Question

Alpha Co. is paying a $.64 per share dividend today. There are 158,000 shares outstanding with a par value of $1 per share. As a result of this dividend, the: A) common stock account will decrease by $138,000 B) capital in excess of par value account will decrease by $101,120 C) retained earnings will decrease by $101,120. D) retained earnings will decrease by $99,360. E) common stock account will decrease by $101,120.

Answer 1

Dividend paid = $0.64 x 158,000 = $101,120. The dividend paid reduces retained earnings by $101,120.

The correct answer is C

Step-by-step explanation:

Dividend is paid out of profit after tax. This reduces the retained earnings of the company since dividend involves outflow of cash.