If a firm has missed one or more dividends on cumulative preferred stock, it must make them up before any dividends can be paid to common shareholders.

Cumulative Preferred Stock

A type of preferred stock where dividends accrue if not paid in a given year, and all accrued dividends must be paid before dividends can be paid on common stock.

Dividends

A portion of a company's earnings that is paid to shareholders, usually on a quarterly basis.

Common Shareholders

Individuals or entities that own a portion of a company's equity through its common shares, giving them voting rights and a claim on a portion of its profits.