Equifax (EFX) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• Equifax pays a forward annual dividend of $2.06 per share, yielding approximately 1.05% at recent prices.
• The company has paid cash dividends for more than 100 consecutive years, demonstrating exceptional consistency.
• Recent 12% quarterly dividend increase to $0.56 per share signals management's confidence in future cash flows.
• Payout ratio of 35.53% and strong free cash flow coverage indicate high dividend sustainability.
• Quarterly payment schedule with the most recent ex-dividend date of March 9, 2026, and payment on March 17, 2026.
• Dividend yield is competitive within the credit services industry peers like TRU.

Dividend Overview

Equifax Inc. (EFX) maintains a modest quarterly dividend policy, reflecting its focus on reinvesting in growth while rewarding shareholders. The forward annual dividend stands at $2.06 per share, delivering a yield of about 1.05% based on a recent stock price of $196.22. Payments occur quarterly, with the latest ex-dividend date on March 9, 2026, and payment on March 17, 2026. This profile positions EFX as a dividend growth stock rather than a high-yield play, prioritizing steady increases over elevated payouts. The company's long-standing commitment to dividends, spanning over a century, underscores its stability in the credit information services sector.

Dividend History and Growth

Equifax has an exemplary dividend history, paying cash dividends for more than 100 consecutive years without interruption. The quarterly dividend has shown consistent growth, rising from an annual total of $1.00 in 2015 to recent levels approaching $2.00 and now forward $2.06. In February 2026, the board authorized a 12% increase to $0.56 per share for the first quarter, payable March 17, 2026. This reflects a strategy of gradual hikes supported by improving earnings and cash generation, with no recorded cuts in recent decades. Over the past five years, dividend growth has averaged around 5-6% annually, aligning with its long-term commitment to shareholder returns.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

Equifax's dividend appears highly sustainable, backed by a trailing payout ratio of 35.53%, well below levels that might strain finances. Earnings comfortably cover dividends, with net income of $660.3 million in the recent period supporting payouts. Free cash flow (FCF), at approximately $1 billion levered, provides ample coverage, with a low cash payout ratio around 21%. Debt levels, reflected in a total debt/equity ratio of 110.64%, are manageable given steady revenue from credit data services. Robust FCF growth further bolsters confidence in ongoing payments and potential future increases.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the credit services industry, Equifax's 1.05% forward yield is competitive. Peer TransUnion (TRU) offers a lower yield of about 0.67% on a $0.50 annual dividend. Experian (EXPGY), traded as an ADR, provides around 1.6-1.7%. Fair Isaac (FICO) does not pay a dividend, focusing instead on growth. Equifax's profile—modest yield with superior history and coverage—stands out for investors seeking reliability over high income in this sector.

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Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

Equifax (EFX) appeals to dividend growth investors who prioritize consistency and moderate appreciation over high current income. Its century-plus streak of payments and recent hikes make it suitable for long-term, conservative portfolios seeking reliable cash returns amid economic cycles. Income-focused investors may find the 1.05% yield modest compared to higher-yielding sectors, but the low payout ratio and strong FCF coverage mitigate risks of cuts, even in volatile credit markets. Those balancing growth and dividends could value EFX's position in essential data services, though sensitivity to interest rates and consumer spending warrants monitoring. Overall, it suits patient investors favoring sustainability over aggressive yields.

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