Apple (AAPL) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• Apple pays a quarterly dividend of $0.26 per share, yielding approximately 0.38%.
• Annualized dividend of $1.04 with a low payout ratio of 13%, indicating strong sustainability.
• Dividend growth streak of 14 years with average annual increases around 4-5%.
• Free cash flow exceeding $100 billion annually easily covers dividend payments.
• Low yield compared to some peers like MSFT, but superior payout safety in tech sector.
• Recent ex-dividend date February 9, 2026; next expected May 2026.

Dividend Overview

Apple (AAPL) maintains a modest quarterly dividend policy, paying $0.26 per share, which annualizes to $1.04. This results in a current yield of about 0.38-0.40%, based on recent stock prices. Payments occur every three months, typically in February, May, August, and November. Apple is not a high-yield stock but qualifies as a dividend growth stock, prioritizing share repurchases alongside steady dividend hikes. Its profile appeals to investors seeking reliable income from a tech powerhouse with exceptional cash generation, rather than outsized yields.

Dividend History and Growth

Apple reinstated dividends in 2012 after a long hiatus and has consistently increased them since, achieving a 14-year growth streak. Recent quarterly payments have held at $0.26, up from prior levels like $0.25, reflecting annual growth rates of approximately 4% over the past few years (e.g., 4.04% from 2024 to 2025). Over five years, dividend growth averages 5%. This steady progression aligns with Apple's long-term strategy of returning capital via dividends and aggressive buybacks, supported by robust iPhone sales and services revenue.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

Apple's dividend is highly sustainable, with a payout ratio of around 13%—well below industry norms, leaving ample room for growth. Earnings per share (EPS) comfortably cover payments, and free cash flow (FCF) hit $108.8 billion in fiscal 2024, dwarfing the roughly $15 billion annual dividend outlay. Low debt levels and a net cash position further bolster stability. Coverage ratios exceed 7x via FCF, signaling no risk of cuts even in downturns.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the technology sector, Apple's 0.38% yield is typical for growth-oriented giants. Peer MSFT offers ~0.82%, reflecting a slightly higher payout, while GOOGL pays none, focusing on reinvestment. NVDA recently initiated a small dividend with minimal yield. Apple's conservative approach—low yield but ultra-low payout ratio—stands out for safety versus peers' varying profiles, making it average-to-low in yield but top-tier in reliability.

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Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

Apple (AAPL) suits dividend growth investors and long-term holders prioritizing capital appreciation alongside modest income. Its low yield deters pure income seekers chasing 3-5%+ payouts, but the impeccable 14-year increase streak and sub-15% payout ratio appeal to those valuing compounding growth. Conservative investors appreciate the fortress balance sheet, with FCF coverage ensuring resilience through cycles. For tech enthusiasts, Apple's ecosystem dominance supports ongoing hikes, though buybacks (~$90B annually) compete with dividend expansion. Balanced portfolios may include AAPL for diversification, blending growth potential with reliable—if slim—quarterly returns. Suitability varies by risk tolerance and yield requirements.

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