Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business and Basis of Presentation TriCo Bancshares (the “Company” or “we”) is a California corporation organized to act as a bank holding company for Tri Counties Bank (the “Bank”). The Company and the Bank are headquartered in Chico, California. The Bank is a California-chartered bank that is engaged in the general commercial and retail banking business in 29 California counties. The Company has five capital subsidiary business trusts (collectively, the “Capital Trusts”) that issued trust preferred securities, including two organized by the Company and three acquired with the acquisition of North Valley Bancorp. The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting policies generally accepted in the United States of America and general practices in the banking industry. All adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements have been included and are of a normal and recurring nature. The financial statements include the accounts of the Company. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. For financial reporting purposes, the Company’s investments in the Capital Trusts of $1,731,000 are accounted for under the equity method and, accordingly, are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The subordinated debentures issued and guaranteed by the Company and held by the Capital Trusts are reflected as debt on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Segment and Significant Group Concentration of Credit Risk The Company grants agribusiness, commercial, consumer, and residential loans to customers located throughout Northern and Central California. The Company has a diversified loan portfolio within the business segments located in this geographical area. The Company currently classifies all its operation into one business segment that it denotes as community banking. Geographical Descriptions For the purpose of describing the geographical location of the Company’s operations, the Company has defined northern California as that area of California north of, and including, Stockton to the east and San Jose to the west; central California as that area of the state south of Stockton and San Jose, to and including, Bakersfield to the east and San Luis Obispo to the west; and southern California as that area of the state south of Bakersfield and San Luis Obispo. Business Combinations The Company accounts for acquisitions of businesses using the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition method, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. Management utilizes various valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analyses to determine these fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over amounts allocated to the acquired assets, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Cash and Cash Equivalents For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, and federal funds sold. Net cash flows are reported for loan and deposit transactions and other borrowings. Marketable Equity Securities Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): "Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities." ASU 2016-01 required equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The adoption of this guidance resulted in a $62,000 decrease to retaining earnings as of January 1, 2018 and a decrease to the deferred tax of $18,000. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company recognized $64,000 and $86,000 of unrealized losses, respectively, in the consolidated statements of income related to changes in the fair value of marketable equity securities. Debt Securities The Company classifies its debt securities into one of three categories: trading, available for sale ("AFS") or held to maturity ("HTM"). Trading securities are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling in the near term and changes in the value of these securities are recorded through earnings. Held to maturity securities are those securities which the Company has the ability and intent to hold until maturity. These securities are carried at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount, computed by the effective interest method over their contractual lives. All other securities not included in trading or held to maturity are classified as available for sale. AFS securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of the related tax effect, on available for sale securities are reported as a separate component of other accumulated comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity until realized. Discounts are amortized or accreted over the expected life of the related investment security as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. Premiums on callable debt securities are generally amortized to the earliest call date of the security with the exception of mortgage backed securities, where estimated prepayments, if any, are considered. Dividend and interest income are recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses are derived from the amortized cost of the security sold. The Company did not have any debt securities classified as trading during the three year period ended December 31, 2020. The Company has made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis of debt securities and report accrued interest separately in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. A debt security is placed on nonaccrual status at the time any principal or interest payments become more than 90 days delinquent or if full collection of interest or principal becomes uncertain. Accrued interest for a security placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. There was no accrued interest related to debt securities reversed against interest income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. The Company evaluates available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position to determine whether the decline in the fair value below the amortized cost basis (impairment) is due to credit-related factors or noncredit-related factors. Any impairment that is not credit related is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. Credit-related impairment is recognized as an allowance for credit losses on the balance sheet, limited to the amount by which the amortized cost basis exceeds the fair value, with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. Both the allowance for credit losses and the adjustment to net income may be reversed if conditions change. However, if the Company intends to sell an impaired available for sale debt security or more likely than not will be required to sell such a security before recovering its amortized cost basis, the entire impairment amount is recognized in earnings with a corresponding adjustment to the security's amortized cost basis. In evaluating available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions for impairment and the criteria regarding its intent or requirement to sell such securities, the Company considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, and the results of reviews of the issuers' financial condition, among other factors. Changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded as provision for (or reversal of) credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the ACL when management believes the uncollectability of an available for sale debt security is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. No security credit losses were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 or 2018. For HTM debt securities, the Company measures expected credit losses on held-to-maturity debt securities on a collective basis by major security type, then further disaggregated by sector and bond rating. Accrued interest receivable on held-to-maturity (HTM) debt securities totaled $735,000 at December 31, 2020 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current condition and reasonable and supportable forecasts based on current and expected changes in credit ratings and default rates. Based on the implied guarantees of the U. S. Government or its agencies related to certain of these HTM investment securities, and the absence of any historical or expected losses, substantially all qualify for a zero loss assumption. Management has separately evaluated its HTM investment securities from obligations of state and political subdivisions utilizing the historical loss data represented by similar securities over a period of time spanning nearly 50 years. As a result of this evaluation, management determined that the expected credit losses associated with these securities is not significant for financial reporting purposes and therefore, no allowance for credit losses has been recognized during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 or 2018. Restricted Equity Securities Restricted equity securities represent the Company’s investment in the stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (“FHLB”) and are carried at par value, which reasonably approximates its fair value. While technically these are considered equity securities, there is no market for the FHLB stock. Therefore, the shares are considered as restricted investment securities. Management periodically evaluates FHLB stock for other-than-temporary impairment. Management’s determination of whether these investments are impaired is based on its assessment of the ultimate recoverability of cost rather than by recognizing temporary declines in value. The determination of whether a decline affects the ultimate recoverability of cost is influenced by criteria such as (1) the significance of any decline in net assets of the FHLB as compared to the capital stock amount for the FHLB and the length of time this situation has persisted, (2) commitments by the FHLB to make payments required by law or regulation and the level of such payments in relation to the operating performance of the FHLB, (3) the impact of legislative and regulatory changes on institutions and, accordingly, the customer base of the FHLB, and (4) the liquidity position of the FHLB. As a member of the FHLB system, the Bank is required to maintain a minimum level of investment in FHLB stock based on specific percentages of its outstanding mortgages, total assets, or FHLB advances. The Bank may request redemption at par value of any stock in excess of the minimum required investment. Stock redemptions are at the discretion of the FHLB. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income when received. Loans Held for Sale Loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or fair value, as determined by aggregate outstanding commitments from investors of current investor yield requirements. Net unrealized losses are recognized through a valuation allowance by charges to non-interest income. Mortgage loans held for sale are generally sold with the mortgage servicing rights retained by the Company. Gains or losses on the sale of loans that are held for sale are recognized at the time of the sale and determined by the difference between net sale proceeds and the net book value of the loans less the estimated fair value of any retained mortgage servicing rights. 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 amount outstanding, net of deferred loan fees and costs. Loan origination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, and the net amount is amortized as an adjustment to the related loan’s yield over the actual life of the loan. Loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are designated as nonaccrual loans. Loans are placed in nonaccrual status when reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal, or a loan becomes contractually past due by 90 days or more with respect to interest or principal and is not well secured and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, all interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed. Income on such loans is then recognized only to the extent that cash is received and where the future collection of principal is considered probable. Interest accruals are resumed on such loans only when they are brought fully current with respect to interest and principal and when, in the judgment of Management, the loan is estimated to be fully collectible as to both principal and interest. Accrued interest receivable is not included in the calculation of the allowance for credit losses. Allowance for Credit Losses - Loans The allowance for credit losses (ACL) is a valuation account that is deducted from the loan's amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the recorded loan balance is confirmed as uncollectible. Expected recoveries do not exceed the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off. Regardless of the determination that a charge-off is appropriate for financial accounting purposes, the Company manages its loan portfolio by continually monitoring, where possible, a borrower's ability to pay through the collection of financial information, delinquency status, borrower discussion and the encouragement to repay in accordance with the original contract or modified terms, if appropriate. Management estimates the allowance balance using relevant information, from internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Historical credit loss experience provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, which captures loan balances as of a point in time to form a cohort, then tracks the respective losses generated by that cohort of loans over the remaining life. The Company identified and accumulated loan cohort historical loss data beginning with the fourth quarter of 2008 and through the current period. In situations where the Company's actual loss history was not statistically relevant, the loss history of peers, defined as financial institutions with assets greater than three billion and less than ten billion, were utilized to create a minimum loss rate. Adjustments to historical loss information are made for differences in relevant current loan-specific risk characteristics, such as historical timing of losses relative to the loan origination. In its loss forecasting framework, the Company incorporates forward-looking information through the use of macroeconomic scenarios applied over the forecasted life of the assets. These macroeconomic scenarios incorporate variables that have historically been key drivers of increases and decreases in credit losses. These variables include, but are not limited to changes in environmental conditions, such as California unemployment rates, household debt levels and U.S. gross domestic product. A loan is considered to be collateral dependent when repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. The ACL on collateral dependent loans is measured using the fair value of the underlying collateral, adjusted for costs to sell when applicable, less the amortized cost basis of the financial asset. If the value of underlying collateral is determined to be less than the recorded amount of the loan, a charge-off will be taken. Loans for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, is considered to be a troubled debt restructuring (TDR). The ACL on a TDR is measured using the same method as all other portfolio loans, except when the value of a concession cannot be measured using a method other than the discounted cash flow method. When the value of a concession is measured using the discounted cash flow method, the ACL is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at the original interest rate of the loan. The Company has identified the following portfolio segments to evaluate and measure the allowance for credit loss: Commercial real estate: •Commercial real estate - Non-owner occupied: These commercial properties typically consist of buildings which are leased to others for their use and rely on rents as the primary source of repayment. Property types are predominantly office, retail, or light industrial but the portfolio also has some special use properties. As such, the risk of loss associated with these properties is primarily driven by general economic changes or changes in regional economies and the impact of such on a tenant’s ability to pay. Ultimately this can affect occupancy, rental rates, or both. Additional risk of loss can come from new construction resulting in oversupply, the costs to hold or operate the property, or changes in interest rates. The terms on these loans at origination typically have maturities from five to ten years with amortization periods from fifteen to thirty years. •Commercial real estate - Owner occupied: These credits are primarily susceptible to changes in the financial condition of the business operated by the property owner. This may be driven by changes in, among other things, industry challenges, factors unique to the operating geography of the borrower, change in the individual fortunes of the business owner, general economic conditions and changes in business cycles. When default is driven by issues related specifically to the business owner, collateral values tend to provide better repayment support and may result in little or no loss. Alternatively, when default is driven more by general economic conditions, the underlying collateral may have devalued more and thus result in larger losses in the event of default. The terms on these loans at origination typically have maturities from five to ten years with amortization periods from fifteen to thirty years. •Multifamily: These commercial properties are generally comprised of more than four rentable units, such as apartment buildings, with each unit intended to be occupied as the primary residence for one or more persons. Multifamily properties are also subject to changes in general or regional economic conditions, such as unemployment, ultimately resulting in increased vacancy rates or reduced rents or both. In addition, new construction can create an oversupply condition and market competition resulting in increased vacancy, reduced market rents, or both. Due to the nature of their use and the greater likelihood of tenant turnover, the management of these properties is more intensive and therefore is more critical to the preclusion of loss. •Farmland: While the Company has few loans that were originated for the purpose of the acquisition of these commercial properties, loans secured by farmland represent unique risks that are associated with the operation of an agricultural businesses. The valuation of farmland can vary greatly over time based on the property's access to resources including but not limited to water, crop prices, foreign exchange rates, government regulation or restrictions, and the nature of ongoing capital investment needed to maintain the quality of the property. Loans secured by farmland typically represent less risk to the Company than other agriculture loans as the real estate typically provides greater support in the event of default or need for longer term repayment. Consumer loans: •SFR 1-4 1st DT Liens: The most significant drivers of potential loss within the Company's residential real estate portfolio relate general, regional, or individual changes in economic conditions and their effect on employment and borrowers cash flow. Risk in this portfolio is best measured by changes in borrower credit score and loan-to-value. Loss estimates are based on the general movement in credit score, economic outlook and its effects on employment and the value of homes and the Bank’s historical loss experience adjusted to reflect the economic outlook and the unemployment rate. •SFR HELOCs and Junior Liens: Similar to residential real estate term loans, HELOCs and junior liens performance is also primarily driven by borrower cash flows based on employment status. However, HELOCs carry additional risks associated with the fact that most of these loans are secured by a deed of trust in a position that is junior to the primary lien holder. Furthermore, the risk that as the borrower's financial strength deteriorates, the outstanding balance on these credit lines may increase as they may only be canceled by the Company if certain limited criteria are met. In addition to the allowance for credit losses maintained as a percent of the outstanding loan balance, the Company maintains additional reserves for the unfunded portion of the HELOC. •Other: The majority of these consumer loans are secured by automobiles, with the remainder primarily unsecured revolving debt (credit cards). These loans are susceptible to three primary risks; non-payment due to income loss, over-extension of credit and, when the borrower is unable to pay, shortfall in collateral value, if any. Typically, non-payment is due to loss of job and will follow general economic trends in the marketplace driven primarily by rises in the unemployment rate. Loss of collateral value can be due to market demand shifts, damage to collateral itself or a combination of those factors. Credit card loans are unsecured and while collection efforts are pursued in the event of default, there is typically limited opportunity for recovery. Loss estimates are based on the general movement in credit score, economic outlook and its effects on employment and the Bank’s historical loss experience adjusted to reflect the economic outlook and the unemployment rate. Commercial and industrial: •Repayment of these loans is primarily based on the cash flow of the borrower, and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. A borrower's cash flow may be unpredictable, and collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most often, collateral includes accounts receivable, inventory, or equipment. Collateral securing these loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise, may be illiquid and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. Actual and forecast changes in gross domestic product are believed to be corollary to losses associated with these credits. Construction: •While secured by real estate, construction loans represent a greater level of risk than term real estate loans due to the nature of the additional risks associated with the not only the completion of construction within an estimated time period and budget, but also the need to either sell the building or reach a level of stabilized occupancy sufficient to generate the cash flows necessary to support debt service and operating costs. The Company seeks to mitigate the additional risks associated with construction lending by requiring borrowers to comply with lower loan to value ratios and additional covenants as well as strong tertiary support of guarantors. The loss forecasting model applies the historical rate of loss for similar loans over the expected life of the asset as adjusted for macroeconomic factors. Agriculture production: •Repayment of agricultural loans is dependent upon successful operation of the agricultural business, which is greatly impacted by factors outside the control of the borrower. These factors include adverse weather conditions, including access to water, that may impact crop yields, loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agriculture products, changes in foreign exchange, and the impact of government regulations. In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the business. Consequently, agricultural production loans may involve a greater degree of risk than other types of loans. Leases: •The loss forecasting model applies the historical rate of loss for similar loans over the expected life of the asset. Leases typically represent an elevated level of credit risk as compared to loans secured by real estate as the collateral for leases is often subject to a more rapid rate of depreciation or depletion. The ultimate severity of loss is impacted by the type of collateral securing the exposure, the size of the exposure, the borrower’s industry sector, any guarantors and the geographic market. Assumptions of expected loss are conditioned to the economic outlook and the other variables discussed above. Unfunded commitments: •The estimated credit losses associated with these unfunded lending commitments is calculated using the same models and methodologies noted above and incorporate utilization assumptions at time of default. The reserve for unfunded commitments is maintained on the consolidated balance sheet in other liabilities. Real Estate Owned Real estate owned (REO) includes assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure. REO is held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of acquisition, establishing a new cost basis. Physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the property to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. Any write-downs based on the asset’s fair value less costs to sell at the date of acquisition are charged to the allowance for loan and lease losses. Any recoveries based on the asset’s fair value less estimated costs to sell in excess of the recorded value of the loan at the date of acquisition are recorded to the allowance for loan and lease losses. 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. Revenue and expenses from operations and changes in the valuation allowance are included in other non-interest expense, along with the gain or loss on sale of REO. Premises and Equipment Land is carried at cost. Land improvements, buildings and equipment, including those acquired under capital lease, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses are computed using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the related assets or lease terms. Asset lives range from 3-10 years for furniture and equipment and 15-40 years for land improvements and buildings. Company Owned Life Insurance The Company has purchased life insurance policies on certain key executives. Company 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. As a result of current tax law and the nature of these policies, the Bank records any increase in cash value of these policies as nontaxable non-interest income. If the Bank decided to surrender any of the policies prior to the death of the insured, such surrender may result in a tax expense related to the life-to-date cumulative increase in cash value of the policy. If the Bank retains such policies until the death of the insured, the Bank would receive nontaxable proceeds from the insurance company equal to the death benefit of the policies. The Bank has entered into Joint Beneficiary Agreements (JBAs) with certain of the insured that provide some level of sharing of the death benefit, less the cash surrender value, among the Bank and the beneficiaries of the insured upon the receipt of death benefits. Goodwill, Other Intangible and Long-Lived Assets Goodwill represents the excess of costs over fair value of net assets of businesses acquired from a business combination. The Company has an identifiable intangible asset consisting of core deposit intangibles (“CDI”). CDI are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed periodically for impairment. Goodwill and other intangible assets acquired in a business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but instead tested for impairment at least annually. Other intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed periodically for impairment. As of September 30 of each year, goodwill is tested for impairment, and is tested for impairment more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds the asset’s fair value. Long-lived assets, such as premises and equipment, and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented in the balance sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. The assets and liabilities of a disposed group classified as held for sale would be presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the consolidated balance sheet. Mortgage Servicing Rights Mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) represent the Company’s right to a future stream of cash flows based upon the contractual servicing fee associated with servicing mortgage loans. Our MSR arise from residential and commercial mortgage loans that we originate and sell, but retain the right to service the loans. The net gain from the retention of the servicing right is included in gain on sale of loans in non-interest income when the loan is sold. 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. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, the custodial earnings rate, an inflation rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Servicing fees, when earned, and changes in fair value of the MSR, are recorded in non-interest income. The Company accounts for MSR at fair value. The determination of fair value of our MSR requires management judgment because they are not actively traded. The determination of fair value for MSR requires valuation processes which combine the use of discounted cash flow models and extensive analysis of current market data to arrive at an estimate of fair value. The cash flow and prepayment assumptions used in our discounted cash flow model are based on empirical data drawn from the historical performance of our MSR, which we believe are consistent with assumptions used by market participants valuing similar MSR, and from data obtained on the performance of similar MSR. The key assumptions used in the valuation of MSR include mortgage prepayment speeds and the discount rate. These variables can, and generally will, change from quarter to quarter as market conditions and projected interest rates change. The key risks inherent with MSR are prepayment speed and changes in interest rates. Leases The Company records a right-of-use asset (“ROUA”) on the consolidated balance sheets for those leases that convey rights to control use of identified assets for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The Company is also required to record a lease liability on the consolidated balance sheets for the present value of future payment commitments. Substantially all of the Company’s leases are comprised of operating leases in which the Company is lessee of real estate property for branches, ATM locations, and general administration and operations. The Company has elected not to include short-term leases (i.e. leases with initial terms of twelve months or less) within the ROUA and lease liability. Known or determinable adjustments to the required minimum future lease payments are included in the calculation of the Company’s ROUA and lease liability. Adjustments to the required minimum future lease payments that are variable and will not be determinable until a future period, such as changes in the consumer price index, are included as variable lease costs. Additionally, expected variable payments for common area maintenance, taxes and insurance are not unknown and not determinable at lease commencement and therefore, are not included in the determination of the Company’s ROUA or lease liability. The value of the ROUA and lease liability is impacted by the amount of the periodic payment required, length of the lease term, and the discount rate used to calculate the present value of the minimum lease payments. The Company’s lease agreements often include one or more options to renew at the Company’s discretion. If at lease inception, the Company considers the exercising of a renewal option to be reasonably certain, the Company will include the extended term in the calculation of the ROU asset and lease liability. The Company uses the rate implicit in the lease whenever this rate is readily determinable. As this rate is rarely determinable, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate at lease inception, on a collateralized basis, over a similar term. Off-Balance Sheet Credit Related Financial Instruments In the ordinary course of business, the Company has entered into commitments to extend credit, including commitments under credit card arrangements, commercial letters of credit, and standby letters of credit. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded. Low Income Housing Tax Credits The Company accounts for low income housing tax credits and the related qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method. Under the proportional amortization method, the Company amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). Upon entering into a qualified affordable housing project, the Company records, in other liabilities, the entire amount that it has agreed to invest in the project, and an equal amount, in other assets, representing its investment in the project. As the Company disburses cash to satisfy its investment obligation, other liabilities are reduced. Over time, as the tax credits and other tax benefits of the project are realized by the Company, the investment recorded in other assets is reduced using the proportional amortization method. Income Taxes The Company’s accounting for income taxes is based on an asset and liability approach. The Company recognizes the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year, and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences that have been recognized in its financial statements or tax returns. The measurement of tax assets and liabilities is based on the provisions of enacted tax laws. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income and recoverable taxes paid in prior years. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets will 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. Interest and/or penalties related to income taxes are reported as a component of non-interest income. Share-Based Compensation Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to employees and directors, based on the fair value of the awards at the date of grant. The estimate of the fair value of stock options and performance based restricted awards are based on a Black-Scholes or Monte Carlo model, respectively, while the market price of the common stock at the date of grant is used for time based restricted awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting or measurement period. The Company’s accounting policy is to recognize forfeitures as they occur. Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share represents income available to common shareholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. There are no unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to nonforfeitable dividends (participating securities). Diluted earnings per share reflects additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustments to income that would result from assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate solely from outstanding stock options and restricted stock units, and are determined using the treasury stock method. Revenue Recognition The Company records revenue from contracts with customers in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“Topic 606”). Under Topic 606, the Company must identify the contract with a customer, identify the performance obligations in the contract, determine the transaction price, allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and recognize revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies a performance obligation. Most of our revenue-generating transactions are not subject to Topic 606, including revenue generated from financial instruments, such as our loans and investment securities. In addition, certain non-interest income streams such as fees associated with mortgage servicing rights, financial guarantees, derivatives, and certain credit card fees are also not in scope of the new guidance. The Company’s non-interest revenue streams are largely based on transactional activity, or standard month-end revenue accruals such as asset management fees based on month-end market values. Consideration is often received immediately or shortly after the Company satisfies its performance obligation and revenue is recognized. The Company does not typically enter into long-term revenue contracts with customers, and therefore, does not experience significant contract balances. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company did not have any significant contract balances. The Company has evaluated the nature of its revenue streams and determined that further disaggregation of revenue into more granular categories beyond what is presented in Note 18 was not necessary. The following are descriptions of revenues within the scope of ASC 606. Deposit service charges The Company earns fees from its deposit customers for account maintenance, transaction-based and overdraft services. Account maintenance fees consist primarily of account fees and analyzed account fees charged on deposit accounts on a monthly basis. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are recognized on a monthly basis as the service period is completed. Transaction-based fees on deposit accounts are charged to deposit customers for specific services provided to the customer, such as non-sufficient funds fees, overdraft fees, and wire fees. The performance obligation is completed as the transaction occurs and the fees are recognized at the time each specific service is provided to the customer. Debit and ATM interchange fees Debit and ATM interchange income represent fees earned when a debit card issued by the Company is used. The Company earns interchange fees from debit cardholder transactions through the Visa payment network. Interchange fees from cardholder transactions represent a percentage of the underlying transaction value and are recognized daily, concurrently with the transaction processing services provided to the cardholder. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are earned when the cost of the transaction is charged to the cardholders’ debit card. Certain expenses directly associated with the credit and debit card are recorded on a net basis with the interchange income. Commission on sale of non-deposit investment products Commissions on sale of non-deposit investment products consist of fees earned from advisory asset management, trade execution and administrative fees from investments. Advisory asset management fees are variable, since they are based on the underlying portfolio value, which is subject to market conditions and asset flows. Advisory asset management fees are recognized quarterly and are based on the portfolio values at the end of each quarter. Brokerage accounts are charged commissions at the time of a transaction and the commission schedule is based upon the type of security and quantity. In addition, revenues are earned from selling insurance and annuity policies. The amount of revenue earned is determined by the value and type of each instrument sold and is recognized at the time the policy or contract is written. Merchant fee income Merchant fee income represents fees earned by the Company for card payment services provided to its merchant customers. The Company outsources these services to a third party to provide card payment services to these merchants. The third party provider passes the payments made by the merchants through to the Company. The Company, in turn, pays the third party provider for the services it provides to the merchants. These payments to the third party provider are recorded as expenses as a net reduction against fee income. In addition, a portion of the payment received represents interchange fees which are passed through to the card issuing bank. Income is primarily earned based on the dollar volume and number of transactions processed. The performance obligation is satisfied and the related fee is earned when each payment is accepted by the processing network. Gain/loss on other real estate owned, net The Company records a gain or loss from the sale of other real estate owned when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of an executed deed of trust. When the Company finances the sale of other real estate owned to the buyer, the Company assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform their obligations under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the other real estate owned asset is derecognized and the gain or loss on sale is recorded upon the transfer of control of the property to the buyer. In determining the gain or loss on sale, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain or loss on sale if a significant financing component is present. Gains or losses from transactions associated with other real estate owned are recorded as a component of non-interest expense. Reclassifications Certain amounts reported in previous consolidated financial statements have been reclassified and recalculated to conform to the presentation in this report. These reclassifications did not affect previously reported amounts of net income, total assets or total shareholders’ equity.

TriCo Bancshares (the “Company” or “we”) is a California corporation organized to act as a bank holding company for Tri Counties Bank (the “Bank”). The Company and the Bank are headquartered in Chico, California. The Bank is a California-chartered bank that is engaged in the general commercial and retail banking business in 29 California counties. The Company has five capital subsidiary business trusts (collectively, the “Capital Trusts”) that issued trust preferred securities, including two organized by the Company and three acquired with the acquisition of North Valley Bancorp.

The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting policies generally accepted in the United States of America and general practices in the banking industry. All adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements have been included and are of a normal and recurring nature. The financial statements include the accounts of the Company. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. For financial reporting purposes, the Company’s investments in the Capital Trusts of $1,731,000 are accounted for under the equity method and, accordingly, are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The subordinated debentures issued and guaranteed by the Company and held by the Capital Trusts are reflected as debt on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires Management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

For the purpose of describing the geographical location of the Company’s operations, the Company has defined northern California as that area of California north of, and including, Stockton to the east and San Jose to the west; central California as that area of the state south of Stockton and San Jose, to and including, Bakersfield to the east and San Luis Obispo to the west; and southern California as that area of the state south of Bakersfield and San Luis Obispo.

The Company accounts for acquisitions of businesses using the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition method, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. Management utilizes various valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analyses to determine these fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over amounts allocated to the acquired assets, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill.

Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Overall (Subtopic 825-10): "Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities." ASU 2016-01 required equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The adoption of this guidance resulted in a $62,000 decrease to retaining earnings as of January 1, 2018 and a decrease to the deferred tax of $18,000. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company recognized $64,000 and $86,000 of unrealized losses, respectively, in the consolidated statements of income related to changes in the fair value of marketable equity securities.

The Company classifies its debt securities into one of three categories: trading, available for sale ("AFS") or held to maturity ("HTM"). Trading securities are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling in the near term and changes in the value of these securities are recorded through earnings. Held to maturity securities are those securities which the Company has the ability and intent to hold until maturity. These securities are carried at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount, computed by the effective interest method over their contractual lives. All other securities not included in trading or held to maturity are classified as available for sale. AFS securities are recorded at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses, net of the related tax effect, on available for sale securities are reported as a separate component of other accumulated comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity until realized. Discounts are amortized or accreted over the expected life of the related investment security as an adjustment to yield using the effective interest method. Premiums on callable debt securities are generally amortized to the earliest call date of the security with the exception of mortgage backed securities, where estimated prepayments, if any, are considered. Dividend and interest income are recognized when earned. Realized gains and losses are derived from the amortized cost of the security sold. The Company did not have any debt securities classified as trading during the three year period ended December 31, 2020.

The Company has made a policy election to exclude accrued interest from the amortized cost basis of debt securities and report accrued interest separately in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. A debt security is placed on nonaccrual status at the time any principal or interest payments become more than 90 days delinquent or if full collection of interest or principal becomes uncertain. Accrued interest for a security placed on nonaccrual is reversed against interest income. There was no accrued interest related to debt securities reversed against interest income for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.

The Company evaluates available for sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position to determine whether the decline in the fair value below the amortized cost basis (impairment) is due to credit-related factors or noncredit-related factors. Any impairment that is not credit related is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. Credit-related impairment is recognized as an allowance for credit losses on the balance sheet, limited to the amount by which the amortized cost basis exceeds the fair value, with a corresponding adjustment to earnings. Both the allowance for credit losses and the adjustment to net income may be reversed if conditions change. However, if the Company intends to sell an impaired available for sale debt security or more likely than not will be required to sell such a security before recovering its amortized cost basis, the entire impairment amount is recognized in earnings with a corresponding adjustment to the security's amortized cost basis. In evaluating available for sale debt securities in unrealized loss positions for impairment and the criteria regarding its intent or requirement to sell such securities, the Company considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, whether the securities are issued by the federal government or its agencies, whether downgrades by bond rating agencies have occurred, and the results of reviews of the issuers' financial condition, among other factors. Changes in the allowance for credit losses are recorded as provision for (or reversal of) credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the ACL when management believes the uncollectability of an available for sale debt security is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. No security credit losses were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 or 2018.

For HTM debt securities, the Company measures expected credit losses on held-to-maturity debt securities on a collective basis by major security type, then further disaggregated by sector and bond rating. Accrued interest receivable on held-to-maturity (HTM) debt securities totaled $735,000 at December 31, 2020 and is excluded from the estimate of credit losses. The estimate of expected credit losses considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current condition and reasonable and supportable forecasts based on current and expected changes in credit ratings and default rates. Based on the implied guarantees of the U. S. Government or its agencies related to certain of these HTM investment securities, and the absence of any historical or expected losses, substantially all qualify for a zero loss assumption. Management has separately evaluated its HTM investment securities from obligations of state and political subdivisions utilizing the historical loss data represented by similar securities over a period of time spanning nearly 50 years. As a result of this evaluation, management determined that the expected credit losses associated with these securities is not significant for financial reporting purposes and therefore, no allowance for credit losses has been recognized during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 or 2018.

Restricted equity securities represent the Company’s investment in the stock of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (“FHLB”) and are carried at par value, which reasonably approximates its fair value. While technically these are considered equity securities, there is no market for the FHLB stock. Therefore, the shares are considered as restricted investment securities. Management periodically evaluates FHLB stock for other-than-temporary impairment. Management’s determination of whether these investments are impaired is based on its assessment of the ultimate recoverability of cost rather than by recognizing temporary declines in value. The determination of whether a decline affects the ultimate recoverability of cost is influenced by criteria such as (1) the significance of any decline in net assets of the FHLB as compared to the capital stock amount for the FHLB and the length of time this situation has persisted, (2) commitments by the FHLB to make payments required by law or regulation and the level of such payments in relation to the operating performance of the FHLB, (3) the impact of legislative and regulatory changes on institutions and, accordingly, the customer base of the FHLB, and (4) the liquidity position of the FHLB.

As a member of the FHLB system, the Bank is required to maintain a minimum level of investment in FHLB stock based on specific percentages of its outstanding mortgages, total assets, or FHLB advances. The Bank may request redemption at par value of any stock in excess of the minimum required investment. Stock redemptions are at the discretion of the FHLB. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income when received.

Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal amount outstanding, net of deferred loan fees and costs. Loan origination and commitment fees and certain direct loan origination costs are deferred, and the net amount is amortized as an adjustment to the related loan’s yield over the actual life of the loan. Loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are designated as nonaccrual loans.

Loans are placed in nonaccrual status when reasonable doubt exists as to the full, timely collection of interest or principal, or a loan becomes contractually past due by 90 days or more with respect to interest or principal and is not well secured and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, all interest previously accrued but not collected is reversed. Income on such loans is then recognized only to the extent that cash is received and where the future collection of principal is considered probable. Interest accruals are resumed on such loans only when they are brought fully current with respect to interest and principal and when, in the judgment of Management, the loan is estimated to be fully collectible as to both principal and interest. Accrued interest receivable is not included in the calculation of the allowance for credit losses.

The allowance for credit losses (ACL) is a valuation account that is deducted from the loan's amortized cost basis to present the net amount expected to be collected on the loans. Loans are charged off against the allowance when management believes the recorded loan balance is confirmed as uncollectible. Expected recoveries do not exceed the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off. Regardless of the determination that a charge-off is appropriate for financial accounting purposes, the Company manages its loan portfolio by continually monitoring, where possible, a borrower's ability to pay through the collection of financial information, delinquency status, borrower discussion and the encouragement to repay in accordance with the original contract or modified terms, if appropriate.

Management estimates the allowance balance using relevant information, from internal and external sources, relating to past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The allowance for credit losses is measured on a collective (pool) basis when similar risk characteristics exist. Historical credit loss experience provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses, which captures loan balances as of a point in time to form a cohort, then tracks the respective losses generated by that cohort of loans over the remaining life. The Company identified and accumulated loan cohort historical loss data beginning with the fourth quarter of 2008 and through the current period. In situations where the Company's actual loss history was not statistically relevant, the loss history of peers, defined as financial institutions with assets greater than three billion and less than ten billion, were utilized to create a minimum loss rate. Adjustments to historical loss information are made for differences in relevant current loan-specific risk characteristics, such as historical timing of losses relative to the loan origination. In its loss forecasting framework, the Company incorporates forward-looking information through the use of macroeconomic scenarios applied over the forecasted life of the assets. These macroeconomic scenarios incorporate variables that have historically been key drivers of increases and decreases in credit losses. These variables include, but are not limited to changes in environmental conditions, such as California unemployment rates, household debt levels and U.S. gross domestic product.

A loan is considered to be collateral dependent when repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral. The ACL on collateral dependent loans is measured using the fair value of the underlying collateral, adjusted for costs to sell when applicable, less the amortized cost basis of the financial asset. If the value of underlying collateral is determined to be less than the recorded amount of the loan, a charge-off will be taken. Loans for which the terms have been modified resulting in a concession, and for which the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, is considered to be a troubled debt restructuring (TDR). The ACL on a TDR is measured using the same method as all other portfolio loans, except when the value of a concession cannot be measured using a method other than the discounted cash flow method. When the value of a concession is measured using the discounted cash flow method, the ACL is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at the original interest rate of the loan.

•Commercial real estate - Non-owner occupied: These commercial properties typically consist of buildings which are leased to others for their use and rely on rents as the primary source of repayment. Property types are predominantly office, retail, or light industrial but the portfolio also has some special use properties. As such, the risk of loss associated with these properties is primarily driven by general economic changes or changes in regional economies and the impact of such on a tenant’s ability to pay. Ultimately this can affect occupancy, rental rates, or both. Additional risk of loss can come from new construction resulting in oversupply, the costs to hold or operate the property, or changes in interest rates. The terms on these loans at origination typically have maturities from five to ten years with amortization periods from fifteen to thirty years.

•Commercial real estate - Owner occupied: These credits are primarily susceptible to changes in the financial condition of the business operated by the property owner. This may be driven by changes in, among other things, industry challenges, factors unique to the operating geography of the borrower, change in the individual fortunes of the business owner, general economic conditions and changes in business cycles. When default is driven by issues related specifically to the business owner, collateral values tend to provide better repayment support and may result in little or no loss. Alternatively, when default is driven more by general economic conditions, the underlying collateral may have devalued more and thus result in larger losses in the event of default. The terms on these loans at origination typically have maturities from five to ten years with amortization periods from fifteen to thirty years.

•Multifamily: These commercial properties are generally comprised of more than four rentable units, such as apartment buildings, with each unit intended to be occupied as the primary residence for one or more persons. Multifamily properties are also subject to changes in general or regional economic conditions, such as unemployment, ultimately resulting in increased vacancy rates or reduced rents or both. In addition, new construction can create an oversupply condition and market competition resulting in increased vacancy, reduced market rents, or both. Due to the nature of their use and the greater likelihood of tenant turnover, the management of these properties is more intensive and therefore is more critical to the preclusion of loss.

•Farmland: While the Company has few loans that were originated for the purpose of the acquisition of these commercial properties, loans secured by farmland represent unique risks that are associated with the operation of an agricultural businesses. The valuation of farmland can vary greatly over time based on the property's access to resources including but not limited to water, crop prices, foreign exchange rates, government regulation or restrictions, and the nature of ongoing capital investment needed to maintain the quality of the property. Loans secured by farmland typically represent less risk to the Company than other agriculture loans as the real estate typically provides greater support in the event of default or need for longer term repayment.

•SFR 1-4 1st DT Liens: The most significant drivers of potential loss within the Company's residential real estate portfolio relate general, regional, or individual changes in economic conditions and their effect on employment and borrowers cash flow. Risk in this portfolio is best measured by changes in borrower credit score and loan-to-value. Loss estimates are based on the general movement in credit score, economic outlook and its effects on employment and the value of homes and the Bank’s historical loss experience adjusted to reflect the economic outlook and the unemployment rate.

•SFR HELOCs and Junior Liens: Similar to residential real estate term loans, HELOCs and junior liens performance is also primarily driven by borrower cash flows based on employment status. However, HELOCs carry additional risks associated with the fact that most of these loans are secured by a deed of trust in a position that is junior to the primary lien holder. Furthermore, the risk that as the borrower's financial strength deteriorates, the outstanding balance on these credit lines may increase as they may only be canceled by the Company if certain limited criteria are met. In addition to the allowance for credit losses maintained as a percent of the outstanding loan balance, the Company maintains additional reserves for the unfunded portion of the HELOC.

•Other: The majority of these consumer loans are secured by automobiles, with the remainder primarily unsecured revolving debt (credit cards). These loans are susceptible to three primary risks; non-payment due to income loss, over-extension of credit and, when the borrower is unable to pay, shortfall in collateral value, if any. Typically, non-payment is due to loss of job and will follow general economic trends in the marketplace driven primarily by rises in the unemployment rate. Loss of collateral value can be due to market demand shifts, damage to collateral itself or a combination of those factors. Credit card loans are unsecured and while collection efforts are pursued in the event of default, there is typically limited opportunity for recovery. Loss estimates are based on the general movement in credit score, economic outlook and its effects on employment and the Bank’s historical loss experience adjusted to reflect the economic outlook and the unemployment rate.

•Repayment of these loans is primarily based on the cash flow of the borrower, and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. A borrower's cash flow may be unpredictable, and collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most often, collateral includes accounts receivable, inventory, or equipment. Collateral securing these loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise, may be illiquid and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. Actual and forecast changes in gross domestic product are believed to be corollary to losses associated with these credits.

•While secured by real estate, construction loans represent a greater level of risk than term real estate loans due to the nature of the additional risks associated with the not only the completion of construction within an estimated time period and budget, but also the need to either sell the building or reach a level of stabilized occupancy sufficient to generate the cash flows necessary to support debt service and operating costs. The Company seeks to mitigate the additional risks associated with construction lending by requiring borrowers to comply with lower loan to value ratios and additional covenants as well as strong tertiary support of guarantors. The loss forecasting model applies the historical rate of loss for similar loans over the expected life of the asset as adjusted for macroeconomic factors.

•Repayment of agricultural loans is dependent upon successful operation of the agricultural business, which is greatly impacted by factors outside the control of the borrower. These factors include adverse weather conditions, including access to water, that may impact crop yields, loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agriculture products, changes in foreign exchange, and the impact of government regulations. In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the business. Consequently, agricultural production loans may involve a greater degree of risk than other types of loans.

•The loss forecasting model applies the historical rate of loss for similar loans over the expected life of the asset. Leases typically represent an elevated level of credit risk as compared to loans secured by real estate as the collateral for leases is often subject to a more rapid rate of depreciation or depletion. The ultimate severity of loss is impacted by the type of collateral securing the exposure, the size of the exposure, the borrower’s industry sector, any guarantors and the geographic market. Assumptions of expected loss are conditioned to the economic outlook and the other variables discussed above.

Real estate owned (REO) includes assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure. REO is held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of acquisition, establishing a new cost basis. Physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the property to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. Any write-downs based on the asset’s fair value less costs to sell at the date of acquisition are charged to the allowance for loan and lease losses. Any recoveries based on the asset’s fair value less estimated costs to sell in excess of the recorded value of the loan at the date of acquisition are recorded to the allowance for loan and lease losses. 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. Revenue and expenses from operations and changes in the valuation allowance are included in other non-interest expense, along with the gain or loss on sale of REO.

Land is carried at cost. Land improvements, buildings and equipment, including those acquired under capital lease, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expenses are computed using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the related assets or lease terms. Asset lives range from 3-10 years for furniture and equipment and 15-40 years for land improvements and buildings.

As a result of current tax law and the nature of these policies, the Bank records any increase in cash value of these policies as nontaxable non-interest income. If the Bank decided to surrender any of the policies prior to the death of the insured, such surrender may result in a tax expense related to the life-to-date cumulative increase in cash value of the policy. If the Bank retains such policies until the death of the insured, the Bank would receive nontaxable proceeds from the insurance company equal to the death benefit of the policies. The Bank has entered into Joint Beneficiary Agreements (JBAs) with certain of the insured that provide some level of sharing of the death benefit, less the cash surrender value, among the Bank and the beneficiaries of the insured upon the receipt of death benefits.

Goodwill represents the excess of costs over fair value of net assets of businesses acquired from a business combination. The Company has an identifiable intangible asset consisting of core deposit intangibles (“CDI”). CDI are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed periodically for impairment. Goodwill and other intangible assets acquired in a business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but instead tested for impairment at least annually. Other intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed periodically for impairment.

Long-lived assets, such as premises and equipment, and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented in the balance sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. The assets and liabilities of a disposed group classified as held for sale would be presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the consolidated balance sheet.

Mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) represent the Company’s right to a future stream of cash flows based upon the contractual servicing fee associated with servicing mortgage loans. Our MSR arise from residential and commercial mortgage loans that we originate and sell, but retain the right to service the loans. The net gain from the retention of the servicing right is included in gain on sale of loans in non-interest income when the loan is sold. 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. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, the custodial earnings rate, an inflation rate, ancillary income, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Servicing fees, when earned, and changes in fair value of the MSR, are recorded in non-interest income.

The Company accounts for MSR at fair value. The determination of fair value of our MSR requires management judgment because they are not actively traded. The determination of fair value for MSR requires valuation processes which combine the use of discounted cash flow models and extensive analysis of current market data to arrive at an estimate of fair value. The cash flow and prepayment assumptions used in our discounted cash flow model are based on empirical data drawn from the historical performance of our MSR, which we believe are consistent with assumptions used by market participants valuing similar MSR, and from data obtained on the performance of similar MSR. The key assumptions used in the valuation of MSR include mortgage prepayment speeds and the discount rate. These variables can, and generally will, change from quarter to quarter as market conditions and projected interest rates change. The key risks inherent with MSR are prepayment speed and changes in interest rates.

The Company records a right-of-use asset (“ROUA”) on the consolidated balance sheets for those leases that convey rights to control use of identified assets for a period of time in exchange for consideration. The Company is also required to record a lease liability on the consolidated balance sheets for the present value of future payment commitments. Substantially all of the Company’s leases are comprised of operating leases in which the Company is lessee of real estate property for branches, ATM locations, and general administration and operations. The Company has elected not to include short-term leases (i.e. leases with initial terms of twelve months or less) within the ROUA and lease liability. Known or determinable adjustments to the required minimum future lease payments are included in the calculation of the Company’s ROUA and lease liability. Adjustments to the required minimum future lease payments that are variable and will not be determinable until a future period, such as changes in the consumer price index, are included as variable lease costs. Additionally, expected variable payments for common area maintenance, taxes and insurance are not unknown and not determinable at lease commencement and therefore, are not included in the determination of the Company’s ROUA or lease liability.

The value of the ROUA and lease liability is impacted by the amount of the periodic payment required, length of the lease term, and the discount rate used to calculate the present value of the minimum lease payments. The Company’s lease agreements often include one or more options to renew at the Company’s discretion. If at lease inception, the Company considers the exercising of a renewal option to be reasonably certain, the Company will include the extended term in the calculation of the ROU asset and lease liability. The Company uses the rate implicit in the lease whenever this rate is readily determinable. As this rate is rarely determinable, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate at lease inception, on a collateralized basis, over a similar term.

The Company accounts for low income housing tax credits and the related qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method. Under the proportional amortization method, the Company amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). Upon entering into a qualified affordable housing project, the Company records, in other liabilities, the entire amount that it has agreed to invest in the project, and an equal amount, in other assets, representing its investment in the project. As the Company disburses cash to satisfy its investment obligation, other liabilities are reduced. Over time, as the tax credits and other tax benefits of the project are realized by the Company, the investment recorded in other assets is reduced using the proportional amortization method.

The Company’s accounting for income taxes is based on an asset and liability approach. The Company recognizes the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year, and deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences that have been recognized in its financial statements or tax returns. The measurement of tax assets and liabilities is based on the provisions of enacted tax laws. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the expected amount most likely to be realized. Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of a sufficient level of future taxable income and recoverable taxes paid in prior years. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets will 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. Interest and/or penalties related to income taxes are reported as a component of non-interest income.

Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to employees and directors, based on the fair value of the awards at the date of grant. The estimate of the fair value of stock options and performance based restricted awards are based on a Black-Scholes or Monte Carlo model, respectively, while the market price of the common stock at the date of grant is used for time based restricted awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting or measurement period. The Company’s accounting policy is to recognize forfeitures as they occur.

Basic earnings per share represents income available to common shareholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. There are no unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to nonforfeitable dividends (participating securities). Diluted earnings per share reflects additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustments to income that would result from assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate solely from outstanding stock options and restricted stock units, and are determined using the treasury stock method.

The Company records revenue from contracts with customers in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“Topic 606”). Under Topic 606, the Company must identify the contract with a customer, identify the performance obligations in the contract, determine the transaction price, allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and recognize revenue when (or as) the Company satisfies a performance obligation.

Most of our revenue-generating transactions are not subject to Topic 606, including revenue generated from financial instruments, such as our loans and investment securities. In addition, certain non-interest income streams such as fees associated with mortgage servicing rights, financial guarantees, derivatives, and certain credit card fees are also not in scope of the new guidance. The Company’s non-interest revenue streams are largely based on transactional activity, or standard month-end revenue accruals such as asset management fees based on month-end market values. Consideration is often received immediately or shortly after the Company satisfies its performance obligation and revenue is recognized. The Company does not typically enter into long-term revenue contracts with customers, and therefore, does not experience significant contract balances. As of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company did not have any significant contract balances. The Company has evaluated the nature of its revenue streams and determined that further disaggregation of revenue into more granular categories beyond what is presented in Note 18 was not necessary. The following are descriptions of revenues within the scope of ASC 606.

The Company earns fees from its deposit customers for account maintenance, transaction-based and overdraft services. Account maintenance fees consist primarily of account fees and analyzed account fees charged on deposit accounts on a monthly basis. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are recognized on a monthly basis as the service period is completed. Transaction-based fees on deposit accounts are charged to deposit customers for specific services provided to the customer, such as non-sufficient funds fees, overdraft fees, and wire fees. The performance obligation is completed as the transaction occurs and the fees are recognized at the time each specific service is provided to the customer.

Debit and ATM interchange income represent fees earned when a debit card issued by the Company is used. The Company earns interchange fees from debit cardholder transactions through the Visa payment network. Interchange fees from cardholder transactions represent a percentage of the underlying transaction value and are recognized daily, concurrently with the transaction processing services provided to the cardholder. The performance obligation is satisfied and the fees are earned when the cost of the transaction is charged to the cardholders’ debit card. Certain expenses directly associated with the credit and debit card are recorded on a net basis with the interchange income.

Commissions on sale of non-deposit investment products consist of fees earned from advisory asset management, trade execution and administrative fees from investments. Advisory asset management fees are variable, since they are based on the underlying portfolio value, which is subject to market conditions and asset flows. Advisory asset management fees are recognized quarterly and are based on the portfolio values at the end of each quarter. Brokerage accounts are charged commissions at the time of a transaction and the commission schedule is based upon the type of security and quantity. In addition, revenues are earned from selling insurance and annuity policies. The amount of revenue earned is determined by the value and type of each instrument sold and is recognized at the time the policy or contract is written.

Merchant fee income represents fees earned by the Company for card payment services provided to its merchant customers. The Company outsources these services to a third party to provide card payment services to these merchants. The third party provider passes the payments made by the merchants through to the Company. The Company, in turn, pays the third party provider for the services it provides to the merchants. These payments to the third party provider are recorded as expenses as a net reduction against fee income. In addition, a portion of the payment received represents interchange fees which are passed through to the card issuing bank. Income is primarily earned based on the dollar volume and number of transactions processed. The performance obligation is satisfied and the related fee is earned when each payment is accepted by the processing network.

The Company records a gain or loss from the sale of other real estate owned when control of the property transfers to the buyer, which generally occurs at the time of an executed deed of trust. When the Company finances the sale of other real estate owned to the buyer, the Company assesses whether the buyer is committed to perform their obligations under the contract and whether collectability of the transaction price is probable. Once these criteria are met, the other real estate owned asset is derecognized and the gain or loss on sale is recorded upon the transfer of control of the property to the buyer. In determining the gain or loss on sale, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain or loss on sale if a significant financing component is present. Gains or losses from transactions associated with other real estate owned are recorded as a component of non-interest expense.