"plain english" is the one thing in short supply (LOL) The good thing that special dividends are taxed at the same rate.With tax cuts expiring at the end of the year the low dividend rate will go up and I expect a lot of special dividend payouts before the end of the year.They could be big money (IMO)
I have no best sight to link to for plain english dividend rules. I recommend checking the top sticky post link daily for the best chance for dividend news.