For income-focused investors, buying reliable dividend-paying ASX shares can be one of the most straightforward ways to grow wealth over time.
But which ones could be no-brainer buys right now? Let's see what analysts are recommending to their clients and why they could be top picks for a $1,000 investment:
Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)
The first no-brainer buy could be Accent Group. It owns and operates a portfolio of popular footwear and apparel brands, including The Athlete's Foot, Platypus, and Hype DC, as well as exclusive distribution rights for global labels.
Accent's ability to capitalise on sport and athleisure trends has translated into strong profit growth over the last decade. And while consumer spending weakness is weighing on its performance this year, FY 2026 looks likely to be better due to interest rate cuts and the rollout of the Sports Direct brand.
Bell Potter expects this to be the case and is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 7.4 cents in FY 2025 and then 9.5 cents in FY 2026. Based on its current share price of $1.49, this would mean dividend yields of 5% and 6.4%, respectively.
The broker has a buy rating and $1.90 price target on its shares.
IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH)
Another ASX dividend share that could be a buy is IPH. It is a specialist in intellectual property services, helping businesses secure patents and trademarks across Asia-Pacific.
While it may not be a household name, IPH has carved out a highly profitable niche with a resilient business model.
Its revenue is largely recurring and tied to corporate clients that must maintain IP registrations regardless of the economic cycle. This consistency allows IPH to pay attractive dividends year after year. In fact, it has now gone a decade of dividend increases.
Macquarie expects this to continue and is forecasting fully franked dividends of 35 cents per share in FY 2025 and then 36.5 cents per share in FY 2026. Based on its current share price of $5.25, this equates to dividend yields of 6.7% and 7%, respectively.
The broker currently has an outperform rating and $6.75 price target on its shares.
Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)
Finally, as Australia's largest telecommunications provider, Telstra has long been a favourite for income-seeking investors. Its extensive mobile and broadband networks make it a defensive business that generates consistent cash flows.
Telstra is currently in the midst of its Connected Future 30 strategy, which is designed to boost earnings through cost efficiencies, higher-value services, and leveraging its network advantage.
Analysts at Macquarie expect this to support fully franked dividend yields of 4%+ for the foreseeable future.
The broker has an outperform rating and $5.28 price target on Telstra's shares.
