Dividend Details
Recent Dividend History
| Ex-Date | Amount | Pay Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2026-03-16 | $0.8500 | 2026-04-07 |
| 2025-12-15 | $0.8500 | 2026-01-08 |
| 2025-09-15 | $0.8100 | 2025-10-07 |
| 2025-06-16 | $0.8100 | 2025-07-08 |
| 2025-03-17 | $0.8100 | 2025-04-07 |
| 2024-12-16 | $0.8100 | 2025-01-08 |
| 2024-09-16 | $0.7700 | 2024-10-07 |
| 2024-06-17 | $0.7700 | 2024-07-08 |
Calculate MRK Dividend Income
Quick Facts
- Yield: 2.95%
- Frequency: Quarterly
- Sector: Healthcare
- Streak: 13 years
- Payout: 45%
About Merck & Co.
Merck & Co. is a global pharmaceutical leader known for blockbuster drugs like Keytruda (cancer immunotherapy) and Gardasil (HPV vaccine), which together generate tens of billions in annual revenue. The company has increased its dividend for 13 consecutive years, backed by the substantial cash flows from its diversified product portfolio. Merck's deep R&D pipeline and track record of successful drug development provide a foundation for continued dividend growth as new therapies reach the market.
13 consecutive years of dividend increases, — the company has raised its payout through recessions, rate hikes, and market downturns alike.
MRK Dividend FAQ
What is MRK's current dividend yield and payout?
MRK currently yields 2.95% annually, paying $3.32 per share per year based on a share price of $115.87. This translates to $0.8300 per share per quarter. The payout ratio is 45%, which is conservative and well-covered by earnings.
How often does MRK pay dividends?
MRK distributes dividends quarterly, following the standard schedule of most S&P 500 companies. Quarterly payments typically arrive in March, June, September, and December, though exact dates vary. Each payment is approximately $0.8300 per share.
When is MRK's next ex-dividend date?
The next ex-dividend date for MRK is 2026-03-16. To receive the upcoming dividend, you must purchase shares before the ex-dividend date. If you buy on or after the ex-date, the seller receives that payment instead. The payment will be deposited into your brokerage account on 2026-04-07.
How much does $10,000 invested in MRK pay in dividends?
A $10,000 investment in MRK at $115.87 per share buys approximately 86 shares. At the current 2.95% yield, this generates approximately $295 per year, or $25 per month in dividend income before taxes.
How long has MRK been increasing dividends?
MRK has increased its dividend for 13 consecutive years. This growing track record is a positive sign for income investors.
Is MRK's dividend sustainable?
With a payout ratio of 45%, MRK retains a significant portion of earnings for reinvestment and dividend growth, suggesting the current payout is well-covered and sustainable.
MRK Dividend Investing Guide
Merck & Co. (MRK) represents a compelling opportunity for dividend investors seeking balanced yield and growth in their portfolios. As a healthcare sector stock, MRK offers exposure to the healthcare industry with its defensive characteristics and aging population tailwinds.
With 13 consecutive years of dividend increases, MRK has established a solid track record of growing shareholder income. This consistency in dividend growth shows the company can grow its payout while keeping the balance sheet healthy.
To maximize returns from MRK dividends, consider strategies like dividend reinvestment (DRIP) to compound growth over time, tax-efficient account placement for qualified dividends, and portfolio diversification across sectors and payment schedules. Use our DRIP calculator to project long-term growth or our tax calculator to estimate after-tax income from your MRK investment.