Top 3 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold

Bassyonni

Published: March 13, 2026 11:07 PM ET

Top 3 High-Yield Dividend Stocks to Buy and Hold

Investing in high-yield dividend stocks is a strategic way to enhance your portfolio’s stability. These stocks not only provide ongoing passive income but can also serve as safe havens during market downturns. In light of current market volatility, let’s explore the three top high-yield dividend stocks to buy and hold.

1. Realty Income Corp (NYSE: O)

Realty Income, famously dubbed “The Monthly Dividend Company,” offers a compelling yield of approximately 5%. The company recently increased its monthly dividend to $0.2705 per share, payable on April 15, 2026, to shareholders who are on record as of March 31, 2026. This change translates to an annual dividend of $3.246, a slight increase from $3.240.

This real estate investment trust (REIT) specializes in leasing retail space, boasting a portfolio of over 15,600 properties. Some of its most notable tenants include 7-Eleven, Walgreens, and CVS. Realty Income is also proactive in its investment strategies, projecting a significant investment volume of approximately $8 billion for 2026, alongside a forecasted annual growth of around 2.8%.

2. EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR)

EPR Properties continues to shine with a yield of 6.37%. This REIT focuses on entertainment properties, including amusement parks and movie theaters. A dividend payment of $0.295 is set for March 16, 2026, for shareholders recorded by February 27, 2026, which equates to an annualized dividend of $3.54 per share.

The company recently reported strong fourth-quarter earnings, with a funds from operations (FFO) of $1.30, and expectations for 2026 FFO guidance ranging from $5.28 to $5.48 per share. Analysts at RBC Capital have raised their price target for EPR to $59, highlighting its capacity for aggressive capital deployment and its consistency in maintaining dividend payments for 30 consecutive years.

3. Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ)

Verizon stands out with a yield of about 5.6%. It has announced a dividend of $0.7075, reflecting a 2.5% increase from its previous dividend. This payment is scheduled for May 1, 2026, to shareholders recorded by April 10, 2026.

The telecommunications giant reported fourth-quarter earnings with an EPS of $1.09, surpassing expectations by three cents. Total revenue reached $36.4 billion, marking a 2.4% year-over-year increase. Verizon expects total retail postpaid phone net additions to fall between 750,000 and 1 million in 2026, backed by solid analyst support and increased price targets from Raymond James and Scotiabank.

Summary of High-Yield Dividend Stocks

Realty Income (NYSE: O): Yield: 5%, Monthly Dividend: $0.2705, Investment Volume Guidance: ~$8 billion.
EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR): Yield: 6.37%, Upcoming Dividend: $0.295, 2026 FFO Guidance: $5.28-$5.48.
Verizon (NYSE: VZ): Yield: 5.6%, Increased Dividend: $0.7075, 2026 Net Additions Guidance: 750,000 – 1 million.

In conclusion, these three high-yield dividend stocks are excellent options for investors seeking both income and stability. Their strong dividend yields and robust business models make them suitable for a long-term investment strategy.