For many investors, dividend-focused stocks and funds provide a way to generate passive income, whether to supplement retirement, cover day-to-day expenses, or even finance small luxuries like annual vacations.

While some aim for significant dividend payouts to replace their salary, others are happy with modest but constant returns that offer a little extra financial freedom.

Don't Miss:

This is the case of a Reddit user who is exploring this approach. With $30,000 to invest, he's seeking long-term dividend stocks that can grow over the next 20 years until retirement. While he already holds dividend-paying stocks like Apple AAPL and Walt Disney  DIS, he wants to expand his portfolio for stability and future income, even if it's just enough to cover yearly vacations.

“I currently have some stocks that give out dividends (Apple, Disney) but I’m looking for others. Long-term stability, that my wife and I can use the dividends as another form of income say in 20 years. Even if it’s just enough to pay for a yearly vacation here or there. Any thoughts on good companies to choose from?” he asked.

Let’s break down the Redditors’ advice received in the comment section.

Trending: BlackRock is calling 2025 the year of alternative assets. One firm from NYC has quietly built a group of 60,000+ investors who have all joined in on an alt asset class previously exclusive to billionaires like Bezos and Gates.

Where to Invest $30,000 to Generate Enough Income to Cover Yearly Vacations? Reddit Answers

Put the Money in an ETF

Several commenters recommended Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF SCHD as a core holding because of its dividend yield, historical growth, and the low-risk, diversified exposure it offers investors.

“Go all in SCHD. Low risk, nice 3.5% starting yield and it will just keep growing,” a commenter said.

Reinforcing the idea that SCHD fits the poster’s long-term stability and dividend payout need, this Redditor also suggested he goes with SCHD: “Since you want some growth and decent payout, SCHD is a great option. 3.5% dividends and 11% growth over the last 10 years each year.”

“I would stick with S&P 500 ETFs being young. Put it in a self-direct investment retirement account to avoid taxes,” a comment reads.

See Also: Have $200K saved? Here's how to turn it into lasting wealth

Consider High-Yield Dividend Stocks and Trusts

Several commenters suggested higher-yield assets that would generate higher payouts for the investor in the long run.

“If you want higher yield stocks check: [Verizon Communications VZ], [AT&T T], [Realty Income Corporation O], [Altria Group MO], [British American Tobacco BTI],” a Redditor recommended.

A commenter mentioned United Parcel Service UPS as a great pick since the company seems to start focusing on higher profit margin areas.

“UPS pays a solid dividend and the share price has been beaten down a lot on the news that they are reducing Amazon deliveries to focus on higher profit margin areas,” he said.

Suggesting a very detailed portfolio allocation, this Redditor mentioned several ETFs and individual stocks that he considers would help the poster reach his dividend and growth goals.

“[Vanguard S&P 500 ETF VOO] $5,000, 1.25% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] SCHD $5,000, 3.5% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan], [JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF JEPI], [JPMorgan Nasdaq Equity Premium Income ETF JEPQ​] ($5,000), 8% combined dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Old Republic International Corporation ORI] $2,000, 3% dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Waste Management WM] and [Automatic Data Processing ADP] ($3,000), 2% average dividend. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [Pfizer PFE] and [Johnson & Johnson JNJ] $2,000, 4.75% average dividend. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] [JPMorgan Chase & Co. JPM] and [UnitedHealth Group Incorporated UNH] $2,000, 2% average dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] AAPL and [Microsoft MSFT] $2,000. [The Coca-Cola Company KO] and MO $2,000, 5% average dividends. Do [dividend reinvestment plan] JPM or [American Express AXP] $2,000. JPM has good potential growth,” the suggestion says.

Read Next:

Got Questions? Ask
Which dividend stocks are best for stability?
How do high-yield stocks compare in growth?
Will UPS rebound due to profit focus?
Are ETFs better for long-term dividends?
Which tech stocks offer reliable dividends?
How could dividend reinvestment plans boost income?
What impact do interest rates have on dividend stocks?
Which consumer staples are great for dividend income?
How will market conditions affect dividend payouts?
What are the risks of investing in dividend stocks?
Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

Posted In: