Dividend tax treatment · 2026
COST Costco Wholesale Corporation
COST pays qualified dividends — taxed at the favorable long-term capital gains rate.
What COST's tax treatment means in dollars
At the current 0.56% yield on $10,000 invested, COST generates approximately $56.00 in annual dividends.
| Scenario | Tax owed | After-tax income |
|---|---|---|
| Qualified rate (15% — most investors) | $8.40 | $47.60 |
| Ordinary income rate (22% bracket) | $12.32 | $43.68 |
Compared to ordinary treatment, the qualified rate saves approximately $3.92/year per $10,000 invested for a 22% bracket investor.
After-tax income by federal bracket — $10,000 invested
The table shows your estimated after-tax dividend income at each federal bracket, under both qualified and ordinary treatment. COST's actual treatment is highlighted.
| Federal bracket | Qualified after-tax | Ordinary after-tax | Tax savings (qualified) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $56.00 | $50.40 | +$5.60 |
| 12% | $56.00 | $49.28 | +$6.72 |
| 22% | $47.60 | $43.68 | +$3.92 |
| 24% | $47.60 | $42.56 | +$5.04 |
| 32% | $47.60 | $38.08 | +$9.52 |
| 37% | $44.80 | $35.28 | +$9.52 |
LTCG/qualified rate: 0% for 10–12% brackets, 15% for 22–35%, 20% for 37%. State taxes not included. Illustrative only — verify with a tax advisor.
Where to hold COST for best tax efficiency
Qualified dividends are taxed at favorable LTCG rates — taxable accounts are efficient. Holding in a Roth wastes the rate preference on income that was already lightly taxed.
General guidance only — your optimal placement depends on your full tax situation, available account types, and other holdings. Consult a tax advisor for personalized advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is COST's dividend qualified or ordinary?
COST pays qualified dividends.
What is COST's after-tax dividend income?
At a 0.56% yield on $10,000 invested, COST generates approximately $56.00/year in gross dividends. After tax: $47.60 at the 15% qualified rate, or $43.68 at a 22% ordinary rate.
Should I hold COST in a Roth, IRA, or taxable account?
Qualified dividends are taxed at favorable LTCG rates — taxable accounts are efficient. Holding in a Roth wastes the rate preference on income that was already lightly taxed.
What is the difference between qualified and ordinary dividends?
Qualified dividends are taxed at the long-term capital gains rate (0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your income), which is significantly lower than ordinary income rates (10%–37%). To qualify, dividends must be paid by a US corporation or qualified foreign corporation, and you must hold the stock for more than 60 days around the ex-dividend date. Ordinary (non-qualified) dividends — common for REITs, covered-call ETFs, and bond funds — are taxed as regular income at your marginal rate.
COST head-to-head comparisons
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