What is the difference between a qualified and a unqualified distribution

[WillK]

Qualified distributions are accounts that are most commonly known as retirement accounts, they receive certain tax advantages. These distributions receive more favorable tax treatment by being taxed at capital gains rates

Unqualified distributions are accounts that do not receive preferential tax treatment and usually are monies that  you’ve already received through income sources and paid income tax on it. The distributions are taxed at ordinary income rates.