Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The accounting and reporting policies of FirstMerit Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and to general practices within the financial services industry. The consolidated financial statements of the Corporation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for any future period. In preparing these accompanying consolidated financial statements, subsequent events were evaluated through the time the consolidated financial statements were issued. No material subsequent events have occurred requiring recognition in the consolidated financial statements or disclosure in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. The following is a description of the Corporation’s significant accounting policies. (a) Principles of Consolidation FirstMerit Corporation ("the Parent Company") is a bank holding company whose principal asset is the common stock of its wholly-owned subsidiary, FirstMerit Bank, N. A. (the “Bank”). The Parent Company’s other subsidiaries include Citizens Savings Corporation of Stark County, FirstMerit Capital Trust I, FirstMerit Community Development Corporation, FirstMerit Risk Management, Inc., and FMT, Inc. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. (b) Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements are in conformity with U.S. GAAP and prevailing practices within the financial services industry. The Corporation's management ("Management") must make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and related notes. If these estimates prove to be inaccurate, actual results could differ from those reported. (c) Business Combinations Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are accounted for at fair value on the date of acquisition. Costs related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. (d) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, deposits in other banks and checks in the process of collection. (e) Investment Securities Debt securities are classified as held-to-maturity when the Corporation has the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Held-to-maturity securities are stated at amortized cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Securities are classified as available-for-sale when the Corporation intends to hold the securities for an indefinite period of time for purposes of liquidity, interest rate risk management and long-term yield enhancement. Securities available-for-sale are stated at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders' equity. The amortization of premiums, accretion of discounts, interest and dividends are included in interest and dividends on investment securities and federal funds sold. Realized gains or losses on the sales of investment securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method. Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") on at least a quarterly basis and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, Management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) OTTI related to other factors, such as liquidity conditions in the market or changes in market interest rates, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized in earnings. Other investments include Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") and Federal Reserve Bank ("FRB") stock. As a member of the FHLB system, the Bank is required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors. The Bank is also a member of its regional FRB. Both FHLB and FRB stock are carried at cost and evaluated for impairment based on the ultimate recovery of par value. Cash and stock dividends received on the stock are reported as interest income. (f) Loans and Loan Income Loans originated for investment are stated at their principal amount outstanding adjusted for partial charge-offs, the allowance for loan losses, and net deferred loan fees and costs. Interest income on loans is accrued over the term of the loans primarily using the “simple-interest” method based on the principal balance outstanding. Interest is not accrued on loans where collectability is uncertain. Accrued interest is presented separately in the balance sheet, except for accrued interest on credit card loans, which is included in the outstanding loan balance. Loan origination fees and certain direct costs incurred to extend credit are deferred and amortized over the term of the loan or loan commitment period as an adjustment to the related loan yield. (g) Loans Held for Sale Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at fair value. The election of the fair value option aligns the accounting for these loans with the related economic hedges. It also eliminates the requirements of hedge accounting under U.S. GAAP. Loan origination fees are recorded when earned and related direct loan origination costs are recognized when incurred. Upon their sale, differences between carrying value and sales proceeds realized are recorded to loan sales and servicing income. A discussion of the valuation methodology applied to the Corporation’s loans held for sale are described in Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement). (h) Nonperforming Loans With the exception of certain commercial, credit card and mortgage loans, loans and leases on which payments are past due for 90 days are placed on nonaccrual status, unless those loans are fully secured and in process of collection. Credit card loans on which payments are past due for 120 days are placed on nonaccrual status. Interest on mortgage loans is accrued until Management deems it uncollectible based upon the specific identification method. Acquired impaired loans are not classified as nonperforming assets as the loans are considered to be performing under the provisions of ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ("ASC 310-30"). Loans are generally written off when deemed uncollectible or when they reach a predetermined number of days past due depending upon loan product, terms, and other factors. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest deemed uncollectible which had been accrued in prior years is charged against the allowance for loan losses and interest deemed uncollectible accrued in the current year is reversed against interest income. Payments subsequently received on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal. A loan is returned to accrual status when principal and interest are no longer past due and collectability is probable. This generally requires a sustained period of timely principal and interest payments. Under the Corporation’s credit policies and practices, individually impaired loans include all nonaccrual and restructured commercial, agricultural, construction, and commercial real estate loans, but exclude certain aggregated consumer loans, mortgage loans, and leases classified as nonaccrual. Loan impairment for all loans is measured based on either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate at inception, at the observable market price of the loan, or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans. Restructured loans are those on which concessions in terms have been made as a result of deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition. In general, the modification or restructuring of a debt constitutes a troubled debt restructuring if the Corporation for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties grants a concession to the borrower that the Corporation would not otherwise consider under current market conditions. Debt restructurings or loan modifications for a borrower do not necessarily constitute troubled debt restructurings. Troubled debt restructurings do not necessarily result in nonaccrual loans. Specific allowances for loan losses are established for certain consumer, commercial and commercial real estate loans whose terms have been modified in a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR"). Acquired loans restructured after acquisition are not considered TDRs for purposes of the Corporation’s accounting and disclosure if the loans evidenced credit deterioration as of the acquisition date and are accounted for in pools. (i) Allowance for Loan Losses The allowance for loan losses is Management’s estimate of the amount of probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. Management estimates credit losses based on individual loans determined to be impaired and on all other loans grouped based on similar risk characteristics. Management also considers internal and external factors such as economic conditions, loan management practices, portfolio monitoring, and other risks, collectively known as qualitative factors or Q-factors, to estimate credit losses in the loan portfolio. Q-factors are used to reflect changes in the portfolio’s collectability characteristics not captured by historical loss data. The Corporation’s historical loss component is the most significant of the allowance for loan losses components and is based on historical loss experience by credit-risk grade (for commercial loan pools) and payment status (for mortgage and consumer loan pools). Loans are pooled based on similar risk characteristics supported by observable data. The historical loss experience component of the allowance for loan losses represents the results of migration analysis of historical net charge-offs for portfolios of loans (including groups of commercial loans within each credit-risk grade and groups of consumer loans by payment status). For measuring loss exposure in a pool of loans, the historical net charge-off or migration experience is utilized to estimate expected losses to be realized from the pool of loans. Individual commercial loans are assigned credit-risk grades based on an internal assessment of conditions that affect a borrower’s ability to meet its contractual obligation under the loan agreement. The assessment process includes reviewing a borrower’s current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and other information specific to each individual borrower. Certain commercial loans are reviewed on an annual, quarterly or rotational basis or as Management becomes aware of information affecting a borrower’s ability to fulfill its obligation. The credit-risk grading process for commercial loans is summarized as follows: “Pass” Loans (Grades 1, 2, 3, 4) are not considered a greater than normal credit risk. Generally, the borrowers have the apparent ability to satisfy obligations to the bank, and the Corporation anticipates insignificant uncollectible amounts based on its individual loan review. “Special-Mention” Loans (Grade 5) are commercial loans that have identified potential weaknesses that deserve Management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in noticeable deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the institution’s credit position. “Substandard” Loans (Grade 6) are inadequately protected by the current financial condition and paying capacity of the obligor or by any collateral pledged. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that may jeopardize the liquidation of the debt pursuant to the contractual principal and interest terms. Such loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Corporation may sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. “Doubtful” Loans (Grade 7) have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that existing facts, conditions, and values make collection or liquidation in full highly improbable. Such loans are currently managed separately to determine the highest recovery alternatives. If a nonperforming, substandard loan has an outstanding balance of $0.3 million or greater or if a doubtful loan has an outstanding balance of $0.1 million or greater, as determined by the Corporation’s credit-risk grading process, further analysis is performed to determine the probable loss, if any, and assign a specific allowance to the loan if needed. The allowance for loan losses relating to originated loans that have become impaired is based on either expected cash flows discounted at the loan's original effective interest rate, the observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans. To the extent credit deterioration occurs on purchased loans after the date of acquisition, the Corporation records an allowance for loan losses, net of any expected reimbursement under any loss sharing agreements with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC"). Increases to the allowance for loan losses are made by charges to the provision for loan losses. Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against the allowance for loan losses. Recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are credited to the allowance for loan losses. The provision for loan losses charged to operating expense is based on Management’s evaluation of the loan portfolio and the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses under current economic conditions and such other factors, which, in Management’s judgment, require current recognition. The Corporation also assesses the credit risk associated with off-balance sheet loan commitments and letters of credit. The liability for off-balance sheet credit exposure related to loan commitments and other credit guarantees is included in other liabilities. (j) Acquired Loans, Covered Loans and Related Loss Share Receivable Acquired loans (nonimpaired and impaired) are initially measured at fair value as of the acquisition date. The Corporation evaluates acquired loans for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC 310-30. Acquired loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable all contractually required payments will not be collected. Fair value measurements include estimates related to expected prepayments and the amount and timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows. Credit discounts representing the principal losses expected over the life of the loan are also a component of the initial fair value, therefore, an allowance for loan losses is not recorded at the acquisition date. In determining the acquisition date fair value of acquired impaired loans, and in subsequent accounting, the Corporation generally aggregates purchased consumer loans and certain smaller balance commercial loans into pools of loans with common risk characteristics, while accounting for larger balance commercial loans individually. Expected cash flows at the purchase date in excess of the fair value of loans are recorded as interest income over the life of the loans if the timing and amount of the future cash flows is reasonably estimable. Subsequent to the purchase date, increases in cash flows over those expected at the purchase date are recognized as interest income prospectively. The present value of any decreases in expected cash flows after the purchase date is recognized as a provision for loans losses net of any expected reimbursement under any loss sharing agreements with the FDIC (“Loss Share Agreements”). Revolving loans, including lines of credit and credit cards loans, and leases are excluded from acquired impaired loan accounting. For acquired loans that are not deemed impaired at acquisition, credit discounts representing the principal losses expected over the life of the loan are a component of the initial fair value. Subsequent to the purchase date, the methods utilized to estimate the required allowance for loan losses for these loans is similar to originated loans, however, the Corporation records a provision for loan losses only when the required allowance, net of any expected reimbursement under any Loss Share Agreements exceeds any remaining credit discounts. The remaining differences between the purchase price and the unpaid principal balance at the date of acquisition are recorded in interest income over the life of the loans. Loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions and covered under Loss Share Agreements are referred to as covered loans. Covered loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition exclusive of the Loss Share Agreements. No allowance for loan losses related to covered loans is recorded on the acquisition date as the fair value of the loans acquired incorporates assumptions regarding credit risk. A loss share receivable is recorded at the acquisition date which represents the estimated fair value of reimbursement the Corporation expects to receive from the FDIC for incurred losses on certain covered loans. The fair value measurement reflects counterparty credit risk and other uncertainties. The loss share receivable continues to be measured on the same basis as the related indemnified loans. Deterioration in the credit quality of the loans (recorded as an adjustment to the allowance for covered loan losses) would immediately increase the basis of the loss sharer receivable, with the offset recorded through the consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income. Increases in the credit quality or cash flows of loans (reflected as an adjustment to yield and accreted into income over the remaining life of the loans) decrease the basis of the loss share receivable, with such decrease being accreted into income over 1) the same period or 2) the life of the loss share agreements, whichever is shorter. Loss assumptions used in the basis of the loss share receivable are consistent with the loss assumptions used to measure the related covered loans. Upon the determination of an incurred loss the loss share receivable will be reduced by the amount owed by the FDIC. A corresponding, claim receivable is recorded in accrued interest receivable and other assets on the consolidated balance sheet until cash is received from the FDIC. For further discussion of the Corporation’s acquisitions and loan accounting, see Note 2 (Business Combinations) and Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses). (k) Equipment Lease Financing The Corporation leases equipment to customers on both a direct and leveraged lease basis. The net investment in financing leases includes the aggregate amount of lease payments to be received and the estimated residual values of the equipment, less unearned income and non-recourse debt pertaining to leveraged leases. Income from lease financing is recognized over the lives of the leases on an approximate level rate of return on the unrecovered investment. The residual value represents the estimated fair value of the leased asset at the end of the lease term. Unguaranteed residual values of leased assets are reviewed at least annually for impairment. Declines in residual values judged to be other-than-temporary are recognized in earnings in the period such determinations are made. (l) Mortgage Servicing Rights The Corporation periodically sells residential real estate loans while retaining the rights and obligations to perform the servicing of such loans. Whenever the Corporation undertakes an obligation to service such loans, Management assesses whether a servicing asset or liability should be recognized. A servicing asset is recognized whenever the compensation for servicing is expected to exceed servicing costs. Likewise, a servicing liability would be recognized in the event that servicing fees to be received are not expected to adequately compensate the Corporation for its expected cost. Servicing assets associated with retained mortgage servicing rights are presented within other assets on the balance sheet. The Corporation does not presently have any servicing liabilities. Mortgage servicing rights ("MSRs") are initially valued at fair value. Servicing assets and liabilities are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans. Amortization is recorded in loan sales and servicing income. At each reporting period, mortgage servicing rights are assessed for impairment based on fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis. The Corporation stratifies its servicing rights portfolio into tranches based on loan type and interest rate, the predominant risk characteristics of the underlying loans. Any impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum through a charge to income. If the Corporation later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded an an increase to income. The Corporation also reviews mortgage servicing rights for other-than-temporary impairment each quarter and recognizes a direct write-down when the recoverability of a recorded allowance for impairment is determined to be remote. Unlike an allowance for impairment, a direct write-down permanently reduces the unamortized cost of the mortgage servicing right and the allowance for impairment. Mortgage servicing rights do not trade in an active open market with readily observable market prices. Although sales of mortgage servicing rights do occur, the exact terms and conditions may not be available. As a result, the fair value of mortgage servicing rights is estimated using discounted cash flow modeling techniques which require management to make assumptions regarding future net servicing income, adjusted for such factors as net servicing income, discount rate and prepayments. The primary assumptions used in determining the current fair value of the Corporation’s mortgage servicing rights as well as a sensitivity analysis are presented in Note 6 (Mortgage Servicing Rights). The Corporation generally records loan administration fees for servicing loans for investors on the accrual basis of accounting. Servicing fees and late fees related to delinquent loan payments are also recorded on the accrual basis of accounting. (m) Premises and Equipment Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line and declining-balance methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed on the straight-line method based on related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the assets, whichever is shorter. (n) Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the amount by which the cost of net assets acquired in a business combination exceeds their fair value. Other intangible assets represent the present value of the future stream of income to be derived from the purchase of core deposits. Other intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill and other intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis at November 30th of each year or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Corporation's reporting units for purposes of this testing are its major lines of business: Commercial, Retail, and Wealth. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step process that requires management to make judgments in determining what assumptions to use in the calculation. The first step in impairment testing is to estimate the fair value of each reporting unit based on valuation techniques including a discounted cash flow model with revenue and profit forecasts and comparing those estimated fair values with the carrying values, which includes the allocated goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill impairment may be indicated and a second step is performed to compute the amount of the impairment by determining an “implied fair value” of goodwill. The determination of a reporting unit’s “implied fair value” of goodwill requires the Corporation to allocate fair value of the reporting unit to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. Any unallocated fair value represents the “implied fair value” of goodwill, which is compared to its corresponding carrying value. An impairment loss would be recognized as a charge to earnings to the extent the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill. (o) Other Real Estate Owned Other real estate owned is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and is primarily comprised of property acquired through loan foreclosure proceedings or acceptance of a deed-in-lieu of foreclosures, and loans classified as in-substance foreclosure. Other real estate owned is recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan at the time of transfer or the fair value of the underlying property collateral, less estimated selling costs. Any write-down in the carrying value of a property at the time of acquisition is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Any subsequent write-downs to reflect current fair market value, as well as gains and losses on disposition and revenues and expenses incurred in maintaining such properties, are treated as period costs. Other real estate owned also includes bank premises formerly but no longer used for banking. Banking premises are transferred at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less estimated selling costs. (p) Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities The Corporation uses interest rate swaps, interest rate lock commitments and forward contracts sold to hedge interest rate risk for asset and liability management purposes. All derivatives are recorded as either other assets or other liabilities at fair value. Credit risk associated with derivatives is reflected in the fair values recorded for those positions. Accounting for changes in fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of derivatives differs depending on whether the derivative has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, and further, on the type of hedging relationship. For derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments, the gain or loss is recognized immediately in other operating income. A derivative that is designated and qualifies as a hedging instrument must be designated a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. The Corporation does not have any derivatives that hedge net investments in foreign operations. Effectiveness measures the extent to which changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument offset changes in the fair value of the hedged item. If the relationship between the change in the fair value of the derivative instrument and the fair value of the hedged item falls within a range considered to be the industry norm, the hedge is considered “highly effective” and qualifies for hedge accounting. A hedge is “ineffective” if the offsetting difference between the fair values falls outside the acceptable range. A fair value hedge is used to limit exposure to changes in the fair value of existing assets, liabilities and firm commitments caused by changes in interest rates or other economic factors. The Corporation recognizes the gain or loss on these derivatives, as well as the related gain or loss on the underlying hedged item, in earnings during the period in which the fair value changes. If a hedge is perfectly effective, the change in the fair value of the hedged item will be offset, resulting in no net effect on earnings. A cash flow hedge is used to minimize the variability of future cash flows that is caused by changes in interest rates or other economic factors. The effective portion of a gain or loss on any cash flow hedge is reported as a component of “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” and reclassified into other operating income in the same period or periods that the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of the derivative gain or loss is recognized in other operating income during the current period. In December 2009, the Corporation corrected an error in hedge accounting for a portfolio of interest rate swaps associated with fixed-rate commercial loans recorded in prior periods. The Corporation assessed the materiality of the error in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 and concluded the error was not material, either individually or in the aggregate, to the results of operations of any prior period or for the year ending December 31, 2009, to trends for those periods affected, or to a fair presentation of the Corporation’s financial statements for those periods. Accordingly, results for prior periods have not been restated. Instead, the Corporation increased other expenses and reduced the commercial loans balance by $3.9 million to correct this error in the fourth quarter of 2009. In addition, this portfolio of interest rate swaps was terminated in January 2010. The Corporation enters into commitments to originate mortgage loans whereby the interest rate on the prospective loan is determined prior to funding (“rate lock commitments”). Rate lock commitments on mortgage loans that are intended to be sold are considered to be derivatives. Accordingly, such commitments, along with any related fees received from potential borrowers, are recorded at fair value as derivative assets or liabilities, with changes in fair value recorded in net gain or loss on sale of mortgage loans. (q) Income Taxes Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it "more likely than not" that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded. Additional information regarding income taxes is included in Note 11 (Income Taxes). (r) Treasury Stock Treasury stock is accounted for using the cost method in which reacquired shares reduce outstanding common stock and capital surplus. (s) Per Share Data Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income less preferred stock dividends by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares plus common stock equivalents computed using the Treasury Share method. All earnings per share disclosures appearing in these financial statements, related notes and management’s discussion and analysis, are computed assuming dilution unless otherwise indicated. The Corporation’s earnings per share calculations are illustrated in Note 19 (Earnings per Share). (t) Trust Department Assets and Income Property held by the Corporation in a fiduciary or other capacity for trust customers is not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, since such items are not assets of the Corporation. Trust department income is reported on the accrual basis of accounting. (u) Share-Based Compensation The Corporation’s stock based compensation plans are described in detail in Note 13 (Share-Based Compensation). Compensation expense is recognized for stock options and unvested (restricted) stock awards issued to employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Corporation’s common shares at the date of grant is used to estimate the fair value of unvested (restricted) stock awards. Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period for stock option awards and as the unvested period for nonvested (restricted) stock awards. Certain of the Corporation’s share-based awards contain terms that provide for a graded vesting schedule whereby portions of the award vest in increments over the requisite service period. The Corporation recognizes compensation expense for awards with graded vesting schedule on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award. (v) Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Pension expense is the net of service and interest cost, return on plan assets and amortization of gains and losses not immediately recognized. The overfunded or underfunded status of defined benefit plans is recognized as an asset or liability, respectively, in the balance sheets. Additional information about pension and other postretirement plans is included in Note 12 (Benefit Plans). (w) Fair Value Measurement Fair value is defined as the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. It represents an exit price at the measurement date. Market participants are buyers and sellers, who are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact in the principal (or most advantageous) market for the asset or liability being measured. Current market conditions, including imbalances between supply and demand, are considered in determining fair value. The Corporation values its assets and liabilities in the principal market where it sells the particular asset or transfers the liability with the greatest volume and level of activity. In the absence of a principal market, the valuation is based on the most advantageous market for the asset or liability (i.e., the market where the asset could be sold or the liability transferred at a price that maximizes the amount to be received for the asset or minimizes the amount to be paid to transfer the liability). In measuring the fair value of an asset, the Corporation assumes the highest and best use of the asset by a market participant to maximize the value of the asset, and does not consider the intended use of the asset. When measuring the fair value of a liability, the Corporation assumes that the nonperformance risk associated with the liability is the same before and after the transfer. Nonperformance risk is the risk that an obligation will not be satisfied and encompasses not only the Corporation’s own credit risk (i.e., the risk that the Corporation will fail to meet its obligation), but also other risks such as settlement risk. The Corporation considers the effect of its own credit risk on the fair value for any period in which fair value is measured. There are three acceptable valuation techniques that can be used to measure fair value: the market approach, the income approach and the cost approach. Selection of the appropriate technique for valuing a particular asset or liability takes into consideration the exit market, the nature of the asset or liability being valued, and how a market participant would value the same asset or liability. Ultimately, determination of the appropriate valuation method requires significant judgment, and sufficient knowledge and expertise are required to apply the valuation techniques. Valuation inputs refer to the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a given asset or liability using one of the three valuation techniques. Inputs can be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are those assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the particular asset or liability. These inputs are based on market data and are obtained from a source independent of the Corporation. Unobservable inputs are assumptions based on the Corporation’s own information or estimate of assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best and most current information available on the measurement date. All inputs, whether observable or unobservable, are ranked in accordance with a prescribed fair value hierarchy which gives the highest ranking to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest ranking to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Fair values for assets or liabilities classified as Level 2 are based on one or a combination of the following factors: (i) quoted prices for similar assets; (ii) observable inputs for the asset or liability, such as interest rates or yield curves; or (iii) inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Corporation considers an input to be significant if it drives 10% or more of the total fair value of a particular asset or liability. Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a recurring basis if fair value is measured regularly (i.e., daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly). Recurring valuation occurs at a minimum on the measurement date. Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a nonrecurring basis if the fair value measurement of the instrument does not necessarily result in a change in the amount recorded on the balance sheet. Generally, nonrecurring valuation is the result of the application of other accounting pronouncements which require assets or liabilities to be assessed for impairment or recorded at the lower of cost or fair value. The fair value of assets or liabilities transferred in or out of Level 3 is measured on the transfer date, with any additional changes in fair value subsequent to the transfer considered to be realized or unrealized gains or losses. Additional information regarding fair value measurements is provided in Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement). (x) Reclassifications Certain reclassifications of prior years' amounts have been made to conform to current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on prior year net income or shareholders' equity. (y) Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards The following section discusses new accounting policies that were adopted by the Corporation during 2011 and the expected impact of accounting standards recently issued but not yet required to be adopted. To the extent the adoption of new accounting standards materially affects financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity, the impacts are discussed in the applicable notes to the consolidated financial statements as referenced below. FASB ASU 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements. ASU 2010-06 amends ASC 820 to require additional disclosures regarding fair value measurements. Specifically, the ASU requires disclosure of the amounts of significant transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and the reasons for these transfers; the reasons for any transfers in or out of Level 3; and information in the reconciliation of recurring Level 3 measurements about gross purchases, sales, issuances and settlements. Except for the requirement to disclose purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the reconciliation of recurring Level 3 measurements on a gross basis, all the amendments to ASC 820 by ASU 2010-06 were effective for the Corporation on January 1, 2010. The requirement to separately disclose purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of recurring Level 3 measurements was effective for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011. All required disclosures are incorporated into Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement). FASB ASU 2010-20, Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses. ASU 2010-20 requires new qualitative and quantitative disclosures on the allowance for credit losses, credit quality, impaired loans, modifications and nonaccrual and past due financing receivables. The guidance requires that an entity provide disclosures facilitating financial statement users’ evaluation of the nature of credit risk inherent in the entity’s portfolio of financing receivables (i.e., loans), how the risk is analyzed and assessed in arriving at the allowance for credit losses, and the changes and reasons for those changes in the allowance for credit losses. These required disclosures are to be presented on a disaggregated basis at the portfolio segment and the class of financing receivable level. The majority of the additional disclosures (relating to period end balances) were effective for the Corporation as of December 31, 2010. Specific items regarding activity that occurred before the issuance of this accounting guidance, such as the allowance rollforward and modification disclosures were required for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011 and are incorporated into Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses). FASB ASU 2010-28, When to Perform Step 2 of the Goodwill Impairment Test for Reporting Units with Zero or Negative Carrying Amounts. In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-28, which modifies Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test under ASC 350, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (“ASC 350”), for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts. For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test if it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. In determining whether it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors (as defined in ASC 350) indicating that an impairment may exist. This guidance was effective for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2010-28 did not have an impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements. FASB ASU 2010-29, Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations. In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-29, which clarifies that if a public entity presents comparative financial statements, the entity should disclose revenue and earnings of the combined entity as though the business combination(s) that occurred during the current year had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period only. ASU 2010-29 is effective for the Corporation prospectively for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the January 1, 2011. The Corporation has had no acquisitions subsequent to January 1, 2011. FASB ASU 2011-02, A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring Is a Troubled Debt Restructuring. In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-02, which provides additional guidance to help creditors in determining whether a creditor has granted a concession and whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties for purposes of determining whether a restructuring constitutes a troubled debt restructuring. The amendments in this update were effective for the Corporation beginning in the quarter ended September 30, 2011 and were to be applied retrospectively to January 1, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2011-02 did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements. In addition, the modification disclosures described in ASU 2010-20, which were subsequently deferred by ASU 2011-01, Deferral of the Effective Date of Disclosures about Troubled Debt Restructurings, were effective on a prospective basis beginning in the quarter ended September 30, 2011. All required disclosures are incorporated into Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses). FASB ASU 2011-03, Reconsideration of Effective Control for Repurchase Agreements. In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-03, which removes from the assessment of effective control (1) the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets on substantially the agreed terms, even in the event of default by the transferee, and (2) the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion. ASU 2011-03 is effective prospectively for all transactions or modifications of existing transactions that occur on or after January 1, 2012. The Corporation has not completed evaluating the impact of ASU 2011-03 on its consolidated financial statements. FASB ASU 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. The amendments in this update result in common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”). Consequently, the amendments change the wording used to describe many of the requirements in U.S. GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. For many of the requirements, the FASB does not intend for the amendments in this update to result in a change in the application of the requirements in ASC 820. Some of the amendments clarify the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. Other amendments change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. ASU 2011-04 is effective for the Corporation on a prospective basis beginning in the quarter ended March 31, 2012. The Corporation has not completed evaluating the impact of ASU 2011-04 on its consolidated financial statements. FASB ASU 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income. In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, which provides entities with the option to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In both choices, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income, along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income. Regardless of whether an entity chooses to present comprehensive income in a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive statements, the entity is required 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(s) where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented. This update is effective on a retrospective basis beginning in the quarter ended March 31, 2012. As the Corporation currently reports comprehensive income in a single continuous statement with all of the components required by ASU 2011-05, the adoption of this guidance will not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The accounting and reporting policies of FirstMerit Corporation and its subsidiaries (the “Corporation”) conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) and to general practices within the financial services industry.

The consolidated financial statements of the Corporation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for any future period.

In preparing these accompanying consolidated financial statements, subsequent events were evaluated through the time the consolidated financial statements were issued. No material subsequent events have occurred requiring recognition in the consolidated financial statements or disclosure in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

The following is a description of the Corporation’s significant accounting policies.

(a) Principles of Consolidation

FirstMerit Corporation ("the Parent Company") is a bank holding company whose principal asset is the common stock of its wholly-owned subsidiary, FirstMerit Bank, N. A. (the “Bank”). The Parent Company’s other subsidiaries include Citizens Savings Corporation of Stark County, FirstMerit Capital Trust I, FirstMerit Community Development Corporation, FirstMerit Risk Management, Inc., and FMT, Inc. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

(b) Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements are in conformity with U.S. GAAP and prevailing practices within the financial services industry. The Corporation's management ("Management") must make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and related notes. If these estimates prove to be inaccurate, actual results could differ from those reported.

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination are accounted for at fair value on the date of acquisition. Costs related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred.

(d) Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, deposits in other banks and checks in the process of collection.

(e) Investment Securities

Debt securities are classified as held-to-maturity when the Corporation has the positive intent and ability to hold the securities to maturity. Held-to-maturity securities are stated at amortized cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Securities are classified as available-for-sale when the Corporation intends to hold the securities for an indefinite period of time for purposes of liquidity, interest rate risk management and long-term yield enhancement. Securities available-for-sale are stated at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders' equity.

The amortization of premiums, accretion of discounts, interest and dividends are included in interest and dividends on investment securities and federal funds sold. Realized gains or losses on the sales of investment securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") on at least a quarterly basis and more frequently when economic or market conditions warrant such an evaluation. For securities in an unrealized loss position, Management considers the extent and duration of the unrealized loss, and the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer. Management also assesses whether it intends to sell, or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell, a security in an unrealized loss position before recovery of its amortized cost. If either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met, the entire difference between amortized cost and fair value is recognized as impairment through earnings. For debt securities that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, the amount of impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) OTTI related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) OTTI related to other factors, such as liquidity conditions in the market or changes in market interest rates, which is recognized in other comprehensive income. The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis. For equity securities, the entire amount of impairment is recognized in earnings.

Other investments include Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") and Federal Reserve Bank ("FRB") stock. As a member of the FHLB system, the Bank is required to own a certain amount of stock based on the level of borrowings and other factors. The Bank is also a member of its regional FRB. Both FHLB and FRB stock are carried at cost and evaluated for impairment based on the ultimate recovery of par value. Cash and stock dividends received on the stock are reported as interest income.

(f) Loans and Loan Income

Loans originated for investment are stated at their principal amount outstanding adjusted for partial charge-offs, the allowance for loan losses, and net deferred loan fees and costs. Interest income on loans is accrued over the term of the loans primarily using the “simple-interest” method based on the principal balance outstanding. Interest is not accrued on loans where collectability is uncertain. Accrued interest is presented separately in the balance sheet, except for accrued interest on credit card loans, which is included in the outstanding loan balance. Loan origination fees and certain direct costs incurred to extend credit are deferred and amortized over the term of the loan or loan commitment period as an adjustment to the related loan yield.

(g) Loans Held for Sale

Mortgage loans originated and intended for sale in the secondary market are carried at fair value. The election of the fair value option aligns the accounting for these loans with the related economic hedges. It also eliminates the requirements of hedge accounting under U.S. GAAP. Loan origination fees are recorded when earned and related direct loan origination costs are recognized when incurred. Upon their sale, differences between carrying value and sales proceeds realized are recorded to loan sales and servicing income.

A discussion of the valuation methodology applied to the Corporation’s loans held for sale are described in Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement).

(h) Nonperforming Loans

With the exception of certain commercial, credit card and mortgage loans, loans and leases on which payments are past due for 90 days are placed on nonaccrual status, unless those loans are fully secured and in process of collection. Credit card loans on which payments are past due for 120 days are placed on nonaccrual status. Interest on mortgage loans is accrued until Management deems it uncollectible based upon the specific identification method. Acquired impaired loans are not classified as nonperforming assets as the loans are considered to be performing under the provisions of ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ("ASC 310-30").

Loans are generally written off when deemed uncollectible or when they reach a predetermined number of days past due depending upon loan product, terms, and other factors. When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, interest deemed uncollectible which had been accrued in prior years is charged against the allowance for loan losses and interest deemed uncollectible accrued in the current year is reversed against interest income. Payments subsequently received on nonaccrual loans are generally applied to principal. A loan is returned to accrual status when principal and interest are no longer past due and collectability is probable. This generally requires a sustained period of timely principal and interest payments.

Under the Corporation’s credit policies and practices, individually impaired loans include all nonaccrual and restructured commercial, agricultural, construction, and commercial real estate loans, but exclude certain aggregated consumer loans, mortgage loans, and leases classified as nonaccrual. Loan impairment for all loans is measured based on either the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate at inception, at the observable market price of the loan, or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans.

Restructured loans are those on which concessions in terms have been made as a result of deterioration in a borrower’s financial condition. In general, the modification or restructuring of a debt constitutes a troubled debt restructuring if the Corporation for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties grants a concession to the borrower that the Corporation would not otherwise consider under current market conditions. Debt restructurings or loan modifications for a borrower do not necessarily constitute troubled debt restructurings. Troubled debt restructurings do not necessarily result in nonaccrual loans. Specific allowances for loan losses are established for certain consumer, commercial and commercial real estate loans whose terms have been modified in a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR").

Acquired loans restructured after acquisition are not considered TDRs for purposes of the Corporation’s accounting and disclosure if the loans evidenced credit deterioration as of the acquisition date and are accounted for in pools.

(i) Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses is Management’s estimate of the amount of probable credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. Management estimates credit losses based on individual loans determined to be impaired and on all other loans grouped based on similar risk characteristics. Management also considers internal and external factors such as economic conditions, loan management practices, portfolio monitoring, and other risks, collectively known as qualitative factors or Q-factors, to estimate credit losses in the loan portfolio. Q-factors are used to reflect changes in the portfolio’s collectability characteristics not captured by historical loss data.

The Corporation’s historical loss component is the most significant of the allowance for loan losses components and is based on historical loss experience by credit-risk grade (for commercial loan pools) and payment status (for mortgage and consumer loan pools). Loans are pooled based on similar risk characteristics supported by observable data. The historical loss experience component of the allowance for loan losses represents the results of migration analysis of historical net charge-offs for portfolios of loans (including groups of commercial loans within each credit-risk grade and groups of consumer loans by payment status). For measuring loss exposure in a pool of loans, the historical net charge-off or migration experience is utilized to estimate expected losses to be realized from the pool of loans.

Individual commercial loans are assigned credit-risk grades based on an internal assessment of conditions that affect a borrower’s ability to meet its contractual obligation under the loan agreement. The assessment process includes reviewing a borrower’s current financial information, historical payment experience, credit documentation, public information, and other information specific to each individual borrower. Certain commercial loans are reviewed on an annual, quarterly or rotational basis or as Management becomes aware of information affecting a borrower’s ability to fulfill its obligation.

The credit-risk grading process for commercial loans is summarized as follows:

“Pass” Loans (Grades 1, 2, 3, 4) are not considered a greater than normal credit risk. Generally, the borrowers have the apparent ability to satisfy obligations to the bank, and the Corporation anticipates insignificant uncollectible amounts based on its individual loan review.

“Special-Mention” Loans (Grade 5) are commercial loans that have identified potential weaknesses that deserve Management’s close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in noticeable deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or in the institution’s credit position.

“Substandard” Loans (Grade 6) are inadequately protected by the current financial condition and paying capacity of the obligor or by any collateral pledged. Loans so classified have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that may jeopardize the liquidation of the debt pursuant to the contractual principal and interest terms. Such loans are characterized by the distinct possibility that the Corporation may sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

“Doubtful” Loans (Grade 7) have all the weaknesses inherent in those classified as substandard, with the added characteristic that existing facts, conditions, and values make collection or liquidation in full highly improbable. Such loans are currently managed separately to determine the highest recovery alternatives.

If a nonperforming, substandard loan has an outstanding balance of $0.3 million or greater or if a doubtful loan has an outstanding balance of $0.1 million or greater, as determined by the Corporation’s credit-risk grading process, further analysis is performed to determine the probable loss, if any, and assign a specific allowance to the loan if needed. The allowance for loan losses relating to originated loans that have become impaired is based on either expected cash flows discounted at the loan's original effective interest rate, the observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans. To the extent credit deterioration occurs on purchased loans after the date of acquisition, the Corporation records an allowance for loan losses, net of any expected reimbursement under any loss sharing agreements with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the "FDIC").

Increases to the allowance for loan losses are made by charges to the provision for loan losses. Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against the allowance for loan losses. Recoveries of previously charged-off amounts are credited to the allowance for loan losses.

The provision for loan losses charged to operating expense is based on Management’s evaluation of the loan portfolio and the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses under current economic conditions and such other factors, which, in Management’s judgment, require current recognition.

The Corporation also assesses the credit risk associated with off-balance sheet loan commitments and letters of credit. The liability for off-balance sheet credit exposure related to loan commitments and other credit guarantees is included in other liabilities.

(j) Acquired Loans, Covered Loans and Related Loss Share Receivable

Acquired loans (nonimpaired and impaired) are initially measured at fair value as of the acquisition date. The Corporation evaluates acquired loans for impairment in accordance with the provisions of ASC 310-30. Acquired loans are considered impaired if there is evidence of credit deterioration since origination and if it is probable all contractually required payments will not be collected. Fair value measurements include estimates related to expected prepayments and the amount and timing of undiscounted expected principal, interest and other cash flows. Credit discounts representing the principal losses expected over the life of the loan are also a component of the initial fair value, therefore, an allowance for loan losses is not recorded at the acquisition date.

In determining the acquisition date fair value of acquired impaired loans, and in subsequent accounting, the Corporation generally aggregates purchased consumer loans and certain smaller balance commercial loans into pools of loans with common risk characteristics, while accounting for larger balance commercial loans individually. Expected cash flows at the purchase date in excess of the fair value of loans are recorded as interest income over the life of the loans if the timing and amount of the future cash flows is reasonably estimable. Subsequent to the purchase date, increases in cash flows over those expected at the purchase date are recognized as interest income prospectively. The present value of any decreases in expected cash flows after the purchase date is recognized as a provision for loans losses net of any expected reimbursement under any loss sharing agreements with the FDIC (“Loss Share Agreements”). Revolving loans, including lines of credit and credit cards loans, and leases are excluded from acquired impaired loan accounting.

For acquired loans that are not deemed impaired at acquisition, credit discounts representing the principal losses expected over the life of the loan are a component of the initial fair value. Subsequent to the purchase date, the methods utilized to estimate the required allowance for loan losses for these loans is similar to originated loans, however, the Corporation records a provision for loan losses only when the required allowance, net of any expected reimbursement under any Loss Share Agreements exceeds any remaining credit discounts. The remaining differences between the purchase price and the unpaid principal balance at the date of acquisition are recorded in interest income over the life of the loans.

Loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions and covered under Loss Share Agreements are referred to as covered loans. Covered loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition exclusive of the Loss Share Agreements. No allowance for loan losses related to covered loans is recorded on the acquisition date as the fair value of the loans acquired incorporates assumptions regarding credit risk.

A loss share receivable is recorded at the acquisition date which represents the estimated fair value of reimbursement the Corporation expects to receive from the FDIC for incurred losses on certain covered loans. The fair value measurement reflects counterparty credit risk and other uncertainties. The loss share receivable continues to be measured on the same basis as the related indemnified loans. Deterioration in the credit quality of the loans (recorded as an adjustment to the allowance for covered loan losses) would immediately increase the basis of the loss sharer receivable, with the offset recorded through the consolidated statement of income and comprehensive income. Increases in the credit quality or cash flows of loans (reflected as an adjustment to yield and accreted into income over the remaining life of the loans) decrease the basis of the loss share receivable, with such decrease being accreted into income over 1) the same period or 2) the life of the loss share agreements, whichever is shorter. Loss assumptions used in the basis of the loss share receivable are consistent with the loss assumptions used to measure the related covered loans.

Upon the determination of an incurred loss the loss share receivable will be reduced by the amount owed by the FDIC. A corresponding, claim receivable is recorded in accrued interest receivable and other assets on the consolidated balance sheet until cash is received from the FDIC. For further discussion of the Corporation’s acquisitions and loan accounting, see Note 2 (Business Combinations) and Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses).

(k) Equipment Lease Financing

The Corporation leases equipment to customers on both a direct and leveraged lease basis. The net investment in financing leases includes the aggregate amount of lease payments to be received and the estimated residual values of the equipment, less unearned income and non-recourse debt pertaining to leveraged leases. Income from lease financing is recognized over the lives of the leases on an approximate level rate of return on the unrecovered investment. The residual value represents the estimated fair value of the leased asset at the end of the lease term. Unguaranteed residual values of leased assets are reviewed at least annually for impairment. Declines in residual values judged to be other-than-temporary are recognized in earnings in the period such determinations are made.

(l) Mortgage Servicing Rights

The Corporation periodically sells residential real estate loans while retaining the rights and obligations to perform the servicing of such loans. Whenever the Corporation undertakes an obligation to service such loans, Management assesses whether a servicing asset or liability should be recognized. A servicing asset is recognized whenever the compensation for servicing is expected to exceed servicing costs. Likewise, a servicing liability would be recognized in the event that servicing fees to be received are not expected to adequately compensate the Corporation for its expected cost. Servicing assets associated with retained mortgage servicing rights are presented within other assets on the balance sheet. The Corporation does not presently have any servicing liabilities.

Mortgage servicing rights ("MSRs") are initially valued at fair value. Servicing assets and liabilities are subsequently measured using the amortization method which requires servicing rights to be amortized into noninterest income in proportion to, and over the period of, the estimated future net servicing income of the underlying loans. Amortization is recorded in loan sales and servicing income.

At each reporting period, mortgage servicing rights are assessed for impairment based on fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis. The Corporation stratifies its servicing rights portfolio into tranches based on loan type and interest rate, the predominant risk characteristics of the underlying loans. Any impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum through a charge to income. If the Corporation later determines that all or a portion of the impairment no longer exists for a particular grouping, a reduction of the allowance may be recorded an an increase to income.

The Corporation also reviews mortgage servicing rights for other-than-temporary impairment each quarter and recognizes a direct write-down when the recoverability of a recorded allowance for impairment is determined to be remote. Unlike an allowance for impairment, a direct write-down permanently reduces the unamortized cost of the mortgage servicing right and the allowance for impairment.

Mortgage servicing rights do not trade in an active open market with readily observable market prices. Although sales of mortgage servicing rights do occur, the exact terms and conditions may not be available. As a result, the fair value of mortgage servicing rights is estimated using discounted cash flow modeling techniques which require management to make assumptions regarding future net servicing income, adjusted for such factors as net servicing income, discount rate and prepayments. The primary assumptions used in determining the current fair value of the Corporation’s mortgage servicing rights as well as a sensitivity analysis are presented in Note 6 (Mortgage Servicing Rights).

The Corporation generally records loan administration fees for servicing loans for investors on the accrual basis of accounting. Servicing fees and late fees related to delinquent loan payments are also recorded on the accrual basis of accounting.

(m) Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost. Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line and declining-balance methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed on the straight-line method based on related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the assets, whichever is shorter.

(n) Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the amount by which the cost of net assets acquired in a business combination exceeds their fair value. Other intangible assets represent the present value of the future stream of income to be derived from the purchase of core deposits. Other intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill and other intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized.

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis at November 30th of each year or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Corporation's reporting units for purposes of this testing are its major lines of business: Commercial, Retail, and Wealth. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step process that requires management to make judgments in determining what assumptions to use in the calculation. The first step in impairment testing is to estimate the fair value of each reporting unit based on valuation techniques including a discounted cash flow model with revenue and profit forecasts and comparing those estimated fair values with the carrying values, which includes the allocated goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill impairment may be indicated and a second step is performed to compute the amount of the impairment by determining an “implied fair value” of goodwill. The determination of a reporting unit’s “implied fair value” of goodwill requires the Corporation to allocate fair value of the reporting unit to the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. Any unallocated fair value represents the “implied fair value” of goodwill, which is compared to its corresponding carrying value. An impairment loss would be recognized as a charge to earnings to the extent the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill.

(o) Other Real Estate Owned

Other real estate owned is included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and is primarily comprised of property acquired through loan foreclosure proceedings or acceptance of a deed-in-lieu of foreclosures, and loans classified as in-substance foreclosure. Other real estate owned is recorded at the lower of the recorded investment in the loan at the time of transfer or the fair value of the underlying property collateral, less estimated selling costs. Any write-down in the carrying value of a property at the time of acquisition is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Any subsequent write-downs to reflect current fair market value, as well as gains and losses on disposition and revenues and expenses incurred in maintaining such properties, are treated as period costs. Other real estate owned also includes bank premises formerly but no longer used for banking. Banking premises are transferred at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less estimated selling costs.

(p) Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

The Corporation uses interest rate swaps, interest rate lock commitments and forward contracts sold to hedge interest rate risk for asset and liability management purposes. All derivatives are recorded as either other assets or other liabilities at fair value. Credit risk associated with derivatives is reflected in the fair values recorded for those positions. Accounting for changes in fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of derivatives differs depending on whether the derivative has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, and further, on the type of hedging relationship. For derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments, the gain or loss is recognized immediately in other operating income. A derivative that is designated and qualifies as a hedging instrument must be designated a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. The Corporation does not have any derivatives that hedge net investments in foreign operations.

Effectiveness measures the extent to which changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument offset changes in the fair value of the hedged item. If the relationship between the change in the fair value of the derivative instrument and the fair value of the hedged item falls within a range considered to be the industry norm, the hedge is considered “highly effective” and qualifies for hedge accounting. A hedge is “ineffective” if the offsetting difference between the fair values falls outside the acceptable range.

A fair value hedge is used to limit exposure to changes in the fair value of existing assets, liabilities and firm commitments caused by changes in interest rates or other economic factors. The Corporation recognizes the gain or loss on these derivatives, as well as the related gain or loss on the underlying hedged item, in earnings during the period in which the fair value changes. If a hedge is perfectly effective, the change in the fair value of the hedged item will be offset, resulting in no net effect on earnings.

A cash flow hedge is used to minimize the variability of future cash flows that is caused by changes in interest rates or other economic factors. The effective portion of a gain or loss on any cash flow hedge is reported as a component of “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” and reclassified into other operating income in the same period or periods that the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of the derivative gain or loss is recognized in other operating income during the current period.

In December 2009, the Corporation corrected an error in hedge accounting for a portfolio of interest rate swaps associated with fixed-rate commercial loans recorded in prior periods. The Corporation assessed the materiality of the error in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 and concluded the error was not material, either individually or in the aggregate, to the results of operations of any prior period or for the year ending December 31, 2009, to trends for those periods affected, or to a fair presentation of the Corporation’s financial statements for those periods. Accordingly, results for prior periods have not been restated. Instead, the Corporation increased other expenses and reduced the commercial loans balance by $3.9 million to correct this error in the fourth quarter of 2009. In addition, this portfolio of interest rate swaps was terminated in January 2010.

The Corporation enters into commitments to originate mortgage loans whereby the interest rate on the prospective loan is determined prior to funding (“rate lock commitments”). Rate lock commitments on mortgage loans that are intended to be sold are considered to be derivatives. Accordingly, such commitments, along with any related fees received from potential borrowers, are recorded at fair value as derivative assets or liabilities, with changes in fair value recorded in net gain or loss on sale of mortgage loans.

(q) Income Taxes

Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are the expected future tax amounts for the temporary differences between the carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities, computed using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized.

A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it "more likely than not" that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the "more likely than not" test, no tax benefit is recorded. Additional information regarding income taxes is included in Note 11 (Income Taxes).

(r) Treasury Stock

Treasury stock is accounted for using the cost method in which reacquired shares reduce outstanding common stock and capital surplus.

(s) Per Share Data

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income less preferred stock dividends by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares plus common stock equivalents computed using the Treasury Share method. All earnings per share disclosures appearing in these financial statements, related notes and management’s discussion and analysis, are computed assuming dilution unless otherwise indicated. The Corporation’s earnings per share calculations are illustrated in Note 19 (Earnings per Share).

(t) Trust Department Assets and Income

Property held by the Corporation in a fiduciary or other capacity for trust customers is not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, since such items are not assets of the Corporation. Trust department income is reported on the accrual basis of accounting.

(u) Share-Based Compensation

The Corporation’s stock based compensation plans are described in detail in Note 13 (Share-Based Compensation). Compensation expense is recognized for stock options and unvested (restricted) stock awards issued to employees, based on the fair value of these awards at the date of grant. A Black Scholes model is utilized to estimate the fair value of stock options, while the market price of the Corporation’s common shares at the date of grant is used to estimate the fair value of unvested (restricted) stock awards.

Compensation cost is recognized over the required service period, generally defined as the vesting period for stock option awards and as the unvested period for nonvested (restricted) stock awards. Certain of the Corporation’s share-based awards contain terms that provide for a graded vesting schedule whereby portions of the award vest in increments over the requisite service period. The Corporation recognizes compensation expense for awards with graded vesting schedule on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

(v) Pension and Other Postretirement Plans

Pension expense is the net of service and interest cost, return on plan assets and amortization of gains and losses not immediately recognized. The overfunded or underfunded status of defined benefit plans is recognized as an asset or liability, respectively, in the balance sheets. Additional information about pension and other postretirement plans is included in Note 12 (Benefit Plans).

(w) Fair Value Measurement

Fair value is defined as the price to sell an asset or transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. It represents an exit price at the measurement date. Market participants are buyers and sellers, who are independent, knowledgeable, and willing and able to transact in the principal (or most advantageous) market for the asset or liability being measured. Current market conditions, including imbalances between supply and demand, are considered in determining fair value. The Corporation values its assets and liabilities in the principal market where it sells the particular asset or transfers the liability with the greatest volume and level of activity. In the absence of a principal market, the valuation is based on the most advantageous market for the asset or liability (i.e., the market where the asset could be sold or the liability transferred at a price that maximizes the amount to be received for the asset or minimizes the amount to be paid to transfer the liability).

In measuring the fair value of an asset, the Corporation assumes the highest and best use of the asset by a market participant to maximize the value of the asset, and does not consider the intended use of the asset.

When measuring the fair value of a liability, the Corporation assumes that the nonperformance risk associated with the liability is the same before and after the transfer. Nonperformance risk is the risk that an obligation will not be satisfied and encompasses not only the Corporation’s own credit risk (i.e., the risk that the Corporation will fail to meet its obligation), but also other risks such as settlement risk. The Corporation considers the effect of its own credit risk on the fair value for any period in which fair value is measured.

There are three acceptable valuation techniques that can be used to measure fair value: the market approach, the income approach and the cost approach. Selection of the appropriate technique for valuing a particular asset or liability takes into consideration the exit market, the nature of the asset or liability being valued, and how a market participant would value the same asset or liability. Ultimately, determination of the appropriate valuation method requires significant judgment, and sufficient knowledge and expertise are required to apply the valuation techniques.

Valuation inputs refer to the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a given asset or liability using one of the three valuation techniques. Inputs can be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are those assumptions which market participants would use in pricing the particular asset or liability. These inputs are based on market data and are obtained from a source independent of the Corporation. Unobservable inputs are assumptions based on the Corporation’s own information or estimate of assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best and most current information available on the measurement date. All inputs, whether observable or unobservable, are ranked in accordance with a prescribed fair value hierarchy which gives the highest ranking to quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest ranking to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Fair values for assets or liabilities classified as Level 2 are based on one or a combination of the following factors: (i) quoted prices for similar assets; (ii) observable inputs for the asset or liability, such as interest rates or yield curves; or (iii) inputs derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Corporation considers an input to be significant if it drives 10% or more of the total fair value of a particular asset or liability.

Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a recurring basis if fair value is measured regularly (i.e., daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly). Recurring valuation occurs at a minimum on the measurement date. Assets and liabilities are considered to be fair valued on a nonrecurring basis if the fair value measurement of the instrument does not necessarily result in a change in the amount recorded on the balance sheet. Generally, nonrecurring valuation is the result of the application of other accounting pronouncements which require assets or liabilities to be assessed for impairment or recorded at the lower of cost or fair value. The fair value of assets or liabilities transferred in or out of Level 3 is measured on the transfer date, with any additional changes in fair value subsequent to the transfer considered to be realized or unrealized gains or losses. Additional information regarding fair value measurements is provided in Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement).

(x) Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications of prior years' amounts have been made to conform to current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on prior year net income or shareholders' equity.

(y) Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards

The following section discusses new accounting policies that were adopted by the Corporation during 2011 and the expected impact of accounting standards recently issued but not yet required to be adopted. To the extent the adoption of new accounting standards materially affects financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity, the impacts are discussed in the applicable notes to the consolidated financial statements as referenced below.

FASB ASU 2010-06, Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements. ASU 2010-06 amends ASC 820 to require additional disclosures regarding fair value measurements. Specifically, the ASU requires disclosure of the amounts of significant transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and the reasons for these transfers; the reasons for any transfers in or out of Level 3; and information in the reconciliation of recurring Level 3 measurements about gross purchases, sales, issuances and settlements. Except for the requirement to disclose purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the reconciliation of recurring Level 3 measurements on a gross basis, all the amendments to ASC 820 by ASU 2010-06 were effective for the Corporation on January 1, 2010. The requirement to separately disclose purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of recurring Level 3 measurements was effective for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011. All required disclosures are incorporated into Note 16 (Fair Value Measurement).

FASB ASU 2010-20, Disclosures about the Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and the Allowance for Credit Losses. ASU 2010-20 requires new qualitative and quantitative disclosures on the allowance for credit losses, credit quality, impaired loans, modifications and nonaccrual and past due financing receivables. The guidance requires that an entity provide disclosures facilitating financial statement users’ evaluation of the nature of credit risk inherent in the entity’s portfolio of financing receivables (i.e., loans), how the risk is analyzed and assessed in arriving at the allowance for credit losses, and the changes and reasons for those changes in the allowance for credit losses. These required disclosures are to be presented on a disaggregated basis at the portfolio segment and the class of financing receivable level. The majority of the additional disclosures (relating to period end balances) were effective for the Corporation as of December 31, 2010. Specific items regarding activity that occurred before the issuance of this accounting guidance, such as the allowance rollforward and modification disclosures were required for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011 and are incorporated into Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses).

FASB ASU 2010-28, When to Perform Step 2 of the Goodwill Impairment Test for Reporting Units with Zero or Negative Carrying Amounts. In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-28, which modifies Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test under ASC 350, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (“ASC 350”), for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts. For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test if it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. In determining whether it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors (as defined in ASC 350) indicating that an impairment may exist. This guidance was effective for the Corporation as of January 1, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2010-28 did not have an impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements.

FASB ASU 2010-29, Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations. In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-29, which clarifies that if a public entity presents comparative financial statements, the entity should disclose revenue and earnings of the combined entity as though the business combination(s) that occurred during the current year had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period only. ASU 2010-29 is effective for the Corporation prospectively for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the January 1, 2011. The Corporation has had no acquisitions subsequent to January 1, 2011.

FASB ASU 2011-02, A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring Is a Troubled Debt Restructuring. In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-02, which provides additional guidance to help creditors in determining whether a creditor has granted a concession and whether a debtor is experiencing financial difficulties for purposes of determining whether a restructuring constitutes a troubled debt restructuring. The amendments in this update were effective for the Corporation beginning in the quarter ended September 30, 2011 and were to be applied retrospectively to January 1, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2011-02 did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s consolidated financial statements. In addition, the modification disclosures described in ASU 2010-20, which were subsequently deferred by ASU 2011-01, Deferral of the Effective Date of Disclosures about Troubled Debt Restructurings, were effective on a prospective basis beginning in the quarter ended September 30, 2011. All required disclosures are incorporated into Note 4 (Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses).

FASB ASU 2011-03, Reconsideration of Effective Control for Repurchase Agreements. In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-03, which removes from the assessment of effective control (1) the criterion requiring the transferor to have the ability to repurchase or redeem the financial assets on substantially the agreed terms, even in the event of default by the transferee, and (2) the collateral maintenance implementation guidance related to that criterion. ASU 2011-03 is effective prospectively for all transactions or modifications of existing transactions that occur on or after January 1, 2012. The Corporation has not completed evaluating the impact of ASU 2011-03 on its consolidated financial statements.

FASB ASU 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. The amendments in this update result in common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”). Consequently, the amendments change the wording used to describe many of the requirements in U.S. GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. For many of the requirements, the FASB does not intend for the amendments in this update to result in a change in the application of the requirements in ASC 820. Some of the amendments clarify the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. Other amendments change a particular principle or requirement for measuring fair value or for disclosing information about fair value measurements. ASU 2011-04 is effective for the Corporation on a prospective basis beginning in the quarter ended March 31, 2012. The Corporation has not completed evaluating the impact of ASU 2011-04 on its consolidated financial statements.

FASB ASU 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income. In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, which provides entities with the option to present the total of comprehensive income, the components of net income, and the components of other comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. In both choices, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income, along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income. Regardless of whether an entity chooses to present comprehensive income in a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive statements, the entity is required 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(s) where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented. This update is effective on a retrospective basis beginning in the quarter ended March 31, 2012. As the Corporation currently reports comprehensive income in a single continuous statement with all of the components required by ASU 2011-05, the adoption of this guidance will not have an impact on its consolidated financial statements.