Who says building a reliable income stream has to be complicated?

For investors chasing passive income, the ASX offers a surprisingly simple solution — and with the right mix of dividend-paying shares, you could be earning $1,000 a month (or more).

$1,000 a month from ASX dividend shares

Firstly, it is worth noting that to generate $1,000 a month, or $12,000 per year, in dividends you will need a sizeable portfolio.

Based on an average dividend yield of 5%, you would be looking at a portfolio value of roughly $240,000.

Now, before you scroll away — remember, this isn't about getting rich overnight. It is about building a solid, sustainable income stream over time. If you're already part of the way there, great. If not, this strategy can help you get on track.

Start with growth

It may seem counterintuitive to skip dividends to begin with when your aim is to build a monthly income stream.

However, unless you're already sitting on a sizeable nest egg, you are going to have to build up your investment portfolio to be able to generate income.

Based on a return of 10% per annum, which is in line with historical averages but not guaranteed, investors could build a $240,000 portfolio in just over 11 years by investing $1,000 per month.

Switch to quality dividend payers

Once you have a portfolio of the desired value, it is time to start thinking about passive income.

If you're going to rely on dividends, the businesses behind them matter. You want companies with strong balance sheets, consistent cash flow, and a track record of paying (and ideally growing) dividends.

Here are a few examples of ASX dividend shares that could form the backbone of a winning income strategy and could be worth further investigation:

• HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) — A property trust focused on essential retail, paying steady distributions with income paid quarterly.
• Smartgroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ) — A strong dividend payer with yields around 8% and a client base that includes government and not-for-profits.
• Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) — Owner of Rebel, BCF and Supercheap Auto, with fully franked dividend yields approaching 5% based on current analyst forecasts.
• Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) — Defensive earnings, consistent dividends, and exposure to growth in mobile and data infrastructure.
• Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI) — A top dividend stock with growth potential, offering fully franked yields over 4% and still expanding its store footprint.

This mix spreads your income across sectors — telecoms, retail, property, and services — reducing reliance on any one company or industry.

Foolish takeaway

You don't need to overthink it. With patience, a clear goal, and the right mix of dividend-paying shares, building a $1,000 a month income stream is well within reach. And perhaps much sooner than you thought possible, even when starting at zero.