[bruxis]

I generally agree on not choosing dividend stocks (a solid ETF can include a reasonable dividend payout, which feels more like a bonus), but just a note that the tax rate on qualified dividends is the same as long term capital gains (0%, 15%, 20%).

Not all dividends can be qualified (payouts from REITs for example are a common exception), but most typical blue chip stocks that pay dividends will become qualified after holding the underlying asset for enough time.