Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We operate under three business segments: Single-Family Credit Guaranty (“Single-Family”), Multifamily and Capital Markets. Our Single-Family segment generates revenue primarily from the guaranty fees on the mortgage loans underlying guaranteed single-family Fannie Mae mortgage-backed securities (“Fannie Mae MBS”). Our Multifamily segment generates revenue from a variety of sources, including guaranty fees on the mortgage loans underlying multifamily Fannie Mae MBS, transaction fees associated with the multifamily business and bond credit enhancement fees. Our Capital Markets segment invests in mortgage loans, mortgage-related securities and other investments, and generates income primarily from the difference, or spread, between the yield on the mortgage assets we own and the interest we pay on the debt we issue in the global capital markets to fund the purchases of these mortgage assets.

Our three reportable segments are: Single-Family, Multifamily, and Capital Markets. We use these three segments to generate revenue and manage business risk, and each segment is based on the type of business activities it performs. Under our segment reporting, the sum of the results for our three business segments does not equal our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), as we separate the activity related to our consolidated trusts from the results generated by our three segments. We also include an eliminations/adjustments category to reconcile our business segment financial results and the activity related to our consolidated trusts to net income (loss) in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block]

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The accompanying consolidated financial statements include our accounts as well as the accounts of other entities in which we have a controlling financial interest. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Single-Family Guaranty Fees 10 Basis Points Increase due to the Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act of 2011 Provision [Policy Text Block]

Effective April 1, 2012, the guaranty fee on all single-family residential mortgages delivered to Fannie Mae on or after that date for securitization was increased by 10 basis points. FHFA and Treasury have advised us to remit this fee increase to Treasury with respect to all loans acquired by us on or after April 1, 2012 and before January 1, 2022, and to continue to remit these amounts to Treasury on and after January 1, 2022 with respect to loans we acquired before this date until those loans are paid off or otherwise liquidated.

The resulting fee revenue and expense are recorded in “Mortgage loans interest income” and “Other expenses,” respectively, in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Use of Estimates

Preparing consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the dates of our consolidated financial statements, as well as our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Management has made significant estimates in a variety of areas including, but not limited to, valuation of certain financial instruments and other assets and liabilities, recoverability of our deferred tax assets, allowance for loan losses and reserve for guaranty losses, and other-than-temporary impairment of investment securities. Actual results could be different from these estimates.

Consolidations, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Principles of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include our accounts as well as the accounts of the other entities in which we have a controlling financial interest. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The typical condition for a controlling financial interest is ownership of a majority of the voting interests of an entity. A controlling financial interest may also exist in entities through arrangements that do not involve voting interests, such as a variable interest entity (“VIE”).

We have interests in various entities that are considered to be VIEs. The primary types of entities are securitization trusts guaranteed by us via lender swap and portfolio securitization transactions, mortgage and asset-backed trusts that were not created by us, as well as housing partnerships that are established to finance the acquisition, construction, development or rehabilitation of affordable multifamily and single-family housing. These interests include investments in securities issued by VIEs, such as Fannie Mae MBS created pursuant to our securitization transactions and our guaranty to the entity. We consolidate the substantial majority of our single-class securitization trusts because our role as guarantor and master servicer provides us with the power to direct matters (primarily the servicing of mortgage loans) that impact the credit risk to which we are exposed. In contrast, we do not consolidate single-class securitization trusts when other organizations have the power to direct these activities.

Unconsolidated VIEs

We do not consolidate VIEs when we are not deemed to be the primary beneficiary. Our unconsolidated VIEs include securitization trusts, as well as other investment entities.

Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]

VIE Assessment

In 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) concurrently revised the accounting guidance related to the consolidation of VIEs (the “consolidation accounting guidance”) and the guidance related to transfers of financial assets, and we adopted the revised guidance for these topics prospectively effective January 1, 2010 (the “transition date”).

We have interests in various entities that are considered VIEs. A VIE is an entity (1) that has total equity at risk that is not sufficient to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other entities, (2) where the group of equity holders does not have the power to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, or the obligation to absorb the entity’s expected losses or the right to receive the entity’s expected residual returns, or both, or (3) where the voting rights of some investors are not proportional to their obligations to absorb the expected losses of the entity, their rights to receive the expected residual returns of the entity, or both, and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve or are conducted on behalf of an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights.

We determine if an entity is a VIE by performing a qualitative analysis, which requires certain subjective decisions including, but not limited to, the design of the entity, the variability that the entity was designed to create and pass along to its interest holders, the rights of the parties, and the purpose of the arrangement. If we cannot conclude after a qualitative analysis whether an entity is a VIE, we perform a quantitative analysis.

The primary types of VIE entities with which we are involved are securitization trusts guaranteed by us via lender swap and portfolio securitization transactions, limited partnership investments in low-income housing tax credit (“LIHTC”) and other housing partnerships, as well as mortgage and asset-backed trusts that were not created by us.

Primary Beneficiary Determination

If an entity is a VIE, we consider whether our variable interest in that entity causes us to be the primary beneficiary. An enterprise is deemed to be the primary beneficiary of a VIE when the enterprise has both (1) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and (2) exposure to benefits and/or losses that could potentially be significant to the entity. The primary beneficiary of the VIE is required to consolidate and account for the assets, liabilities, and noncontrolling interests of the VIE in its consolidated financial statements. The assessment of the party that has the power to direct the activities of the VIE may require significant management judgment when (1) more than one party has power or (2) more than one party is involved in the design of the VIE but no party has the power to direct the ongoing activities that could be significant.

We continually assess whether we are the primary beneficiary of the VIEs with which we are involved and therefore may consolidate or deconsolidate a VIE through the duration of our involvement. Examples of certain events that may change whether or not we consolidate the VIE include a change in the design of the entity or a change in our ownership in the entity such that we no longer hold substantially all of the certificates issued by a multi-class resecuritization trust.

Measurement of Consolidated Assets and Liabilities

As of the transition date for the revised consolidation accounting guidance, we initially measured the assets and liabilities of the consolidated securitization trusts at their unpaid principal balances and established a corresponding valuation allowance and accrued interest, as it was not practicable to determine the carrying amount of such assets and liabilities. The securitization assets and liabilities that did not qualify for the use of this practical expedient were initially measured at fair value. As such, we recognized in our consolidated balance sheets the mortgage loans underlying our consolidated trusts as “Mortgage loans held for investment of consolidated trusts.” We also recognized securities issued by these trusts that are held by third parties in our consolidated balance sheets as “Debt of consolidated trusts.”

Subsequent to the transition date, when we are the transferor of assets into a VIE that we consolidate at the time of the transfer, we continue to recognize the assets and liabilities of the VIE at the amounts that they would have been recognized if we had not transferred them, and no gain or loss is recognized. For all other VIEs that we consolidate subsequent to transition (that is, those for which we are not the transferor), we recognize the assets and liabilities of the VIE in our consolidated financial statements at fair value, and we recognize a gain or loss for the difference between (1) the fair value of the consideration paid, fair value of noncontrolling interests and the reported amount of any previously held interests, and (2) the net amount of the fair value of the assets and liabilities consolidated. However, for the securitization trusts established under our lender swap program, no gain or loss is recognized if the trust is consolidated at formation as there is no difference in the respective fair value of (1) and (2) above. We record gains or losses that are associated with the consolidation of VIEs as “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

If we cease to be deemed the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we deconsolidate the VIE. We use fair value to measure the initial cost basis for any retained interests that are recorded upon the deconsolidation of a VIE. Any difference between the fair value and the previous carrying amount of our investment in the VIE is recorded as “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Purchase/Sale of Fannie Mae Securities

We actively purchase and may subsequently sell guaranteed MBS that have been issued through our lender swap and portfolio securitization transaction programs. The accounting for the purchase and sale of our guaranteed MBS issued by the trusts differs based on the characteristics of the securitization trusts and whether the trusts are consolidated.

Single-Class Securitization Trusts

We create single-class securitization trusts to issue single-class Fannie Mae MBS that evidence an undivided interest in the mortgage loans held in the trust. Investors in single-class Fannie Mae MBS receive principal and interest payments in proportion to their percentage ownership of the MBS issuance. We guarantee to each single-class securitization trust that we will supplement amounts received by the single-class securitization trust as required to permit timely payments of principal and interest on the related Fannie Mae MBS. This guaranty exposes us to credit losses on the loans underlying Fannie Mae MBS.

Single-class securitization trusts are used for both our lender swap and portfolio securitization transaction programs. A lender swap transaction occurs when a mortgage lender delivers a pool of single-family mortgage loans to us, which we immediately deposit into an MBS trust. The MBS are then issued to the lender in exchange for the mortgage loans. A portfolio securitization transaction occurs when we purchase mortgage loans from third-party sellers for cash and later deposit these loans into an MBS trust. The securities issued through a portfolio securitization are then sold to investors for cash. We consolidate single-class securitization trusts that are issued under these programs when our role as guarantor and master servicer provides us with the power to direct matters, such as the servicing of the mortgage loans, that impact the credit risk to which we are exposed. In contrast, we do not consolidate single-class securitization trusts when other organizations have the power to direct these activities (e.g., when the loan collateral is subject to an FHA guarantee and related Servicing Guide).

When we purchase single-class Fannie Mae MBS issued from a consolidated trust, we account for the transaction as an extinguishment of the related debt in our consolidated financial statements. We record a gain or loss on the extinguishment of such debt to the extent that the purchase price of the MBS does not equal the carrying value of the related consolidated debt reported in our consolidated balance sheets (including unamortized premiums, discounts or the other cost basis adjustments) at the time of purchase. We account for the sale of an MBS from Fannie Mae’s portfolio that was issued from a consolidated trust as the issuance of debt in our consolidated financial statements. We amortize the related premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments into income over time.

To determine the order in which consolidated debt is extinguished, we have elected to use a daily convention in the application of the last-issued first-extinguished method. Under this method, we record the net daily change in each MBS holding as either the issuance of debt if there has been an increase in the position that is held by third parties, or the extinguishment of the most recently issued related debt if there has been a decrease in the position held by third parties. The impact of this method is that we record the net daily activity for an MBS as if it were a single buy or sell trade, which results in a change in our beginning debt balance if the total unpaid principal balance purchased does not match the total unpaid principal balance sold.

If a single-class securitization trust is not consolidated, we account for the purchase and subsequent sale of such securities as the transfer of an investment security in accordance with the accounting guidance for transfers of financial assets.

Single-Class Resecuritization Trusts

Single-class resecuritization trusts are created by depositing Fannie Mae MBS into a new securitization trust for the purpose of aggregating multiple MBS into a single larger security. The cash flows from the new security represent an aggregation of the cash flows from the underlying MBS. We guarantee to each single-class resecuritization trust that we will supplement amounts received by the trust as required to permit timely payments of principal and interest on the related Fannie Mae securities. However, we assume no additional credit risk in such a resecuritization transaction, because the underlying assets are MBS for which we have already provided a guaranty. Additionally, our involvement with these trusts does not provide any incremental rights or power that would enable Fannie Mae to direct any activities of the trusts. As a result, we have concluded that we are not the primary beneficiaries of, and therefore do not consolidate, our single-class resecuritization trusts.

As our single-class resecuritization securities pass through all of the cash flows of the underlying MBS directly to the holders of the securities, they are deemed to be substantially the same as the underlying MBS. Therefore, we account for purchases of our single-class resecuritization securities as an extinguishment of the underlying MBS debt and the sale of these securities as an issuance of the underlying MBS debt.

Multi-Class Resecuritization Trusts

Multi-class resecuritization trusts are trusts we create to issue multi-class Fannie Mae securities, including Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit (“REMIC”) and strip securities, in which the cash flows of the underlying mortgage assets are divided, creating several classes of securities, each of which represents a beneficial ownership interest in a separate portion of cash flows. We guarantee to each multi-class resecuritization trust that we will supplement amounts received by the trusts as required to permit timely payments of principal and interest, as applicable, on the related Fannie Mae securities. However, we assume no additional credit risk in such a resecuritization transaction because the underlying assets are Fannie Mae MBS for which we have already provided a guaranty. Although we may be exposed to prepayment risk via our ownership of the securities issued by these trusts, we do not have the ability via our involvement with a multi-class resecuritization trust to impact the economic risk to which we are exposed. Therefore, we do not consolidate such a multi-class resecuritization trust until we hold a substantial portion of the outstanding beneficial interests that have been issued by the trust and are therefore considered the primary beneficiary of the trust.

In contrast to our single-class resecuritization trust, the cash flows from the underlying MBS are divided between the debt securities issued by the multi-class resecuritization trust, and therefore, the debt issued by a multi-class resecuritization trust is not substantially the same as the consolidated MBS debt. As a result, if a multi-class resecuritization trust is not consolidated, we account for the purchase and sale of such securities as the transfer of an investment security in accordance with the accounting guidance for the transfers of financial assets rather than the issuance or extinguishment of the related multi-class debt. However, if a multi-class resecuritization trust is consolidated, we account for the purchase of the securities issued by consolidated multi-class resecuritization trusts as an extinguishment of the debt issued by these trusts and the subsequent sale of such securities as the issuance of multi-class debt.

When we do not consolidate a multi-class resecuritization trust, we recognize in our consolidated financial statements both our investment in the trust and the mortgage loans of the Fannie Mae MBS trusts that we consolidate that underlie the multi-class resecuritization trust. Additionally, we recognize the unsecured corporate debt issued to third parties to fund the purchase of our investments in the multi-class resecuritization trusts and the debt issued to third parties of the MBS trusts we consolidate that underlie the multi-class resecuritization trusts. This results in the recognition of interest income from investments in multi-class resecuritization trusts and interest expense from the unsecured debt issued to third parties to fund the purchase of the investments in multi-class resecuritization trusts, as well as interest income from the mortgage loans and interest expense from the debt issued to third parties from the MBS trusts we consolidate that underlie the multi-class resecuritization trusts.

Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We evaluate a transfer of financial assets to determine whether the transfer qualifies as a sale. If the transfer does not meet the criteria for sale treatment, the transferred assets remain in our consolidated balance sheets and we record a liability to the extent of any proceeds received in connection with such a transfer. Transfers of financial assets for which we surrender control of the transferred assets are recorded as sales.

When a transfer that qualifies as a sale is completed, we derecognize all assets transferred and recognize all assets obtained and liabilities incurred at fair value. The difference between the carrying basis of the assets transferred and the fair value of the proceeds from the sale is recorded as a component of “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Retained interests are primarily derived from transfers associated with our portfolio securitizations in the form of Fannie Mae MBS, REMIC certificates, guaranty assets and master servicing assets (“MSAs”). We separately describe the subsequent accounting, as well as how we determine fair value, for our retained interests in the Fannie Mae MBS included in “Investments in Securities” section of this note.

We enter into dollar roll transactions, which involve contemporaneous purchase and sale trades of agency securities, traded on a “to-be-announced” basis. When we enter into such agreements, we first account for our forward commitments to buy and sell the agency securities as derivatives in our financial statements at the trade date for both the purchase and sales trades. For certain dollar roll transactions, we may fully or partially settle the forward purchase or sale subsequent to the trade date, but prior to the contractual settlement date such that all or a portion of the securities will not be delivered according to the terms of the original trade. When such a settlement occurs, the contemporaneous purchase and sale trades no longer meet the “substantially the same” criteria as necessary for secured financing treatment, and the remaining transfers are accounted for as purchases or sales of securities. Purchased securities are initially recognized at fair value and accounted for as described in “Investment in Securities” section of this note.

For those commitments that are not settled prior to the contractual settlement date for the first trade, we assess whether both the purchase and sale trades have the same primary obligor, form and type, maturity, interest rate, collateral, and unpaid principal balance, and thus meet all of the criteria to be considered substantially the same. If the “substantially the same” criteria are met as of the settlement date for the first trade, we will account for the transaction as a secured financing and extinguish both the purchase and sale commitments as of that date. Dollar roll transactions involving transfers of securities issued by consolidated MBS trusts are accounted for as issuances or extinguishments of the related consolidated MBS debt in our consolidated financial statements.

We also enter into other repurchase agreements that involve contemporaneous trades to purchase and sell securities. These transactions are accounted for as secured financings since the transferor has not relinquished control over the transferred assets. These transactions are reported as securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase in our consolidated balance sheets except for securities purchased under agreements to resell on an overnight basis, which are included in cash and cash equivalents in our consolidated balance sheets.

Transfers of Financial Assets

We issue Fannie Mae MBS through portfolio securitization transactions by transferring pools of mortgage loans or mortgage-related securities to one or more trusts or special purpose entities. We are considered to be the transferor when we transfer assets from our own portfolio in a portfolio securitization transaction

Qualifying Sales of Portfolio Securitizations

As we consolidate the substantial majority of our single-class MBS trusts, these portfolio securitization transactions do not qualify for sale treatment. Therefore, the assets and liabilities of consolidated trusts created via portfolio securitization transactions that do not qualify as sales are reported in our consolidated balance sheets.

We recognize assets obtained and liabilities incurred in qualifying sales of portfolio securitizations at fair value.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Statements of Cash Flows

Short-term investments that have a maturity at the date of acquisition of three months or less and are readily convertible to known amounts of cash are generally considered cash equivalents. We also include securities purchased under agreements to resell on an overnight basis in cash and cash equivalents in our consolidated balance sheets. We may pledge as collateral certain short-term investments classified as cash equivalents.

In the presentation of our consolidated statements of cash flows, we present cash flows from derivatives that do not contain financing elements and mortgage loans held for sale as operating activities. We present cash flows from federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell or similar arrangements as investing activities and cash flows from federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase as financing activities. We classify cash flows related to dollar roll transactions that do not meet the requirements to be accounted for as secured borrowings as purchases and sales of securities in investing activities. We classify cash flows from trading securities based on their nature and purpose. We classify cash flows from trading securities that we intend to hold for investment (the majority of our mortgage-related trading securities) as investing activities and cash flows from trading securities that we do not intend to hold for investment (primarily our non-mortgage-related securities) as operating activities.

For consolidated trusts, we classify cash flows related to mortgage loans held by our consolidated trusts as either investing activities (for principal repayments) or operating activities (for interest received from borrowers included as a component of our net income (loss). Cash flows related to debt securities issued by consolidated trusts are classified as either financing activities (for repayments of principal to certificateholders) or operating activities (for interest payments to certificateholders included as a component of our net income (loss). We distinguish between the payments and proceeds related to the debt of Fannie Mae and the debt of consolidated trusts, as applicable. We present our non-cash activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows at the associated unpaid principal balance.

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Restricted Cash

We and our servicers advance payments on delinquent loans to consolidated Fannie Mae MBS trusts. We recognize the cash advanced as “Restricted cash” in our consolidated balance sheets to the extent such amounts are due to, but have not yet been remitted to, the MBS certificateholders. In addition, when we or our servicers collect and hold cash that is due to certain Fannie Mae MBS trusts in advance of our requirement to remit these amounts to the trusts, we recognize the collected cash amounts as “Restricted cash.”

We also recognize “Restricted cash” as a result of restrictions related to certain consolidated partnership funds as well as for certain collateral arrangements for which we do not have the right to use the cash.

Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Investments in Securities

Securities Classified as Available-for-Sale or Trading

We classify and account for our securities as either available-for-sale (“AFS”) or trading. We measure AFS securities at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets, with unrealized gains and losses included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” (“AOCI”), net of applicable income taxes. We recognize realized gains and losses on AFS securities when securities are sold. We calculate the gains and losses using the specific identification method and record them in “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). We measure trading securities at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets with unrealized and realized gains and losses included as a component of “Fair value losses, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). We include interest and dividends on securities, including amortization of the premium and discount at acquisition, in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). When we receive multiple deliveries of securities on the same day that are backed by the same pools of loans, we calculate the specific cost of each security as the average price of the trades that delivered those securities. Currently, we do not have any securities classified as held-to-maturity, although we may elect to do so in the future.

Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other-Than-Temporary Impairment of Debt Securities

We evaluate available-for-sale securities for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis. An other-than-temporary impairment is considered to have occurred when the fair value of a debt security is below its amortized cost basis and we intend to sell or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery. We recognize in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), the entire difference between the amortized cost basis of the security and its fair value. An other-than-temporary impairment is also considered to have occurred if we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of a debt security even if we do not intend or it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell the security before recovery. We separate the difference between the amortized cost basis of the security and its fair value into the amount representing the credit loss, which we recognize in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), and the amount related to all other factors, which we recognize in “Other comprehensive income (loss),” net of applicable taxes. In determining whether a credit loss exists, we use our best estimate of cash flows expected to be collected from the debt security.

We consider guarantees, insurance contracts or other credit enhancements (such as collateral) in determining our best estimate of cash flows expected to be collected only if (1) such guarantees, insurance contracts or other credit enhancements provide for payments to be made solely to reimburse us for failure of the issuer to satisfy its required payment obligations, (2) such guarantees, insurance contracts or other credit enhancements are contractually attached to the security and (3) collection of the amounts receivable under these agreements is deemed probable. Guarantees, insurance contracts or other credit enhancements are considered contractually attached if they are part of and trade with the security upon transfer of the security to a third party.

In periods after we recognize an other-than-temporary impairment of debt securities, we use the prospective interest method to recognize interest income. Under the prospective interest method, we calculate a new effective yield for subsequent recognition of interest income and measurement of impairment when we determine that there has been a significant increase in expected or actual cash flows. We consider a significant increase in cash flows to be at least a ten percent increase over two consecutive quarters of the expected or actual cash flows. We calculate the new effective yield by using the new cost basis and the significantly increased actual or expected cash flows.

Available-for-Sale Securities

We measure AFS securities at fair value with unrealized gains and losses recorded net of tax as a component of “Other comprehensive income (loss)” and we record realized gains and losses from the sale of AFS securities in “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

We recognize the credit component of other-than-temporary impairments of our debt securities in “Net other-than-temporary impairments” and the noncredit component in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for those securities that we do not intend to sell and for which it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell before recovery.

Finance, Loan and Lease Receivables, Held-for-investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Loans Held for Investment

When we acquire mortgage loans that we have the ability and the intent to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity, we classify the loans as held for investment (“HFI”). When we consolidate a trust, we recognize the loans underlying the trust in our consolidated balance sheets. The trusts do not have the ability to sell mortgage loans and the use of such loans is limited exclusively to the settlement of obligations of the trusts. Therefore, mortgages acquired when we have the intent to securitize via trusts that are consolidated will generally be classified as HFI in our consolidated balance sheets both prior to and subsequent to their securitization.

We report HFI loans at their outstanding unpaid principal balance adjusted for any deferred and unamortized cost basis adjustments, including purchase premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments. We recognize interest income on HFI loans on an accrual basis using the interest method, including the amortization of any deferred cost basis adjustments, unless we determine that the ultimate collection of contractual principal or interest payments in full is not reasonably assured.

Finance, Loan and Lease Receivables, Held-for-sale, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Loans Held for Sale

When we acquire mortgage loans that we intend to sell or securitize via trusts that will not be consolidated, we classify the loans as held for sale (“HFS”). We report HFS loans at the lower of cost or fair value. Any excess of an HFS loan’s cost over its fair value is recognized as a valuation allowance, with changes in the valuation allowance recognized as “Investment gains, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). We recognize interest income on HFS loans on an accrual basis, unless we determine that the ultimate collection of contractual principal or interest payments in full is not reasonably assured. Purchased premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments on HFS loans are deferred upon loan acquisition, included in the cost basis of the loan, and not amortized. We determine any lower of cost or fair value adjustment on HFS loans on a pool basis by aggregating those loans based on similar risks and characteristics, such as product types and interest rates.

In the event that we reclassify HFS loans to HFI, we record the loans at lower of cost or fair value on the date of reclassification. We recognize any lower of cost or fair value adjustment recognized upon reclassification as a basis adjustment to the HFI loan.

Nonaccrual Loans [Policy Text Block]

Nonaccrual Loans

We discontinue accruing interest on loans when we believe collectibility of principal or interest is not reasonably assured, which for single-family loans we have determined, based on our historical experience, to be when the loan becomes two months or more past due according to its contractual terms. We generally place multifamily loans on nonaccrual status when the loan is deemed to be individually impaired, unless the loan is well secured such that collectibility of principal and accrued interest is reasonably assured.

When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest previously accrued but not collected becomes part of our recorded investment in the loan and is collectively reviewed for impairment. For single-family loans, we recognize interest income for loans on nonaccrual status when cash is received. For multifamily loans, we apply any payment received on a cost recovery basis to reduce principal on the mortgage loan unless the loan is determined to be well secured.

We return a single-family loan to accrual status at the point that the borrower has made sufficient payments to reduce their delinquency below our nonaccrual threshold. For modified single-family loans, the loan is not returned to accrual status until the borrower successfully makes all required payments during the trial period (generally three to four months) and the modification is made permanent. We generally return a multifamily loan to accrual status when the borrower cures the delinquency of the loan or we otherwise determine that the loan is well secured such that collectibility is reasonably assured.

Troubled Debt Restructurings [Policy Text Block]

Restructured Loans

A modification to the contractual terms of a loan that results in granting a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties is considered a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”). Our loss mitigation programs primarily include modifications that result in the capitalization of past due amounts in combination with interest rate reductions below market and/or the extension of the loan’s maturity date. Such restructurings are granted to borrowers in financial difficulty on either a permanent or contingent basis, as in the case of modifications with a trial period. We consider these types of loan restructurings to be TDRs.

We do not currently include principal or past due interest forgiveness as part of our loss mitigation programs, and as a result, we do not charge off any outstanding principal or accrued interest amounts at the time of loan modification. We believe that the loan underwriting activities we perform as a part of our loan modification process coupled with the borrower’s successful performance during any required trial period provide us reasonable assurance regarding the collectibility of the principal and interest due in accordance with the loan’s modified terms, which include any past due interest amounts that are capitalized at the time of modification. As such, the loan is returned to accrual status when the loan modification is completed (i.e., at the end of the trial period), and we accrue interest thereafter in accordance with our interest accrual policy. If the loan was on nonaccrual status prior to entering the trial period, it remains on nonaccrual status until the borrower demonstrates performance via the trial period and the modification is finalized.

In addition to these loan modifications, we also engage in other loss mitigation activities with troubled borrowers, which include repayment plans, forbearance arrangements, and the capitalization only of past due amounts. Repayment plans and forbearance arrangements are informal agreements with the borrower that do not result in the legal modification of the loan. For all of these activities, we consider the deferral or capitalization of three or fewer missed payments to represent only an insignificant delay, and thus not a TDR. If we defer or capitalize more than three missed payments, the delay is no longer considered insignificant, and the restructuring is accounted for as a TDR.

We measure impairment of a loan restructured in a TDR individually based on the excess of the recorded investment in the loan over the present value of the expected future cash inflows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate. Costs incurred to complete a TDR are expensed as incurred. However, when foreclosure is probable on an individually impaired loan, we measure impairment based on the difference between our recorded investment in the loan and the fair value of the underlying property, adjusted for the estimated costs to sell the property and estimated insurance or other proceeds we expect to receive.

A modification to the contractual terms of a loan that results in granting a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties is considered a TDR. In addition to formal loan modifications, we also engage in other loss mitigation activities with troubled borrowers, which include repayment plans and forbearance arrangements, both of which represent informal agreements with the borrower that do not result in the legal modification of the loan’s contractual terms. We account for these informal restructurings as a TDR if we defer more than three missed payments.

Allowance for Loan Losses [Policy Text Block]

Allowance for Loan Losses and Reserve for Guaranty Losses

Our allowance for loan losses is a valuation allowance that reflects an estimate of incurred credit losses related to our recorded investment in both single-family and multifamily HFI loans. This population includes both HFI loans held by Fannie Mae and by consolidated Fannie Mae MBS trusts. When calculating our loan loss allowance, we consider only our net recorded investment in the loan at the balance sheet date, which includes the loan’s unpaid principal balance and accrued interest recognized while the loan was on accrual status and any applicable cost basis adjustments. We record charge-offs as a reduction to the allowance for loan losses when losses are confirmed through the receipt of assets in full satisfaction of a loan, such as the underlying collateral upon foreclosure or cash upon completion of a short sale. We recognize incurred losses by recording a charge to the provision for loan losses, which is a component of “Benefit (provision) for credit losses” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Impaired Financing Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Single-Family Loans

We recognize credit losses related to groups of similar single-family HFI loans that are not individually impaired when (1) available information as of each balance sheet date indicates that it is probable a loss has occurred and (2) the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We aggregate such loans, based on similar risk characteristics, for purposes of estimating incurred credit losses and establish a collective single-family loss reserve using an econometric model that derives an overall loss reserve estimate. The estimate takes into account multiple factors which include but are not limited to origination year, loan product type, mark-to-market loan-to-value (“LTV”) ratio; and delinquency status. Once loans are aggregated, there typically is not a single, distinct event that would result in an individual loan or pool of loans being impaired. Accordingly, to determine an estimate of incurred credit losses, we base our allowance and reserve methodology on historical events and trends, such as loss severity (in event of default), default rates, and recoveries from mortgage insurance contracts and other credit enhancements that provide loan level loss coverage and are either contractually attached to a loan or that were entered into contemporaneously with and in contemplation of a guaranty or loan purchase transaction. In determining our collective reserve, we use recent actual severity experienced in our real-estate owned (“REO”) and loss mitigation operations, including the sales of our own foreclosed properties, to estimate the loss given default. Our allowance calculation also incorporates a loss confirmation period (the anticipated time lag between a credit loss event and the confirmation of the credit loss resulting from that event) to ensure our allowance estimate captures credit losses that have been incurred as of the balance sheet date but have not been confirmed. In addition, management performs a review of the observable data used in its estimate to ensure it is representative of prevailing economic conditions and other events existing as of the balance sheet date.

We record charge-offs as a reduction to the allowance for loan losses or reserve for guaranty losses when losses are confirmed through the receipt of assets in full satisfaction of a loan, such as the underlying collateral upon foreclosure or cash upon completion of a short sale. The excess of a loan’s unpaid principal balance, accrued interest, and any applicable cost basis adjustments (“our total exposure”) over the fair value of the assets received is treated as a charge-off loss that is deducted from the allowance for loan losses or reserve for guaranty losses. The amount charged off also considers estimated proceeds from primary mortgage insurance or other credit enhancements that are either contractually attached to a loan or that were entered into contemporaneously with and in contemplation of a guaranty or loan purchase transaction as a recovery of our total exposure, up to the amount of loss recognized as a charge-off. We record additional proceeds from primary mortgage insurance and credit enhancements in excess of our total exposure as a recovery of any forgone contractually past due interest, and then as an offset to the expenses recorded in “Foreclosed property (income) expense” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) when received.

Individually Impaired Single-Family Loans

Individually impaired single-family loans currently include those restructured in a TDR and acquired credit-impaired loans. We consider a loan to be impaired when, based on current information, it is probable that we will not receive all amounts due, including interest, in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When making our assessment as to whether a loan is impaired, we also take into account more than insignificant delays in payment and shortfalls in amounts received. Determination of whether a delay in payment or shortfall in amount is more than insignificant requires management’s judgment as to the facts and circumstances surrounding the loan.

Our measurement of impairment on an individually impaired loan follows the method that is most consistent with our expectations of recovery of our recorded investment in the loan. When a loan has been restructured, we measure impairment using a cash flow analysis discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate. If we expect to recover our recorded investment in an individually impaired loan through probable foreclosure of the underlying collateral, we measure impairment based on the fair value of the collateral, reduced by estimated disposal costs on a discounted basis and adjusted for estimated proceeds from mortgage, flood, or hazard insurance or similar sources. For individually impaired loans that we believe are probable of foreclosure, we take into consideration the sales prices of foreclosed properties in determining the value of the underlying real estate collateral.

We use internal models to project cash flows used to assess impairment of individually impaired loans, and generally update the market and loan characteristic inputs we use in these models monthly, using month-end data. Market inputs include information such as interest rates, volatility and spreads, while loan characteristic inputs include information such as mark-to-market LTV ratios and delinquency status. The loan characteristic inputs are key factors that affect the predicted rate of default for loans evaluated for impairment through our internal cash flow models. For example, loans with an unsuccessful trial modification, which are often accompanied by high delinquency rates, have much higher predicted default rates compared to performing loans with completed modifications, particularly those with a significant payment reduction in the borrower’s required monthly payment. We evaluate the reasonableness of our models by comparing the results with actual performance and our assessment of current market conditions. In addition, we review our models at least annually for reasonableness and predictive ability in accordance with our corporate model review policy. Accordingly, we believe the projected cash flows generated by our models that we use to assess impairment appropriately reflect the expected future performance of the loans.

Multifamily Loans

We identify multifamily loans for evaluation for impairment through a credit risk assessment process. Based on this evaluation, we determine for loans that are not in homogeneous pools whether or not a loan is individually impaired. We consider a loan to be individually impaired when, based on current information gathered in our risk assessment process, it is probable that we will not receive all amounts due, including interest, in accordance with the contractual terms of the loan agreement. If we determine that a multifamily loan is individually impaired, we generally measure impairment on that loan based on the fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated costs to sell the property. If we determine that an individual loan that was specifically evaluated for impairment is not individually impaired, we include the loan as part of a pool of loans with similar characteristics that are evaluated collectively for incurred losses.

We stratify multifamily loans into different internal risk categories based on the credit risk inherent in each individual loan. We categorize loan credit risk based on relevant observable data about a borrower’s ability to pay, including multifamily market economic fundamentals, review of available current borrower financial information, operating statements on the underlying collateral, current debt service coverage ratios, historical payment experience, estimates of the current collateral values and other related credit documentation. As a result of this analysis, multifamily loans are categorized based on management’s judgment into the following categories: (1) Green (loan with acceptable risk); (2) Yellow (loan with signs of potential weakness); (3) Orange (loan with a well-defined weakness that may jeopardize the timely full repayment); and (4) Red (loan with a weakness that makes timely collection or liquidation in full more questionable based on existing conditions and values). We evaluate loans in the orange and red risk categories to determine which ones are individually impaired.

For each risk category, certain observed default probability and loss severity (in event of default) factors, based on historical performance of loans in the same risk category, are applied against our recorded investment in the loans, including recorded accrued interest associated with such loans, to determine an appropriate allowance. Such performance data reflect historical delinquencies and charge-offs, as well as loan size. In addition, we consider any credit enhancements such as letters of credit or loss sharing arrangements with our lenders

Advances to Lenders [Policy Text Block]

Advances to Lenders

Advances to lenders represent our payments of cash in exchange for the receipt of mortgage loans from lenders in a transfer that is accounted for as a secured lending arrangement. These transfers primarily occur when we provide early funding to lenders for loans that they will subsequently either sell to us or securitize into a Fannie Mae MBS that they will deliver to us. We individually negotiate early lender funding advances with our lender customers. Early lender funding advances have terms up to 60 days and earn a short-term market rate of interest.

We report cash outflows from advances to lenders as an investing activity in our consolidated statements of cash flows. Settlements of the advances to lenders, other than through lender repurchases of loans, are not collected in cash, but rather in the receipt of either loans or Fannie Mae MBS. Accordingly, this activity is reflected as a non-cash transfer in our consolidated statements of cash flows in the line item entitled “Transfers from advances to lenders to loans held for investment of consolidated trusts.”

Finance, Loan and Lease Receivables, Held for Investments, Foreclosed Assets Policy [Policy Text Block]

Acquired Property, Net

“Acquired property, net” includes foreclosed property and any receivable outstanding on short sales received in full satisfaction of a loan. We recognize foreclosed property upon the earlier of the loan foreclosure event or when we take physical possession of the property (i.e., through a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure transaction). We initially measure foreclosed property at its fair value less its estimated costs to sell. We treat any excess of our recorded investment in the loan over the fair value less estimated costs to sell the property as a charge-off to the “Allowance for loan losses.” Any excess of the fair value less estimated costs to sell the property over our recorded investment in the loan is recognized first to recover any forgone, contractually due interest, then to “Foreclosed property (income) expense” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

We classify foreclosed properties as held for sale when we intend to sell the property and the following conditions are met at either acquisition or within a relatively short period thereafter: we are actively marketing the property and it is available for immediate sale in its current condition such that the sale is reasonably expected to take place within one year. We report these properties at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less estimated selling costs, on a discounted basis if the sale is expected to occur beyond one year from the date of foreclosure. We do not depreciate these properties.

We recognize a loss for any subsequent write-down of the property to its fair value less its estimated costs to sell through a valuation allowance with an offsetting charge to “Foreclosed property (income) expense” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). We recognize a recovery for any subsequent increase in fair value less estimated costs to sell up to the cumulative loss previously recognized through the valuation allowance. We recognize gains or losses on sales of foreclosed property through “Foreclosed property (income) expense” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Properties that do not meet the criteria to be classified as held for sale are classified as held for use and are recorded in “Other assets” in our consolidated balance sheets. These properties are depreciated and are evaluated for impairment when circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the property is no longer recoverable

Amortization of Cost Basis Adjustments [Policy Text Block]

Amortization of Cost Basis Adjustments

We generally amortize cost basis adjustments, including premiums and discounts on mortgage loans and securities, as a yield adjustment using the interest method over the contractual term of the loan or security. We amortize these cost basis adjustments into interest income for mortgage securities and for loans we classify as HFI. We do not amortize cost basis adjustments for loans that we classify as HFS, but include them in the calculation of the gain or loss on the sale of those loans.

We cease amortization of cost basis adjustments during periods in which we are not recognizing interest income on a loan because the collection of the principal and interest payments is not reasonably assured (that is, when the loan is placed on nonaccrual status)

Commitments to Purchase and Sell Mortgage Loans and Securities [Policy Text Block]

Commitments to Purchase and Sell Mortgage Loans and Securities

We enter into commitments to purchase and sell mortgage-backed securities and to purchase single-family and multifamily mortgage loans. Certain commitments to purchase or sell mortgage-backed securities and to purchase single-family mortgage loans are generally accounted for as derivatives. Our commitments to purchase multifamily loans are not accounted for as derivatives because they do not meet the criteria for net settlement.

When derivative purchase commitments settle, we include the fair value on the settlement date in the cost basis of the loan or unconsolidated security we purchase. When derivative commitments to sell securities settle, we include the fair value of the commitment on the settlement date in the cost basis of the security we sell. Purchases and sales of securities issued by our consolidated MBS trusts are treated as extinguishment or issuance of debt, respectively. For commitments to purchase and sell securities issued by our consolidated MBS trusts, we recognize the fair value of the commitment on the settlement date as a component of debt extinguishment gains and losses or in the cost basis of the debt issued, respectively.

Regular-way securities trades provide for delivery of securities within the time generally established by regulations or conventions in the market in which the trade occurs and are exempt from application of the derivative accounting literature. Commitments to purchase or sell securities that we account for on a trade-date basis are also exempt from the derivative accounting requirements. We record the purchase and sale of an existing security on its trade date when the commitment to purchase or sell the existing security settles within the period of time that is customary in the market in which those trades take place.

Additionally, contracts for the forward purchase or sale of when-issued and to-be-announced (“TBA”) securities are exempt from the derivative accounting requirements if there is no other way to purchase or sell that security, delivery of that security and settlement will occur within the shortest period possible for that type of security, and it is probable at inception and throughout the term of the individual contract that physical delivery of the security will occur. Since our commitments for the purchase of when-issued and TBA securities can be net settled and we do not document that physical settlement is probable, we account for all such commitments as derivatives.

Commitments to purchase securities that we do not account for as derivatives and do not require trade-date accounting are accounted for as forward contracts to purchase securities. We designate these commitments as AFS or trading at inception and account for them in a manner consistent with that category of securities.

Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets at their fair value on a trade date basis. We report derivatives in a gain position after offsetting by counterparty in “Other assets” and derivatives in a loss position after offsetting by counterparty in “Other liabilities” in our consolidated balance sheets.

Derivative instruments are an integral part of our strategy in managing interest rate risk. Derivative instruments may be privately negotiated contracts, which are often referred to as over-the-counter derivatives, or they may be listed and traded on an exchange. When deciding whether to use derivatives, we consider a number of factors, such as cost, efficiency, the effect on our liquidity, results of operations, and our overall interest rate risk management strategy. We use derivatives when we believe they will provide greater relative value or more efficient execution of our strategy than debt securities. We typically do not settle the notional amount of our risk management derivatives; rather, notional amounts provide the basis for calculating actual payments or settlement amounts. The derivatives we use for interest rate risk management purposes consist primarily of contracts that fall into the following broad categories:

• Interest rate swap contracts. An interest rate swap is a transaction between two parties in which each party agrees to exchange payments tied to different interest rates or indices for a specified period of time, generally based on a notional amount of principal. The types of interest rate swaps we use include pay-fixed swaps, receive-fixed swaps and basis swaps.

• Interest rate option contracts. These contracts primarily include pay-fixed swaptions, receive-fixed swaptions, cancelable swaps and interest rate caps. A swaption is an option contract that allows us or a counterparty to enter into a pay-fixed or receive-fixed swap at some point in the future.

We enter into forward commitments to purchase mortgage loans and to purchase or sell mortgage-related securities that lock in the future delivery of these instruments at a fixed price or yield. Certain commitments to purchase mortgage loans and purchase or sell mortgage-related securities meet the criteria to be accounted for as derivatives. We typically settle the notional amount of our mortgage loan commitments that are accounted for as a derivative.

Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We offset the carrying amounts of certain derivatives that are in gain positions and loss positions with the same counterparty as well as cash collateral receivables and payables associated with derivative positions under master netting arrangements. We offset these amounts only when we have the legal right to offset under the contract and we have met all the offsetting conditions.

Derivatives, Embedded Derivatives [Policy Text Block]

We evaluate financial instruments that we purchase or issue and other financial and non-financial contracts for embedded derivatives. To identify embedded derivatives that we must account for separately, we determine if: (1) the economic characteristics of the embedded derivative are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the financial instrument or other contract (i.e., the hybrid contract); (2) the financial instrument or other contract itself is not already measured at fair value with changes in fair value included in earnings; and (3) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would meet the definition of a derivative. If the embedded derivative meets all three of these conditions we elect to carry the hybrid contract in its entirety at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings.

Repurchase Agreements, Collateral, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Collateral

We enter into various transactions where we pledge and accept collateral, the most common of which are our derivative transactions. Required collateral levels vary depending on the credit rating and type of counterparty. We also pledge and receive collateral under our repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements. In order to reduce potential exposure to repurchase counterparties, a third-party custodian typically maintains the collateral and any margin. We monitor the fair value of the collateral received from our counterparties, and we may require additional collateral from those counterparties, as we deem appropriate.

Cash Collateral

We record cash collateral accepted from a counterparty that we have the right to use as “Cash and cash equivalents” and cash collateral accepted from a counterparty that we do not have the right to use as “Restricted cash” in our consolidated balance sheets. We net our obligation to return cash collateral pledged to us against the fair value of derivatives in a gain position recorded in “Other assets” in our consolidated balance sheets as part of our counterparty netting calculation.

For derivative positions with the same counterparty under master netting arrangements where we pledge cash collateral, we remove it from “Cash and cash equivalents” and net the right to receive it against the fair value of derivatives in a loss position recorded in “Other liabilities” in our consolidated balance sheets as a part of our counterparty netting calculation.

Non-Cash Collateral

We classify securities pledged to counterparties as either “Investments in securities” or “Cash and cash equivalents” in our consolidated balance sheets. Securities pledged to counterparties that have been consolidated with the underlying assets recognized as loans are included as “Mortgage loans” in our consolidated balance sheets.

Our liability to third party holders of Fannie Mae MBS that arises as the result of a consolidation of a securitization trust is collateralized by the underlying loans and/or mortgage related securities.

Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Debt

Our consolidated balance sheets contain debt of Fannie Mae as well as debt of consolidated trusts. Effective January 1, 2011, we reported debt issued by us as “Debt of Fannie Mae” and by consolidated trusts as “Debt of consolidated trusts.” Debt issued by us represents debt that we issue to third parties to fund our general business activities. The debt of consolidated trusts represents the amount of Fannie Mae MBS issued from such trusts which is held by third-party certificateholders and prepayable without penalty at any time. We report deferred items, including premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments, as adjustments to the related debt balances in our consolidated balance sheets. We remeasure the carrying amount, accrued interest and basis adjustments of debt denominated in a foreign currency into U.S. dollars using foreign exchange spot rates as of the balance sheet dates and report any associated gains or losses as a component of “Fair value losses, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

When we purchase a Fannie Mae MBS issued from a consolidated single-class securitization trust, we extinguish the related debt of the consolidated trust as the MBS debt is no longer owed to a third-party. We record debt extinguishment gains or losses related to debt of consolidated trusts to the extent that the purchase price of the MBS does not equal the carrying value of the related consolidated MBS debt reported in our balance sheets (including unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments) at the time of purchase.

Interest Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We classify interest expense as either short-term or long-term based on the contractual maturity of the related debt. We recognize the amortization of premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments through interest expense using the effective interest method usually over the contractual term of the debt. Amortization of premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments begins at the time of debt issuance. We remeasure interest expense for debt denominated in a foreign currency into U.S. dollars using the daily spot rates. The difference in rates arising from the month-end spot exchange rate used to calculate the interest accruals and the daily spot rates used to record the interest expense is a foreign currency transaction gain or loss for the period and is recognized as a component of “Fair value losses, net” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Income Taxes

We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the difference in the bases of assets and liabilities for financial accounting and tax purposes. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates that are expected to be applicable to the taxable income or deductions in the period(s) the assets are realized or the liabilities are settled. We adjust deferred tax assets and liabilities for the effects of changes in tax laws and rates on the date of enactment. We recognize investment and other tax credits through our effective tax rate calculation assuming that we will be able to realize the full benefit of the credits. We reduce our deferred tax assets by an allowance if, based on the weight of available positive and negative evidence, it is more likely than not that we will not realize some portion, or all, of the deferred tax asset.

Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block]

We account for income tax uncertainty using a two-step approach whereby we recognize an income tax benefit if, based on the technical merits of a tax position, it is more likely than not (a probability of greater than 50%) that the tax position would be sustained upon examination by the taxing authority, which includes all related appeals and litigation. We then recognize a tax benefit equal to the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority, considering all information available at the reporting date. We recognize interest expense and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as “Other expenses” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

We provide pension and postretirement benefits and account for these benefit costs on an accrual basis. We determine pension and postretirement benefit amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements on an actuarial basis using several different assumptions. The two most significant assumptions used in the valuation are the discount rate and the long-term rate of return on assets. In determining our net periodic benefit cost, we apply a discount rate in the actuarial valuation of our pension and postretirement benefit obligations. In determining the discount rate as of each balance sheet date, we consider the current yields on high-quality, corporate fixed-income debt instruments with maturities corresponding to the expected duration of our benefit obligations. Additionally, the net periodic benefit cost recognized in our consolidated financial statements for our qualified pension plan is impacted by the long-term rate of return on plan assets. We base our assumption of the long-term rate of return on the current investment portfolio mix, actual long-term historical return information and the estimated future long-term investment returns for each class of assets. We measure plan assets and obligations as of the date of our consolidated financial statements. We recognize the over-funded or under-funded status of our benefit plans as a prepaid benefit cost (an asset) in “Other assets” or an accrued benefit cost (a liability) in “Other liabilities,” respectively, in our consolidated balance sheets. We recognize actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs and credits when incurred as adjustments to the prepaid benefit cost or accrued benefit cost with a corresponding offset in other comprehensive income (loss).

Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Earnings (Loss) per Share

Earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) is presented for both basic EPS and diluted EPS. We compute basic EPS by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. In addition to common shares outstanding, the computation of basic EPS includes instruments for which the holder has (or is deemed to have) the present rights as of the end of the reporting period to share in current period earnings (loss) with common stockholders (i.e., participating securities and common shares that are currently issuable for little or no cost to the holder). We include in the denominator of our basic EPS computation the weighted-average number of shares of common stock that would be issued upon the full exercise of the warrant issued to Treasury. Diluted EPS includes all the components of basic EPS, plus the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents such as convertible securities and stock options, but excludes those common stock equivalents from the calculation of diluted EPS when the effect of inclusion, assessed individually, would be anti-dilutive. The calculation of income available to common stockholders and earnings per share is based on the underlying premise that all income after payment of dividends on preferred shares is available to and will be distributed to the common shareholders. However, as a result of our conservatorship status and the terms of the senior preferred stock purchase agreement with Treasury, no amounts will be available to distribute as dividends to common or preferred stockholders (other than to Treasury as holder of the senior preferred stock).

Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Other comprehensive income (loss) is the change in equity, net of tax, resulting from certain transactions that we record directly to stockholders’ equity (deficit). These transactions include unrealized gains and losses on certain AFS securities and certain commitments whose underlying securities are classified as AFS. It also includes change in prior service costs and credits and actuarial gains and losses associated with pension and postretirement benefits in other comprehensive income (loss).

Compensatory Fees, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Compensatory Fees

We charge our primary servicers a compensatory fee for servicing delays within their control when they fail to comply with established loss mitigation and foreclosure timelines per our Servicing Guide, which sets forth our policies and procedures related to servicing our single-family mortgages. Compensatory fees are intended to compensate us for damages attributed to such servicing delays and to emphasize the importance of servicer performance.

We recognize a compensatory fee receivable when the amounts are chargeable per our Servicing Guide and are considered reasonably assured of collection. We subsequently establish a valuation allowance for any amounts we estimate to be uncollectible. If such fees are not reasonably assured of collection, we recognize them on a cash basis when received. The income associated with these fees is recognized as a component of “Foreclosed property (income) expense” in our consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Reclassifications

To conform to our current period presentation, we have reclassified certain amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements.

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]

New Accounting Guidance

Effective January 1, 2012, we prospectively adopted guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) related to fair value measurement. The new guidance does not expand the use of fair value; instead, it provides guidance about how fair value should be determined where it already is required or permitted under U.S. GAAP. The new fair value guidance changes certain fair value principles and clarifies the FASB’s intent on certain items, including a clarification that the principal market should be determined based on the market the entity has access to with the greatest volume and level of activity for the asset or liability. It also expands the disclosures about fair value measurements. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements; however, it required us to expand our fair value disclosures. See “Note 17, Fair Value,” for additional information regarding the impact upon adoption of this guidance.

In December 2011 and January 2013, the FASB issued guidance on additional disclosures about derivatives, repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements, and securities borrowing and lending transactions that are either offset on the balance sheet or subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement. The additional disclosures about these instruments are intended to enable investors to understand the effect or potential effect of those arrangements on the company’s financial positions. The required disclosures will enhance comparability between companies that prepare their financial statements in accordance with GAAP and those that follow international financial reporting standards. The updated guidance does not change existing offsetting eligibility criteria or the permitted balance sheet presentation for those instruments that meet the eligibility criteria. The new guidance became effective for us on January 1, 2013, and will be applied retrospectively. We do not expect that the adoption of these amendments will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.