1.Canadian Utilities
CU-X.TO (TSX)
Canadian Utilities stands out as a top-rated utility company, boasting 53 consecutive years of dividend increases. With a robust dividend yield of 5.53%, investors can expect reliable income backed by planned investments of $6.1 billion in regulated assets from 2025 to 2027. Despite recent challenges reflected in a 1-year return of -9.71%, the company's strong growth narrative projects significant revenue and earnings increases by 2028, making it an attractive option for income-focused investors.
Pros:
- 53 consecutive years of dividend increases
- $6.1 billion in planned investments in regulated assets
Cons:
- Recent negative performance
- Dependence on regulatory approvals
2.Enbridge
ENB-PT.TO (TSX)
Enbridge stands out as a diversified energy infrastructure company with regulated assets, currently boasting a robust dividend yield of 7.43%. With a strong track record of dividend growth and an analyst rating of B+, it positions itself as an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income. Looking ahead, Enbridge plans to allocate around $10 billion for growth capital in 2026, indicating a commitment to future expansion.
Pros:
- Strong track record of dividend growth
- Diversified energy infrastructure
Cons:
- Valuation risk compared to industry peers
- Potential regulatory challenges
3.Bank of Montreal
BMO.TO (TSX)
The Bank of Montreal stands out with its 197 consecutive years of dividend payments and a robust average growth rate of 5.7% over the last 15 years. Currently offering a dividend yield of 3.53%, the stock has delivered impressive returns of 33.33% over the past year and an exceptional 86.65% over five years, making it an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income and long-term growth potential. Despite receiving a B- rating from analysts, BMO is considered undervalued by 29.1%, suggesting a promising opportunity for those looking to enhance their investment portfolios.
Pros:
- 197 consecutive years of dividend payments
- Average dividend growth of 5.7% annually over the past 15 years
Cons:
- Market volatility risk
- Potentially lower growth compared to tech stocks
4.Alimentation Couche-Tard
ATD.TO (TSX)
Alimentation Couche-Tard is poised for growth, with expectations of a dividend increase of 10% or more by 2026. Despite a slight dip of 0.05% in the past year, the company has delivered an impressive 81.89% return over the last five years, indicating strong long-term potential. Analysts rate the stock a solid B+, with a target price suggesting an upside of approximately 14.74% from its current trading level of around C$74.08.
Pros:
- Expected dividend increase of 10% or more in 2026
- Strong growth potential in convenience retail
Cons:
- Recent underperformance in stock price
- Market competition in retail sector
5.Brookfield Corporation
BN.TO (TSX)
Brookfield Corporation stands out as a diversified investment firm with a promising growth trajectory, anticipated to boost its dividend by 10% or more by 2026. With a current dividend yield of 0.54%, the company has delivered impressive returns of 26.13% over the past year and an astounding 150.64% over the last five years. Despite a C- rating, analyst endorsements from TD Securities, CIBC, and RBC Capital suggest potential for steady performance, making Brookfield an appealing choice for income-focused investors.
Pros:
- Expected dividend increase of 10% or more in 2026
- Diversified investment strategy
Cons:
- Lower dividend yield compared to industry average
- Market volatility risk
6.Fortis
FTS.TO (TSX)
Fortis Inc. (TSX:FTS), a recognized Dividend King with 51 years of consecutive dividend growth, offers an attractive 3.50% yield along with a robust 21.60% return over the past year. This utility company is well-positioned with rate-regulated assets that ensure stable cash flows, appealing to long-term investors seeking reliable income. Despite recent market sentiment pushing the stock into oversold territory, it has shown resilience by surpassing earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters, highlighting its strong fundamentals.
Pros:
- 51 years of dividend growth
- Predictable cash flows from rate-regulated assets
Cons:
- Lower growth potential compared to other sectors
- Regulatory risks in utility sector
7.TC Energy
TRP.TO (TSX)
TC Energy Corporation (TRP) stands out as a reliable investment, boasting 25 consecutive years of dividend increases, which underscores its commitment to delivering consistent payouts. With a current dividend yield of approximately 4.50%, investors can expect strong income potential, complemented by a robust 1-year return of 12.94% and a solid 5-year return of 38.51%. Analysts maintain a positive outlook with a consensus rating of Moderate Buy, further reinforced by price targets suggesting a potential increase of 13.01% from its current value.
Pros:
- 25 consecutive years of dividend increases
- Largely regulated and contracted assets
Cons:
- Potential regulatory risks
- Market sensitivity to energy prices
8.Canadian Natural Resources
CNQ.TO (TSX)
Canadian Natural Resources stands out as a strong investment option for those seeking reliable income, boasting a 5.17% dividend yield and a remarkable track record of 25 consecutive years of dividend increases. Analysts maintain a positive outlook, with ratings such as "Buy" from Goldman Sachs and "Outperform" from RBC Capital, indicating confidence in the company's future performance. Although CNQ has seen a slight decline of 1.41% over the past year, its impressive 5-year return of 168.32% highlights its robust growth potential and financial health.
Pros:
- 25 years of consecutive dividend increases
- Expected dividend increase of 10% or more in 2026
Cons:
- Recent underperformance compared to market
- Exposure to commodity price volatility
9.Vanguard FTSE Canadian High Dividend Yield Index ETF
VDY.TO (TSX)
The Vanguard FTSE Canadian High Dividend Yield Index ETF is an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income and long-term capital growth, boasting a dividend yield of 3.54%. With impressive returns of 26.97% over the past year and 81.91% over five years, this ETF employs a passively managed strategy to provide exposure to a diverse range of Canadian large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks. Its low management expense ratio of 0.22% further enhances its appeal for those looking to maximize their investment efficiency.
Pros:
- Diversified exposure to high-dividend Canadian stocks
- Low management expense ratio of 0.22%
Cons:
- Market risk associated with equity investments
- Dependence on performance of underlying stocks
Final Words
As you consider the best high-yield dividend stocks this January 2026 in Canada, remember to evaluate your options carefully. Take time to compare the performance and stability of these investments to ensure they align with your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bank of Montreal (BMO.TO) is considered a top high-yield dividend stock due to its 197 consecutive years of dividend payments and an average annual dividend growth of 5.7% over the past 15 years. Additionally, it offers a dividend yield of 3.53% and impressive long-term returns.
In the last year, Bank of Montreal has achieved a return of 33.33%, with a 5-year return of 86.65% and a remarkable 10-year return of 150.66%. This consistent performance makes it an attractive option for dividend investors.
Bank of Montreal pays dividends quarterly, with the next dividend scheduled for February 26, 2026. The upcoming dividend is set at $1.6700.
When investing in high-yield dividend stocks, consider the company's dividend history, payout ratio, and overall financial health. It's also important to evaluate market conditions and the stock's potential for capital appreciation.
Investing in dividend stocks involves risks such as market volatility, interest rate fluctuations, and the potential for dividend cuts. It's crucial to assess these risks in relation to your investment goals and risk tolerance.
Bank of Montreal stands out among Canadian banks for its long history of dividend payments and consistent growth. Comparing dividend yields and payout ratios across different banks can help you identify which may offer better returns based on your investment strategy.


