how long should i hold a stock to get the dividend 
to get the dividend you need to hold the stock at least until the ex dividend date if you sell before the ex dividend date you also sell your right to the dividend 1the bottom lineif you re looking to receive dividends knowing when to buy sell and hold a dividend paying stock is important you ll need to buy before the ex dividend date and sell on the ex dividend date or after if you hope to receive the dividend for that stock if you buy after the ex dividend date however you may still be able to take advantage of market adjustments that usually factor in the dividend reducing the purchase price accordingly 