9 Income Stocks With Positive Dividend Trends

When evaluating a dividend stock, one of the criteria I look for is a rising dividend stream over time. I prefer to invest in companies which have consistently raised dividends for at least ten years in a row. I also examine the dividend record using as much historical data as available. I specifically look for prior dividend cuts, a pattern of significant dividend increases as well as a history of significant distribution payments.Most importantly, I look for the trend in dividend payments to be higher each year. I have highlighted the following stocks, which have raised dividends for more than five years in a row and also announced distribution increases over the past week:Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. (KMP) owns and manages energy transportation and storage assets. This MLP raised its quarterly distributions to $1.14/unit. This dividend achiever has consistently raised distributions for fifteen years in a row.... Read more