• Total dividend income projected in 2019 is $524.92.
• $14.07 was added since the December income projection.
• An average of $43.74 per month is expected.

I can’t believe it has been a month since the December income projection. Time goes by quickly during the holiday season, huh?

Overall, dividend income growth slowed in January compared to December. $14.07 in annual income was added since the December report. On the other hand, $50.41 was added during the period that preceded the December report.

Nevertheless, the portfolio is now expected to generate at least $524.92 in 2019, which is an average of $43.74. Of course, by dollar cost averaging into positions on a monthly basis, I am expecting to earn at least $670 over the next 12 months. I am basing this target on last year’s performance, considering that $170 more was earned than what was projected at the beginning of 2018.

I built a passive income stream of $524.92 in only 1.5 years

Instead of reviewing the numbers as per usual, I wanted to comment on how I was able to reach this point.

Let me put it this way—I don’t live at home with my parents or receive any help. I haven’t since I was 21 either. Frankly, I don’t even make a lot of money. I mean I’m grateful to have the job I have—it’s a good job, and I’m fortunate to earn a decent living. I wouldn’t say I’m earning a high level of income, though. It’s average.

This just goes to show that anyone can build a passive income portfolio, even while still paying off their student loan debt. *May not be the best option depending on your financial situation*

Through paying myself first, I saved over $5,500 last year. Because of my diligence with saving and dollar cost averaging, I added an extra $290 to my annual income in 2018. That’s passive income that I’ll receive forever.

Now, since my goal is to save at least $6,000 in 2019, I will save at least $6,524.92 when factoring in dividend income. And this process of incremental savings and dividend increases will repeat year after year. Just imagine how compound interest will impact my ability to save money in 10 years down the road.

Monthly Payment Outlook for 2019

The portfolio will earn over $50 in 8 out of the next 12 months. That’s pretty cool considering I earned a total of $58.14 during the entire year of 2017!

What’s more is that the highest paying month switched during the final quarter of 2018. The March, June, September, and December months are now projected to pay $55.81 per month. Last year, however, the highest paying month was October.

This change occurred mostly as a result of a merger but it was also expected. In order to diversify the portfolio, I decided to lower contributions to an employer plan around mid 2018. That money was then used to fund my TFSA instead to acquire different Canadian dividend paying stocks.

As for the 4 months that earn less than $50 per month, there are 3 positions I plan on acquiring that pay during these months. 2 of these positions trade on the U.S. market, so I am building up cash in my RRSP and waiting for price dips.

Concluding Thoughts

In short, this blog is proof that anyone can reach financial independence through investing.

My aim is to show that financial independence through investing is possible on an average income while living an average lifestyle. An above average lifestyle, to be honest. Technology has given us the ability to live better than any generation before us.

Through saving a minimum of 10%, plus extra when I can afford it, I have built a passive income stream that will help me save more this year. And all I had to do is pay myself first.

In summary, passive income has increased by $14.07 compared to December’s projection. Total dividend income projected over the next 12 months is $524.92. I look forward to reinvesting the additional income along with the $6,000 I plan to save this year.