Contingencies and Commitments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

NOTE 12 - Contingencies and Commitments

Lawsuits and Legal Proceedings

Companies in the insurance industry have been subject to substantial litigation resulting from claims, disputes and other matters. For instance, they have faced expensive claims, including class action lawsuits, alleging, among other things, improper sales practices and improper claims settlement procedures. Negotiated settlements of certain such actions have had a material adverse effect on many insurance companies.

At the time of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company does not have pending litigation from which there is a reasonable possibility of material loss.

Assessments for Insolvencies of Unaffiliated Insurance Companies

The Company is contingently liable for possible assessments under regulatory requirements pertaining to potential insolvencies of unaffiliated insurance companies. Liabilities, which are established based upon regulatory guidance, have generally been insignificant.

Leases

The Company has entered into various operating lease agreements, primarily for real estate (claims and marketing offices in a few states, as well as portions of the home office complex) and also for computer equipment and copy machines. Rental expenses were $2,546, $2,872 and $2,823 for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Future minimum lease payments under leases expiring subsequent to December 31, 2016 are as follows:

	As of December 31, 2016
	2017		2018		2019		2020		2021		2022- 2026		2027 and beyond

Minimum operating lease payments	$	2,608	$	2,583	$	2,400	$	1,598	$	1,147	$	1,627	$	-

Investment Commitments

From time to time, the Company has outstanding commitments to purchase investments and/or commitments to lend funds under bridge loans. Unfunded commitments to purchase investments were $135,054 and $147,139 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.