Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	The Corporation is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Akron, Ohio with 366 banking offices in the Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Pennsylvania areas. The Corporation provides a complete range of banking and other financial services to consumers and businesses through its core operations. 1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Unless otherwise indicated, defined terms and abbreviations used herein have the meanings set forth in the accompanying Glossary of Acronyms and Abbreviations. The accounting and reporting policies of the Corporation conform to GAAP and to general practices within the financial services industry. In preparing these accompanying consolidated financial statements, subsequent events were evaluated through the time the consolidated financial statements were issued. Financial statements are considered issued when they are widely distributed to all shareholders and other financial statement users, or filed with the SEC. The following is a description of the Corporation’s significant accounting policies. (a) Principles of Consolidation The Parent Company is a bank holding company whose principal asset is the common stock of its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank. The Parent Company has one other active subsidiary, FirstMerit Risk Management, Inc. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. (b) Use of Estimates 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 Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under this accounting method, the acquired company's net assets are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, and the results of operations of the acquired company are combined with the Corporation's results from that date forward. Costs related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. The difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the net assets acquired (including intangible assets with finite lives) is recorded as goodwill. The accounting policy for goodwill and intangible assets is summarized in this note under the heading "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets". (d) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and due from banks, interest bearing 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. These securities are reported at amortized cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity using the effective yield method. This method produces a constant rate of return on the adjusted carrying amount. Securities are classified as available-for-sale when the Corporation intends to hold the securities for an indefinite period of time but may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, prepayment risk, liquidity needs or other factors. Securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of income tax, reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity. In certain situations, Management may elect to transfer certain debt securities from the available-for-sale to the held to maturity classification. In such cases, any unrealized gain or loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at the time of transfer is amortized over the remaining life of the security as a yield adjustment such that only the remaining initial discount or premium from the purchase date is recognized in income. Interest and dividends on securities, including the amortization of premiums and accretion of discount, are included in interest income. Realized gains or losses on the sales of available-for-sale securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method. On at least a quarterly basis, Management evaluates securities that are in an unrealized loss position for OTTI. An investment security is deemed impaired if the fair value of the investment is less than its amortized cost. As part of the impairment evaluation, 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 earnings, 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 FHLB and 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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income. (f) Originated Loans and Loan Income Loans originated for investment are stated at their principal amount outstanding adjusted for partial charge-offs, 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. 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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income. A discussion of the valuation methodology applied to the Corporation’s loans held for sale is described in Note 17 (Fair Value Measurement). (h) Nonperforming Loans Loans and leases on which payments are past due for 90 days are placed on nonaccrual, with the exception of certain commercial, credit card and mortgage loans and loans that 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. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan. Loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged off at an earlier date if principal or interest is considered uncollectible. 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 that 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 timely principal and interest payments for a minimum of six payment cycles. 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 TDR. Acquired nonimpaired loans are placed on nonaccrual and considered and reported as nonperforming or past due using the same criteria applied to the originated portfolio. 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”). 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. Increases to the allowance for loan losses are made by charges to the provisions 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. Management estimates credit losses based on individual loans determined to be impaired and on all other loans grouped based on similar risk characteristics. 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. Management also considers internal and external factors such as economic conditions, credit quality trends, 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 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 on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. (j) Acquired Loans, FDIC acquired loans, covered and Related Loss Share Receivable Acquired loans (nonimpaired and impaired) are initially measured at fair value as of the acquisition date. The fair value estimates for acquired loans are based on the estimate of expected cash flows, both principal and interest and prepayments, discounted at prevailing market interest rates. 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. 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 at time of acquisition that all contractually required payments will not be collected. In determining the acquisition date fair value of acquired impaired loans, and in subsequent accounting, the Corporation generally aggregates impaired loans into pools of loans with common characteristics. Each pool is accounted for as a single asset with one composite interest rate and an aggregate expectation of cash flows. Expected cash flows at the acquisition date in excess of the fair value of the loans is referred to as the accretable yield and recorded as interest income over the life of the loans. Acquired impaired loans are not classified as nonaccrual or nonperforming as they are considered to be accruing loans because their interest income relates to the accretable yield recognized at the pool level and not to contractual interest payments at the loan level. Subsequent to the acquisition date, increases in expected cash flows will generally result in a recovery of any previously recorded ALL, to the extent applicable, and/or a reclassification from the nonaccretable difference to accretable yield, which will be recognized prospectively. The present value of any decreases in expected cash flows after the acquisition date will generally result in an impairment charge recorded as a provision for loan losses, resulting in an increase to the ALL, net of any expected reimbursement under FDIC Loss Share Agreements, to the extent applicable. Revolving loans, including lines of credit and credit cards loans, and leases are excluded from acquired impaired loan accounting. For acquired nonimpaired loans, the difference between the acquisition date fair value and the contractual amounts due at the acquisition date represents the fair value adjustment. Fair value adjustments may be discounts (or premiums) to a loan’s cost basis and are accreted (or amortized) to interest income over the loan’s remaining life using the level yield method. Subsequent to the acquisition date, the method utilized to estimate the required allowance for loan losses for these loans is similar to originated loans, however, the Corporation records an allowance for loan losses only when the required allowance, net of any expected reimbursement under any FDIC Loss Share Agreements, to the extent applicable, exceeds the remaining fair value adjustment. Acquired nonimpaired loans are reported net of the unamortized fair value adjustment. Nonimpaired acquired loans are placed on nonaccrual status and reported as nonperforming or past due using the same criteria applied to the originated portfolio. Loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions and covered under FDIC Loss Share Agreements are referred to as covered loans. Covered loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition exclusive of the FDIC 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. The covered loans are subsequently valued and accounted for in the same manner as the acquired loans disclosed above. 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 share receivable, with the offset recorded through the consolidated statement of 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. FDIC acquired loans are loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions for which the FDIC loss share agreement has expired. FDIC acquired loans are subsequently valued and accounted for in the same manner as the acquired loans disclosed above, with the exception that there is no offsetting loss share receivable. An acquired, FDIC acquired or covered loan may be resolved either through receipt of payment (in full or in part) from the borrower, the sale of the loan to a third party, or foreclosure of the collateral. In the period of resolution of a nonimpaired loan, any remaining unamortized fair value adjustment is recognized as interest income. In the period of resolution of an impaired loan accounted for on an individual basis, the difference between the carrying amount of the loan and the proceeds received is recognized as a gain or loss within noninterest income. The majority of impaired loans are accounted for within a pool of loans which results in any difference between the proceeds received and the loan carrying amount being deferred as part of the carrying amount of the pool. The accretable amount of the pool remains unaffected from the resolution until the subsequent quarterly cash flow re-estimation. Favorable results from removal of the resolved loan from the pool increase the future accretable yield of the pool, while unfavorable results are recorded as impairment in the quarter of the cash flow re-estimation. Acquired, FDIC acquired or covered impaired loans subject to modification are not removed from a pool even if those loans would otherwise be deemed TDRs as the pool, and not the individual loan, represents the unit of account. For further discussion of the Corporation’s acquisitions and loan accounting, see Note 3 (Loans), and Note 4 (Allowance for Loan Losses). (k) Equipment Lease Financing The Corporation leases equipment directly to customers. 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. 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 determined 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. 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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income. At each reporting period, MSRs 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 as an increase to income. The Corporation also reviews MSRs for OTTI 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 MSR and the allowance for impairment. MSRs do not trade in an active open market with readily observable market prices. Although sales of MSRs do occur, the exact terms and conditions may not be available. As a result, the fair value of MSRs 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 MSRs as well as a sensitivity analysis are presented in Note 6 (Mortgage Servicing Rights and Mortgage Servicing Activity). 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) Depreciation and Amortization Premises and equipment are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization and principally depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Estimated useful lives for furniture and equipment range from three to 15 years, and depreciable buildings ranges from 10 to 35 years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed on the straight-line method based on related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the assets of up to 15 years, whichever is shorter. The Corporation purchases, as well as internally develops and customizes, certain software to enhance or perform internal business functions. Software development costs incurred in the planning and post-development project stages are charged to noninterest expense. Costs associated with designing software configuration and interfaces, installation, coding programs and testing systems are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to seven years. (n) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the amount by which the cost of net assets acquired in a business combination exceeds their fair value. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step process. The first step compares the reporting unit’s estimated fair values, including goodwill, to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, then goodwill impairment may be indicated. The second step allocates the reporting units fair value to its assets and liabilities. If the unallocated fair value does not exceed the carrying amount of goodwill then an impairment loss would be recognized as a charge to earnings. Other intangible assets represent the present value of the future stream of income to be derived from the purchase of core deposits and trust relationships. Other intangible assets are amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill and other intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized. (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. Foreign exchange derivatives are entered into to accommodate the needs of customers. 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 cash flow hedges or 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. 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 Management evaluates two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period as adjusted by prior year provision to return adjustments. 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 is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax 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. The Corporation follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period of enactment date. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, Management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Assessing the need for, or the sufficiency of, a valuation allowance requires Management to evaluate all available evidence, both negative and positive, including the recent trend of quarterly earnings. Positive evidence necessary to overcome the negative evidence includes whether future taxable income in sufficient amounts and character within the carryback and carryforward periods is available under the tax law, including the use of tax planning strategies. When negative evidence (e.g., cumulative losses in recent years, history of operating loss or tax credit carryforwards expiring unused) exists, more positive evidence than negative evidence will be necessary. Additional information regarding income taxes is included in Note 12 (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. At the date of subsequent reissue, the treasury stock account is reduced by the cost of such stock on the last-in, first-out basis. (s) Per Share Data Basic net income per common share is calculated using the two-class method to determine income attributable to common shareholders. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each share of common stock and participating securities according to dividends declared (distributed earnings) and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Distributed and undistributed earnings are allocated between common and participating security shareholders based on their respective rights to receive dividends. Unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are considered participating securities (i.e., nonvested restricted stock). Undistributed net losses are not allocated to nonvested restricted shareholders, as these shareholders do not have a contractual obligation to fund the losses incurred by the Corporation. Net income attributable to Common Stock is then divided by the weighted-average number of Common Stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common share is calculated under the more dilutive of either the treasury method or two-class method. For the diluted calculation, the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding by the assumed conversion of outstanding convertible preferred stock from the beginning of the year or date of issuance, if later, and the number of shares of Common Stock that would be issued assuming the exercise of stock options and warrants using the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method assumes that the Corporation uses the proceeds from a hypothetical exercise of any options and warrants to repurchase Common Stock at the average market price during the period. These adjustments to the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding are made only when such adjustments will dilute earnings per common share. 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 20 (Shareholders' Equity) under the heading “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 share-based compensation plans are described in detail in Note 14 (Share-Based Compensation). The Corporation recognizes share-based compensation expense using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for all stock awards, including those with graded vesting, and reduced by assumed forfeitures. The requisite service period is the period an employee is required to provide service in order to vest in the award, which cannot extend beyond the date at which the employee is no longer required to perform any service to receive the share-based compensation (the retirement-eligible date). Certain awards are contingent upon performance conditions, which affect the number of awards ultimately granted. The Corporation periodically evaluates the probable outcome of the performance conditions and makes cumulative adjustments to compensation expense as appropriate. (v) Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Pension and other postretirement costs are based on assumptions concerning future events that will affect the amount and timing of required benefit payments under the Corporation’s plans. These assumptions include demographic assumptions such as retirement age and mortality, a compensation rate increase, a discount rate used to determine the current benefit obligation and a long-term expected rate of return on plan assets. Net periodic benefit cost includes service and interest cost based on the assumed discount rate, an expected return on plan assets based on an actuarially derived market-related value and amortization of prior service cost and net actuarial gains or losses. The amortization of any prior service costs is determined using a straight line amortization of the cost over the average remaining lifetime of participants expected to receive benefits under the plans. Actuarial gains and losses include the impact of plan amendments and various unrecognized gains and losses, which are deferred and amortized over the future service periods of active employees. The overfunded or underfunded status of the plans is recorded as an asset or liability, respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, with changes in that status recognized through other comprehensive income. Additional information about pension and other postretirement plans is included in Note 13 (Benefit Plans). (w) Revenue Recognition The Corporation recognizes revenues as they are earned based on contractual terms, as transactions occur, or as services are provided and collectability is reasonably assured. The Corporation’s principal source of revenue is interest income, which is recognized on an accrual basis primarily according to nondiscretionary formulas in written contracts, such as loan agreements or securities contracts. (x) 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 17 (Fair Value Measurement). (y) 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. (z) Recently Adopted Accounting Standards FASB ASU 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Improvements. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of Topics in the Codification. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the accounting guidance and are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. Additionally, some of these amendments will make the accounting guidance easier to understand and eliminate inconsistencies. The ASU is effective immediately. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2015-8, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting—Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115 (SEC Update). The amendments in the SEC Update conform the accounting guidance with the various SEC paragraphs pursuance to the SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115. The SEC Update is effective immediately. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2015-3, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. The amendments in ASU 2015-03, require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from that debt liability, consistent with the presentation of a debt discount. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each individual period presented should be adjusted to reflect the period-specific effects of applying the new guidance. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this ASU. For public business entities, these amendments are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, and early adoption is permitted. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each individual period presented should be adjusted to reflect the period-specific effects of applying the new guidance. Upon transition, an entity is required to comply with the applicable disclosures for a change in an accounting principle. As of June 30, 2015, the Corporation adopted this accounting standard by classifying $3.7 million of deferred debt issuance costs as a deduction to long term debt. Management concluded that the classification of debt issuance costs capitalized in prior periods was immaterial as a component of other assets, total assets, total long term debt, and total liabilities. As such, the Corporation's comparative periods have not been recasted. The amount of unamortized debt issuance costs not recasted are $3.7 million as of December 31, 2014. FASB ASU 2014-14, Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure—a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force. The objective of this update is to reduce diversity in practice by addressing the classification of certain foreclosed mortgage loans held by creditors that are either fully or partially guaranteed under government programs. The amendments in this update require that a mortgage loan be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if the following conditions are met: 1) the loan has a government guarantee that is not separable from the loan before foreclosure; 2) at the time of foreclosure, the creditor has the intent to convey the real estate property to the guarantor and make a claim on the guarantee, and the creditor has the ability to recover under that claim; and 3) at the time of foreclosure, any amount of the claim that is determined on the basis of the fair value of the real estate is fixed. Upon foreclosure, the separate other receivable should be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) expected to be recovered from the guarantor. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments can be adopted using either a prospective transition method or a modified retrospective transition method. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing: Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures. The amendments in this update require entities to account for repurchase-to-maturity transactions as secured borrowings (rather than as sales with forward repurchase agreements), eliminate accounting guidance on linking repurchase financing transactions, and expand disclosure requirements related to certain transfers of financial assets that are accounted for as sales and certain transfers, such as repos, securities lending transactions, and repurchase-to-maturity transactions, accounted for as secured borrowings. The amendments in ASU 2014-11 are effective for the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments must present changes in accounting for transactions outstanding on the effective date as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Early application is prohibited. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment: Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The amendments in this update change the definition of a discontinued operation in ASC 205-20 and require additional disclosures for transactions that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and certain other significant transactions that do not meet the discontinued operations criteria. The amendments in ASU 2014-08 are effective prospectively for all disposals, except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014-04, Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure. ASU 2014-04 amends the guidance in ASC 310-40 by clarifying when an in-substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan. Additionally, the amendments require interim and annual disclosure of both 1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by the creditor and 2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction. The amendments in ASU 2014-04 are effective for annual periods, and interim period within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments can either be adopted using a modified retrospective or a prospective transition method. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014-01, Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects. The amendments in ASU 2014-01 do not change the existing accounting methods, but permit reporting entities to make an accounting policy election to account for their investments in qualified affordable projects using the proportional amortization method, if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, an entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). The amendments in ASU 2014-01 are effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, and should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The Corporation early adopted ASU 2014-01 in the first quarter of 2014. Amortization of the initial investment cost of qualifying projects is now recorded in the provision for income taxes together with the tax credits and benefits received. Previously, the amortization was recorded as other noninterest expense. All prior period amounts have been restated to reflect the adoption of the amendment, which resulted in an offsetting decrease to other noninterest expense and increase to the provision for income taxes of approximately $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. (aa) Recently Issued Accounting Standards FASB ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The amendments in this Update supersede the guidance to classify equity securities with readily determinable fair values into different categories (that is, trading or available-for-sale) and require equity securities (including other ownership interests, such as partnerships, unincorporated joint ventures, and limited liability companies) to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income. The amendments allow equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values to be remeasured at fair value either upon the occurrence of an observable price change or upon identification of an impairment. The amendments also require enhanced disclosures about those investments. The amendments improve financial reporting by providing relevant information about an entity’s equity investments and reducing the number of items that are recognized in other comprehensive income. For public business entities, the amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments should be applied by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The amendments in ASU 2015-16 require an entity to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. For public business entities, the amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments in this update should be applied prospectively to adjustments to provisional amounts that occur after the effective date of this update with earlier application permitted for financial statements that have not been issued. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2015-5, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The amendments in ASU 2015-05 provide guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The guidance will not change GAAP for a customer’s accounting for service contracts. In addition, the guidance in this update supersedes 350-40-25-16. Consequently, all software licenses within the scope of Subtopic 350-40 will be accounted for consistent with other licenses of intangible assets. The amendments are effective for public business entities for annual and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. An entity can elect to adopt the amendments either (1) prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date or (2) retrospectively. For prospective transition, the only disclosure requirements at transition are the nature of and reason for the change in accounting principle, the transition method, and a qualitative description of the financial statement line items affected by the change. For retrospective transition, the disclosure requirements at transition include the requirements for prospective transition and quantitative information about the effects of the accounting change. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2015-2, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis. The amendments in ASU 2015-02 affect reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. These amendments modify the current accounting guidance to address limited partnerships and similar entities; certain investments funds, fees paid to a decision maker or service provider, and the impact of fee arrangements and related parties on the primary beneficiary determination. The amendments are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. If an entity early adopts the amendments in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. A reporting entity may apply the amendments using a modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative-effect adjustment to equity as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. A reporting entity also may apply the amendments retrospectively. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014–12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved After the Requisite Service Period — a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force. The amendments in this update clarify that entities should treat performance targets that can be met after the requisite service period of a share-based payment award as performance conditions that affect vesting. Therefore, an entity would not record compensation expense (measured as of the grant date without taking into account the effect of the performance target) related to an award for which transfer to the employee is contingent on the entity’s satisfaction of a performance target until it becomes probable that the performance target will be met. The ASU does not contain any new disclosure requirements. The ASU is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. In addition, entities will have the option of applying the guidance either prospectively (i.e., only to awards granted or modified on or after the effective date) or retrospectively. Retrospective application would only apply to awards with performance targets outstanding at or after the beginning of the first annual period presented (i.e., the earliest presented comparative period). The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations. FASB ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that revises the criteria for determining when to recognize revenue from contracts with customers and expands disclosure requirements. The amendments in this update supersede virtually all existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance, including most industry-specific revenue recognition guidance. The core principle requires an entity to recognize revenue in a manner that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 applies to contracts with customers to provide goods and services, with certain exclusions such as lease contracts, financing arrangements, and financial instruments. On July 9, 2015, the FASB decided to delay, by one year, the effective dates, permitting public entities to apply this guidance to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted, but not before December 15, 2016. The amendments can be adopted using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach. There are many aspects of this new accounting guidance that are still being interpreted, and the FASB has recently proposed updates to certain aspects of the guidance. The Corporation is in process of assessing the potential impact the adoption of this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

The Corporation is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Akron, Ohio with 366 banking offices in the Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Pennsylvania areas. The Corporation provides a complete range of banking and other financial services to consumers and businesses through its core operations.

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Unless otherwise indicated, defined terms and abbreviations used herein have the meanings set forth in the accompanying Glossary of Acronyms and Abbreviations.

The accounting and reporting policies of the Corporation conform to GAAP and to general practices within the financial services industry.

In preparing these accompanying consolidated financial statements, subsequent events were evaluated through the time the consolidated financial statements were issued. Financial statements are considered issued when they are widely distributed to all shareholders and other financial statement users, or filed with the SEC.

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

(a) Principles of Consolidation

The Parent Company is a bank holding company whose principal asset is the common stock of its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Bank. The Parent Company has one other active subsidiary, FirstMerit Risk Management, Inc. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

(b) Use of Estimates

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.

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under this accounting method, the acquired company's net assets are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, and the results of operations of the acquired company are combined with the Corporation's results from that date forward. Costs related to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. The difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the net assets acquired (including intangible assets with finite lives) is recorded as goodwill. The accounting policy for goodwill and intangible assets is summarized in this note under the heading "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets".

(d) Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and due from banks, interest bearing 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. These securities are reported at amortized cost, adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity using the effective yield method. This method produces a constant rate of return on the adjusted carrying amount.

Securities are classified as available-for-sale when the Corporation intends to hold the securities for an indefinite period of time but may be sold in response to changes in interest rates, prepayment risk, liquidity needs or other factors. Securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of income tax, reported as a separate component of other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity.

In certain situations, Management may elect to transfer certain debt securities from the available-for-sale to the held to maturity classification. In such cases, any unrealized gain or loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at the time of transfer is amortized over the remaining life of the security as a yield adjustment such that only the remaining initial discount or premium from the purchase date is recognized in income.

Interest and dividends on securities, including the amortization of premiums and accretion of discount, are included in interest income. Realized gains or losses on the sales of available-for-sale securities are recorded on the trade date and determined using the specific identification method.

On at least a quarterly basis, Management evaluates securities that are in an unrealized loss position for OTTI. An investment security is deemed impaired if the fair value of the investment is less than its amortized cost. As part of the impairment evaluation, 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 earnings, 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 FHLB and 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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

(f) Originated Loans and Loan Income

Loans originated for investment are stated at their principal amount outstanding adjusted for partial charge-offs, 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. 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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

A discussion of the valuation methodology applied to the Corporation’s loans held for sale is described in Note 17 (Fair Value Measurement).

(h) Nonperforming Loans

Loans and leases on which payments are past due for 90 days are placed on nonaccrual, with the exception of certain commercial, credit card and mortgage loans and loans that 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. Past due status is based on the contractual terms of the loan. Loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged off at an earlier date if principal or interest is considered uncollectible.

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 that 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 timely principal and interest payments for a minimum of six payment cycles.

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 TDR.

Acquired nonimpaired loans are placed on nonaccrual and considered and reported as nonperforming or past due using the same criteria applied to the originated portfolio. 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”). 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. Increases to the allowance for loan losses are made by charges to the provisions 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. Management estimates credit losses based on individual loans determined to be impaired and on all other loans grouped based on similar risk characteristics.

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.

Management also considers internal and external factors such as economic conditions, credit quality trends, 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 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 on the Consolidated Balance Sheet.

(j) Acquired Loans, FDIC acquired loans, covered and Related Loss Share Receivable

Acquired loans (nonimpaired and impaired) are initially measured at fair value as of the acquisition date. The fair value estimates for acquired loans are based on the estimate of expected cash flows, both principal and interest and prepayments, discounted at prevailing market interest rates. 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.

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 at time of acquisition that all contractually required payments will not be collected. In determining the acquisition date fair value of acquired impaired loans, and in subsequent accounting, the Corporation generally aggregates impaired loans into pools of loans with common characteristics. Each pool is accounted for as a single asset with one composite interest rate and an aggregate expectation of cash flows. Expected cash flows at the acquisition date in excess of the fair value of the loans is referred to as the accretable yield and recorded as interest income over the life of the loans. Acquired impaired loans are not classified as nonaccrual or nonperforming as they are considered to be accruing loans because their interest income relates to the accretable yield recognized at the pool level and not to contractual interest payments at the loan level. Subsequent to the acquisition date, increases in expected cash flows will generally result in a recovery of any previously recorded ALL, to the extent applicable, and/or a reclassification from the nonaccretable difference to accretable yield, which will be recognized prospectively. The present value of any decreases in expected cash flows after the acquisition date will generally result in an impairment charge recorded as a provision for loan losses, resulting in an increase to the ALL, net of any expected reimbursement under FDIC Loss Share Agreements, to the extent applicable. Revolving loans, including lines of credit and credit cards loans, and leases are excluded from acquired impaired loan accounting.

For acquired nonimpaired loans, the difference between the acquisition date fair value and the contractual amounts due at the acquisition date represents the fair value adjustment. Fair value adjustments may be discounts (or premiums) to a loan’s cost basis and are accreted (or amortized) to interest income over the loan’s remaining life using the level yield method. Subsequent to the acquisition date, the method utilized to estimate the required allowance for loan losses for these loans is similar to originated loans, however, the Corporation records an allowance for loan losses only when the required allowance, net of any expected reimbursement under any FDIC Loss Share Agreements, to the extent applicable, exceeds the remaining fair value adjustment. Acquired nonimpaired loans are reported net of the unamortized fair value adjustment. Nonimpaired acquired loans are placed on nonaccrual status and reported as nonperforming or past due using the same criteria applied to the originated portfolio.

Loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions and covered under FDIC Loss Share Agreements are referred to as covered loans. Covered loans are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition exclusive of the FDIC 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. The covered loans are subsequently valued and accounted for in the same manner as the acquired loans disclosed above.

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 share receivable, with the offset recorded through the consolidated statement of 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.

FDIC acquired loans are loans acquired in FDIC assisted transactions for which the FDIC loss share agreement has expired. FDIC acquired loans are subsequently valued and accounted for in the same manner as the acquired loans disclosed above, with the exception that there is no offsetting loss share receivable.

An acquired, FDIC acquired or covered loan may be resolved either through receipt of payment (in full or in part) from the borrower, the sale of the loan to a third party, or foreclosure of the collateral. In the period of resolution of a nonimpaired loan, any remaining unamortized fair value adjustment is recognized as interest income. In the period of resolution of an impaired loan accounted for on an individual basis, the difference between the carrying amount of the loan and the proceeds received is recognized as a gain or loss within noninterest income. The majority of impaired loans are accounted for within a pool of loans which results in any difference between the proceeds received and the loan carrying amount being deferred as part of the carrying amount of the pool. The accretable amount of the pool remains unaffected from the resolution until the subsequent quarterly cash flow re-estimation. Favorable results from removal of the resolved loan from the pool increase the future accretable yield of the pool, while unfavorable results are recorded as impairment in the quarter of the cash flow re-estimation. Acquired, FDIC acquired or covered impaired loans subject to modification are not removed from a pool even if those loans would otherwise be deemed TDRs as the pool, and not the individual loan, represents the unit of account.

For further discussion of the Corporation’s acquisitions and loan accounting, see Note 3 (Loans), and Note 4 (Allowance for Loan Losses).

(k) Equipment Lease Financing

The Corporation leases equipment directly to customers. 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. 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 determined 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.

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 in the Consolidated Statement of Income.

At each reporting period, MSRs 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 as an increase to income.

The Corporation also reviews MSRs for OTTI 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 MSR and the allowance for impairment.

MSRs do not trade in an active open market with readily observable market prices. Although sales of MSRs do occur, the exact terms and conditions may not be available. As a result, the fair value of MSRs 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 MSRs as well as a sensitivity analysis are presented in Note 6 (Mortgage Servicing Rights and Mortgage Servicing Activity).

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) Depreciation and Amortization

Premises and equipment are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization and principally depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Estimated useful lives for furniture and equipment range from three to 15 years, and depreciable buildings ranges from 10 to 35 years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed on the straight-line method based on related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the assets of up to 15 years, whichever is shorter.

The Corporation purchases, as well as internally develops and customizes, certain software to enhance or perform internal business functions. Software development costs incurred in the planning and post-development project stages are charged to noninterest expense. Costs associated with designing software configuration and interfaces, installation, coding programs and testing systems are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to seven years.

(n) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the amount by which the cost of net assets acquired in a business combination exceeds their fair value. Goodwill is evaluated for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step process. The first step compares the reporting unit’s estimated fair values, including goodwill, to its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, then goodwill impairment may be indicated. The second step allocates the reporting units fair value to its assets and liabilities. If the unallocated fair value does not exceed the carrying amount of goodwill then an impairment loss would be recognized as a charge to earnings.

Other intangible assets represent the present value of the future stream of income to be derived from the purchase of core deposits and trust relationships. Other intangible assets are amortized on an accelerated basis over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill and other intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized.

(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. Foreign exchange derivatives are entered into to accommodate the needs of customers. 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 cash flow hedges or 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.

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

Management evaluates two components of income tax expense: current and deferred. Current income tax expense reflects taxes to be paid or refunded for the current period as adjusted by prior year provision to return adjustments. 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 is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained in a tax examination, with a tax 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.

The Corporation follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of “temporary differences” by applying enacted statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of existing assets and liabilities. The effect of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period of enactment date.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, Management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Assessing the need for, or the sufficiency of, a valuation allowance requires Management to evaluate all available evidence, both negative and positive, including the recent trend of quarterly earnings. Positive evidence necessary to overcome the negative evidence includes whether future taxable income in sufficient amounts and character within the carryback and carryforward periods is available under the tax law, including the use of tax planning strategies. When negative evidence (e.g., cumulative losses in recent years, history of operating loss or tax credit carryforwards expiring unused) exists, more positive evidence than negative evidence will be necessary.

Additional information regarding income taxes is included in Note 12 (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. At the date of subsequent reissue, the treasury stock account is reduced by the cost of such stock on the last-in, first-out basis.

(s) Per Share Data

Basic net income per common share is calculated using the two-class method to determine income attributable to common shareholders. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings per share for each share of common stock and participating securities according to dividends declared (distributed earnings) and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Distributed and undistributed earnings are allocated between common and participating security shareholders based on their respective rights to receive dividends. Unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are considered participating securities (i.e., nonvested restricted stock). Undistributed net losses are not allocated to nonvested restricted shareholders, as these shareholders do not have a contractual obligation to fund the losses incurred by the Corporation. Net income attributable to Common Stock is then divided by the weighted-average number of Common Stock outstanding during the period.

Diluted net income per common share is calculated under the more dilutive of either the treasury method or two-class method. For the diluted calculation, the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding by the assumed conversion of outstanding convertible preferred stock from the beginning of the year or date of issuance, if later, and the number of shares of Common Stock that would be issued assuming the exercise of stock options and warrants using the treasury stock method. The treasury stock method assumes that the Corporation uses the proceeds from a hypothetical exercise of any options and warrants to repurchase Common Stock at the average market price during the period. These adjustments to the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding are made only when such adjustments will dilute earnings per common share.

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 20 (Shareholders' Equity) under the heading “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 share-based compensation plans are described in detail in Note 14 (Share-Based Compensation). The Corporation recognizes share-based compensation expense using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for all stock awards, including those with graded vesting, and reduced by assumed forfeitures. The requisite service period is the period an employee is required to provide service in order to vest in the award, which cannot extend beyond the date at which the employee is no longer required to perform any service to receive the share-based compensation (the retirement-eligible date). Certain awards are contingent upon performance conditions, which affect the number of awards ultimately granted. The Corporation periodically evaluates the probable outcome of the performance conditions and makes cumulative adjustments to compensation expense as appropriate.

(v) Pension and Other Postretirement Plans

Pension and other postretirement costs are based on assumptions concerning future events that will affect the amount and timing of required benefit payments under the Corporation’s plans. These assumptions include demographic assumptions such as retirement age and mortality, a compensation rate increase, a discount rate used to determine the current benefit obligation and a long-term expected rate of return on plan assets. Net periodic benefit cost includes service and interest cost based on the assumed discount rate, an expected return on plan assets based on an actuarially derived market-related value and amortization of prior service cost and net actuarial gains or losses. The amortization of any prior service costs is determined using a straight line amortization of the cost over the average remaining lifetime of participants expected to receive benefits under the plans. Actuarial gains and losses include the impact of plan amendments and various unrecognized gains and losses, which are deferred and amortized over the future service periods of active employees. The overfunded or underfunded status of the plans is recorded as an asset or liability, respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, with changes in that status recognized through other comprehensive income. Additional information about pension and other postretirement plans is included in Note 13 (Benefit Plans).

(w) Revenue Recognition

The Corporation recognizes revenues as they are earned based on contractual terms, as transactions occur, or as services are provided and collectability is reasonably assured. The Corporation’s principal source of revenue is interest income, which is recognized on an accrual basis primarily according to nondiscretionary formulas in written contracts, such as loan agreements or securities contracts.

(x) 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 17 (Fair Value Measurement).

(y) 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.

(z) Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

FASB ASU 2015-10, Technical Corrections and Improvements. The amendments in this update cover a wide range of Topics in the Codification. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the accounting guidance and are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. Additionally, some of these amendments will make the accounting guidance easier to understand and eliminate inconsistencies. The ASU is effective immediately. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2015-8, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Pushdown Accounting—Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115 (SEC Update). The amendments in the SEC Update conform the accounting guidance with the various SEC paragraphs pursuance to the SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 115. The SEC Update is effective immediately. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2015-3, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. The amendments in ASU 2015-03, require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from that debt liability, consistent with the presentation of a debt discount. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each individual period presented should be adjusted to reflect the period-specific effects of applying the new guidance. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this ASU. For public business entities, these amendments are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, and early adoption is permitted. An entity should apply the new guidance on a retrospective basis, wherein the balance sheet of each individual period presented should be adjusted to reflect the period-specific effects of applying the new guidance. Upon transition, an entity is required to comply with the applicable disclosures for a change in an accounting principle. As of June 30, 2015, the Corporation adopted this accounting standard by classifying $3.7 million of deferred debt issuance costs as a deduction to long term debt. Management concluded that the classification of debt issuance costs capitalized in prior periods was immaterial as a component of other assets, total assets, total long term debt, and total liabilities. As such, the Corporation's comparative periods have not been recasted. The amount of unamortized debt issuance costs not recasted are $3.7 million as of December 31, 2014.

FASB ASU 2014-14, Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure—a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force. The objective of this update is to reduce diversity in practice by addressing the classification of certain foreclosed mortgage loans held by creditors that are either fully or partially guaranteed under government programs. The amendments in this update require that a mortgage loan be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if the following conditions are met: 1) the loan has a government guarantee that is not separable from the loan before foreclosure; 2) at the time of foreclosure, the creditor has the intent to convey the real estate property to the guarantor and make a claim on the guarantee, and the creditor has the ability to recover under that claim; and 3) at the time of foreclosure, any amount of the claim that is determined on the basis of the fair value of the real estate is fixed. Upon foreclosure, the separate other receivable should be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) expected to be recovered from the guarantor. The ASU is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments can be adopted using either a prospective transition method or a modified retrospective transition method. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing: Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures. The amendments in this update require entities to account for repurchase-to-maturity transactions as secured borrowings (rather than as sales with forward repurchase agreements), eliminate accounting guidance on linking repurchase financing transactions, and expand disclosure requirements related to certain transfers of financial assets that are accounted for as sales and certain transfers, such as repos, securities lending transactions, and repurchase-to-maturity transactions, accounted for as secured borrowings. The amendments in ASU 2014-11 are effective for the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments must present changes in accounting for transactions outstanding on the effective date as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Early application is prohibited. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant, and Equipment: Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. The amendments in this update change the definition of a discontinued operation in ASC 205-20 and require additional disclosures for transactions that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and certain other significant transactions that do not meet the discontinued operations criteria. The amendments in ASU 2014-08 are effective prospectively for all disposals, except disposals classified as held for sale before the adoption date or components initially classified as held for sale in periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014-04, Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure. ASU 2014-04 amends the guidance in ASC 310-40 by clarifying when an in-substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan. Additionally, the amendments require interim and annual disclosure of both 1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by the creditor and 2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction. The amendments in ASU 2014-04 are effective for annual periods, and interim period within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. The amendments can either be adopted using a modified retrospective or a prospective transition method. The adoption of this accounting guidance did not have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014-01, Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects. The amendments in ASU 2014-01 do not change the existing accounting methods, but permit reporting entities to make an accounting policy election to account for their investments in qualified affordable projects using the proportional amortization method, if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, an entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit). The amendments in ASU 2014-01 are effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, and should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The Corporation early adopted ASU 2014-01 in the first quarter of 2014. Amortization of the initial investment cost of qualifying projects is now recorded in the provision for income taxes together with the tax credits and benefits received. Previously, the amortization was recorded as other noninterest expense. All prior period amounts have been restated to reflect the adoption of the amendment, which resulted in an offsetting decrease to other noninterest expense and increase to the provision for income taxes of approximately $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

(aa) Recently Issued Accounting Standards

FASB ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The amendments in this Update supersede the guidance to classify equity securities with readily determinable fair values into different categories (that is, trading or available-for-sale) and require equity securities (including other ownership interests, such as partnerships, unincorporated joint ventures, and limited liability companies) to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income. The amendments allow equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values to be remeasured at fair value either upon the occurrence of an observable price change or upon identification of an impairment. The amendments also require enhanced disclosures about those investments. The amendments improve financial reporting by providing relevant information about an entity’s equity investments and reducing the number of items that are recognized in other comprehensive income. For public business entities, the amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments should be applied by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805), Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments. The amendments in ASU 2015-16 require an entity to present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the portion of the amount recorded in current-period earnings by line item that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to the provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. For public business entities, the amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments in this update should be applied prospectively to adjustments to provisional amounts that occur after the effective date of this update with earlier application permitted for financial statements that have not been issued. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2015-5, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement. The amendments in ASU 2015-05 provide guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, then the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The guidance will not change GAAP for a customer’s accounting for service contracts. In addition, the guidance in this update supersedes 350-40-25-16. Consequently, all software licenses within the scope of Subtopic 350-40 will be accounted for consistent with other licenses of intangible assets. The amendments are effective for public business entities for annual and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. An entity can elect to adopt the amendments either (1) prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date or (2) retrospectively. For prospective transition, the only disclosure requirements at transition are the nature of and reason for the change in accounting principle, the transition method, and a qualitative description of the financial statement line items affected by the change. For retrospective transition, the disclosure requirements at transition include the requirements for prospective transition and quantitative information about the effects of the accounting change. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2015-2, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis. The amendments in ASU 2015-02 affect reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. These amendments modify the current accounting guidance to address limited partnerships and similar entities; certain investments funds, fees paid to a decision maker or service provider, and the impact of fee arrangements and related parties on the primary beneficiary determination. The amendments are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. If an entity early adopts the amendments in an interim period, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. A reporting entity may apply the amendments using a modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative-effect adjustment to equity as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. A reporting entity also may apply the amendments retrospectively. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation's financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014–12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved After the Requisite Service Period — a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force. The amendments in this update clarify that entities should treat performance targets that can be met after the requisite service period of a share-based payment award as performance conditions that affect vesting. Therefore, an entity would not record compensation expense (measured as of the grant date without taking into account the effect of the performance target) related to an award for which transfer to the employee is contingent on the entity’s satisfaction of a performance target until it becomes probable that the performance target will be met. The ASU does not contain any new disclosure requirements. The ASU is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. In addition, entities will have the option of applying the guidance either prospectively (i.e., only to awards granted or modified on or after the effective date) or retrospectively. Retrospective application would only apply to awards with performance targets outstanding at or after the beginning of the first annual period presented (i.e., the earliest presented comparative period). The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material effect on the Corporation’s financial position or results of operations.

FASB ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. In May 2014, the FASB issued new accounting guidance that revises the criteria for determining when to recognize revenue from contracts with customers and expands disclosure requirements. The amendments in this update supersede virtually all existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance, including most industry-specific revenue recognition guidance. The core principle requires an entity to recognize revenue in a manner that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 applies to contracts with customers to provide goods and services, with certain exclusions such as lease contracts, financing arrangements, and financial instruments. On July 9, 2015, the FASB decided to delay, by one year, the effective dates, permitting public entities to apply this guidance to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted, but not before December 15, 2016. The amendments can be adopted using either the full retrospective approach or a modified retrospective approach. There are many aspects of this new accounting guidance that are still being interpreted, and the FASB has recently proposed updates to certain aspects of the guidance. The Corporation is in process of assessing the potential impact the adoption of this guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.