SEM vs UNH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Aug 26, 2026, UNH (UnitedHealth Group Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 4 of 4 head-to-head metrics. UNH offers the higher yield at 2.50%, UNH has the higher dividend-safety score, and UNH looks like the better value (its fair-value estimate is 34% above its share price).
Key facts: SEM vs UNH
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Aug 26, 2026, SmarterDividends grades SEM's dividend safety D (44/100) and UNH's A (89/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Aug 26, 2026, SEM has raised its dividend for 0 consecutive years and UNH for 16.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "SEM vs UNH: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Aug 26, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/sem-vs-unh
| Metric | SEM | UNH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | — | 2.50% |
| Annual dividend | $0.38 | $9.28 |
| Payout ratio | — | 58% |
| Years of growth | 0 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | — | 12.6% |
| 5-yr total return | — | -19% |
| Dividend safety score | 44 (D) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $21.63 | $495.78 |
| Upside to fair value | +31% | +34% |
| Frequency | monthly | quarterly |
| Market cap | — | $333.0B |
| P/E ratio | — | 23.9 |
Higher yield
UNH
2.50%
Safer dividend
UNH
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.6%
Better value
UNH
+34% upside
SEM vs UNH — FAQ
Is SEM or UNH a better dividend stock?
On the data, UNH wins more head-to-head categories (4 vs 0). UNH offers the higher yield (2.50%), while UNH has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, SEM or UNH?
UNH has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.50%, versus — for SEM.
Is SEM or UNH safer?
UNH has the higher dividend-safety score (89/100 vs 44/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
Is SEM or UNH better value right now?
As of Aug 26, 2026, UNH looks like the better value: its fair-value estimate is 34% above its share price (undervalued). For SEM, its fair-value estimate is 31% above its share price.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.