These companies offer Direct Purchase or Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRIPs). A DRIP enables a shareholder to reinvest dividends and buy additional shares directly from the company. To be eligible to participate in a plan normally requires ownership of a minimum number of shares (one share for most). Each product page displays whether a company offers a DRIP and the minimum number of shares needed to participate.
If a company does offer a plan, normally the transfer agent will automatically mail new shareholders information about the plan and a form to enroll. Enrolling can be easier by setting up online access to your shareholder account.