Dividend paying stocks - how long do you have to own the shares for before payout

[AndroidMan]

As per title, how long before dividend payout do you need to be an owner of the stock?

Is it different for each company?
Or is it a standard timeframe?

 

[Silversurfer]

Depending on the stock they could pay a dividend every quarter, half year or annually. Once you own shares before they go ‘ex dividend’ it will be paid to you. Look up the company for the details.

 

[AJAM]

You just have to own the stock on the Day it goes ex-dividend.
You don't even have to wait until the payment date.