SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2022

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. The policies conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and to general practices within the banking industry.

Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Report”) include the accounts of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. ("Guaranty"), Guaranty Bank & Trust N.A. (the "Bank") and indirect subsidiaries that are wholly-owned or controlled. Subsidiaries that are less than wholly owned are fully consolidated if they are controlled by Guaranty or one of its subsidiaries, and the portion of any subsidiary not owned by Guaranty is reported as noncontrolling interest. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The Bank has eight wholly-owned or controlled non-bank subsidiaries, Guaranty Company, Inc., G B COM, INC., 2800 South Texas Avenue LLC, Pin Oak Realty Holdings, Inc., Pin Oak Asset Management, LLC, Guaranty Bank & Trust Political Action Committee, White Oak Aviation, LLC and Caliber Guaranty Private Account, LLC, the entity which has a noncontrolling interest. The accounting and financial reporting policies followed by the Company conform, in all material respects, to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and to general practices within the financial services industry.

Basis of Presentation: All dollar amounts referenced and discussed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in this report are presented in thousands, unless noted otherwise.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates and assumptions may also affect disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Nature of Operations: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas that provides, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a broad array of financial products and services to individuals and corporate customers, primarily in its markets of East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Greater Houston and Central Texas. The terms “the Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” mean Guaranty and its subsidiaries, when appropriate. The Company’s main sources of income are derived from granting loans throughout its markets and investing in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury, U.S. government agencies and state and political subdivisions. The Company’s primary lending products are real estate, commercial and consumer loans. Although the Company has a diversified loan portfolio, a substantial portion of its debtors’ abilities to honor contracts is dependent on the economy of the State of Texas and primarily the economies of East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Greater Houston and Central Texas. The Company primarily funds its lending activities with deposit operations. The Company’s primary deposit products are checking accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit.

Use of Estimates: To prepare financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, management makes estimates and assumptions based on available information. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures provided. Actual future results could differ.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents include cash, due from banks, interest-bearing deposits with other banks that have initial maturities less than 90 days and federal funds sold. Net cash flows are reported for loan and deposit transactions, and short-term borrowings with initial maturities less than 90 days.

Marketable Securities: Securities are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive (loss) income. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of purchase or transfer. Interest income includes amortization and accretion of purchase premiums and discounts. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

Management evaluates securities that are in an unrealized loss position for credit-related factors, in order to determine if an allowance for credit losses is required. This evaluation is performed on at least a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, any previous allowance for credit loss is written off and the amortized cost basis of the securities is written down to fair value, through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, management will determine if the decline in fair value has resulted from a credit loss or other factors and apply the following: 1) recognize an allowance for credit loss by a charge to earnings for the credit-related component of the decline in fair value (subject to a floor of the excess of the amortized cost over fair value) and 2) recognize the noncredit-related component of the fair value decline, if any, in other comprehensive (loss) income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. To the extent that expected cash flows improve, the standard permits reversal of allowance amounts in the current period earnings.

Non-marketable Securities: Other securities, such as stock in The Independent Bankers Financial Corporation, the Federal Reserve Bank, and the Federal Home Loan Bank are accounted for on the cost basis and are carried in other assets. Stock in Valesco Commerce Street Capital, L.P., Valesco Fund II, L.P., Valesco Fund III, L.P., Independent Bankers Capital Fund III, L.P., Independent Bankers Capital Fund IV, L.P., Lightspring Capital I, L.P., Pharos Capital Partners IV-A, L.P., Bluehenge Capital SBIC II, L.P., JAM FINTOP Blockchain, L.P., JAM FINTOP Banktech, L.P., Castle Creek Launchpad Fund I, and Austin Housing Conservancy Fund are accounted for on the cost basis in other assets.

Loans Held for Sale: Certain residential mortgage loans are originated for sale in the secondary mortgage loan market. These loans are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value in the aggregate. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized through a valuation allowance by charges to income. To mitigate the interest rate risk, fixed commitments may be obtained at the time loans are originated or identified for sale. All sales are made without recourse. Gains or losses on sales of mortgage loans are recognized at settlement dates based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related mortgage loans sold.

Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future, or until maturity or payoff, are reported at their outstanding principal balances adjusted for any charge-offs, the allowance for credit losses, discounts and any deferred fees or costs on originated loans. Interest income was reported on the level-yield interest method and included amortization of net deferred loan fees and costs over the loan term.

Nonaccrual Loans: Loans are placed on nonaccrual status at ninety days past due or as determined by management, and interest is considered a loss. The accrual of interest on loans is discontinued when, in management’s opinion, the borrower may be unable to meet payments as they become due. When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed. Interest income is subsequently recognized only to the extent cash payments are received in excess of principal due. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

COVID-19: Government leaders and the Federal Reserve took several actions designed to mitigate the economic fallout resulting from the coronavirus ("COVID-19"). The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act, signed into law on March 27, 2020, authorized more than $2 trillion to battle COVID-19 and its economic effects, including immediate cash relief for individual citizens, loan programs for small businesses, support for hospitals and other medical providers, and various types of economic relief for impacted businesses and industries. The goal of CARES Act was to prevent severe economic downturn. The CARES Act also provided for temporary interest only or payment deferral modifications for loans without classifying them as troubled debt restructurings under current accounting rules. Additional government-backed hardship relief measures were signed into law in early 2021, as well as extension of many of the CARES Act provisions, throughout 2021 and 2022.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, market interest rates declined significantly, with the 10-year Treasury bond falling below 1.00% on March 3, 2020 for the first time. On March 16, 2020, the Federal Open Market Committee ("FOMC") reduced the target federal funds rate range to 0.00% to 0.25%, at which it remained until March 2022, when the FOMC began to rapidly increase market interest rates in response to high levels of inflation that arose in the U.S. economy. From March 2022 through December 31, 2022, the FOMC increased market rates from 0.00% to a target range of 4.25% to 4.5%. The FOMC

increased market rates by 0.25% in February 2023, and additional increases are expected during 2023. These rapid increases in interest rates, the impact of future rate increases, high levels of inflation and other lingering effects of the COVID-19 outbreak may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and results of operations, as well as business and consumer confidence. Economic uncertainties remain which can negatively impact net interest income and noninterest income.
 

Allowance for Credit Losses:

Held to Maturity Debt Securities

The allowance for credit losses on held to maturity securities is a contra-asset valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of held to maturity securities to present management's best estimate of the net amount expected to be collected. Held to maturity securities are charged-off against the allowance when deemed uncollectible. Adjustments to the allowance are reported in our income statement as a component of provision for credit losses. Management measures expected credit losses on held to maturity securities on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. As of December 31, 2022, our held to maturity securities consisted of U.S. government agencies, municipal bonds, treasury securities, collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued by the U.S. government and its agencies. With regard to the treasuries, collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities issued by the U.S. government, or agencies thereof, it is expected that the securities will not be settled at prices less than the amortized cost bases of the securities as such securities are backed by the full faith and credit of and/or guaranteed by the U.S. government. For municipal securities, management reviewed key risk indicators, including ratings by credit agencies when available, and determined that there is no current expectation of credit loss. Management has made the accounting policy election to exclude accrued interest receivable on held to maturity securities from the estimate of credit losses.

Available for Sale Debt Securities

For available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position, the Company first assesses whether or not it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the securities amortized cost basis is written down to fair value through income. For available for sale debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the Company evaluates whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. In making this assessment, management considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency, and adverse conditions specifically related to the security, among other factors. If this assessment indicates that a credit loss exists, the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected are less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and an allowance for credit losses is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the amortized cost basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through an allowance for credit losses is recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded as provisions for or reversal of credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the allowance when management believes a security is uncollectible or when either of the criteria regarding intent to sell or required to sell is met. Accrued interest receivable on securities is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.

Loans

The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the loans' amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected over the lifetime of the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Recoveries do not exceed the aggregate of

amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

Management estimates the allowance balance using relevant available information, from internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. We use the weighted-average remaining maturity method (WARM method) as the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses. The WARM method uses a historical average annual charge-off rate. This average annual charge-off rate contains loss content over a historical lookback period and is used as a foundation for estimating the credit loss reserve for the remaining outstanding balances of loans in a segment at the balance sheet date. The average annual charge-off rate is applied to the contractual term, further adjusted for estimated prepayments, to determine the unadjusted historical charge-off rate. The calculation of the unadjusted historical charge-off rate is then adjusted for current conditions and for reasonable and supportable forecast periods. Adjustments to historical loss information are made for differences in current loan-specific risk characteristics such as differences in underwriting standards, portfolio mix, delinquency level, or term as well as for changes in environmental conditions, such as changes in unemployment rates, property values, or other relevant factors. These qualitative factors serve to compensate for additional areas of uncertainty inherent in the portfolio that are not reflected in our historic loss factors.

The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool or segment) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Our loan portfolio segments include both regulatory call report codes and by internally identified risk ratings for our commercial loan segments and by delinquency status for our consumer loan segments. We also have separately identified our mortgage warehouse loans, internally originated SBA loans, SBA loans acquired from Westbound Bank in 2018 and loans originated under the Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") for inherent risk analysis. Accrued interest receivable on loans is excluded from the estimate of credit losses.

Below is a summary of the segments and certain of the inherent risks in the Company’s loan portfolio:

Commercial and industrial:	This portfolio segment includes general secured and unsecured commercial loans which are not secured by real estate or may be secured by real estate but made for the primary purpose of a short-term revolving line of credit. Credit risks inherent in this portfolio segment include fluctuations in the local and national economy.
Construction and development:	This portfolio segment includes all loans for the purpose of construction, including both business and residential structures; and real estate development loans, including non-agricultural vacant land. Credit risks inherent in this portfolio include fluctuations in property values, unemployment, and changes in the local and national economy.
Commercial real estate:	The commercial real estate portfolio segment includes all commercial loans that are secured by real estate, other than those included in the construction and development, farmland, multi-family, and 1-4 family residential segments. Risks inherent in this portfolio segment include fluctuations in property values and changes in the local and national economy impacting the sale or lease of the finished structures.
Farmland:	The farmland portfolio includes loans that are secured by real estate that is used or usable for agricultural purposes, including land used for crops, livestock production, grazing & pastureland and timberland. This segment includes land with a 1-4 family residential structure if the value of the land exceeds the value of the residence. Risks inherent in this portfolio segment include adverse changes in climate, fluctuations in feed and cattle prices and changes in property values.

Consumer:	This portfolio segment consists of non-real estate loans to consumers. This includes secured and unsecured loans such as auto and personal loans. The risks inherent in this portfolio segment include those factors that would impact the consumer’s ability to meet their obligations under the loan. These include increases in the local unemployment rate and fluctuations in consumer and business sales.
1-4 family residential:	This portfolio segment includes loans to both commercial and consumer borrowers secured by real estate for housing units of up to four families. Risks inherent in this portfolio segment include increases in the local unemployment rate, changes in the local economy and factors that would impact the value of the underlying collateral, such as changes in property values.
Multi-family residential:	This portfolio segment includes loans secured by structures containing five or more residential housing units. Risks inherent in this portfolio segment include increases to the local unemployment rate, changes in the local economy, and factors that would impact property values.
Agricultural:	The agricultural portfolio segment includes loans to individuals and companies in the dairy and cattle industries and farmers. Loans in the segment are secured by collateral including cattle, crops and equipment. Risks inherent in this portfolio segment include adverse changes in climate and fluctuations in feed and cattle prices.

The following groups of loans are considered to carry specific similar inherent risk characteristics, which the Bank considers separately during its calculation of the allowance for credit losses. These groups of loans are reported within the segments identified in the previous table.

Mortgage Warehouse:	The mortgage warehouse portfolio includes loans in which we purchase mortgage loan ownership interests from unaffiliated mortgage originators that are generally held by us for a period of less than 30-days, typically 5-10 days before they are sold to an approved investor. These loans are consistently underwritten based on standards established by the approved investor. Risks inherent in this portfolio include borrower or mortgage originator fraud.
SBA – Acquired Loans	The SBA – acquired loans segment consists of partially SBA guaranteed loans that were acquired from Westbound Bank in June 2018. These loans are commercial real estate and commercial and industrial in nature and were underwritten with guidelines that are less conservative than our Company. Risks inherent in this portfolio include increases in interest rates, as most are variable rate loans, generally lower levels of borrower equity, less conservative underwriting guidelines, fluctuations in real estate values and changes in the local and national economy.
SBA – Originated Loans	The SBA – originated loans segment consists of loans that are partially guaranteed by the SBA and were originated and underwritten by Guaranty Bank & Trust loan officers. Risks inherent in this portfolio include increases in interest rates due to variable rate structures, generally lower levels of borrower equity or net worth, fluctuations in real estate values and changes in the local and national economy.
SBA – Paycheck Protection Program Loans	Loans originated under the PPP are 100% government guaranteed by the SBA. As a result, the loans are excluded from the segments above and a minimal reserve estimate was applied to this segment of loans for purposes of calculating the credit loss provision.

In general, the loans in our portfolio have low historical credit losses. The credit quality of loans in our portfolio is impacted by delinquency status and debt service coverage generated by our borrowers’ businesses and fluctuations in the value of real estate collateral. Management considers delinquency status to be the most meaningful indicator of the credit quality of one-to-four single family residential, home equity loans and lines of credit and other consumer loans. In general, these types of loans do not begin to show signs of credit deterioration or default until they have been outstanding for some period of time, a process we refer to as “seasoning.” As a result, a portfolio of older loans will usually behave more predictably than a portfolio of newer loans. We consider the majority of our consumer type loans to be “seasoned” and that the credit quality and current level of delinquencies and defaults represents the level of reserve needed in the allowance for credit losses. If delinquencies and defaults were to increase, we may be required to increase our provision for credit losses, which would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Delinquency statistics are updated at least monthly.

Internal risk ratings are considered the most meaningful indicator of credit quality for new commercial and industrial, construction, and commercial real estate loans. Internal risk ratings are a key factor that impact management’s estimates of loss factors used in determining the amount of the allowance for credit losses. Internal risk ratings are updated on a continuous basis.

Loans that do not share risk characteristics are evaluated on an individual basis. Loans evaluated individually are not also included in the collective evaluation. When management determines that foreclosure is probable, expected credit losses are based on the fair value of the collateral at the reporting date, adjusted for selling costs as appropriate.

Credit Quality Indicators - The Company monitors the credit quality of the loans in the various segments by identifying and evaluating credit quality indicators specific to each segment class. This information is incorporated into management’s analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses. Information for the credit quality indicators is updated monthly or quarterly for classified assets and at least annually for the remainder of the portfolio.

The following is a discussion of the primary credit quality indicators most closely monitored for the loan portfolio, by class:

Commercial and industrial:	In assessing risk associated with commercial loans, management considers the business’s cash flow and the value of the underlying collateral to be the primary credit quality indicators.
Construction and development:	In assessing the credit quality of construction loans, management considers the ability of the borrower to make principal and interest payments in the event that they are unable to sell the completed structure to be a primary credit quality indicator. For real estate development loans, management also considers the likelihood of the successful sale of the constructed properties in the development.
Commercial real estate:	Management considers the strength of the borrower’s cash flows, changes in property values and occupancy status to be key credit quality indicators of commercial real estate loans.
Farmland:	In assessing risk associated with farmland loans, management considers the borrower’s cash flows and underlying property values to be key credit quality indicators.
Consumer:	Management considers delinquency status to be the primary credit quality indicator of consumer loans. Others include the debt to income ratio of the borrower, the borrower’s credit history, the availability of other credit to the borrower, the borrower’s past-due history, and, if applicable, the value of the underlying collateral to be primary credit quality indicators.

1-4 family residential:	Management considers delinquency status to be the primary credit quality indicator of 1-4 family residential loans. Others include changes in the local economy, changes in property values, and changes in local unemployment rates to be key credit quality indicators of the loans in the 1-4 family residential loan segment.
Multi-family residential:	Management considers changes in the local economy, changes in property values, vacancy rates and changes in local unemployment rates to be key credit quality indicators of the loans in the multifamily loan segment.
Agricultural:	In assessing risk associated with agricultural loans, management considers the borrower’s cash flows, the value of the underlying collateral and sources of secondary repayment to be primary credit quality indicators.

From time to time, we modify our loan agreement with a borrower. A modified loan is considered a troubled debt restructuring when two conditions are met: (i) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and (ii) concessions are made by us that would not otherwise be considered for a borrower with similar credit risk characteristics. Modifications to loan terms may include a lower interest rate, a reduction of principal, or a longer term to maturity. We review each troubled debt restructured loan and determine on a case-by-case basis if the loan can be grouped with its like segment for allowance consideration or whether it should be individually evaluated for a specific allowance for credit loss allocation. If individually evaluated, an allowance for credit loss allocation is based on either the present value of estimated future cash flows or the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, during 2020 and 2021, the Bank provided financial relief to many of its customers through a 3-month principal and interest payment deferral program or an up to 6-month interest only program. Pursuant to the CARES Act and the April 7, 2020 Interagency guidance and GAAP, these loan modifications, and certain subsequent modifications, are not considered to be troubled debt restructurings.

Reserve for Unfunded Commitments

The Company estimates expected credit losses over the contractual period in which the Company is exposed to credit risk via a contractual obligation to extend credit, unless that obligation is unconditionally cancelable by the Company. The allowance for credit losses on off balance sheet credit exposures is adjusted as a provision for credit loss expense. The estimate includes consideration of the likelihood that funding will occur and an estimate of expected credit losses on commitments expected to be funded over its estimated life.

Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Maintenance, repairs and minor improvements are charged to noninterest expense as incurred. The following table provides a summary of the estimated useful life of the different fixed asset classes as stated in the policy:

Bank Buildings	Up to 40 years
Equipment	to 10 years
Furniture and Fixtures	to 7 years
Software	to 5 years
Automobiles	to 4 years

Other Real Estate Owned: Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value, less estimated carrying and selling costs, when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. If fair value declines, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Costs after acquisition are expensed.

Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill resulting from business combinations is generally determined as the excess of the fair value of the consideration transferred, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree, over the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date. Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if events and circumstances exists that indicate that a goodwill impairment test should be performed. Intangible assets with definite useful lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values. Goodwill is the only intangible asset with an indefinite life on our balance sheet.

Impairment is tested for annually and exists when a reporting unit’s carrying value of goodwill exceeds its fair value. At the measurement date, the Company had positive equity and the Company elected to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, including goodwill. The qualitative assessment indicated that it was more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeded its carrying value, resulting in no impairment.

Core deposit intangibles represent premiums paid on acquired deposits based on the estimated fair value of the deposits at the time of purchase. These premiums are amortized over a ten year period.

Bank Owned Life Insurance: The Company has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. Bank owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are probable at settlement.

Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.

The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments, and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates. The fair value estimates of existing on and off-balance sheet financial instruments do not include the value of anticipated future business or the value of assets and liabilities not considered financial instruments.

Loss Contingencies: Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated.

Derivative Financial Instruments: The Company accounts for its derivatives under ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” which requires recognition of all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the balance sheet and requires measurement of those instruments at fair value through adjustments to accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income and/or current earnings, as appropriate. On the date the Company enters into a derivative contract, the Company designates the derivative instrument as either a fair value hedge, cash flow hedge or as a free-standing derivative instrument. For a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument and changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment attributable to the hedged risk are recorded in current period operations. For a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument, to the extent that it is effective, are recorded in accumulated

other comprehensive (loss) income and subsequently reclassified to operations in the same period(s) that the hedged transaction impacts operations. For free-standing derivative instruments, changes in fair value are reported in current period operations.

Prior to entering a hedge transaction, the Company formally documents the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivative instruments that are designated as fair value or cash flow hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific forecasted transactions along with a formal assessment at both inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis as to the effectiveness of the derivative instrument in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the hedged item. If it is determined that the derivative instrument is not highly effective as a hedge, hedge accounting is discontinued and the adjustment to fair value of the derivative instrument is recorded in operations. Likewise, if the risk exposure declines to acceptable levels, interest rate swaps may be terminated and the associated cost expensed or amortized and expensed, as appropriate.

Dividend Restriction: Banking regulations require the maintenance of certain capital levels that may limit the amount of dividends that may be paid. Regulatory capital requirements are more fully disclosed in Note 16.

Restrictions on Cash: The Company was not required to have cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements as of December 31, 2022 and 2021. Deposits held with the Federal Reserve Bank earn interest.

Stock Compensation: In accordance with ASC 718, “Stock Compensation,” the Company uses the fair value method of accounting for share-based compensation prescribed by the standard. The fair value of options granted is determined using the Black-Scholes option valuation model.

Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. For awards with graded vesting, compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

Earnings Per Share: Basic earnings per share is net income divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to nonforfeitable dividends are considered participating securities for this calculation. Diluted earnings per share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options. Earnings and dividends per share are presented as if all stock splits and stock dividends were effective from the earliest period presented through the date of issuance of the financial statements.

Comprehensive Income: Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive (loss) income. Other comprehensive (loss) income includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, unrealized gains and losses on securities transferred from available for sale to held to maturity and unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges which are also recognized as separate components of equity.

Operating Segments: While the chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis.

Operating segments are aggregated into one as operating results for all segments are similar. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

Revenue Recognition: ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), establishes principles for reporting information about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from the entity's contracts to provide goods or services to customers. The core principle requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration that it expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for those goods or services recognized as performance obligations are satisfied.

The majority of the Company's revenue-generating transactions are not subject to Topic 606, including revenue generated from financial instruments, such as loans, letters of credit, loan processing fees and investment securities, as well as revenue related to mortgage banking activities, and BOLI, as these activities are subject to other accounting guidance. Descriptions of revenue-generating activities that are within the scope of Topic 606, and are presented in the accompanying

consolidated statements of earnings as components of noninterest income, are as follows:
 

•Deposit services. Service charges on deposit accounts include fees for banking services provided, overdrafts and non-sufficient funds. Revenue is generally recognized as incurred in accordance with published deposit account agreements for retail accounts or contractual agreements for commercial accounts.

•
Merchant and debit card fees. Merchant and debit card fees include interchange income that is generated by our customers’ usage and volume of activity. Interchange rates are not controlled by the Company, which effectively acts as processor that collects and remits payments associated with customer debit card transactions. Merchant service revenue is derived from third party vendors that process credit card transactions on behalf of our merchant customers. Merchant services revenue is recognized as incurred and is primarily comprised of residual fee income based on the referred merchant’s processing volumes and/or margin.

•Fiduciary income. Trust income includes fees and commissions from investment management, administrative and advisory services primarily for individuals, and to a lesser extent, partnerships and corporations. Investment management income is recognized on an accrual basis at the time the services are performed and when we have a right to invoice and are based on either the market value of the assets managed or the services provided. Administrative and advisory services income is recognized as incurred.

•Other noninterest income. Other noninterest income includes among other things, mortgage loan origination fees, wire transfer fees, stop payment fees, loan administration fees and mortgage warehouse lending fees. The majority of these fees in other noninterest income are not subject to the requirements of ASC 606. Fees that are within the scope of ASC 606 are generally received and recognized as revenue at the time the performance obligations are met.

Reclassification: Certain amounts in prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation. These reclassifications are immaterial and have no effect on net income, total assets or stockholders' equity.

Effect of Stock Splits and Stock Dividends on Prior Period Presentation: Earnings and dividends per share and weighted average shares outstanding are presented as if all stock splits and stock dividends were effective from the earliest period presented through the date of issuance of the financial statements. Unless indicated otherwise, other share amounts have not been adjusted.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements:

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which sets forth a "current expected credit loss" ("CECL") model requiring the Company to measure all expected credit losses for financial instruments held at the reporting date based on historical experience, current conditions and reasonable supportable forecasts. This replaces the previous incurred loss model and is applicable to the measurement of credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost and applies to some off-balance sheet credit exposures. For public companies, the amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company adopted CECL on January 1, 2020. The day one impact of adopting CECL resulted in an allowance increase of $4,548, or 28.1%, from December 31, 2019. The day one increase was primarily due to recognizing expected lifetime losses in the portfolio and adding an economic forecast based upon our assumptions on January 1, 2020. The significant increase in the ACL provision during the year-end December 31, 2020 resulted primarily from changes in our CECL model assumptions as a result of COVID-19. The Company adopted ASC 326 using the modified retrospective method for all financial assets measured at amortized cost and off-balance-sheet (“OBS”) credit exposures. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2020 are presented under ASC 326 while prior period amounts continue to be reported in accordance with previously applicable GAAP. The Company recorded a decrease to retained earnings of $3,593, net of tax effects of $955, as of January 1, 2020 for the cumulative effect of adopting ASC 326. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 did not have a significant impact on our regulatory capital ratios.

In March 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures, which eliminates the recognition and measurement guidance for troubled debt

restructurings ("TDRs") by creditors in ASC 310-40. The update also enhances disclosure requirements for certain loan restructurings by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. Specially, rather than applying the recognition and measurement guidance for TDRs, an entity will apply the loan refinancing and restructuring guidance to determine whether a modification or other form of restructuring results in a new loan or a continuation of an existing loan. Finally, the amendments in this ASU require a public business entity to disclose current-period gross write-offs by year of origination for financing receivables and net investments in leases in the existing vintage disclosures. The Company adopted this ASU effective on January 1, 2023, and used the prospective method, which did not have a significant impact on its consolidated financial statements.