SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The consolidated financial statements of BancorpSouth, Inc. (the "Company") have been prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheets and revenues and expenses for the periods reported. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. The Company's subsidiaries are engaged in the business of banking, insurance, brokerage and other activities closely related to banking. The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to the regulations of certain federal and state regulatory agencies and undergo periodic examinations by those regulatory agencies. The following is a summary of the Company's more significant accounting and reporting policies. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, BancorpSouth Bank and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Bank") and Gumtree Wholesale Insurance Brokers, Inc. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Cash Flow Statements Cash equivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, including interest bearing deposits with other banks. The Company paid interest of $74.3 million, $108.6 million and $146.9 million and income taxes of $28.1 million, $11.6 million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Securities Securities are classified as either held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity securities are debt securities for which the Company has the ability and management has the intent to hold to maturity. They are reported at amortized cost. Trading securities are debt and equity securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term. They are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Available-for-sale securities are debt and equity securities not classified as either held-to-maturity securities or trading securities. They are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported, net of tax, as a separate component of shareholders' equity until realized. Gains and losses on securities are determined on the identified certificate basis. Amortization of premium and accretion of discount are computed using the interest method. During the second quarter of 2011, the Company determined that it no longer had the intent to hold until maturity all securities that were previously classified as held-to-maturity. As a result of this determination, all securities were classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value as of June 30, 2011. The Company reclassified held-to-maturity securities with amortized cost of $1.6 billion and fair value of $1.7 billion to available-for-sale resulting in an increase in other comprehensive income of $19.7 million during the second quarter of 2011. The Company did not have any securities classified as held-to-maturity at December 31, 2012 and 2011. Securities are evaluated periodically to determine whether a decline in their value is other-than-temporary. The term "other-than-temporary" is not intended to indicate a permanent decline in value. Rather, it means that the prospects for near term recovery of value are not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support fair values equal to, or greater than, the carrying value of the investment. Management reviews criteria such as the magnitude and duration of the decline, as well as the reasons for the decline, and whether the Company would be required to sell the securities before a full recovery of costs in order to predict whether the loss in value is other-than-temporary. Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the impairment is separated into (a) the amount of the impairment related to the credit loss and (b) the amount of the impairment related to all other factors. The value of the security is reduced by the other-than-temporary impairment with the amount of the impairment related to credit loss recognized as a charge to earnings and the amount of the impairment related to all other factors recognized in other comprehensive income. Securities Purchased and Sold Under Agreements to Resell or Repurchase Securities purchased under agreements to resell are accounted for as short-term investments and securities sold under agreements to repurchase are accounted for as collateralized financing transactions and are recorded at the amounts at which the securities were acquired or sold plus accrued interest. The securities pledged as collateral are generally U.S. government and federal agency securities. Loans and Leases Loans and leases are recorded at the face amount of the notes reduced by collections of principal. Loans and leases include net unamortized deferred origination costs and fees. Net deferred origination costs and fees are recognized as a component of income using the effective interest method. In the event of a loan pay-off, the remaining net deferred origination costs and fees are automatically recognized into income and/or expense. Where doubt exists as to the collectibility of the loans and leases, interest income is recorded as payment is received. Interest is recorded monthly as earned on all other loans. Loans of $200,000 or more that become 60 or more days past due are identified for review by the Impairment Committee, which decides whether an impairment exists and to what extent a specific allowance for loss should be made. Loans that do not meet these requirements may also be identified by management for impairment review. Loans subject to such review are evaluated as to collateral dependency, current collateral value, guarantor or other financial support and likely disposition. Each such loan is individually evaluated for impairment. The impairment evaluation of real estate loans generally focuses on the fair value of underlying collateral obtained from appraisals, as the repayment of these loans may be dependent on the liquidation of the collateral. In certain circumstances, other information such as comparable sales data is deemed to be a more reliable indicator of fair value of the underlying collateral than the most recent appraisal. In these instances, such information is used in determining the impairment recorded for the loan. As the repayment of commercial and industrial loans is generally dependent upon the cash flow of the borrower or guarantor support, the impairment evaluation generally focuses on the discounted future cash flows of the borrower or guarantor support, as well as the projected liquidation of any pledged collateral. The Impairment Committee reviews the results of each evaluation and approves the final impairment amounts, which are then included in the analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses in accordance with FASB ASC 310. Loans identified for impairment are placed in non-accrual status. The Company's policy is to obtain an appraisal at the time of loan origination for real estate collateral securing a loan of $250,000 or more, consistent with regulatory guidelines. The Company's policy is to obtain an updated appraisal when certain events occur, such as the refinancing of the debt, the renewal of the debt or events that indicate potential impairment. A new appraisal is generally ordered for loans greater than $200,000 that have characteristics of potential impairment, such as delinquency or other loan-specific factors identified by management, when a current appraisal (dated within the prior 12 months) is not available or when a current appraisal uses assumptions that are not consistent with the expected disposition of the loan collateral. In order to measure impairment properly at the time that a loan is deemed to be impaired, a staff appraiser may estimate the collateral fair value based upon earlier appraisals, sales contracts, approved foreclosure bids, comparable sales, officer estimates or current market conditions until a new appraisal is received. This estimate can be used to determine the extent of the impairment on the loan. After a loan is deemed to be impaired, it is management's policy to obtain an updated appraisal on at least an annual basis. Management performs a review of the pertinent facts and circumstances of each impaired loan, such as changes in outstanding balances, information received from loan officers, and receipt of re-appraisals, on a monthly basis. As of each review date, management considers whether additional impairment should be recorded based on recent activity related to the loan-specific collateral as well as other relevant comparable assets. Any adjustment to reflect further impairments, either as a result of management's periodic review or as a result of an updated appraisal, are made through recording additional loan loss provisions or charge-offs. At December 31, 2012, impaired loans totaled $156.7 million, which was net of cumulative charge-offs of $49.3 million. Additionally, the Company had specific reserves of $10.5 million included in the allowance for credit losses. Impaired loans at December 31, 2012 were primarily from the Company's residential construction, acquisition and development and commercial real estate portfolios. Impaired loan charge-offs are determined necessary when management does not anticipate any future recovery of collateral values. The loans were evaluated for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral securing the loan. As part of the impairment review process, appraisals are used to determine the property values. The appraised values that are used are generally based on the disposition value of the property, which assumes Bank ownership of the property "as-is" and a 180-day marketing period. If a current appraisal or one with an inspection date within the past 12 months using the necessary assumptions is not available, a new third-party appraisal is ordered. In cases where an impairment exists and a current appraisal is not available at the time of review, a staff appraiser may determine an estimated value based upon earlier appraisals, the sales contract, approved foreclosure bids, comparable sales, comparable appraisals, officer estimates or current market conditions until a new appraisal is received. After a new appraisal is received, the value used in the review will be updated and any adjustments to reflect further impairments are made. Appraisals are obtained from state-certified appraisers based on certain assumptions which may include foreclosure status, bank ownership, other real estate owned marketing period of 180 days, costs to sell, construction or development status and the highest and best use of the property. A staff appraiser may make adjustments to appraisals based on sales contracts, comparable sales and other pertinent information if an appraisal does not incorporate the effect of these assumptions. When a guarantor is relied upon as a source of repayment, the Company analyzes the strength of the guaranty. This analysis varies based on circumstances, but may include a review of the guarantor's personal and business financial statements and credit history, a review of the guarantor's tax returns and the preparation of a cash flow analysis of the guarantor. Management will continue to update its analysis on individual guarantors as circumstances change. Because of the continued weakness in the economy, subsequent analyses may result in the identification of the inability of some guarantors to perform under the agreed upon terms. The Bank's policy provides that loans and leases are generally placed in non-accrual status if, in management's opinion, payment in full of principal or interest is not expected or payment of principal or interest is more than 90 days past due, unless the loan or lease is both well-secured and in the process of collection. Once placed in non-accrual status, all accrued but uncollected interest related to the current fiscal year is reversed against the appropriate interest and fee income on loans and leases account with any accrued but uncollected interest related to prior fiscal years reversed against the allowance for credit losses account. In the normal course of business, management grants concessions to borrowers, which would not otherwise be considered, where the borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty. Loans identified as meeting the criteria set out in FASB ASC 310 are identified as TDRs. The concessions granted most frequently for TDRs involve reductions or delays in required payments of principal and interest for a specified time, the rescheduling of payments in accordance with a bankruptcy plan or the charge-off of a portion of the loan. In most cases, the conditions of the credit also warrant nonaccrual status, even after the restructure occurs. As part of the credit approval process, the restructured loans are evaluated for adequate collateral protection in determining the appropriate accrual status at the time of restructure. TDR loans may be returned to accrual status in years after the restructure if there has been at least a six-month sustained period of repayment performance under the restructured loan terms by the borrower and the interest rate at the time of restructure was at or above market for a comparable loan. During 2012, the most common concessions involved rescheduling payments of principal and interest over a longer amortization period, granting a period of reduced principal payment or interest only payment for a limited time period, or the rescheduling of payments in accordance with a bankruptcy plan. Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses The provision for credit losses is the periodic cost of providing an allowance or reserve for estimated probable losses on loans and leases. The Bank's Board of Directors has appointed a loan loss reserve valuation committee (the "Loan Loss Committee"), which bases its estimates of credit losses on three primary components: (1) estimates of inherent losses that may exist in various segments of performing loans and leases; (2) specifically identified losses in individually analyzed credits; and (3) qualitative factors that may impact the performance of the loan and lease portfolio. Factors such as financial condition of the borrower and guarantor, recent credit performance, delinquency, liquidity, cash flows, collateral type and value are used to assess credit risk. Expected loss estimates are influenced by the historical losses experienced by the Bank for loans and leases of comparable creditworthiness and structure. Specific loss assessments are performed for loans and leases of significant size and delinquency based upon the collateral protection and expected future cash flows to determine the amount of impairment under FASB ASC 310. In addition, qualitative factors such as changes in economic and business conditions, portfolio concentrations of risk, loan and lease growth, acquisitions and changes in portfolio risk resulting from regulatory changes are considered in determining the adequacy of the level of the allowance for credit losses. Attention is paid to the quality of the loan and lease portfolio through a formal loan review process. An independent loan review department of the Bank is responsible for reviewing the credit rating and classification of individual credits and assessing trends in the portfolio, adherence to internal credit policies and procedures and other factors that may affect the overall adequacy of the allowance for credit losses. The Loan Loss Committee is responsible for ensuring that the allowance for credit losses provides coverage of both known and inherent losses. The Loan Loss Committee meets at least quarterly to determine the amount of adjustments to the allowance for credit losses. The Loan Loss Committee is composed of senior management from the Bank's loan administration and finance departments. In 2010, the Bank established a real estate risk management group and an Impairment Committee. The real estate risk management group oversees compliance with regulations and U.S. GAAP related to lending activities where real estate is the primary collateral. The Impairment Committee is responsible for evaluating loans that have been specifically identified through various channels, including examination of the Bank's watch list, past due listings, findings of the internal loan review department, loan officer assessments and loans to borrowers or industries known to be experiencing problems. For all loans identified, the responsible loan officer in conjunction with his credit administrator is required to prepare an impairment analysis to be reviewed by the Impairment Committee. The Impairment Committee deems that a loan is impaired if it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the contractual principal and interest on the loan. The Impairment Committee also evaluates the circumstances surrounding the loan in order to determine if the loan officer used the most appropriate method for assessing the impairment of the loan (i.e., present value of expected future cash flows, observable market price or fair value of the underlying collateral). The Impairment Committee meets on a monthly basis. If concessions are granted to a borrower as a result of its financial difficulties, the loan is classified as a TDR and analyzed for possible impairment as part of the credit approval process. TDRs determined to be impaired are reserved in accordance with FASB ASC 310 in the same manner as impaired loans which are not TDRs. TDRs not determined to have an impairment are reserved consistent with loans of similar risk, performance and structure. Should the borrower's financial condition, collateral protection or performance deteriorate, warranting reassessment of the loan rating or impairment, additional reserves may be required. Any loan or portion thereof which is classified as "loss" by regulatory examiners or which is determined by management to be uncollectible, because of factors such as the borrower's failure to pay interest or principal, the borrower's financial condition, economic conditions in the borrower's industry or the inadequacy of underlying collateral, is charged off. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review the Bank's allowance for credit losses and may require an increase in the provision for credit losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management. Loans Held for Sale Mortgages originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value in the aggregate. Estimated fair value is determined on the basis of existing commitments or the current market value of similar loans. Loan sales are recognized when the transaction closes, the proceeds are collected, ownership is transferred and, through the sales agreement, continuing involvement consists of the right to service the loan for a fee for the life of the loan, if applicable. Gains on the sale of loans held for sale are recorded as part of mortgage lending revenue on the statement of income. In the course of conducting the Company's mortgage lending activities of originating mortgage loans and selling those loans in the secondary market, various representations and warranties are made to the purchasers of the mortgage loans. Every loan closed by the Bank's mortgage center is run through a government agency automated underwriting system. Any exceptions noted during this process are remedied prior to sale. These representations and warranties also apply to underwriting the real estate appraisal opinion of value for the collateral securing these loans. Under the representations and warranties, failure by the Company to comply with the underwriting and/or appraisal standards could result in the Company being required to repurchase the mortgage loan or to reimburse the investor for losses incurred (i.e., make whole requests) if such failure cannot be cured by the Company within the specified period following discovery. During 2012, 14 mortgage loans totaling $2.1 million were repurchased or otherwise settled as a result of underwriting and appraisal standard exceptions or make whole requests. Losses of approximately $782,000 were recognized related to these repurchased and make whole loans. During 2011, seven mortgage loans totaling approximately $803,000 were repurchased or otherwise settled as a result of underwriting and appraisal standard exceptions or make whole requests. Losses of approximately $181,000 were recognized related to these repurchased and make whole loans. At December 31, 2012, the Company had reserved approximately $729,000 for potential losses from representation and warranty obligations. Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") optional repurchase programs allow financial institutions to buy back individual delinquent mortgage loans that meet certain criteria from the securitized loan pool for which the institution provides servicing. At the servicer's option and without GNMA's prior authorization, the servicer may repurchase such a delinquent loan for an amount equal to 100% of the remaining principal balance of the loan. Under FASB ASC 860, this buy-back option is considered a conditional option until the delinquency criteria are met, at which time the option becomes unconditional. When the Company is deemed to have regained effective control over these loans under the unconditional buy-back option, the loans can no longer be reported as sold and must be brought back onto the balance sheet as loans held for sale, regardless of whether the Company intends to exercise the buy-back option. These loans are reported as held for sale in accordance with U.S. GAAP with the offsetting liability being reported as other liabilities. At December 31, 2012, the amount of loans subject to buy back was $21.8 million. Premises and Equipment Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Provisions for depreciation and amortization, computed using straight-line methods, are charged to expense over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the assets. Costs of major additions and improvements are capitalized. Expenditures for routine maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Other Real Estate Owned Real estate acquired through foreclosure, consisting of properties obtained through foreclosure proceedings or acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure, is reported on an individual asset basis at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs. Fair value is determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales and other estimates of value obtained principally from independent sources. Any excess of the loan balance at the time of foreclosure over the fair value of the real estate held as collateral is charged to the allowance for credit losses. Based upon management's evaluation of the real estate acquired through foreclosure, additional expense may be recorded and included in other noninterest expense when necessary in an amount sufficient to reflect any declines in estimated fair value. Gains and losses realized on the disposition of the properties are included in other noninterest expense. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents costs in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in connection with purchase business combinations. Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but instead tested for impairment at least annually in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment in accordance with FASB ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed annually within the fourth quarter for possible impairment, or sooner if a goodwill impairment indicator is identified. If impaired, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. No impairment charges have been recognized through December 31, 2012. See Note 9, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information. Mortgage Servicing Rights The Company recognizes as assets the rights to service mortgage loans for others, known as MSRs. The Company records MSRs at fair value on a recurring basis with subsequent remeasurement of MSRs based on change in fair value in accordance with FASB ASC 860. An estimate of the fair value of the Company's MSRs is determined utilizing assumptions about factors such as mortgage interest rates, discount rates, mortgage loan prepayment speeds, market trends and industry demand. Because the valuation is determined by using discounted cash flow models, the primary risk inherent in valuing the MSRs is the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the estimated life of the servicing revenue stream. The use of different estimates or assumptions could also produce different fair values. The Company does not hedge the change in fair value of MSRs and, therefore, the Company is susceptible to significant fluctuations in the fair value of its MSRs in changing interest rate environments. MSRs are included in the other assets category of the consolidated balance sheet. Changes in the fair value of MSRs are recorded as part of mortgage lending noninterest revenue on the consolidated statement of income. Pension and Postretirement Benefits Accounting The Company accounts for its defined benefit pension plans using an actuarial model as required by FASB ASC 715. This model uses an approach that allocates pension costs over the service period of employees in the plan. The Company also accounts for its other postretirement benefits using the requirements of FASB ASC 715. FASB ASC 715 requires the Company to recognize net periodic postretirement benefit costs as employees render the services necessary to earn their postretirement benefits. The principle underlying the accounting as required by FASB ASC 715 is that employees render service ratably over the service period and, therefore, the income statement effects of the Company's defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans should follow the same pattern. The Company accounts for the over-funded or under-funded status of its defined benefit and other postretirement plans as an asset or liability in its consolidated balance sheets and recognizes changes in that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income, as required by FASB ASC 715. The discount rate is the rate used to determine the present value of the Company's future benefit obligations for its pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The Company determines the discount rate to be used to discount plan liabilities at the measurement date with the assistance of its actuary using the actuary's proprietary model. The Company developed a level equivalent yield using its actuary's model as of December 31, 2012 model and the expected cash flows from the BancorpSouth, Inc. Retirement Plan (the "Basic Plan"), the BancorpSouth, Inc. Restoration Plan (the "Restoration Plan") and the BancorpSouth, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the "Supplemental Plan"). Based on this analysis, the Company established its discount rate assumptions for determination of the projected benefit obligation at 4.05% for the Basic Plan, 3.65% for the Restoration Plan and 2.85% for the Supplemental Plan based on a December 31, 2012 measurement date. Stock-Based Compensation At December 31, 2012, the Company had three stock-based employee compensation plans. The Company recognizes compensation costs related to these stock-based employee compensation plans in accordance with FASB ASC 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation ("FASB ASC 718"). The Company recognized compensation costs for unvested awards of $1.9 million, $2.1 million and $2.1 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. See Note 16, Stock Incentive and Stock Option Plans, for further disclosures regarding stock-based compensation. Derivative Instruments The derivative instruments held by the Company include commitments to fund fixed-rate mortgage loans to customers and forward commitments to sell individual, fixed-rate mortgage loans. The Company's objective in obtaining the forward commitments is to mitigate the interest rate risk associated with the commitments to fund the fixed-rate mortgage loans. Both the commitments to fund fixed-rate mortgage loans and the forward commitments to sell individual fixed-rate mortgage loans are reported at fair value, with adjustments being recorded in current period earnings, and are not accounted for as hedges. The Company also enters into derivative financial instruments to meet the financing, interest rate and equity risk management needs of its customers. Upon entering into these instruments to meet customer needs, the Company enters into offsetting positions to minimize interest rate and equity risk to the Company. These derivative financial instruments are reported at fair value with any resulting gain or loss recorded in current period earnings. These instruments and their offsetting positions are recorded in other assets and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2012, the notional amount of customer related derivative financial instruments was $496.2 million with an average maturity of 59.9 months, an average interest receive rate of 2.5% and an average interest pay rate of 5.7%. Income Taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the other assets and other liabilities category of the consolidated balance sheet as applicable. Insurance Commissions Commission income is recorded as of the effective date of insurance coverage or the billing date, whichever is later. Contingent commissions and commissions on premiums billed and collected directly by insurance companies are recorded as revenue when received, which is our first notification of amounts earned. The income effects of subsequent premium and fee adjustments are recorded when the adjustments become known. Recent Pronouncements In January 2010, the Company adopted a new accounting standard regarding accounting for transfers of financial assets. This new accounting standard eliminates the concept of a "qualifying special-purpose entity," changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets, and requires additional disclosures in order to enhance information reported to users of financial statements by providing greater transparency about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and an entity's continuing involvement in and exposure to the risks related to transferred financial assets. The adoption of this new accounting standard regarding accounting for transfers of financial assets has had no material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company. In January 2010, the Company adopted a new accounting standard regarding consolidation of variable interest entities. This new accounting standard amends existing accounting literature regarding consolidation of variable interest entities to improve financial reporting by enterprises involved with variable interest entities and to provide more relevant and reliable information to users of financial statements. The adoption of this new accounting standard regarding consolidation of variable interest entities has had no material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company. In January 2010, the FASB issued an accounting standards update ("ASU") regarding fair value measurements and disclosures. This ASU revises two disclosure requirements concerning fair value measurements and clarifies two others. This ASU requires expanded disclosures related to significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurement and the reasons for the transfers, as well as the clarifications of existing disclosures, and was effective for interim or annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009. The new disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements are effective for interim or annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2010. This ASU impacts disclosures only and is included in Note 14 below. This ASU did not have an impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company. In July 2010, the FASB issued a new accounting standard regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses. This new accounting standard amends existing accounting literature regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing an entity's credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses. This new accounting standard is effective for fiscal years and interim reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010. This new accounting standard regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses impacts disclosures only and is included in Notes 5 and 6 below. The new accounting standard did not have an impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company. In April 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding a creditor's determination of whether a restructuring should be considered a TDR. This ASU provides additional guidance related to determining whether a creditor has granted a concession, including factors and examples for creditors to consider in evaluating whether a restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant. The ASU also prohibits creditors from using the borrower's effective rate test to evaluate whether a concession has been granted to the borrower and adds factors for creditors to use in determining whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties. The ASU ends the deferral of activity-based disclosures about TDRs that are part of the new credit-quality disclosure requirements. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after June 15, 2011. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company. In April 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding reconsideration of effective control for repurchase agreements. This ASU removes from the assessment of effective control (1) the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets on substantially the agreed terms, even in the event of default by the transferee, and (2) the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion. Other criteria applicable to the assessment of effective control are not changed by this ASU. The ASU is effective for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after December 15, 2011 and should be applied prospectively to transactions or modifications of existing transactions that occur on or after the effective date. Early adoption is not permitted. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company. In May 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding amendments to achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). This ASU provides amendments to ensure that fair value has the same meaning in U.S. GAAP and IFRS and that their respective fair value measurements and disclosure requirements are the same. The ASU is effective during interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and should be applied prospectively. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company. In June 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding the presentation of comprehensive income. This ASU amends existing guidance and eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in shareholder's equity. This ASU requires that comprehensive income be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive statements. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this ASU changed the manner in which the Company's other comprehensive income is disclosed and did not have an impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company. In September 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding goodwill impairment. This ASU gives companies the option to perform a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying value as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company. In July 2012, the FASB issued an ASU regarding indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment. This ASU permits companies to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative impairment test on that asset. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after September 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

(1) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements of BancorpSouth, Inc. (the "Company") have been prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP. In preparing the financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities as of the date of the balance sheets and revenues and expenses for the periods reported. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. The Company's subsidiaries are engaged in the business of banking, insurance, brokerage and other activities closely related to banking. The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to the regulations of certain federal and state regulatory agencies and undergo periodic examinations by those regulatory agencies. The following is a summary of the Company's more significant accounting and reporting policies.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, BancorpSouth Bank and its wholly owned subsidiaries (the "Bank") and Gumtree Wholesale Insurance Brokers, Inc. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Cash Flow Statements

Cash equivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, including interest bearing deposits with other banks. The Company paid interest of $74.3 million, $108.6 million and $146.9 million and income taxes of $28.1 million, $11.6 million and $1.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Securities

Securities are classified as either held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity securities are debt securities for which the Company has the ability and management has the intent to hold to maturity. They are reported at amortized cost. Trading securities are debt and equity securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term. They are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Available-for-sale securities are debt and equity securities not classified as either held-to-maturity securities or trading securities. They are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported, net of tax, as a separate component of shareholders' equity until realized. Gains and losses on securities are determined on the identified certificate basis. Amortization of premium and accretion of discount are computed using the interest method.

During the second quarter of 2011, the Company determined that it no longer had the intent to hold until maturity all securities that were previously classified as held-to-maturity. As a result of this determination, all securities were classified as available-for-sale and recorded at fair value as of June 30, 2011. The Company reclassified held-to-maturity securities with amortized cost of $1.6 billion and fair value of $1.7 billion to available-for-sale resulting in an increase in other comprehensive income of $19.7 million during the second quarter of 2011. The Company did not have any securities classified as held-to-maturity at December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Securities are evaluated periodically to determine whether a decline in their value is other-than-temporary. The term "other-than-temporary" is not intended to indicate a permanent decline in value. Rather, it means that the prospects for near term recovery of value are not necessarily favorable, or that there is a lack of evidence to support fair values equal to, or greater than, the carrying value of the investment. Management reviews criteria such as the magnitude and duration of the decline, as well as the reasons for the decline, and whether the Company would be required to sell the securities before a full recovery of costs in order to predict whether the loss in value is other-than-temporary. Once a decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary, the impairment is separated into (a) the amount of the impairment related to the credit loss and (b) the amount of the impairment related to all other factors. The value of the security is reduced by the other-than-temporary impairment with the amount of the impairment related to credit loss recognized as a charge to earnings and the amount of the impairment related to all other factors recognized in other comprehensive income.

Securities Purchased and Sold Under Agreements to Resell or Repurchase

Securities purchased under agreements to resell are accounted for as short-term investments and securities sold under agreements to repurchase are accounted for as collateralized financing transactions and are recorded at the amounts at which the securities were acquired or sold plus accrued interest. The securities pledged as collateral are generally U.S. government and federal agency securities.

Loans and Leases

Loans and leases are recorded at the face amount of the notes reduced by collections of principal. Loans and leases include net unamortized deferred origination costs and fees. Net deferred origination costs and fees are recognized as a component of income using the effective interest method. In the event of a loan pay-off, the remaining net deferred origination costs and fees are automatically recognized into income and/or expense. Where doubt exists as to the collectibility of the loans and leases, interest income is recorded as payment is received. Interest is recorded monthly as earned on all other loans.

Loans of $200,000 or more that become 60 or more days past due are identified for review by the Impairment Committee, which decides whether an impairment exists and to what extent a specific allowance for loss should be made. Loans that do not meet these requirements may also be identified by management for impairment review. Loans subject to such review are evaluated as to collateral dependency, current collateral value, guarantor or other financial support and likely disposition. Each such loan is individually evaluated for impairment. The impairment evaluation of real estate loans generally focuses on the fair value of underlying collateral obtained from appraisals, as the repayment of these loans may be dependent on the liquidation of the collateral. In certain circumstances, other information such as comparable sales data is deemed to be a more reliable indicator of fair value of the underlying collateral than the most recent appraisal. In these instances, such information is used in determining the impairment recorded for the loan. As the repayment of commercial and industrial loans is generally dependent upon the cash flow of the borrower or guarantor support, the impairment evaluation generally focuses on the discounted future cash flows of the borrower or guarantor support, as well as the projected liquidation of any pledged collateral. The Impairment Committee reviews the results of each evaluation and approves the final impairment amounts, which are then included in the analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses in accordance with FASB ASC 310. Loans identified for impairment are placed in non-accrual status.

The Company's policy is to obtain an appraisal at the time of loan origination for real estate collateral securing a loan of $250,000 or more, consistent with regulatory guidelines. The Company's policy is to obtain an updated appraisal when certain events occur, such as the refinancing of the debt, the renewal of the debt or events that indicate potential impairment. A new appraisal is generally ordered for loans greater than $200,000 that have characteristics of potential impairment, such as delinquency or other loan-specific factors identified by management, when a current appraisal (dated within the prior 12 months) is not available or when a current appraisal uses assumptions that are not consistent with the expected disposition of the loan collateral. In order to measure impairment properly at the time that a loan is deemed to be impaired, a staff appraiser may estimate the collateral fair value based upon earlier appraisals, sales contracts, approved foreclosure bids, comparable sales, officer estimates or current market conditions until a new appraisal is received. This estimate can be used to determine the extent of the impairment on the loan. After a loan is deemed to be impaired, it is management's policy to obtain an updated appraisal on at least an annual basis. Management performs a review of the pertinent facts and circumstances of each impaired loan, such as changes in outstanding balances, information received from loan officers, and receipt of re-appraisals, on a monthly basis. As of each review date, management considers whether additional impairment should be recorded based on recent activity related to the loan-specific collateral as well as other relevant comparable assets. Any adjustment to reflect further impairments, either as a result of management's periodic review or as a result of an updated appraisal, are made through recording additional loan loss provisions or charge-offs.

At December 31, 2012, impaired loans totaled $156.7 million, which was net of cumulative charge-offs of $49.3 million. Additionally, the Company had specific reserves of $10.5 million included in the allowance for credit losses. Impaired loans at December 31, 2012 were primarily from the Company's residential construction, acquisition and development and commercial real estate portfolios. Impaired loan charge-offs are determined necessary when management does not anticipate any future recovery of collateral values. The loans were evaluated for impairment based on the fair value of the underlying collateral securing the loan. As part of the impairment review process, appraisals are used to determine the property values. The appraised values that are used are generally based on the disposition value of the property, which assumes Bank ownership of the property "as-is" and a 180-day marketing period. If a current appraisal or one with an inspection date within the past 12 months using the necessary assumptions is not available, a new third-party appraisal is ordered. In cases where an impairment exists and a current appraisal is not available at the time of review, a staff appraiser may determine an estimated value based upon earlier appraisals, the sales contract, approved foreclosure bids, comparable sales, comparable appraisals, officer estimates or current market conditions until a new appraisal is received. After a new appraisal is received, the value used in the review will be updated and any adjustments to reflect further impairments are made. Appraisals are obtained from state-certified appraisers based on certain assumptions which may include foreclosure status, bank ownership, other real estate owned marketing period of 180 days, costs to sell, construction or development status and the highest and best use of the property. A staff appraiser may make adjustments to appraisals based on sales contracts, comparable sales and other pertinent information if an appraisal does not incorporate the effect of these assumptions.

When a guarantor is relied upon as a source of repayment, the Company analyzes the strength of the guaranty. This analysis varies based on circumstances, but may include a review of the guarantor's personal and business financial statements and credit history, a review of the guarantor's tax returns and the preparation of a cash flow analysis of the guarantor. Management will continue to update its analysis on individual guarantors as circumstances change. Because of the continued weakness in the economy, subsequent analyses may result in the identification of the inability of some guarantors to perform under the agreed upon terms.

The Bank's policy provides that loans and leases are generally placed in non-accrual status if, in management's opinion, payment in full of principal or interest is not expected or payment of principal or interest is more than 90 days past due, unless the loan or lease is both well-secured and in the process of collection. Once placed in non-accrual status, all accrued but uncollected interest related to the current fiscal year is reversed against the appropriate interest and fee income on loans and leases account with any accrued but uncollected interest related to prior fiscal years reversed against the allowance for credit losses account.

In the normal course of business, management grants concessions to borrowers, which would not otherwise be considered, where the borrowers are experiencing financial difficulty. Loans identified as meeting the criteria set out in FASB ASC 310 are identified as TDRs. The concessions granted most frequently for TDRs involve reductions or delays in required payments of principal and interest for a specified time, the rescheduling of payments in accordance with a bankruptcy plan or the charge-off of a portion of the loan. In most cases, the conditions of the credit also warrant nonaccrual status, even after the restructure occurs. As part of the credit approval process, the restructured loans are evaluated for adequate collateral protection in determining the appropriate accrual status at the time of restructure. TDR loans may be returned to accrual status in years after the restructure if there has been at least a six-month sustained period of repayment performance under the restructured loan terms by the borrower and the interest rate at the time of restructure was at or above market for a comparable loan. During 2012, the most common concessions involved rescheduling payments of principal and interest over a longer amortization period, granting a period of reduced principal payment or interest only payment for a limited time period, or the rescheduling of payments in accordance with a bankruptcy plan.

Provision and Allowance for Credit Losses

The provision for credit losses is the periodic cost of providing an allowance or reserve for estimated probable losses on loans and leases. The Bank's Board of Directors has appointed a loan loss reserve valuation committee (the "Loan Loss Committee"), which bases its estimates of credit losses on three primary components: (1) estimates of inherent losses that may exist in various segments of performing loans and leases; (2) specifically identified losses in individually analyzed credits; and (3) qualitative factors that may impact the performance of the loan and lease portfolio. Factors such as financial condition of the borrower and guarantor, recent credit performance, delinquency, liquidity, cash flows, collateral type and value are used to assess credit risk. Expected loss estimates are influenced by the historical losses experienced by the Bank for loans and leases of comparable creditworthiness and structure. Specific loss assessments are performed for loans and leases of significant size and delinquency based upon the collateral protection and expected future cash flows to determine the amount of impairment under FASB ASC 310. In addition, qualitative factors such as changes in economic and business conditions, portfolio concentrations of risk, loan and lease growth, acquisitions and changes in portfolio risk resulting from regulatory changes are considered in determining the adequacy of the level of the allowance for credit losses.

Attention is paid to the quality of the loan and lease portfolio through a formal loan review process. An independent loan review department of the Bank is responsible for reviewing the credit rating and classification of individual credits and assessing trends in the portfolio, adherence to internal credit policies and procedures and other factors that may affect the overall adequacy of the allowance for credit losses. The Loan Loss Committee is responsible for ensuring that the allowance for credit losses provides coverage of both known and inherent losses. The Loan Loss Committee meets at least quarterly to determine the amount of adjustments to the allowance for credit losses. The Loan Loss Committee is composed of senior management from the Bank's loan administration and finance departments. In 2010, the Bank established a real estate risk management group and an Impairment Committee. The real estate risk management group oversees compliance with regulations and U.S. GAAP related to lending activities where real estate is the primary collateral. The Impairment Committee is responsible for evaluating loans that have been specifically identified through various channels, including examination of the Bank's watch list, past due listings, findings of the internal loan review department, loan officer assessments and loans to borrowers or industries known to be experiencing problems. For all loans identified, the responsible loan officer in conjunction with his credit administrator is required to prepare an impairment analysis to be reviewed by the Impairment Committee. The Impairment Committee deems that a loan is impaired if it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the contractual principal and interest on the loan. The Impairment Committee also evaluates the circumstances surrounding the loan in order to determine if the loan officer used the most appropriate method for assessing the impairment of the loan (i.e., present value of expected future cash flows, observable market price or fair value of the underlying collateral). The Impairment Committee meets on a monthly basis.

If concessions are granted to a borrower as a result of its financial difficulties, the loan is classified as a TDR and analyzed for possible impairment as part of the credit approval process. TDRs determined to be impaired are reserved in accordance with FASB ASC 310 in the same manner as impaired loans which are not TDRs. TDRs not determined to have an impairment are reserved consistent with loans of similar risk, performance and structure. Should the borrower's financial condition, collateral protection or performance deteriorate, warranting reassessment of the loan rating or impairment, additional reserves may be required.

Any loan or portion thereof which is classified as "loss" by regulatory examiners or which is determined by management to be uncollectible, because of factors such as the borrower's failure to pay interest or principal, the borrower's financial condition, economic conditions in the borrower's industry or the inadequacy of underlying collateral, is charged off. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically review the Bank's allowance for credit losses and may require an increase in the provision for credit losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments different than those of management.

Loans Held for Sale

Mortgages originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value in the aggregate. Estimated fair value is determined on the basis of existing commitments or the current market value of similar loans. Loan sales are recognized when the transaction closes, the proceeds are collected, ownership is transferred and, through the sales agreement, continuing involvement consists of the right to service the loan for a fee for the life of the loan, if applicable. Gains on the sale of loans held for sale are recorded as part of mortgage lending revenue on the statement of income.

In the course of conducting the Company's mortgage lending activities of originating mortgage loans and selling those loans in the secondary market, various representations and warranties are made to the purchasers of the mortgage loans. Every loan closed by the Bank's mortgage center is run through a government agency automated underwriting system. Any exceptions noted during this process are remedied prior to sale. These representations and warranties also apply to underwriting the real estate appraisal opinion of value for the collateral securing these loans. Under the representations and warranties, failure by the Company to comply with the underwriting and/or appraisal standards could result in the Company being required to repurchase the mortgage loan or to reimburse the investor for losses incurred (i.e., make whole requests) if such failure cannot be cured by the Company within the specified period following discovery. During 2012, 14 mortgage loans totaling $2.1 million were repurchased or otherwise settled as a result of underwriting and appraisal standard exceptions or make whole requests. Losses of approximately $782,000 were recognized related to these repurchased and make whole loans. During 2011, seven mortgage loans totaling approximately $803,000 were repurchased or otherwise settled as a result of underwriting and appraisal standard exceptions or make whole requests. Losses of approximately $181,000 were recognized related to these repurchased and make whole loans. At December 31, 2012, the Company had reserved approximately $729,000 for potential losses from representation and warranty obligations.

Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") optional repurchase programs allow financial institutions to buy back individual delinquent mortgage loans that meet certain criteria from the securitized loan pool for which the institution provides servicing. At the servicer's option and without GNMA's prior authorization, the servicer may repurchase such a delinquent loan for an amount equal to 100% of the remaining principal balance of the loan. Under FASB ASC 860, this buy-back option is considered a conditional option until the delinquency criteria are met, at which time the option becomes unconditional. When the Company is deemed to have regained effective control over these loans under the unconditional buy-back option, the loans can no longer be reported as sold and must be brought back onto the balance sheet as loans held for sale, regardless of whether the Company intends to exercise the buy-back option. These loans are reported as held for sale in accordance with U.S. GAAP with the offsetting liability being reported as other liabilities. At December 31, 2012, the amount of loans subject to buy back was $21.8 million.

Premises and Equipment

Premises and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Provisions for depreciation and amortization, computed using straight-line methods, are charged to expense over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the assets. Costs of major additions and improvements are capitalized. Expenditures for routine maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.

Other Real Estate Owned

Real estate acquired through foreclosure, consisting of properties obtained through foreclosure proceedings or acceptance of a deed in lieu of foreclosure, is reported on an individual asset basis at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs. Fair value is determined on the basis of current appraisals, comparable sales and other estimates of value obtained principally from independent sources. Any excess of the loan balance at the time of foreclosure over the fair value of the real estate held as collateral is charged to the allowance for credit losses. Based upon management's evaluation of the real estate acquired through foreclosure, additional expense may be recorded and included in other noninterest expense when necessary in an amount sufficient to reflect any declines in estimated fair value. Gains and losses realized on the disposition of the properties are included in other noninterest expense.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents costs in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in connection with purchase business combinations. Goodwill and intangible assets acquired in a purchase business combination and determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, but instead tested for impairment at least annually in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 350, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other. Intangible assets with estimable useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment in accordance with FASB ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment. Goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed annually within the fourth quarter for possible impairment, or sooner if a goodwill impairment indicator is identified. If impaired, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. No impairment charges have been recognized through December 31, 2012. See Note 9, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information.

Mortgage Servicing Rights

The Company recognizes as assets the rights to service mortgage loans for others, known as MSRs. The Company records MSRs at fair value on a recurring basis with subsequent remeasurement of MSRs based on change in fair value in accordance with FASB ASC 860. An estimate of the fair value of the Company's MSRs is determined utilizing assumptions about factors such as mortgage interest rates, discount rates, mortgage loan prepayment speeds, market trends and industry demand. Because the valuation is determined by using discounted cash flow models, the primary risk inherent in valuing the MSRs is the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the estimated life of the servicing revenue stream. The use of different estimates or assumptions could also produce different fair values. The Company does not hedge the change in fair value of MSRs and, therefore, the Company is susceptible to significant fluctuations in the fair value of its MSRs in changing interest rate environments. MSRs are included in the other assets category of the consolidated balance sheet. Changes in the fair value of MSRs are recorded as part of mortgage lending noninterest revenue on the consolidated statement of income.

Pension and Postretirement Benefits Accounting

The Company accounts for its defined benefit pension plans using an actuarial model as required by FASB ASC 715. This model uses an approach that allocates pension costs over the service period of employees in the plan. The Company also accounts for its other postretirement benefits using the requirements of FASB ASC 715. FASB ASC 715 requires the Company to recognize net periodic postretirement benefit costs as employees render the services necessary to earn their postretirement benefits. The principle underlying the accounting as required by FASB ASC 715 is that employees render service ratably over the service period and, therefore, the income statement effects of the Company's defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans should follow the same pattern. The Company accounts for the over-funded or under-funded status of its defined benefit and other postretirement plans as an asset or liability in its consolidated balance sheets and recognizes changes in that funded status in the year in which the changes occur through comprehensive income, as required by FASB ASC 715.

The discount rate is the rate used to determine the present value of the Company's future benefit obligations for its pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The Company determines the discount rate to be used to discount plan liabilities at the measurement date with the assistance of its actuary using the actuary's proprietary model. The Company developed a level equivalent yield using its actuary's model as of December 31, 2012 model and the expected cash flows from the BancorpSouth, Inc. Retirement Plan (the "Basic Plan"), the BancorpSouth, Inc. Restoration Plan (the "Restoration Plan") and the BancorpSouth, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the "Supplemental Plan"). Based on this analysis, the Company established its discount rate assumptions for determination of the projected benefit obligation at 4.05% for the Basic Plan, 3.65% for the Restoration Plan and 2.85% for the Supplemental Plan based on a December 31, 2012 measurement date.

Stock-Based Compensation

At December 31, 2012, the Company had three stock-based employee compensation plans. The Company recognizes compensation costs related to these stock-based employee compensation plans in accordance with FASB ASC 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation ("FASB ASC 718"). The Company recognized compensation costs for unvested awards of $1.9 million, $2.1 million and $2.1 million in 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. See Note 16, Stock Incentive and Stock Option Plans, for further disclosures regarding stock-based compensation.

Derivative Instruments

The derivative instruments held by the Company include commitments to fund fixed-rate mortgage loans to customers and forward commitments to sell individual, fixed-rate mortgage loans. The Company's objective in obtaining the forward commitments is to mitigate the interest rate risk associated with the commitments to fund the fixed-rate mortgage loans. Both the commitments to fund fixed-rate mortgage loans and the forward commitments to sell individual fixed-rate mortgage loans are reported at fair value, with adjustments being recorded in current period earnings, and are not accounted for as hedges.

The Company also enters into derivative financial instruments to meet the financing, interest rate and equity risk management needs of its customers. Upon entering into these instruments to meet customer needs, the Company enters into offsetting positions to minimize interest rate and equity risk to the Company. These derivative financial instruments are reported at fair value with any resulting gain or loss recorded in current period earnings. These instruments and their offsetting positions are recorded in other assets and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2012, the notional amount of customer related derivative financial instruments was $496.2 million with an average maturity of 59.9 months, an average interest receive rate of 2.5% and an average interest pay rate of 5.7%.

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the other assets and other liabilities category of the consolidated balance sheet as applicable.

Insurance Commissions

Commission income is recorded as of the effective date of insurance coverage or the billing date, whichever is later. Contingent commissions and commissions on premiums billed and collected directly by insurance companies are recorded as revenue when received, which is our first notification of amounts earned. The income effects of subsequent premium and fee adjustments are recorded when the adjustments become known.

Recent Pronouncements

In January 2010, the Company adopted a new accounting standard regarding accounting for transfers of financial assets. This new accounting standard eliminates the concept of a "qualifying special-purpose entity," changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets, and requires additional disclosures in order to enhance information reported to users of financial statements by providing greater transparency about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and an entity's continuing involvement in and exposure to the risks related to transferred financial assets. The adoption of this new accounting standard regarding accounting for transfers of financial assets has had no material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

In January 2010, the Company adopted a new accounting standard regarding consolidation of variable interest entities. This new accounting standard amends existing accounting literature regarding consolidation of variable interest entities to improve financial reporting by enterprises involved with variable interest entities and to provide more relevant and reliable information to users of financial statements. The adoption of this new accounting standard regarding consolidation of variable interest entities has had no material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

In January 2010, the FASB issued an accounting standards update ("ASU") regarding fair value measurements and disclosures. This ASU revises two disclosure requirements concerning fair value measurements and clarifies two others. This ASU requires expanded disclosures related to significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurement and the reasons for the transfers, as well as the clarifications of existing disclosures, and was effective for interim or annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009. The new disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements are effective for interim or annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2010. This ASU impacts disclosures only and is included in Note 14 below. This ASU did not have an impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

In July 2010, the FASB issued a new accounting standard regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses. This new accounting standard amends existing accounting literature regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing an entity's credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses. This new accounting standard is effective for fiscal years and interim reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010. This new accounting standard regarding disclosures about the credit quality of financing receivables and the allowance for credit losses impacts disclosures only and is included in Notes 5 and 6 below. The new accounting standard did not have an impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

In April 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding a creditor's determination of whether a restructuring should be considered a TDR. This ASU provides additional guidance related to determining whether a creditor has granted a concession, including factors and examples for creditors to consider in evaluating whether a restructuring results in a delay in payment that is insignificant. The ASU also prohibits creditors from using the borrower's effective rate test to evaluate whether a concession has been granted to the borrower and adds factors for creditors to use in determining whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties. The ASU ends the deferral of activity-based disclosures about TDRs that are part of the new credit-quality disclosure requirements. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after June 15, 2011. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

In April 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding reconsideration of effective control for repurchase agreements. This ASU removes from the assessment of effective control (1) the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets on substantially the agreed terms, even in the event of default by the transferee, and (2) the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion. Other criteria applicable to the assessment of effective control are not changed by this ASU. The ASU is effective for the first interim or annual period beginning on or after December 15, 2011 and should be applied prospectively to transactions or modifications of existing transactions that occur on or after the effective date. Early adoption is not permitted. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

In May 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding amendments to achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). This ASU provides amendments to ensure that fair value has the same meaning in U.S. GAAP and IFRS and that their respective fair value measurements and disclosure requirements are the same. The ASU is effective during interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and should be applied prospectively. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

In June 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding the presentation of comprehensive income. This ASU amends existing guidance and eliminates the option to present the components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in shareholder's equity. This ASU requires that comprehensive income be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive statements. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2011. The adoption of this ASU changed the manner in which the Company's other comprehensive income is disclosed and did not have an impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

In September 2011, the FASB issued an ASU regarding goodwill impairment. This ASU gives companies the option to perform a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying value as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.

In July 2012, the FASB issued an ASU regarding indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment. This ASU permits companies to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative impairment test on that asset. This ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after September 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted. This ASU did not have a material impact on the financial position and results of operations of the Company.