Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation and Basis of Presentation, Policy	Consolidation and Basis of PresentationThe consolidated financial statements include our accounts and our wholly-owned subsidiaries: American Equity Life, American Equity Life of New York, Eagle Life, AERL, L.C., American Equity Capital, Inc., American Equity Investment Properties, L.C., American Equity Advisors, Inc. and American Equity Investment Service Company. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. As of December 31, 2018, American Equity Capital, Inc., American Equity Advisors, Inc. and American Equity Investment Service Company have been dissolved.
Estimates and Assumptions, Policy	Estimates and Assumptions The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates and assumptions are utilized in the calculation of deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements, policy benefit reserves, including the liability for lifetime income benefit riders and the fair value of embedded derivatives in fixed index annuity contracts, valuation of derivatives, valuation of investments, allowances for credit losses on available-for-sale fixed maturity securities, allowances for loan losses on mortgage loans and valuation allowances on deferred tax assets. A description of each critical estimate is incorporated within the discussion of the related accounting policies which follow. It is reasonably possible that actual experience could differ from the estimates and assumptions utilized.
Investments, Policy	Investments Fixed maturity securities (bonds maturing more than one year after issuance) that may be sold prior to maturity are classified as available for sale. Available for sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized gains and losses, if any, on these securities are included directly in a separate component of stockholders' equity, net of income taxes and certain adjustments for assumed changes in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements. Fair values, as reported herein, of fixed maturity securities are based on quoted market prices in active markets when available, or for those fixed maturity securities not actively traded, yield data and other factors relating to instruments or securities with similar characteristics are used. See Note 2 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments for more information on the determination of fair value. Premiums and discounts are amortized/accrued using methods which result in a constant yield over the securities' expected lives. Amortization/accrual of premiums and discounts on residential and commercial mortgage backed securities incorporate prepayment assumptions to estimate the securities' expected lives. Interest income is recognized as earned. Beginning in 2020, available-for-sale fixed maturity securities are subject to an allowance for credit loss and changes in the allowance are reported in net income as a component of net realized gains (losses) on investments. Prior to 2020, the amortized cost of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities was adjusted for declines in value that were other than temporary and impairments in value deemed to be other than temporary were reported as other than temporary impairment losses on investments. See Note 3 - Investments for further discussion of the allowance for credit losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities and other than temporary impairment losses. Mortgage loans on real estate are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts and net of valuation allowances. Interest income is recorded when earned; however, interest ceases to accrue for loans on which interest is more than 90 days past due based upon contractual terms and/or when the collection of interest is not considered probable. Interest income on impaired loans is recorded on a cash basis. Any changes in the loan valuation allowances are reported in net realized gains (losses) on investments. See Note 4 - Mortgage Loans on Real Estate for further discussion of the valuation allowance on the mortgage loan portfolios. Other invested assets include company owned life insurance, equity securities, limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method, short-term debt securities with maturities of greater than three months but less than twelve months when purchased and policy loans. Company owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the end of the reporting period, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement. Dividends are recognized when declared. Policy loans are stated at current unpaid principal balances. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of specific identification based on the trade date. We review and analyze all investments on an ongoing basis for changes in market interest rates and credit deterioration. This review process includes analyzing our ability to recover the amortized cost basis of each investment that has a fair value that is materially lower than its amortized cost and requires a high degree of management judgment and involves uncertainty. The evaluation of securities for credit loss is a quantitative and qualitative process, which is subject to risks and uncertainties. We have a policy and process to identify securities that could potentially have credit loss. This process involves monitoring market events and other items that could impact issuers. The evaluation includes but is not limited to such factors as: •the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost or cost; •whether the issuer is current on all payments and all contractual payments have been made as agreed; •the remaining payment terms and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; •the lack of ability to refinance due to liquidity problems in the credit market; •the fair value of any underlying collateral; •the existence of any credit protection available; •our intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not we would be required to sell prior to recovery for debt securities; •consideration of rating agency actions; and •changes in estimated cash flows of mortgage and asset backed securities. We determine whether an allowance for credit loss should be established for debt securities by assessing all facts and circumstances surrounding each security. Where the decline in fair value of debt securities is attributable to changes in market interest rates or to factors such as market volatility, liquidity and spread widening, and we anticipate recovery of all contractual or expected cash flows, we do not consider these investments to have credit loss because we do not intend to sell these investments and it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell these investments before a recovery of amortized cost, which may be maturity. If we intend to sell a debt security or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell a debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, credit loss has occurred and the difference between amortized cost and fair value will be recognized as a loss in operations. If we do not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell the debt security but also do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, a credit loss would be recognized in operations for the amount of the expected credit loss. We determine the amount of expected credit loss by calculating the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected discounted at each security's acquisition yield based on our consideration of whether the security was of high credit quality at the time of acquisition. The difference between the present value of expected future cash flows and the amortized cost basis of the security is the amount of credit loss recognized in operations. The recognized credit loss is limited to the total unrealized loss on the security (i.e., the fair value floor). The determination of the credit loss component of a mortgage backed security is based on a number of factors. The primary consideration in this evaluation process is the issuer's ability to meet current and future interest and principal payments as contractually stated at time of purchase. Our review of these securities includes an analysis of the cash flow modeling under various default scenarios considering independent third party benchmarks, the seniority of the specific tranche within the structure of the security, the composition of the collateral and the actual default, loss severity and prepayment experience exhibited. With the input of third party assumptions for default projections, loss severity and prepayment expectations, we evaluate the cash flow projections to determine whether the security is performing in accordance with its contractual obligation. We utilize models from a leading structured product software specialist serving institutional investors. These models incorporate each security's seniority and cash flow structure. In circumstances where the analysis implies a potential for principal loss at some point in the future, we use the "best estimate" cash flow projection discounted at the security's effective yield at acquisition to determine the amount of our potential credit loss associated with this security. The discounted expected future cash flows equates to our expected recovery value. Any shortfall of the expected recovery when compared to the amortized cost of the security will be recorded as credit loss. The determination of the credit loss component of a corporate bond is based on the underlying financial performance of the issuer and their ability to meet their contractual obligations. Considerations in our evaluation include, but are not limited to, credit rating changes, financial statement and ratio analysis, changes in management, significant changes in credit spreads, breaches of financial covenants and a review of the economic outlook for the industry and markets in which they trade. In circumstances where an issuer appears unlikely to meet its future obligation, an estimate of credit loss is determined. Credit loss is calculated using default probabilities as derived from the credit default swaps markets in conjunction with recovery rates derived from independent third party analysis or a best estimate of credit loss. This credit loss rate is then incorporated into a present value calculation based on an expected principal loss in the future discounted at the yield at the date of purchase and compared to amortized cost to determine the amount of credit loss associated with the security. We do not measure a credit loss allowance on accrued interest receivable as we write off any accrued interest receivable balance to net investment income in a timely manner when we have concerns regarding collectability. Amounts on available for sale fixed maturities that are deemed to be uncollectible are written off and removed from the allowance for credit loss. A write-off may also occur if we intend to sell a security or when it is more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost.
Derivative Instruments, Policy	Derivative Instruments Our derivative instruments include call options used to fund fixed index annuity credits. Prior to the redemption of our floating rate subordinated debentures in 2019 and 2020, our derivative instruments also included an interest rate swap and interest rate caps which were used to manage interest rate risk associated with the floating rate component on certain of our subordinated debentures. All of our derivative instruments are recognized in the balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair value are recognized immediately in operations. See Note 5 - Derivative Instruments for more information on derivative instruments.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy	Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Book Overdrafts Under our cash management system, checks issued but not yet presented to banks frequently result in overdraft balances for accounting purposes and are classified as Other liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. We report the changes in the amount of the overdraft balance as a financing activity in our consolidated statement of cash flows as Change in checks in excess of cash balance.
Securities Lending, Policy	Securities Lending The Company participates in a securities lending program whereby we loan certain securities to other institutions, through a lending agent, for short periods of time. The Company has the right to approve any institution with whom the lending agent transacts on its behalf. Borrowers post cash collateral in an amount equal to or greater than 102% of the market value of the loaned securities. The lending agent retains the collateral and invests it in short-term liquid assets on behalf of the Company. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value of the loaned securities fluctuates. The lending agent indemnifies the Company against losses resulting from the failure of a counterparty to return securities pledged where collateral is insufficient to cover the loss. During 2020, the Company decided to wind down its securities lending program. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the fair value of loaned securities was $0.1 million and $477.5 million, respectively, and is included in Fixed maturity securities, available for sale, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, collateral retained by the lending agent and invested in liquid assets on our behalf was $0.1 million and $495.1 million, respectively, and is recorded in Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, liabilities to return collateral of $0.1 million and $495.1 million, respectively, are included in Other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Deferred Sales Inducements For annuity products, these costs are being amortized in proportion to actual and expected gross profits. Actual and expected gross profits include the the excess of net investment income earned over the interest credited or the cost of providing index credits to the policyholders, or the "investment spread"; and to a lesser extent, product charges and fees net of expected excess payments for lifetime income benefit riders and certain policy expenses. Actual and expected gross profits for fixed index annuities also include the impact of amounts recorded for the change in fair value of derivatives and the change in fair value of embedded derivatives. Current period amortization is adjusted retrospectively through an unlocking process when estimates of actual and expected gross profits (including the impact of net realized gains (losses) on investments) to be realized from a group of products are revised. Deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements are also adjusted for the change in amortization that would have occurred if available for sale fixed maturity securities had been sold at their aggregate fair value at the end of the reporting period and the proceeds reinvested at current yields. The impact of this adjustment is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within consolidated stockholders' equity, net of applicable taxes. See Note 6 - Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements.
Deferred Sales Inducements, Policy	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Deferred Sales Inducements For annuity products, these costs are being amortized in proportion to actual and expected gross profits. Actual and expected gross profits include the the excess of net investment income earned over the interest credited or the cost of providing index credits to the policyholders, or the "investment spread"; and to a lesser extent, product charges and fees net of expected excess payments for lifetime income benefit riders and certain policy expenses. Actual and expected gross profits for fixed index annuities also include the impact of amounts recorded for the change in fair value of derivatives and the change in fair value of embedded derivatives. Current period amortization is adjusted retrospectively through an unlocking process when estimates of actual and expected gross profits (including the impact of net realized gains (losses) on investments) to be realized from a group of products are revised. Deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements are also adjusted for the change in amortization that would have occurred if available for sale fixed maturity securities had been sold at their aggregate fair value at the end of the reporting period and the proceeds reinvested at current yields. The impact of this adjustment is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within consolidated stockholders' equity, net of applicable taxes. See Note 6 - Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements.
Policy Benefit Reserves, Policy	Policy Benefit Reserves Policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities with returns linked to the performance of a specified market index are equal to the sum of the fair value of the embedded derivatives and the host (or guaranteed) component of the contracts. The host value is established at inception of the contract and accreted over the policy's life at a constant rate of interest. Future policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities earning a fixed rate of interest and other deferred annuity products are computed under a retrospective deposit method and represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, interest crediting rates for these products ranged from 1.45% to 2.60%. The liability for lifetime income benefit riders is based on the actual and present value of expected benefit payments to be paid in excess of projected policy values recognizing the excess over the expected lives of the underlying policies based on the actual and present value of expected assessments including investment spreads, product charges and fees. The inputs used in the calculation of the liability for lifetime income benefit riders include actual policy values, actual income account values, actual payout factors, actual roll-up rates and our best estimate assumptions for future policy growth, expected utilization of lifetime income benefit riders, which includes the ages at which policyholders are expected to elect to begin to receive lifetime income benefit payments and the percentage of policyholders who elect to receive lifetime income benefit payments, the type of income benefit payments selected upon election and future assumptions for lapse, partial withdrawal and mortality rates. See Note 6 - Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on lifetime income benefit rider reserves. Policy benefit reserves are not reduced for amounts ceded under coinsurance agreements which are reported as coinsurance deposits on our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 7 - Reinsurance and Policy Provisions for more information on reinsurance.
Deferred Income Taxes, Policy	Deferred Income Taxes Deferred income tax assets or liabilities are computed based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using the enacted marginal tax rate. The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities resulting from a change in the enacted marginal tax rate is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred income tax expenses or benefits are based on the changes in the asset or liability from period to period. Deferred income tax assets are subject to ongoing evaluation of whether such assets will more likely than not be realized. The realization of deferred income tax assets primarily depends on generating future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences become deductible. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In making such a determination, all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations, is considered. The realization of deferred income tax assets related to unrealized losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities is also based upon our intent and ability to hold those securities for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value and not realize the unrealized loss.
Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs, Policy	Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs Revenues for annuity products include surrender and living income benefit rider charges assessed against policyholder account balances during the period. Interest sensitive and index product benefits related to annuity products include interest credited or index credits to policyholder account balances pursuant to accounting by insurance companies for certain long-duration contracts. The change in fair value of the embedded derivatives for fixed index annuities equals the change in the difference between policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities computed under the derivative accounting standard and the long-duration contracts accounting standard at each balance sheet date. Considerations from immediate annuities and supplemental contract annuities with life contingencies are recognized as revenue when the policy is issued. All insurance-related revenues, including the change in the fair value of derivatives for call options related to the business ceded under coinsurance agreements (see Note 7 - Reinsurance and Policy Provisions), benefits, losses and expenses are reported net of reinsurance ceded.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Policy	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in stockholders' equity during a period except those resulting from investments by and distributions to stockholders. Other comprehensive income (loss) excludes net realized investment gains (losses) included in net income which merely represents transfers from unrealized to realized gains and losses.
Adopted and New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an accounting standards update ("ASU") that requires recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. This ASU affects accounting and disclosure more dramatically for lessees as accounting and disclosure for lessors is mainly unchanged. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. The adoption of this ASU resulted in the recognition of a lease asset and lease liability of $6.0 million, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019. In March 2017, the FASB issued an ASU that applies to certain callable debt securities where the amortized cost basis is at a premium to the price repayable by the issuer at the earliest call date. Under this guidance, the premium is amortized to the first call date. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. In February 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that allowed a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 ("Tax Reform"). We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018. The adoption of this ASU resulted in a reclassification of $128 million between accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and retained earnings within our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018. In June 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that expanded the scope of Accounting Standards Codification 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation, to include share-based payment transactions for acquiring goods and services to nonemployees and eliminated the existing accounting model for nonemployee share-based payment awards. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. While this ASU results in an earlier measurement date for our nonemployee restricted stock units that have not vested as of January 1, 2019, there was no impact to our consolidated financial statements upon adoption. In June 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that significantly changed the impairment model for most financial assets that are measured at amortized cost and certain other instruments from an incurred loss model to an expected loss model that requires these assets be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. In addition, credit losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities will be recorded through an allowance account subsequent to the adoption of this ASU. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2020. The adoption of this ASU resulted in an increase in our mortgage loan allowance for credit losses of $8.6 million and the recognition of an allowance for credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable/coinsurance deposits balances of $3.2 million on the date of adoption. Retained earnings was decreased by $9.3 million, which reflects the net of tax impact of the increase in the mortgage loan allowance for credit losses and the recognition of an allowance for credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable/coinsurance deposits balances on the date of adoption. New Accounting Pronouncements In August 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that revises certain aspects of the measurement models and disclosure requirements for long duration insurance and investment contracts. The FASB’s objective in issuing this ASU is to improve, simplify, and enhance the accounting for long-duration contracts. The revisions include updating cash flow assumptions in the calculation of the liability for traditional life products, introducing the term ‘market risk benefit’ ("MRB") and requiring all contract features meeting the definition of an MRB to be measured at fair value, simplifying the method used to amortize deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements to a constant basis over the expected term of the related contracts rather than based on actual and estimated gross profits and enhancing disclosure requirements. While this ASU is effective for us on January 1, 2023, the transition date (the remeasurement date) is January 1, 2021. Early adoption of this ASU is permitted. We are in the process of evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy	Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The objective of a fair value measurement is to determine that price for each financial instrument at each measurement date. We meet this objective using various methods of valuation that include market, income and cost approaches. We categorize our financial instruments into three levels of fair value hierarchy based on the priority of inputs used in determining fair value. The hierarchy defines the highest priority inputs (Level 1) as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The lowest priority inputs (Level 3) are our own assumptions about what a market participant would use in determining fair value such as estimated future cash flows. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, a financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument. We categorize financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets as follows: Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical financial instruments as of the reporting date. We do not adjust the quoted price for these financial instruments, even in situations where we hold a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price. Level 2 - Quoted prices in active markets for similar financial instruments, quoted prices for identical or similar financial instruments in markets that are not active; and models and other valuation methodologies using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable. Level 3 - Models and other valuation methodologies using significant inputs that are unobservable for financial instruments and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the financial instrument. The inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Financial instruments that are included in Level 3 are securities for which no market activity or data exists and for which we used discounted expected future cash flows with our own assumptions about what a market participant would use in determining fair value. Transfers of securities among the levels occur at times and depend on the type of inputs used to determine fair value of each security.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Valuation Allowance, Policy	Loan Valuation Allowance We establish a valuation allowance to provide for the risk of credit losses inherent in our mortgage loan portfolios. The valuation allowance is maintained at a level believed adequate by management to absorb estimated expected credit losses. The valuation allowance is based on amortized cost, which excludes accrued interest receivable. We do not measure a credit loss allowance on accrued interest receivable as we write off any uncollectible accrued interest receivable balances to net investment income in a timely manner. We did not charge off any uncollectible accrued interest receivable on our commercial, agricultural or residential mortgage loan portfolios for the year ended December 31, 2020. The valuation allowance for commercial mortgage loans is calculated by pooling our loans based on risk rating and property collateral type and applying an estimated loss ratio against each risk pool. Risk ratings are based on an analysis of the current state of the borrower's credit quality, which considers factors such as loan-to-value ("LTV") and debt service coverage ("DSC") ratios, loan performance and economic outlook, among others. The loss ratios are generally based upon historical loss experience for each risk pool and are adjusted for current and forecasted economic factors management believes to be relevant and supportable. Economic factors are forecasted for two years with immediate reversion to historical experience. A commercial loan is individually evaluated for impairment if it does not continue to share similar risk characteristics of a pool. A commercial mortgage loan that is individually evaluated is impaired when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. If we determine that the value of any specific mortgage loan is impaired, the carrying amount of the mortgage loan will be reduced to its fair value, based upon the present value of expected future cash flows from the loan discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or the fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated costs to sell. The valuation allowances for agricultural and residential mortgage loans are estimated by deriving probability of default and recovery rate assumptions based on the characteristics of the loans in our portfolio, historical economic data and loss information, and current and forecasted economics conditions. Key loan characteristics impacting the estimate include delinquency status, time to maturity, original credit scores and loan-to-value ratios.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Real Estate Acquired Through Foreclosure, Policy	Charge-offs include allowances that have been established on loans that were satisfied either by taking ownership of the collateral or by some other means such as discounted pay-off or loan sale. When ownership of the property is taken it is recorded at the lower of the loan's carrying value or the property's fair value (based on appraised values) less estimated costs to sell. The real estate owned is recorded as a component of Other investments and the loan is recorded as fully paid, with any allowance for credit loss that has been established charged off. Fair value of the real estate is determined by third party appraisal. Recoveries are situations where we have received a payment from the borrower in an amount greater than the carrying value of the loan (principal outstanding less specific allowance).
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Non-Accrual Loan Status, Policy	Commercial, agricultural and residential mortgage loans are considered delinquent when they become 60 days or more past due. When loans become more than 90 days past due they are considered nonperforming and we place them on non-accrual status and discontinue recognizing interest income. If payments are received on a delinquent loan, interest income is recognized to the extent it would have been recognized if normal principal and interest would have been received timely. If payments are received to bring a delinquent loan back to current, we will resume accruing interest income on that loan. There was one loan in non-accrual status at December 31, 2020. We recognized no interest income on loans in non-accrual status during the year ended December 31, 2020. There were no loans in non-accrual status at December 31, 2019. We recognized no interest income on loans in non-accrual status during the years ended December 31 2019, and 2018. Collateral dependent loans consist of loans for which we will depend on the value of the collateral real estate to satisfy the outstanding principal of the loan.
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Troubled Debt Restructuring, Policy	A Troubled Debt Restructuring ("TDR") is a situation where we have granted a concession to a borrower for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not otherwise consider. A mortgage loan that has been granted new terms, including workout terms as described previously, would be considered a TDR if it meets conditions that would indicate a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the new terms constitute a concession on our part. We analyze all loans where we have agreed to workout terms and all loans that we have refinanced to determine if they meet the definition of a TDR. We consider the following factors in determining whether or not a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty: •borrower is in default, •borrower has declared bankruptcy, •there is growing concern about the borrower's ability to continue as a going concern, •borrower has insufficient cash flows to service debt, •borrower's inability to obtain funds from other sources, and •there is a breach of financial covenants by the borrower. If the borrower is determined to be in financial difficulty, we consider the following conditions to determine if the borrower is granted a concession: •assets used to satisfy debt are less than our recorded investment, •interest rate is modified, •maturity date extension at an interest rate less than market rate, •capitalization of interest, •delaying principal and/or interest for a period of three months or more, and •partial forgiveness of the balance or charge-off. Mortgage loan workouts, refinances or restructures that are classified as TDRs are individually evaluated and measured for impairment.
Commitments and Contingencies, Policy	In accordance with applicable accounting guidelines, we establish an accrued liability for litigation and regulatory matters when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and estimable. As a litigation or regulatory matter is developing we, in conjunction with outside counsel, evaluate on an ongoing basis whether the matter presents a loss contingency that meets conditions indicating the need for accrual and/or disclosure, and if not, the matter will continue to be monitored for further developments. If and when the loss contingency related to litigation or regulatory matters is deemed to be both probable and estimable, we will establish an accrued liability with respect to that matter and will continue to monitor the matter for further developments that may affect the amount of the accrued liability.

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2020

Consolidation and Basis of Presentation, Policy

Consolidation and Basis of PresentationThe consolidated financial statements include our accounts and our wholly-owned subsidiaries: American Equity Life, American Equity Life of New York, Eagle Life, AERL, L.C., American Equity Capital, Inc., American Equity Investment Properties, L.C., American Equity Advisors, Inc. and American Equity Investment Service Company. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. As of December 31, 2018, American Equity Capital, Inc., American Equity Advisors, Inc. and American Equity Investment Service Company have been dissolved.

Estimates and Assumptions, Policy

Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates and assumptions are utilized in the calculation of deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements, policy benefit reserves, including the liability for lifetime income benefit riders and the fair value of embedded derivatives in fixed index annuity contracts, valuation of derivatives, valuation of investments, allowances for credit losses on available-for-sale fixed maturity securities, allowances for loan losses on mortgage loans and valuation allowances on deferred tax assets. A description of each critical estimate is incorporated within the discussion of the related accounting policies which follow. It is reasonably possible that actual experience could differ from the estimates and assumptions utilized.

Investments, Policy

Investments

Fixed maturity securities (bonds maturing more than one year after issuance) that may be sold prior to maturity are classified as available for sale. Available for sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized gains and losses, if any, on these securities are included directly in a separate component of stockholders' equity, net of income taxes and certain adjustments for assumed changes in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements. Fair values, as reported herein, of fixed maturity securities are based on quoted market prices in active markets when available, or for those fixed maturity securities not actively traded, yield data and other factors relating to instruments or securities with similar characteristics are used. See Note 2 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments for more information on the determination of fair value. Premiums and discounts are amortized/accrued using methods which result in a constant yield over the securities' expected lives. Amortization/accrual of premiums and discounts on residential and commercial mortgage backed securities incorporate prepayment assumptions to estimate the securities' expected lives. Interest income is recognized as earned.

Beginning in 2020, available-for-sale fixed maturity securities are subject to an allowance for credit loss and changes in the allowance are reported in net income as a component of net realized gains (losses) on investments. Prior to 2020, the amortized cost of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities was adjusted for declines in value that were other than temporary and impairments in value deemed to be other than temporary were reported as other than temporary impairment losses on investments. See Note 3 - Investments for further discussion of the allowance for credit losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities and other than temporary impairment losses.

Mortgage loans on real estate are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts and net of valuation allowances. Interest income is recorded when earned; however, interest ceases to accrue for loans on which interest is more than 90 days past due based upon contractual terms and/or when the collection of interest is not considered probable. Interest income on impaired loans is recorded on a cash basis. Any changes in the loan valuation allowances are reported in net realized gains (losses) on investments. See Note 4 - Mortgage Loans on Real Estate for further discussion of the valuation allowance on the mortgage loan portfolios.

Other invested assets include company owned life insurance, equity securities, limited partnerships accounted for using the equity method, short-term debt securities with maturities of greater than three months but less than twelve months when purchased and policy loans. Company owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the end of the reporting period, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement. Dividends are recognized when declared. Policy loans are stated at current unpaid principal balances.

Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of specific identification based on the trade date.

We review and analyze all investments on an ongoing basis for changes in market interest rates and credit deterioration. This review process includes analyzing our ability to recover the amortized cost basis of each investment that has a fair value that is materially lower than its amortized cost and requires a high degree of management judgment and involves uncertainty. The evaluation of securities for credit loss is a quantitative and qualitative process, which is subject to risks and uncertainties.

We have a policy and process to identify securities that could potentially have credit loss. This process involves monitoring market events and other items that could impact issuers. The evaluation includes but is not limited to such factors as:

•the extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost or cost;

•whether the issuer is current on all payments and all contractual payments have been made as agreed;

•the remaining payment terms and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer;

•the lack of ability to refinance due to liquidity problems in the credit market;

•the fair value of any underlying collateral;

•the existence of any credit protection available;

•our intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not we would be required to sell prior to recovery for debt securities;

•consideration of rating agency actions; and

•changes in estimated cash flows of mortgage and asset backed securities.

We determine whether an allowance for credit loss should be established for debt securities by assessing all facts and circumstances surrounding each security. Where the decline in fair value of debt securities is attributable to changes in market interest rates or to factors such as market volatility, liquidity and spread widening, and we anticipate recovery of all contractual or expected cash flows, we do not consider these investments to have credit loss because we do not intend to sell these investments and it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell these investments before a recovery of amortized cost, which may be maturity.

If we intend to sell a debt security or if it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell a debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, credit loss has occurred and the difference between amortized cost and fair value will be recognized as a loss in operations.

If we do not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell the debt security but also do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, a credit loss would be recognized in operations for the amount of the expected credit loss. We determine the amount of expected credit loss by calculating the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected discounted at each security's acquisition yield based on our consideration of whether the security was of high credit quality at the time of acquisition. The difference between the present value of expected future cash flows and the amortized cost basis of the security is the amount of credit loss recognized in operations. The recognized credit loss is limited to the total unrealized loss on the security (i.e., the fair value floor).

The determination of the credit loss component of a mortgage backed security is based on a number of factors. The primary consideration in this evaluation process is the issuer's ability to meet current and future interest and principal payments as contractually stated at time of purchase. Our review of these securities includes an analysis of the cash flow modeling under various default scenarios considering independent third party benchmarks, the seniority of the specific tranche within the structure of the security, the composition of the collateral and the actual default, loss severity and prepayment experience exhibited. With the input of third party assumptions for default projections, loss severity and prepayment expectations, we evaluate the cash flow projections to determine whether the security is performing in accordance with its contractual obligation.

We utilize models from a leading structured product software specialist serving institutional investors. These models incorporate each security's seniority and cash flow structure. In circumstances where the analysis implies a potential for principal loss at some point in the future, we use the "best estimate" cash flow projection discounted at the security's effective yield at acquisition to determine the amount of our potential credit loss associated with this security. The discounted expected future cash flows equates to our expected recovery value. Any shortfall of the expected recovery when compared to the amortized cost of the security will be recorded as credit loss.

The determination of the credit loss component of a corporate bond is based on the underlying financial performance of the issuer and their ability to meet their contractual obligations. Considerations in our evaluation include, but are not limited to, credit rating changes, financial statement and ratio analysis, changes in management, significant changes in credit spreads, breaches of financial covenants and a review of the economic outlook for the industry and markets in which they trade. In circumstances where an issuer appears unlikely to meet its future obligation, an estimate of credit loss is determined. Credit loss is calculated using default probabilities as derived from the credit default swaps markets in conjunction with recovery rates derived from independent third party analysis or a best estimate of credit loss. This credit loss rate is then incorporated into a present value calculation based on an expected principal loss in the future discounted at the yield at the date of purchase and compared to amortized cost to determine the amount of credit loss associated with the security.

We do not measure a credit loss allowance on accrued interest receivable as we write off any accrued interest receivable balance to net investment income in a timely manner when we have concerns regarding collectability.

Amounts on available for sale fixed maturities that are deemed to be uncollectible are written off and removed from the allowance for credit loss. A write-off may also occur if we intend to sell a security or when it is more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before the recovery of its amortized cost.

Derivative Instruments, Policy

Derivative Instruments

Our derivative instruments include call options used to fund fixed index annuity credits. Prior to the redemption of our floating rate subordinated debentures in 2019 and 2020, our derivative instruments also included an interest rate swap and interest rate caps which were used to manage interest rate risk associated with the floating rate component on certain of our subordinated debentures. All of our derivative instruments are recognized in the balance sheet at fair value and changes in fair value are recognized immediately in operations. See Note 5 - Derivative Instruments for more information on derivative instruments.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Book Overdrafts

Under our cash management system, checks issued but not yet presented to banks frequently result in overdraft balances for accounting purposes and are classified as Other liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets. We report the changes in the amount of the overdraft balance as a financing activity in our consolidated statement of cash flows as Change in checks in excess of cash balance.

Securities Lending, Policy

Securities Lending

The Company participates in a securities lending program whereby we loan certain securities to other institutions, through a lending agent, for short periods of time. The Company has the right to approve any institution with whom the lending agent transacts on its behalf. Borrowers post cash collateral in an amount equal to or greater than 102% of the market value of the loaned securities. The lending agent retains the collateral and invests it in short-term liquid assets on behalf of the Company. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value of the loaned securities fluctuates. The lending agent indemnifies the Company against losses resulting from the failure of a counterparty to return securities pledged where collateral is insufficient to cover the loss. During 2020, the Company decided to wind down its securities lending program. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the fair value of loaned securities was $0.1 million and $477.5 million, respectively, and is included in Fixed maturity securities, available for sale, at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, collateral retained by the lending agent and invested in liquid assets on our behalf was $0.1 million and $495.1 million, respectively, and is recorded in Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, liabilities to return collateral of $0.1 million and $495.1 million, respectively, are included in Other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Deferred Sales Inducements

For annuity products, these costs are being amortized in proportion to actual and expected gross profits. Actual and expected gross profits include the the excess of net investment income earned over the interest credited or the cost of providing index credits to the policyholders, or the "investment spread"; and to a lesser extent, product charges and fees net of expected excess payments for lifetime income benefit riders and certain policy expenses. Actual and expected gross profits for fixed index annuities also include the impact of amounts recorded for the change in fair value of derivatives and the change in fair value of embedded derivatives. Current period amortization is adjusted retrospectively through an unlocking process when estimates of actual and expected gross profits (including the impact of net realized gains (losses) on investments) to be realized from a group of products are revised. Deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements are also adjusted for the change in amortization that would have occurred if available for sale fixed maturity securities had been sold at their aggregate fair value at the end of the reporting period and the proceeds reinvested at current yields. The impact of this adjustment is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within consolidated stockholders' equity, net of applicable taxes. See Note 6 - Deferred

Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements.

Deferred Sales Inducements, Policy

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Deferred Sales Inducements

Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements.

Policy Benefit Reserves, Policy

Policy Benefit Reserves

Policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities with returns linked to the performance of a specified market index are equal to the sum of the fair value of the embedded derivatives and the host (or guaranteed) component of the contracts. The host value is established at inception of the contract and accreted over the policy's life at a constant rate of interest. Future policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities earning a fixed rate of interest and other deferred annuity products are computed under a retrospective deposit method and represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, interest crediting rates for these products ranged from 1.45% to 2.60%.

The liability for lifetime income benefit riders is based on the actual and present value of expected benefit payments to be paid in excess of projected policy values recognizing the excess over the expected lives of the underlying policies based on the actual and present value of expected assessments including investment spreads, product charges and fees. The inputs used in the calculation of the liability for lifetime income benefit riders include actual policy values, actual income account values, actual payout factors, actual roll-up rates and our best estimate assumptions for future policy growth, expected utilization of lifetime income benefit riders, which includes the ages at which policyholders are expected to elect to begin to receive lifetime income benefit payments and the percentage of policyholders who elect to receive lifetime income benefit payments, the type of income benefit payments selected upon election and future assumptions for lapse, partial withdrawal and mortality rates. See Note 6 - Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Deferred Sales Inducements and Liability for Lifetime Income Benefit Riders for more information on lifetime income benefit rider reserves.

Policy benefit reserves are not reduced for amounts ceded under coinsurance agreements which are reported as coinsurance deposits on our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 7 - Reinsurance and Policy Provisions for more information on reinsurance.

Deferred Income Taxes, Policy

Deferred Income Taxes

Deferred income tax assets or liabilities are computed based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using the enacted marginal tax rate. The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities resulting from a change in the enacted marginal tax rate is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred income tax expenses or benefits are based on the changes in the asset or liability from period to period. Deferred income tax assets are subject to ongoing evaluation of whether such assets will more likely than not be realized. The realization of deferred income tax assets primarily depends on generating future taxable income during the periods in which temporary differences become deductible. Deferred income tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In making such a determination, all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations, is considered. The realization of deferred income tax assets related to unrealized losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities is also based upon our intent and ability to hold those securities for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value and not realize the unrealized loss.

Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs, Policy

Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs

Revenues for annuity products include surrender and living income benefit rider charges assessed against policyholder account balances during the period. Interest sensitive and index product benefits related to annuity products include interest credited or index credits to policyholder account balances pursuant to accounting by insurance companies for certain long-duration contracts. The change in fair value of the embedded derivatives for fixed index annuities equals the change in the difference between policy benefit reserves for fixed index annuities computed under the derivative accounting standard and the long-duration contracts accounting standard at each balance sheet date.

Considerations from immediate annuities and supplemental contract annuities with life contingencies are recognized as revenue when the policy is issued.

All insurance-related revenues, including the change in the fair value of derivatives for call options related to the business ceded under coinsurance agreements (see Note 7 - Reinsurance and Policy Provisions), benefits, losses and expenses are reported net of reinsurance ceded.

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Policy

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Other comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in stockholders' equity during a period except those resulting from investments by and distributions to stockholders. Other comprehensive income (loss) excludes net realized investment gains (losses) included in net income which merely represents transfers from unrealized to realized gains and losses.

Adopted and New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy

Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an accounting standards update ("ASU") that requires recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. This ASU affects accounting and disclosure more dramatically for lessees as accounting and disclosure for lessors is mainly unchanged. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. The adoption of this ASU resulted in the recognition of a lease asset and lease liability of $6.0 million, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019.

In March 2017, the FASB issued an ASU that applies to certain callable debt securities where the amortized cost basis is at a premium to the price repayable by the issuer at the earliest call date. Under this guidance, the premium is amortized to the first call date. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that allowed a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 ("Tax Reform"). We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018. The adoption of this ASU resulted in a reclassification of $128 million between accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and retained earnings within our consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018.

In June 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that expanded the scope of Accounting Standards Codification 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation, to include share-based payment transactions for acquiring goods and services to nonemployees and eliminated the existing accounting model for nonemployee share-based payment awards. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2019. While this ASU results in an earlier measurement date for our nonemployee restricted stock units that have not vested as of January 1, 2019, there was no impact to our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.

In June 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that significantly changed the impairment model for most financial assets that are measured at amortized cost and certain other instruments from an incurred loss model to an expected loss model that requires these assets be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. In addition, credit losses on available for sale fixed maturity securities will be recorded through an allowance account subsequent to the adoption of this ASU. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2020. The adoption of this ASU resulted in an increase in our mortgage loan allowance for credit losses of $8.6 million and the recognition of an allowance for credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable/coinsurance deposits balances of $3.2 million on the date of adoption. Retained earnings was decreased by $9.3 million, which reflects the net of tax impact of the increase in the mortgage loan allowance for credit losses and the recognition of an allowance for credit losses on our reinsurance recoverable/coinsurance deposits balances on the date of adoption.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In August 2018, the FASB issued an ASU that revises certain aspects of the measurement models and disclosure requirements for long duration insurance and investment contracts. The FASB’s objective in issuing this ASU is to improve, simplify, and enhance the accounting for long-duration contracts. The revisions include updating cash flow assumptions in the calculation of the liability for traditional life products, introducing the term ‘market risk benefit’ ("MRB") and requiring all contract features meeting the definition of an MRB to be measured at fair value, simplifying the method used to amortize deferred policy acquisition costs and deferred sales inducements to a constant basis over the expected term of the related contracts rather than based on actual and estimated gross profits and enhancing disclosure requirements. While this ASU is effective for us on January 1, 2023, the transition date (the remeasurement date) is January 1, 2021. Early adoption of this ASU is permitted. We are in the process of evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The objective of a fair value measurement is to determine that price for each financial instrument at each measurement date. We meet this objective using various methods of valuation that include market, income and cost approaches.

We categorize our financial instruments into three levels of fair value hierarchy based on the priority of inputs used in determining fair value. The hierarchy defines the highest priority inputs (Level 1) as quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. The lowest priority inputs (Level 3) are our own assumptions about what a market participant would use in determining fair value such as estimated future cash flows. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, a financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument. We categorize financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets as follows:

Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical financial instruments as of the reporting date. We do not adjust the quoted price for these financial instruments, even in situations where we hold a large position and a sale could reasonably impact the quoted price.

Level 2 - Quoted prices in active markets for similar financial instruments, quoted prices for identical or similar financial instruments in markets that are not active; and models and other valuation methodologies using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable.

Level 3 - Models and other valuation methodologies using significant inputs that are unobservable for financial instruments and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the financial instrument. The inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Financial instruments that are included in Level 3 are securities for which no market activity or data exists and for which we used discounted expected future cash flows with our own assumptions about what a market participant would use in determining fair value.

Transfers of securities among the levels occur at times and depend on the type of inputs used to determine fair value of each security.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Valuation Allowance, Policy

Loan Valuation Allowance

We establish a valuation allowance to provide for the risk of credit losses inherent in our mortgage loan portfolios. The valuation allowance is maintained at a level believed adequate by management to absorb estimated expected credit losses. The valuation allowance is based on amortized cost, which excludes accrued interest receivable. We do not measure a credit loss allowance on accrued interest receivable as we write off any uncollectible accrued interest receivable balances to net investment income in a timely manner. We did not charge off any uncollectible accrued interest receivable on our commercial, agricultural or residential mortgage loan portfolios for the year ended December 31, 2020.

The valuation allowance for commercial mortgage loans is calculated by pooling our loans based on risk rating and property collateral type and applying an estimated loss ratio against each risk pool. Risk ratings are based on an analysis of the current state of the borrower's credit quality, which considers factors such as loan-to-value ("LTV") and debt service coverage ("DSC") ratios, loan performance and economic outlook, among others. The loss ratios are generally based upon historical loss experience for each risk pool and are adjusted for current and forecasted economic factors management believes to be relevant and supportable. Economic factors are forecasted for two years with immediate reversion to historical experience.

A commercial loan is individually evaluated for impairment if it does not continue to share similar risk characteristics of a pool. A commercial mortgage loan that is individually evaluated is impaired when it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. If we determine that the value of any specific mortgage loan is impaired, the carrying amount of the mortgage loan will be reduced to its fair value, based upon the present value of expected future cash flows from the loan discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or the fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated costs to sell.

The valuation allowances for agricultural and residential mortgage loans are estimated by deriving probability of default and recovery rate assumptions based on the characteristics of the loans in our portfolio, historical economic data and loss information, and current and forecasted economics conditions. Key loan characteristics impacting the estimate include delinquency status, time to maturity, original credit scores and loan-to-value ratios.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Real Estate Acquired Through Foreclosure, Policy

Charge-offs include allowances that have been established on loans that were satisfied either by taking ownership of the collateral or by some other means such as discounted pay-off or loan sale. When ownership of the property is taken it is recorded at the lower of the loan's carrying value or the property's fair value (based on appraised values) less estimated costs to sell. The real estate owned is recorded as a component of Other investments and the loan is recorded as fully paid, with any allowance for credit loss that has been established charged off. Fair value of the real estate is determined by third party appraisal. Recoveries are situations where we have received a payment from the borrower in an amount greater than the carrying value of the loan (principal outstanding less specific allowance).

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Non-Accrual Loan Status, Policy

Commercial, agricultural and residential mortgage loans are considered delinquent when they become 60 days or more past due. When loans become more than 90 days past due they are considered nonperforming and we place them on non-accrual status and discontinue recognizing interest income. If payments are received on a delinquent loan, interest income is recognized to the extent it would have been recognized if normal principal and interest would have been received timely. If payments are received to bring a delinquent loan back to current, we will resume accruing interest income on that loan. There was one loan in non-accrual status at December 31, 2020. We recognized no interest income on loans in non-accrual status during the year ended December 31, 2020. There were no loans in non-accrual status at December 31, 2019. We recognized no interest income on loans in non-accrual status during the years ended December 31 2019, and 2018. Collateral dependent loans consist of loans for which we will depend on the value of the collateral real estate to satisfy the outstanding principal of the loan.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Troubled Debt Restructuring, Policy

A Troubled Debt Restructuring ("TDR") is a situation where we have granted a concession to a borrower for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not otherwise consider. A mortgage loan that has been granted new terms, including workout terms as described previously, would be considered a TDR if it meets conditions that would indicate a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the new terms constitute a concession on our part. We analyze all loans where we have agreed to workout terms and all loans that we have refinanced to determine if they meet the definition of a TDR. We consider the following factors in determining whether or not a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty:

•borrower is in default,

•borrower has declared bankruptcy,

•there is growing concern about the borrower's ability to continue as a going concern,

•borrower has insufficient cash flows to service debt,

•borrower's inability to obtain funds from other sources, and

•there is a breach of financial covenants by the borrower.

If the borrower is determined to be in financial difficulty, we consider the following conditions to determine if the borrower is granted a concession:

•assets used to satisfy debt are less than our recorded investment,

•interest rate is modified,

•maturity date extension at an interest rate less than market rate,

•capitalization of interest,

•delaying principal and/or interest for a period of three months or more, and

•partial forgiveness of the balance or charge-off.

Mortgage loan workouts, refinances or restructures that are classified as TDRs are individually evaluated and measured for impairment.

Commitments and Contingencies, Policy

In accordance with applicable accounting guidelines, we establish an accrued liability for litigation and regulatory matters when those matters present loss contingencies that are both probable and estimable. As a litigation or regulatory matter is developing we, in conjunction with outside counsel, evaluate on an ongoing basis whether the matter presents a loss contingency that meets conditions indicating the need for accrual and/or disclosure, and if not, the matter will continue to be monitored for further developments. If and when the loss contingency related to litigation or regulatory matters is deemed to be both probable and estimable, we will establish an accrued liability with respect to that matter and will continue to monitor the matter for further developments that may affect the amount of the accrued liability.