Ex-dividend dates are very important to dividend investors, since you must purchase a stock prior to its ex-dividend date in order to receive its upcoming dividend payout. Below are 5 big-name stocks going ex-dividend for the week of December 17-21, 2012.

Paychex (PAYX) has an ex-dividend date of December 18. The company, which provides payroll, human resources, and benefits services to small and mid-size businesses, offers a 3.92% dividend yield. Dividend.com currently rates PAYX as “Neutral” with a DARS™ rating of 3.4 stars out of 5 stars.

Limited Brands  (LTD)  is set to go ex-dividend on December 18. This ex-dividend date reflects the payout of a special $3.00 per share dividend. The women’s apparel and product retailer, the parent company of Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works,  and White Barn Candle Company, among others, has a dividend yield of 1.98%.  Dividend.com currently rates LTD as “Neutral” with a DARS™ rating of 3.4 stars out of 5 stars.

Tiffany & Co  (TIF) has an ex-dividend of December 18. The fine jewelry designer, manufacturer, and retailer offers a 2.20% dividend yield. Dividend.com currently rates TIF as “Neutral” with a DARS™ rating of 3.3 stars out of 5 stars.

Las Vegas Sand  (LVS) is set to go ex-dividend on December 18. The casino and hotel operator has a dividend yield of 2.16%. Dividend.com currently rates LVS as “Neutral” with a DARS™ rating of 3.2 stars out of 5 stars.

Arcos Dorados Holdings  (ARCO) has an ex-dividend date of December 18. The company, which owns and operators McDonald’s franchises in Latin America, offers a 1.91% dividend yield. Dividend.com currently rates ARCO as “Neutral” with a DARS™ rating of 3.1 stars out of 5 stars.

Be sure to visit our complete recommended list of the Best Dividend Stocks, as well as a detailed explanation of our ratings system here.