(NYSE: CVX) is the second-largest publicly listed oil and gas producer in the U.S. today in terms of market capitalization, right behind ExxonMobil. It was founded in 1879 but expanded its asset base rapidly in recent decades across upstream and downstream energy, as well as chemicals, and hugely fortified its financial standing.

Thanks to its financial flexibility and prudent capital allocation, Chevron is one of the top dividend-paying oil stocks today. Earlier this year, the company increased its dividend by 8% per share, marking its 37th consecutive year of dividend increases.

Chevron stock, however, just hit a 52-week low on plunging oil prices. Its dividends won't stop growing, though, and you could even earn $1,000 in annual dividend income from the stock if you buy some shares now.

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Source Fool.com