investing in stocks can provide valuable dividends while maintaining your principal investment for the long term.

Read more »

Woman checking her computer and holding coffee cup
Dividend Stocks

How I’d Structure My TFSA With $14,000 for Consistent Monthly Income

Learn how to effectively use your TFSA contributions in 2026 to create consistent income and capitalize on market opportunities.

Read more »

a person watches stock market trades
Dividend Stocks

Analysts Are Bullish on These Canadian Stocks: Here’s My Take

Canada’s “boring” stocks are getting interesting again, and these three steady businesses could benefit if rates ease and patience returns.

Read more »

delivery truck drives into sunset
Dividend Stocks

Undervalued Canadian Stocks to Buy Now

These two overlooked Canadian stocks show how patient investors can still find undervalued stocks even after a solid market rally.

Read more »