Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.
S&P 500TDS/Communication Services · Telecom Services/NYSE
Dividend Yield
0.41%
$0.16 · Annual Dividend
Dividend Safety Rating
TDS's dividend shows some areas that warrant monitoring. Strengths include a 9.4% earnings payout ratio & 31.9% cfo payout ratio. Areas of concern: 1581.6% fcf payout ratio & 1.8x interest coverage.
Based on 15 of 15 metrics
Strengths
- Earnings Payout Ratio: 9.4%Low earnings payout ratio leaves room to grow the dividend.
- Net Debt / Total Assets: 7.6%Healthy balance sheet with low net debt.
- Current Ratio: 3.4xStrong short-term liquidity to meet obligations.
Risks
- FCF Payout Ratio: 1581.6%Free cash flow is tight relative to the dividend.
- Operating Margin: -1.2%Operating margin is thin and pressures the dividend.
- 5-Year Dividend CAGR: -25.1%Dividend growth has been weak or negative.
Payout & Coverage
CautionBalance Sheet
Very SafeProfitability
CautionDividend Track Record
CautionAbout Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.
Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. is a diversified telecommunications company providing essential communications services across the United States to consumers, businesses, and government entities. It operates primarily through three key segments: UScellular Wireless, which delivers wireless telecommunications services including connected Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, software applications for business automation, fleet management, security, and private cellular networks; UScellular Towers, which leases tower space to other wireless carriers; and TDS Telecom, offering broadband, video, voice, and fiber-based services through coaxial, copper, and advanced networks. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and founded in 1968, the company supports retail wireless connections and infrastructure vital to modern connectivity. With approximately 7,900 employees, Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. plays a significant role in the telecommunications sector by bridging traditional telephony with emerging wireless and broadband technologies, contributing to national communication infrastructure while navigating operational challenges through strategic asset management and segment diversification.
Dividend Overview
Dividend Yield
0.41%
Annual Dividend
$0.16
Frequency
Quarterly
Payout Ratio
9.41%
FCF Payout Ratio
1581.56%
52-Week Range
$34.12 - $49.12
Dividend History (2016–2025)
TDS annual dividend per share and yield history
Earnings & Profitability
TDS earnings per share and net profit margin
Key Dates
Last Ex-Dividend Date
June 16, 2026
Next Payment Date
June 30, 2026
Dividend Growth
3-Year Dividend CAGR
-39.43%
5-Year Dividend CAGR
-25.13%
10-Year Dividend CAGR
-11.84%
3-Year Total Growth
-77.78%
5-Year Total Growth
-76.47%
10-Year Total Growth
-71.63%
Income Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
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How is TDS's Dividend Safety Rating calculated?
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This page is not investment advice. The content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security. Always do your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.
Financial data, including dividend history, earnings, balance sheet metrics, and the Dividend Safety Rating, is provided for informational purposes only. Data may be delayed or differ from official filings. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Always verify with official sources before making investment decisions.
Market data provided by Twelve Data.