5 Very Safe High-Yield Dividend Stocks Boomers Can Hold Forever

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of high-yield dividend stocks for Baby Boomers seeking reliable income during retirement, especially in light of the modest Social Security cost-of-living adjustment of 2.8% for 2026, which translates to about $56 per retiree per month [1]. Group 1: Dividend Stocks Overview - The article identifies five high-yield dividend stocks that are considered safe and suitable for long-term holding, all offering dividends higher than the 10-year Treasury note's 4.1% [1]. - Since 1926, dividends have contributed approximately 32% to the total return of the S&P 500, highlighting their significance alongside capital appreciation [1]. - A study indicates that dividend stocks delivered an annualized return of 9.18% from 1973 to 2023, significantly outperforming non-payers, which returned 3.95% [1]. Group 2: Featured Companies - Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY): A biopharmaceutical company with a reliable 4.16% dividend, focusing on innovative medicines across various therapeutic areas. Guggenheim has a Buy rating with a target price of $72 [1]. - Comcast (NYSE: CMCSA): A telecommunications and media conglomerate offering a 4.15% dividend, operating through multiple segments including media and connectivity services. TD Cowen has a Buy rating with a target price of $39 [1]. - Ford (NYSE: F): An automotive giant with a 4.33% dividend, involved in the development and servicing of a range of vehicles. J.P. Morgan has an Overweight rating with a target price of $15 [2]. - General Mills (NYSE: GIS): A global food manufacturer with a 4.98% dividend, known for its diverse product offerings. Piper Sandler has an Overweight rating with a target price of $60 [2]. - Verizon (NYSE: VZ): A telecommunications company providing a 5.53% dividend, with a strong interest coverage ratio of 4.6× to 5.0×, indicating a solid capacity for dividend payments. Citigroup has a Buy rating with a target price of $450 [2].