SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation and Consolidation	*Basis of Presentation and Consolidation* The consolidated financial statements (the “financial statements”) of Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Berkshire”) have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The Company is a Delaware corporation and the holding company for Berkshire Bank (the “Bank”), a Massachusetts-chartered savings bank headquartered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and Berkshire Insurance Group, Inc. (“Berkshire Insurance Group” or “BIG”). These financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the Bank’s consolidated subsidiaries. One of the Bank’s consolidated subsidiaries is Berkshire Bank Municipal Bank, a New York-chartered limited-purpose commercial bank. In consolidation, all significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. The results of operations of companies or assets acquired are included only from the dates of acquisition. All material wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries are consolidated unless GAAP requires otherwise.
Discontinued Operations	*Discontinued Operations* Assets and liabilities related to discontinued operations are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value in the aggregate and presented in a separate line item on the consolidated balance sheets. Revenue and expense related to discontinued operations are not reported separately, and net income related to these operations is presented in a separate line item on the consolidated statements of operations.
Reclassifications	*Reclassifications* Certain items in prior financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. The Company has evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and/or disclosure through the date these consolidated financial statements were issued.
Use of Estimates	*Use of Estimates* The preparation of 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 liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses; the valuation of deferred tax assets; the estimates related to the initial measurement of goodwill and intangible assets and subsequent impairment analyses; the determination of other-than-temporary impairment of securities; and the determination of fair value of financial instruments and subsequent impairment analysis.
Business Combinations	*Business Combinations* Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under this method, the accounts of an acquired entity are included with the acquirer’s accounts as of the date of acquisition with any excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired (including identifiable intangibles) capitalized as goodwill. To consummate an acquisition, the Company will typically issue common stock and/or pay cash, depending on the terms of the acquisition agreement. The value of common shares issued is determined based upon the market price of the stock as of the closing of the acquisition.
Cash and Cash equivalents	*Cash and Cash equivalents* Cash and cash equivalents include cash, balances due from banks, and short-term investments, all of which mature within ninety days. Due to the nature of cash and cash equivalents and the near term maturity, the Company estimated that the carrying amount of such instruments approximated fair value. The nature of the Bank’s business requires that it maintain amounts due from banks which at times, may exceed federally insured limits. The Bank has not experienced any losses on such amounts and all amounts are maintained with well-capitalized institutions.
Trading Security	*Trading Security* The Company elected the fair value option permitted by Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” , on a tax advantaged economic development bond originated in 2008. The bond has been designated as a trading account security and is recorded at fair value, with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded through earnings each period as part of non-interest income.
Securities	*Securities* Debt securities that management has the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost. All other securities, including equity securities with readily determinable fair values, are classified as available for sale and carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a component of other net comprehensive income. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of purchase. Restricted equity securities, such as stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLBB”) are carried at cost. There are no quoted market prices for the Company’s restricted equity securities. The Bank is a member of the FHLBB, which requires that members maintain an investment in FHLBB stock, which may be redeemed based on certain conditions. The Bank reviews for impairment based on the ultimate recoverability of the cost bases in the FHLBB stock. Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. Gains and losses on the sale of securities are recorded on the trade date and are determined using the specific identification method. The Company evaluates debt and equity securities within the Company’s available for sale and held to maturity portfolios for other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”), at least quarterly. If the fair value of a debt security is below the amortized cost basis of the security, OTTI is required to be recognized if any of the following are met: (1) the Company intends to sell the security; (2) it is “more likely than not” that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis; or (3) for debt securities, the present value of expected cash flows is not sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis. For all impaired debt securities that the Company intends to sell, or more likely than not will be required to sell, the full amount of the depreciation is recognized as OTTI through earnings. Credit-related OTTI for all other impaired debt securities is recognized through earnings. Non-credit related OTTI for such debt securities is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. In evaluating its marketable equity securities portfolios for OTTI, the Company considers its intent and ability to hold an equity security to recovery of its cost basis in addition to various other factors, including the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost and the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer. Any OTTI on marketable equity securities is recognized immediately through earnings.
Loans Held for Sale	*Loans Held for Sale* Loans originated prior to April 30, 2012, with the intent to be sold in the secondary market, were valued on an aggregate basis at the lower-of-cost-or-fair value. Loans originated on or after April 30, 2012, with the intent to be sold in the secondary market, are accounted for under the fair value option. Non-refundable fees and direct loan origination costs related to residential mortgage loans held for sale are recognized in noninterest income or noninterest expense as earned or incurred. Fair value is primarily determined based on quoted prices for similar loans in active markets. Gains and losses on sales of residential mortgage loans (sales proceeds minus carrying value) are recorded in noninterest income. Loans that were previously held for investment that the Company has an active plan to sell are transferred to loans held for sale at fair value. Fair value is primarily determined based on quoted prices for similar loans in active markets or agreed upon sales prices. Gains are recorded in noninterest income to the extent that the fair value exceeds the carrying value of the loans transferred. Any reduction in the loan’s value, prior to being transferred to loans held for sale, is reflected as a charge-off of the recorded investment in the loan resulting in a new cost basis, with a corresponding reduction in the allowance for loan losses. Further changes in the fair value of the loan are recognized in noninterest income or expense, accordingly.
Loans	*Loans* Loans are reported at their outstanding unpaid principal balances adjusted for charge-offs, the allowance for loan losses, the unamortized balance of any deferred fees or costs on originated loans and the unamortized balance of any premiums or discounts on loans purchased or acquired through mergers. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Interest income includes net accretion or amortization of deferred fees or costs and of premiums or discounts. Interest income is also net of recoveries or losses recorded on acquired impaired loans. Direct loan originations costs, net of any origination fees, in addition to premiums and discounts on loans, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield using the interest method. Interest on loans, excluding automobile loans, is generally not accrued on loans which are ninety days or more past due unless the loan is well-secured and in the process of collection. Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. Automobile loans generally continue accruing until one hundred and twenty days delinquent, at which time they are charged off. All interest accrued but not collected for loans that are placed on non-accrual or charged-off is reversed against interest income, except for certain loans designated as well-secured. The interest on non-accrual loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. All payments received on non-accrual loans are applied against the principal balance of the loan. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.
Acquired Loans	*Acquired Loans* Loans that the Company acquired in acquisitions are initially recorded at fair value with no carryover of the related allowance for credit losses. Determining the fair value of the loans involves estimating the amount and timing of principal and interest cash flows initially expected to be collected on the loans and discounting those cash flows at an appropriate market rate of interest. For loans that meet the criteria stipulated in ASC 310-30, “Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ”, the Company shall recognize the accretable yield, which is defined as the excess of all cash flows expected at acquisition over the initial fair value of the loan, as interest income on a level-yield basis over the expected remaining life of the loan. The excess of the loan’s contractually required payments over the cash flows expected to be collected is the nonaccretable difference. The nonaccretable difference shall not be recognized as an adjustment of yield, a loss accrual, or a valuation allowance. Going forward, the Company shall continue to evaluate whether the timing and the amount of cash to be collected are reasonably expected. Subsequent significant increases in cash flows the Company expects to collect will first reduce previously recognized valuation allowance and then be reflected prospectively as an increase to the level yield. Subsequent decreases in expected cash flows may result in the loan being considered impaired. Interest income shall not be recognized to the extent that the net investment in the loan would increase to an amount greater than the estimated payoff amount. For ASC 310-30 loans, the expected cash flows reflect anticipated prepayments, determined on a loan by loan basis according to the anticipated collection plan of these loans. The expected prepayments used to determine the accretable yield shall be consistent between the cash flows expected to be collected and projections of contractual cash flows so as to not affect the nonaccretable difference. For ASC 310-30 loans, prepayments result in the recognition of the nonaccretable balance as current period yield. Changes in prepayment assumptions may change the amount of interest income and principal expected to be collected. For loans that do not meet the ASC 310-30 criteria, the Company shall accrete interest income on a level yield basis using the contractually required cash flows. The Company subjects loans that do not meet the ASC 310-30 criteria to ASC Topic 450, “Contingencies” by collectively evaluating these loans for an allowance for loan loss. Acquired loans that met the criteria for nonaccrual of interest prior to the acquisition are considered performing upon acquisition, regardless of whether the customer is contractually delinquent, if the Company can reasonably estimate the timing and amount of the expected cash flows on such loans and if the Company expects to fully collect the new carrying value of the loans. As such, the Company may no longer consider the loan to be nonaccrual or nonperforming and may accrue interest on these loans, including the impact of any accretable yield. The Company has determined that the Company can reasonably estimate future cash flows on the Company’s current portfolio of acquired loans that are past due 90 days or more and on which the Company is accruing interest and the Company expects to fully collect the carrying value of the loans.
Allowance for Loan Losses	*Allowance for Loan Losses* The allowance for loan losses is established based upon the level of estimated probable losses in the current loan portfolio. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the collectability of a loan balance is doubtful. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. The allowance for loan losses includes allowance allocations calculated in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 310, “Receivables” and allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 450, “Contingencies.” The allowance for loan losses is allocated to loan types using both a formula-based approach applied to groups of loans and an analysis of certain individual loans for impairment. The formula-based approach emphasizes loss factors derived from actual historical and industry portfolio loss rates, which are combined with an assessment of certain qualitative factors to determine the allowance amounts allocated to the various loan categories. Allowance amounts are based on an estimate of historical average annual percentage rate of loan loss for each loan segment, a temporal estimate of the incurred loss emergence and confirmation period for each loan category, and certain qualitative risk factors considered in the computation of the allowance for loan losses. Qualitative risk factors impacting the inherent risk of loss within the portfolio include the following: · National and local economic and business conditions · Level and trend of delinquencies · Level and trend of charge-offs and recoveries · Trends in volume and terms of loans · Risk selection, lending policy and underwriting standards · Experience and depth of management · Banking industry conditions and other external factors · Concentration risk Risk characteristics relevant to each portfolio segment are as follows: Residential mortgage — The Company generally does not originate loans with a loan-to-value ratio greater than 80 percent and does not grant subprime loans. The Company requires private mortgage insurance (PMI) in cases when the loan-to-value ratio exceeds 80 percent. All loans in this segment are collateralized by residential real estate and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Commercial mortgage — Loans in this segment are primarily owner-occupied or income-producing properties throughout New England and Northeastern New York. The underlying cash flows generated by the properties are adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy, which in turn, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Management monitors the cash flows of these loans. In addition, construction loans in this segment primarily include real estate development loans for which payment is derived from sale of the property or long term financing at completion. Credit risk is affected by cost overruns, time to sell at an adequate price, and market conditions. Commercial business loans — Loans in this segment are made to businesses and are generally secured by assets of the business. Repayment is expected from the cash flows of the business. Loans in this segment include asset based loans which generally have no scheduled repayment and which are closely monitored against formula based collateral advance ratios. A weakened economy, and resultant decreased consumer spending, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Consumer loans — Loans in this segment are primarily home equity lines of credit and second mortgages, together with automobile loans and other consumer loans. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. The Company utilizes industry portfolio loss rates for commercial mortgage and commercial business loans that are assessed by internal risk rating. Historical loss rates for residential mortgages, home equity and other consumer loans are not risk graded but are assessed based on the total of each loan segment. This approach incorporates qualitative adjustments based upon management’s assessment of various market and portfolio specific risk factors into its formula-based estimate. Due to the imprecise nature of the loan loss estimation process and ever changing conditions, the qualitative risk attributes may not adequately capture amounts of incurred loss in the formula-based loan loss components used to determine allocations in the Company’s analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses. The Company evaluates certain loans individually for specific impairment. A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment 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 impaired. Loans are selected for evaluation based upon a change in internal risk rating, occurrence of delinquency, loan classification, or non-accrual status. The evaluation of certain loans individually for specific impairment includes loans that were previously classified as Troubled Debt Restructurings (“TDRs”) or continue to be classified as TDRs. A specific allowance amount is allocated to an individual loan when such loan has been deemed impaired and when the amount of the probable loss is able to be estimated. Estimates of loss may be determined by the present value of anticipated future cash flows or the loan’s observable fair market value, or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. However, for collateral dependent loans, the amount of the recorded investment in a loan that exceeds the fair value of the collateral is charged-off against the allowance for loan losses in lieu of an allocation of a specific allowance amount when such an amount has been identified definitively as uncollectible. Large groups of small-balance homogeneous loans such as the residential mortgage, home equity and other consumer portfolios are collectively evaluated for impairment. As such, the Company does not typically identify individual loans within these groupings as impaired loans or for impairment evaluation and disclosure. The Company evaluates all TDRs for impairment on an individual loan basis regardless of loan type.
Bank-Owned Life Insurance	*Bank-Owned Life Insurance* Bank-owned life insurance policies are reflected on the consolidated balance sheets at cash surrender value. Changes in the net cash surrender value of the policies, as well as insurance proceeds received, are reflected in non-interest income on the consolidated statements of operations and are not subject to income taxes.
Foreclosed and Repossessed Assets	*Foreclosed and Repossessed Assets* Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure or repossession are held for sale and are initially recorded at the lower of the investment in the loan or fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of foreclosure or repossession, establishing a new cost basis. Subsequently, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Revenue and expenses from operations, changes in the valuation allowance, any direct write-downs and gains or losses on sales are included in other real estate owned expense.
Capitalized Mortgage Servicing Rights	*Capitalized Mortgage Servicing Rights* Capitalized mortgage servicing rights are included in “other assets” in the consolidated balance sheet. Servicing assets are initially recognized as separate assets at fair value when rights are acquired through purchase or through sale of financial assets with servicing retained. The Company uses the amortization method to subsequently measure servicing assets. Under that method, capitalized mortgage servicing rights are charged to expense in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. Fair value of the mortgage servicing rights is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual tranche, to the extent that fair value is less than the capitalized amount for the tranches. If the Company later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular tranche, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Capitalized servicing rights are reported in other assets and are amortized into non-interest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying financial assets.
Premises and Equipment	*Premises and Equipment* Land is carried at cost. Buildings, improvements and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the initial term of the lease, plus optional terms if certain conditions are met.
Goodwill	*Goodwill* Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units, which are operating segments or one level below an operating segment. Goodwill is assigned to the Company’s reporting units that are expected to benefit from the business combination. Goodwill is assessed annually for impairment, and more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that there may be an impairment. Adverse changes in the economic environment, declining operations, unanticipated competition, loss of key personnel, or other factors could result in a decline in the implied fair value of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying amount, a loss would be recognized in other noninterest expense to reduce the carrying amount to the implied fair value of goodwill. A goodwill impairment analysis is comprised of two steps. Step 1, used to identify instances of potential impairment, compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, including goodwill, the reporting unit’s goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill, exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment analysis is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. Step 2 of the goodwill impairment analysis compares the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of goodwill for that reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of that reporting unit’s goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Subsequent reversals of goodwill impairment are prohibited.
Other Intangibles	*Other Intangibles* Intangible assets are acquired assets that lack physical substance but can be distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability. The fair values of these assets are generally determined based on appraisals and are subsequently amortized on a straight-line basis or an accelerated basis over their estimated lives. Management assesses the recoverability of these intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount exceeds fair value, an impairment charge is recorded to income.
Transfers of Financial Assets	*Transfers of Financial Assets* Transfers of an entire financial asset, group of entire financial assets, or a participating interest in an entire financial asset are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets.
Income Taxes	*Income Taxes* The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with the Bank and its subsidiaries. Calculation of the Company’s provision for income taxes requires the interpretation of income tax laws and regulations and the use of estimates and judgments in its determination. The Company is subject to examination by governmental authorities that may give rise to income tax issues due to differing interpretations. Changes to the liability for income taxes also occur due to changes in income tax rates, implementation of new business strategies, resolution of issues with taxing authorities, and newly enacted statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance. Deferred income taxes are provided to reflect the tax effect of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are calculated by applying enacted statutory tax rates and tax laws to future years in which temporary differences are expected to reverse. The impact on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that the tax rate change is enacted. A deferred tax valuation allowance is established if it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company maintains reserves for certain tax positions that arise in the normal course of business. As of December 31, 2012, these positions were evaluated based on an assessment of probabilities as to the likelihood of whether a liability had been incurred. Such assessments are reviewed as events occur and adjustments to the reserves are made as appropriate. In evaluating a tax position for recognition, the Company judgmentally evaluates whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. If the tax position meets the more likely than not recognition threshold, the tax position is measured and recognized in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements as the largest amount of tax benefit that, in management’s judgment, is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
Insurance Commissions	*Insurance Commissions* Commission revenue is recognized as of the effective date of the insurance policy or the date the customer is billed, whichever is later, net of return commissions related to policy cancellations. In addition, the Company may receive additional performance commissions based on achieving certain sales and loss experience measures. Such commissions are recognized when determinable, which is generally when such commissions are received or when the Company receives data from the insurance companies that allows the reasonable estimation of these amounts.
Advertising Costs	*Advertising Costs* Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.
Stock-Based Compensation	*Stock-Based Compensation* The Company measures and recognizes compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions based on the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments issued. The fair value of restricted stock is recorded as unearned compensation. The deferred expense is amortized to compensation expense based on one of several permitted attribution methods over the longer of the required service period or performance period. For performance-based restricted stock awards, the Company estimates the degree to which performance conditions will be met to determine the number of shares that will vest and the related compensation expense. Compensation expense is adjusted in the period such estimates change. Income tax benefits related to stock compensation in excess of grant date fair value, less any proceeds on exercise, are recognized as an increase to additional paid-in capital upon vesting or exercising and delivery of the stock. Any income tax benefits that are less than grant date fair value less any proceeds on exercise would be recognized as a reduction of additional paid-in capital to the extent of previously recognized income tax benefits and then as compensation expense for the remaining amount.
Earnings per Common Share	*Earnings per Common Share* Basic earnings per share represents income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. If rights to dividends on unvested options/awards are non-forfeitable, these unvested awards/options are considered outstanding in the computation of basic earnings per share. Diluted earnings per share reflects additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustments to income that would result from the assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate to outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards and are determined using the treasury stock method. Treasury shares are not deemed outstanding for earnings per share calculations.
Wealth Management Assets	*Wealth Management Assets* Wealth management assets held in a fiduciary or agent capacity are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets because they are not assets of the Company.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	*Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities* The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management strategy for certain assets and liabilities and not for speculative purposes. Based on the Company’s intended use for the interest rate swap at inception, the Company designates the derivative as either an economic hedge of an asset or liability or a hedging instrument subject to the hedge accounting provisions of FASB ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” Interest rate swaps designated as economic hedges are recorded at fair value within other assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recorded directly through earnings. For interest rate swaps that management intends to apply the hedge accounting provisions of Topic 815, the Company formally documents at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the various hedges. Additionally, the Company uses dollar offset or regression analysis at the hedge’s inception and for each reporting period thereafter, to assess whether the derivative used in its hedging transaction is expected to be and has been highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it is determined that a derivative is not expected to be or has ceased to be highly effective as a hedge, and then reflects changes in fair value of the derivative in earnings after termination of the hedge relationship. The Company has characterized its interest rate swaps that qualify under Topic 815 hedge accounting as cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges are used to minimize the variability in cash flows of assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions caused by interest rate fluctuations, and are recorded at fair value in other assets or liabilities within the Company’s balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of these cash flow hedges are initially recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. Any hedge ineffectiveness assessed as part of the Company’s quarterly analysis is recorded directly to earnings. The Company enters into interest rate lock commitments with borrowers, and forward commitments to sell loans or to-be-announced mortgage-backed bonds to investors to hedge against the inherent interest rate and pricing risk associated with selling loans. The interest rate lock commitments generally terminate once the loan is funded, the lock period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan. The forward commitments generally terminate once the loan is sold, the commitment period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan. These commitments are considered derivatives which are accounted for by recognizing their estimated fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as either a freestanding asset or liability. See Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on interest rate lock commitments and forward commitments.
Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments	*Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments* In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into off-balance sheet financial instruments, consisting primarily of credit related financial instruments. These financial instruments are recorded in the financial statements when they are funded or related fees are incurred or received.
Fair Value Hierarchy	*Fair Value Hierarchy* The Company groups assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value. Level 1 — Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 — Valuation is based on observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 — Valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using unobservable techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.
Employee Benefits	*Employee Benefits* The Company maintains an employer sponsored 401(k) plan where participants may make contributions in the form of salary deferrals and the Company provides matching contributions in accordance with the terms of the plan. Contributions due under the terms of the defined contribution plans are accrued as earned by employees. Due to the Rome Bancorp acquisition in 2011, the Company inherited a noncontributory, qualified, defined benefit pension plan for certain employees who met age and service requirements; as well as other post-retirement benefits, principally health care and group life insurance. The Rome pension plan and postretirement benefits that were acquired in connection with the whole-bank acquisition in the second quarter of 2011 were frozen prior to the close of the transaction. The pension benefit in the form of a life annuity is based on the employee’s combined years of service, age, and compensation. In order to measure the expense associated with the Plans, various assumptions are made including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, anticipated mortality rates, and expected future healthcare costs. The assumptions are based on historical experience as well as current facts and circumstances. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for its Plans. As of the measurement date, plan assets are determined based on fair value, generally representing observable market prices. The projected benefit obligation is primarily determined based on the present value of projected benefit distributions at an assumed discount rate. Net periodic pension benefit costs include interest costs based on an assumed discount rate, the expected return on plan assets based on actuarially derived market-related values, and the amortization of net actuarial losses. Net periodic postretirement benefit costs include service costs, interest costs based on an assumed discount rate, and the amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial gains. Differences between expected and actual results in each year are included in the net actuarial gain or loss amount, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The net actuarial gain or loss in excess of a 10% corridor is amortized in net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining service period of active participants in the Plans. The prior service credit is amortized over the average remaining service period to full eligibility for participating employees expected to receive benefits. The Company recognizes in its statement of condition an asset for a plan’s overfunded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status. The Company also measures the Plans’ assets and obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the fiscal year and recognizes those changes in other comprehensive income, net of tax.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	*Recent Accounting Pronouncements* ASU No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs.” In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04 resulting in a consistent definition of fair value and common requirements for the measurement of and disclosure about fair value between U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The changes to U.S. GAAP as a result of ASU No. 2011-04 are as follows: (1) The concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise are only relevant when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets; (2) U.S. GAAP currently prohibits application of a blockage factor in valuing financial instruments with quoted prices in active markets. ASU No. 2011-04 extends that prohibition to all fair value measurements; (3) An exception is provided to the basic fair value measurement principles for an entity that holds a group of financial assets and financial liabilities with offsetting positions in market risks or counterparty credit risk that are managed on the basis of the entity’s net exposure to either of those risks. This exception allows the entity, if certain criteria are met, to measure the fair value of the net asset or liability position in a manner consistent with how market participants would price the net risk position; (4) The fair value measurement of instruments classified within an entity’s shareholders’ equity is aligned with the guidance for liabilities; and (5) Disclosure requirements have been enhanced for Level 3 fair value measurements to disclose quantitative information about unobservable inputs and assumptions used, to describe the valuation processes used by the entity, and to qualitatively describe the sensitivity of fair value measurements to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those inputs. In addition, entities must report the level in the fair value hierarchy of items that are not measured at fair value in the statement of condition but whose fair value must be disclosed. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU No. 2011-04 effective January 1, 2012. The fair value measurement provisions of ASU No. 2011-04 had no impact on the Company’s financial statements. The required disclosures are incorporated in Note 20 to the Company’s financial statements. ASU 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Presentation of Comprehensive Income.” ASU 2011-05 amends Topic 220, “Comprehensive Income,” to require that all non-owner changes in stockholders’ equity be presented in either a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. Additionally, ASU 2011-05 requires entities to present, on the face of the financial statements, reclassification adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in the statement or statements where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented. The option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity was eliminated. ASU 2011-05 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011; however, certain provisions related to the presentation of reclassification adjustments have been deferred by ASU 2011-12 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05,” as further discussed below. ASU No. 2011-08, “Testing Goodwill for Impairment”. In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-08 which will allow an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under these amendments, an entity would not be required to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit unless the entity determines, based on a qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying amount . The guidance is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance during 2012 did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements. ASU 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210) - “Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” ASU 2011-11 amends Topic 210, “Balance Sheet,” to require an entity to disclose both gross and net information about financial instruments, such as sales and repurchase agreements and reverse sale and repurchase agreements and securities borrowing/lending arrangements, and derivative instruments that are eligible for offset in the statement of financial position and/or subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement. ASU 2011-11 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning on January 1, 2013, and is limited to matters of presentation with no impact expected on the Company’s financial statements. ASU 2011-12 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05.” ASU 2011-12 defers changes in ASU No. 2011-05 that relate to the presentation of reclassification adjustments to allow the FASB time to redeliberate whether to require presentation of such adjustments on the face of the financial statements to show the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the components of net income and other comprehensive income. ASU 2011-12 allows entities to continue to report reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income consistent with the presentation requirements in effect before ASU No. 2011-05. All other requirements in ASU No. 2011-05 are not affected by ASU No. 2011-12. ASU 2011-12 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The required disclosures are incorporated in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. ASU No. 2012-02, “Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment”. In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, which permit an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test,. ASU No. 2012-02 is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. ASU 2013-01 “Balance Sheet (Topic 210) - Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The ASU amends Update 2011-11 to clarify that the scope applies to derivatives, repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements, and securities borrowing and lending transactions that are either offset in accordance with Section 210-20-45 or Section 815-10-45 or subject to master netting or similar arrangements. Other types of financial assets and liabilities subject to master netting or similar arrangements are not subject to the disclosure requirements in Update 2011-11. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements. ASU 2013-02 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income”. The ASU requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. The amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements (the “financial statements”) of Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Berkshire”) have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The Company is a Delaware corporation and the holding company for Berkshire Bank (the “Bank”), a Massachusetts-chartered savings bank headquartered in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and Berkshire Insurance Group, Inc. (“Berkshire Insurance Group” or “BIG”). These financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the Bank’s consolidated subsidiaries. One of the Bank’s consolidated subsidiaries is Berkshire Bank Municipal Bank, a New York-chartered limited-purpose commercial bank. In consolidation, all significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. The results of operations of companies or assets acquired are included only from the dates of acquisition. All material wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries are consolidated unless GAAP requires otherwise.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations

Assets and liabilities related to discontinued operations are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value in the aggregate and presented in a separate line item on the consolidated balance sheets. Revenue and expense related to discontinued operations are not reported separately, and net income related to these operations is presented in a separate line item on the consolidated statements of operations.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications

Certain items in prior financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. The Company has evaluated subsequent events for potential recognition and/or disclosure through the date these consolidated financial statements were issued.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of 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 liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term relate to the determination of the allowance for loan losses; the valuation of deferred tax assets; the estimates related to the initial measurement of goodwill and intangible assets and subsequent impairment analyses; the determination of other-than-temporary impairment of securities; and the determination of fair value of financial instruments and subsequent impairment analysis.

Business Combinations

Business Combinations

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under this method, the accounts of an acquired entity are included with the acquirer’s accounts as of the date of acquisition with any excess of purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired (including identifiable intangibles) capitalized as goodwill.

To consummate an acquisition, the Company will typically issue common stock and/or pay cash, depending on the terms of the acquisition agreement. The value of common shares issued is determined based upon the market price of the stock as of the closing of the acquisition.

Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and Cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash, balances due from banks, and short-term investments, all of which mature within ninety days. Due to the nature of cash and cash equivalents and the near term maturity, the Company estimated that the carrying amount of such instruments approximated fair value. The nature of the Bank’s business requires that it maintain amounts due from banks which at times, may exceed federally insured limits. The Bank has not experienced any losses on such amounts and all amounts are maintained with well-capitalized institutions.

Trading Security

Trading Security

The Company elected the fair value option permitted by Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” , on a tax advantaged economic development bond originated in 2008. The bond has been designated as a trading account security and is recorded at fair value, with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded through earnings each period as part of non-interest income.

Securities

Securities

Debt securities that management has the intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and carried at amortized cost. All other securities, including equity securities with readily determinable fair values, are classified as available for sale and carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a component of other net comprehensive income. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of purchase. Restricted equity securities, such as stock in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLBB”) are carried at cost. There are no quoted market prices for the Company’s restricted equity securities. The Bank is a member of the FHLBB, which requires that members maintain an investment in FHLBB stock, which may be redeemed based on certain conditions. The Bank reviews for impairment based on the ultimate recoverability of the cost bases in the FHLBB stock.

Purchase premiums and discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the terms of the securities. Gains and losses on the sale of securities are recorded on the trade date and are determined using the specific identification method.

The Company evaluates debt and equity securities within the Company’s available for sale and held to maturity portfolios for other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”), at least quarterly. If the fair value of a debt security is below the amortized cost basis of the security, OTTI is required to be recognized if any of the following are met: (1) the Company intends to sell the security; (2) it is “more likely than not” that the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis; or (3) for debt securities, the present value of expected cash flows is not sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis. For all impaired debt securities that the Company intends to sell, or more likely than not will be required to sell, the full amount of the depreciation is recognized as OTTI through earnings. Credit-related OTTI for all other impaired debt securities is recognized through earnings. Non-credit related OTTI for such debt securities is recognized in other comprehensive income, net of applicable taxes. In evaluating its marketable equity securities portfolios for OTTI, the Company considers its intent and ability to hold an equity security to recovery of its cost basis in addition to various other factors, including the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost and the financial condition and near term prospects of the issuer. Any OTTI on marketable equity securities is recognized immediately through earnings.

Loans Held for Sale

Loans Held for Sale

Loans originated prior to April 30, 2012, with the intent to be sold in the secondary market, were valued on an aggregate basis at the lower-of-cost-or-fair value. Loans originated on or after April 30, 2012, with the intent to be sold in the secondary market, are accounted for under the fair value option. Non-refundable fees and direct loan origination costs related to residential mortgage loans held for sale are recognized in noninterest income or noninterest expense as earned or incurred. Fair value is primarily determined based on quoted prices for similar loans in active markets. Gains and losses on sales of residential mortgage loans (sales proceeds minus carrying value) are recorded in noninterest income.

Loans that were previously held for investment that the Company has an active plan to sell are transferred to loans held for sale at fair value. Fair value is primarily determined based on quoted prices for similar loans in active markets or agreed upon sales prices. Gains are recorded in noninterest income to the extent that the fair value exceeds the carrying value of the loans transferred. Any reduction in the loan’s value, prior to being transferred to loans held for sale, is reflected as a charge-off of the recorded investment in the loan resulting in a new cost basis, with a corresponding reduction in the allowance for loan losses. Further changes in the fair value of the loan are recognized in noninterest income or expense, accordingly.

Loans

Loans

Loans are reported at their outstanding unpaid principal balances adjusted for charge-offs, the allowance for loan losses, the unamortized balance of any deferred fees or costs on originated loans and the unamortized balance of any premiums or discounts on loans purchased or acquired through mergers. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance. Interest income includes net accretion or amortization of deferred fees or costs and of premiums or discounts. Interest income is also net of recoveries or losses recorded on acquired impaired loans. Direct loan originations costs, net of any origination fees, in addition to premiums and discounts on loans, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield using the interest method. Interest on loans, excluding automobile loans, is generally not accrued on loans which are ninety days or more past due unless the loan is well-secured and in the process of collection. Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. Automobile loans generally continue accruing until one hundred and twenty days delinquent, at which time they are charged off. All interest accrued but not collected for loans that are placed on non-accrual or charged-off is reversed against interest income, except for certain loans designated as well-secured. The interest on non-accrual loans is accounted for on the cash-basis or cost-recovery method, until qualifying for return to accrual. All payments received on non-accrual loans are applied against the principal balance of the loan. Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Acquired Loans

Acquired Loans

Loans that the Company acquired in acquisitions are initially recorded at fair value with no carryover of the related allowance for credit losses. Determining the fair value of the loans involves estimating the amount and timing of principal and interest cash flows initially expected to be collected on the loans and discounting those cash flows at an appropriate market rate of interest.

For loans that meet the criteria stipulated in ASC 310-30, “Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ”, the Company shall recognize the accretable yield, which is defined as the excess of all cash flows expected at acquisition over the initial fair value of the loan, as interest income on a level-yield basis over the expected remaining life of the loan. The excess of the loan’s contractually required payments over the cash flows expected to be collected is the nonaccretable difference. The nonaccretable difference shall not be recognized as an adjustment of yield, a loss accrual, or a valuation allowance. Going forward, the Company shall continue to evaluate whether the timing and the amount of cash to be collected are reasonably expected. Subsequent significant increases in cash flows the Company expects to collect will first reduce previously recognized valuation allowance and then be reflected prospectively as an increase to the level yield. Subsequent decreases in expected cash flows may result in the loan being considered impaired. Interest income shall not be recognized to the extent that the net investment in the loan would increase to an amount greater than the estimated payoff amount.

For ASC 310-30 loans, the expected cash flows reflect anticipated prepayments, determined on a loan by loan basis according to the anticipated collection plan of these loans. The expected prepayments used to determine the accretable yield shall be consistent between the cash flows expected to be collected and projections of contractual cash flows so as to not affect the nonaccretable difference. For ASC 310-30 loans, prepayments result in the recognition of the nonaccretable balance as current period yield. Changes in prepayment assumptions may change the amount of interest income and principal expected to be collected.

For loans that do not meet the ASC 310-30 criteria, the Company shall accrete interest income on a level yield basis using the contractually required cash flows. The Company subjects loans that do not meet the ASC 310-30 criteria to ASC Topic 450, “Contingencies” by collectively evaluating these loans for an allowance for loan loss.

Acquired loans that met the criteria for nonaccrual of interest prior to the acquisition are considered performing upon acquisition, regardless of whether the customer is contractually delinquent, if the Company can reasonably estimate the timing and amount of the expected cash flows on such loans and if the Company expects to fully collect the new carrying value of the loans. As such, the Company may no longer consider the loan to be nonaccrual or nonperforming and may accrue interest on these loans, including the impact of any accretable yield. The Company has determined that the Company can reasonably estimate future cash flows on the Company’s current portfolio of acquired loans that are past due 90 days or more and on which the Company is accruing interest and the Company expects to fully collect the carrying value of the loans.

Allowance for Loan Losses

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is established based upon the level of estimated probable losses in the current loan portfolio. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the collectability of a loan balance is doubtful. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. The allowance for loan losses includes allowance allocations calculated in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 310, “Receivables” and allowance allocations calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 450, “Contingencies.”

The allowance for loan losses is allocated to loan types using both a formula-based approach applied to groups of loans and an analysis of certain individual loans for impairment. The formula-based approach emphasizes loss factors derived from actual historical and industry portfolio loss rates, which are combined with an assessment of certain qualitative factors to determine the allowance amounts allocated to the various loan categories. Allowance amounts are based on an estimate of historical average annual percentage rate of loan loss for each loan segment, a temporal estimate of the incurred loss emergence and confirmation period for each loan category, and certain qualitative risk factors considered in the computation of the allowance for loan losses.

Qualitative risk factors impacting the inherent risk of loss within the portfolio include the following:

· National and local economic and business conditions

· Level and trend of delinquencies

· Level and trend of charge-offs and recoveries

· Trends in volume and terms of loans

· Risk selection, lending policy and underwriting standards

· Experience and depth of management

· Banking industry conditions and other external factors

· Concentration risk

Risk characteristics relevant to each portfolio segment are as follows:

Residential mortgage — The Company generally does not originate loans with a loan-to-value ratio greater than 80 percent and does not grant subprime loans. The Company requires private mortgage insurance (PMI) in cases when the loan-to-value ratio exceeds 80 percent. All loans in this segment are collateralized by residential real estate and repayment is dependent on the credit quality of the individual borrower. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

Commercial mortgage — Loans in this segment are primarily owner-occupied or income-producing properties throughout New England and Northeastern New York. The underlying cash flows generated by the properties are adversely impacted by a downturn in the economy, which in turn, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment. Management monitors the cash flows of these loans. In addition, construction loans in this segment primarily include real estate development loans for which payment is derived from sale of the property or long term financing at completion. Credit risk is affected by cost overruns, time to sell at an adequate price, and market conditions.

Commercial business loans — Loans in this segment are made to businesses and are generally secured by assets of the business. Repayment is expected from the cash flows of the business. Loans in this segment include asset based loans which generally have no scheduled repayment and which are closely monitored against formula based collateral advance ratios. A weakened economy, and resultant decreased consumer spending, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

Consumer loans — Loans in this segment are primarily home equity lines of credit and second mortgages, together with automobile loans and other consumer loans. The overall health of the economy, including unemployment rates and housing prices, will have an effect on the credit quality in this segment.

The Company utilizes industry portfolio loss rates for commercial mortgage and commercial business loans that are assessed by internal risk rating. Historical loss rates for residential mortgages, home equity and other consumer loans are not risk graded but are assessed based on the total of each loan segment. This approach incorporates qualitative adjustments based upon management’s assessment of various market and portfolio specific risk factors into its formula-based estimate. Due to the imprecise nature of the loan loss estimation process and ever changing conditions, the qualitative risk attributes may not adequately capture amounts of incurred loss in the formula-based loan loss components used to determine allocations in the Company’s analysis of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses.

The Company evaluates certain loans individually for specific impairment. A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment 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 impaired. Loans are selected for evaluation based upon a change in internal risk rating, occurrence of delinquency, loan classification, or non-accrual status. The evaluation of certain loans individually for specific impairment includes loans that were previously classified as Troubled Debt Restructurings (“TDRs”) or continue to be classified as TDRs. A specific allowance amount is allocated to an individual loan when such loan has been deemed impaired and when the amount of the probable loss is able to be estimated. Estimates of loss may be determined by the present value of anticipated future cash flows or the loan’s observable fair market value, or the fair value of the collateral, if the loan is collateral dependent. However, for collateral dependent loans, the amount of the recorded investment in a loan that exceeds the fair value of the collateral is charged-off against the allowance for loan losses in lieu of an allocation of a specific allowance amount when such an amount has been identified definitively as uncollectible.

Large groups of small-balance homogeneous loans such as the residential mortgage, home equity and other consumer portfolios are collectively evaluated for impairment. As such, the Company does not typically identify individual loans within these groupings as impaired loans or for impairment evaluation and disclosure. The Company evaluates all TDRs for impairment on an individual loan basis regardless of loan type.

Bank-Owned Life Insurance

Bank-Owned Life Insurance

Bank-owned life insurance policies are reflected on the consolidated balance sheets at cash surrender value. Changes in the net cash surrender value of the policies, as well as insurance proceeds received, are reflected in non-interest income on the consolidated statements of operations and are not subject to income taxes.

Foreclosed and Repossessed Assets

Foreclosed and Repossessed Assets

Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure or repossession are held for sale and are initially recorded at the lower of the investment in the loan or fair value less estimated costs to sell at the date of foreclosure or repossession, establishing a new cost basis. Subsequently, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets are carried at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Revenue and expenses from operations, changes in the valuation allowance, any direct write-downs and gains or losses on sales are included in other real estate owned expense.

Capitalized Mortgage Servicing Rights

Capitalized Mortgage Servicing Rights

Capitalized mortgage servicing rights are included in “other assets” in the consolidated balance sheet. Servicing assets are initially recognized as separate assets at fair value when rights are acquired through purchase or through sale of financial assets with servicing retained. The Company uses the amortization method to subsequently measure servicing assets. Under that method, capitalized mortgage servicing rights are charged to expense in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. Fair value of the mortgage servicing rights is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated future net servicing income. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use in estimating future net servicing income, such as the cost to service, the discount rate, prepayment speeds and default rates and losses. Impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for an individual tranche, to the extent that fair value is less than the capitalized amount for the tranches. If the Company later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular tranche, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded as an increase to income. Capitalized servicing rights are reported in other assets and are amortized into non-interest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying financial assets.

Premises and Equipment

Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost. Buildings, improvements and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the initial term of the lease, plus optional terms if certain conditions are met.

Goodwill

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units, which are operating segments or one level below an operating segment. Goodwill is assigned to the Company’s reporting units that are expected to benefit from the business combination. Goodwill is assessed annually for impairment, and more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that there may be an impairment. Adverse changes in the economic environment, declining operations, unanticipated competition, loss of key personnel, or other factors could result in a decline in the implied fair value of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying amount, a loss would be recognized in other noninterest expense to reduce the carrying amount to the implied fair value of goodwill. A goodwill impairment analysis is comprised of two steps. Step 1, used to identify instances of potential impairment, compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, including goodwill, the reporting unit’s goodwill is not considered impaired. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit, including goodwill, exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment analysis is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. Step 2 of the goodwill impairment analysis compares the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of goodwill for that reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of that reporting unit’s goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Subsequent reversals of goodwill impairment are prohibited.

Other Intangibles

Other Intangibles

Intangible assets are acquired assets that lack physical substance but can be distinguished from goodwill because of contractual or other legal rights or the asset is capable of being sold or exchanged either on its own or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability.

The fair values of these assets are generally determined based on appraisals and are subsequently amortized on a straight-line basis or an accelerated basis over their estimated lives. Management assesses the recoverability of these intangible assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount exceeds fair value, an impairment charge is recorded to income.

Transfers of Financial Assets

Transfers of Financial Assets

Transfers of an entire financial asset, group of entire financial assets, or a participating interest in an entire financial asset are accounted for as sales when control over the assets has been surrendered. Control over transferred assets is deemed to be surrendered when (1) the assets have been isolated from the Company, (2) the transferee obtains the right to pledge or exchange the transferred assets, and (3) the Company does not maintain effective control over the transferred assets.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with the Bank and its subsidiaries. Calculation of the Company’s provision for income taxes requires the interpretation of income tax laws and regulations and the use of estimates and judgments in its determination. The Company is subject to examination by governmental authorities that may give rise to income tax issues due to differing interpretations. Changes to the liability for income taxes also occur due to changes in income tax rates, implementation of new business strategies, resolution of issues with taxing authorities, and newly enacted statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance.

Deferred income taxes are provided to reflect the tax effect of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred income taxes are calculated by applying enacted statutory tax rates and tax laws to future years in which temporary differences are expected to reverse. The impact on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that the tax rate change is enacted. A deferred tax valuation allowance is established if it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

The Company maintains reserves for certain tax positions that arise in the normal course of business. As of December 31, 2012, these positions were evaluated based on an assessment of probabilities as to the likelihood of whether a liability had been incurred. Such assessments are reviewed as events occur and adjustments to the reserves are made as appropriate.

In evaluating a tax position for recognition, the Company judgmentally evaluates whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. If the tax position meets the more likely than not recognition threshold, the tax position is measured and recognized in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements as the largest amount of tax benefit that, in management’s judgment, is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.

Insurance Commissions

Insurance Commissions

Commission revenue is recognized as of the effective date of the insurance policy or the date the customer is billed, whichever is later, net of return commissions related to policy cancellations. In addition, the Company may receive additional performance commissions based on achieving certain sales and loss experience measures. Such commissions are recognized when determinable, which is generally when such commissions are received or when the Company receives data from the insurance companies that allows the reasonable estimation of these amounts.

Advertising Costs

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company measures and recognizes compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions based on the grant-date fair value of the equity instruments issued. The fair value of restricted stock is recorded as unearned compensation. The deferred expense is amortized to compensation expense based on one of several permitted attribution methods over the longer of the required service period or performance period. For performance-based restricted stock awards, the Company estimates the degree to which performance conditions will be met to determine the number of shares that will vest and the related compensation expense. Compensation expense is adjusted in the period such estimates change.

Income tax benefits related to stock compensation in excess of grant date fair value, less any proceeds on exercise, are recognized as an increase to additional paid-in capital upon vesting or exercising and delivery of the stock. Any income tax benefits that are less than grant date fair value less any proceeds on exercise would be recognized as a reduction of additional paid-in capital to the extent of previously recognized income tax benefits and then as compensation expense for the remaining amount.

Earnings per Common Share

Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per share represents income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. If rights to dividends on unvested options/awards are non-forfeitable, these unvested awards/options are considered outstanding in the computation of basic earnings per share. Diluted earnings per share reflects additional common shares that would have been outstanding if dilutive potential common shares had been issued, as well as any adjustments to income that would result from the assumed issuance. Potential common shares that may be issued by the Company relate to outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards and are determined using the treasury stock method. Treasury shares are not deemed outstanding for earnings per share calculations.

Wealth Management Assets

Wealth Management Assets

Wealth management assets held in a fiduciary or agent capacity are not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets because they are not assets of the Company.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements as part of the Company’s interest rate risk management strategy for certain assets and liabilities and not for speculative purposes. Based on the Company’s intended use for the interest rate swap at inception, the Company designates the derivative as either an economic hedge of an asset or liability or a hedging instrument subject to the hedge accounting provisions of FASB ASC Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.”

Interest rate swaps designated as economic hedges are recorded at fair value within other assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recorded directly through earnings.

For interest rate swaps that management intends to apply the hedge accounting provisions of Topic 815, the Company formally documents at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the various hedges. Additionally, the Company uses dollar offset or regression analysis at the hedge’s inception and for each reporting period thereafter, to assess whether the derivative used in its hedging transaction is expected to be and has been highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item. The Company discontinues hedge accounting when it is determined that a derivative is not expected to be or has ceased to be highly effective as a hedge, and then reflects changes in fair value of the derivative in earnings after termination of the hedge relationship.

The Company has characterized its interest rate swaps that qualify under Topic 815 hedge accounting as cash flow hedges. Cash flow hedges are used to minimize the variability in cash flows of assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions caused by interest rate fluctuations, and are recorded at fair value in other assets or liabilities within the Company’s balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of these cash flow hedges are initially recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and subsequently reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. Any hedge ineffectiveness assessed as part of the Company’s quarterly analysis is recorded directly to earnings.

The Company enters into interest rate lock commitments with borrowers, and forward commitments to sell loans or to-be-announced mortgage-backed bonds to investors to hedge against the inherent interest rate and pricing risk associated with selling loans. The interest rate lock commitments generally terminate once the loan is funded, the lock period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan. The forward commitments generally terminate once the loan is sold, the commitment period expires or the borrower decides not to contract for the loan. These commitments are considered derivatives which are accounted for by recognizing their estimated fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as either a freestanding asset or liability. See Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on interest rate lock commitments and forward commitments.

Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments

Off-Balance Sheet Financial Instruments

In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into off-balance sheet financial instruments, consisting primarily of credit related financial instruments. These financial instruments are recorded in the financial statements when they are funded or related fees are incurred or received.

Fair Value Hierarchy

Fair Value Hierarchy

The Company groups assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.

Level 1 — Valuation is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 — Valuation is based on observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.

Level 3 — Valuation is based on unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using unobservable techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.

Employee Benefits

Employee Benefits

The Company maintains an employer sponsored 401(k) plan where participants may make contributions in the form of salary deferrals and the Company provides matching contributions in accordance with the terms of the plan. Contributions due under the terms of the defined contribution plans are accrued as earned by employees.

Due to the Rome Bancorp acquisition in 2011, the Company inherited a noncontributory, qualified, defined benefit pension plan for certain employees who met age and service requirements; as well as other post-retirement benefits, principally health care and group life insurance. The Rome pension plan and postretirement benefits that were acquired in connection with the whole-bank acquisition in the second quarter of 2011 were frozen prior to the close of the transaction. The pension benefit in the form of a life annuity is based on the employee’s combined years of service, age, and compensation.

In order to measure the expense associated with the Plans, various assumptions are made including the discount rate, expected return on plan assets, anticipated mortality rates, and expected future healthcare costs. The assumptions are based on historical experience as well as current facts and circumstances. The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for its Plans. As of the measurement date, plan assets are determined based on fair value, generally representing observable market prices. The projected benefit obligation is primarily determined based on the present value of projected benefit distributions at an assumed discount rate.

Net periodic pension benefit costs include interest costs based on an assumed discount rate, the expected return on plan assets based on actuarially derived market-related values, and the amortization of net actuarial losses. Net periodic postretirement benefit costs include service costs, interest costs based on an assumed discount rate, and the amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial gains. Differences between expected and actual results in each year are included in the net actuarial gain or loss amount, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The net actuarial gain or loss in excess of a 10% corridor is amortized in net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining service period of active participants in the Plans. The prior service credit is amortized over the average remaining service period to full eligibility for participating employees expected to receive benefits.

The Company recognizes in its statement of condition an asset for a plan’s overfunded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status. The Company also measures the Plans’ assets and obligations that determine its funded status as of the end of the fiscal year and recognizes those changes in other comprehensive income, net of tax.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

ASU No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRSs.” In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04 resulting in a consistent definition of fair value and common requirements for the measurement of and disclosure about fair value between U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). The changes to U.S. GAAP as a result of ASU No. 2011-04 are as follows: (1) The concepts of highest and best use and valuation premise are only relevant when measuring the fair value of nonfinancial assets; (2) U.S. GAAP currently prohibits application of a blockage factor in valuing financial instruments with quoted prices in active markets. ASU No. 2011-04 extends that prohibition to all fair value measurements; (3) An exception is provided to the basic fair value measurement principles for an entity that holds a group of financial assets and financial liabilities with offsetting positions in market risks or counterparty credit risk that are managed on the basis of the entity’s net exposure to either of those risks. This exception allows the entity, if certain criteria are met, to measure the fair value of the net asset or liability position in a manner consistent with how market participants would price the net risk position; (4) The fair value measurement of instruments classified within an entity’s shareholders’ equity is aligned with the guidance for liabilities; and (5) Disclosure requirements have been enhanced for Level 3 fair value measurements to disclose quantitative information about unobservable inputs and assumptions used, to describe the valuation processes used by the entity, and to qualitatively describe the sensitivity of fair value measurements to changes in unobservable inputs and the interrelationships between those inputs. In addition, entities must report the level in the fair value hierarchy of items that are not measured at fair value in the statement of condition but whose fair value must be disclosed. The Company adopted the provisions of ASU No. 2011-04 effective January 1, 2012. The fair value measurement provisions of ASU No. 2011-04 had no impact on the Company’s financial statements. The required disclosures are incorporated in Note 20 to the Company’s financial statements.

ASU 2011-05, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Presentation of Comprehensive Income.” ASU 2011-05 amends Topic 220, “Comprehensive Income,” to require that all non-owner changes in stockholders’ equity be presented in either a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. Additionally, ASU 2011-05 requires entities to present, on the face of the financial statements, reclassification adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in the statement or statements where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented. The option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity was eliminated. ASU 2011-05 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011; however, certain provisions related to the presentation of reclassification adjustments have been deferred by ASU 2011-12 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05,” as further discussed below.

ASU No. 2011-08, “Testing Goodwill for Impairment”. In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-08 which will allow an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under these amendments, an entity would not be required to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit unless the entity determines, based on a qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying amount . The guidance is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance during 2012 did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.

ASU 2011-11, “Balance Sheet (Topic 210) - “Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” ASU 2011-11 amends Topic 210, “Balance Sheet,” to require an entity to disclose both gross and net information about financial instruments, such as sales and repurchase agreements and reverse sale and repurchase agreements and securities borrowing/lending arrangements, and derivative instruments that are eligible for offset in the statement of financial position and/or subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement. ASU 2011-11 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning on January 1, 2013, and is limited to matters of presentation with no impact expected on the Company’s financial statements.

ASU 2011-12 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05.” ASU 2011-12 defers changes in ASU No. 2011-05 that relate to the presentation of reclassification adjustments to allow the FASB time to redeliberate whether to require presentation of such adjustments on the face of the financial statements to show the effects of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the components of net income and other comprehensive income. ASU 2011-12 allows entities to continue to report reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income consistent with the presentation requirements in effect before ASU No. 2011-05. All other requirements in ASU No. 2011-05 are not affected by ASU No. 2011-12. ASU 2011-12 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The required disclosures are incorporated in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

ASU No. 2012-02, “Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets for Impairment”. In July 2012, the FASB issued ASU No. 2012-02, which permit an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test,. ASU No. 2012-02 is effective for annual and interim impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.

ASU 2013-01 “Balance Sheet (Topic 210) - Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities.” The ASU amends Update 2011-11 to clarify that the scope applies to derivatives, repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements, and securities borrowing and lending transactions that are either offset in accordance with Section 210-20-45 or Section 815-10-45 or subject to master netting or similar arrangements. Other types of financial assets and liabilities subject to master netting or similar arrangements are not subject to the disclosure requirements in Update 2011-11. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.

ASU 2013-02 “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) - Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income”. The ASU requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. The amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.