On January 15, 20X1 Rice Co. declared its annual cash dividend on common stock for the year ended January 31, 20X1. The dividend was paid on February 9, 20X1, to stockholders of record as of January 28, 20X1. On what date should Rice decrease retained earnings by the amount of the dividend?

a.January 31, 20X1

b.January 15, 20X1

c.January 28, 20X1

d.February 9, 20X1