SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2022
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Nature of Operations and Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include Lakeland Financial Corporation (the “Holding Company”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Lake City Bank (the “Bank”) and LCB Risk Management, Inc., together referred to as (the “Company”). On December 18, 2006, LCB Investments II, Inc. was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank incorporated in Nevada to manage a portion of the Bank’s investment portfolio beginning in 2007. On December 21, 2006, LCB Funding, Inc., a real estate investment trust incorporated in Maryland, was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of LCB Investments II, Inc. On December 28, 2012, LCB Risk Management, Inc., a captive insurance company incorporated in Nevada, was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Holding Company. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. The Company provides financial services through the Bank, a full-service commercial bank with 52 branch offices in fifteen counties in Northern and Central Indiana. The Company provides commercial, retail, trust and investment services to its customers. Commercial products include commercial loans and technology-driven solutions to meet commercial customers’ treasury management needs such as mobile business banking and online treasury management services. Retail banking clients are provided a wide array of traditional retail banking services, including lending, deposit and investment services. Retail lending programs are focused on mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit and traditional retail installment loans. The Company provides credit card services to retail and commercial customers through its retail card program and merchant processing activity. The Company provides wealth advisory and trust clients with traditional personal and corporate trust services. The Company also provides retail brokerage services, including an array of financial and investment products such as annuities and life insurance. Other financial instruments, which represent potential concentrations of credit risk, include deposit accounts in other financial institutions. Use of Estimates: To prepare financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), management makes estimates and assumptions based on available information. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures provided and future results could differ. Cash Flows: Cash and cash equivalents include cash, demand deposits in other financial institutions and short-term investments and certificates of deposit with maturities of 90 days or less. Cash flows are reported net for customer loan and deposit transactions, and certain short-term borrowings. Securities: Securities are classified as available-for-sale when they might be sold before maturity. Securities available-for-sale are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. Securities are classified as held-to-maturity and carried at amortized cost when management has the positive intent and ability to hold them to maturity. Purchase premiums or discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities or over estimated lives for mortgage-backed securities. Gains and losses on sales are based on the amortized cost of the security sold and recorded on the trade date. For securities in an unrealized loss position, management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the Company evaluates whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. In making this assessment, management considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, nature of the security, the underlying collateral, and the financial condition of the issuer, among other factors. If this assessment indicates a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and a valuation allowance for securities losses is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) amortized cost basis. Any impairment that has not been recorded through a valuation allowance for securities losses is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in the valuation allowance for securities losses are recorded as a component of credit loss expense. Losses are charged against the valuation allowance for securities losses when management believes the uncollectibility of the security is confirmed or when either criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. A portion of the municipal bond portfolio is classified as held-to-maturity. The Company measures expected credit losses on investment securities held-to-maturity on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company considers (1) issuer bond ratings, (2) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (3) the financial condition of the issuer, and (4) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. Historical loss rates associated with securities having similar grades as those in the Company's portfolio have been insignificant. After completing this assessment, the Company determined any credit losses as of December 31, 2022 were not material to the consolidated financial statements. Real Estate Mortgage Loans Held-for-Sale: Loans held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or fair value on an aggregate basis. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recorded as a valuation allowance and charged to earnings. Loan sales occur on the delivery date agreed to in the relevant commitment agreement. The Company retains servicing on the majority of loans sold. The carrying value of loans sold is reduced by the amount allocated to the servicing right. The gain or loss on the sale of loans is the difference between the carrying value of the loans sold and the funds received from the sale. Loans: Loans that management has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff are reported at the principal balance outstanding, net of unearned interest, deferred loan fees and costs, and an allowance for credit losses. Interest income is reported on the interest method and includes amortization of net deferred loan fees and costs over the loan term. All classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multi-family residential, agri-business and agricultural, other commercial and consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans for which collateral is insufficient to cover all principal and accrued interest are reclassified as nonaccrual loans, on or before the date when the loan becomes 90 days delinquent. When a loan is classified as a nonaccrual loan, interest on the loan is no longer accrued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed and interest income is subsequently recorded on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method. Accrual status is resumed when all contractually due payments are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. Other consumer loans are not placed on a nonaccrual status since these loans are charged-off when they have been delinquent from 90 to 180 days, and when the related collateral, if any, is not sufficient to offset the indebtedness. Nonaccrual loans and loans past due 90 days still on accrual include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated and individually analyzed loans. The recorded investment in loans is the loan balance net of unamortized deferred loan fees and costs. The total amount of accrued interest on loans as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $18.4 million and $10.0 million. Allowance for Credit Losses: The allowance for credit losses is a valuation allowance to provide for expected credit losses. Losses are charged against the allowance when management believes that the principal is uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Allocations of the allowance are made for specific loans and for pools of similar types of loans, although the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management's judgment, should be charged against the allowance. A provision for credit losses is taken based on management's ongoing evaluation of the appropriate allowance balance. A formal evaluation of the adequacy of the credit loss allowance is conducted monthly. The ultimate recovery of all loans is susceptible to future market factors beyond the Company's control. The determination of the appropriate allowance is inherently subjective, as it requires significant estimates by management. The Company has an established process to determine the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses that generally includes consideration of changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio and overall portfolio quality, along NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) with current and forecasted economic conditions that may affect borrowers' ability to repay. Consideration is not limited to these factors although they represent the most commonly cited factors. To determine the specific allocation levels for individual credits, management considers the current valuation of collateral and the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows as the primary measures. Management also considers trends in adversely classified loans based upon an ongoing review of those credits. With respect to pools of similar loans, an appropriate level of general allowance is determined by portfolio segment using a probability of default-loss given default ("PD/LGD") model, subject to a floor. A default can be triggered by one of several different asset quality factors, including past due status, nonaccrual status, material modification to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty or if the loan has had a charge-off. This PD is then combined with a LGD derived from historical charge-off data to construct a loss rate. This loss rate is then supplemented with adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts of relevant economic indicators, particularly the unemployment rate forecast from the Federal Open Market Committee's Summary of Economic Projections, as well as portfolio trends based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These environmental factors include consideration of portfolio trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. It is also possible that these factors could include social, political, economic, and terrorist events or activities. All of these factors are susceptible to change, which may be significant. As a result of this detailed process, the allowance results in two forms of allocations, specific and general. These two components represent the total allowance for credit losses deemed adequate to cover expected losses within the loan portfolio. Commercial loans are subject to a dual standardized grading process administered by the credit administration function. These grade assignments are performed independent of each other, and a consensus is reached by credit administration and the loan officer. Specific allowances are established in cases where management has identified significant conditions or circumstances related to an individual credit that indicate it should be evaluated on an individual basis. Considerations with respect to specific allocations for these individual credits include, but are not limited to, the following: (a) the sufficiency of the customer's cash flow or net worth to repay the loan; (b) the adequacy of the discounted value of collateral relative to the loan balance; (c) whether the loan has been criticized in a regulatory examination; (d) whether the loan is nonperforming; (e) any other reasons the ultimate collectability of the loan may be in question; or (f) any unique loan characteristics that require special monitoring. Allocations are also applied to categories of loans considered not to be individually analyzed, but for which the rate of loss is expected to be consistent with or greater than historical averages. Such allocations are based on past loss experience and information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values. These general pooled loan allocations are performed for portfolio segments of commercial and industrial; commercial real estate, multi-family, and construction; agri-business and agricultural; other commercial loans; and consumer 1-4 family mortgage and other consumer loans. General allocations of the allowance are determined by a historical loss rate based on the calculation of each pool's probability of default-loss given default, subject to a floor. The length of the historical period for each pool is based on the average life of the pool. The historical loss rates are all supplemented with consideration of economic conditions and portfolio trends. The risk characteristics of each of the identified portfolio segments are as follows: Commercial and Industrial - Borrowers may be subject to industry conditions including decreases in product demand; increase in material or other production costs that cannot be immediately recaptured in the sales or distribution cycle; interest rate increases that could have an adverse impact on profitability; non-payment of credit that has been extended under normal vendor terms for goods sold or services; and interruption related to the importing or exporting of production materials or sold products. Commercial Real Estate and Multi-Family Residential - Borrowers may be subject to potential adverse market conditions that cause a decrease in market value or lease rates; the potential for environmental impairment from events occurring on subject or neighboring properties; and obsolescence in location or function. Multi-Family Residential is also subject to adverse market conditions associated with a change in governmental or personal funding sources for tenants; over supply of units in a specific region; a shift in population; and reputational risks. Construction and Land Development risks include slower absorption than anticipated on speculative projects; deterioration in market conditions that may impact a project's value; unforeseen costs not considered in the original construction budget; or any other factors that may impact the completion or success of the project. Agri-business and Agricultural - Borrowers may be subject to adverse market or weather conditions including changes in local or foreign demand; lower yields than anticipated; political or other impact on storage, distribution or use; foreign trade policies including tariffs; and exposure to increasing commodity prices which result in higher production, distribution or exporting costs. Other Commercial - Borrowers may be subject to an interruption in the flow of funds to states and other political subdivisions for the purpose of debt repayments on loans held by the Bank. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Consumer 1-4 Family Mortgage - Borrowers may be subject to adverse employment conditions in the local economy leading to increased default rates; decreased market values from oversupply in a geographic area; and impact to the borrowers' ability to maintain payments in the event of incremental rate increases on adjustable rate mortgages. Other Consumer - Borrowers may be subject to adverse employment conditions in the local economy which may lead to higher default rates; and decreases in the value of underlying collateral. A loan is individually analyzed for specific allocation when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Allocations are analyzed individually or in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as all classes of consumer 1-4 family and other consumer loans, and individually for all classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multi-family, agribusiness and agricultural and other commercial loans. The Company analyzes commercial loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. This analysis is performed on a quarterly basis for Special Mention, Substandard and Doubtful grade loans and annually on Pass grade loans over $250,000. Factors considered by management in determining individual evaluation include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as individually evaluated. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. If a loan is individually evaluated, a portion of the allowance may be allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral less anticipated costs to sell. All classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, agribusiness and agricultural, other commercial, consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans and other consumer loans that become delinquent beyond 90 days are analyzed and a charge-off is taken when it is determined that the underlying collateral, if any, is not sufficient to offset the indebtedness. Loans, for which the terms have been modified for borrowers experiencing financial difficulties and a concession has been granted that could materially change the Company's expected future cash flows, are classified as individually evaluated and may be either accruing or non-accruing. Modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties on nonaccrual status follow the same policy as described above for other loans. Individual evaluation for modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty is measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception or at discounted collateral value for collateral dependent loans. Due to the imprecise nature of estimating the allowance for credit losses, the Company's allowance for credit losses includes an immaterial unallocated component. The unallocated component of the allowance for credit losses incorporates the Company's judgmental determination of potential expected losses that may not be fully reflected in other allocations. As a practical expedient, the Company has elected to disclose accrued interest separately from loan principal balances on the consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, when a loan is placed on non-accrual, interest payments are reversed through interest income. For off balance sheet credit exposures outlined in the ASC at 326-20-30-11, it is the Company's position that nearly all of the unfunded amounts on lines of credit are unconditionally cancellable, and therefore not subject to having a liability recorded. Investments in Limited Partnerships: The Company enters into and invests in limited partnerships in order to invest in affordable housing projects to support Community Reinvestment Act activities and secondarily to obtain available tax benefits. The Company also invests in Small Business Investment Company Program funds. The Company is a limited partner in these investments and, as such, the Company is not involved in the management or operation of such investments. These investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the Company records its share of the partnership’s earnings or losses in its income statement and adjusts the carrying amount of the investments on the consolidated balance sheet. These investments are evaluated for impairment when events indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The investments recorded at December 31, 2022 and 2021 were $12.2 million and $9.4 million, respectively and are included with other assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The Company also has a commitment to fund an additional $3.9 million at December 31, 2022 in six of the limited partnerships compared to $2.2 million in five of the limited partnerships at December 31, 2021, which is included with other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Foreclosed Assets: Assets acquired through loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. If fair value declines, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Costs incurred after acquisition are expensed. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the balance of other real estate owned was $100,000 and $196,000, respectively, and is included with other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. Land, Premises and Equipment, Net: Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the useful lives of the assets. Premises and improvements assets have useful lives between 5 and 40 years. Equipment and furniture assets have useful lives between 3 and 7 years. Loan Servicing Rights: Servicing rights are recognized separately when they are acquired through sales of loans. When mortgage loans are sold, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in mortgage banking income. Fair value is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans. The amortization of servicing rights is netted against mortgage banking income. Servicing fees were $1.2 million for the years ended 2022, 2021 and 2020. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material. Servicing rights are evaluated for impairment based upon the fair value of the rights as compared to carrying amount. Impairment is determined by stratifying rights into groupings based on predominant risk characteristics, such as loan type, term and interest rate. Any impairment of a grouping is reported as a valuation allowance, to the extent that fair value is less than the carrying amount. If the Company later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Changes in the valuation allowance are reported with mortgage banking income on the income statement. The fair values of servicing rights are subject to significant fluctuations as a result of changes in estimated and actual prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. The carrying value of mortgage servicing rights, which is included with other assets in the consolidated balance sheet, was $2.7 million and $2.4 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Mortgage loans serviced for others are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The unpaid principal balances of these loans were $364.3 million and $375.4 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Custodial escrow balances maintained in connection with serviced loans were $1.7 million at year end 2022 and 2021. Servicing fee income (loss), which is included in loan and service fees on the income statement, is recorded for fees earned for servicing loans. Fees earned for servicing loans are based on a contractual percentage of the outstanding principal amount of the loan and are recorded as income when earned. Transfers of Financial Assets: Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales, when control over the assets has been relinquished. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when the assets have been isolated from the Company, the transferee obtains the right (free of conditions that constrain it from taking advantage of that right) to pledge or exchange the transferred assets and the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Mortgage Banking Derivatives: Commitments to fund mortgage loans (interest rate locks) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of these mortgage loans are accounted for as free-standing derivatives. Fair values of these mortgage derivatives are estimated based on changes in mortgage interest rates from the date the interest on the loan is locked. The Company enters into forward commitments for the future delivery of mortgage loans when interest rate locks are entered into, in order to hedge the change in interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans. Changes in fair values of these derivatives are included in mortgage banking income. Interest Rate Swap Derivatives: The Company offers a derivative product to certain creditworthy commercial banking customers. This product allows the commercial banking customers to enter into an agreement with the Company to swap a variable rate loan to a fixed rate. These derivative products are designed to reduce, eliminate or modify the borrower’s interest rate exposure. The extension of credit incurred in connection with these derivative products is subject to the same approval and underwriting standards as traditional credit products. The Company limits its risk exposure by simultaneously entering into a similar, offsetting swap agreement with a separate, well-capitalized and highly rated counterparty previously approved by the Company’s Asset Liability Committee. By using these interest rate swap arrangements, the Company is also better insulated from the interest rate risk associated with underwriting fixed-rate loans and is better able to meet customer demand for fixed rate loans. These derivative contracts are not designated against specific assets or liabilities and, therefore, do not qualify for hedge accounting. The derivatives are recorded as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in non-interest income for both the commercial banking customer swaps and the related offsetting swaps. The fair value of the derivative instruments incorporates a consideration of credit risk (in accordance with ASC 820), resulting in some potential volatility in earnings each period. The notional amount of the combined interest rate swaps with customers and counterparties at December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $760.5 million and $796.0 million, respectively. The fair value of the interest rate swap asset was $36.9 million and $14.3 million and the fair value of the interest rate swap liability was $36.9 million and $14.3 million at December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The Company was a party in risk participation transactions of interest rate swaps. There were no total notional swaps at December 31, 2022 compared to $4.6 million at December 31, 2021. Bank Owned Life Insurance: At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company owned $102.5 million and $91.1 million, respectively, of life insurance policies on certain officers to provide a life insurance benefit for these officers. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company also owned $5.9 million and $6.6 million, respectively, of variable life insurance on certain officers related to a deferred compensation plan. Bank owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, i.e., the cash surrender value adjusted for other changes or other amounts due that are probable at settlement. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: All goodwill on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet resulted from business combinations prior to January 1, 2009 and represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of acquired tangible assets and liabilities and identifiable intangible assets. Goodwill is not amortized, but assessed at least annually for impairment and any such impairment would be recognized in the period identified. FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank Stock: FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank stock are carried at cost in other assets, classified as a restricted security and are periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recoverability of par value. Both cash and stock dividends are reported as income. Long-term Assets: Premises and equipment, and other long-term assets are reviewed for impairment when events indicate their carrying amount may not be recoverable from future undiscounted cash flows. If impaired, the assets are recorded at fair value. There was no such impairment identified for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Benefit Plans: The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan, which covered substantially all employees until the plan was frozen effective April 1, 2000. Funding of the plan equals or exceeds the minimum funding requirement determined by the actuary. Pension expense is the net of interest cost, return on plan assets and amortization of gains and losses not immediately recognized. Benefits are based on years of service and compensation levels. The Company maintains a 401(k) profit sharing plan for all employees meeting certain age and service requirements. The Company contributions are based upon the percentage of budgeted net income earned during the year. An employee deferred compensation plan is available to certain employees with returns based on investments in mutual funds. The Company maintains a directors’ deferred compensation plan. Effective January 1, 2003, the directors’ deferred compensation plan was amended to restrict the deferral to be in stock only and deferred directors’ fees are included in equity. The Company acquires shares on the open market and records such shares as treasury stock. Revenue Recognition: All of the Company’s revenue from contracts with customers in the scope of ASC 606 is recognized within noninterest income. The following is a description of principal activities from which we generate revenue. Revenues are recognized as the Company satisfies its obligations with our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration that we expect to receive in exchange for those services. Wealth advisory fees The Company provides wealth advisory services to its customers and earns fees from its contracts with trust customers to manage assets for investment and/or to transact on their accounts. These fees are primarily earned over time as the Company provides the contracted monthly, quarterly, or annual services and are generally assessed based on a tiered scale of the market value of assets under management (AUM) at month-end. Fees that are transaction based, including trade execution services, are recognized at the point in time that the transaction is executed. Other related services, such as escrow accounts that are based on a fixed schedule, are recognized when the services are rendered. Investment brokerage services The Company provides investment brokerage services through a full service brokerage and investment and advisory firm, Cetera Investment Services LLC (“Cetera”). The Company receives commissions from Cetera on a monthly basis based upon customer activity for the month. The fees are recognized monthly and a receivable is recorded until commissions are generally paid by the 5th business day of the following month. Because the Company (i) acts as an agent in arranging the relationship between the customer and the Cetera and (ii) does not control the services to the customers, investment brokerage service fees are presented net of Cetera’s related costs. Service charges on deposit accounts The Company earns fees from its deposit customers for transaction-based, account maintenance, and overdraft services. Transaction-based fees, which include services such as ATM use fees, stop payment charges, statement rendering, and ACH fees, are recognized at the time the transaction is executed as that is the point in time the Company fulfills the customer’s request. Account maintenance fees, which relate primarily to monthly maintenance, are earned over the course of a month, representing the period over which the Company satisfies the performance obligation. Overdraft fees are recognized at the point in time that the overdraft occurs. Service charges on deposits are withdrawn from the customer’s balance. Interchange income The Company provides the ability to transact on certain deposit accounts through the use of debit cards by outsourcing the services through third party service providers. Performance obligations are met on a transactional basis and income is recognized monthly based on transaction type and volume. Under the accounting standards in effect in the prior period, revenue was previously recognized net of the third party’s costs. Under ASC 606, fees from interchange income related to its customers use of debit cards will be reported gross in loan and service fees under noninterest income. The cost of using third party providers for these interchange services are reported in data processing fees and supplies under noninterest expense. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Gain on sale of other real estate owned ("OREO") financed by seller On occasion, the Company underwrites a loan to purchase property owned by the Company. Under ASC 606, 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 OREO 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 the sale, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain (loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present. Debit card incentive rebates The Company receives incentive rebates based on debit card transaction volume. Performance obligations are met on a transactional basis and income is recognized monthly based on transaction volume. Under ASC 606, these rebates related to debit card transaction volume are reported as a contra expense in data processing fees and supplies under noninterest expense. Stock Based Compensation: Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant adjusted for the present value of expected dividends is used for restricted stock awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. Certain of the restricted stock awards are performance based, as more fully discussed in Note 14 – Stock Based Compensation. Income Taxes: Annual consolidated federal and state income tax returns are filed by the Company. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Income tax expense is recorded based on the amount of taxes due on its tax return plus net deferred taxes computed based upon the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities, using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is more likely of being realized on examination than not. For tax positions not meeting the “more likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded. The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments: Financial instruments include credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and standby letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded. The fair value of standby letters of credit is recorded as a liability during the commitment period. Earnings Per Common Share: Basic earnings per common share is net income divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options, restricted stock awards and warrants. Earnings and dividends per share are restated for all stock splits and dividends through the date of issue of the financial statements. The common shares included in treasury stock for 2022 and 2021 were 475,902 and 476,816 shares, respectively. Common stock that has been purchased under the directors’ deferred compensation plan, described above, is included in the treasury stock total and represented 186,801 and 187,715 shares of treasury stock as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Because these shares are held in trust for the participants, NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) they are treated as outstanding when computing the weighted-average common shares outstanding for the calculation of both basic and diluted earnings per share. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company repurchased 289,101 of its common shares at a weighted average price of $34.63 per share. Treasury stock is carried at cost. Comprehensive Income (Loss): Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, reclassification adjustments for securities transferred to held-to-maturity, reclassification adjustments for gains on the sale of available-for-sale securities and changes in the funded status of the pension plan, which are also recognized as separate components of equity. Loss Contingencies: Loss contingencies, including claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business, are recorded as liabilities when the likelihood of loss is probable and an amount or range of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Bank discovered potentially fraudulent activity by a former treasury management client involving multiple banks. The former client subsequently filed several related bankruptcy cases, captioned In re Interlogic Outsourcing, Inc., et al., which are pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan. On April 27, 2021, the bankruptcy court entered an order approving an amended plan of liquidation, which was filed by the former client, other debtors and bankruptcy plan proponents, and approving the consolidation of the assets in the aforementioned cases under the Khan IOI Consolidated Estate Trust. On August 9, 2021, the liquidating trustee for the bankruptcy estates filed a complaint against the Bank and the Company, and agreed to stay prosecution of the action through August 31, 2022. The original complaint focused on a series of business transactions among the client, related entities and the Bank, which the liquidating trustee alleged are voidable under applicable federal bankruptcy and state law. The complaint also addressed treatment of the Bank's claims filed in the bankruptcy cases. On August 31, 2022, the trustee filed his amended complaint against the former client, the Bank, the Company, four officers of the Bank and one independent director of the Bank. The amended complaint alleges that the former client engaged in a check kiting scheme involving multiple banks. The amended complaint alleges that a series of business transactions among the client, his related entities and the Bank are voidable under applicable bankruptcy and state laws. The amended complaint also alleges that the Bank, the Company and the five individual bank representatives who are named as defendants violated various federal and state laws in assisting the former client in his check kiting scheme. On October 26, 2022, the trustee filed his second amended complaint which was virtually identical to his amended complaint. On January 5, 2023, the Bank, the Company and the five individual bank representatives filed motions to dismiss the second amended complaint. The motions are being briefed and will then be considered by the court. Based on current information, we have determined that a material loss is neither probable nor estimable at this time, and the Bank, the Company and the five individual Bank representatives who are named as defendants intend to vigorously defend themselves against all allegations asserted in this amended complaint. Restrictions on Cash: The Federal Reserve Bank eliminated the reserve requirement for all depository institutions in March of 2020. Therefore, the Company was not required to have cash on hand or on deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank to meet regulatory reserve and clearing requirements at December 31, 2022 and 2021. Dividend Restriction: Banking regulations require maintaining certain capital levels and may limit the dividends paid by the Bank to the Company or by the Company to its stockholders. These restrictions currently pose no practical limit on the ability of the Bank or Company to pay dividends at historical levels. Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 5 - Fair Value. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Operating Segments: The Company’s chief decision-makers monitor and evaluate financial performance on a Company-wide basis. All of the Company’s financial service operations are similar and considered by management to be aggregated into one reportable operating segment. While the Company has assigned certain management responsibilities by region and business-line, the Company’s chief decision-makers monitor and evaluate financial performance on a Company-wide basis. The majority of the Company’s revenue is from the business of banking and the Company’s assigned regions have similar economic characteristics, products, services and customers. Accordingly, all of the Company’s operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment. Newly Issued Accounting Standards: On March 12, 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (ASC 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting." ASC 848 contains optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contract modifications and hedging relationships, subject to meeting certain criteria, that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The Company has formed a cross-functional project team to lead the transition from LIBOR to a planned adoption of reference rates which could include Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), amongst others. The Company has identified certain loans that renewed prior to 2021 and obtained updated reference rate language at the time of the renewal. Additionally, management is utilizing the timeline guidance published by the Alternative Reference Rates Committee to develop and achieve internal milestones during this transitional period. The Company's policy is to adhere to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association 2020 IBOR Fallbacks Protocol that was released on October 23, 2020. The Company discontinued the use of new LIBOR-based loans by December 31, 2021, according to regulatory guidelines. The Company is working to transition LIBOR-based loans to an alternative reference rate before June 30, 2023. On December 22, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, "Reference Rate Reform (ASC 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848", which definitively provided a sunset date of December 31, 2024 for the relief guidance allowed under Topic 848. The ASU was effective immediately upon issuance. The Company adopted the LIBOR transition relief allowed under this standard, and does not expect final adoption to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. On March 28, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-01, "Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815): Fair Value Hedging - Portfolio Layer Method." ASC 815 currently permits only prepayable financial assets and one or more beneficial interests secured by a portfolio of prepayable financial instruments to be included in a last-of-layer closed portfolio. The amendment in this update allows nonrepayable financial assets to also be included in a closed portfolio hedged using the portfolio layer method. That expanded scope permits an entity to apply the same portfolio hedging method to both prepayable and nonprepayable financial assets, thereby allowing consistent accounting for similar hedges. The guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. On March 31, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (ASC 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings (TDRs) and Vintage Disclosures." The guidance amends ASC 326 to eliminate the accounting guidance for TDR's by creditors, while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancing and restructuring activities by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. Specifically, rather than applying TDR recognition and measurement guidance, creditors will determine whether a modification results in a new loan or continuation of an existing loan. These amendments are intended to enhance existing disclosure requirements and introduce new requirements related to certain modifications of receivables made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. Additionally, the amendments to ASC 326 require that an entity disclose current-period gross write-offs by year of origination within the vintage disclosures, which requires that an entity disclose the amortized cost basis of financing receivables by credit quality indicator and and class of financing receivable by year of origination. The guidance is only for entities that have adopted the amendments in update 2016-13 for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption using prospective application, including adoption in an interim period where the guidance should be applied as of the beginning of the fiscal year, is permitted. The Company elected to early adopt the provisions of the ASU related to modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the second quarter of 2022, with retrospective application to January 1, 2022. Adoption of this portion of the standard did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the vintage disclosure provisions of ASU 2022-02 on its disclosures; however, the Company does not expect the adoption of this portion of the standard to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued) Newly Proposed Accounting Standards On August 22, 2022, the FASB released a proposed ASU, "Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method (a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force)." The amendments in this proposed update would permit reporting entities to account for their tax equity investments, regardless of the program from which the tax credits are received, using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, an entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the income tax credits and other income tax benefits received and recognizes the net amortization and income tax credits and other income tax benefits in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). A reporting entity would make an accounting policy election to apply the proportional amortization method on a tax-credit-program-by-tax-credit-program basis rather than to apply the proportional amortization method at the reporting entity level or to individual investments. The proposal would require specific disclosures for all tax equity investments in a program to which an entity has elected to apply the proportional amortization method. The proposed amendments call for application on a modified prospective or a retrospective basis. The proposed ASU includes an effective date for fiscal years, and interim fiscal periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2023. The Company plans to assess the impact of the proposed amendments on the consolidated financial statements once the final ASU is issued. On October 6, 2022, the FASB released a proposed ASU, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures." The amendments in this proposed update would improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses on an interim and annual basis. Significant expense categories and amounts subject to disclosure would be derived from expenses that are (1) regularly reported to an entity's chief operating decision-maker (CODM) and (2) included in a segment's reported measure of profit or loss. Public entities would also be required to disclose an amount for other segment items by reportable segment and a description of composition. The other segment items category is the difference between segment revenue less the significant expenses disclosed under the significant expense principle and each reported measure of segment profit or loss. The amendment would also require all annual disclosures about a reportable segment's profit or loss and assets currently required by Topic 280 to be disclosed for interim periods. Additionally, the proposed amendments would also require the disclosure of the name and title of the CODM. The proposed amendments call for retrospective application. The proposed ASU does not yet include an effective date. The Company plans to assess the impact of the proposed amendments on the consolidated financial statements once the final ASU is issued. Reclassifications: Certain amounts appearing in the financial statements and notes thereto for prior periods have been reclassified to conform with the current presentation. The reclassifications had no effect on net income or stockholders’ equity as previously reported.

The consolidated financial statements include Lakeland Financial Corporation (the “Holding Company”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Lake City Bank (the “Bank”) and LCB Risk Management, Inc., together referred to as (the “Company”). On December 18, 2006, LCB Investments II, Inc. was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank incorporated in Nevada to manage a portion of the Bank’s investment portfolio beginning in 2007. On December 21, 2006, LCB Funding, Inc., a real estate investment trust incorporated in Maryland, was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of LCB Investments II, Inc. On December 28, 2012, LCB Risk Management, Inc., a captive insurance company incorporated in Nevada, was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Holding Company. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

The Company provides financial services through the Bank, a full-service commercial bank with 52 branch offices in fifteen counties in Northern and Central Indiana. The Company provides commercial, retail, trust and investment services to its customers. Commercial products include commercial loans and technology-driven solutions to meet commercial customers’ treasury management needs such as mobile business banking and online treasury management services. Retail banking clients are provided a wide array of traditional retail banking services, including lending, deposit and investment services. Retail lending programs are focused on mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit and traditional retail installment loans. The Company provides credit card services to retail and commercial customers through its retail card program and merchant processing activity. The Company provides wealth advisory and trust clients with traditional personal and corporate trust services. The Company also provides retail brokerage services, including an array of financial and investment products such as annuities and life insurance. Other financial instruments, which represent potential concentrations of credit risk, include deposit accounts in other financial institutions.

For securities in an unrealized loss position, management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the Company evaluates whether the decline in fair value has resulted from credit losses or other factors. In making this assessment, management considers the extent to which fair value is less than amortized cost, nature of the security, the underlying collateral, and the financial condition of the issuer, among other factors. If this assessment indicates a credit loss exists, the present value of cash flows expected to be collected from the security are compared to the amortized cost basis of the security. If the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis, a credit loss exists and a valuation allowance for securities losses is recorded for the credit loss, limited by the amount that the fair value is less than the

A portion of the municipal bond portfolio is classified as held-to-maturity. The Company measures expected credit losses on investment securities held-to-maturity on a collective basis by major security type with each type sharing similar risk characteristics and considers historical credit loss information that is adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company considers (1) issuer bond ratings, (2) historical loss rates for given bond ratings, (3) the financial condition of the issuer, and (4) whether issuers continue to make timely principal and interest payments under the contractual terms of the securities. Historical loss rates associated with securities having similar grades as those in the Company's portfolio have been insignificant. After completing this assessment, the Company determined any credit losses as of December 31, 2022 were not material to the consolidated financial statements.

Interest income is reported on the interest method and includes amortization of net deferred loan fees and costs over the loan term. All classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multi-family residential, agri-business and agricultural, other commercial and consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans for which collateral is insufficient to cover all principal and accrued interest are reclassified as nonaccrual loans, on or before the date when the loan becomes 90 days delinquent. When a loan is classified as a nonaccrual loan, interest on the loan is no longer accrued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed and interest income is subsequently recorded on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method. Accrual status is resumed when all contractually due payments are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. Other consumer loans are not placed on a nonaccrual status since these loans are charged-off when they have been delinquent from 90 to 180 days, and when the related collateral, if any, is not sufficient to offset the indebtedness. Nonaccrual loans and loans past due 90 days still on accrual include both smaller balance homogeneous loans that are collectively evaluated and individually analyzed loans.

The allowance for credit losses is a valuation allowance to provide for expected credit losses. Losses are charged against the allowance when management believes that the principal is uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. Allocations of the allowance are made for specific loans and for pools of similar types of loans, although the entire allowance is available for any loan that, in management's judgment, should be charged against the allowance. A provision for credit losses is taken based on management's ongoing evaluation of the appropriate allowance balance. A formal evaluation of the adequacy of the credit loss allowance is conducted monthly. The ultimate recovery of all loans is susceptible to future market factors beyond the Company's control.

with current and forecasted economic conditions that may affect borrowers' ability to repay. Consideration is not limited to these factors although they represent the most commonly cited factors. To determine the specific allocation levels for individual credits, management considers the current valuation of collateral and the amounts and timing of expected future cash flows as the primary measures. Management also considers trends in adversely classified loans based upon an ongoing review of those credits. With respect to pools of similar loans, an appropriate level of general allowance is determined by portfolio segment using a probability of default-loss given default ("PD/LGD") model, subject to a floor. A default can be triggered by one of several different asset quality factors, including past due status, nonaccrual status, material modification to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty or if the loan has had a charge-off. This PD is then combined with a LGD derived from historical charge-off data to construct a loss rate. This loss rate is then supplemented with adjustments for reasonable and supportable forecasts of relevant economic indicators, particularly the unemployment rate forecast from the Federal Open Market Committee's Summary of Economic Projections, as well as portfolio trends based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These environmental factors include consideration of portfolio trends and conditions; industry conditions; and effects of changes in credit concentrations. It is also possible that these factors could include social, political, economic, and terrorist events or activities. All of these factors are susceptible to change, which may be significant. As a result of this detailed process, the allowance results in two forms of allocations, specific and general. These two components represent the total allowance for credit losses deemed adequate to cover expected losses within the loan portfolio.

Commercial loans are subject to a dual standardized grading process administered by the credit administration function. These grade assignments are performed independent of each other, and a consensus is reached by credit administration and the loan officer. Specific allowances are established in cases where management has identified significant conditions or circumstances related to an individual credit that indicate it should be evaluated on an individual basis. Considerations with respect to specific allocations for these individual credits include, but are not limited to, the following: (a) the sufficiency of the customer's cash flow or net worth to repay the loan; (b) the adequacy of the discounted value of collateral relative to the loan balance; (c) whether the loan has been criticized in a regulatory examination; (d) whether the loan is nonperforming; (e) any other reasons the ultimate collectability of the loan may be in question; or (f) any unique loan characteristics that require special monitoring.

Allocations are also applied to categories of loans considered not to be individually analyzed, but for which the rate of loss is expected to be consistent with or greater than historical averages. Such allocations are based on past loss experience and information about specific borrower situations and estimated collateral values. These general pooled loan allocations are performed for portfolio segments of commercial and industrial; commercial real estate, multi-family, and construction; agri-business and agricultural; other commercial loans; and consumer 1-4 family mortgage and other consumer loans. General allocations of the allowance are determined by a historical loss rate based on the calculation of each pool's probability of default-loss given default, subject to a floor. The length of the historical period for each pool is based on the average life of the pool. The historical loss rates are all supplemented with consideration of economic conditions and portfolio trends. The risk characteristics of each of the identified portfolio segments are as follows:

Commercial and Industrial - Borrowers may be subject to industry conditions including decreases in product demand; increase in material or other production costs that cannot be immediately recaptured in the sales or distribution cycle; interest rate increases that could have an adverse impact on profitability; non-payment of credit that has been extended under normal vendor terms for goods sold or services; and interruption related to the importing or exporting of production materials or sold products.

Commercial Real Estate and Multi-Family Residential - Borrowers may be subject to potential adverse market conditions that cause a decrease in market value or lease rates; the potential for environmental impairment from events occurring on subject or neighboring properties; and obsolescence in location or function. Multi-Family Residential is also subject to adverse market conditions associated with a change in governmental or personal funding sources for tenants; over supply of units in a specific region; a shift in population; and reputational risks. Construction and Land Development risks include slower absorption than anticipated on speculative projects; deterioration in market conditions that may impact a project's value; unforeseen costs not considered in the original construction budget; or any other factors that may impact the completion or success of the project.

A loan is individually analyzed for specific allocation when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Allocations are analyzed individually or in total for smaller-balance loans of similar nature such as all classes of consumer 1-4 family and other consumer loans, and individually for all classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multi-family, agribusiness and agricultural and other commercial loans. The Company analyzes commercial loans individually by classifying the loans as to credit risk. This analysis is performed on a quarterly basis for Special Mention, Substandard and Doubtful grade loans and annually on Pass grade loans over $250,000. Factors considered by management in determining individual evaluation include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as individually evaluated. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. If a loan is individually evaluated, a portion of the allowance may be allocated so that the loan is reported, net, at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s existing rate or at the fair value of collateral less anticipated costs to sell. All classes of commercial and industrial, commercial real estate and multifamily residential, agribusiness and agricultural, other commercial, consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans and other consumer loans that become delinquent beyond 90 days are analyzed and a charge-off is taken when it is determined that the underlying collateral, if any, is not sufficient to offset the indebtedness.

Loans, for which the terms have been modified for borrowers experiencing financial difficulties and a concession has been granted that could materially change the Company's expected future cash flows, are classified as individually evaluated and may be either accruing or non-accruing. Modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulties on nonaccrual status follow the same policy as described above for other loans. Individual evaluation for modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty is measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s effective rate at inception or at discounted collateral value for collateral dependent loans.

Due to the imprecise nature of estimating the allowance for credit losses, the Company's allowance for credit losses includes an immaterial unallocated component. The unallocated component of the allowance for credit losses incorporates the Company's judgmental determination of potential expected losses that may not be fully reflected in other allocations. As a practical expedient, the Company has elected to disclose accrued interest separately from loan principal balances on the consolidated balance sheet. Additionally, when a loan is placed on non-accrual, interest payments are reversed through interest income.

The Company enters into and invests in limited partnerships in order to invest in affordable housing projects to support Community Reinvestment Act activities and secondarily to obtain available tax benefits. The Company also invests in Small Business Investment Company Program funds. The Company is a limited partner in these investments and, as such, the Company is not involved in the management or operation of such investments. These investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the Company records its share of the partnership’s earnings or losses in its income statement and adjusts the carrying amount of the investments on the consolidated balance sheet. These investments are evaluated for impairment when events indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The investments recorded at December 31, 2022 and 2021 were $12.2 million and $9.4 million, respectively and are included with other assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The Company also has a commitment to fund an additional $3.9 million at December 31, 2022 in six of the limited partnerships compared to $2.2 million in five of the limited partnerships at December 31, 2021, which is included with other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

Assets acquired through loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. If fair value declines, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Costs incurred after acquisition are expensed. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the balance of other real estate owned was $100,000 and $196,000, respectively, and is included with other assets on the consolidated balance sheet.

Servicing rights are recognized separately when they are acquired through sales of loans. When mortgage loans are sold, servicing rights are initially recorded at fair value with the income statement effect recorded in mortgage banking income. Fair value is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. All classes of servicing assets are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans. The amortization of servicing rights is netted against mortgage banking income. Servicing fees were $1.2 million for the years ended 2022, 2021 and 2020. Late fees and ancillary fees related to loan servicing are not material.

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

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

Commitments to fund mortgage loans (interest rate locks) to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of these mortgage loans are accounted for as free-standing derivatives. Fair values of these mortgage derivatives are estimated based on changes in mortgage interest rates from the date the interest on the loan is locked. The Company enters into forward commitments for the future delivery of mortgage loans when interest rate locks are entered into, in order to hedge the change in interest rates resulting from its commitments to fund the loans. Changes in fair values of these derivatives are included in mortgage banking income.

The Company offers a derivative product to certain creditworthy commercial banking customers. This product allows the commercial banking customers to enter into an agreement with the Company to swap a variable rate loan to a fixed rate. These derivative products are designed to reduce, eliminate or modify the borrower’s interest rate exposure. The extension of credit incurred in connection with these derivative products is subject to the same approval and underwriting standards as traditional credit products. The Company limits its risk exposure by simultaneously entering into a similar, offsetting swap agreement with a separate, well-capitalized and highly rated counterparty previously approved by the Company’s Asset Liability Committee. By using these interest rate swap arrangements, the Company is also better insulated from the interest rate risk associated with underwriting fixed-rate loans and is better able to meet customer demand for fixed rate loans. These derivative contracts are not designated against specific assets or liabilities and, therefore, do not qualify for hedge accounting. The derivatives are recorded as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in non-interest income for both the commercial banking customer swaps and the related offsetting swaps. The fair value of the derivative instruments incorporates a consideration of credit risk (in accordance with ASC 820), resulting in some potential volatility in earnings each period.

At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company owned $102.5 million and $91.1 million, respectively, of life insurance policies on certain officers to provide a life insurance benefit for these officers. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company also owned $5.9 million and $6.6 million, respectively, of variable life insurance on certain officers related to a deferred compensation plan. Bank owned life insurance is recorded at the amount that can be realized under the insurance contract at the balance sheet date, i.e., the cash surrender value adjusted for other changes or other amounts due that are probable at settlement.

The Company has a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan, which covered substantially all employees until the plan was frozen effective April 1, 2000. Funding of the plan equals or exceeds the minimum funding requirement determined by the actuary. Pension expense is the net of interest cost, return on plan assets and amortization of gains and losses not immediately recognized. Benefits are based on years of service and compensation levels.

The Company provides wealth advisory services to its customers and earns fees from its contracts with trust customers to manage assets for investment and/or to transact on their accounts. These fees are primarily earned over time as the Company provides the contracted monthly, quarterly, or annual services and are generally assessed based on a tiered scale of the market value of assets under management (AUM) at month-end. Fees that are transaction based, including trade execution services, are recognized at the point in time that the transaction is executed. Other related services, such as escrow accounts that are based on a fixed schedule, are recognized when the services are rendered.

The Company provides investment brokerage services through a full service brokerage and investment and advisory firm, Cetera Investment Services LLC (“Cetera”). The Company receives commissions from Cetera on a monthly basis based upon customer activity for the month. The fees are recognized monthly and a receivable is recorded until commissions are generally paid by the 5th business day of the following month. Because the Company (i) acts as an agent in arranging the relationship between the customer and the Cetera and (ii) does not control the services to the customers, investment brokerage service fees are presented net of Cetera’s related costs.

The Company earns fees from its deposit customers for transaction-based, account maintenance, and overdraft services. Transaction-based fees, which include services such as ATM use fees, stop payment charges, statement rendering, and ACH fees, are recognized at the time the transaction is executed as that is the point in time the Company fulfills the customer’s request. Account maintenance fees, which relate primarily to monthly maintenance, are earned over the course of a month, representing the period over which the Company satisfies the performance obligation. Overdraft fees are recognized at the point in time that the overdraft occurs. Service charges on deposits are withdrawn from the customer’s balance.

The Company provides the ability to transact on certain deposit accounts through the use of debit cards by outsourcing the services through third party service providers. Performance obligations are met on a transactional basis and income is recognized monthly based on transaction type and volume. Under the accounting standards in effect in the prior period, revenue was previously recognized net of the third party’s costs. Under ASC 606, fees from interchange income related to its customers use of debit cards will be reported gross in loan and service fees under noninterest income. The cost of using third party providers for these interchange services are reported in data processing fees and supplies under noninterest expense.

On occasion, the Company underwrites a loan to purchase property owned by the Company. Under ASC 606, 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 OREO 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 the sale, the Company adjusts the transaction price and related gain (loss) on sale if a significant financing component is present.

Compensation cost is recognized for stock options and restricted stock awards issued to employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black-Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant adjusted for the present value of expected dividends is used for restricted stock awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period. Certain of the restricted stock awards are performance based, as more fully discussed in Note 14 – Stock Based Compensation.

Annual consolidated federal and state income tax returns are filed by the Company. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Income tax expense is recorded based on the amount of taxes due on its tax return plus net deferred taxes computed based upon the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax basis of assets and liabilities, using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

Financial instruments include credit instruments, such as commitments to make loans and standby letters of credit, issued to meet customer financing needs. The face amount for these items represents the exposure to loss, before considering customer collateral or ability to repay. Such financial instruments are recorded when they are funded. The fair value of standby letters of credit is recorded as a liability during the commitment period.

Basic earnings per common share is net income divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common shares issuable under stock options, restricted stock awards and warrants. Earnings and dividends per share are restated for all stock splits and dividends through the date of issue of the financial statements. The common shares included in treasury stock for 2022 and 2021 were 475,902 and 476,816 shares, respectively. Common stock that has been purchased under the directors’ deferred compensation plan, described above, is included in the treasury stock total and represented 186,801 and 187,715 shares of treasury stock as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Because these shares are held in trust for the participants,

Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) includes unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, reclassification adjustments for securities transferred to held-to-maturity, reclassification adjustments for gains on the sale of available-for-sale securities and changes in the funded status of the pension plan, which are also recognized as separate components of equity.

The Bank discovered potentially fraudulent activity by a former treasury management client involving multiple banks. The former client subsequently filed several related bankruptcy cases, captioned In re Interlogic Outsourcing, Inc., et al., which are pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan. On April 27, 2021, the bankruptcy court entered an order approving an amended plan of liquidation, which was filed by the former client, other debtors and bankruptcy plan proponents, and approving the consolidation of the assets in the aforementioned cases under the Khan IOI Consolidated Estate Trust. On August 9, 2021, the liquidating trustee for the bankruptcy estates filed a complaint against the Bank and the Company, and agreed to stay prosecution of the action through August 31, 2022. The original complaint focused on a series of business transactions among the client, related entities and the Bank, which the liquidating trustee alleged are voidable under applicable federal bankruptcy and state law. The complaint also addressed treatment of the Bank's claims filed in the bankruptcy cases.

On August 31, 2022, the trustee filed his amended complaint against the former client, the Bank, the Company, four officers of the Bank and one independent director of the Bank. The amended complaint alleges that the former client engaged in a check kiting scheme involving multiple banks. The amended complaint alleges that a series of business transactions among the client, his related entities and the Bank are voidable under applicable bankruptcy and state laws. The amended complaint also alleges that the Bank, the Company and the five individual bank representatives who are named as defendants violated various federal and state laws in assisting the former client in his check kiting scheme. On October 26, 2022, the trustee filed his second amended complaint which was virtually identical to his amended complaint. On January 5, 2023, the Bank, the Company and the five individual bank representatives filed motions to dismiss the second amended complaint. The motions are being briefed and will then be considered by the court. Based on current information, we have determined that a material loss is neither probable nor estimable at this time, and the Bank, the Company and the five individual Bank representatives who are named as defendants intend to vigorously defend themselves against all allegations asserted in this amended complaint.

Fair values of financial instruments are estimated using relevant market information and other assumptions, as more fully disclosed in Note 5 - Fair Value. Fair value estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment regarding interest rates, credit risk, prepayments and other factors, especially in the absence of broad markets for particular items. Changes in assumptions or in market conditions could significantly affect the estimates.

The Company’s chief decision-makers monitor and evaluate financial performance on a Company-wide basis. All of the Company’s financial service operations are similar and considered by management to be aggregated into one reportable operating segment. While the Company has assigned certain management responsibilities by region and business-line, the Company’s chief decision-makers monitor and evaluate financial performance on a Company-wide basis. The majority of the Company’s revenue is from the business of banking and the Company’s assigned regions have similar economic characteristics, products, services and customers. Accordingly, all of the Company’s operations are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

On March 12, 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (ASC 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting." ASC 848 contains optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contract modifications and hedging relationships, subject to meeting certain criteria, that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The Company has formed a cross-functional project team to lead the transition from LIBOR to a planned adoption of reference rates which could include Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), amongst others. The Company has identified certain loans that renewed prior to 2021 and obtained updated reference rate language at the time of the renewal. Additionally, management is utilizing the timeline guidance published by the Alternative Reference Rates Committee to develop and achieve internal milestones during this transitional period. The Company's policy is to adhere to the International Swaps and Derivatives Association 2020 IBOR Fallbacks Protocol that was released on October 23, 2020.

The Company discontinued the use of new LIBOR-based loans by December 31, 2021, according to regulatory guidelines. The Company is working to transition LIBOR-based loans to an alternative reference rate before June 30, 2023. On December 22, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, "Reference Rate Reform (ASC 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848", which definitively provided a sunset date of December 31, 2024 for the relief guidance allowed under Topic 848. The ASU was effective immediately upon issuance. The Company adopted the LIBOR transition relief allowed under this standard, and does not expect final adoption to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

On March 28, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-01, "Derivatives and Hedging (ASC 815): Fair Value Hedging - Portfolio Layer Method." ASC 815 currently permits only prepayable financial assets and one or more beneficial interests secured by a portfolio of prepayable financial instruments to be included in a last-of-layer closed portfolio. The amendment in this update allows nonrepayable financial assets to also be included in a closed portfolio hedged using the portfolio layer method. That expanded scope permits an entity to apply the same portfolio hedging method to both prepayable and nonprepayable financial assets, thereby allowing consistent accounting for similar hedges. The guidance is effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022. The Company does not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

On March 31, 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-02, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (ASC 326): Troubled Debt Restructurings (TDRs) and Vintage Disclosures." The guidance amends ASC 326 to eliminate the accounting guidance for TDR's by creditors, while enhancing disclosure requirements for certain loan refinancing and restructuring activities by creditors when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty. Specifically, rather than applying TDR recognition and measurement guidance, creditors will determine whether a modification results in a new loan or continuation of an existing loan. These amendments are intended to enhance existing disclosure requirements and introduce new requirements related to certain modifications of receivables made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty. Additionally, the amendments to ASC 326 require that an entity disclose current-period gross write-offs by year of origination within the vintage disclosures, which requires that an entity disclose the amortized cost basis of financing receivables by credit quality indicator and and class of financing receivable by year of origination. The guidance is only for entities that have adopted the amendments in update 2016-13 for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption using prospective application, including adoption in an interim period where the guidance should be applied as of the beginning of the fiscal year, is permitted. The Company elected to early adopt the provisions of the ASU related to modifications made to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the second quarter of 2022, with retrospective application to January 1, 2022. Adoption of this portion of the standard did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the vintage disclosure provisions of ASU 2022-02 on its disclosures; however, the Company does not expect the adoption of this portion of the standard to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

On August 22, 2022, the FASB released a proposed ASU, "Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Tax Credit Structures Using the Proportional Amortization Method (a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force)." The amendments in this proposed update would permit reporting entities to account for their tax equity investments, regardless of the program from which the tax credits are received, using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, an entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the income tax credits and other income tax benefits received and recognizes the net amortization and income tax credits and other income tax benefits in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). A reporting entity would make an accounting policy election to apply the proportional amortization method on a tax-credit-program-by-tax-credit-program basis rather than to apply the proportional amortization method at the reporting entity level or to individual investments. The proposal would require specific disclosures for all tax equity investments in a program to which an entity has elected to apply the proportional amortization method. The proposed amendments call for application on a modified prospective or a retrospective basis. The proposed ASU includes an effective date for fiscal years, and interim fiscal periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2023. The Company plans to assess the impact of the proposed amendments on the consolidated financial statements once the final ASU is issued.

On October 6, 2022, the FASB released a proposed ASU, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures." The amendments in this proposed update would improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses on an interim and annual basis. Significant expense categories and amounts subject to disclosure would be derived from expenses that are (1) regularly reported to an entity's chief operating decision-maker (CODM) and (2) included in a segment's reported measure of profit or loss. Public entities would also be required to disclose an amount for other segment items by reportable segment and a description of composition. The other segment items category is the difference between segment revenue less the significant expenses disclosed under the significant expense principle and each reported measure of segment profit or loss. The amendment would also require all annual disclosures about a reportable segment's profit or loss and assets currently required by Topic 280 to be disclosed for interim periods. Additionally, the proposed amendments would also require the disclosure of the name and title of the CODM. The proposed amendments call for retrospective application. The proposed ASU does not yet include an effective date. The Company plans to assess the impact of the proposed amendments on the consolidated financial statements once the final ASU is issued.