Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The following significant accounting and reporting policies of Astoria Financial Corporation and subsidiaries conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and are used in preparing and presenting these consolidated financial statements. (a) Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astoria Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Astoria Bank and its subsidiaries, referred to as Astoria Bank, and AF Insurance Agency, Inc. AF Insurance Agency, Inc. is a licensed life insurance agency which, through contractual agreements with various third parties, makes insurance products available primarily to the customers of Astoria Bank. As used in this annual report, "Astoria," “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Astoria Financial Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues, expenses and other comprehensive income/loss during the reporting periods. The estimate of our allowance for loan losses, the valuation of mortgage servicing rights, or MSR, judgments regarding goodwill and securities impairment and the estimates related to our income taxes and pension plans and other postretirement benefits are particularly critical because they are important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations, involve a higher degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions and estimates about highly uncertain matters. Actual results may differ from our assumptions, estimates and judgments. When necessary, certain reclassifications are made to prior-year amounts to conform to the current-year presentation. The presentation of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, or FHLB-NY, stock in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are presented on a gross basis to conform to the presentation for the year ended December 31, 2016. (b) Cash and Cash Equivalents For the purpose of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and securities purchased under agreements to resell, or reverse repo agreements, with original maturities of three months or less. These agreements represent short-term loans and are reflected as an asset in the consolidated statements of financial condition. There were no reverse repo agreements outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Astoria Bank is required by the Federal Reserve System to maintain cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits. The reserve requirement totaled $52.0 million at December 31, 2016 and $45.8 million at December 31, 2015. (c) Securities Securities are classified as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of acquisition. Our securities available-for-sale portfolio is carried at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) in stockholders’ equity. Debt securities which we have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost. Premiums and discounts are recognized as adjustments to interest income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for prepayments. Gains and losses on the sale of all securities are determined using the specific identification method and are reflected in earnings when realized. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we did not maintain a trading securities portfolio. We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if a decline in the fair value of any security below its cost basis is other-than-temporary. Our evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment, or OTTI, considers the duration and severity of the impairment, our assessments of the reason for the decline in value, the likelihood of a near-term recovery and our intent and ability to hold the securities. If such decline is deemed other-than-temporary, the security is written down to a new cost basis and the resulting loss is charged to earnings as a component of non-interest income, except for the amount of the total OTTI for a debt security that does not represent credit losses which is recognized in other comprehensive income/loss, net of applicable taxes. (d) Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock As a member of the FHLB-NY, we are required to acquire and hold shares of the FHLB-NY Class B stock. Our holding requirement varies based on our activities, primarily our outstanding borrowings, with the FHLB-NY. Our investment in FHLB-NY stock is carried at cost. We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of our FHLB-NY stock to determine if any impairment exists. (e) Loans Held-for-Sale Loans held-for-sale, net, includes 15 and 30 year fixed rate one-to-four family, or residential, mortgage loans originated for sale that conform to government-sponsored enterprise, or GSE, guidelines (conforming loans), as well as certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans. Generally, we originate 15 and 30 year conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans for sale to various GSEs or other investors on a servicing released or retained basis. The sale of such loans is generally arranged through a master commitment on a mandatory delivery or best efforts basis. Loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Premiums and discounts and origination fees and costs on loans held-for-sale are deferred and recognized as a component of the gain or loss on sale. Gains and losses on sales of loans held-for-sale are included in mortgage banking income, net, recognized on settlement dates and are determined by the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the loans. These transactions are accounted for as sales based on our satisfaction of the criteria for such accounting which provide that, as transferor, we have surrendered control over the loans. Upon our decision to sell certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans held in portfolio, we transfer them to held-for-sale at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs. Reductions in carrying values are reflected as a write-down of the recorded investment in the loans resulting in a new cost basis, with credit-related losses charged to the allowance for loan losses. Such loans are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date. Lower of cost or market write-downs, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Increases in the fair value of non-performing loans held-for-sale are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowances. Lower of cost or market write-downs and recoveries are included in other non-interest income along with gains and losses recognized on sales of such loans. Our delinquent and non-performing loans are sold without recourse, except as discussed in Note 10, and we do not provide financing. (f) Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses Loans receivable are carried at the unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred loan origination costs and fees, which are recognized as yield adjustments using the interest method. We amortize these amounts over the contractual life of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments. Our loans receivable represent our financing receivables. We discontinue accruing interest on loans when they become 90 days past due as to their payment due date and at the time a loan is deemed a troubled debt restructuring, or TDR. We may also discontinue accruing interest on certain other loans earlier because of deterioration in financial or other conditions of the borrower. In addition, we reverse all previously accrued and uncollected interest through a charge to interest income. While loans are in non-accrual status, interest due is monitored and, presuming we deem the remaining recorded investment in the loan to be fully collectible, income is recognized only to the extent cash is received until a return to accrual status is warranted. In some circumstances, mortgage loans will reach their maturity date with the borrower having an intent to refinance. If such loans become 30 days past maturity, we continue to consider such loans as current to the extent such borrowers continue to make monthly payments to us consistent with the original terms of the loan, and where we do not have a reason to believe that any loss will be incurred on the loan, in which case we continue to accrue interest. In other cases, we may defer recognition of income until the principal balance has been recovered. Should a loan reach 60 days past maturity we then classify such loan as past due. We may agree, in certain instances, to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan. In cases where such modifications represent a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty, the modification is considered a TDR. Modifications as a result of a TDR may include, but are not limited to, interest rate modifications, payment deferrals, restructuring of payments to interest-only from amortizing and/or extensions of maturity dates. Modifications which result in insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls are generally not classified as a TDR. Residential mortgage loans discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing are also reported as loans modified in a TDR as relief granted by a court is also viewed as a concession to the borrower in the loan agreement. Loans modified in a TDR are individually classified as impaired loans and are initially placed on non-accrual status regardless of their delinquency status. Loans modified in a TDR remain in non-accrual status until we determine that future collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured. Where we have agreed to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan, we require the borrower to demonstrate performance according to the restructured terms, generally for a period of at least six months, prior to returning the loan to accrual status. Loans modified in a TDR which have been returned to accrual status are excluded from non-performing loans but remain classified as impaired. We establish and maintain an allowance for loan losses based on our evaluation of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio. Loan charge-offs in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible reduce the allowance for loan losses. Recoveries of amounts previously charged-off increase the allowance for loan losses in the period they are received. The allowance is adjusted to an appropriate level through provisions for loan losses charged or credited to operations to increase or decrease the allowance based on a comprehensive analysis of our loan portfolio. We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis. The allowance is comprised of both valuation allowances related to individual loans and general valuation allowances, although the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. In estimating specific allocations of the allowance, we review loans deemed to be impaired and measure impairment losses based on either the fair value of the collateral, the observable market price of the loan or the present value of expected future cash flows. A loan is considered impaired when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include the financial condition of the borrower, payment history, delinquency status, collateral value, our lien position and the probability of collecting principal and interest payments when due. When an impairment analysis indicates the need for a specific allocation of the allowance on an individual loan, such allocation would be established sufficient to cover probable incurred losses at the evaluation date based on the facts and circumstances of the loan. When available information confirms that specific loans, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses. For loans individually classified as impaired, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of either the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated selling costs, for collateral dependent loans, the observable market price of the loan or the present value of the discounted cash flows of a modified loan, is generally charged-off. Estimated losses for loans that are not individually deemed to be impaired are determined on a loan pool basis using our historical loss experience and various other qualitative factors and comprise our general valuation allowances. General valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent risks associated with our lending activities which, unlike individual valuation allowances, have not been allocated to particular loans. The determination of the adequacy of the general valuation allowances takes into consideration a variety of factors. We segment our residential mortgage loan portfolio by interest-only and amortizing loans, full documentation and reduced documentation loans, and origination time periods, and analyze our historical loss experience and delinquency levels and trends of these segments. We analyze multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans by portfolio using predictive modeling techniques for loans originated after 2010 and by geographic location for loans originated prior to 2011. We analyze our consumer and other loan portfolio by home equity lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans and other consumer loans and perform similar historical loss analyses. In our analysis of non-performing loans, we consider our aggregate historical loss experience with respect to the ultimate disposition of the underlying collateral along with the migration of delinquent loans based on the portfolio segments noted above. These analyses and the resulting loss rates are used as an integral part of our judgment in developing estimated loss percentages to apply to the loan portfolio segments. We monitor credit risk on interest-only hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, loans that were underwritten at the initial note rate, which may have been a discounted rate, in the same manner that we monitor credit risk on all interest-only hybrid ARM loans. We monitor interest rate reset dates of our loan portfolio, in the aggregate, and the current interest rate environment and consider the impact, if any, on borrowers’ ability to continue to make timely principal and interest payments in determining our allowance for loan losses. We also consider the size, composition, risk profile and delinquency levels of our loan portfolio, as well as our credit administration and asset management procedures. We monitor property value trends in our market areas by reference to various industry and market reports, economic releases and surveys, and our general and specific knowledge of the real estate markets in which we lend, in order to determine what impact, if any, such trends may have on the level of our general valuation allowances. In addition, we evaluate and consider the impact that current and anticipated economic and market conditions may have on the loan portfolio and known and inherent risks in the portfolio. We update our analyses quarterly and refine our evaluations as experience provides clearer guidance, our product offerings change and as economic conditions evolve. Our evaluation of loss experience factors considers trends in such factors over the prior three years, as well as an estimate of the average amount of time from an event signaling the potential inability of a borrower to continue to pay as agreed to the point at which a loss is confirmed, for substantially all of the loan portfolio, with the exception of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans originated after 2010, for which our evaluation includes predictive modeling techniques. We also analyze our historical loss experience over 12, 15, 18 and 24 month periods. The loss history used in calculating our quantitative allowance coverage percentages varies based on loan type. Also, for a particular loan type, we may not have sufficient loss history to develop a reasonable estimate of loss and in these instances we may consider our loss experience for other, similar loan types and may evaluate those losses over a longer period than two years. Additionally, multi-family and commercial real estate loss experience may be adjusted based on the composition of the losses (loan sales, short sales and partial charge-offs). Modeling techniques utilize data inputs for each loan in the portfolio, including credit facility terms and performance to date, property details and borrower financial performance data. The model also incorporates real estate market data from an established real estate market database company to forecast future performance of the properties, and includes a loan loss predictive model based on studies of defaulted commercial real estate loans. The model then generates a probability of default, loss given default and ultimately an estimated loss for each loan quarterly over the remaining life of the loan. The appropriate timeframe from which to assign an estimated loss percentage to the pool of loans is assessed by management. We update our historical loss analyses, as well as our predictive model, quarterly and evaluate the need to modify our quantitative allowances as a result of our updated charge-off and loss analyses. We also consider qualitative factors with the purpose of assessing the adequacy of the overall allowance for loan losses as well as the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category. The qualitative factors we consider generally include, but are not limited to, changes in (1) lending policies and procedures, (2) economic and business conditions and developments that affect collectability of our loan portfolio, (3) the nature and volume of our loan portfolio and in the terms of loans, (4) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other staff, (5) the volume and severity of past due, non-accrual and adversely classified loans, (6) the quality of the loan review system, (7) the value of underlying collateral, (8) the existence or effect of any credit concentrations (9) external factors such as competition and legal or regulatory requirements and (10) factors arising outside the scope of the aforementioned nine factors may also be considered as appropriate. In addition to the ten qualitative factors noted, we also review certain analytical information such as our coverage ratios and peer analysis. Allowance adequacy calculations are adjusted quarterly, based on the results of our quantitative and qualitative analyses, to reflect our current estimates of the amount of probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio. Allocations of the allowance to each loan category are adjusted quarterly to reflect probable inherent losses using the same quantitative and qualitative analyses used in connection with the overall allowance adequacy calculations. The portion of the allowance allocated to each loan category does not represent the total available to absorb losses which may occur within the loan category, since the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. The balance of our allowance for loan losses represents management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Actual results could differ from our estimates as a result of changes in economic or market conditions. Changes in estimates could result in a material change in the allowance for loan losses. While we believe that the allowance for loan losses has been established and maintained at levels that reflect the risks inherent in our loan portfolio, future adjustments may be necessary if portfolio performance or economic or market conditions differ substantially from the conditions that existed at the time of the initial determinations. (g) Mortgage Servicing Rights We recognize as separate assets the rights to service mortgage loans. The right to service loans for others is generally obtained through the sale of residential mortgage loans with servicing retained. The initial asset recognized for originated MSR is measured at fair value. The fair value of MSR is estimated by reference to current market values of similar loans sold servicing released. MSR are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. We apply the amortization method for measurements of our MSR. MSR are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date. MSR impairment, if any, is recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Increases in the fair value of impaired MSR are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowance. Fees earned for servicing loans are reported as income, as a component of mortgage banking income, net, in the consolidated statements of income, when the related mortgage loan payments are collected. We assess impairment of our MSR based on the estimated fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis with any impairment recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum. We stratify our MSR by underlying loan type (primarily fixed and adjustable) and interest rate. Individual allowances for each stratum are then adjusted in subsequent periods to reflect changes in the measurement of impairment. We outsource the servicing of our residential mortgage loan portfolio, including our portfolio of mortgage loans serviced for other investors, to an unrelated third party under a sub-servicing agreement. Fees paid under the sub-servicing agreement are reported as a component of occupancy, equipment and systems expense in the consolidated statements of income. (h) Premises and Equipment Land is carried at cost. Buildings and improvements, leasehold improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Premises and equipment at cost totaled $308.4 million with accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $207.4 million at December 31, 2016, and totaled $305.0 million with accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $195.2 million at December 31, 2015. Buildings and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the term of the related leases or the estimated useful lives of the improved property. (i) Goodwill Goodwill is presumed to have an indefinite useful life and is tested, at least annually, for impairment at the reporting unit level. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, further evaluation is not necessary. However, if the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, further evaluation is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying amount to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required. Impairment exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. For purposes of our goodwill impairment testing, we have identified a single reporting unit. We consider the quoted market price of our common stock on our impairment testing date as an initial indicator of estimating the fair value of our reporting unit. We also consider our average stock price, both before and after our impairment test date, as well as market-based control premiums in determining the estimated fair value of our reporting unit. In addition to our internal goodwill impairment analysis, we periodically obtain a goodwill impairment analysis from an independent third party valuation firm. The independent third party utilizes multiple valuation approaches including comparable transactions, control premium, public market peers and discounted cash flow. Management reviews the assumptions and inputs used in the third party analysis for reasonableness. At December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of our goodwill totaled $185.2 million. As of September 30, 2016, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test internally and obtained an independent third party analysis and concluded there was no goodwill impairment. We would test our goodwill for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount. No events have occurred and no circumstances have changed since our annual impairment test date that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount. The identification of additional reporting units, the use of other valuation techniques or changes to the input assumptions used in our analysis or the analysis by our third party valuation firm could result in materially different evaluations of impairment. (j) Bank Owned Life Insurance Bank owned life insurance, or BOLI, is carried at the amount that could be realized under our life insurance contract as of the date of the statement of financial condition and is classified as a non-interest-earning asset. Increases in the carrying value are recorded as non-interest income and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value. The carrying value consisted of a cash surrender value of $410.2 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $30.9 million at December 31, 2016 and a cash surrender value of $409.4 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $30.3 million at December 31, 2015. Repayment of the claims stabilization reserve (funds transferred from the cash surrender value to provide for future death benefit payments) is guaranteed by the insurance carrier provided that certain conditions are met at the date of a contract surrender. We satisfied these conditions at December 31, 2016 and 2015. (k) Real Estate Owned Real estate owned, or REO, represents real estate acquired through foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure and is initially recorded at estimated fair value less estimated selling costs. Thereafter, we maintain a valuation allowance, representing decreases in the properties’ estimated fair value, through charges to earnings. Such charges are included in other non-interest expense along with any additional property maintenance and protection expenses incurred in owning the property. REO totaled $15.1 million, which is net of a valuation allowance of $1.2 million, at December 31, 2016 and $19.8 million, which is net of a valuation allowance of $1.3 million, at December 31, 2015. (l) Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase We enter into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase, or repo agreements, with approved securities dealers and banks, and the FHLB-NY. Such agreements are accounted for as secured financing transactions since we maintain effective control over the transferred securities and the transfer meets the other criteria for such accounting. Obligations under repo agreements are reflected as a liability in our consolidated statements of financial condition. The securities underlying the agreements are delivered to a custodial account for the benefit of the dealer or bank with whom each transaction is executed. The dealers or banks, who may sell, loan or otherwise dispose of such securities to other parties in the normal course of their operations, agree to resell us the same securities at the maturities of the agreements. We retain the right of substitution of collateral throughout the terms of the agreements. The securities underlying the agreements are classified as encumbered securities in our consolidated statements of financial condition. (m) Derivative Financial Instruments As part of our interest rate risk management, we may utilize, from time-to-time, derivative financial instruments which are recorded as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivatives are reported in our results of operations or other comprehensive income/loss depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. We may enter into derivative financial instruments with no hedging designation. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized currently in our results of operations, generally in other non-interest expense. We do not use derivatives for trading purposes. (n) Income Taxes We use the asset and liability method to provide for income taxes on all transactions recorded in the consolidated financial statements. Income tax expense consists of income taxes that are currently payable and deferred 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 basis of existing assets and liabilities and net operating loss carryforwards. We assess our deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if realization of a deferred tax asset is not considered to be more likely than not. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date. Certain tax benefits attributable to stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, including the tax benefit related to dividends paid on unvested restricted stock awards, are credited to additional paid-in-capital. We maintain a reserve related to certain tax positions and strategies that management believes contain an element of uncertainty and evaluate each of our tax positions and strategies to determine whether the reserve continues to be appropriate. Accruals of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized in income tax expense. (o) Earnings Per Common Share Basic earnings per common share, or EPS, is computed pursuant to the two-class method by dividing net income available to common shareholders less dividends paid on participating securities (unvested shares of restricted common stock) and any undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the year. The weighted average common shares outstanding includes the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding less the weighted average number of unvested shares of restricted common stock. Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but includes the effect of dilutive potential common shares during the period, such as unexercised stock options and unvested restricted stock units, calculated using the treasury stock method. However, unvested restricted stock units are excluded from the denominator for both the basic and diluted EPS computations until the performance conditions are satisfied. (p) Employee Benefits Astoria Bank has a qualified, non-contributory defined benefit pension plan, or the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, covering employees meeting specified eligibility criteria. Astoria Bank’s policy is to fund pension costs in accordance with the minimum funding requirement. In addition, Astoria Bank has non-qualified and unfunded supplemental retirement plans covering certain officers and directors including the Astoria Bank Excess Benefit Plan and the Astoria Bank Supplemental Benefit Plan, or the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans, and the Astoria Bank Directors’ Retirement Plan, or the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan. Effective April 30, 2012, the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans and the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan were amended to, among other things, change the manner in which benefits were computed for service through April 30, 2012 and to suspend accrual of additional benefits for all of the aforementioned plans effective April 30, 2012. These amendments resulted in a significant reduction in net periodic cost for our defined benefit pension plans for periods subsequent to April 30, 2012. We also sponsor a health care plan that provides for postretirement medical and dental coverage to select individuals. The costs of postretirement benefits are accrued during an employee’s active working career. We recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan, which is measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation at the measurement date, in other assets or other liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition. Changes in the funded status are recognized through other comprehensive income/loss in the period in which the changes occur. (q) Stock Incentive Plans We recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of awards. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period which is the earlier of the awards’ stated vesting date or the employees’ or non-employee directors’ retirement eligibility date for awards that have accelerated vesting provisions upon retirement. For awards which have performance-based conditions, recognition of stock-based compensation expense begins when the achievement of the performance conditions is probable. The fair value of restricted common stock and restricted stock unit awards are based on the closing market value of our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the grant date, reduced by the present value of the expected dividend stream during the vesting period for restricted stock unit awards using a risk-free interest rate. (r) Segment Reporting As a community-oriented financial institution, substantially all of our operations involve the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers. We make operating decisions and assess performance based on an ongoing review of these community banking operations, which constitute our only operating segment for financial reporting purposes. (s) Impact of Recent Accounting Standards and Interpretations In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” to replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic and eliminate industry-specific guidance, providing a unified model to determine when and how revenue is recognized. We will adopt this guidance in the first quarter of 2018 using the modified retrospective method with a cumulative-effect adjustment to opening retained earnings, as appropriate. Our revenue is comprised of net interest income on financial assets and financial liabilities and non-interest income. The scope of ASU 2014-09 explicitly excludes net interest income as well as other revenues associated with financial assets and liabilities, including loans, leases, securities and derivatives. Accordingly, the majority of our revenues will not be affected. Other recurring revenue streams are within the scope of ASU 2014-09, including revenues associated with certain products and services offered by our banking and insurance businesses. Our preliminary analysis suggests that adoption of ASU 2014-09 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10) - Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in ASU 2016-01 require all equity investments to be measured at fair value, with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those resulting in consolidation of the investee). The amendments in ASU 2016-01 also require an entity to present separately in “other comprehensive income” the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. In addition, the amendments in ASU 2016-01 eliminate the requirement to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet for public business entities. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of ASU 2016-01 is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated statements of condition or results of operations. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” which requires lessees to recognize most leases, including operating leases, on-balance sheet via a right-to-use asset that will be depreciated over the term of the lease and a lease liability measured on a discounted basis. This will require many entities including Astoria Bank to include more existing leases on-balance sheet. We have identified several areas that are within the scope of ASU 2016-02, including Astoria Bank's contracts with respect to leased real estate and office equipment. We continue to evaluate the impact of ASU 2016-02, including determining whether other contracts exist that are deemed to be in scope. As such, no conclusions have yet been reached regarding the potential impact of adoption on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. ASU 2016-02 is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim period within those fiscal years. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) - Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” which applies to all entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. The amendments involve several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are part of FASB's Simplification Initiative, the stated objective of which is to identify, evaluate, and improve areas of GAAP for which cost and complexity can be reduced while maintaining or improving the usefulness of the information provided to users of financial statements. We adopted ASU 2016-09 prospectively, effective for the fourth quarter of 2016. Upon adoption, we recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings of $67.0 million. In addition, ASU 2016-09 requires that excess tax benefits and shortfalls be recorded as income tax benefit or expense in the income statement, rather than equity. This resulted in a $475,000 benefit to income tax expense in the fourth quarter of 2016. Relative to forfeitures, ASU 2016-09 allows an entity’s accounting policy election to either continue to estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest, as under current guidance, or account for forfeitures when they occur. We have elected to continue our existing practice of estimating the number of awards that are expected to vest. The income tax effects of ASU 2016-09 on the statement of cash flows are now classified as cash flows from operating activities, rather than cash flows from financing activities. We elected to apply this cash flow classification guidance prospectively and, therefore, prior periods have not been adjusted. ASU 2016-09 also requires the presentation of certain employee withholding taxes as a financing activity on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows; this is consistent with the manner in which we have presented such employee withholding taxes in the past. Accordingly, no reclassification for prior periods is required. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which require a financial asset measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is to be based on information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. This measurement is to take place at the time an asset is first added to the balance sheet and periodically thereafter. This differs significantly from the “incurred loss” methodology for recognizing credit losses required under current GAAP, which delays recognition until it is probable a loss has been incurred. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2016-13 on our accounting, but we expect to recognize a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to our allowance for loan losses as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the new standard becomes effective. While we have begun the process of compiling historical loss data by loan category, we cannot yet determine the magnitude of any such one-time cumulative adjustment or of the overall impact of the new standard on our financial condition or results of operations. Further, to date, no guidance has been issued by either our or Astoria Bank’s primary regulator with respect to how the impact of ASU 2016-13 is to be treated for regulatory capital purposes.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The following significant accounting and reporting policies of Astoria Financial Corporation and subsidiaries conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and are used in preparing and presenting these consolidated financial statements.

(a) Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astoria Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Astoria Bank and its subsidiaries, referred to as Astoria Bank, and AF Insurance Agency, Inc. AF Insurance Agency, Inc. is a licensed life insurance agency which, through contractual agreements with various third parties, makes insurance products available primarily to the customers of Astoria Bank. As used in this annual report, "Astoria," “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Astoria Financial Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues, expenses and other comprehensive income/loss during the reporting periods. The estimate of our allowance for loan losses, the valuation of mortgage servicing rights, or MSR, judgments regarding goodwill and securities impairment and the estimates related to our income taxes and pension plans and other postretirement benefits are particularly critical because they are important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations, involve a higher degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions and estimates about highly uncertain matters. Actual results may differ from our assumptions, estimates and judgments. When necessary, certain reclassifications are made to prior-year amounts to conform to the current-year presentation. The presentation of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, or FHLB-NY, stock in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are presented on a gross basis to conform to the presentation for the year ended December 31, 2016.

(b) Cash and Cash Equivalents

For the purpose of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and securities purchased under agreements to resell, or reverse repo agreements, with original maturities of three months or less. These agreements represent short-term loans and are reflected as an asset in the consolidated statements of financial condition. There were no reverse repo agreements outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

Astoria Bank is required by the Federal Reserve System to maintain cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits. The reserve requirement totaled $52.0 million at December 31, 2016 and $45.8 million at December 31, 2015.

Securities are classified as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of acquisition. Our securities available-for-sale portfolio is carried at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) in stockholders’ equity. Debt securities which we have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost. Premiums and discounts are recognized as adjustments to interest income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for prepayments. Gains and losses on the sale of all securities are determined using the specific identification method and are reflected in earnings when realized. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we did not maintain a trading securities portfolio. We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if a decline in the fair value of any security below its cost basis is other-than-temporary. Our evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment, or OTTI, considers the duration and severity of the impairment, our assessments of the reason for the decline in value, the likelihood of a near-term recovery and our intent and ability to hold the securities. If such decline is deemed other-than-temporary, the security is written down to a new cost basis and the resulting loss is charged to earnings as a component of non-interest income, except for the amount of the total OTTI for a debt security that does not represent credit losses which is recognized in other comprehensive income/loss, net of applicable taxes.

(d) Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock

As a member of the FHLB-NY, we are required to acquire and hold shares of the FHLB-NY Class B stock. Our holding requirement varies based on our activities, primarily our outstanding borrowings, with the FHLB-NY. Our investment in FHLB-NY stock is carried at cost. We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of our FHLB-NY stock to determine if any impairment exists.

(e) Loans Held-for-Sale

Loans held-for-sale, net, includes 15 and 30 year fixed rate one-to-four family, or residential, mortgage loans originated for sale that conform to government-sponsored enterprise, or GSE, guidelines (conforming loans), as well as certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans.

Generally, we originate 15 and 30 year conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans for sale to various GSEs or other investors on a servicing released or retained basis. The sale of such loans is generally arranged through a master commitment on a mandatory delivery or best efforts basis. Loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Premiums and discounts and origination fees and costs on loans held-for-sale are deferred and recognized as a component of the gain or loss on sale. Gains and losses on sales of loans held-for-sale are included in mortgage banking income, net, recognized on settlement dates and are determined by the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the loans. These transactions are accounted for as sales based on our satisfaction of the criteria for such accounting which provide that, as transferor, we have surrendered control over the loans.

Upon our decision to sell certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans held in portfolio, we transfer them to held-for-sale at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs. Reductions in carrying values are reflected as a write-down of the recorded investment in the loans resulting in a new cost basis, with credit-related losses charged to the allowance for loan losses. Such loans are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date. Lower of cost or market write-downs, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Increases in the fair value of non-performing loans held-for-sale are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowances. Lower of cost or market write-downs and recoveries are included in other non-interest income along with gains and losses recognized on sales of such loans. Our delinquent and non-performing loans are sold without recourse, except as discussed in Note 10, and we do not provide financing.

(f) Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses

Loans receivable are carried at the unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred loan origination costs and fees, which are recognized as yield adjustments using the interest method. We amortize these amounts over the contractual life of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments. Our loans receivable represent our financing receivables.

We discontinue accruing interest on loans when they become 90 days past due as to their payment due date and at the time a loan is deemed a troubled debt restructuring, or TDR. We may also discontinue accruing interest on certain other loans earlier because of deterioration in financial or other conditions of the borrower. In addition, we reverse all previously accrued and uncollected interest through a charge to interest income. While loans are in non-accrual status, interest due is monitored and, presuming we deem the remaining recorded investment in the loan to be fully collectible, income is recognized only to the extent cash is received until a return to accrual status is warranted. In some circumstances, mortgage loans will reach their maturity date with the borrower having an intent to refinance. If such loans become 30 days past maturity, we continue to consider such loans as current to the extent such borrowers continue to make monthly payments to us consistent with the original terms of the loan, and where we do not have a reason to believe that any loss will be incurred on the loan, in which case we continue to accrue interest. In other cases, we may defer recognition of income until the principal balance has been recovered. Should a loan reach 60 days past maturity we then classify such loan as past due.

We may agree, in certain instances, to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan. In cases where such modifications represent a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty, the modification is considered a TDR. Modifications as a result of a TDR may include, but are not limited to, interest rate modifications, payment deferrals, restructuring of payments to interest-only from amortizing and/or extensions of maturity dates. Modifications which result in insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls are generally not classified as a TDR. Residential mortgage loans discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing are also reported as loans modified in a TDR as relief granted by a court is also viewed as a concession to the borrower in the loan agreement. Loans modified in a TDR are individually classified as impaired loans and are initially placed on non-accrual status regardless of their delinquency status. Loans modified in a TDR remain in non-accrual status until we determine that future collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured. Where we have agreed to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan, we require the borrower to demonstrate performance according to the restructured terms, generally for a period of at least six months, prior to returning the loan to accrual status. Loans modified in a TDR which have been returned to accrual status are excluded from non-performing loans but remain classified as impaired.

We establish and maintain an allowance for loan losses based on our evaluation of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio. Loan charge-offs in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible reduce the allowance for loan losses. Recoveries of amounts previously charged-off increase the allowance for loan losses in the period they are received. The allowance is adjusted to an appropriate level through provisions for loan losses charged or credited to operations to increase or decrease the allowance based on a comprehensive analysis of our loan portfolio. We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis. The allowance is comprised of both valuation allowances related to individual loans and general valuation allowances, although the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. In estimating specific allocations of the allowance, we review loans deemed to be impaired and measure impairment losses based on either the fair value of the collateral, the observable market price of the loan or the present value of expected future cash flows. A loan is considered impaired when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include the financial condition of the borrower, payment history, delinquency status, collateral value, our lien position and the probability of collecting principal and interest payments when due. When an impairment analysis indicates the need for a specific allocation of the allowance on an individual loan, such allocation would be established sufficient to cover probable incurred losses at the evaluation date based on the facts and circumstances of the loan. When available information confirms that specific loans, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses. For loans individually classified as impaired, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of either the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated selling costs, for collateral dependent loans, the observable market price of the loan or the present value of the discounted cash flows of a modified loan, is generally charged-off.

Estimated losses for loans that are not individually deemed to be impaired are determined on a loan pool basis using our historical loss experience and various other qualitative factors and comprise our general valuation allowances. General valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent risks associated with our lending activities which, unlike individual valuation allowances, have not been allocated to particular loans. The determination of the adequacy of the general valuation allowances takes into consideration a variety of factors.

We segment our residential mortgage loan portfolio by interest-only and amortizing loans, full documentation and reduced documentation loans, and origination time periods, and analyze our historical loss experience and delinquency levels and trends of these segments. We analyze multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans by portfolio using predictive modeling techniques for loans originated after 2010 and by geographic location for loans originated prior to 2011. We analyze our consumer and other loan portfolio by home equity lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans and other consumer loans and perform similar historical loss analyses. In our analysis of non-performing loans, we consider our aggregate historical loss experience with respect to the ultimate disposition of the underlying collateral along with the migration of delinquent loans based on the portfolio segments noted above. These analyses and the resulting loss rates are used as an integral part of our judgment in developing estimated loss percentages to apply to the loan portfolio segments. We monitor credit risk on interest-only hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, loans that were underwritten at the initial note rate, which may have been a discounted rate, in the same manner that we monitor credit risk on all interest-only hybrid ARM loans. We monitor interest rate reset dates of our loan portfolio, in the aggregate, and the current interest rate environment and consider the impact, if any, on borrowers’ ability to continue to make timely principal and interest payments in determining our allowance for loan losses. We also consider the size, composition, risk profile and delinquency levels of our loan portfolio, as well as our credit administration and asset management procedures. We monitor property value trends in our market areas by reference to various industry and market reports, economic releases and surveys, and our general and specific knowledge of the real estate markets in which we lend, in order to determine what impact, if any, such trends may have on the level of our general valuation allowances. In addition, we evaluate and consider the impact that current and anticipated economic and market conditions may have on the loan portfolio and known and inherent risks in the portfolio. We update our analyses quarterly and refine our evaluations as experience provides clearer guidance, our product offerings change and as economic conditions evolve.

Our evaluation of loss experience factors considers trends in such factors over the prior three years, as well as an estimate of the average amount of time from an event signaling the potential inability of a borrower to continue to pay as agreed to the point at which a loss is confirmed, for substantially all of the loan portfolio, with the exception of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans originated after 2010, for which our evaluation includes predictive modeling techniques. We also analyze our historical loss experience over 12, 15, 18 and 24 month periods. The loss history used in calculating our quantitative allowance coverage percentages varies based on loan type. Also, for a particular loan type, we may not have sufficient loss history to develop a reasonable estimate of loss and in these instances we may consider our loss experience for other, similar loan types and may evaluate those losses over a longer period than two years. Additionally, multi-family and commercial real estate loss experience may be adjusted based on the composition of the losses (loan sales, short sales and partial charge-offs). Modeling techniques utilize data inputs for each loan in the portfolio, including credit facility terms and performance to date, property details and borrower financial performance data. The model also incorporates real estate market data from an established real estate market database company to forecast future performance of the properties, and includes a loan loss predictive model based on studies of defaulted commercial real estate loans. The model then generates a probability of default, loss given default and ultimately an estimated loss for each loan quarterly over the remaining life of the loan. The appropriate timeframe from which to assign an estimated loss percentage to the pool of loans is assessed by management. We update our historical loss analyses, as well as our predictive model, quarterly and evaluate the need to modify our quantitative allowances as a result of our updated charge-off and loss analyses.

We also consider qualitative factors with the purpose of assessing the adequacy of the overall allowance for loan losses as well as the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category. The qualitative factors we consider generally include, but are not limited to, changes in (1) lending policies and procedures, (2) economic and business conditions and developments that affect collectability of our loan portfolio, (3) the nature and volume of our loan portfolio and in the terms of loans, (4) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other staff, (5) the volume and severity of past due, non-accrual and adversely classified loans, (6) the quality of the loan review system, (7) the value of underlying collateral, (8) the existence or effect of any credit concentrations (9) external factors such as competition and legal or regulatory requirements and (10) factors arising outside the scope of the aforementioned nine factors may also be considered as appropriate. In addition to the ten qualitative factors noted, we also review certain analytical information such as our coverage ratios and peer analysis.

Allowance adequacy calculations are adjusted quarterly, based on the results of our quantitative and qualitative analyses, to reflect our current estimates of the amount of probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio. Allocations of the allowance to each loan category are adjusted quarterly to reflect probable inherent losses using the same quantitative and qualitative analyses used in connection with the overall allowance adequacy calculations. The portion of the allowance allocated to each loan category does not represent the total available to absorb losses which may occur within the loan category, since the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. The balance of our allowance for loan losses represents management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Actual results could differ from our estimates as a result of changes in economic or market conditions. Changes in estimates could result in a material change in the allowance for loan losses. While we believe that the allowance for loan losses has been established and maintained at levels that reflect the risks inherent in our loan portfolio, future adjustments may be necessary if portfolio performance or economic or market conditions differ substantially from the conditions that existed at the time of the initial determinations.

(g) Mortgage Servicing Rights

We recognize as separate assets the rights to service mortgage loans. The right to service loans for others is generally obtained through the sale of residential mortgage loans with servicing retained. The initial asset recognized for originated MSR is measured at fair value. The fair value of MSR is estimated by reference to current market values of similar loans sold servicing released. MSR are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. We apply the amortization method for measurements of our MSR. MSR are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date. MSR impairment, if any, is recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings. Increases in the fair value of impaired MSR are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowance. Fees earned for servicing loans are reported as income, as a component of mortgage banking income, net, in the consolidated statements of income, when the related mortgage loan payments are collected.

We assess impairment of our MSR based on the estimated fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis with any impairment recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum. We stratify our MSR by underlying loan type (primarily fixed and adjustable) and interest rate. Individual allowances for each stratum are then adjusted in subsequent periods to reflect changes in the measurement of impairment.

We outsource the servicing of our residential mortgage loan portfolio, including our portfolio of mortgage loans serviced for other investors, to an unrelated third party under a sub-servicing agreement. Fees paid under the sub-servicing agreement are reported as a component of occupancy, equipment and systems expense in the consolidated statements of income.

(h) Premises and Equipment

Land is carried at cost. Buildings and improvements, leasehold improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Premises and equipment at cost totaled $308.4 million with accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $207.4 million at December 31, 2016, and totaled $305.0 million with accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $195.2 million at December 31, 2015. Buildings and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the term of the related leases or the estimated useful lives of the improved property.

(i) Goodwill

Goodwill is presumed to have an indefinite useful life and is tested, at least annually, for impairment at the reporting unit level. If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, further evaluation is not necessary. However, if the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, further evaluation is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying amount to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required. Impairment exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.

For purposes of our goodwill impairment testing, we have identified a single reporting unit. We consider the quoted market price of our common stock on our impairment testing date as an initial indicator of estimating the fair value of our reporting unit. We also consider our average stock price, both before and after our impairment test date, as well as market-based control premiums in determining the estimated fair value of our reporting unit. In addition to our internal goodwill impairment analysis, we periodically obtain a goodwill impairment analysis from an independent third party valuation firm. The independent third party utilizes multiple valuation approaches including comparable transactions, control premium, public market peers and discounted cash flow. Management reviews the assumptions and inputs used in the third party analysis for reasonableness. At December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of our goodwill totaled $185.2 million. As of September 30, 2016, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test internally and obtained an independent third party analysis and concluded there was no goodwill impairment. We would test our goodwill for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount. No events have occurred and no circumstances have changed since our annual impairment test date that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount. The identification of additional reporting units, the use of other valuation techniques or changes to the input assumptions used in our analysis or the analysis by our third party valuation firm could result in materially different evaluations of impairment.

(j) Bank Owned Life Insurance

Bank owned life insurance, or BOLI, is carried at the amount that could be realized under our life insurance contract as of the date of the statement of financial condition and is classified as a non-interest-earning asset. Increases in the carrying value are recorded as non-interest income and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value. The carrying value consisted of a cash surrender value of $410.2 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $30.9 million at December 31, 2016 and a cash surrender value of $409.4 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $30.3 million at December 31, 2015. Repayment of the claims stabilization reserve (funds transferred from the cash surrender value to provide for future death benefit payments) is guaranteed by the insurance carrier provided that certain conditions are met at the date of a contract surrender. We satisfied these conditions at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

(k) Real Estate Owned

Real estate owned, or REO, represents real estate acquired through foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure and is initially recorded at estimated fair value less estimated selling costs. Thereafter, we maintain a valuation allowance, representing decreases in the properties’ estimated fair value, through charges to earnings. Such charges are included in other non-interest expense along with any additional property maintenance and protection expenses incurred in owning the property. REO totaled $15.1 million, which is net of a valuation allowance of $1.2 million, at December 31, 2016 and $19.8 million, which is net of a valuation allowance of $1.3 million, at December 31, 2015.

(l) Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase

We enter into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase, or repo agreements, with approved securities dealers and banks, and the FHLB-NY. Such agreements are accounted for as secured financing transactions since we maintain effective control over the transferred securities and the transfer meets the other criteria for such accounting. Obligations under repo agreements are reflected as a liability in our consolidated statements of financial condition. The securities underlying the agreements are delivered to a custodial account for the benefit of the dealer or bank with whom each transaction is executed. The dealers or banks, who may sell, loan or otherwise dispose of such securities to other parties in the normal course of their operations, agree to resell us the same securities at the maturities of the agreements. We retain the right of substitution of collateral throughout the terms of the agreements. The securities underlying the agreements are classified as encumbered securities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.

(m) Derivative Financial Instruments

As part of our interest rate risk management, we may utilize, from time-to-time, derivative financial instruments which are recorded as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivatives are reported in our results of operations or other comprehensive income/loss depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. We may enter into derivative financial instruments with no hedging designation. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized currently in our results of operations, generally in other non-interest expense. We do not use derivatives for trading purposes.

(n) Income Taxes

We use the asset and liability method to provide for income taxes on all transactions recorded in the consolidated financial statements. Income tax expense consists of income taxes that are currently payable and deferred 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 basis of existing assets and liabilities and net operating loss carryforwards. We assess our deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if realization of a deferred tax asset is not considered to be more likely than not. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date. Certain tax benefits attributable to stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, including the tax benefit related to dividends paid on unvested restricted stock awards, are credited to additional paid-in-capital. We maintain a reserve related to certain tax positions and strategies that management believes contain an element of uncertainty and evaluate each of our tax positions and strategies to determine whether the reserve continues to be appropriate. Accruals of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized in income tax expense.

(o) Earnings Per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share, or EPS, is computed pursuant to the two-class method by dividing net income available to common shareholders less dividends paid on participating securities (unvested shares of restricted common stock) and any undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the year. The weighted average common shares outstanding includes the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding less the weighted average number of unvested shares of restricted common stock.

Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but includes the effect of dilutive potential common shares during the period, such as unexercised stock options and unvested restricted stock units, calculated using the treasury stock method. However, unvested restricted stock units are excluded from the denominator for both the basic and diluted EPS computations until the performance conditions are satisfied.

(p) Employee Benefits

Astoria Bank has a qualified, non-contributory defined benefit pension plan, or the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, covering employees meeting specified eligibility criteria. Astoria Bank’s policy is to fund pension costs in accordance with the minimum funding requirement. In addition, Astoria Bank has non-qualified and unfunded supplemental retirement plans covering certain officers and directors including the Astoria Bank Excess Benefit Plan and the Astoria Bank Supplemental Benefit Plan, or the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans, and the Astoria Bank Directors’ Retirement Plan, or the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan. Effective April 30, 2012, the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans and the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan were amended to, among other things, change the manner in which benefits were computed for service through April 30, 2012 and to suspend accrual of additional benefits for all of the aforementioned plans effective April 30, 2012. These amendments resulted in a significant reduction in net periodic cost for our defined benefit pension plans for periods subsequent to April 30, 2012.

We also sponsor a health care plan that provides for postretirement medical and dental coverage to select individuals. The costs of postretirement benefits are accrued during an employee’s active working career.

We recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan, which is measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation at the measurement date, in other assets or other liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition. Changes in the funded status are recognized through other comprehensive income/loss in the period in which the changes occur.

(q) Stock Incentive Plans

We recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of awards. Stock-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period which is the earlier of the awards’ stated vesting date or the employees’ or non-employee directors’ retirement eligibility date for awards that have accelerated vesting provisions upon retirement. For awards which have performance-based conditions, recognition of stock-based compensation expense begins when the achievement of the performance conditions is probable. The fair value of restricted common stock and restricted stock unit awards are based on the closing market value of our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the grant date, reduced by the present value of the expected dividend stream during the vesting period for restricted stock unit awards using a risk-free interest rate.

(r) Segment Reporting

As a community-oriented financial institution, substantially all of our operations involve the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers. We make operating decisions and assess performance based on an ongoing review of these community banking operations, which constitute our only operating segment for financial reporting purposes.

(s) Impact of Recent Accounting Standards and Interpretations

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” to replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic and eliminate industry-specific guidance, providing a unified model to determine when and how revenue is recognized. We will adopt this guidance in the first quarter of 2018 using the modified retrospective method with a cumulative-effect adjustment to opening retained earnings, as appropriate. Our revenue is comprised of net interest income on financial assets and financial liabilities and non-interest income. The scope of ASU 2014-09 explicitly excludes net interest income as well as other revenues associated with financial assets and liabilities, including loans, leases, securities and derivatives. Accordingly, the majority of our revenues will not be affected. Other recurring revenue streams are within the scope of ASU 2014-09, including revenues associated with certain products and services offered by our banking and insurance businesses. Our preliminary analysis suggests that adoption of ASU 2014-09 is not expected to have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments - Overall (Subtopic 825-10) - Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in ASU 2016-01 require all equity investments to be measured at fair value, with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those resulting in consolidation of the investee). The amendments in ASU 2016-01 also require an entity to present separately in “other comprehensive income” the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. In addition, the amendments in ASU 2016-01 eliminate the requirement to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet for public business entities. ASU 2016-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption of ASU 2016-01 is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated statements of condition or results of operations.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842),” which requires lessees to recognize most leases, including operating leases, on-balance sheet via a right-to-use asset that will be depreciated over the term of the lease and a lease liability measured on a discounted basis. This will require many entities including Astoria Bank to include more existing leases on-balance sheet. We have identified several areas that are within the scope of ASU 2016-02, including Astoria Bank's contracts with respect to leased real estate and office equipment. We continue to evaluate the impact of ASU 2016-02, including determining whether other contracts exist that are deemed to be in scope. As such, no conclusions have yet been reached regarding the potential impact of adoption on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. ASU 2016-02 is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim period within those fiscal years.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, “Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718) - Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting,” which applies to all entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. The amendments involve several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are part of FASB's Simplification Initiative, the stated objective of which is to identify, evaluate, and improve areas of GAAP for which cost and complexity can be reduced while maintaining or improving the usefulness of the information provided to users of financial statements. We adopted ASU 2016-09 prospectively, effective for the fourth quarter of 2016. Upon adoption, we recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings of $67.0 million. In addition, ASU 2016-09 requires that excess tax benefits and shortfalls be recorded as income tax benefit or expense in the income statement, rather than equity. This resulted in a $475,000 benefit to income tax expense in the fourth quarter of 2016. Relative to forfeitures, ASU 2016-09 allows an entity’s accounting policy election to either continue to estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest, as under current guidance, or account for forfeitures when they occur. We have elected to continue our existing practice of estimating the number of awards that are expected to vest. The income tax effects of ASU 2016-09 on the statement of cash flows are now classified as cash flows from operating activities, rather than cash flows from financing activities. We elected to apply this cash flow classification guidance prospectively and, therefore, prior periods have not been adjusted. ASU 2016-09 also requires the presentation of certain employee withholding taxes as a financing activity on the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows; this is consistent with the manner in which we have presented such employee withholding taxes in the past. Accordingly, no reclassification for prior periods is required.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which require a financial asset measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is to be based on information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. This measurement is to take place at the time an asset is first added to the balance sheet and periodically thereafter. This differs significantly from the “incurred loss” methodology for recognizing credit losses required under current GAAP, which delays recognition until it is probable a loss has been incurred. The new standard is effective for public companies for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2016-13 on our accounting, but we expect to recognize a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to our allowance for loan losses as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the new standard becomes effective. While we have begun the process of compiling historical loss data by loan category, we cannot yet determine the magnitude of any such one-time cumulative adjustment or of the overall impact of the new standard on our financial condition or results of operations. Further, to date, no guidance has been issued by either our or Astoria Bank’s primary regulator with respect to how the impact of ASU 2016-13 is to be treated for regulatory capital purposes.