How often do most REITs typically pay dividends?

Most Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) typically pay dividends on a quarterly basis. This frequency is largely tied to their operational structure and the nature of the income they generate. Since REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders in order to maintain their favorable tax status, they tend to distribute dividends more frequently than once a year.

Quarterly dividends allow both the REIT and its investors to synchronize income and cash flow on a regular basis, aligning with typical business cycles and providing investors with more immediate returns on their investments. This timing also helps establish a predictable revenue stream for investors, making REITs attractive options for those seeking regular income.

While some options might suggest different frequencies, they don't align with the established practice among the majority of REITs, which is centered on quarterly dividend payouts.