On 12/31/2020, Heaton Industries Inc. reported retained earnings of $275,000 on its balance sheet, and it reported that it had $172,500 of net income during the year. On its previous balance sheet, at 12/31/2019, the company had reported $555,000 of retained earnings. No shares were repurchased during 2020. How much in dividends did Heaton pay during 2020?

elect the correct answer.

a. $452,571

b. $452,786

c. $452,714

d. $452,643

e. $452,500