Create a reliable income stream: 3 ASX ETFs with quarterly distributions

Generating consistent income from your investments doesn't have to be complicated.

With the right mix of dividend-paying ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs), investors can create a steady, quarterly income stream — all while enjoying diversification and long-term capital growth potential.

Whether you're building a passive income portfolio or simply looking to supplement your earnings, these three ASX ETFs offer reliable distributions paid quarterly, potentially making them ideal building blocks for income-focused investors. They are as follows:

BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

The BetaShares Australia 200 ETF offers investors easy exposure to the largest 200 companies on the Australian share market in a single, ultra-low-cost trade. With a management fee of just 0.04% per annum, it is a cost-effective way to access a broad slice of the Australian market.

Among the ASX ETF's holdings are household names such as Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES). It could be a great choice for investors who want core exposure to Australian equities, steady income, and broad diversification — all without breaking the bank on fees.

It currently comes with a dividend yield of approximately 3.3%, paid quarterly.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

If your focus is squarely on maximising income, then the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF could be one of the top contenders on the ASX. This ASX ETF targets shares with higher forecast dividend yields than the broader market.

The fund's portfolio includes high-yielding sectors such as financials and resources but excludes A-REITs. And to promote diversification, the fund limits exposure to any one sector or company. This ensures that the income stream is well-balanced and relatively resilient.

With quarterly distributions, it could be an excellent option for income-seeking investors who want more than just market-tracking returns. The fund currently offers an attractive dividend yield of around 5%.

Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF (ASX: VTS)

Finally, the Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF offers exposure to the entire U.S. stock market. This means from blue-chip giants like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) to small and mid-cap stocks across various sectors.

While the current dividend yield sits at a more modest 1.4%, paid quarterly, this ASX ETF complements its income with significant long-term growth potential. For investors looking to blend income with global growth, this fund offers a unique balance — especially if you're planning to hold long-term.

The post Create a reliable income stream: 3 ASX ETFs with quarterly distributions appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, Microsoft, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, BHP Group, Microsoft, Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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