Which statement best describes qualified dividends?

The statement that best describes qualified dividends is that they are ordinary dividends subject to the same maximum tax rate that applies to net capital gain. This means qualified dividends are taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income, reflecting the tax policy designed to encourage long-term investment in corporations.

Qualified dividends must meet specific criteria, such as being paid by a U.S. corporation or a qualified foreign corporation and held for a minimum period of time. This favorable tax treatment aligns these dividends more closely with capital gains rather than regular income, thus incentivizing investors to hold their stocks longer. The benefits of lower tax rates on qualified dividends can significantly enhance the after-tax returns for investors, making it an important distinction in tax planning.

The other choices do not correctly define qualified dividends. For example, return of capital is not classified as income and does not qualify for the lower tax rates applied to dividends. Similarly, the option concerning purchasing additional shares and distributing more stock pertain to different aspects of corporate finance rather than the tax classification of dividends.