Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
General	General Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. (“Hallmark” and, together with subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is an insurance holding company engaged in the sale of property/casualty insurance products to businesses and individuals. Our business involves marketing, distributing, underwriting and servicing our insurance products, as well as providing other insurance related services. We market, distribute, underwrite and service our property/casualty insurance products primarily through business units organized by products and distribution channel. Our business units are supported by our insurance company subsidiaries. Our Commercial Auto business unit offers primary and excess commercial vehicle insurance products and services; our E&S Casualty business unit offers primary and excess liability, excess public entity liability, E&S package and garage liability insurance products and services; our E&S Property business unit offers primary and excess commercial property insurance for both catastrophe and non-catastrophe exposures; our Professional Liability business unit offers healthcare and financial lines professional liability insurance products and services primarily for businesses, medical professionals, medical facilities and senior care facilities; and our Aerospace & Programs business unit offers general aviation and, until exited during 2020, satellite launch property/casualty insurance products and services, as well as certain specialty programs. Our Commercial Accounts business unit offers package and monoline property/casualty and occupational accident insurance products. Effective June 1, 2016 we ceased marketing new or renewal occupational accident policies. Our former Workers Compensation operating unit specialized in small and middle market workers compensation business. Effective July 1, 2015, we no longer market or retain any risk on new or renewal workers compensation policies. Our Specialty Personal Lines business unit offers non-standard personal automobile and renters insurance products and services. Our insurance company subsidiaries supporting these business units are American Hallmark Insurance Company of Texas (“AHIC”), Hallmark Insurance Company (“HIC”), Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company (“HSIC”), Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Company (“HCM”), Hallmark National Insurance Company (“HNIC”) and Texas Builders Insurance Company (“TBIC”). These business units are segregated into three reportable industry segments for financial accounting purposes. The Specialty Commercial Segment includes our Commercial Auto business unit, E&S Casualty business unit, E&S Property business unit, Professional Liability business unit and Aerospace & Programs business unit. The Standard Commercial Segment consists of the Commercial Accounts business unit and the runoff from our former Workers Compensation operating unit. The Personal Segment consists solely of our Specialty Personal Lines business unit.
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of Hallmark and its subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) which, as to our insurance company subsidiaries, differ from statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted for insurance companies by insurance regulatory authorities.
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Since future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment may be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. The liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expenses and related amounts recoverable from reinsurers represents the most significant estimate in the accompanying financial statements, and any difference between such estimate and actual results could be material. Significant estimates in the accompanying financial statements also include the fair values of investments, deferred policy acquisition cost recoverability, deferred tax asset valuation, and fair value of goodwill and intangible assets.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair value estimates are made at a point in time, based on relevant market data as well as the best information available about the financial instruments. Fair value estimates for financial instruments for which no or limited observable market data is available are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, credit and interest rate risk. These estimates involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. As a result, such calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument. In addition, changes in the underlying assumptions used in the fair value measurement technique, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect these fair value estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets for these instruments approximate their fair values. Restricted Cash: The carrying amount for restricted cash reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximates the fair value. Subordinated debt securities: Our trust preferred securities are reported at a carrying value of $55.9 million and $55.9 million, and had a fair value of $29.4 million and $26.6. million, as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value. Senior unsecured notes due 2029: Our senior unsecured notes payable due in 2029 had a carrying value of $49.3 million and $49.1 million and a fair value of $52.2 million and $54.3 million, as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Our senior unsecured notes payable would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value. For reinsurance balances, premiums receivable, federal income tax recoverable/payable, other assets and other liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of such financial instruments.
Investments	Investments Debt securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”), net of related tax effects. The Company reviews its impaired securities for possible other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") at each quarter end. A security has an impairment loss when its fair value is less than its cost or amortized cost at the balance sheet date. The Company considers the following factors in performing its review: (i) the amount by which the security’s fair value is less than its cost, (ii) length of time the security has been impaired, (iii) whether management has the intent to sell the security, (iv) if it is more likely than not that management will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, (v) whether the impairment is due to an issuer-specific event, credit issues or change in market interest rates, (vi) the security’s credit rating and any recent downgrades or (vii) stress testing of expected cash flows under different scenarios. If the Company cannot assert these conditions, an OTTI loss is recorded through the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the current period. For all other impaired securities, the Company will assess whether the net present value of the cash flows expected to be collected from the security is less than its amortized cost basis. Such a shortfall in cash flows is referred to as a “credit loss.” For any such security, the Company separates the impairment loss into: (i) the credit loss and (ii) the non-credit loss, which is the amount related to all other factors such as interest rate changes, fluctuations in exchange rates and market conditions. The credit loss charge is recorded to the current period statements of operations and the non-credit loss is recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), within shareholders’ equity, on an after-tax basis. A security’s cost basis is permanently reduced by the amount of a credit loss. Income is accreted over the remaining life of a security based on the interest rate necessary to discount the expected future cash flows to the new basis. Debt security premiums and discounts are amortized into earnings using the effective interest method. Maturities of debt securities and sales of equity securities are recorded in receivable for securities until the cash is settled. Purchases of debt and equity securities are recorded in payable for securities until the cash is settled. Equity securities are reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are not required to be evaluated for other-than-temporary impairment. Realized investment gains and losses are recognized in operations on the first in-first out method.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less.
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash Restricted cash represents amounts required to be set aside by a contractual agreement with a third-party insurer and amounts pledged for the benefit of various state insurance departments.
Premiums Receivable	Premiums Receivable Premiums receivable represent amounts due from policyholders or independent agents for premiums written and uncollected. These balances are reported net of an allowance for expected credit losses. The allowance is based upon the Company’s review of amounts outstanding, including delinquencies and write-offs. Credit risk is partially mitigated by the Company’s ability to cancel the policy if the policyholder does not pay for the premium.
Reinsurance	Reinsurance Reinsurance premiums, commissions, losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") on reinsured business are accounted for on a basis consistent with that used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. The amounts reported as reinsurance recoverables include amounts billed to reinsurers on losses and LAE paid as well as estimates of amounts expected to be recovered from reinsurers on insurance liabilities that have not yet been paid. Reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and LAE are estimated based upon assumptions consistent with those used in establishing the gross liabilities as they are applied to the underlying reinsured contracts. The Company records an allowance for uncollectible reinsurance recoverables based on an assessment of the reinsurer’s creditworthiness and collectability of the recorded amounts. Management believes an allowance for uncollectible recoverables from its reinsurers was not necessary for the periods presented. The Company receives ceding commissions in connection with certain ceded reinsurance. The ceding commissions are recorded as a reduction of policy acquisition costs. (See Note 7.)
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Policy acquisition costs (mainly direct commission, premium taxes, underwriting, marketing expenses and ceding commission) that are directly related to the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance contracts are deferred and recognized to operations over periods in which the related premiums are earned. The method followed in computing deferred policy acquisition costs limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value. In determining estimated realizable value, the computation gives effect to the premium to be earned, expected investment income, losses and LAE and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premiums are earned. If the computation results in an estimated net realizable value less than zero, a liability will be accrued for the premium deficiency. During 2021 and 2020, we deferred ($97.7) million and ($152.7) million of direct policy acquisition costs and amortized $107.1 million and $165.6 million of deferred direct policy acquisition costs, respectively. During 2021 and 2020, we deferred $73.5 million and $79.0 million of ceding commission acquisition costs and amortized ($71.9) million and ($86.7) million of deferred ceding commission acquisition costs, respectively. Therefore, the net amortization (deferrals) of policy acquisition costs were $11.0 million and $5.2 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net	Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net We account for our goodwill and intangible assets according to ASC 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other” (ASC 350). Under ASC 350, intangible assets with a finite life are amortized over the estimated useful life of the asset. Goodwill and intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not amortized. Goodwill and intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. For goodwill, we may perform a qualitative test to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The quantitative impairment test requires an impairment loss be measured as the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value (not to exceed the total goodwill allocated to that reporting unit). We have elected to perform our goodwill impairment test on the first day of the fourth quarter, October 1, of each year. In connection with our normal process for evaluating impairment triggering events, during the first quarter of 2020 we determined that a significant decline in market capitalization below the Company’s stockholders’ equity indicated the impairment of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets included on the balance sheet. As a result, the Company took a $44.7 million charge to goodwill and a $1.3 million charge to indefinite-lived intangible assets during the first quarter of 2020. Consequently, as of December 31, 2021 there was no goodwill or indefinite lived intangible assets reported on our consolidated balance sheet.
Leases	Leases We have several leases, primarily for office facilities and computer equipment, which expire in various years through 2033. Some of these leases include rent escalation provisions throughout the term of the lease. We expense the average annual cost of the lease with the difference to the actual rent invoices recorded as a right of use asset and a lease obligation. Right of use assets and lease obligations are classified in other assets and in accounts payable and other accrued expenses, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets. (see Note 21)
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment (including leasehold improvements), aggregating $38.2 million and $36.3 million, at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which is included in other assets, is recorded at cost and is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets (three to ten years) or the life of the lease, whichever is shorter. Property and equipment includes $3.8 million and $2.9 million of leasehold incentives at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, from the adoption of ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” effective January 1, 2019. Depreciation expense for 2021 and 2020 was $2.9 million and $3.3 million, respectively. Accumulated depreciation was $30.0 million and $27.1 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Under ASC 360, “Impairment or disposal of long-lived assets,” property and equipment is tested for impairment annually. As of December 31, 2021, no impairment was considered necessary.
Variable Interest Entities	Variable Interest Entities On June 21, 2005, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust I (“Trust I”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $30.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust I used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $30.9 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust I, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust I. On August 23, 2007, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust II (“Trust II”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $25.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust II used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $25.8 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust II, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust II. We evaluate on an ongoing basis our investments in Trust I and Trust II (collectively, the “Trusts”) and we do not have variable interests in the Trusts. Therefore, the Trusts are not consolidated in our consolidated financial statements.
Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses The liability for unpaid losses and LAE in the Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the Company’s estimate of the amount it expects to pay for the ultimate cost of all losses and LAE incurred that remain unpaid at the balance sheet date. The liability is recorded on an undiscounted basis, except for the liability for unpaid losses and LAE assumed related to acquired companies which are initially recorded at fair value. The process of estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is a complex process that requires a high degree of judgment. The liability for unpaid losses and LAE represents the accumulation of individual case estimates for reported losses and LAE, and actuarially determined estimates for incurred but not reported losses and LAE. The liability for unpaid losses and LAE is intended to include the ultimate net cost of all losses and LAE incurred but unpaid as of the balance sheet date. The liability is stated net of anticipated deductibles, salvage and subrogation, and gross of reinsurance ceded. The estimate of the unpaid losses and LAE liability is reviewed and updated on a regular, ongoing basis. Although management believes the liability for losses and LAE is reasonable, the ultimate liability may be more or less than the current estimate. The estimation of ultimate liability for unpaid losses and LAE is a complex, imprecise and inherently uncertain process, and therefore involves a considerable degree of judgment and expertise. The Company utilizes various actuarially-accepted reserving methodologies in deriving the continuum of expected outcomes and ultimately determining its estimated liability amount. These methodologies utilize various inputs, including but not limited to written and earned premiums, paid and reported losses and LAE, expected initial loss and LAE ratio, which is the ratio of incurred losses and LAE to earned premiums, and expected claim reporting and payout patterns (including company-specific and industry data). The liability for unpaid loss and LAE does not represent an exact measurement of liability, but is an estimate that is not directly or precisely quantifiable, particularly on a prospective basis, and is subject to a significant degree of variability over time. In addition, the establishment of the liability for unpaid losses and LAE makes no provision for the broadening of coverage by legislative action or judicial interpretation or for the extraordinary future emergence of new types of losses not sufficiently represented in the Company’s historical experience or which cannot yet be quantified. As a result, an integral component of estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is the use of informed subjective estimates and judgments about the ultimate exposure to unpaid losses and LAE. The effects of changes in the estimated liability are included in the results of operations in the period in which the estimates are revised. The Company allocates the applicable portion of the unpaid losses and LAE to amounts recoverable from reinsurers under reinsurance contracts and reports those amounts separately as assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Recognition of Premium Revenues	Recognition of Premium Revenues Insurance premiums are earned pro rata over the terms of the policies. Insurance policy fees are earned as of the effective date of the policy. Upon cancellation, any unearned premium is refunded to the insured. Insurance premiums written include gross policy fees of $6.1 million and $7.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Finance Charges	Finance Charges We receive premium installment fees for each direct bill payment from policyholders. Installment fee income is classified as finance charges on the consolidated statement of operations and is recognized as the fee is invoiced.
Agent Commissions	Agent Commissions We pay monthly commissions to agents based on written premium produced, but generally recognize the expense pro rata over the term of the policy. If the policy is cancelled prior to its expiration, the unearned portion of the agent commission is refundable to us. The unearned portion of commissions paid to agents is included in deferred policy acquisition costs. We annually pay a profit sharing commission to our independent agency force based upon the results of the business produced by each agent. We estimate and accrue this liability to commission expense in the year the business is produced. Commission expense is classified as operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We file a consolidated federal income tax return. Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax-credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that there is sufficient positive evidence, as allowed under ASC 740, Income Taxes, to support the recoverability of those deferred tax assets. The Company establishes a valuation allowance to the extent that there is insufficient evidence to support the recoverability of the deferred tax asset under ASC 740. In making such a determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If it is determined that the deferred tax assets would be realizable in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment would be made to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes. ASC 740 also addresses how a company reports uncertain tax positions on its financial statements under a "more-likely-than-not" recognition threshold (formerly known as FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes or FIN 48). This standard requires specific uncertain tax position disclosures in the annual financial statements, including a reconciliation of total unrecognized tax benefits, classification of income tax-related interest and penalties, identification of years that remain open to examination, and unrecognized tax benefits expected to significantly change within 12 months of the reporting period. There were no uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2021.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share The computation of earnings per share is based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the effect of common shares potentially issuable (in periods in which they have a dilutive effect), primarily from stock options. (See Notes 11 and 13.)
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU No. 2019-12"). The update is intended to simplify the current rules regarding the accounting for income taxes and addresses several technical topics including accounting for franchise taxes, allocating income taxes between a loss in continuing operations and in other categories such as discontinued operations, reporting income taxes for legal entities that are not subject to income taxes, and interim accounting for enacted changes in tax laws. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company early adopted the provisions of ASU No. 2019-12 on April 1, 2020, which did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform ("ASU 2020-04"). ASU 2020-04 provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease potential accounting impact associated with transitioning away from reference rates that are expected to be discontinued, such as the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). The amendments in this ASU apply only to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The amendments in ASU 2020-04 can be adopted as of March 12, 2020 and are effective through December 31, 2022. We do not currently have any contracts that have been changed to a new reference rate and do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations, financials position or liquidity., In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (Topic 326). ASU 2016-13 requires organizations to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including receivables and available-for-sale debt securities, by introducing an approach based on expected losses. The expected loss approach will require entities to incorporate considerations of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. As a smaller reporting company, ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years of the Company beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2016-13 requires a modified retrospective transition method and early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on our financial results and disclosures, but do not anticipate that any potential impact would be material.

Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2021

Hallmark Financial Services, Inc. (“Hallmark” and, together with subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is an insurance holding company engaged in the sale of property/casualty insurance products to businesses and individuals. Our business involves marketing, distributing, underwriting and servicing our insurance products, as well as providing other insurance related services.

We market, distribute, underwrite and service our property/casualty insurance products primarily through business units organized by products and distribution channel. Our business units are supported by our insurance company subsidiaries. Our Commercial Auto business unit offers primary and excess commercial vehicle insurance products and services; our E&S Casualty business unit offers primary and excess liability, excess public entity liability, E&S package and garage liability insurance products and services; our E&S Property business unit offers primary and excess commercial property insurance for both catastrophe and non-catastrophe exposures; our Professional Liability business unit offers healthcare and financial lines professional liability insurance products and services primarily for businesses, medical professionals, medical facilities and senior care facilities; and our Aerospace & Programs business unit offers general aviation and, until exited during 2020, satellite launch property/casualty insurance products and services, as well as certain specialty programs. Our Commercial Accounts business unit offers package and monoline property/casualty and occupational accident insurance products. Effective June 1, 2016 we ceased marketing new or renewal occupational accident policies. Our former Workers Compensation operating unit specialized in small and middle market workers compensation business. Effective July 1, 2015, we no longer market or retain any risk on new or renewal workers compensation policies. Our Specialty Personal Lines business unit offers non-standard personal automobile and renters insurance products and services. Our insurance company subsidiaries supporting these business units are American Hallmark Insurance Company of Texas (“AHIC”), Hallmark Insurance Company (“HIC”), Hallmark Specialty Insurance Company (“HSIC”), Hallmark County Mutual Insurance Company (“HCM”), Hallmark National Insurance Company (“HNIC”) and Texas Builders Insurance Company (“TBIC”).

These business units are segregated into three reportable industry segments for financial accounting purposes. The Specialty Commercial Segment includes our Commercial Auto business unit, E&S Casualty business unit, E&S Property business unit, Professional Liability business unit and Aerospace & Programs business unit. The Standard Commercial Segment consists of the Commercial Accounts business unit and the runoff from our former Workers Compensation operating unit. The Personal Segment consists solely of our Specialty Personal Lines business unit.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of Hallmark and its subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) which, as to our insurance company subsidiaries, differ from statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted for insurance companies by insurance regulatory authorities.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements

Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect our reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and our reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. Since future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment may be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.

The liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expenses and related amounts recoverable from reinsurers represents the most significant estimate in the accompanying financial statements, and any difference between such estimate and actual results could be material. Significant estimates in the accompanying financial statements also include the fair values of investments, deferred policy acquisition cost recoverability, deferred tax asset valuation, and fair value of goodwill and intangible assets.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair value estimates are made at a point in time, based on relevant market data as well as the best information available about the financial instruments. Fair value estimates for financial instruments for which no or limited observable market data is available are based on judgments regarding current economic conditions, credit and interest rate risk. These estimates involve significant uncertainties and judgments and cannot be determined with precision. As a result, such calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument. In addition, changes in the underlying assumptions used in the fair value measurement technique, including discount rate and estimates of future cash flows, could significantly affect these fair value estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: The carrying amounts reported in the consolidated balance sheets for these instruments approximate their fair values.

Restricted Cash: The carrying amount for restricted cash reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximates the fair value.

Subordinated debt securities: Our trust preferred securities are reported at a carrying value of $55.9 million and $55.9 million, and had a fair value of $29.4 million and $26.6. million, as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value.

Senior unsecured notes due 2029: Our senior unsecured notes payable due in 2029 had a carrying value of $49.3 million and $49.1 million and a fair value of $52.2 million and $54.3 million, as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Our senior unsecured notes payable would be included in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy if they were reported at fair value.

For reinsurance balances, premiums receivable, federal income tax recoverable/payable, other assets and other liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of such financial instruments.

Investments

Debt securities available-for-sale are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”), net of related tax effects. The Company reviews its impaired securities for possible other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") at each quarter end. A security has an impairment loss when its fair value is less than its cost or amortized cost at the balance sheet date. The Company considers the following factors in performing its review: (i) the amount by which the security’s fair value is less than its cost, (ii) length of time the security has been impaired, (iii) whether management has the intent to sell the security, (iv) if it is more likely than not that management will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, (v) whether the impairment is due to an issuer-specific event, credit issues or change in market interest rates, (vi) the security’s credit rating and any recent downgrades or (vii) stress testing of expected cash flows under different scenarios. If the Company cannot assert these conditions, an OTTI loss is recorded through the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the current period.

For all other impaired securities, the Company will assess whether the net present value of the cash flows expected to be collected from the security is less than its amortized cost basis. Such a shortfall in cash flows is referred to as a “credit loss.” For any such security, the Company separates the impairment loss into: (i) the credit loss and (ii) the non-credit loss, which is the amount related to all other factors such as interest rate changes, fluctuations in exchange rates and market conditions. The credit loss charge is recorded to the current period statements of operations and the non-credit loss is recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), within shareholders’ equity, on an after-tax basis. A security’s cost basis is permanently reduced by the amount of a credit loss. Income is accreted over the remaining life of a security based on the interest rate necessary to discount the expected future cash flows to the new basis.

Debt security premiums and discounts are amortized into earnings using the effective interest method. Maturities of debt securities and sales of equity securities are recorded in receivable for securities until the cash is settled. Purchases of debt and equity securities are recorded in payable for securities until the cash is settled.

Equity securities are reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are not required to be evaluated for other-than-temporary impairment.

Realized investment gains and losses are recognized in operations on the first in-first out method.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash represents amounts required to be set aside by a contractual agreement with a third-party insurer and amounts pledged for the benefit of various state insurance departments.

Premiums Receivable

Premiums receivable represent amounts due from policyholders or independent agents for premiums written and uncollected. These balances are reported net of an allowance for expected credit losses. The allowance is based upon the Company’s review of amounts outstanding, including delinquencies and write-offs. Credit risk is partially mitigated by the Company’s ability to cancel the policy if the policyholder does not pay for the premium.

Reinsurance

Reinsurance premiums, commissions, losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") on reinsured business are accounted for on a basis consistent with that used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. The amounts reported as reinsurance recoverables include amounts billed to reinsurers on losses and LAE paid as well as estimates of amounts expected to be recovered from reinsurers on insurance liabilities that have not yet been paid. Reinsurance recoverables on unpaid losses and LAE are estimated based upon assumptions consistent with those used in establishing the gross liabilities as they are applied to the underlying reinsured contracts. The Company records an allowance for uncollectible reinsurance recoverables based on an assessment of the reinsurer’s creditworthiness and collectability of the recorded amounts. Management believes an allowance for uncollectible recoverables from its reinsurers was not necessary for the periods presented. The Company receives ceding commissions in connection with certain ceded reinsurance. The ceding commissions are recorded as a reduction of policy acquisition costs. (See Note 7.)

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Policy acquisition costs (mainly direct commission, premium taxes, underwriting, marketing expenses and ceding commission) that are directly related to the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance contracts are deferred and recognized to operations over periods in which the related premiums are earned. The method followed in computing deferred policy acquisition costs limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value. In determining estimated realizable value, the computation gives effect to the premium to be earned, expected investment income, losses and LAE and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premiums are earned. If the computation results in an estimated net realizable value less than zero, a liability will be accrued for the premium deficiency. During 2021 and 2020, we deferred ($97.7) million and ($152.7) million of direct policy acquisition costs and amortized $107.1 million and $165.6 million of deferred direct policy acquisition costs, respectively. During 2021 and 2020, we deferred $73.5 million and $79.0 million of ceding commission acquisition costs and amortized ($71.9) million and ($86.7) million of deferred ceding commission acquisition costs, respectively. Therefore, the net amortization (deferrals) of policy acquisition costs were $11.0 million and $5.2 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, net

We account for our goodwill and intangible assets according to ASC 350, “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other” (ASC 350). Under ASC 350, intangible assets with a finite life are amortized over the estimated useful life of the asset. Goodwill and intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not amortized. Goodwill and intangible assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. For goodwill, we may perform a qualitative test to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The quantitative impairment test requires an impairment loss be measured as the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value (not to exceed the total goodwill allocated to that reporting unit). We have elected to perform our goodwill impairment test on the first day of the fourth quarter, October 1, of each year. In connection with our normal process for evaluating impairment triggering events, during the first quarter of 2020 we determined that a significant decline in market capitalization below the Company’s stockholders’ equity indicated the impairment of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets included on the balance sheet. As a result, the Company took a $44.7 million charge to goodwill and a $1.3 million charge to indefinite-lived intangible assets during the first quarter of 2020. Consequently, as of December 31, 2021 there was no goodwill or indefinite lived intangible assets reported on our consolidated balance sheet.

Leases

We have several leases, primarily for office facilities and computer equipment, which expire in various years through 2033. Some of these leases include rent escalation provisions throughout the term of the lease. We expense the average annual cost of the lease with the difference to the actual rent invoices recorded as a right of use asset and a lease obligation. Right of use assets and lease obligations are classified in other assets and in accounts payable and other accrued expenses, respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets. (see Note 21)

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment (including leasehold improvements), aggregating $38.2 million and $36.3 million, at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which is included in other assets, is recorded at cost and is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets (three to ten years) or the life of the lease, whichever is shorter. Property and equipment includes $3.8 million and $2.9 million of leasehold incentives at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, from the adoption of ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” effective January 1, 2019. Depreciation expense for 2021 and 2020 was $2.9 million and $3.3 million, respectively. Accumulated depreciation was $30.0 million and $27.1 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Under ASC 360, “Impairment or disposal of long-lived assets,” property and equipment is tested for impairment annually. As of December 31, 2021, no impairment was considered necessary.

Variable Interest Entities

On June 21, 2005, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust I (“Trust I”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $30.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust I used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $30.9 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust I, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust I.

On August 23, 2007, we formed Hallmark Statutory Trust II (“Trust II”), an unconsolidated trust subsidiary, for the sole purpose of issuing $25.0 million in trust preferred securities. Trust II used the proceeds from the sale of these securities and our initial capital contribution to purchase $25.8 million of subordinated debt securities from Hallmark. The debt securities are the sole assets of Trust II, and the payments under the debt securities are the sole revenues of Trust II.

We evaluate on an ongoing basis our investments in Trust I and Trust II (collectively, the “Trusts”) and we do not have variable interests in the Trusts. Therefore, the Trusts are not consolidated in our consolidated financial statements.

Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses

The liability for unpaid losses and LAE in the Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the Company’s estimate of the amount it expects to pay for the ultimate cost of all losses and LAE incurred that remain unpaid at the balance sheet date. The liability is recorded on an undiscounted basis, except for the liability for unpaid losses and LAE assumed related to acquired companies which are initially recorded at fair value. The process of estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is a complex process that requires a high degree of judgment.

The liability for unpaid losses and LAE represents the accumulation of individual case estimates for reported losses and LAE, and actuarially determined estimates for incurred but not reported losses and LAE. The liability for unpaid losses and LAE is intended to include the ultimate net cost of all losses and LAE incurred but unpaid as of the balance sheet date. The liability is stated net of anticipated deductibles, salvage and subrogation, and gross of reinsurance ceded. The estimate of the unpaid losses and LAE liability is reviewed and updated on a regular, ongoing basis. Although management believes the liability for losses and LAE is reasonable, the ultimate liability may be more or less than the current estimate.

The estimation of ultimate liability for unpaid losses and LAE is a complex, imprecise and inherently uncertain process, and therefore involves a considerable degree of judgment and expertise. The Company utilizes various actuarially-accepted reserving methodologies in deriving the continuum of expected outcomes and ultimately determining its estimated liability amount. These methodologies utilize various inputs, including but not limited to written and earned premiums, paid and reported losses and LAE, expected initial loss and LAE ratio, which is the ratio of incurred losses and LAE to earned premiums, and expected claim reporting and payout patterns (including company-specific and industry data). The liability for unpaid loss and LAE does not represent an exact measurement of liability, but is an estimate that is not directly or precisely quantifiable, particularly on a prospective basis, and is subject to a significant degree of variability over time. In addition, the establishment of the liability for unpaid losses and LAE makes no provision for the broadening of coverage by legislative action or judicial interpretation or for the extraordinary future emergence of new types of losses not sufficiently represented in the Company’s historical experience or which cannot yet be quantified. As a result, an integral component of estimating the liability for unpaid losses and LAE is the use of informed subjective estimates and judgments about the ultimate exposure to unpaid losses and LAE. The effects of changes in the estimated liability are included in the results of operations in the period in which the estimates are revised.

The Company allocates the applicable portion of the unpaid losses and LAE to amounts recoverable from reinsurers under reinsurance contracts and reports those amounts separately as assets on the consolidated balance sheets.

Recognition of Premium Revenues

Insurance premiums are earned pro rata over the terms of the policies. Insurance policy fees are earned as of the effective date of the policy. Upon cancellation, any unearned premium is refunded to the insured. Insurance premiums written include gross policy fees of $6.1 million and $7.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Finance Charges

We receive premium installment fees for each direct bill payment from policyholders. Installment fee income is classified as finance charges on the consolidated statement of operations and is recognized as the fee is invoiced.

Agent Commissions

We pay monthly commissions to agents based on written premium produced, but generally recognize the expense pro rata over the term of the policy. If the policy is cancelled prior to its expiration, the unearned portion of the agent commission is refundable to us. The unearned portion of commissions paid to agents is included in deferred policy acquisition costs. We annually pay a profit sharing commission to our independent agency force based upon the results of the business produced by each agent. We estimate and accrue this liability to commission expense in the year the business is produced.

Commission expense is classified as operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.

Income Taxes

We file a consolidated federal income tax return. Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax-credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that there is sufficient positive evidence, as allowed under ASC 740, Income Taxes, to support the recoverability of those deferred tax assets. The Company establishes a valuation allowance to the extent that there is insufficient evidence to support the recoverability of the deferred tax asset under ASC 740. In making such a determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If it is determined that the deferred tax assets would be realizable in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment would be made to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

ASC 740 also addresses how a company reports uncertain tax positions on its financial statements under a "more-likely-than-not" recognition threshold (formerly known as FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes or FIN 48). This standard requires specific uncertain tax position disclosures in the annual financial statements, including a reconciliation of total unrecognized tax benefits, classification of income tax-related interest and penalties, identification of years that remain open to examination, and unrecognized tax benefits expected to significantly change within 12 months of the reporting period. There were no uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2021.

Earnings Per Share

The computation of earnings per share is based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus the effect of common shares potentially issuable (in periods in which they have a dilutive effect), primarily from stock options. (See Notes 11 and 13.)

Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU No. 2019-12"). The update is intended to simplify the current rules regarding the accounting for income taxes and addresses several technical topics including accounting for franchise taxes, allocating income taxes between a loss in continuing operations and in other categories such as discontinued operations, reporting income taxes for legal entities that are not subject to income taxes, and interim accounting for enacted changes in tax laws. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020; however, early adoption is permitted. The Company early adopted the provisions of ASU No. 2019-12 on April 1, 2020, which did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform ("ASU 2020-04"). ASU 2020-04 provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease potential accounting impact associated with transitioning away from reference rates that are expected to be discontinued, such as the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). The amendments in this ASU apply only to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued. The amendments in ASU 2020-04 can be adopted as of March 12, 2020 and are effective through December 31, 2022. We do not currently have any contracts that have been changed to a new reference rate and do not expect the adoption of this guidance to have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations, financials position or liquidity.,

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments” (Topic 326). ASU 2016-13 requires organizations to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including receivables and available-for-sale debt securities, by introducing an approach based on expected losses. The expected loss approach will require entities to incorporate considerations of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. As a smaller reporting company, ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years of the Company beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2016-13 requires a modified retrospective transition method and early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this standard will have on our financial results and disclosures, but do not anticipate that any potential impact would be material.