Introduction

This article is not even near completion; however, a few people noticed it in the blog line-up and asked for a preview.  So, I have decided to publish it early, but it will be updated pretty regularly over the next six to eight months.

Introduction to DRIPs 

DRIPS are dividend reinvestment plans, whereby some or all of a cash payment is reinvested as shares of common stock.  They allow investors to benefit from a compounding effect: earning dividends on previously issued dividends.  The advantages and disadvantages of DRIP programs are discussed later.  The process of how to set up a DRIP directly with a company; that is, without using a brokerage service, is also described.

The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation

The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, the DTCC, is a holding company that combines the Depository Trust Corporation, the DTC, and the National Securities Clearing Corporation, the NSCC and a number of other similar entities.  The DTC essentially stands behind brokers and similar entities offering clearance and settlement services for equities (shares), bonds, mutual funds, etc.   The DTC first implemented a new approach to registering shareholders without the need for physical stock certificates.  The Direct Registration System, discussed next, was started in 1996.

The Direct Registration System (DRS) 

This section describes the Direct Registration System.  When you buy shares, there are three ways in which they can be registered, meaing how the securities are held:

•  "Street name" is the most common in that the shares are held in the name of your broker.  So the entity that issue the shares records your broker as the owner or holder of those securities; the broker holds the shares for each of its customers in what's called "book entry" form.  The brokerage firm keeps track of your shares in its accounting system?its books?linking the correct number of shares to your brokerage account.  Holding shares in Street Name means that a certificate of ownership isn't issued.
• Shares held in "your name"; that is, shares for which you hold the certificate.  If you have a physical certificate, the entity that issued the shares holds your name as the registered shareholder in its recording keeping system?its books.  The disadvantage of holding a certificate is that it can be stolen or, much more likely, lost.  When I say "lost," I mean it's in your possession, but you have no idea where you left it.  Stories abound of people going through grandmothers or great uncles possessions after they are deceased and find stock certificates from the 1950s.  It's a bit of a mess finding out how much those shares are now worth and recovering fifty years of missing dividends!
• Direct Registration means that the securities (the shares) are once again recorded in your name in the record keeping system of the entity that issued the shares (the company in which you own the shares); however, you don't have a physical certificate.  Instead, the issuing company or another entity called a "transfer agent" holds the security for you.  The security is once again recorded in "book entry" form, so the DRS system, in some respects is a hybrid of the first two systems described above; the DRS lowers costs.  The DRS is an electronic system which greatly facilitates the transfer of securities.

There are advantages and disadvantages to all three systems.  Holding certificates in your name, the physical certificate, is the most expensive option.  Selling securities takes time.  Most shares owned by individual investors are held in Street Name.  Companies that offer DRIPs, discussed in a moment, almost always use the DRS, the direct registration system.  Most DRIP and DSP plans subscribe to the Direct Registration System.

Transfer Agent

A transfer agent is a trust company or bank that keeps track of the shareholders of a company.  There are cases, listed below, where a company is its own transfer agent, but in most cases the company elects one of a handful of entities to serve in this function.  The transfer agent keeps track of where the shares are; it tries to track physical stock certificates; it can act as an intermediary in the payment of dividends; when you get one of those proxy statements, it is normally issued and received by the transfer agent as are periodic reports.  The transfer agent may also run a dividend investment and a direct stock purchase plan.  Common transfer agents include:

• BNY Mellon is active in many DRIP programs for individual investors
• Computershare is among the more active agents in DRIPs 
• Registrar and Trust Company
• Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is the transfer agent for over five hundred public companies

In the lists of companies offering DRIPs, provided below, the transfer agent will also be provided.  If no transfer agent is indicated, it is likely that the company performs these activities for itself.

Direct Stock Purchase Plans (DSPs)

Most companies require people to own one or more shares of the company before they can join a DRIP.  Many require one share listed with the company transfer agent which means that they are registered in the persons name or through the DRS.  Others, such as Disney, require as many as five shares.  DSP programs usually have a one-time fee ranging from $5 to $20 to set up the program; other companies pay for these fees for the investor.  Some waive the fee if a shareholder sets up automatic withdrawal of a fixed amount from a linked checking account for a specified period of time (often three to twelve months).  In 1995, the SEC eased the regulations required to set up such plans.  Today, almost 400 publicly traded companies have direct stock purchase plans.

Share Purchase Plan

A share purchase plan or SPP allows people enrolled in a dividend reinvestment plan to make additional, optional cash payments (OCP) and acquire more shares of the company.  These cash payments are often pooled and shares purchased on a single day each month; some companies purchase shares once a week.  Shares are assigned to participants in the plan through the DRS in proportion to the size of each cash payment.  Once purchased, these new shares will have dividends reinvested according to the instructions of the owner of those shares.

Plans often impose certain restrictions on OCPs.  Almost all plans have a minimal amount, ranging from $10 to as much as $250.  Plans also place limits on the maximum number of shares that can be acquired in a given period of time, ranging from $50,000 a year to as high as $250,000 annually.

These payments are optional.  A participant may elect not to make any payments for months or even years at a time.

Many plans do not charge to purchase more shares of the company; however, it is critical to read the prospectus and company disclosures for fees associated with the plans.  Some charge a small percentage; others may charge as much as $5 per purchase.

Shares may be purchased on the open market by the transfer agent or supplied by the company directly.  When acquired on the open market, the funds of  the participants in the plan are normally pooled by the transfer agent.  The price per share paid by each participant is often assigned as the weighted average price of all shares purchased during an investment period.  Each account in the plan is credited with the appropriate number of shares.  Most programs offer not only full shares but also fractional shares.  Fractional shares are usually computed to three and sometimes four decimal places.  So, it's not unusual to, say, send a check for $200 and discover you own 8.1253 shares of a company that was hovering around $25 a share.  Some companies, often REITs and sometimes utilities, offer a small discount to the market price for purchased shares.

Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs)

A DRIP, or dividend reinvestment plan, (sometimes abbreviated as DRiP) is a program offered by many brokers and some companies whereby the investor of owner of shares receives periodic dividend payments in the form of reinvested shares rather than in cash.  DRIPs maybe set up within the brokerage account at companies such as Zecco; DRIPs may also be established directly with public companies through a transfer agent.   Some programs allow investors to receive a portion of their dividend as cash, reinvesting the remainder in shares of the company.  When such partial reinvestment is an option, shareholders are normally asked to select the percentage of the dividend, in increments of 10%, that should be paid as cash.  Zecco has a dividend reinvestment program; however, this program only permits the purchase of whole shares of a company.  As an example, if a company is trading at $10 a share and a person receives dividend payments of $15, in the Zecco plan, $10 of that payment would be used to buy one additional share of the company and the balance would be paid as cash.  The owner of the shares is still liable to pay taxes on the full value of the dividend: $15.  If dividends were reinvested at a discount, there could be an additional tax liability.

Withdrawing from a DRIP

Some DRIPs have a small termination fee when a person wishes to leave the plan, others have none.  Selling shares through the plan can sometimes be an expensive option.  While some DRIPs may charge a few dollars for an optional cash investment, almost all DRIPs charge between $5 and $20 (may a per share fee too) to sell shares.  Selling shares through a plan can be an expensive proposition; however, there are other options: often shares (all or some) may be transferred to a brokerage account at little or now charge.  When closing account, the proceeds from the sale of fractional shares are usually deposited into a linked checking account.

Transferring Shares to another Account

Many plans permit the transfer of shares from one account to another at little if any charge.  The shares can be easily transferred to most brokerage accounts.  If shares are transferred to an individual who doesn't participate in the plan, the transfer agent may create an account for that person.  Once created, the person has full privileges in the plan and may make additional optional cash payments and reinvest dividends like any other plan member.  It's important to read the plan prospectus carefully for full disclosure of how shares may be transferred and the implications of such a transfer.

Other ways to participate

Some companies offer services that allow you to purchase a single share of a company.  These companies either facilitate issuance of a stock certificate to you or, more likely register you as the owner through the DRS.  Binging the query "How can I buy a single share of a company?" displays a number of results.  Obviously, caution is in order in dealing with any such companies; however, there are reputable enterprises that will facilitate the purchase of a single share in the common stock of most publicly traded companies.

Advantages and Disadvantages of DRIPs

What are the advantages of DRIPs 

Advantages of DRIPs include:

• Many plans offer a very inexpensive and convenient way to purchase shares of common stock without paying any fees or commissions
• Most plans allow the participant the choice of having cash dividends payable on all or a portion of your shares of reinvested, thus allowing those dividends to benefit form compounded growth over time
• Plans allow regular optional cash investments in shares of the common stock of a given company

What are the disadvantages of DRIPs 

DRIPs have disadvantages in that they are probably best suited for patient investors with a tendency to buy companies and hold them for an extended period of time.

• Those who participate in DRIPs and DSP programs are not be able to time the purchase and determine the price of activities in the account.  As such, a participant carries the market risk associated with fluctuations in the price of shares of stock in a company
• Some companies place restrictions on how you can sell shares; for example, some have a lower limit to the number of shares you can sell.  This limit could be 50 to 200 shares.  It may be necessary to transfer shares out of the account to sell them.  Please check the plan prospectus before joining a program.
• No interest is paid on deposits or cash dividends to be reinvested.  If an optional cash payment is delayed, it could sit idle for a month before another purchase window opens up.

DRIPs aren't generally suited for people who like to trade frequently.

What Types of Companies offer DSPs and DRIPs?

It turns out that most major, US companies have dividend reinvestment programs that include optional cash purchases.  I know of no company that doesn't permit a participant to buy more shares of stock in the company.  Thanks to a change in regulations about ten years ago, more companies now offer direct stock purchase plans; that is the ability for shareholders to buy the first share directly from the company.

List of companies with DSPs and DRIPs

Listed next are companies that offer direct stock purchase plans and dividend reinvestment plans.  The list is divided into three sections: the first list, List 1, includes companies that have no charges (or little charge) for cash purchases and dividend reinvestment.  Where a company does have fees, these are disclosed.  Some companies charge a tiny amount for the activity?pennies in most cases?so they are included in this section.  Most companies have to recurring charges, just a nominal, one-time set up fee.

The second list, List 2, consists of DRIPs that do not have a DSP.  This list focuses on companies that have no recurring charge for optional cash purchases and dividend reinvestment.  This list is in development.

The next section contains companies with charges.  Little effort will be made on this list, so it will grow slowly over time.

Plans change over time.  The information provided is believed to have been accurate at the time it was researched.  However, a plan fee structure may have changed since this document was written.  It is your (the reader's) responsibility to verify the accurate of any and all information contained below and to read and understand the prospectus for each plan.

List 1: Companies offering DSPs and DRIPs with no fees

AFLAC [NYSE:AFL]

AFLAC is an insurance company based in Georgia.  It does business in the United States and was the first US insurance companies to break into the Japanese market.

• AFLAC stock plan enrollment form and prospectus document
• Initial investment required: $1,000
• No charge for purchase of stock in the plan
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge

AGL Resources [NYSE: AGL]

AGL resources is an Atlanta-based distributor of natural gas.

• Link to the AGL prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $50
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Allete Corporation [NYSE: ALE]

Allete delivers energy services in the upper Midwest; it owns a lignite mine in North Dakota and has investments in real estate and the American Transmission Company.

• Link to the AGL prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternative enrollment commitment of $50 with six monthly investments of $50 each
• Offers custodial accounts
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $10
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Alliant Energy Corporation [NYSE:LNT]

Alliant Energy Corporation generates, purchases, distributes and sells electricity energy and natural gas.  It serves over 1.4 million customers in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.

• Link to the Alliant Energy prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• Enrollment fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested
• Dividend reinvestment fee $0.50 per reinvestment
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

American Electric Power [NYSE:AEP]

American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765-kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. AEP’s transmission system directly or indirectly serves about 10 percent of the electricity demand in the Eastern Interconnection, the interconnected transmission system that covers 38 eastern and central U.S. states and eastern Canada, and approximately 11 percent of the electricity demand in ERCOT, the transmission system that covers much of Texas. AEP’s utility units operate as AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east Texas).  AEP’s headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio.

• Link to the American Electric Power investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form link on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250 (or ten ongoing investments of $25)
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at least one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan offers IRA (Roth and Traditional) and Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Aqua America, Inc [NYSE:WTR]

Aqua America, Inc. is a U.S.-based publicly-traded water and wastewater utility, serving approximately 3 million people in Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Illinois, Texas, New Jersey, New York, Indiana, Florida, Virginia, Maine, Missouri and Georgia.  Aqua America is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol WTR.  Its aggressive growth-through-acquisition strategy has resulted in nearly 200 acquisitions and growth ventures in the last ten years. These growth ventures have allowed Aqua America to achieve its growth goals and has had a favorable impact on its financial performance.

• Link to the Aqua America investor relations site and DSP and DRIP program details, enrollment form link to other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: none
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at least five shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Ashland [NYSE:ASH]

Ashland Inc. is a global specialty chemicals company that provides products, services and solutions for many of the world’s most essential industries, including building and construction, food/pharmaceutical/personal care, packaging and converting, paint and coatings, pulp and paper, transportation and water treatment.  Ashland has more than $8 billion in revenue and nearly one-fourth of company earnings derived from products featuring renewable resources and is listed among the FORTUNE 500 and S&P MidCap 400 companies.

• Link to the Ashland, Inc. investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: none
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Bank of America, Inc. [NYSE:BAC]

Bank of America is one of the world's largest financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small- and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides convenience in the United States, serving approximately 57 million consumer and small business relationships with approximately 5,900 retail banking offices and approximately 18,000 ATMs and award-winning online banking with 29 million active users.  Bank of America is among the world's leading wealth management companies and is a global leader in corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business owners through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations in more than 40 countries.

• Link to the Bank of America investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $1000
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Becton, Dickinson and Company, Inc. [NYSE:BD]

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) is a global medical technology company that is focused on improving drug delivery, enhancing the diagnosis of infectious diseases and cancers, and advancing drug discovery. BD develops, manufactures and sells medical supplies, devices, laboratory instruments, antibodies, reagents and diagnostic products through its three segments: BD Medical, BD Diagnostics and BD Biosciences. It serves healthcare institutions, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, the pharmaceutical industry and the general public.

• Link to the Becton Dickinson investor relation site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Black Hills Corporation [NYSE:BKH] 

Black Hills Corporation is a diversified energy company operating principally in the United States with two major business groups: utilities and non-regulated energy.

• Link to the Black Hills Corporation prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternative enrollment $25 automatic checking account withdrawals a month for ten months
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Boston Properties, Inc. [NYSE:BXP]

Boston Properties is a fully integrated, self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust that develops, redevelops, acquires, manages, operates and owns a diverse portfolio of Class-A office, including one hotel. The Company is one of the largest owners and developers of Class-A office properties in the United States, concentrated in five markets - Boston, Washington, D.C., Midtown Manhattan, San Francisco and Princeton, N.J.

• Link to the Boston Properties investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Additional shares may be purchased for a nominal charge of five cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

CH Energy Group, Inc. [NYSE:CHG]

CH Energy Group, Inc. is predominantly an energy distribution company headquartered in Poughkeepsie, New York.  Regulated transmission and distribution utility operations are provided through subsidiary Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation (Central Hudson), serving approximately 300,000 electric and 74,000 natural gas customers in eight counties of New York State’s Mid-Hudson River Valley.

CH Energy Group, Inc. also operates subsidiary Central Hudson Enterprises Corporation (CHEC), a non-regulated subsidiary comprised of a fuel distribution business, Griffith Energy Services (Griffith), and several renewable energy investments.  Griffith supplies petroleum products and related services to approximately 56,000 customers in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

• Link to the CH Energy Group investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Chemical Financial Corporation [NASDAQ:CHFC]

Chemical Financial Corporation is a diversified financial services company which operates through one state-chartered commercial bank subsidiary, Chemical Bank.  Chemical Bank operates through an internal organizational structure of four regional banking units, offering a full range of commercial banking and fiduciary products and services to the residents and business customers in the bank's geographical market areas.  Chemical serves a broad customer base through 142 banking offices across 32 counties in the lower peninsula of Michigan.

The Corporation is headquartered in Midland, Michigan, and had total assets of $5.40 billion at September 30, 2010.  In addition to its banking offices, the Corporation had 162 ATM locations, both on- and off-bank premises.  The Corporation offers trust and investment management services, including financial and estate planning, retirement programs, investment management and custodial services and employee benefit programs through the Chemical Bank Wealth Management department of Chemical Bank.  At September 30, 2010, Chemical Bank Wealth Management had assets under custodial and management arrangements of $1.99 billion.

• Link to the Chemical Financial Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $50
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation [NYSE:CPK]

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is a diversified utility company engaged in natural gas distribution, transmission and marketing; electric distribution; propane gas distribution and wholesale marketing; advanced information services and other related services.

• Link to the Chesapeake Utilities Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Clarcor [NYSE:CLC]

Clarcor is based in Franklin, Tennessee, and is a diversified marketer and manufacturer of mobile, industrial and environmental filtration products and consumer and industrial packaging products sold in domestic and international markets.

• Link to the Clarcor investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $500
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Colonial Properties Trust, Inc. [NYSE:CLP]

Colonial Properties Trust is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that creates value for its shareholders through a multifamily focused portfolio and the management and development of select commercial assets in the Sunbelt region of the United States.   As of June 30, 2010, the company owned or managed 34,230 apartment units and 17.8 million square feet of commercial space. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Colonial Properties Trust is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CLP and is included in the S&P SmallCap 600 Index.

• Link to the Colonial Properties Trust investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $200
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Discounts may be available for the purchase or reinvestment of shares of this company
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Community Central Bank Corporation [NASDAQ:CCBD]

Community Central Bank Corporation, founded in 1996, is a publicly-held bank holding company for Community Central Bank. Community Central Bank operates four branches serving consumers, businesses of various sizes and specialties, government entities and non-profit organizations.  The branches are located in Mt. Clemens, Rochester Hills and Grosse Pointe Farms, and Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan; all suburbs of the Detroit Metropolitan area.  Also located in Mt. Clemens, MI is the administration building which houses management, commercial lending, operations and mortgage departments.  Divisions of the Corporation include: Community Central Bank, Community Central Mortgage Company, LLC, River Place Trust, and Community Central Wealth Management.

Community Central Bank provides a wide range of banking services including: checking, savings, money market accounts, and CDs.  The Bank originates secured and unsecured commercial, construction and consumer loans, as well as consumer mortgages.  The Trust and Wealth Management divisions round out the services by offering trust counseling and management, as well as financial planning strategies.

• Link to the Community Central Bank investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Dr Pepper Snapple Group [NYSE:DPS]

Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc. is an integrated refreshment beverage business marketing more than 50 beverage brands to consumers throughout North America. In addition to its flagship Dr Pepper and Snapple brands, the company’s portfolio includes 7UP, Mott’s, A&W, Sunkist Soda, Hawaiian Punch, Canada Dry, Schweppes, Squirt, RC Cola, Diet Rite, Penafiel, Rose’s, Yoo-hoo, Clamato, Mr & Mrs T and other well-known consumer favorites. Based in Plano, Texas, Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc., employs approximately 19,000 people and operates 24 bottling and manufacturing facilities and more than 200 distribution centers across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

• Link to the Dr Pepper Snapple Group investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: $15
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Edison International [NYSE:EIX]

Edison International, through its subsidiaries, is a generator and distributor of electric power and an investor in infrastructure and energy assets, including renewable energy.  Headquartered in Rosemead, California (near Los Angeles), Edison International is the parent company of Southern California Edison—a regulated electric utility—and Edison Mission Group, a competitive power generation business.

• Link to the Edison International prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $1,000
• Alternative enrollment $10 a month automatic checking account withdrawals for ten months
• One-time enrollment fee of $15
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Entertainment Properties Trust [NYSE:EPR]

Entertainment Properties Trust (EPR) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that develops, owns, leases and finances properties for consumer-preferred, high-quality businesses.  Our total assets exceed $2.9 billion and include megaplex movie theatres and entertainment retail centers, as well as other destination recreational and specialty investments.

• Link to the Entertainment Properties Trust investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $200
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Equity Residential [NYSE:EQP]

Equity Residential (EQR) is an S&P 500 company focused on the acquisition, development and management of high quality apartment properties in top U.S. growth markets. Equity Residential owns or has investments in more than 470 properties in 18 states and the District of Columbia.  Equity Residential builds value for our shareholders, residents and employees by combining the resources of a large company and a national presence with strong local management and expertise.

• Link to the Equity Residential investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $250
• There is a nominal charge of $0.05 a share for purchases of new shares
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Exxon Mobil [NYSE:XOM]

ExxonMobil is the world’s largest publicly traded international oil and gas company. XOM holds an industry-leading inventory of global oil and gas resources.  Exxon Mobil Corporation is the world’s largest refiner and marketer of petroleum products and its associated chemical company ranks among the world’s largest.  XOM is also a technology company, applying science and innovation to find better, safer and cleaner ways to deliver the energy the world needs.

• Link to the Exxon Mobil Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• The company also offers traditional and Roth IRAs and Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts through the stock plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Federal Signal [NYSE:FSS]

Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) enhances the safety, security and well-being of communities and workplaces around the world. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and institutional customers.

• Link to the Federal Signal Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $1000
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Additional shares may be purchases at a nominal fee of four cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

First American Financial Corporation [NYSE: FAF] 

First American provides financial services through its Title Insurance and Services segment and its Specialty Insurance segment. The First American Family of Companies’ core business lines include title insurance and closing/settlement services; title plant management services; title and other real property records and images; valuation products and services; home warranty products; property and casualty insurance; and banking, trust, and investment advisory services.

• Link to the First American Financial Corporation prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• One-time enrollment fee of $10
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

First Industrial Realty Trust Inc. [NYSE:FR]

An established REIT and owner of industrial real estate serving thousands of customers, First Industrial Realty Trust leases, manages, buys, sells, and develops industrial real estate, providing real estate solutions for every stage of the industrial supply chain.  Founded in 1994, First Industrial currently meets the industrial space needs of multinational corporations to local businesses ranging from 1,000 square feet to more than one million in the top industrial markets. 

• Link to the First Industrial Realty Trust investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Flowserve Corporation [NYSE: FLS]

Flowserve is a leading manufacturer and aftermarket service provider of comprehensive flow management products and services.  The company sells products that help move, control and protect the flow of materials in critical industries around the world.

• Link to the Flowserve Corporation prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $100
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

General Mills [NYSE:GIS]

General Mills is the world's sixth largest food company with a portfolio of leading brands, including Cheerios, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Green Giant, Yoplait, Nature Valley, Old El Paso and Häagen-Dazs, and holds the No. 1 or No. 2 share position in growing food categories worldwide.  The company is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN and generates nearly $15 billion in annual sales.  Almost 70 percent of company sales come from U.S. retail products.  General Mills has a growing international business, contributing $2.7 billion in sales, with products in more than 100 global markets.

• Link to the General Mills prospectus and enrollment form and some general details about the plans
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternative enrollment of $50 a month automatic checking account withdrawals for five months
• One-time enrollment fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

The Gorman Rupp Company [NYSE:GRC]

The Gorman-Rupp Company designs, manufactures and sells pumps and related equipment (pump and motor controls) for use in water, wastewater, construction, industrial, petroleum, original equipment, agriculture, fire protection, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC), military and other liquid-handling applications.  Since 1933, the leadership of Gorman-Rupp has positioned the Company at the very heart of the world’s pumping infrastructure.

• Link to the Gormann Rupp Company relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Great Plains Energy Incorporated [NYSE:GXP]

Great Plains Energy Incorporated is the holding company of Kansas City Power & Light and KCP&L Greater Missouri Operations Company.  The utilities operate under the brand name KCP&L. These electric utilities serve over 820,000 customers in 47 counties in Missouri and Kansas with a combined diverse generation platform of more than 6,100 MW of capacity.  Management is focused on building a solid platform that will provide long-term earnings growth for shareholders and provide low cost, reliable energy for customers.  In addition, Great Plains Energy has an attractive annualized dividend of $0.83 per share. 

• Link to the Great Plains Energy Incorporated investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $5
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• The company charges a nominal fee of five cents a share for optional purchases
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

H. J. Heinz Company [NYSE:HNZ]

Heinz is a $10 billion global company with products enjoy #1 or #2 market share in more than 50 countries.  The company sells 650 million bottles of its iconic Ketchup every year and its top 15 power brands account for more than two-thirds of its annual sales.   Heinz employs approximately 32,500 people around the globe.   The company was founded in Sharpsburg (a suburb of Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania, in 1869 by entrepreneur Henry John Heinz.

• Link to the HJ Heinz investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternative enrollment of $50 plus $50 a month automatic checking account withdrawals for five months
• One-time enrollment fee: $5
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

HCP, INC. [NYSE:HCP]

HCP invests primarily in real estate serving the healthcare industry in the United States.  The company describes itself as a self-administered real estate investment trust, headquartered in Long Beach, California, with offices in Nashville and San Francisco.  HCP acquires, develops, leases, sells and manages healthcare real estate and provides mortgage and other financing to healthcare providers.  The company portfolio includes investments in the following five healthcare segments: (i) senior housing, (ii) life science, (iii) medical office, (iv) skilled nursing, and (v) hospital.

• Link to the HCP Inc. investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form; here's another link to the prospectus and a summary of the plans.
• Initial investment required: $750
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $100
• Shares may be purchased at a discount to the market price in accordance with the provisions of the plan
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge and additional shares may be reinvested at a discount ranging from 0 to 5% in accordance with the plan
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

IDACORP, Inc. [NYSE:IDA]

IDACORP, Inc. is a holding company formed in 1998 to enable it to compete in both the regulated and non-regulated worlds of business.  This diversified company has its roots in Idaho Power, formed in 1916, when the all-electric utility began serving the people of southern Idaho and eastern Oregon.

• Link to the IDACORP prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $200 ($10 for company customers)
• One-time enrollment fee: $10
• Alternatively, if you set up monthly payments from a checking account, the one-time fee of $10 will be waived; a check for the initial payment is all that is required; the smallest monthly payment you can make appears to be $10
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $10
• The company may charge a fee of $0.04 per share for purchases of shares on the open market
• Terms are different for customers of the company; they may enroll by paying $10  and the $10 one-time enrollment fee
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Idaho Independent Bank [NYSE:IBB]

Idaho Independent Bank was established in 1993 as an Idaho state-chartered, commercial bank and currently operates branches in Boise (3), Meridian, Coeur d’Alene, Nampa, Mountain Home, Hayden Lake, Caldwell, Star, Eagle, and Sun Valley/Ketchum, Idaho. IIB has approximately 230 employees throughout the state of Idaho. 

• Link to the Idaho Independent Bank investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $150
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

iStar Financial [NYSE:SFI]

iStar Financial Inc. is a publicly traded finance company focused on the commercial real estate industry.  The Company primarily provides custom-tailored investment capital to high-end private and corporate owners of real estate, including senior and mezzanine real estate debt, senior and mezzanine corporate capital, as well as corporate net lease financing and equity.  The Company, which is taxed as a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), provides innovative and value added financing solutions to its customers.

• Link to the iStar Financial investor relations (click on the appropriate link) site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: None
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Kellogg Company [NYSE:K]

Kellogg Company, founded over one hundred years ago and headquartered in Battle Creek, MI is the the world’s leading producer of cereal and a leading producer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, toaster pastries, cereal bars, fruit-flavored snacks, frozen waffles and veggie foods.  Sales in 2009 exceeded $13 billion.

• Link to the Kellogg Company investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form; summary of the plans
• Initial investment required: $50
• One-time enrollment fee: $10; this one-time fee is included in the initial payment of $50
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50 ($25 if automatic monthly payments are authorized)
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Kimball International [NASDAQ:KBALB]

Kimball International, Inc. provides a variety of products from its two business segments: the Electronic Manufacturing Services segment and the Furniture segment.  The Electronic Manufacturing Services segment provides engineering and manufacturing services which utilize common production and support capabilities to a variety of industries globally.  The Furniture segment provides furniture for the office and hospitality industries, sold under the Company's family of brand names.

• Link to the Kimball International investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Shares are purchased with an additional nominal fee of four cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at a nominal charge of 5% of the amount reinvested maxing out at $3.00
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Liberty Property Trust [NYSE:LRY]

Liberty Property Trust is a $6.4 billion real estate investment trust (as of September 30, 2010) which owns 79.8 million square feet of office and industrial space in over 20 markets throughout the United States and the United Kingdom.

• Link to the Liberty Property Trust prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $1000
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $250
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested without a charge and at a 3% discount to the market price of the shares
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Lockheed Martin Corporation [NYSE:LMT]

Lockheed Martin is a world leader in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, including the first operational hit-to-kill missile. It also has considerable experience in missile design and production, infrared seekers, command and control/battle management, and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, as well as radar and signal processing. The company makes significant contributions to most major U.S. missile defense systems, and participates in several global missile defense partnerships.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 133,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.0 billion.

• Link to the Lockheed Martin Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare  

Macerich Company [NYSE:MAC]

Macerich, which has been headquartered in Santa Monica for more than 30 years, is a fully integrated self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust, which focuses on the acquisition, leasing, management, development and redevelopment of regional malls throughout the United States. Macerich now owns approximately 73 million square feet of gross leaseable area consisting primarily of interests in 71 regional malls.

• Link to the Macerich Company investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Mack-Cali Realty Corporation [NYSE:CLI]

Mack-Cali Realty Corporation is one of the country's largest real estate investment trusts (REITs) and a dominant owner, manager and developer of class A office and office/flex buildings in its core Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets.  Mack-Cali is known for its award-winning property management, premier office properties, and credit-quality tenant base.  An investment grade-rated company, Mack-Cali has been a publicly traded REIT since 1994.  The Company adheres to the conservative financial principles of modest leverage, strong debt service coverage ratios, and a high ratio of debt-free assets. Mack-Cali's overall corporate strategy is to expand its critical mass in high-barrier-to-entry markets in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

• Link to the Mack-Cali Realty investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $2000
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Marathon Oil Corporation [NYSE:MRO]

Marathon Oil Corporate is engaged in worldwide exploration, production and marketing of liquid hydrocarbons and natural gas; oil sands mining and bitumen upgrading in Canada; domestic refining, marketing and transportation of crude oil and petroleum products; and worldwide marketing and transportation of products manufactured from natural gas, such as liquefied natural gas and methanol.

• Link to the Marathon Oil Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

McCormick & Company, Inc. [NYSE:MKC]

McCormick & Company, founded in 1889, is a leading, global flavor, seasonings and spice company.  Company products are found in retail outlets, food manufacturers and food service businesses.

• Link to the McCormick & Company, Inc. investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $500
• One-time enrollment fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at a nominal fee of $0.05 per share
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

MDU Resources Group, Inc. [NYSE:MDU]

MDU Resources Group, Inc. is a Forutne 500 Company and a member of the S&P Midcap 400 Index.  The company provides value-added natural resource products and related services that are essential to energy transportation infrastructure, including regulated businesses, an exploration and production company and construction companies.  MDU Resources includes regulated electric and natural gas utilities and regulated natural gas pipelines and energy services, natural gas and oil production, construction materials and contracting and construction services.

• Link to the MDU Resources Group, Inc. investor relations site and prospectus and enrollment form 
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternatively you may authorize automatic monthly withdrawals of $25 from a checking account for ten months
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• If you own shares in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

NextEra Energy, Inc. [NYSE:NEE]

NextEra Energy, Inc. is a leading clean energy company with 2009 revenues of more than $15 billion, nearly 43,000 megawatts of generating capacity, and more than 15,000 employees in 28 states and Canada.  Headquartered in Juno Beach, Fla., NextEra Energy’s principal subsidiaries are NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, the largest generator in North America of renewable energy from the wind and sun, and Florida Power & Light Company, which serves approximately 4.5 million customer accounts in Florida and is one of the largest rate-regulated electric utilities in the country.  Through its subsidiaries, NextEra Energy collectively operates the third largest U.S. nuclear power generation fleet.

• Link to the Next Era Energy, Inc. investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Shares are purchased for an additional nominal fee of three cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Pfizer, Inc. [NYSE:PFE]

Pfizer, based in New York, NY, is a leading innovative pharmaceutical and biotech company.  Founded over 150 years ago, Pfizer has a portfolio of diversified global health care portfolio includes human and animal biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines, as well as nutritional products and many of the world's best-known consumer products. 

• Link to the Pfizer, Inc. investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Link to the prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment: $500
• Set up fee: none
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at least one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Progress Energy [NYSE:PGN]

Progress Energy, headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., is a Fortune 500 energy company with more than 22,000 megawatts of generation capacity and approximately $10 billion in annual revenues.  Progress Energy includes two major electric utilities that serve about 3.1 million customers in the Carolinas and Florida.  The company has earned the Edison Electric Institute's Edison Award, the industry's highest honor, in recognition of its operational excellence, and was the first utility to receive the prestigious J.D. Power and Associates Founder's Award for customer service.  The company is pursuing a balanced strategy for a secure energy future, which includes aggressive energy-efficiency programs, investments in renewable energy technologies and a state-of-the-art electricity system.  Progress Energy celebrated a century of service in 2008.

• Link to the Progress Energy investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Shares are purchased for an additional nominal fee of three cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

ProLogis [NYSE:PLD]

ProLogis is the leading global provider of distribution facilities, with more than 475 million square feet of industrial space (44 million square meters) in markets across North America, Europe and Asia. The company leases its industrial facilities to more than 4,400 customers, including manufacturers, retailers, transportation companies, third-party logistics providers and other enterprises with large-scale distribution needs.

ProLogis was founded in 1991 on a single, core idea: that it could create exceptional value by focusing on service and forging close, long-term ties with the companies it serves. Traditionally, industrial developers had been transaction-focused rather than service-oriented. From its earliest days, ProLogis has embraced a different approach, seeking to become a valued business partner for its customers.

Since going public in 1994, ProLogis has grown from $400 million in assets under management in the United States to a global portfolio of properties in 19 countries, comprising nearly $35 billion in assets. ProLogis continues to offer its customers the most modern and geographically diverse platform of distribution space in the world, enhanced by unparalleled customer service and an unwavering commitment to sustainable development.

• Link to the ProLogis investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Shares are purchased for an additional nominal fee of three cents each
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Regions Financial Corporation [NYSE:RF]

Regions Financial Corporation, with $133 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 100 Index and one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, trust, securities brokerage, asset management, mortgage and insurance products and services.  Regions serves customers in 16 states across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates approximately 1,800 banking offices and 2,200 ATMs.  Its investment and securities brokerage division, Morgan Keegan & Company Inc., provides services from over 300 offices.

• Link to the Regions Financial investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $1000
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Robbins & Myers, Inc. [NYSE:RBN]

Robbins & Myers, Inc. is a leading supplier of engineered equipment and systems for critical applications in global energy, industrial, chemical and pharmaceutical markets.  The company believes that its success is based on close and continuing customer interactions, innovative products, application engineering, customer support and a competitive cost structure.

• Link to the Robbins & Myers, Inc. investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

RPM [NYSE:RPM] 

RPM is a specialty coating and sealing company traded on the New York Stock Exchange.  RPM offers a direct stock purchase and dividend reinvestment plan at no charge.

• RPM stock plan brochure and enrollment form; enrollment online is also available
• Initial investment required: $500
• Alternatively, register one share in your name to join
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

Snap-on Incorporated [NYSE:SNA]

An S&P 500 company, Snap-on is building upon its unique strengths in innovative product development, its leading dealer van network, and its strong brand preference by investing in new technology capabilities and e-business practices.

• Link to the Snap-on Incorporated investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $100
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

UGI Corporation [NYSE:UGI]

UGI Corporation owns 44% of AmeriGas Partners, L.P. (NYSE: APU), the largest retail marketer of propane in the United States. AmeriGas Partners, L.P. serves approximately 1.3 million customers in all 50 states. Through its Antargaz subsidiary, UGI Corporation is one of the largest liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) marketers in France and through its Flaga subsidiary, the largest LPG distributor in Austria. Flaga also has operations in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Switzerland. UGI also participates in a LPG joint venture in the Nantong region of China.

Wholly owned UGI Utilities, Inc. distributes natural gas to approximately 563,000 customers and provides electric service to 62,000 customers in eastern, northeastern and central Pennsylvania. UGI Energy Services, Inc. markets natural gas, propane and electricity under the trade names GASMARK® and POWERMARK® to approximately 22,000 commercial and industrial customers in nine states in the northeast U.S. UGI Energy Services, Inc. also own a variety of assets that support the storage, transportation and delivery of natural gas and a subsidiary that owns electric generation assets in Pennsylvania. UGI’s HVAC subsidiaries provide heating, air conditioning, refrigeration and electrical services.

• Link to the UGI Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $1000
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $25
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Union Pacific Corporation [NYSE:UNP]

Union Pacific Corporation is one of America's leading transportation companies.  Its principal operating company, Union Pacific Railroad, is North America's premier railroad franchise, covering 23 states across the western two-thirds of the United States.

• Link to the Union Pacific Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

USG Corporation [NYSE:USG]

For more than 100 years, Chicago-based USG has been a leader in producing innovative products and systems to build the environments in which we live, work and play.  As the inventor of wallboard and mineral wool ceiling tile, USG created North America's building materials industry.  The company products are used in everything from major commercial developments and residential housing to simple home improvements.  USG's flagship brands include SHEETROCK® Brand gypsum panels and DUROCK® cement board, which are recognized around the world.

USG is North America's leading producer of gypsum wallboard, joint compound and a vast array of related products for the construction and remodeling industries.  The company is also the global leader in the manufacture of ceiling suspension systems and are recognized as the premier acoustical panel and specialty ceiling systems innovator.  The company provides a family of products that offer creative building solutions that set new standards for productivity and efficiency, helping contractors and architects deliver high quality and innovative designs.

USG, through its subsidiary L&W Supply, is also the nation's largest distributor of drywall and related building products.  L&W serves the professional contractor through a network of more than 160 locations and strives to be their preferred source for all quality products and services they need to complete their projects on time and on budget.

• Link to the USG Corporation investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Verizon Communications, Inc. [NYSE:VZ]

Verizon Communications Inc., headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless claims that it operates America’s most reliable wireless network, serving more than 93 million customers nationwide.  Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers innovative, seamless business solutions to customers around the world.  A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 195,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of more than $107 billion in revenues.

• Link to the Verizon Communications, Inc. investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Additional shares are purchased at a nominal additional fee of three cents per share
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

Washington Real Estate Investment Trust [NYSE:WRE]

Washington Real Estate Investment Trust is celebrating its 50th year as a self-administered, self-managed, equity real estate investment trust.   WRIT owns and operates income-producing real estate properties in the greater Washington, D.C. region.  The company invests in a diversified portfolio that includes office, industrial/flex, medical office, retail and multifamily properties and land for development.  The company believes that this strategy has proven successful through nearly five decades of established performance in the nation's capital.

WRIT has a storied history of building value for its shareholders as the oldest existing publicly-traded REIT in the United States: an investment of $10,000 in WRIT in December 1971, with dividends reinvested, would be worth more than $2.8 million as of December 2009.

As the only REIT focused exclusively on the greater Washington, D.C. region with a diverse portfolio of investments, the company believes that it enjoys a unique perspective on the market.

• Link to the Washington Real Estate Investment Trust investor relations site and enrollment and other details on Computershare
• Initial investment: $250
• One time set up fee: None
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $100
• Additional shares are purchased at a nominal additional fee of three cents per share
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare  

This list is a work in progress; more companies will be added over time.

List 2: Companies that offer DRIPs at no charge

In development

Abbott Labs [NYSE:ABT]

Abbott is a global, broad-based health care company devoted to discovering new medicines, new technologies and new ways to manage health.  Company products span the continuum of care, from nutritional products and laboratory diagnostics through medical devices and pharmaceutical therapies.  Abbott has sales, manufacturing, research and development, and distribution facilities around the world, close to where its customers live. The company is recognized for its global reach and ability to serve its customers around the world. 

• Link to the Abbott investor relations site and details about the plan and link to enrollment on Computershare
• Initial investment: $10
• Set up fee: none
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $10
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at least one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• Plan administrator: Computershare

Some Companies with DSP or DRIPs that charge fees

Altria [NYSE:MO]

Altria directly or indirectly owns 100% of each of PM USA, US Smokeless Tobacco Company LLC, (USSTC), John Middleton Co. (Middleton), Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Ltd. (Ste. Michelle), and PMCC. Altria holds a continuing economic and voting interest in SABMiller plc.

The brand portfolios of Altria's tobacco operating companies include such well-known names as Marlboro, Copenhagen, Skoal and Black & Mild. Ste. Michelle produces and markets premium wines sold under various labels, including Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, and it exclusively distributes and markets Antinori, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte and Villa Maria Estate products in the United States. Trademarks and service marks related to Altria referenced in this release are the property of, or licensed by, Altria or its subsidiaries

• Link to the Altria investor relations site and link to Computer share for prospectus and enrollment details
• Initial investment: $500
• One time set up fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash contribution: $50
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested at no charge
• If you own at least one share in your name, you may participate in the plan
• There is a $5 charge for each optional cash investment
• Plan administrator: Computershare 

CBS Corporation [NYSE:CBS]

CBS is a mass media company with constituent parts that reach back to the beginnings of the broadcast industry, as well as newer businesses that operate on the leading edge of the media industry.

• Link to the CBS Corporation prospectus and enrollment form
• Initial investment required: $250
• Alternative enrollment $25 a month for ten months
• Enrollment fee: $10
• Minimum optional cash payment accepted: $50; optional cash investments incur a fee of $4.00
• Dividends may be automatically reinvested with a fee
• DRIP fee is 10% of the dividend amount but no more than $3.00
• Plan administrator: Wells Fargo

In conclusion

DRIPs are an excellent way for novice investors to get involved in the market.  Over 1,000 companies offer dividend reinvestment plans and about three to four hundred of those companies allow investors to purchase their first share directly without a broker.  Many plans have no or low recurring costs associated with them.  Dividend reinvestment plans are purpose built for patient investors, who trade little and have a long-term time horizon on their investments.

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