Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include Central Federal Corporation (the Holding Company), its wholly-owned subsidiaries, CFBank, Ghent Road, Inc., and Smith Ghent LLC, together referred to as “the Company”. Ghent Road, Inc. was formed in 2006 and owns real property. Prior to October 2009, the Holding Company owned a one-third interest in Smith Ghent LLC, which owns the Company’s headquarters in Fairlawn, Ohio. The Holding Company purchased the remaining two-thirds interest in October 2009. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. CFBank provides financial services through its four full-service banking offices in Fairlawn, Calcutta, Wellsville and Worthington, Ohio. Its primary deposit products are checking, savings, money market and term certificate accounts, and its primary lending products are commercial and residential mortgages and commercial and installment loans. There are no significant concentrations of loans to any one industry or customer. However, the customers’ ability to repay their loans is dependent on the real estate and general economic conditions in the customers’ geographic areas. Use of Estimates: To prepare financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), 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, and actual results could differ. The allowance for loan losses (ALLL), deferred tax assets and fair values of financial instruments are particularly subject to change. Cash Flows: Cash and cash equivalents include cash, deposits with other financial institutions with maturities fewer than 90 days and federal funds sold. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions, interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions and borrowings with original maturities under 90 days. Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Financial Institutions: Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions mature at various times through September 2014 and are carried at cost. Securities: Debt 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. Debt securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are classified as available for sale. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax. Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method. Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) at least on 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 will more likely than not 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, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) OTTI related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive 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. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized through earnings. Loans Held for Sale: Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at fair value, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors. The Company adopted the option to account for loans held for sale at fair value for all loans originated beginning January 1, 2010. Mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with servicing rights released. The carrying value of mortgage loans sold is reduced by the amount allocated to the servicing right when mortgage loans held for sale are sold with servicing rights retained. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold. Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, adjusted for purchase premiums and discounts, deferred loan fees and costs, accrued interest receivable and an ALLL. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments. The recorded investment in loans includes accrued interest receivable. The accrual of interest income on all classes of loans, except other consumer loans, is discontinued and the loan is placed on nonaccrual status at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the loan is well-secured and in process of collection. Other consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 90 days past due. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan for all classes of loans. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Nonaccrual loans and loans past due 90 days still on accrual include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified impaired loans. Commercial, multi-family residential real estate loans and commercial real estate loans placed on nonaccrual status are individually classified as impaired loans. All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. Concentration of Credit Risk: Most of the Company’s primary business activity is with customers located within the Ohio counties of Columbiana, Franklin, Summit and contiguous counties. Therefore, the Company’s exposure to credit risk is significantly affected by changes in the economies within these counties. Although these counties are the Company’s primary market area for loans, the Company originates residential and commercial real estate loans throughout the United States. Allowance for Loan Losses: The ALLL is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off. The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired. A loan is impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that CFBank will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Loans within any loan class for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, are considered troubled debt restructurings (TDRs) and classified as impaired. Factors considered by management in determining impairment for all loan classes include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Loans of all classes within the commercial, multi-family residential and commercial real estate segments, regardless of size, and loans of all other classes with balances over $500 are individually evaluated for impairment when they are 90 days past due, or earlier than 90 days past due if information regarding the payment capacity of the borrower indicates that payment in full according to the loan terms is doubtful. If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. Large groups of smaller balance loans, such as consumer and single-family residential real estate loans are collectively evaluated for impairment, and accordingly, they are not separately identified for impairment disclosures. TDRs of all classes of loans are separately identified for impairment disclosures and are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception. If a TDR is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral. For TDRs that subsequently default, the amount of reserve is determined in accordance with the accounting policy for the ALLL. Interest income on all classes of impaired loans that are on nonaccrual status is recognized in accordance with the accounting policy on nonaccrual loans. Cash receipts on all classes of impaired loans that are on nonaccrual status are generally applied to the principal balance outstanding. Interest income on all classes of impaired loans that are not on nonaccrual status is recognized on the accrual method. TDRs may be classified as accruing if the borrower has been current for a period of at least six months with respect to loan payments and management expects that the borrower will be able to continue to make payments in accordance with the terms of the restructured note. The general component covers non-impaired loans of all classes and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience is determined by loan class and is based on the actual loss history experienced by the Company over the most recent year. This actual loss experience is supplemented with other economic factors based on the risks present for each loan class. These economic factors include consideration of the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; trends in volume and terms of loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures, and practices; experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; national and local economic trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. The general component is calculated based on CFBank’s loan balances and actual historical payment default rates. For loans with no actual payment default history, industry estimates of payment default rates are applied based on loan segment and the state where the collateral is located. Results are then scaled based on CFBank’s internal loan risk ratings, and industry loss rates are applied based on loan segment. Industry information is modified based on management’s judgment regarding items specific to CFBank, and primarily include the historical loss experience of each loan class, the level and trend of past due and nonaccrual loans in each loan class and the current economic outlook. The following portfolio segments have been identified: commercial loans, single-family residential real estate loans; multi-family residential real estate loans; commercial real estate loans; construction loans; home equity lines of credit; and other consumer loans. A description of each segment of the loan portfolio, along with the risk characteristics of each segment is included below: Commercial loans: Commercial loans include loans to businesses generally located within our primary market area. Those loans are generally secured by business equipment, inventory, accounts receivable and other business assets. In underwriting commercial loans, we consider the net operating income of the company, the debt service ratio and the financial strength, expertise and credit history of the business owners and/or guarantors. Because payments on commercial loans are dependent on successful operation of the business enterprise, repayment of such loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the economy. We seek to mitigate these risks through underwriting policies which require such loans to be qualified at origination on the basis of the enterprise’s financial performance and the financial strength of the business owners and/or guarantors. Single-family residential real estate loans: Single-family residential real estate loans include permanent conventional mortgage loans secured by single-family residences located within and outside of our primary market area. Credit approval for single-family residential real estate loans requires demonstration of sufficient income to repay the principal and interest and the real estate taxes and insurance, stability of employment and an established credit record. Our policy is to originate single-family residential real estate loans for portfolio in amounts up to 85% of the lower of the appraised value or the purchase price of the property securing the loan, without requiring private mortgage insurance. Loans in excess of 85% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property securing the loan require private mortgage insurance. CFBank has not engaged in subprime lending, used option adjustable-rate mortgage products or made loans with initial teaser rates. Multi-family residential real estate loans: Multi-family residential real estate loans include loans secured by apartment buildings, condominiums and multi-family residential houses generally located within our primary market area. Underwriting policies provide that multi-family residential real estate loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property. In underwriting multi-family residential real estate loans, we consider the appraised value and net operating income of the property, the debt service ratio and the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. We offer both fixed and adjustable rate loans. Fixed rates are generally limited to three to five years, at which time they convert to adjustable rate loans. Because payments on loans secured by multi-family residential properties are dependent on successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of multi-family residential real estate loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans generally pose credit risks not inherent in fixed-rate loans, primarily because as interest rates rise, the borrowers’ payments rise, increasing the potential for default. Additionally, adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans generally do not contain periodic and lifetime caps on interest rate changes. We seek to minimize the additional risk presented by adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans through underwriting criteria that require such loans to be qualified at origination with sufficient debt coverage ratios under increasing interest rate scenarios. Commercial real estate loans: Commercial real estate loans include loans secured by owner occupied and non-owner occupied properties used for business purposes, such as manufacturing facilities, office buildings or retail facilities generally located within our primary market area. Underwriting policies provide that commercial real estate loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property. In underwriting commercial real estate loans, we consider the appraised value and net operating income of the property, the debt service ratio and the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. We offer both fixed and adjustable rate loans. Fixed rates are generally limited to three to five years, at which time they convert to adjustable rate loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate properties are dependent on successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of commercial real estate loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Adjustable rate commercial real estate loans generally pose credit risks not inherent in fixed-rate loans, primarily because as interest rates rise, the borrowers’ payments rise, increasing the potential for default. Additionally, adjustable rate commercial real estate loans generally do not contain periodic and lifetime caps on interest rate changes. We seek to minimize the additional risk presented by adjustable rate commercial real estate loans through underwriting criteria that require such loans to be qualified at origination with sufficient debt coverage ratios under increasing interest rate scenarios. Construction loans: Construction loans include loans to finance the construction of residential and commercial properties generally located within our primary market area. Construction loans are fixed or adjustable-rate loans which may convert to permanent loans with maturities of up to 30 years. Our policies provide that construction loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the appraised value of the property, and an independent appraisal of the property is required. Loan proceeds are disbursed in increments as construction progresses and as inspections warrant, and regular inspections are required to monitor the progress of construction. In underwriting construction loans, we consider the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. Construction financing is considered to involve a higher degree of credit risk than long-term financing on improved, owner occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan is dependent largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction or development compared to the estimated cost (including interest) of construction. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, we may be confronted with a project, when completed, having a value which is insufficient to assure full repayment. We attempt to reduce such risks on construction loans through inspections of construction progress on the property and by requiring personal guarantees and reviewing current personal financial statements and tax returns, as well as other projects of the developer. Home equity lines of credit: Home equity lines of credit include both loans we originate for portfolio and purchased loans. We originate home equity lines of credit to customers generally within our primary market area. Home equity lines of credit are variable rate loans and the interest rate adjusts monthly at various margins above the prime rate of interest as disclosed in The Wall Street Journal. The margin is based on certain factors including the loan balance, value of collateral, election of auto-payment, and the borrower’s FICO^® score. The amount of the line is based on the borrower’s credit, income and equity in the home. When combined with the balance of the prior mortgage liens, these lines generally may not exceed 89.9% of the appraised value of the property at the time of the loan commitment. The lines are secured by a subordinate lien on the underlying real estate and are, therefore, vulnerable to declines in property values in the geographic areas where the properties are located. Credit approval for home equity lines of credit requires income sufficient to repay principal and interest due, stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral. Collectibility of home equity lines of credit are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances. In 2005 and 2006, we purchased home equity lines of credit collateralized by properties located throughout the United States. The purchased home equity lines of credit present higher risk than the home equity lines of credit we originate for our portfolio as they include properties in geographic areas that have experienced significant declines in housing values, such as California, Florida and Virginia. The collateral values associated with certain loans in these states have declined by up to approximately 55% since these loans were originated in 2005 and 2006, and as a result, some loan balances exceed collateral values. We continue to monitor collateral values and borrower FICO ^® scores on both purchased and portfolio loans and, when the situation warrants, have frozen the lines of credit. Other consumer loans: Other consumer loans include closed-end home equity, home improvement, auto and credit card loans to consumers generally located within our primary market area. Credit approval for other consumer loans requires income sufficient to repay principal and interest due, stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral for secured loans. Consumer loans typically have shorter terms and lower balances with higher yields as compared to real estate mortgage loans, but generally carry higher risks of default. Consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances. CFBank’s charge-off policy for commercial loans, single-family residential real estate loans, multi-family residential real estate loans, commercial real estate loans, construction loans and home equity lines of credit requires management to record a specific reserve or charge-off as soon as it is apparent that the borrower is troubled and there is, or likely will be a collateral shortfall related to the estimated value of the collateral securing the loan. Other consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 90 days past due. Servicing Rights: When mortgage loans are sold with servicing retained, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gains on sales of loans. Fair value is based on market prices for comparable mortgage servicing contracts, when available, or alternatively, is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans. Servicing assets are evaluated for impairment based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to carrying amount. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into groupings based on predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual grouping, to the extent that fair value is less than the carrying amount. If it is later determined that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Changes in valuation allowances are reported with loan servicing fees, net on the income statement. The fair values of servicing rights are subject to significant fluctuations as a result of changes in estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Servicing fee income, which is reported on the income statement as loan servicing fees, net is recorded for fees earned for servicing loans. The fees are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal, or a fixed amount per loan, and are recorded as income when earned. The amortization of mortgage servicing rights is netted against loan servicing fee income. Loan servicing fees, net totaled $22, $21 and $36 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material. Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, 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 the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity. Foreclosed Assets: Assets acquired through or instead of loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. If fair value declines subsequent to foreclosure, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Operating costs after acquisition are expensed. Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Buildings and related components are depreciated using the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years. Furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 2 to 25 years. Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) stock: CFBank is a member of the FHLB system. Members are required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors, and may invest in additional amounts. FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income. Bank Owned Life Insurance: CFBank purchased life insurance policies on certain directors and employees in 2002. 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. Other Intangible Assets: Other intangible assets consist of identified intangibles from the purchase of the remaining two-thirds interest in Smith Ghent LLC in October 2009. The intangible asset was initially measured at fair value and is being amortized on a straight-line method over the estimated life of 4.5 years. Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include off-balance-sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded. Derivatives: Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at fair value. The Company’s derivatives consist mainly of interest rate swap agreements, which are used as part of its asset liability management program to help manage interest rate risk. The Company does not use derivatives for trading purposes. The derivative transactions are considered instruments with no hedging designation, otherwise known as stand-alone derivatives. Changes in the fair value of the derivatives are reported currently in earnings, as other noninterest income. Mortgage Banking Derivatives: Commitments to fund mortgage loans to be sold into the secondary market, otherwise known as interest rate locks, are accounted for as free standing derivatives. Fair values of these mortgage derivatives are based on anticipated gains on the underlying loans. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are included in net gains on sales of loans. Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to directors and employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards. 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 required service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Income Taxes: Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. 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 of $4,312 was recorded in 2009 to reduce the carrying amount of the Company’s net deferred tax asset to zero. See Note 14 – Income Taxes. 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 related to income tax matters as interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters as other noninterest expense. Retirement Plans: Pension expense is the amount of annual contributions to the multi-employer contributory trusteed pension plan. Employee 401(k) and profit sharing plan expense is the amount of matching contributions. Supplemental retirement plan expense allocates the benefits over years of service. Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share: Basic earnings (loss) per common share is net income (loss) available to common stockholders 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 (loss) per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options and the common stock warrant. Comprehensive Income (Loss): Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, which are also recognized as a separate component of equity. 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. Management does not believe there now are such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements. See Note 25 – Contingent Liabilities. Restrictions on Cash: Cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) is required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements. Cash on deposit with the FHLB includes $800 pledged as collateral for FHLB advances. Equity: Treasury stock is carried at cost. The carrying value of preferred stock and the common stock warrant is based on allocation of issuance proceeds, net of issuance costs, in proportion to their relative fair values. Preferred stock is carried net of the discount established through the allocation of proceeds. Dividend Restriction: Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by CFBank to the Holding Company or by the Holding Company to stockholders. On December 5, 2008, the Company issued 7,225 shares of Central Federal Corporation Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (Preferred Stock) to the United States Department of the Treasury (U.S. Treasury) under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) Capital Purchase Program. While the Preferred Stock remains outstanding, dividends on the Company’s common stock are limited to a quarterly cash dividend of a maximum of $.05 per share. In addition, while any dividends on the Preferred Stock remain unpaid, no dividends may be declared or paid on common stock. Pursuant to Holding Company Order, as defined in Note 2 Going Concern Consideration and Management’s Plans, the Holding Company may not declare, make, or pay any cash dividends (including dividends on the preferred stock, or its common stock) or other capital distributions or purchase, repurchase or redeem or commit to purchase, repurchase, or redeem any Holding Company equity stock without the prior written non-objection of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (FED). Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 6 – Fair Value. 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 these estimates. Operating Segments: While the chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the Company’s various products and services, operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis. Operating results are not reviewed by senior management to make resource allocation or performance decisions. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment. Reclassifications: Some items in the prior year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on prior year net loss or stockholders’ equity. Adoption of New Accounting Standards: In April 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2011-02 to Receivables (ASC 310), A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring. This ASU amended existing guidance for assisting a creditor in determining whether a restructuring is a TDR. The amendments clarify the guidance for a creditor’s evaluation of whether it has granted a concession and whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties. With regard to determining whether a concession has been granted, the ASU clarifies that creditors are precluded from using the effective interest method to determine whether a concession has been granted. In the absence of using the effective interest method, a creditor must now focus on other considerations such as the value of the underlying collateral, evaluation of other collateral or guarantees, the debtor’s ability to access other funds at market rates, interest rate increases and whether the restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2011 and should be applied retrospectively to the beginning of the annual period of adoption. For purposes of measuring impairment on newly identified TDRs, the amendments should be applied prospectively for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after June 15, 2011. As a result of adopting the amendments in ASU No. 2011-02, CFBank reassessed all restructurings that occurred on or after the beginning of the current fiscal year (January 1, 2011) for identification as TDRs. CFBank identified as TDRs certain receivables for which the allowance for credit losses had previously been measured under a general allowance for credit losses methodology. Upon identifying those receivables as TDRs, CFBank identified them as impaired under the guidance in Section 310-10-35. The amendments in ASU No. 2011-02 require prospective application of the impairment measurement guidance in Section 310-10-35 for those receivables newly identified as impaired. At the end of the first annual period of adoption (December 31, 2011), the recorded investment in receivables for which the allowance for credit losses was previously measured under a general allowance for credit losses methodology and are now impaired under Section 310-10-35 was $4,478, and the allowance for credit losses associated with those receivables, on the basis of a current valuation of loss, was $850. In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-09 to Compensation – Retirement Benefits – Multiemployer Plans, (ASC 715), Disclosures about an Employer’s Participation in a Multiemployer Plan. The amendments in this ASU require that employers who participate in multiemployer pension plans provide additional quantitative and qualitative disclosures. The amended disclosures will provide users with more detailed information about an employer’s involvement in multiemployer pension plans, including: the plan names and identifying numbers, the level of an employer’s participation in the plans including contributions, the financial health of the multiemployer plans including the funded status, and the nature of the employer commitments to the plan. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied retrospectively for all prior periods presented. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Effect of Newly Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards: In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04 to Fair Value Measurement (ASC 820), Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements is U.S. GAAP and IFRSs. This ASU amends existing guidance to achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements between U.S. and international accounting principles. Overall, the guidance is consistent with existing U.S. accounting principles; however, there are some amendments that change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. The amendments in this guidance are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on the consolidated financial statements. In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05 to Comprehensive Income (ASC 220), Presentation of Comprehensive Income. This ASU amended existing guidance and eliminated the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholder’s equity. The amendment requires that comprehensive income be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate consecutive statements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011 and are to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this amendment will change the Company’s presentation of the components of other comprehensive income, which is currently shown as part of the consolidated statement of changes in stockholder’s equity. In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-12 to Comprehensive Income (ASC 220), Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in ASU 2011-05. This ASU amended the guidance in ASU 2011-05 related to the presentation of the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the components of net income and other comprehensive income. The amendments in this ASU are effective at the same time as the amendments in ASU 2011-05 so that entities will not be required to comply with the presentation requirements in ASU 2011-05 that this ASU is deferring. The amendments in this ASU are effective for public entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include Central Federal Corporation (the Holding Company), its wholly-owned subsidiaries, CFBank, Ghent Road, Inc., and Smith Ghent LLC, together referred to as “the Company”. Ghent Road, Inc. was formed in 2006 and owns real property. Prior to October 2009, the Holding Company owned a one-third interest in Smith Ghent LLC, which owns the Company’s headquarters in Fairlawn, Ohio. The Holding Company purchased the remaining two-thirds interest in October 2009. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

CFBank provides financial services through its four full-service banking offices in Fairlawn, Calcutta, Wellsville and Worthington, Ohio. Its primary deposit products are checking, savings, money market and term certificate accounts, and its primary lending products are commercial and residential mortgages and commercial and installment loans. There are no significant concentrations of loans to any one industry or customer. However, the customers’ ability to repay their loans is dependent on the real estate and general economic conditions in the customers’ geographic areas.

Use of Estimates: To prepare financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), 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, and actual results could differ. The allowance for loan losses (ALLL), deferred tax assets and fair values of financial instruments are particularly subject to change.

Cash Flows: Cash and cash equivalents include cash, deposits with other financial institutions with maturities fewer than 90 days and federal funds sold. Net cash flows are reported for customer loan and deposit transactions, interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions and borrowings with original maturities under 90 days.

Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Financial Institutions: Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions mature at various times through September 2014 and are carried at cost.

Securities: Debt 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. Debt securities are classified as available for sale when they might be sold before maturity. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are classified as available for sale. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income, net of tax.

Interest income includes amortization of purchase premium or discount. Premiums and discounts on securities are amortized on the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments, except for mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations where prepayments are anticipated. Gains and losses on sales are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) at least on 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 will more likely than not 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, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) OTTI related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive 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. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized through earnings.

Loans Held for Sale: Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at fair value, as determined by outstanding commitments from investors. The Company adopted the option to account for loans held for sale at fair value for all loans originated beginning January 1, 2010.

Mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with servicing rights released. The carrying value of mortgage loans sold is reduced by the amount allocated to the servicing right when mortgage loans held for sale are sold with servicing rights retained. Gains and losses on sales of mortgage loans are based on the difference between the selling price and the carrying value of the related loan sold.

Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, adjusted for purchase premiums and discounts, deferred loan fees and costs, accrued interest receivable and an ALLL. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized in interest income using the level-yield method without anticipating prepayments. The recorded investment in loans includes accrued interest receivable.

The accrual of interest income on all classes of loans, except other consumer loans, is discontinued and the loan is placed on nonaccrual status at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the loan is well-secured and in process of collection. Other consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 90 days past due. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan for all classes of loans. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Nonaccrual loans and loans past due 90 days still on accrual include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated for impairment and individually classified impaired loans. Commercial, multi-family residential real estate loans and commercial real estate loans placed on nonaccrual status are individually classified as impaired loans.

All interest accrued but not received for loans placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. Interest received on such loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Concentration of Credit Risk: Most of the Company’s primary business activity is with customers located within the Ohio counties of Columbiana, Franklin, Summit and contiguous counties. Therefore, the Company’s exposure to credit risk is significantly affected by changes in the economies within these counties. Although these counties are the Company’s primary market area for loans, the Company originates residential and commercial real estate loans throughout the United States.

Allowance for Loan Losses: The ALLL is a valuation allowance for probable incurred credit losses. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Management estimates the allowance balance required using past loan loss experience, the nature and volume of the portfolio, information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values, economic conditions, and other factors. Allocations of the allowance may be made for specific loans, but the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management’s judgment, should be charged off.

The allowance consists of specific and general components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired. A loan is impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that CFBank will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Loans within any loan class for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, are considered troubled debt restructurings (TDRs) and classified as impaired.

Factors considered by management in determining impairment for all loan classes include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed.

Loans of all classes within the commercial, multi-family residential and commercial real estate segments, regardless of size, and loans of all other classes with balances over $500 are individually evaluated for impairment when they are 90 days past due, or earlier than 90 days past due if information regarding the payment capacity of the borrower indicates that payment in full according to the loan terms is doubtful. If a loan is impaired, a portion of the allowance is allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral if repayment is expected solely from the collateral. Large groups of smaller balance loans, such as consumer and single-family residential real estate loans are collectively evaluated for impairment, and accordingly, they are not separately identified for impairment disclosures.

TDRs of all classes of loans are separately identified for impairment disclosures and are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception. If a TDR is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan is reported, net, at the fair value of the collateral. For TDRs that subsequently default, the amount of reserve is determined in accordance with the accounting policy for the ALLL.

Interest income on all classes of impaired loans that are on nonaccrual status is recognized in accordance with the accounting policy on nonaccrual loans. Cash receipts on all classes of impaired loans that are on nonaccrual status are generally applied to the principal balance outstanding. Interest income on all classes of impaired loans that are not on nonaccrual status is recognized on the accrual method. TDRs may be classified as accruing if the borrower has been current for a period of at least six months with respect to loan payments and management expects that the borrower will be able to continue to make payments in accordance with the terms of the restructured note.

The general component covers non-impaired loans of all classes and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for current factors. The historical loss experience is determined by loan class and is based on the actual loss history experienced by the Company over the most recent year. This actual loss experience is supplemented with other economic factors based on the risks present for each loan class. These economic factors include consideration of the following: levels of and trends in delinquencies and impaired loans; levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries; trends in volume and terms of loans; effects of any changes in risk selection and underwriting standards; other changes in lending policies, procedures, and practices; experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff; national and local economic trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations.

The general component is calculated based on CFBank’s loan balances and actual historical payment default rates. For loans with no actual payment default history, industry estimates of payment default rates are applied based on loan segment and the state where the collateral is located. Results are then scaled based on CFBank’s internal loan risk ratings, and industry loss rates are applied based on loan segment. Industry information is modified based on management’s judgment regarding items specific to CFBank, and primarily include the historical loss experience of each loan class, the level and trend of past due and nonaccrual loans in each loan class and the current economic outlook.

The following portfolio segments have been identified: commercial loans, single-family residential real estate loans; multi-family residential real estate loans; commercial real estate loans; construction loans; home equity lines of credit; and other consumer loans. A description of each segment of the loan portfolio, along with the risk characteristics of each segment is included below:

Commercial loans: Commercial loans include loans to businesses generally located within our primary market area. Those loans are generally secured by business equipment, inventory, accounts receivable and other business assets. In underwriting commercial loans, we consider the net operating income of the company, the debt service ratio and the financial strength, expertise and credit history of the business owners and/or guarantors. Because payments on commercial loans are dependent on successful operation of the business enterprise, repayment of such loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the economy. We seek to mitigate these risks through underwriting policies which require such loans to be qualified at origination on the basis of the enterprise’s financial performance and the financial strength of the business owners and/or guarantors.

Single-family residential real estate loans: Single-family residential real estate loans include permanent conventional mortgage loans secured by single-family residences located within and outside of our primary market area. Credit approval for single-family residential real estate loans requires demonstration of sufficient income to repay the principal and interest and the real estate taxes and insurance, stability of employment and an established credit record. Our policy is to originate single-family residential real estate loans for portfolio in amounts up to 85% of the lower of the appraised value or the purchase price of the property securing the loan, without requiring private mortgage insurance. Loans in excess of 85% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property securing the loan require private mortgage insurance. CFBank has not engaged in subprime lending, used option adjustable-rate mortgage products or made loans with initial teaser rates.

Multi-family residential real estate loans: Multi-family residential real estate loans include loans secured by apartment buildings, condominiums and multi-family residential houses generally located within our primary market area. Underwriting policies provide that multi-family residential real estate loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property. In underwriting multi-family residential real estate loans, we consider the appraised value and net operating income of the property, the debt service ratio and the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. We offer both fixed and adjustable rate loans. Fixed rates are generally limited to three to five years, at which time they convert to adjustable rate loans. Because payments on loans secured by multi-family residential properties are dependent on successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of multi-family residential real estate loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans generally pose credit risks not inherent in fixed-rate loans, primarily because as interest rates rise, the borrowers’ payments rise, increasing the potential for default. Additionally, adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans generally do not contain periodic and lifetime caps on interest rate changes. We seek to minimize the additional risk presented by adjustable rate multi-family residential real estate loans through underwriting criteria that require such loans to be qualified at origination with sufficient debt coverage ratios under increasing interest rate scenarios.

Commercial real estate loans: Commercial real estate loans include loans secured by owner occupied and non-owner occupied properties used for business purposes, such as manufacturing facilities, office buildings or retail facilities generally located within our primary market area. Underwriting policies provide that commercial real estate loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the lower of the appraised value or purchase price of the property. In underwriting commercial real estate loans, we consider the appraised value and net operating income of the property, the debt service ratio and the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. We offer both fixed and adjustable rate loans. Fixed rates are generally limited to three to five years, at which time they convert to adjustable rate loans. Because payments on loans secured by commercial real estate properties are dependent on successful operation or management of the properties, repayment of commercial real estate loans may be subject to a greater extent to adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy. Adjustable rate commercial real estate loans generally pose credit risks not inherent in fixed-rate loans, primarily because as interest rates rise, the borrowers’ payments rise, increasing the potential for default. Additionally, adjustable rate commercial real estate loans generally do not contain periodic and lifetime caps on interest rate changes. We seek to minimize the additional risk presented by adjustable rate commercial real estate loans through underwriting criteria that require such loans to be qualified at origination with sufficient debt coverage ratios under increasing interest rate scenarios.

Construction loans: Construction loans include loans to finance the construction of residential and commercial properties generally located within our primary market area. Construction loans are fixed or adjustable-rate loans which may convert to permanent loans with maturities of up to 30 years. Our policies provide that construction loans may be made in amounts up to 75% of the appraised value of the property, and an independent appraisal of the property is required. Loan proceeds are disbursed in increments as construction progresses and as inspections warrant, and regular inspections are required to monitor the progress of construction. In underwriting construction loans, we consider the property owner’s and/or guarantor’s financial strength, expertise and credit history. Construction financing is considered to involve a higher degree of credit risk than long-term financing on improved, owner occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan is dependent largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction or development compared to the estimated cost (including interest) of construction. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, we may be confronted with a project, when completed, having a value which is insufficient to assure full repayment. We attempt to reduce such risks on construction loans through inspections of construction progress on the property and by requiring personal guarantees and reviewing current personal financial statements and tax returns, as well as other projects of the developer.

Home equity lines of credit: Home equity lines of credit include both loans we originate for portfolio and purchased loans. We originate home equity lines of credit to customers generally within our primary market area. Home equity lines of credit are variable rate loans and the interest rate adjusts monthly at various margins above the prime rate of interest as disclosed in The Wall Street Journal. The margin is based on certain factors including the loan balance, value of collateral, election of auto-payment, and the borrower’s FICO^® score. The amount of the line is based on the borrower’s credit, income and equity in the home. When combined with the balance of the prior mortgage liens, these lines generally may not exceed 89.9% of the appraised value of the property at the time of the loan commitment. The lines are secured by a subordinate lien on the underlying real estate and are, therefore, vulnerable to declines in property values in the geographic areas where the properties are located. Credit approval for home equity lines of credit requires income sufficient to repay principal and interest due, stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral. Collectibility of home equity lines of credit are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances. In 2005 and 2006, we purchased home equity lines of credit collateralized by properties located throughout the United States. The purchased home equity lines of credit present higher risk than the home equity lines of credit we originate for our portfolio as they include properties in geographic areas that have experienced significant declines in housing values, such as California, Florida and Virginia. The collateral values associated with certain loans in these states have declined by up to approximately 55% since these loans were originated in 2005 and 2006, and as a result, some loan balances exceed collateral values. We continue to monitor collateral values and borrower FICO ^® scores on both purchased and portfolio loans and, when the situation warrants, have frozen the lines of credit.

Other consumer loans: Other consumer loans include closed-end home equity, home improvement, auto and credit card loans to consumers generally located within our primary market area. Credit approval for other consumer loans requires income sufficient to repay principal and interest due, stability of employment, an established credit record and sufficient collateral for secured loans. Consumer loans typically have shorter terms and lower balances with higher yields as compared to real estate mortgage loans, but generally carry higher risks of default. Consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and thus are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances.

CFBank’s charge-off policy for commercial loans, single-family residential real estate loans, multi-family residential real estate loans, commercial real estate loans, construction loans and home equity lines of credit requires management to record a specific reserve or charge-off as soon as it is apparent that the borrower is troubled and there is, or likely will be a collateral shortfall related to the estimated value of the collateral securing the loan. Other consumer loans are typically charged off no later than 90 days past due.

Servicing Rights: When mortgage loans are sold with servicing retained, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in gains on sales of loans. Fair value is based on market prices for comparable mortgage servicing contracts, when available, or alternatively, is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans.

Servicing assets are evaluated for impairment based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to carrying amount. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into groupings based on predominant risk characteristics, such as interest rate, loan type and investor type. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual grouping, to the extent that fair value is less than the carrying amount. If it is later determined that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Changes in valuation allowances are reported with loan servicing fees, net on the income statement. The fair values of servicing rights are subject to significant fluctuations as a result of changes in estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses.

Servicing fee income, which is reported on the income statement as loan servicing fees, net is recorded for fees earned for servicing loans. The fees are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal, or a fixed amount per loan, and are recorded as income when earned. The amortization of mortgage servicing rights is netted against loan servicing fee income. Loan servicing fees, net totaled $22, $21 and $36 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material.

Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, 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 the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Foreclosed Assets: Assets acquired through or instead of loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. If fair value declines subsequent to foreclosure, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Operating costs after acquisition are expensed.

Premises and Equipment: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Buildings and related components are depreciated using the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 3 to 40 years. Furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method with useful lives ranging from 2 to 25 years.

Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) stock: CFBank is a member of the FHLB system. Members are required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors, and may invest in additional amounts. FHLB stock is carried at cost, classified as a restricted security, and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income.

Bank Owned Life Insurance: CFBank purchased life insurance policies on certain directors and employees in 2002. 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.

Other Intangible Assets: Other intangible assets consist of identified intangibles from the purchase of the remaining two-thirds interest in Smith Ghent LLC in October 2009. The intangible asset was initially measured at fair value and is being amortized on a straight-line method over the estimated life of 4.5 years.

Loan Commitments and Related Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include off-balance-sheet credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and commercial letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded.

Derivatives: Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at fair value. The Company’s derivatives consist mainly of interest rate swap agreements, which are used as part of its asset liability management program to help manage interest rate risk. The Company does not use derivatives for trading purposes. The derivative transactions are considered instruments with no hedging designation, otherwise known as stand-alone derivatives. Changes in the fair value of the derivatives are reported currently in earnings, as other noninterest income.

Mortgage Banking Derivatives: Commitments to fund mortgage loans to be sold into the secondary market, otherwise known as interest rate locks, are accounted for as free standing derivatives. Fair values of these mortgage derivatives are based on anticipated gains on the underlying loans. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are included in net gains on sales of loans.

Stock-Based Compensation: Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to directors and employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used for restricted stock awards. 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 required service period for each separately vesting portion of the award.

Income Taxes: Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. 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 of $4,312 was recorded in 2009 to reduce the carrying amount of the Company’s net deferred tax asset to zero. See Note 14 – Income Taxes.

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 related to income tax matters as interest expense and penalties related to income tax matters as other noninterest expense.

Retirement Plans: Pension expense is the amount of annual contributions to the multi-employer contributory trusteed pension plan. Employee 401(k) and profit sharing plan expense is the amount of matching contributions. Supplemental retirement plan expense allocates the benefits over years of service.

Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share: Basic earnings (loss) per common share is net income (loss) available to common stockholders 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 (loss) per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options and the common stock warrant.

Comprehensive Income (Loss): Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, which are also recognized as a separate component of equity.

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. Management does not believe there now are such matters that will have a material effect on the financial statements. See Note 25 – Contingent Liabilities.

Restrictions on Cash: Cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) is required to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements. Cash on deposit with the FHLB includes $800 pledged as collateral for FHLB advances.

Equity: Treasury stock is carried at cost. The carrying value of preferred stock and the common stock warrant is based on allocation of issuance proceeds, net of issuance costs, in proportion to their relative fair values. Preferred stock is carried net of the discount established through the allocation of proceeds.

Dividend Restriction: Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by CFBank to the Holding Company or by the Holding Company to stockholders. On December 5, 2008, the Company issued 7,225 shares of Central Federal Corporation Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A (Preferred Stock) to the United States Department of the Treasury (U.S. Treasury) under the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) Capital Purchase Program. While the Preferred Stock remains outstanding, dividends on the Company’s common stock are limited to a quarterly cash dividend of a maximum of $.05 per share. In addition, while any dividends on the Preferred Stock remain unpaid, no dividends may be declared or paid on common stock. Pursuant to Holding Company Order, as defined in Note 2 Going Concern Consideration and Management’s Plans, the Holding Company may not declare, make, or pay any cash dividends (including dividends on the preferred stock, or its common stock) or other capital distributions or purchase, repurchase or redeem or commit to purchase, repurchase, or redeem any Holding Company equity stock without the prior written non-objection of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (FED).

Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 6 – Fair Value. 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 these estimates.

Operating Segments: While the chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the Company’s various products and services, operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis. Operating results are not reviewed by senior management to make resource allocation or performance decisions. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

Reclassifications: Some items in the prior year financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on prior year net loss or stockholders’ equity.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards:

In April 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2011-02 to Receivables (ASC 310), A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring. This ASU amended existing guidance for assisting a creditor in determining whether a restructuring is a TDR. The amendments clarify the guidance for a creditor’s evaluation of whether it has granted a concession and whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties. With regard to determining whether a concession has been granted, the ASU clarifies that creditors are precluded from using the effective interest method to determine whether a concession has been granted. In the absence of using the effective interest method, a creditor must now focus on other considerations such as the value of the underlying collateral, evaluation of other collateral or guarantees, the debtor’s ability to access other funds at market rates, interest rate increases and whether the restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2011 and should be applied retrospectively to the beginning of the annual period of adoption. For purposes of measuring impairment on newly identified TDRs, the amendments should be applied prospectively for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after June 15, 2011. As a result of adopting the amendments in ASU No. 2011-02, CFBank reassessed all restructurings that occurred on or after the beginning of the current fiscal year (January 1, 2011) for identification as TDRs. CFBank identified as TDRs certain receivables for which the allowance for credit losses had previously been measured under a general allowance for credit losses methodology. Upon identifying those receivables as TDRs, CFBank identified them as impaired under the guidance in Section 310-10-35. The amendments in ASU No. 2011-02 require prospective application of the impairment measurement guidance in Section 310-10-35 for those receivables newly identified as impaired. At the end of the first annual period of adoption (December 31, 2011), the recorded investment in receivables for which the allowance for credit losses was previously measured under a general allowance for credit losses methodology and are now impaired under Section 310-10-35 was $4,478, and the allowance for credit losses associated with those receivables, on the basis of a current valuation of loss, was $850.

In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-09 to Compensation – Retirement Benefits – Multiemployer Plans, (ASC 715), Disclosures about an Employer’s Participation in a Multiemployer Plan. The amendments in this ASU require that employers who participate in multiemployer pension plans provide additional quantitative and qualitative disclosures. The amended disclosures will provide users with more detailed information about an employer’s involvement in multiemployer pension plans, including: the plan names and identifying numbers, the level of an employer’s participation in the plans including contributions, the financial health of the multiemployer plans including the funded status, and the nature of the employer commitments to the plan. The amendments in this update are effective for annual periods for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The amendments should be applied retrospectively for all prior periods presented. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Effect of Newly Issued But Not Yet Effective Accounting Standards:

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-04 to Fair Value Measurement (ASC 820), Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements is U.S. GAAP and IFRSs. This ASU amends existing guidance to achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements between U.S. and international accounting principles. Overall, the guidance is consistent with existing U.S. accounting principles; however, there are some amendments that change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. The amendments in this guidance are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on the consolidated financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-05 to Comprehensive Income (ASC 220), Presentation of Comprehensive Income. This ASU amended existing guidance and eliminated the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholder’s equity. The amendment requires that comprehensive income be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate consecutive statements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011 and are to be applied retrospectively. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this amendment will change the Company’s presentation of the components of other comprehensive income, which is currently shown as part of the consolidated statement of changes in stockholder’s equity.

In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-12 to Comprehensive Income (ASC 220), Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in ASU 2011-05. This ASU amended the guidance in ASU 2011-05 related to the presentation of the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the components of net income and other comprehensive income. The amendments in this ASU are effective at the same time as the amendments in ASU 2011-05 so that entities will not be required to comply with the presentation requirements in ASU 2011-05 that this ASU is deferring. The amendments in this ASU are effective for public entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity.

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