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How do you turn decades of saving into dependable income for the rest of your life? For many retirees, the answer lies in high-quality dividend payers (companies built to generate cash and share it with investors year after year).

Here are three I follow that can anchor a retirement income plan:

Realty Income
Realty Income (O) is known as “The Monthly Dividend Company,” Realty Income owns more than 15,000 properties leased to household names like Walgreens and FedEx. Its rent checks are as reliable as the sunrise, supporting a monthly dividend around 5%. Better yet, O has increased that payout more than 120 times since going public. For steady, predictable income, few REITs come close.

AGNC Preferred Shares
(AGNC) Mortgage REIT common shares can be volatile, but AGNC’s preferred stock offers a sweet spot: high yield with a steadier ride. (AGNCP) carries a fixed-rate dividend backed by a large portfolio of agency mortgage securities - assets with implicit government backing. For retirees who want double-digit annual income potential without the wild swings, AGNCP is a standout.

Ares Capital
(ARCC) Is one of the largest business development companies (BDCs). ARCC lends to mid-sized U.S. companies in industries ranging from software to manufacturing. Its strong underwriting and diversified loan book have powered a generous, stable dividend through multiple cycles. Current yield? About 9%, paid quarterly.

Why This Matters Now
Retirement isn’t about chasing the hottest stocks. It’s about consistent income you can trust. With O’s dependable monthly payments, AGNCP’s high-yield stability, and ARCC’s proven BDC model, you can build a portfolio that keeps paying - through bull markets, bear markets, and everything in between.

Don’t just retire. Retire with income you can count on.

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This article was compiled by my assistant. If there are any mistakes, blame him - I certainly will.

Disclosure: I currently have a position in O . I may frequently trade in the preferred shares of any mortgage REIT and occasionally in the common shares.