Savings and Retirement Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Savings and Retirement Plans [Abstract]

SAVINGS AND RETIREMENT PLANS

SAVINGS AND RETIREMENT PLANS

We have a savings and retirement plan in accordance with the provisions of Section 401(k) of the Code. Generally, employees can elect, at their discretion, to contribute a portion of their compensation up to a maximum of $18,000 for 2016 and 2015, and $17,500 for 2014. Under the plan, we contribute 50% of each employee’s elective deferrals up to 5% of eligible earnings. In addition, we may make discretionary contributions within the limits of deductibility set forth by the Code. Our full-time employees are immediately eligible to become plan participants. Employees are eligible to receive matching contributions immediately on their participation; however, these matching payments will not vest until their third anniversary of employment. Our expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was approximately $602,000, $504,000 and $442,000, respectively.

A non-qualified deferred compensation plan for our officers and certain other employees was established in 1994 that allows the participants to defer a portion of their income. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we are liable to participants for approximately $10.5 million and $9.7 million, respectively, under this plan. Although this is an unfunded plan, we have purchased certain investments to match this obligation. Our obligation under this plan and the related investments are both included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.