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:

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.

analyze data

Image source: Getty Images

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

shopper carries paper bags with purchases
Dividend Stocks

This 6.3% Dividend Stock Pays Cash Every Single Month

Craving monthly dividends? Plaza Retail REIT (TSX:PLZ.UN) delivers a 6.3% yield from a resilient open-air retail properties portfolio built for…

Read more »

pregnant mother juggles work and childcare
Dividend Stocks

A 6.3% Dividend Yield: I’m Buying This TSX Stock and Holding for Decades

Explore the significance of dividend stocks in the Canadian market and discover the strongest dividend contenders.

Read more »

Canadian investor contemplating U.S. stocks with multiple doors to choose from.
Dividend Stocks

The Stock I’d Pick Over Telus or BCE and Why I Keep Coming Back to It

This TSX utility stock offers a more powerful mix of reliable dividend income and long-term growth potential than telecom stocks…

Read more »

a person watches a downward arrow crash through the floor
Dividend Stocks

This Dividend Stock Has Fallen 55% — and I’d Still Back It as a Long-Term Hold

Even after falling in recent years, this stock offers a sustainable 5% yield, making it a solid long-term investment for…

Read more »

earn passive income by investing in dividend paying stocks
Dividend Stocks

TFSA: Invest $14,000 in This TSX Stock and Create $784 in Annual Passive Income

Given its high-quality tenant base, a history of consistent distribution growth, and solid long-term expansion prospects, CT REIT would be…

Read more »

woman looks out at horizon
Dividend Stocks

The Average TFSA Balance for Canadians at 55

Canadians should aim to maximize their TFSAs, whether they are conservative or aggressive in their investing strategy.

Read more »

House models and one with REIT real estate investment trust.
Dividend Stocks

A Perfect May TFSA With a 4% Monthly Payout

A 4% yield with monthly payouts and a disciplined growth strategy make this TSX stock stand out in May 2026.

Read more »

A worker uses a double monitor computer screen in an office.
Dividend Stocks

Looking for a 5.2% Average Yield? These 3 TSX Stocks Are Worth a Look

Given their dependable cash flows, attractive yields, and significant development opportunities, these three Canadian stocks are attractive buys for income-seeking…

Read more »