SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2021

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

NOTE 1 — SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accounting policies of First Keystone Corporation and Subsidiary (the “Corporation”) are in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and conform to common practices within the banking industry. The more significant accounting policies follow:

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Keystone Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary, First Keystone Community Bank (the “Bank”). All significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Nature of Operations

The Corporation, headquartered in Berwick, Pennsylvania, provides a full range of banking, trust and related services through its wholly-owned Bank subsidiary and is subject to competition from other financial institutions in connection with these services. The Bank serves a customer base which includes individuals, businesses, governments, and public and institutional customers primarily located in the Northeast Region of Pennsylvania. The Bank has 18 full service offices, one loan production office, and 20 Automated Teller Machines (“ATM”) located in Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, Monroe, and Northampton counties. The Corporation must also adhere to certain federal and state banking laws and regulations and are subject to periodic examinations made by various state and federal agencies.

Segment Reporting

The Bank acts as an independent community financial services provider, and offers traditional banking and related financial services to individual, business, government, and public and institutional customers. Through its branch and ATM network, as well as online banking, the Bank offers a full array of commercial and retail financial services, including the taking of time, savings and demand deposits; the making of commercial, consumer and mortgage loans; and the providing of other financial services. The Bank also performs personal, corporate, pension and fiduciary services through its Trust Department.

Management does not separately allocate expenses, including the cost of funding loan demand, between the commercial, retail, trust and mortgage banking operations of the Corporation. As such, discrete financial information is not available and segment reporting would not be meaningful.

Significant Concentrations of Credit Risk

The majority of the Corporation’s activities involve customers located primarily in Columbia, Luzerne, Montour, Monroe, Northampton, and Lehigh counties in Pennsylvania. The types of securities in which the Corporation invests are presented in Note 2 – Securities. Credit risk as it relates to investment activities is moderated through the monitoring of ratings, geographic concentrations, etc. residing in the portfolio and the observance of minimum rating levels in the investment policy. Note 3 – Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses summarizes the types of lending in which the Corporation engages. The inherent risks associated with lending activities are mitigated by adhering to conservative underwriting practices and policies, as well as portfolio diversification and thorough monitoring of the loan portfolio. It is management’s opinion that the investment and loan portfolios were well balanced at December 31, 2021, to the extent necessary to avoid any significant concentrations of credit risk.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of these consolidated financial statements, in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of these consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant changes include the determination of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) on securities, the determination of the allowance for loan losses, and the assessment of goodwill for possible impairment.

Subsequent Events

The Corporation has evaluated events and transactions occurring subsequent to the consolidated balance sheet date of December 31, 2021, for items that should potentially be recognized or disclosed in the consolidated financial statements. The evaluation was conducted through the date these consolidated financial statements were issued. On February 23, 2022, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.28 per share for the first quarter of 2022. The dividend is payable on March 31, 2022 to shareholders of record as of March 10, 2022.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

For purposes of reporting consolidated cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and due from banks, interest-bearing deposits in other banks, and federal funds sold. The Corporation considers cash classified as interest-bearing deposits with other banks as a cash equivalent since they are represented by cash accounts essentially on a demand basis and mature within one year. Federal funds are also included as a cash equivalent because they are generally purchased and sold for one-day periods.

Time Deposits with Other Banks

Time deposits with other banks consist of fully insured certificates of deposit in other banks with maturity dates between one and five years.

Securities

The Corporation classifies its securities as either “Held-to-Maturity” or “Available-for-Sale” at the time of purchase. Securities are accounted for on a trade date basis. Debt securities are classified as Held-to-Maturity when the Corporation has the ability and positive intent to hold the securities to maturity. Securities classified as Held-to-Maturity are carried at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount to maturity.

Debt securities not classified as Held-to-Maturity are included in the Available-for-Sale category and are carried at fair value. The amount of any unrealized gain or loss, net of the effect of deferred income taxes, is reported as accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) in the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of changes in stockholders’ equity. Management’s decision to sell Available-for-Sale securities is based on changes in economic conditions controlling the sources and applications of funds, terms, availability of and yield of alternative investments, interest rate risk and the need for liquidity.

The cost of debt securities classified as Held-to-Maturity or Available-for-Sale is adjusted for amortization of premiums to the earliest call date and accretion of discounts to expected maturity. Such amortization and accretion, as well as interest and dividends, are included in interest and dividend income on securities. Realized gains and losses are included in net securities gains and losses. The cost of securities sold, redeemed or matured is based on the specific identification method.

In accordance with Accounting Standard Update 2016-01, equity securities with readily determinable fair values are stated at fair value with realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in income. Equity securities without readily determinable fair values are recorded at cost less impairment, if any.

Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment at least on a quarterly basis, and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. Securities classified as Available-for-Sale or Held-to-Maturity are generally evaluated for OTTI under Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 320, Investments - Debt and Equity Securities. In determining OTTI under the FASB ASC 320 model, management considers many factors, including (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, (3) whether the market decline was affected by macroeconomic conditions, and (4) whether the entity has the intent to sell the debt security or more likely than not will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery. The assessment of whether an other-than-temporary decline exists involves a high degree of subjectivity and judgment and is based on the information available to management at a point in time.

When OTTI occurs on debt securities, the amount of the OTTI recognized in earnings depends on whether an entity intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss. If an entity intends to sell or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period credit loss, the OTTI shall be recognized in earnings equal to the entire difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and its fair value at the balance sheet date. If an entity does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis less any current-period loss, the OTTI shall be separated into the amount representing the credit loss and the amount related to all other factors. The amount of the total OTTI related to the credit loss is determined based on the present value of cash flows expected to be collected, and the realized loss is recognized as impairment charges on securities on the consolidated statements of income. The amount of the total OTTI related to the other factors shall be recognized in other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable taxes. The previous amortized cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings becomes the new amortized cost basis of the security.

The fair market value of the equity securities tends to fluctuate with the overall equity markets as well as the trends specific to each institution. The equity securities portfolio is reviewed in a similar manner as that of the debt securities with greater emphasis placed on the length of time the market value has been less than the carrying value and the financial sector outlook. The Corporation also reviews dividend payment activities, levels of non-performing assets and loan loss reserves. The starting point for the equity analysis is the length and severity of market value decline. The realized loss is recognized as impairment charges on securities on the consolidated statements of income. The previous cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings becomes the new cost basis of the investment.

Restricted Investment in Bank Stocks

The Corporation owns restricted stock investments in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (“FHLB-Pittsburgh”) and Atlantic Community Bankers Bank (“ACBB”). These investments do not have a readily determinable fair value because their ownership is restricted and they can be sold back only to the FHLB-Pittsburgh, ACBB or to another member institution. Therefore, these investments are carried at cost. At December 31, 2021, the Corporation held $1,884,000 in stock of FHLB-Pittsburgh and $35,000 in stock of ACBB. At December 31, 2020, the Corporation held $2,212,000 in stock of FHLB-Pittsburgh and $35,000 in stock of ACBB.

Management evaluates the restricted investment in bank stocks for impairment on a quarterly basis. Management’s determination of whether these investments are impaired is based on management’s assessment of the ultimate recoverability of the cost of these investments rather than by recognizing temporary declines in value. The following factors were evaluated to determine the ultimate recoverability of the cost of the Corporation’s restricted investment in bank stocks; (i) the significance of the decline in net assets of the correspondent bank as compared to the capital stock amount for the correspondent bank and the length of time this situation has persisted; (ii) commitments by the correspondent bank to make payments required by law or regulation and the level of such payments in relation to the operating performance of the correspondent bank; (iii) the impact of legislative and regulatory changes on the institutions and, accordingly, on the customer base of the correspondent bank; and (iv) the liquidity position of the correspondent bank. Based on the analysis of these factors, management determined that no impairment charge was necessary related to the restricted investment in bank stocks during 2021 or 2020.

Loans

Net loans are stated at their outstanding recorded investment, net of deferred fees and costs, unearned income and the allowance for loan losses. Interest on loans is recognized as income over the term of each loan, generally, by the accrual method. Loan origination fees and certain direct loan origination costs have been deferred with the net amount amortized using the straight line method or the interest method over the contractual life of the related loans as an interest yield adjustment.

The loans receivable portfolio is segmented into commercial, residential and consumer loans. Commercial loans consist of the following classes: Commercial and Industrial and Commercial Real Estate.

Commercial and Industrial Lending

The Corporation originates commercial and industrial loans principally to businesses located in its primary market area and surrounding areas. These loans are used for various business purposes, which include short-term loans and lines of credit to finance machinery and equipment, inventory and accounts receivable. Generally, the maximum term for loans extended on machinery and equipment is based on the projected useful life of such machinery and equipment. Most business lines of credit are written on demand and are reviewed annually.

Commercial and industrial loans are generally secured with short-term assets; however, in many cases, additional collateral such as real estate is provided as additional security for the loan. Loan-to-value maximum thresholds have been established by the Corporation and are specific to the type of collateral. Collateral values may be determined using invoices, inventory reports, accounts receivable aging reports, business financial statements, collateral appraisals or internal evaluations, etc. Commercial and industrial loans are typically supported by personal guarantees of the borrower.

In underwriting commercial and industrial loans, an analysis is performed to evaluate the borrower’s character and capacity to repay the loan, the adequacy of the borrower’s capital and collateral, as well as the conditions affecting the borrower. Evaluation of the borrower’s past, present and future cash flows is also an important aspect of the Corporation’s analysis of the borrower’s ability to repay. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans that have been issued by the Corporation as a result of the enactment of the CARES Act in response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are included in the Corporation’s Commercial and Industrial portfolio and are underwritten pursuant to the PPP as administered by the SBA under the CARES Act. See the Coronavirus Pandemic Impact on the Loan Portfolio section on page 61 for more information regarding the Corporation’s underwriting of these loans.

Commercial and industrial loans generally present a higher level of risk than other types of loans due primarily to the effect of general economic conditions. Commercial and industrial loans are typically made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayment from cash flows from the borrower’s primary business activities. As a result, the availability of funds for the repayment of commercial and industrial loans is dependent on the success of the business itself, which in turn, is likely to be dependent upon the general economic environment.

As an addition to the commercial loans receivable portfolio, the Corporation may purchase the guaranteed portion of loans secured by the U.S. Government. The originating bank retains the unguaranteed portion of the loan. The loans are sponsored by one of the various government agencies including the SBA, United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”), and the Farm Service Agency (“FSA”). Government Guaranteed Loans ("GGLs") carry no credit risk due to an unconditional and irrevocable guarantee (which is supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government) on all principal and the balance of interest accruing through ninety days beyond the date that demand is made to the originating bank for repurchase of the loan. As of December 31, 2021, the Corporation's balance of GGLs was $3,829,000, compared to $5,128,000 at December 31, 2020.

Commercial Real Estate Lending

The Corporation engages in commercial real estate lending in its primary market area and surrounding areas. The Corporation’s commercial real estate portfolio is secured primarily by commercial retail space, commercial office buildings, residential housing and hotels. Generally, commercial real estate loans have terms that do not exceed twenty years, have loan-to-value ratios of up to eighty percent of the value of the collateral property, and are typically supported by personal guarantees of the borrowers.

In underwriting these loans, the Corporation performs a thorough analysis of the financial condition of the borrower, the borrower’s credit history, and the reliability and predictability of the cash flow generated by the property securing the loan. The value of the property is determined by either independent appraisers or internal evaluations performed by Bank officers.

Commercial real estate loans generally present a higher level of risk than residential real estate secured loans. Repayment of loans secured by commercial real estate is typically dependent upon the successful operation of the related real estate project and/or the effect of the general economic conditions on income producing properties.

Residential Real Estate Lending (Including Home Equity)

The Corporation’s residential real estate portfolio is comprised of one-to-four family residential mortgage loan originations, home equity term loans and home equity lines of credit. These loans are generated by the Corporation’s marketing efforts, its present customers, walk-in customers and referrals. These loans originate primarily within or with customers from the Corporation’s market area.

The Corporation’s one-to-four family residential mortgage originations are secured principally by properties located in its primary market area and surrounding areas. The Corporation offers fixed-rate mortgage loans with terms up to a maximum of thirty years for both permanent structures and those under construction. Loans with terms of thirty years are normally held for sale and sold without recourse; most of the residential mortgages held in the Corporation’s residential real estate portfolio have maximum terms of twenty years. Generally, the majority of the Corporation’s residential mortgage loans originate with a loan-to-value of eighty percent or less, or those with primary mortgage insurance at ninety-five percent or less. Home equity term loans are secured by the borrower’s primary residence and typically have a maximum loan-to-value of eighty percent and a maximum term of fifteen years. In general, home equity lines of credit are secured by the borrower’s primary residence with a maximum loan-to-value of eighty percent and a maximum term of twenty years.

In underwriting one-to-four family residential mortgage loans, the Corporation evaluates the borrower’s ability to make monthly payments, the borrower’s prior loan repayment history and the value of the property securing the loan. The ability and willingness to repay is assessed based upon the borrower’s employment history, current financial conditions and credit background. A majority of the properties securing residential real estate loans made by the Corporation are appraised by independent appraisers. The Corporation generally requires mortgage loan borrowers to obtain an attorney’s title opinion or title insurance and fire and property insurance, including flood insurance, if applicable.

Residential mortgage loans, home equity term loans and home equity lines of credit generally present a lower level of risk than consumer loans because they are secured by the borrower’s primary residence. Risk is increased when the Corporation is in a subordinate position, especially to another lender, for the loan collateral.

Residential mortgage loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market on an aggregate basis determined by independent pricing from appropriate federal or state agency investors. These loans are sold without recourse. Loans held for sale amounted to $6,006,000 at December 31, 2021 and $17,300,000 at December 31, 2020.

Consumer Lending

The Corporation offers a variety of secured and unsecured consumer loans, including vehicle loans, stock loans and loans secured by financial institution deposits. These loans originate primarily within or with customers from the Corporation’s market area.

Consumer loan terms vary according to the type and value of collateral and creditworthiness of the borrower. In underwriting personal loans, a thorough analysis is performed regarding the borrower’s willingness and financial ability to repay the loan as agreed. The ability and willingness to repay is assessed based upon the borrower’s employment history, current financial condition and credit background.

Consumer loans may entail greater credit risk than residential real estate loans, particularly in the case of personal loans which are unsecured or are secured by rapidly depreciable assets, such as automobiles or recreational equipment. In such cases, repossessed collateral for a defaulted personal loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation. In addition, personal loan collections are dependent on the borrower’s continuing financial stability and therefore, are more likely to be affected by adverse personal circumstances. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount which can be recovered on such loans.

Coronavirus Pandemic Impact on the Loan Portfolio

As a result of the economic impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the CARES Act was enacted in the United States on March 27, 2020. The Corporation is approved by the SBA to fund loans under the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program created as part of the CARES Act. The PPP loans have 1.00% interest rates, lender fees, two or five-year terms (depending on date of origination), and may qualify for forgiveness. These loans funded by the Corporation are subject to the terms and conditions applicable to all loans made pursuant to the PPP, as administered by the SBA under the CARES Act. The PPP calls for these loans to be fully guaranteed by the SBA. PPP loan origination fees and certain loan origination costs have been deferred with the net amount accreted using the straight line method over the contractual life of the related loans as an interest yield adjustment. If a loan is forgiven pursuant to the terms and conditions applicable to the PPP, the remaining origination fees and costs are recognized at the time of forgiveness. All PPP loans are carried in the Corporation’s Commercial and Industrial loan portfolio. As of December 31, 2021, the Corporation held 122 PPP loans in its Commercial and Industrial portfolio, which carried an aggregate balance of $4,894,000, of which 2 loans carrying an aggregate balance of $160,000 were granted during the first round of PPP issuance and 120 loans carrying an aggregate balance of $4,734,000 were granted during the second round of PPP issuance. At December 31, 2020, the Corporation held 441 PPP loans in its Commercial and Industrial portfolio which carried an aggregate balance of $22,976,000, all of which were granted during the first round of PPP issuance.

An additional provision of the CARES Act, Section 4013 provides financial institutions the option to suspend requirements to categorize certain loan modifications as Troubled Debt Restructurings (“TDRs”), as long as specific criteria are met. To qualify, the loan modifications must be made on a good-faith basis in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, must occur between March 1, 2020 and the earlier of September 30, 2021 or the termination date of the national emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic as declared by the President of the United States, and the loans must have been paid current (less than 30 days past due prior to any relief) as of December 31, 2019. In compliance with Section 4013 of the CARES Act, the Corporation has granted modification requests to defer principal and/or interest payments or modify interest rates on various loans across all portfolio segments. Of the loan modifications that have been granted in compliance with Section 4013 of the CARES Act, there was 1 loan modification still actively on deferral

carrying a balance of $9,423,000 as of December 31, 2021, compared to December 31, 2020 when there were 44 loan modifications still actively on deferral carrying an aggregate balance of $16,541,000. See page 77 for additional information regarding the Section 4013 CARES Act modifications.

Delinquent Loans

Generally, a loan is considered to be past-due when scheduled loan payments are in arrears 10 days or more. Delinquent notices are generated automatically when a loan is 10 or 15 days past-due, depending on loan type. Collection efforts continue on past-due loans that have not been brought current, when it is believed that some chance exists for improvement in the status of the loan. Past-due loans are continually evaluated with the determination for charge-off being made when no reasonable chance remains that the status of the loan can be improved.

Commercial and industrial and commercial real estate loans are charged off in whole or in part when they become sufficiently delinquent based upon the terms of the underlying loan contract and when a collateral deficiency exists. Because all or part of the contractual cash flows are not expected to be collected, the loan is considered to be impaired, and the Corporation estimates the impairment based on its analysis of the cash flows or collateral estimated at fair value less cost to sell. Should a GGL default, demand is made to the originating bank for repurchase of the loan. If the originating bank does not repurchase the loan, demand for repurchase is then made to the appropriate government agency which has provided the guarantee for the loan.

Residential real estate and consumer loans are charged off when they become sufficiently delinquent based upon the terms of the underlying loan contract and when the value of the underlying collateral is not sufficient to support the loan balance and a loss is expected. At that time, the amount of estimated collateral deficiency, if any, is charged off for loans secured by collateral, and all other loans are charged off in full. Loans with collateral are written down to the estimated fair value of the collateral less cost to sell.

Existing loans in which the borrower has declared bankruptcy are considered on a case by case basis to determine whether repayment is likely to occur (eg. reaffirmation by the borrower with demonstrated repayment ability). Otherwise, loans are charged off in full or written down to the estimated fair value of collateral less cost to sell.

Generally, a loan is classified as non-accrual and the accrual of interest on such a loan is discontinued when the contractual payment of principal or interest has become 90 days past due or management has serious doubts about further collectability of principal or interest. A loan may remain on accrual status if it is well secured (or supported by a strong guarantee) and in the process of collection. When a loan is placed on non-accrual status, unpaid interest credited to income in the current year is reversed and unpaid interest accrued in prior years is charged against interest income. Certain non-accrual loans may continue to perform; that is, payments are still being received. Generally, the payments are applied to principal. These loans remain under constant scrutiny, and if performance continues, interest income may be recorded on a cash basis based on management’s judgment regarding the collectability of principal.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is established through provisions for loan losses charged against income. Loans deemed to be uncollectible are charged against the allowance for loan losses and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level estimated by management to be adequate to absorb potential loan losses. Management’s periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is based on the Corporation’s past loan loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay (including the timing of future payments), the estimated value of any underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions, and other relevant factors. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires material estimates including the amounts and timing of future cash flows expected to be received on impaired loans that may be susceptible to significant change.

The allowance consists of specific, general and unallocated components. The specific component relates to loans that are individually classified as impaired. Select loans are not aggregated for collective impairment evaluation, as such; all loans are subject to individual impairment evaluation should the facts and circumstances pertinent to a particular loan suggest that such evaluation is necessary. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. If a loan is impaired, 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 if repayment is expected solely from collateral. TDRs are separately identified for impairment disclosures and are measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows using the loan’s contractual rate at inception. If a TDR is considered to be a collateral dependent loan, the loan may be reported at the net realizable value of the collateral. For TDRs that subsequently default, the Corporation determines the amount of reserve in accordance with the accounting policy for the allowance for loan losses.

The general component covers all other loans not identified as impaired (aside from GGLs, which do not require an allowance) and is based on historical losses and qualitative factors. The historical loss component of the allowance is determined by losses recognized by portfolio segment over an eight quarter lookback period that management has determined best represents the current credit cycle. Qualitative factors impacting each portfolio segment may include: delinquency trends, loan volume trends, Bank policy changes, management processes and oversight, economic trends (including change in consumer and business disposable incomes, unemployment and under-employment levels, and other conditions), concentrations by industry or product, internal and external loan review processes, collateral value and market conditions, and external factors including regulatory issues and competition.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the current economy, the qualitative factors related to the local/regional economy were increased by two basis points across all loan segments during the first quarter of 2020, and increased by an additional basis point across all loan segments during the second quarter of 2020. The qualitative factor relating to the impact of external factors/conditions for the Commercial Real Estate portfolio segment was increased by an additional basis point during the third quarter of 2020. The qualitative factors relating to the impact of external factors/conditions were increased by two additional basis points across all loan segments during the fourth quarter of 2020. Qualitative factors remained unchanged during the first quarter of 2021. During the second quarter of 2021, the qualitative factors related to the local/regional economy were decreased by one basis point across all loan segments, as the economy and job growth in the Corporation’s market areas demonstrated marked improvement over the prior quarter, and the qualitative factor related to collateral values was increased by one basis point for both the Commercial Real Estate and Residential Real Estate portfolio segments due to increasing market values in the real estate sector. Qualitative factors remained unchanged during the third quarter of 2021. During the fourth quarter of 2021, the qualitative factors related to external factors/conditions were increased by one basis point across all loan segments due to current economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic including increased inflation, as well as elevated unemployment levels (although improved from 2020 and early 2021) and the uncertainty of how broad the changes implemented by the Federal Reserve may be, and the qualitative factors related to collateral values were increased by one basis point across all loan segments, as collateral values have continued to artificially increase as individuals have been willing to pay above-average market prices in all sectors. Modifications granted in compliance with Section 4013 of the CARES Act were highest in the Commercial Real Estate portfolio segment, the long-term effects of which are still very unclear, as there is still economic uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in relation to this segment of the Corporation’s loan portfolio.

GGLs do not require an associated allowance for loan losses due to the underlying irrevocable and unconditional guarantee, which is supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Should a GGL default, the loan will be repurchased by the originating bank or the appropriate government agency that has provided the guarantee for the loan.

Although PPP loans do not require an associated allowance for loan losses due to the program’s call for a full guarantee by the SBA, the Corporation has taken the conservative approach and has calculated a qualitative allocation for the PPP loans under the general component of the allowance for the Commercial and Industrial portfolio.

The unallocated component of the allowance is maintained to cover uncertainties that could affect management’s estimate of probable losses. The unallocated component of the allowance reflects the margin of imprecision inherent in the underlying assumptions used in the methodologies for estimating specific and general losses in the portfolio.

A reserve for unfunded lending commitments is provided for possible credit losses on off-balance sheet credit exposures. The reserve for unfunded lending commitments represents management’s estimate of losses inherent in its unfunded loan commitments and, if necessary, is recorded in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020 the amount of the reserve for unfunded lending commitments was $177,000 and $129,000, respectively.

The Corporation is subject to periodic examination by its federal and state examiners, and may be required by such regulators to recognize additions to the allowance for loan losses based on their assessment of credit information available to them at the time of their examinations.

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Corporation will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the existing loan agreement. Under current accounting standards, the allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans is based on discounted cash flows using the loan’s contractual interest rate at inception or the net realizable value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans.

From time to time, the Corporation may agree to modify/restructure the contractual terms of a borrower's loan. The restructuring of a loan is considered a TDR if both the following conditions are met: (i) the borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, and (ii) the Corporation has granted a concession. The most common concessions granted include one or more modifications to the terms of the debt, such as (a) a reduction in the interest rate for the remaining life of the debt, (b) an extension of the maturity date at an interest rate lower than the current market rate for new debt with similar risk, (c) a temporary period of interest-only payments, and (d) a reduction in the contractual payment amount for either a short period or remaining term of the loan. A less common concession is the forgiveness of a portion of the principal.

The determination of whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties takes into account not only the current financial condition of the borrower, but also the potential financial condition of the borrower were a concession not granted. Similarly, the determination of whether a concession has been granted is subjective in nature. For example, simply extending the term of a loan at its original interest rate or even at a higher interest rate could be interpreted as a concession unless the borrower could readily obtain similar credit terms from a different lender.

Loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring are considered impaired and may or may not be placed on non-accrual status until the Corporation determines the future collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured, which generally requires that the borrower demonstrates a period of performance according to the restructured terms of six months. Any loan modifications made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic are not considered TDRs as long as the criteria set forth in Section 4013 of the CARES Act are met. See page 77 for further discussion of the Section 4013 CARES Act modifications.

The Corporation utilizes a risk grading matrix as a tool for managing credit risk in the loan portfolio and assigns an asset quality rating (risk grade) to all Commercial and Industrial, Commercial Real Estate, Residential Real Estate and Consumer borrowings. An asset quality rating is assigned using the guidance provided in the Corporation’s loan policy. Primary responsibility for assigning the asset quality rating rests with the credit department. The asset quality rating is validated periodically by both an internal and external loan review process.

The commercial loan grading system focuses on a borrower’s financial strength and performance, experience and depth of management, primary and secondary sources of repayment, the nature of the business and the outlook for the particular industry. Primary emphasis is placed on financial condition and trends. The grade also reflects current economic and industry conditions; as well as other variables such as liquidity, cash flow, revenue/earnings trends, management strengths or weaknesses, quality of financial information, and credit history.

The loan grading system for Residential Real Estate and Consumer loans focuses on the borrower’s credit score and credit history, debt-to-income ratio and income sources, collateral position and loan-to-value ratio.

Risk grade characteristics are as follows:

Risk Grade 1 – MINIMAL RISK through Risk Grade 6 – MANAGEMENT ATTENTION (Pass Grade Categories)

Risk is evaluated via examination of several attributes including but not limited to financial trends, strengths and weaknesses, likelihood of repayment when considering both cash flow and collateral, sources of repayment, leverage position, management expertise, and repayment history.

At the low-risk end of the rating scale, a risk grade of 1 - Minimal Risk is the grade reserved for loans with exceptional credit fundamentals and virtually no risk of default or loss. Loan grades then progress through escalating ratings of 2 through 6 based upon risk. Risk Grade 2 - Modest Risk are loans with sufficient cash flows; Risk Grade 3 - Average Risk are loans with key balance sheet ratios slightly above the borrower’s peers; Risk Grade 4 - Acceptable Risk are loans with key balance sheet ratios usually near the borrower’s peers, but one or more ratios may be higher; and Risk Grade 5 – Marginally Acceptable are loans with strained cash flow, increasing leverage and/or weakening markets. Risk Grade 6 - Management Attention are loans with weaknesses resulting from declining performance trends and the borrower’s cash flows may be temporarily strained. Loans in this category are performing according to terms, but present some type of potential concern.

Risk Grade 7 − SPECIAL MENTION (Non-Pass Category)

Assets in this category are adequately collateralized but have potential weaknesses which may, if not checked or corrected, weaken the asset or inadequately protect the Corporation’s credit position at some future date. The loans may constitute increased credit risk, but not to the point of justifying a classification of substandard. No loss of principal or interest is envisioned, but risk is increasing beyond that at which the loan originally would have been granted. Historically, cash flows are inconsistent; financial trends show some deterioration. Liquidity and leverage ratios are above industry averages. Financial information could be incomplete or inadequate. A Special Mention asset has potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention.

Risk Grade 8 − SUBSTANDARD (Non-Pass Category)

Generally, these assets are inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Assets so classified must have “well-defined” weaknesses that jeopardize the full liquidation of the debt.

These loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Corporation will sustain some loss if the aggregate amount of substandard assets is not fully covered by the liquidation of the collateral used as security. Substandard loans have a high probability of payment default and require more intensive supervision by Corporation management.

Risk Grade 9 − DOUBTFUL (Non-Pass Category)

Generally, loans graded doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in a substandard loan with the added factor that the weaknesses are pronounced to a point whereby the basis of current information, conditions, and values, collection or liquidation in full is deemed to be highly improbable. The possibility of loss is extremely high, but because of certain important and reasonably specific pending factors that may work to strengthen the asset, its classification is

deferred until, for example, a proposed merger, acquisition, liquidation procedure, capital injection, perfection of liens on additional collateral and/or refinancing plan is completed. Loans are graded doubtful if they contain weaknesses so serious that collection or liquidation in full is questionable.

Premises and Equipment

Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation computed principally utilizing the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recovered. Maintenance and minor repairs are charged to operations as incurred. The cost and accumulated depreciation of the premises and equipment retired or sold are eliminated from the property accounts at the time of retirement or sale, and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in current operations.

Mortgage Servicing Rights

The Corporation originates and sells real estate loans to investors in the secondary mortgage market. After the sale, the Corporation may retain the right to service these loans. The mortgage loans sold and serviced for others are not included in the consolidated balance sheets. The unpaid principal balances of mortgage loans serviced for others were $93,906,000 and $86,981,000 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. When originated mortgage loans are sold and servicing is retained, a servicing asset is capitalized based on relative fair value at the date of the sale. Servicing assets are amortized as an offset to other fees in proportion to, and over the period of, estimated net servicing income. The servicing asset is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and amounted to $367,000 at December 31, 2021 and $262,000 at December 31, 2020. The amount of servicing income earned was $228,000 and $231,000 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Amortization recognized in relation to mortgage servicing rights was $120,000 and $130,000 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Both income and amortization are included in service charges and fees on the consolidated statements of income. Gains or losses on sales of mortgage loans are recognized based on the differences between the selling price and the carrying value of the related mortgage loans sold.

Bank Owned Life Insurance

The cash surrender value of bank owned life insurance is carried as an asset, and changes in cash surrender value are recorded as non-interest income.

The Corporation entered into agreements to provide post-retirement benefits to two retired employees in the form of life insurance payable to the employee’s beneficiaries upon their death through endorsement split dollar life insurance arrangements. The Corporation’s accrued liabilities for this benefit agreement as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 which are included in other liabilities in the Corporation’s consolidated balance sheets was $56,000 and $36,000, respectively. The related (expense) income for this benefit agreement amounted to $(20,000) in 2021 and $2,000 in 2020. The expense recognized in 2021 was the result of service costs associated with the benefit agreement.

Investments in Low-Income Housing Partnerships

The Corporation is a limited partner in real estate ventures that own and operate affordable residential low-income housing apartment buildings for elderly and mentally challenged adult residents. The investments are accounted for under the cost method. Under the cost method, the Corporation recognizes tax credits as they are allocated and amortizes the initial cost of the investment over the period that the tax credits are allocated to the Corporation. The amount of tax credits allocated to the Corporation were $405,000 in 2021 and 2020, and the amortization of the investments in the limited partnerships were $371,000 and $362,000 in 2021 and 2020, respectively. During 2021, the Corporation became a limited partner in a real estate venture with an initial investment of $435,000. The new limited partnership has not begun amortizing and future contributions will be required.

Goodwill

Goodwill resulted from the acquisition of the Pocono Community Bank in November 2007 and of certain fixed and operating assets acquired and deposit liabilities assumed of the branch of another financial institution in Danville, Pennsylvania, in January 2004. Such goodwill represents the excess cost of the acquired assets relative to the assets fair value at the dates of acquisition. During the first quarter of 2008, $152,000 of liabilities related to the Pocono acquisition were recorded as a purchase accounting adjustment resulting in an increase in the excess purchase price. The amount was comprised of the finalization of severance agreements and contract terminations related to the acquisition. In accordance with current accounting standards, goodwill is not amortized. Management performs an annual evaluation for impairment. Any impairment of goodwill results in a charge to income. The Corporation periodically assesses whether events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of goodwill and other intangible assets may be impaired. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level and an impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. Management notes that the emergence of COVID-19 as a global pandemic during 2020 and throughout 2021 has resulted in significant deterioration in general economic conditions and has caused a deterioration in the environment in which the Corporation operates. The full impact to earnings in the banking industry and to the Corporation specifically, remains uncertain. The Corporation has evaluated the goodwill included in its consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2021, and has determined there was no impairment as of that date. In addition, the Corporation did not identify any impairment in 2020. No assurance can be given that future impairment tests will not result in a charge to earnings.

Foreclosed Assets Held for Resale

Real estate properties acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less cost to sell on the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis. After foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed and if fair value less cost to sell declines subsequent to foreclosure, a valuation allowance is recorded through expense. Revenues derived from and costs to maintain the assets and subsequent gains and losses on sales are included in non-interest expense on the consolidated statements of income.

Income Taxes

The Corporation accounts for income taxes in accordance with income tax accounting guidance FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes.

Current income tax accounting guidance results in two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period by applying the provisions of the enacted tax law to the taxable income or excess of deductions over revenues. The Corporation determines deferred income taxes using the liability (or balance sheet) method. Under this method, the net deferred tax asset or liability is based on the tax effects of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities, and enacted changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.

Deferred income tax expense results from changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities between periods. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of the evidence available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

The Corporation accounts for uncertain tax positions if it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be realized or sustained upon examination. The term more-likely-than-not means a likelihood of more than 50%; the terms examined and upon examination also include resolution of the related appeals or litigation processes, if any. A tax position that meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold is initially and subsequently measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. The determination of whether or not a tax position has met the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold considers the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date and is subject to management’s judgment.

The Corporation recognizes interest and penalties on income taxes, if any, as a component of income tax expense.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Corporation. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no potential common shares outstanding. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share.

(In thousands, except earnings per share)	Year Ended
	December 31,
	2021		2020
Net income	$	14,688	$	11,837
Weighted-average common shares outstanding		5,908		5,841
Basic and diluted earnings per share	$	2.49	$	2.03

Treasury Stock

The purchase of the Corporation’s common stock is recorded at cost. At the date of subsequent reissue, the treasury stock account is reduced by the cost of such stock on a first-in-first-out basis.

Trust Assets and Revenues

Property held by the Corporation in a fiduciary or agency capacity for its customers is not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements since such items are not assets of the Corporation. Assets held in trust were $108,339,000 and $107,336,000 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Trust Department income is generally recognized on a cash basis and is not materially different than if it were reported on an accrual basis (see Table 5 – Non-Interest Income for details).

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The Corporation is required to present accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in a full set of general-purpose financial statements for all periods presented. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of net unrealized holding gains (losses) on the debt securities available-for-sale portfolio. The Corporation has elected to report these effects on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

Advertising Costs

It is the Corporation’s policy to expense advertising costs in the period in which they are incurred.

Recent Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU”):

Except as disclosed below, there were no new accounting pronouncements affecting the Corporation during the year ended December 31, 2021 that were not already adopted by the Corporation in previous periods.

Recently adopted ASUs:

In January 2021, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope, which refines the scope of Topic 848, Reference Rate Reform, and clarifies some of its guidance as part of the FASB’s ongoing monitoring of global reference rate reform activities. The ASU provides certain optional expedients and exceptions when applying U.S. GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions affected by the discontinuation of the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), or by another reference rate that is expected to be discontinued. The amendments are effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The Company has evaluated the provisions of ASU 2021-01 on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, and determined that there is no material impact on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Pending ASUs:

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU No. 2016-13 requires financial assets measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, through an allowance for credit losses that is deducted from the amortized cost basis. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. ASU No. 2016-13 is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019. In November 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-10, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326), Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815), and Leases (Topic 842), to delay the effective date for smaller reporting companies to fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2022. It is currently unclear how the adoption of this standard will impact the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements, but the Corporation is currently evaluating the provisions of ASU 2016-13 to determine the potential impact that the adoption of the standard may have on the Corporation. The Corporation has taken steps to prepare for the implementation when it becomes effective, such as: forming an internal committee, gathering pertinent data, consulting with outside professionals, subscribing to a new software system, and running existing and new methodologies concurrently through the period of implementation.

Transfer of Financial Assets

Transfers of financial assets are accounted for as sales when control over assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Corporation, (2) 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 (3) the Corporation does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets through an agreement to repurchase them before their maturity.

Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments

In the ordinary course of business, the Corporation has entered into off-balance sheet financial instruments consisting of commitments to extend credit and letters of credit. Such financial instruments are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets when they are funded.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts previously reported have been reclassified, when necessary, to conform with presentations used in the 2021 consolidated financial statements. Such reclassifications have no effect on the Corporation’s net income.