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Heritage Financial Corporation

hfwa · NASDAQ Financial Services
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Ticker hfwa
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Industry Banks - Regional
Employees 757
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FY2018 Annual Report · Heritage Financial Corporation
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2018

ANNUAL REPORT

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION

201 5th Avenue SW

Olympia, WA 98501

360.943.1500 | 800.455.6126

HERITAGE BANK

Brian L. Vance

Chief Executive Officer

Heritage Financial Corporation

President & Chief Executive Officer

Jeffrey J. Deuel

Heritage Bank

Bryan D. McDonald

Executive Vice President

Chief Operating Officer

Donald J. Hinson

Executive Vice President

Chief Financial Officer

David A. Spurling

Executive Vice President

Chief Credit Officer

Lisa Banner

Executive Vice President

Director of Shared Services

William K. Glasby

Executive Vice President

Chief Technology Officer

Thomas J. Henning

Executive Vice President

Chief Risk Officer

Cindy M. Huntley

Executive Vice President

Director of Retail Banking

Sabrina C. Robison

Senior Vice President

Chief Human Resources Officer

Kaylene M. Lahn

Senior Vice President

Corporate Secretary

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

TRANSFER AGENT

The annual meeting will be held Wednesday,

May 1, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree

by Hilton, Olympia, WA.

All shareholders are invited to attend.

NASDAQ: HFWA | WWW.HF -WA.COM

Computershare

250 Royall Street

Canton, MA 02021

Phone: 800.962.4284

www.computershare.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Deborah J. Gavin, John A. Clees

Standing left to right: Jeffrey S. Lyon, Ann Watson, Brian L. Vance, Brian S. Charneski, Stephen A. Dennis,

Seated left to right: Anthony B. Pickering, Kimberly T. Ellwanger, Gragg E. Miller

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Brian S. Charneski

Chairman of the Board,

John A. Clees

Attorney, Worth Law Group

Stephen A. Dennis

President, L&E Bottling Company

Controller of The Boeing Company

Heritage Financial Corporation

Deborah J. Gavin

Brian L. Vance

Retired Vice President of Finance and

Chief Executive Officer,

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,

Jeffrey S. Lyon

Kidder Mathews

Ann Watson

Chief Operating Officer,

Cascadia Capital, LLC

Retired President and Chief Executive

Gragg E. Miller

Officer of Quadrant Homes

Kimberly T. Ellwanger

Retired Senior Director of Corporate

Affairs and Associate General Counsel,

Microsoft Corporation

Retired Principal Managing Broker

of Coldwell Banker Bain

Anthony B. Pickering

Former Owner of Max Dale’s Restaurant

and Stanwood Grill

Brian S. Charneski

Brian L. Vance

Jeffrey J. Deuel

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

We continued to make positive progress in 2018 including several notable events. First, we
surpassed $5.0 billion in total assets after the two mergers with Puget Sound Bancorp in Bellevue,
Washington in January and Premier Commercial Bancorp in Hillsboro, Oregon in July. As a result
of organic growth and the two mergers, total assets grew 29% year over year, and we were able to
strengthen our positions in the King County, Washington market as well as the Portland, Oregon
market. We are anxious to see the combined teams perform together in 2019 and we welcome our
new shareholders from Puget Sound Bancorp and Premier Commercial Bancorp.

A second event during 2018 was the announced retirement of Brian Vance as Chief Executive
Officer (“CEO”). After 24 years at the Bank, and twelve years as CEO, Mr. Vance will retire effective
July 1, 2019. At that time, he will take on the role of Board Chair of the Company. He is being
succeeded by Jeff Deuel who took on the role of President and CEO of the Bank in July after eight
years as part of the Heritage leadership team. It is anticipated that Mr. Deuel will become CEO of
the Company on the retirement of Mr. Vance. Bryan McDonald, Executive Vice President, assumed
the role of Chief Operating Officer of the Bank in July. Mr. McDonald joined the Heritage team at
the time of the Washington Banking Company merger in 2014. We are pleased to report the CEO
transition has been very a smooth process.

It is important to note that our stock price reached an all-time high of $37.40 on September 10,
2018. While we witnessed a downward shift in the stock market at the very end of 2018, our stock
closed at $29.72 on December 31, 2018, resulting in a three-year shareholder return of 72%. We
have demonstrated an attractive long-term return for our shareholders with an annual total return
of 12.2% over the past 10 years. Heritage declared total dividends of $0.72 in 2018, an increase
of 18.0% from the $0.61 declared in 2017. This was followed by a regular dividend of $0.18 per
common share in the first quarter of 2019, which was an increase of 5.9% from the prior quarter
dividend of $0.17 per common share.

The 2018 financial performance of the Company was impacted by substantial merger-related and
one-time expenses. However, even including these expenses, we were still able to report diluted
earnings per share of $1.49 for 2018, an increase of 7.2% over the prior year. As noted in our
January 24, 2019 Earnings Release, adjusting for the previously mentioned expenses, we continue to
see positive progress in our performance metrics.

In addition to the two mergers in 2018, we also continued to focus on our strategic initiatives
including growth in King County and Portland, ongoing development of our digital platform, and a
continued focus on enhancing the operating leverage of the company.

We are so proud of our dedicated employees who continue to deliver strong performance while also
growing the Bank. They are a team of professionals who are committed to working together to fulfill
our mission of being the leading community bank in the Pacific Northwest by continuously improving
customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, community investment, and shareholder value.

Together as a team, the Board, the leadership team, and the employees continue to build on an
already strong corporate culture that is defined by our traditions, our combined heritage, our focus
on integrity of process, our support of each other, our openness to adopt best practices, and,
ultimately, by our desire to serve our customers better in all of our communities.

We thank you for your confidence in Heritage as we continue to execute on our long-term strategies.

Sincerely,

Brian S. Charneski
Board Chair

Brian L. Vance
Chief Executive Officer

Jeffrey J. Deuel
President

2018 

FORM 10—K

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018 or

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission File Number 000-29480 

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 

Washington

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

201 Fifth Avenue SW, Olympia, WA

(Address of principal executive offices)

91-1857900

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

98501

(Zip Code)

(360) 943-1500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code) 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class
Common Stock

Name of each exchange on which registered
NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has 
been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to 
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was 
required to submit such files).    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained 
herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by 
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting 

company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company," 
and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act

Large accelerated filer  
Non-accelerated filer  

Accelerated filer  
Smaller reporting company  
Emerging growth company  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying 

with any new or revised financial accounting standards pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.    

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  

    No  

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2018, based on 
the closing price of its common stock on such date, on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, of $34.85 per share, and 33,420,421 shares 
held by non-affiliates was $1,164,701,672. The registrant had 36,879,557 shares of common stock outstanding as of February 19, 2019.

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be incorporated by reference into 
Part III of this Form 10-K.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-K
December 31, 2018 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES

ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER 

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 

OPERATIONS

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION—DECEMBER 31, 2018 AND 
DECEMBER 31, 2017

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME—FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2018, 
2017 AND 2016

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME—FOR THE YEARS ENDED 
DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY—FOR THE YEARS ENDED 
DECEMBER 31, 2018, 2017 AND 2016

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS—FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 
2018, 2017 AND 2016

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION, SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING 

POLICIES AND RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

NOTE 2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

NOTE 3.

INVESTMENT SECURITIES

NOTE 4.

LOANS RECEIVABLE

NOTE 5. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES

NOTE 6. OTHER REAL ESTATE OWNED

NOTE 7. PREMISE AND EQUIPMENT

NOTE 8. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

NOTE 9. DEPOSITS

NOTE 10. JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES

NOTE 11. REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS

NOTE 12. OTHER BORROWINGS

NOTE 13. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

NOTE 14. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

NOTE 15. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

NOTE 16. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

NOTE 17. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

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NOTE 18. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

NOTE 19. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

NOTE 20. CASH REQUIREMENT

NOTE 21.

INCOME TAXES

NOTE 22. REGULATORY CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

NOTE 23. HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION (PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

NOTE 24. SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 

DISCLOSURE

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 

STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

PART IV

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

SIGNATURES

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report on Form 10-K ("Form 10-K") may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning 
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often include the words “believes,” 
“expects,”  “anticipates,”  “estimates,”  “forecasts,”  “intends,”  “plans,”  “targets,”  “potentially,”  “probably,”  “projects,” 
“outlook” or similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would” and “could.” These 
forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause 
actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated, including:

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our  ability  to  successfully  integrate  any  assets,  liabilities,  customers,  systems,  and  management 
personnel from our recent mergers with Puget Sound Bancorp, Inc., and Premier Commercial Bancorp, 
or may in the future acquire, into our operations and our ability to realize related revenue synergies 
and cost savings within expected time frames or at all, and any goodwill charges related thereto and 
costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee 
retention, which might be greater than expected;
the credit risks of lending activities, including changes in the level and trend of loan delinquencies and 
write-offs and changes in our allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses that may be 
impacted  by  deterioration  in  the  housing  and  commercial  real  estate  markets,  which  may  lead  to 
increased losses and non-performing assets in our loan portfolio, and may result in our allowance for 
loan losses not being adequate to cover actual losses, and require us to increase our allowance for 
loan losses and provision for loan losses;
changes in general economic conditions, either nationally or in our market areas;
changes in the levels of general interest rates, and the relative differences between short and long 
term interest rates, deposit interest rates, our net interest margin and funding sources;
risks related to acquiring assets in or entering markets in which we have not previously operated and 
may not be familiar;
fluctuations in the demand for loans, the number of unsold homes and other properties and fluctuations 
in real estate values in our market areas;
results of examinations of us by the bank regulators, including the possibility that any such regulatory 
authority may, among other things, require us to increase our allowance for loan losses, write-down 
assets, change our regulatory capital position, affect our ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase 
deposits, or impose additional requirements on us, any of which could affect our ability to continue 
our growth through mergers, acquisitions or similar transactions and adversely affect our liquidity and 
earnings;
legislative or regulatory changes that adversely affect our business including but not limited to, the 
Dodd-Frank  Wall  Street  Reform  and  Consumer  Protection  Act  of  2010  (“Dodd-Frank  Act"),  the 
Expected Credit Loss model required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board through Accounting 
Standard  Update  2016-13  beginning  with  the  Form  10-Q  as  of  the  first  quarter  of  2020,  and 
implementing  regulations,  changes  in  regulatory  policies  and  principles,  or  the  interpretation  of 
regulatory capital or other rules as a result of Basel III;
our ability to control operating costs and expenses;
increases in premiums for deposit insurance;
the use of estimates in determining fair value of certain of our assets, which estimates may prove to 
be incorrect and result in significant declines in valuation;
staffing fluctuations in response to product demand or the implementation of corporate strategies that 
affect our workforce and potential associated charges;
disruptions, security breaches, or other adverse events, failures or interruptions in, or attacks on, our 
information  technology  systems  or  on  the  third-party  vendors  who  perform  several  of  our  critical 
processing functions;
our ability to retain key members of our senior management team;
costs and effects of litigation, including settlements and judgments;
our ability to implement our growth strategies;
increased competitive pressures among financial service companies;
changes in consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits;
the availability of resources to address changes in laws, rules, or regulations or to respond to regulatory 
actions;
adverse changes in the securities markets;
inability of key third-party providers to perform their obligations to us;
changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the financial institution regulatory 
agencies or the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB"), including additional guidance and 

4

• 

interpretation on accounting issues and details of the implementation of new accounting methods; 
and
other  economic,  competitive,  governmental,  regulatory,  and  technological  factors  affecting  our 
operations, pricing, products and services and the other risks described elsewhere in this Form 10-
K.

Some of these and other factors are discussed in this Form 10-K under the caption Item 1A. Risk Factors and 
elsewhere in this Form 10-K. Such developments could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial 
position and results of operations.

We caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements on any forward-looking 
statements discussed in this Form 10-K. Moreover, you should treat these statements as speaking only as of the date 
they are made and based only on information then actually known to us. We do not undertake and specifically disclaim 
any obligation to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events 
or circumstances after the date of such statements. These risks could cause our actual results for future periods to 
differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements by, or on behalf of, us, and could negatively 
affect our operating results and stock price performance.

As used throughout this report, the terms “we”, “our”, “us”, “Heritage” or the “Company” refers to Heritage 

Financial Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires.

ITEM 1.  

BUSINESS

General

PART I

Heritage Financial Corporation is a bank holding company that was incorporated in the State of Washington 
in August 1997. We are primarily engaged in the business of planning, directing, and coordinating the business activities 
of our wholly owned subsidiary, Heritage Bank (the "Bank"). The deposits of the Bank are insured by the Federal 
Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC"). 

Heritage Bank is headquartered in Olympia, Washington and conducts business from its 64 branch offices 
located primarily along the I-5 corridor in the western Washington and the greater Portland, Oregon area. We additionally 
have offices located in central Washington, primarily in Yakima County.

Our business consists primarily of commercial lending and deposit relationships with small and medium sized 
businesses and their owners in our market areas, and attracting deposits from the general public. We also make real 
estate construction and land development loans and consumer loans. The Bank also originates for sale or investment 
purposes one-to-four family residential loans on residential properties located primarily in our market.

Business Strategy

Our business strategy is to be a community bank, seeking deposits from our communities and making loans 
to customers with local ties to our markets. We believe we have an innovative team providing financial services and 
focusing on the success of our customers. We are committed to being the leading community bank in the Pacific 
Northwest  by  continuously  improving  customer  satisfaction,  employee  empowerment,  community  investment  and 
shareholder value. Our commitment defines our relationships, sets expectations for our actions and directs decision-
making in these four fundamental areas. We will seek to achieve our business goals through the following strategies:

Expand geographically as opportunities present themselves.    We are committed to continuing the controlled 
expansion of our franchise through strategic acquisitions designed to increase our market share and enhance franchise 
value. We believe that consolidation across the community bank landscape will continue to take place and further 
believe that, with our capital and liquidity positions, our approach to credit management, and our extensive acquisition 
experience, we are well-positioned to take advantage of acquisitions or other business opportunities in our market 
areas. In markets where we wish to enter or expand our business, we will also consider opening de novo branches. 
In the past, we have successfully integrated acquired institutions and opened de novo branches. We will continue to 
be disciplined and opportunistic as it pertains to future acquisitions and de novo branching, focusing on the Pacific 
Northwest markets we know and understand.

Focus on Asset Quality.    A strong credit culture is a high priority for us. We have a well-developed credit 
approval structure that has enabled us to maintain a standard of asset quality that we believe is conservative while at 
the same time allowing us to achieve our lending objectives. We will continue to focus on loan types and markets that 
we know well and where we have a historical record of success. We focus on loan relationships that are well-diversified 
in both size and industry types. With respect to commercial business lending, which is our predominant lending activity, 

5

 
we view ourselves as cash-flow lenders obtaining additional support from realistic collateral values, personal guarantees 
and other secondary sources of repayment. We have a problem loan resolution process that is focused on quick 
detection and implementing feasible solutions. We seek to maintain strong internal controls and subject our loans to 
periodic internal loan reviews.

Maintain Strong Balance Sheet.    In addition to our focus on underwriting, we believe that the strength of our 
balance sheet provides us with the flexibility to manage through a variety of scenarios including additional growth-
related activities. As of December 31, 2018, the ratio of our allowance for loan losses to loans receivable, net was 
0.96% and the ratio of the allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans was 255.73%. Our liquidity position was 
also strong, with $161.9 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018, 
the regulatory capital ratios of our subsidiary bank were well in excess of the levels required for “well-capitalized” 
status, and our consolidated common equity tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets, total risk-based capital, Tier 1 risk-
based capital and leverage capital ratios were 11.7%, 12.9% 12.1% and 10.5%, respectively.

Deposit Growth.    Our strategic focus is to continuously grow deposits with emphasis on total relationship 
banking with our business and retail customers. We continue to seek to increase our market share in the communities 
we serve by providing exceptional customer service, focusing on relationship development with local businesses and 
strategic branch expansion. Our primary focus is to maintain a high level of non-maturity deposits to internally fund 
our loan growth with a low reliance on maturity (certificate) deposits. At December 31, 2018, our non-maturity deposits 
were 89.5% of our total deposits. Our technology-based products, including on-line personal financial management, 
business cash management and business remote deposit products enable us to compete effectively with banks of all 
sizes. Our retail and commercial management teams are well-seasoned and have strong ties to the communities we 
serve with a strong focus on relationship building and customer service.

Emphasize business relationships with a focus on commercial lending.    We will continue to market primarily 
commercial business loans and the deposit balances that accompany these relationships. Our seasoned lending staff 
has extensive knowledge and can add value through a focused advisory role that we believe strengthens our customer 
relationships  and  develops  loyalty.  We  currently  have  and  will  seek  to  maintain  a  diversified  portfolio  of  lending 
relationships without significant concentrations in any industry.

Recruit  and  retain  highly  competent  personnel  to  execute  our  strategies.    Our  compensation  and  staff 
development programs are aligned with our strategies to grow our loans and core deposits while maintaining our focus 
on asset quality. Our incentive systems are designed to achieve balanced, high quality asset growth while maintaining 
appropriate  mechanisms  to  reduce  or  eliminate  incentive  payments  when  appropriate.  Our  equity  compensation 
programs and retirement benefits are designed to build and encourage employee ownership at all levels of the Company 
and we align employee performance objectives with corporate growth strategies and shareholder value. We have a 
strong corporate culture, which is supported by our commitment to internal development and promotion from within 
as well as the retention of management and officers in key roles. 

History

Heritage Bank celebrated its 90th anniversary during 2017.  The Bank was established in 1927 as a federally-
charted mutual savings bank. In 1992, the Bank converted to a state-charted mutual savings bank under the name 
Heritage  Savings  Bank.  Through  the  mutual  holding  company  reorganization  of  the  Bank  and  the  subsequent 
conversion of the mutual holding company, the Bank became a stock savings bank and a wholly-owned subsidiary of 
the Company effective August 1997. Effective September 1, 2004, Heritage Savings Bank switched its charter from a 
state-chartered savings bank to a state-chartered commercial bank and changed its legal name from Heritage Savings 
Bank to Heritage Bank.

The Company acquired North Pacific Bancorporation in June 1998 and Washington Independent Bancshares 
and  its  wholly-owned  subsidiary,  Central  Valley  Bank,  in  March  1999.  In  June  2006,  the  Company  completed  the 
acquisition of Western Washington Bancorp and its wholly owned subsidiary, Washington State Bank, N.A., at which 
time Washington State Bank, N.A. was merged into Heritage Bank. 

Effective July 30, 2010, Heritage Bank entered into a definitive agreement with the FDIC, pursuant to which 
Heritage Bank acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Cowlitz Bank, a Washington state-chartered 
commercial bank headquartered in Longview, Washington. The acquisition included nine branches of Cowlitz Bank, 
including its division Bay Bank, which opened as branches of Heritage Bank on August 2, 2010. The acquisition also 
included the Trust Services Division of Cowlitz Bank. 

Effective November 5, 2010, Heritage Bank entered into a definitive agreement with the FDIC, pursuant to 
which Heritage Bank acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Pierce Commercial Bank, a Washington 
state-chartered commercial bank headquartered in Tacoma, Washington. The acquisition included one branch, which 
opened as a branch of Heritage Bank on November 8, 2010. 

6

On September 14, 2012, the Company announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement along with 
Heritage Bank, to acquire Northwest Commercial Bank, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in Lakewood, 
Washington that operated two branch locations in Washington State. The acquisition was completed on January 9, 
2013, at which time Northwest Commercial Bank was merged with and into Heritage Bank. 

On March 11, 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Valley Community Bancshares, 
Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Valley Bank, both headquartered in Puyallup, Washington, and its eight branches. 
The acquisition was completed on July 15, 2013. 

On April 8,  2013,  the  Company  announced  its  intent  to  merge  two  of  its  wholly-owned  bank  subsidiaries, 
Central Valley Bank and Heritage Bank, with Central Valley Bank merging into Heritage Bank. The common control 
merger was completed on June 19, 2013. Central Valley Bank operated as a division of Heritage Bank until September 
2018 at which time the five Central Valley Bank branches were renamed to Heritage Bank branches.

On October 23, 2013, the Company, the Bank, Washington Banking Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary 
bank, Whidbey Island Bank, jointly announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement pursuant to which Heritage 
and Washington Banking Company entered into a strategic merger with Washington Banking Company merging into 
Heritage ("Washington Banking Merger"). Washington Banking Company branches adopted the Heritage Bank name 
in all markets, with the exception of six branches in Whidbey Island markets which continue to operate using the 
Whidbey Island Bank name, as a division of Heritage Bank. The Washington Banking Merger was completed on May 
1, 2014. 

On July 26, 2017, the Company announced the execution of a definitive agreement to purchase Puget Sound 
Bancorp, Inc., ("Puget Sound"), the holding company of Puget Sound Bank, a one-branch business bank headquartered 
in Bellevue, Washington (the "Puget Sound Merger"). The Puget Sound Merger was completed on January 16, 2018.

On  March  8,  2018,  the  Company  announced  the  signing  of  a  definitive  agreement  to  purchase  Premier 
Commercial Bancorp ("Premier Commercial"), the holding company for Premier Community Bank, both of Hillsboro, 
Oregon, and its six branches (the "Premier Merger"). The Premier Merger was completed on July 2, 2018.

For additional information regarding the Puget Sound Merger and Premier Merger (collectively the "Premier 
and Puget Mergers"), see Note (2) Business Combinations of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included 
in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

Retail Banking

We offer a full range of products and services to customers for personal and business banking needs designed 
to attract both short-term and long-term deposits. Deposits are our primary source of funds. Our personal and business 
banking customers have the option of selecting from a variety of accounts. The major categories of deposit accounts 
that we offer are described below. These accounts, with the exception of noninterest demand accounts, generally earn 
interest at rates established by management based on competitive market factors and management’s desire to increase 
or decrease certain types or maturities of deposits.

Noninterest Demand Deposits.    Deposits are noninterest bearing and may be charged service fees based 
on activity and balances.

Interest Bearing Demand Deposits.    Deposits are interest bearing and may be charged service fees based 
on activity and balances. Interest bearing demand deposits pay interest, but require a higher minimum balance 
to avoid service charges.

Money Market Accounts.    Deposits pay an interest rate that is tiered depending on the balance maintained 
in the account. Minimum opening balances vary.

Savings Accounts.    Deposits are interest bearing and allow for unlimited deposits and withdrawals, provided 
that a minimum balance is maintained.

Certificate of Deposit Accounts.    Deposits require a minimum deposit of $2,500 and have maturities ranging 
from three months to five years. Jumbo certificate of deposit accounts are offered in amounts of $100,000 or 
more for terms of 30 days to five years.

Our personal checking accounts feature an array of benefits and options, including online banking, online  
statements, mobile banking with mobile deposit, VISA debit cards and access to more than 32,000 surcharge free 
Automated Teller Machines ("ATMs") through the MoneyPass network. 

We  also  offer  trust  services  through  trust  powers  in  the  states  of  Washington  and  Oregon,  and  a  Wealth 

Management department that provides objective advice from trusted advisors.

7

 
 
 
Lending Activities

Our lending activities are conducted through Heritage Bank. While our focus is on commercial business lending, 
we  also  originate  consumer  loans,  real  estate  construction  and  land  development  loans  and  one-to-four  family 
residential loans. Our loans are originated under policies that are reviewed and approved annually by our Board of 
Directors. In addition, we have established internal lending guidelines that are updated as needed. These policies and 
guidelines address underwriting standards, structure and rate considerations, and compliance with laws, regulations 
and internal lending limits. We conduct post-approval reviews on selected loans and routinely perform internal loan 
reviews of our loan portfolio to confirm credit quality, proper documentation and compliance with laws and regulations. 
Loan repayments are considered one of the primary sources of funding for the Bank.

The Company has also acquired loans through mergers and acquisitions, which are designated as "purchased" 

loans.

Commercial Business Lending

We offer different types of commercial business loans, including lines of credit, term equipment financing and 
term  owner-occupied  and  non-owner  occupied  commercial  real  estate  loans.  We  also  originate  loans  that  are 
guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”), for which Heritage Bank is a “preferred lender”, and 
the  Federal Agricultural  Mortgage  Corporation.  Before  extending  credit  to  a  business  we  review  and  analyze  the 
borrower’s  management  ability,  financial  history,  including  cash  flow  of  the  borrower  and  all  guarantors,  and  the 
liquidation value of the collateral. Emphasis is placed on having a comprehensive understanding of the borrower’s 
global cash flow and performing necessary financial due diligence.

At December 31, 2018 we had $2.94 billion, or 80.4%, of our loans receivable, net in commercial business 
loans with an average outstanding loan balance of approximately $476,000 at December 31, 2018, excluding loans 
with no outstanding balance.

We originate commercial real estate loans within our primary market areas with a preference for loans secured 
by  owner-occupied  properties.  Our  underwriting  standards  require  that  non-owner  occupied  and  owner  occupied 
commercial real estate loans not exceed 75% and 80%, respectively, of the lower of appraised value at origination or 
cost of the underlying collateral. Cash flow debt coverage requirements range from 1.15 times to 1.25 times, depending 
on the type of property. We also stress test debt coverage using an “underwriting” interest rate that is higher than the 
note rate.

Commercial real estate loans typically involve a greater degree of risk than one-to-four family residential loans. 
Payments  on  loans  secured  by  commercial  real  estate  properties  are  dependent  on  successful  operation  and 
management of the properties and repayment of these loans may be affected by adverse conditions in the real estate 
market or the economy. We seek to minimize these risks by determining the financial condition of the borrower and 
tenants, the quality and value of the collateral, and the management of the property securing the loan. We also generally 
obtain personal guarantees from the owners of the collateral after a thorough review of personal financial statements. 
In addition, we review our commercial real estate loan portfolio annually for performance of individual loans, and stress-
test loans for potential changes in interest rates, occupancy, and collateral values.

See also Item 1A. Risk Factors—Our loan portfolio is concentrated in loans with a higher risk of loss.

The Bank enters into non-hedging interest rate swap contracts with its commercial customers, as necessary, 
to  accommodate  the  business  needs  of  borrowers.  For  additional  information,  see  Note  (15)  Derivative  Financial 
Instruments  of  the  Notes  to  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  included  in  Item 8.  Financial  Statements  And 
Supplementary Data. 

One-to-Four Family Residential Loans, Originations and Sales

At December 31, 2018, one-to-four family residential loans totaled $101.8 million. The majority of our one-to-
four  family  residential  loans  are  secured  by  single-family  residences  located  in  our  primary  market  areas.  Our 
underwriting standards require that one-to-four family residential loans generally are owner-occupied and do not exceed 
80% of the lower of appraised value at origination or cost of the underlying collateral. Terms typically range from 15 
to 30 years. 

As part of our asset/liability management strategy, we typically sell a significant portion of our one-to-four family 
residential  loans  in  the  secondary  market  with  no  recourse  and  servicing  released.  See  Item 7.  Management’s 
Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations—Asset/Liability Management. We did not 
service any of these sold loans during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 or 2016.

8

Real Estate Construction and Land Development

At December 31, 2018, we had $215.5 million of real estate construction and land development loans. We 
originate one-to-four family residential construction loans for the construction of custom homes (where the home buyer 
is the borrower). We also provide financing to builders for the construction of pre-sold homes and, in selected cases, 
to builders for the construction of speculative residential property. Because of the higher risks present in the residential 
construction  industry,  our  lending  to  builders  is  limited  to  those  who  have  demonstrated  a  favorable  record  of 
performance and who are building in markets that management understands.

We further endeavor to limit our construction lending risk through adherence to strict underwriting guidelines 
and procedures. Speculative construction loans are short term in nature and have a variable rate of interest. We require 
builders to have tangible equity in each construction project and have prompt and thorough documentation of all draw 
requests, and we inspect the project prior to paying any draw requests.

See also Item 1A. Risk Factors—Our loan portfolio is concentrated in loans with a higher risk of loss.

Consumer

At December 31, 2018, we had $395.5 million of consumer loans. We originate consumer loans and lines of 
credit  that  are  both  secured  and  unsecured. The  majority  of  our  consumer  loans  are  for  relatively  small  amounts 
disbursed among many individual borrowers.

We also originate indirect consumer loans. These loans are for new and used automobile and recreational 
vehicles that are originated indirectly by selected dealers located in our market areas. We have limited our indirect 
loans purchased primarily to dealerships that are established and well-known in their market areas and to applicants 
that are not classified as sub-prime.

Liquidity

As  indicated  above,  our  primary  sources  of  funds  are  deposits  and  loan  repayments.  Scheduled  loan 
repayments are a relatively stable source of funds, while deposits and unscheduled loan prepayments, which are 
influenced  significantly  by  general  interest  rate  levels,  interest  rates  available  on  other  investments,  competition, 
economic conditions and other factors, may not be stable. Customer deposits remain an important source of funding, 
but these balances have been influenced in the past by adverse market conditions in the industry and may be affected 
by future developments such as interest rate fluctuations and new competitive pressures. In addition to customer 
deposits, management may utilize brokered deposits on an as-needed basis and repurchase agreements. At December 
31, 2018, we had brokered deposits of $28.1 million and securities sold under agreement to repurchase of $31.5 million
which were secured by investment securities available for sale.

As secondary sources of funding, we might utilize other borrowings on a short-term basis to compensate for 
reductions in other sources of funds (such as deposit inflows at less than projected levels). Borrowings may also be 
used on a longer-term basis to support expanded lending activities and match the maturity of repricing intervals of 
assets. Other borrowings include advances from Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) of Des Moines and other credit 
facilities.

Federal Home Loan Bank:

The Bank is a member of the FHLB of Des Moines which is one of 11 regional FHLBs that administer the home 
financing credit function of savings institutions. Each FHLB serves as a reserve or central bank for its member financial 
institutions  within  its  assigned  region. It  is  funded  primarily  from  proceeds  derived  from  the  sale  of  consolidated 
obligations of the FHLB system. It makes loans or advances to members in accordance with policies and procedures, 
established by the Board of Directors of the FHLB, which are subject to the oversight of the Federal Housing Finance 
Agency. We rely upon advances from the FHLB as a secondary source of liquidity to supplement our supply of lendable 
funds and meet deposit withdrawal requirements. Advances are made pursuant to several different programs. Each 
credit program has its own interest rate and range of maturities. Depending on the program, limitations on the amount 
of advances are based on a percentage of an institution’s assets or on the FHLB’s assessment of the institution’s 
creditworthiness. Under its current credit policies, the FHLB of Des Moines limits advances to 35% of the Bank's assets.

Advances from the FHLB of Des Moines are typically secured by our first lien one-to-four family residential 
loans, commercial real estate loans and stock issued by the FHLB, which is owned by us. At December 31, 2018, the 
Bank maintained a credit facility with the FHLB of Des Moines in the amount of $921.7 million, of which there were no
advances.

For membership purposes, the Bank is required to maintain an investment in the stock of the FHLB of Des 
Moines in an amount equal to 0.12% of the Bank's assets as calculated on an annual basis. In addition to the FHLB 
stock required for membership, the Bank must purchase activity stock equal to 4.0% of all outstanding borrowing 

9

 
balances. The activity stock is automatically redeemed in amounts equal to the FHLB advance balances as they are 
repaid. At December 31, 2018 the Bank had an investment in stock issued by the FHLB of Des Moines carried at a 
cost basis (par value) of $6.1 million, which entirely represented its membership stock. The Bank was not required to 
have any activity stock because it did not have any outstanding FHLB advance balance at December 31, 2018. 

Other borrowings:

In addition to liquidity provided by FHLB, the Bank maintained an uncommitted credit facility with the Federal 
Reserve Bank of San Francisco of $37.4 million, of which there were no advances or borrowings outstanding as of 
December 31,  2018. The  Bank  also  maintains  advance  lines  with  Wells  Fargo  Bank,  US  Bank, The  Independent 
Bankers Bank and Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bank to purchase federal funds of up to $90.0 million, of which there were 
no advances or borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2018. 

Supervision and Regulation

We are subject to extensive legislation, regulation, and supervision under federal law and the law of Washington 
State, which are primarily intended to protect depositors and the FDIC, and not shareholders. The laws and regulations 
affecting banks and bank holding companies have changed significantly particularly in connection with the enactment 
of  the  Dodd-Frank Act  in  2010. Among  other  changes,  the  Dodd-Frank Act  established  the  Consumer  Protection 
Financial  Bureau  (“CFPB”)  as  an  independent  bureau  of  the  Board  of  Governors  of  the  Federal  Reserve  System 
(“Federal  Reserve”).  The  CFPB  assumed  responsibility  for  the  implementation  of  the  federal  financial  consumer 
protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has authority to impose new requirements. See “—Other Regulatory 
Developments—The  Dodd-Frank Act”  herein  for  a  discussion  of  this  legislation. Any  change  in  applicable  laws, 
regulations, or regulatory policies may have a material effect on our business, operations, and prospects. We cannot 
predict the nature or the extent of the effects on our business and earnings that any fiscal or monetary policies or new 
Federal or State legislation may have in the future.

The following is a summary discussion of certain laws and regulations applicable to Heritage and Heritage 

Bank which is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual laws and regulations.

Heritage Financial    

As a bank holding company registered with the Federal Reserve, we are subject to comprehensive regulation 
and supervision by the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended ("BHCA"), and 
the regulations of the Federal Reserve. This regulation and supervision is generally intended to ensure that we limit 
our activities to those allowed by law and that we operate in a safe and sound manner without endangering the financial 
health of Heritage Bank. We are required to file annual and periodic reports with the Federal Reserve and provide 
additional information as the Federal Reserve may require. The Federal Reserve may examine us, and any of our 
subsidiaries, and assess us for the cost of such examination.

The Federal Reserve has extensive enforcement authority over bank holding companies, including, among 
other things, the ability to assess civil money penalties, to issue cease and desist or removal orders, or require that a 
holding company divest subsidiaries (including its bank subsidiary). In general, enforcement actions may be initiated 
for violations of laws and regulations and unsafe or unsound practices. The Company is also required to file certain 
reports with, and otherwise comply with, the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). 
The Federal Reserve may also order termination of non-banking activities by non-banking subsidiaries of bank holding 
companies, or divestiture of ownership and control of a non-banking subsidiary by a bank holding company. Some 
violations may also result in criminal penalties. 

The Federal Reserve has a policy that a bank holding company is required to serve as a source of financial 
and managerial strength to its subsidiary banks and may not conduct its operations in an unsafe or unsound manner. 
In addition, the Dodd Frank Act and Federal Reserve policy provides that a bank holding company shall be required 
to serve as a source of financial strength for its subsidiary bank. A bank holding company’s failure to meet its obligation 
to serve as a source of strength to its subsidiary banks is generally considered by the Federal Reserve to be an unsafe 
and unsound banking practice or a violation of the Federal Reserve’s regulations or both.

Under the prompt corrective action provisions of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, a bank holding company 
with an undercapitalized subsidiary bank must guarantee, within limitations, the capital restoration plan that is required 
to  be  implemented  for  its  undercapitalized  subsidiary  bank.  If  an  undercapitalized  subsidiary  bank  fails  to  file  an 
acceptable capital restoration plan or fails to implement an accepted plan the Federal Reserve may, among other 
restrictions, prohibit the bank holding company or its undercapitalized subsidiary bank from paying any dividend or 
making any other form of capital distribution without the prior approval of the Federal Reserve. Federal Reserve policy 
also provides that a bank holding company may pay cash dividends only to the extent that the company’s net income 
for the past year is sufficient to cover both the cash dividend and a rate of earnings retention that is consistent with 

10

 
 
the company’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. A bank holding company or bank that does 
not meet the capital conservation buffer requirement is subject to restrictions on the payment of dividends.  See “—
Capital Adequacy” below. In addition, under Washington corporate law, a company generally may not pay dividends 
if after that payment the company would not be able to pay its liabilities as they become due in the usual course of 
business, or its total assets would be less than its total liabilities.

We, and any subsidiaries which we may control, are considered “affiliates” of the Bank within the meaning of 
the  Federal  Reserve Act,  and  transactions  between  our  bank  subsidiary  and  affiliates  are  subject  to  numerous 
restrictions. With some exceptions, we and our subsidiaries are prohibited from tying the provision of various products 
or services, such as extensions of credit, to other products or services offered by us, or our affiliates.

Bank regulations require bank holding companies and banks to maintain minimum capital ratios. For additional 

information, see “—Capital Adequacy” below.

Subsidiary Bank    

Heritage Bank is a Washington state-chartered commercial bank, the deposits of which are insured by the 
FDIC. Heritage Bank is subject to regulation by the FDIC and the Division of Banks of the Washington State Department 
of Financial Institutions ("Division").

Applicable Federal and State statutes and regulations which govern a bank’s operations relate to minimum 
capital  requirements,  required  reserves  against  deposits,  investments,  loans,  legal  lending  limits,  mergers  and 
consolidation, borrowings, issuance of securities, payment of dividends, establishment of branches, and other aspects 
of its operations, among other things. The Division and the FDIC also have authority to prohibit banks under their 
supervision from engaging in what they consider to be unsafe and unsound practices.

The  Bank  is  required  to  file  periodic  reports  with  the  FDIC  and  the  Division  and  is  subject  to  periodic 
examinations  and  evaluations  by  those  regulatory  authorities.  Based  upon  these  evaluations,  the  regulators  may 
revalue the assets of an institution and require that it establish specific reserves to compensate for the differences 
between the determined value and the book value of such assets. These examinations must be conducted at least 
every 12 months.

Dividends paid by the Bank provide substantially all of our cash flow. The FDIC and the Division also have the 
general authority to restrict capital distributions by the Bank, including dividends paid by the Bank to Heritage. Such 
restrictions  are  generally  tied  to  the  Bank’s  capital  levels  after  giving  effect  to  such  distributions.  For  additional 
information regarding the restrictions on the payment of dividends, see ”—Capital Adequacy" below and Item 5. Market 
For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters And Issuer Purchases Of Equity Securities herein.

Capital Adequacy    

The Federal Reserve and FDIC have issued substantially similar risk-based and leverage capital guidelines 
applicable to bank holding companies and banks. In addition, these regulatory agencies may from time to time require 
that a bank holding company or bank maintain capital above the minimum levels, based on its financial condition or 
actual or anticipated growth.

Effective  January  1,  2015  (with  some  changes  transitioned  into  full  effectiveness  over  several  years),  the 
Company and the Bank became subject to new capital regulations adopted by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC, 
which establish minimum required risk-based ratios for CET1 capital, Tier 1 and total capital, as well as a minimum 
leverage ratio risk-weightings of assets and certain other assets for purposes of the risk-based capital ratios; require 
an additional capital conservation buffer over the minimum required risk-based capital ratios; and define what qualifies 
as capital for purposes of meeting the capital requirements. These regulations implement the regulatory capital reforms 
required by the Dodd-Frank Act and the “Basel III” requirements.

Under these capital regulations, the minimum capital ratios are: (1) a CET1 capital ratio of 4.5% of risk-weighted 
assets; (2) a Tier 1 capital ratio of 6.0% of risk-weighted assets; (3) a total capital ratio of 8.0% of risk-weighted assets; 
and (4) a leverage ratio (the ratio of Tier 1 capital to average total adjusted assets) of 4.0%. CET1 generally consists 
of common stock; retained earnings; accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net unless an institution elects 
to exclude accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net from regulatory capital; and certain minority interests; 
all  subject  to  applicable  regulatory  adjustments  and  deductions.  Tier  1  capital  generally  consists  of  CET1  and 
noncumulative perpetual preferred stock. Tier 2 capital generally consists of other preferred stock and subordinated 
debt meeting certain conditions plus an amount of the allowance for loan and lease losses up to 1.25% of assets. Total 
capital is the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital.

In addition to the minimum CET1, Tier 1, leverage ratio and total capital ratios, the Company and the Bank 
must maintain a capital conservation buffer consisting of additional CET1 capital greater than 2.5% of risk-weighted 
assets  above  the  required  minimum  risk-based  capital  levels  in  order  to  avoid  limitations  on  paying  dividends, 
11

 
 
repurchasing shares, and paying discretionary bonuses. The new capital conservation buffer requirement began to 
be phased in on January 1, 2016, when requiring a buffer greater than 0.625% of risk-weighted assets, was required 
which amount increased 0.625% each year until the buffer requirement was fully implemented on January 1, 2019.

To be considered "well capitalized," a bank holding company must have, on a consolidated basis, a total risk-
based capital ratio of 10.0% or greater and a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6.0% or greater and must not be subject 
to an individual order, directive or agreement under which the Federal Reserve requires it to maintain a specific capital 
level. To be considered “well capitalized,” a depository institution must have a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 
8%, a total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10%, a CET1 capital ratio of at least 6.5% and a leverage ratio of at least 
5%  and  not  be  subject  to  an  individualized  order,  directive  or  agreement  under  which  its  primary  federal  banking 
regulator requires it to maintain a specific capital level. As of December 31, 2018, the Company and the Bank met the 
requirements to be "well capitalized" and the fully phased-in capital conservation buffer requirement.

  For  a  complete  description  of  the  Company’s  and  the  Bank's  required  and  actual  capital  levels  as  of 
December 31, 2018, see Note (22) Regulatory Capital Requirements of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
included in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

Prompt Corrective Action    

Federal  statutes  establish  a  supervisory  framework  for  FDIC-insured  institutions  based  on  five  capital 
categories:  well  capitalized,  adequately  capitalized,  undercapitalized,  significantly  undercapitalized  and  critically 
undercapitalized. An  institution’s  category  depends  upon  where  its  capital  levels  are  in  relation  to  relevant  capital 
measures. The well capitalized category is described above. An institution that is not well capitalized is subject to 
certain restrictions on brokered deposits, including restrictions on the rates it can offer on its deposits generally. To be 
considered adequately capitalized, an institution must have the minimum capital ratios described above. Any institution 
which is neither well capitalized nor adequately capitalized is considered undercapitalized.

Undercapitalized institutions are subject to certain prompt corrective action requirements, regulatory controls 
and restrictions which become more extensive as an institution becomes more severely undercapitalized. Failure by 
Heritage Bank to comply with applicable capital requirements would result in progressively more severe restrictions 
on its activities and lead to enforcement actions, including, but not limited to, the issuance of a capital directive to 
ensure  the  maintenance  of  required  capital  levels  and,  ultimately,  the  appointment  of  the  FDIC  as  receiver  or 
conservator. Banking regulators will take prompt corrective action with respect to depository institutions that do not 
meet minimum capital requirements. Additionally, approval of any regulatory application filed for their review may be 
dependent on compliance with capital requirements.

As of December 31, 2018, the Bank met the requirements to be classified as “well capitalized.” See Note (22) 
Regulatory Capital Requirements of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included  in Item 8. Financial 
Statements And Supplementary Data.

Classification of Loans    

Federal regulations require the Bank to periodically evaluate the risks inherent in its loan portfolio. In addition, 
the Division and the FDIC have the authority to identify adverse loans and, if appropriate, require them to be reclassified. 
There are three types of classified loans: Substandard, Doubtful, and Loss. Substandard loans have one or more 
defined weaknesses and are characterized by the distinct possibility that the institution will sustain some loss if the 
deficiencies  are  not  corrected.  Doubtful  loans  have  the  weaknesses  of  Substandard  loans,  with  additional 
characteristics  that  the  weaknesses  make  collection  or  liquidation  in  full  on  the  basis  of  currently  existing  facts, 
conditions, and values questionable. There is a high probability of some loss in loans classified as Doubtful. A loan 
classified as Loss is considered uncollectible and of such little value that continuance as a loan of the institution is not 
warranted. If a loan or a portion of the loan is classified as Loss, the institution must charge-off this amount. 

Deposit Insurance and Other FDIC Programs    

The deposits of the Bank are insured up to $250,000 per separately insured category by the Deposit Insurance 
Fund, which is administered by the FDIC. The FDIC is an independent federal agency that insures the deposits, up 
to  applicable  limits,  of  depository  institutions. As  insurer  of  the  Bank's  deposits,  the  FDIC  has  supervisory  and 
enforcement authority over Heritage Bank and this insurance is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States 
government. As insurer, the FDIC imposes deposit insurance premiums and is authorized to conduct examinations of 
and to require reporting by institutions insured by the FDIC. It also may prohibit any FDIC-insured institution from 
engaging in any activity determined by regulation or order to pose a serious risk to the institution and the Deposit 
Insurance Fund. The FDIC also has the authority to initiate enforcement actions and may terminate the deposit insurance 
if it determines that an institution has engaged in unsafe or unsound practices or is in an unsafe or unsound condition.

12

 
 
 
 
The Dodd-Frank Act broadened the base for FDIC insurance assessments. Assessments are now based on 
the average consolidated total assets less tangible equity capital of a financial institution. In addition, the Dodd-Frank 
Act raised set the minimum designated reserve ratio (“DRR”) of the Deposit Insurance Fund (the “DIF”) at 1.35%, 
required the FDIC to set a target DRR each year, and eliminated the requirement that the FDIC pay dividends to 
insured depository institutions when the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds. The FDIC has set the target DRR 
at 2.0% and adopted a plan to achieve that target ratio.  The FDIC has announced that the DRR surpassed 1.35% as 
of September 30, 2018. Currently, total base assessment rates range- from 1.5 to 40 basis points on an annualized 
basis, subject to certain adjustments. Under current regulations, the ranges of assessment rates are scheduled to 
decrease as the DRR increases in increments above 2.0%. No institution may pay a dividend if it is in default on its 
federal deposit insurance assessment.

Other Regulatory Developments    

Significant federal legislation affecting banking has been enacted in recent years. The following summarizes 

some of such recent significant federal legislation.

The Dodd-Frank Act. 

The Dodd-Frank-Act imposes restrictions and an expanded framework of regulatory 
oversight for financial institutions, including depository institutions and implements new capital regulations that we are 
subject to and that are discussed above under “—Capital Adequacy.”

The federal banking and securities regulators have issued final rules to implement Section 619 of the Dodd-
Frank Act, commonly known as the “Volcker Rule” pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act. Generally, subject to a transition 
period and certain exceptions, the Volcker Rule restricts insured depository institutions and their affiliated companies 
from engaging in short-term proprietary trading of certain securities, investing in funds with collateral comprised of any 
loans that are not registered with the SEC and from engaging in hedging activities that do not hedge a specific identified 
risk. In accordance with the transition period, the Volcker Rule prohibitions and restrictions apply to banking entities, 
including the Company and the Bank, unless an exception applies. We are continuously reviewing our investment 
portfolio to determine if changes to our investment strategies may be required in order to comply with the various 
provisions of the Volcker Rule.

In addition, among other changes, the Dodd-Frank Act requires public companies, like us, to (i) provide their 
shareholders with a non-binding vote (a) at least once every three years on the compensation paid to executive officers 
and (b) at least once every six years on whether they should have a “say on pay” vote every one, two or three years; 
(ii) have a separate, non-binding shareholder vote regarding golden parachutes for named executive officers when a 
shareholder  vote  takes  place  on  mergers,  acquisitions,  dispositions  or  other  transactions  that  would  trigger  the 
parachute payments; (iii) provide disclosure in annual proxy materials concerning the relationship between the executive 
compensation paid and the financial performance of the issuer; and (iv) amend Item 402 of Regulation S-K to require 
companies to disclose the ratio of the Chief Executive Officer's annual total compensation to the median annual total 
compensation of all other employees. 

Economic Growth Act. 

In May 2018 the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act 
(the “Economic Growth Act”), was enacted to modify or remove certain financial reform rules and regulations, including 
some of those implemented under the Dodd-Frank Act. While the Economic Growth Act maintains most of the regulatory 
structure established by the Dodd-Frank Act, it amends certain aspects of the regulatory framework for small depository 
institutions with assets of less than $10 billion and for large banks with assets of more than $50 billion. Many of these 
changes  could  result  in  meaningful  regulatory  changes  for  community  banks  such  as  the  Bank,  and  their  holding 
companies.

The Economic Growth Act, among other matters, expands the definition of qualified mortgages which may be 
held  by  a  financial  institution  and  simplifies  the  regulatory  capital  rules  for  financial  institutions  and  their  holding 
companies with total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion by instructing the federal banking regulators to establish 
a single “Community Bank Leverage Ratio” of between 8 and 10 percent. Any qualifying depository institution or its 
holding company that exceeds the “community bank leverage ratio” will be considered to have met generally applicable 
leverage and risk-based regulatory capital requirements and any qualifying depository institution that exceeds the new 
ratio will be considered to be “well capitalized” under the prompt corrective action rules. In addition, the Economic 
Growth Act includes regulatory relief for community banks regarding regulatory examination cycles, call reports, the 
Volcker Rule (proprietary trading prohibitions), mortgage disclosures and risk weights for certain high-risk commercial 
real estate loans.

It is difficult at this time to predict when or how any new standards under the Economic Growth Act will ultimately 
be applied to us or what specific impact the Act and the yet-to-be-written implementing rules and regulations will have 
on community banks.

13

 
 
 
CECL.  The Financial Accounting Standards Board has adopted a new accounting standard for U.S. Generally 
Accepted Accounting Principles that will be effective for us for our first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2019. 
This standard, referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss, or CECL, requires FDIC-insured institutions and their 
holding companies (banking organizations) to recognize credit losses expected over the life of certain financial assets. 
CECL covers a broader range of assets than the current method of recognizing credit losses and generally results in 
earlier recognition of credit losses. Upon adoption of CECL, a banking organization must record a one-time adjustment 
to its credit loss allowances as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption equal to the difference, if any, between 
the amount of credit loss allowances under the current methodology and the amount required under CECL.  For a 
banking organization, implementation of CECL is generally likely to reduce retained earnings, and to affect other items, 
in a manner that reduces its regulatory capital.

The federal banking regulators (the Federal Reserve, the OCC and the FDIC) have adopted a rule that gives 
a banking organization the option to phase in over a three-year period the day-one adverse effects of CECL on its 
regulatory capital.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act.   As a public company that files periodic reports with the SEC, under the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934, Heritage is subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ("Sarbanes-Oxley Act"), which addresses, 
among  other  issues,  corporate  governance,  auditing  and  accounting,  executive  compensation  and  enhanced  and 
timely disclosure of corporate information.

The  Sarbanes-Oxley  Act  represents  significant  federal  involvement  in  matters  traditionally  left  to  state 
regulatory  systems,  such  as  the  regulation  of  the  accounting  profession,  and  to  state  corporate  law,  such  as  the 
relationship between a board of directors and management and between a board of directors and its committees. Our 
policies and procedures have been updated to comply with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Website Access to Company Reports

We post publicly available reports required to be filed with the SEC on our website, www.hf-wa.com, as soon 
as reasonably practicable after filing such reports. The required reports are available free of charge through our website.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer and 
controller. We have posted the text of our Code of Ethics at www.hf-wa.com in the section titled Overview: Governance 
Documents. Any waivers of the code of ethics will be publicly disclosed to shareholders.

Competition

We compete for loans and deposits with other commercial banks, credit unions, mortgage bankers, and other 
providers of financial services, including finance companies, mutual funds, insurance companies, and more recently 
with financial technology (or "FinTech") companies that rely on technology to provide financial services. Many of our 
competitors have substantially greater resources than we do. Particularly in times of high or rising interest rates, we 
also face significant competition for investors’ funds from short-term money market securities and other corporate and 
government securities.

We compete for loans principally through the range and quality of the services we provide, interest rates and 
loan fees, and the locations of our Bank's branches. We actively solicit deposit-related clients and compete for deposits 
by offering depositors a variety of savings accounts, checking accounts, cash management and other services.

Employees

We had 859 full-time equivalent employees at December 31, 2018. We believe that employees play a vital 
role in the success of a service company. Employees are provided with a variety of benefits such as medical, vision, 
dental and life insurance, a retirement plan, and paid vacations and sick leave. None of our employees are covered 
by a collective bargaining agreement.

14

 
 
Executive Officers

The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the executive officers of the Company at 

December 31, 2018.

Name

Brian L. Vance

Jeffrey J. Deuel

Donald J. Hinson

David A. Spurling

Bryan McDonald

Age as of
December 31,
2018

Position

64 Chief Executive Officer of Heritage
60 President of Heritage; President and
Chief Executive Officer of
Heritage Bank

57 Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer of Heritage and
Heritage Bank

65 Executive Vice President and Chief

Credit Officer of Heritage and
Heritage Bank

47 Executive Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer of Heritage and
Heritage Bank

Has Served the 
Company or 
Heritage Bank 
Since

1996

2010

2005

2001

2014

The business experience of each executive officer is set forth below.

Brian L. Vance is the Chief Executive Officer of Heritage. During 2018, Mr. Vance announced his intent to 
retire on July 1, 2019. Upon his retirement, Mr. Vance will assume the role of Executive Board Chair of Heritage and 
oversee board activities. Mr. Vance was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Heritage and Heritage 
Bank in 2006. In 2003, Mr. Vance was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank and in 1998, 
Mr. Vance was named President and Chief Operating Officer of Heritage Bank. Mr. Vance joined Heritage Bank in 
1996 as its Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer. Prior to joining Heritage Bank, Mr. Vance was employed 
for 24 years with West One Bank, a bank with offices in Idaho, Utah, Oregon and Washington. Prior to leaving West 
One, he was Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of Banking Operations for the south Puget Sound region.

Jeffrey J. Deuel is the President of Heritage and President and Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank. Mr. 
Deuel was appointed President of Heritage and President and Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank in July 2018. 
Mr. Deuel was previously promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer of Heritage Bank and Executive Vice 
President of Heritage in 2012, Chief Operating Officer of Heritage Bank and Executive Vice President of the Company 
in 2010, and joined Heritage Bank in February 2010 as Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategies. Mr. Deuel 
came to the Company with 28 years of banking experience and most recently held the position of Executive Vice 
President Commercial Operations with JPMorgan Chase, formerly Washington Mutual. Prior to joining Washington 
Mutual, Mr. Deuel was based in Philadelphia where he worked for Bank United, First Union Bank, CoreStates Bank, 
and First Pennsylvania Bank. During his career Mr. Deuel held a variety of leadership positions in commercial banking 
including lending, retail and support services, corporate strategies, credit administration, and portfolio management. 
He earned his Bachelor’s degree at Gettysburg College.

Donald J. Hinson became Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Heritage and Heritage Bank 
in September 2012. In 2007, Mr. Hinson was appointed to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Heritage 
and Heritage Bank. Mr. Hinson joined Heritage Bank in 2005 as Vice President and Controller. Prior to that, he served 
in the banking audit practice of local and national accounting firms of Knight, Vale and Gregory and RSM McGladrey 
from 1994 to 2005. Mr. Hinson holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Accounting from Central Washington University 
and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.

David A. Spurling became Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of Heritage and Heritage Bank 
in January 2014. Prior to that, he was the Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of Heritage Bank beginning 
in 2007.  Mr. Spurling joined Heritage Bank in 2001 as a commercial lender, followed by a role as a commercial team 
leader. He began his banking career as a middle market lender at Seafirst Bank, followed by positions as a commercial 
lender at Bank of America in Small Business Banking and as a regional manager for Bank of America’s government-
guaranteed lending division. Mr. Spurling holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of 
Washington and is Credit Risk Certified by the Risk Management Association.

Bryan McDonald was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Heritage Bank in 
July  of  2018.  Mr.  McDonald  became  Executive  Vice  President  and  Chief  Lending  Officer  of  Heritage  Bank  upon 

15

completion of the Washington Banking Merger effective on May 1, 2014. Mr. McDonald had served as President and 
Chief Executive Officer of Whidbey Island Bank since January 1, 2012. Mr. McDonald joined Whidbey Island Bank in 
2006 as Commercial Banking Manager and he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Whidbey 
Island Bank from April 1, 2010 until his promotion to Executive Vice President on August 26, 2010. Mr. McDonald has 
been  serving  in  the  banking  industry  since  1994,  including  regional  commercial  lending  management  roles  with 
Washington  Mutual  and  Peoples  Bank.  Mr.  McDonald  holds  a  Bachelor's  and  Master’s  Degree  in  Business 
Administration from Washington State University.

ITEM 1A.  

RISK FACTORS

We assume and manage a certain degree of risk in order to conduct our business strategy. The following 
provides a discussion of certain risks that management believes are specific to our business. This discussion should 
not be viewed as an all-inclusive list or in any particular order.

Our strategy of pursuing acquisitions and de novo branching exposes us to financial and operational risks 
that could adversely affect us.

We are pursuing a strategy of supplementing organic growth by acquiring other financial institutions or their 
businesses  that  we  believe  will  help  us  fulfill  our  strategic  objectives  and  enhance  our  earnings.  There  are  risks 
associated with this strategy, however, including the following:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

we may be exposed to potential asset quality issues or unknown or contingent liabilities of the banks, 
businesses, assets and liabilities we acquire. If these issues or liabilities exceed our estimates, our 
results of operations and financial condition may be materially negatively affected;

higher than expected deposit attrition;

potential diversion of our management's time and attention;

prices at which acquisitions are made can fluctuate with market conditions. We have experienced 
times  during  which  acquisitions  could  not  be  made  in  specific  markets  at  prices  we  considered 
acceptable and expect that we may continue to experience this condition in the future;

the acquisition of other entities generally requires integration of systems, procedures and personnel 
of  the  acquired  entity  into  our  company  to  make  the  transaction  economically  successful.  This 
integration process is complicated and time consuming and can also be disruptive to the customers 
of the acquired business. If the integration process is not conducted successfully and with minimal 
effect on the acquired business and its customers, we may not realize the anticipated economic benefits 
of an acquisition within the expected time frame, and we may lose customers or employees of the 
acquired business. We may also experience greater than anticipated customer losses even if the 
integration process is successful. These risks may be present in our Puget Sound Merger and Premier 
Merger that were completed during the first and third quarters of 2018, respectively;

to finance an acquisition, we may borrow funds, thereby increasing our leverage and diminishing our 
liquidity, or raise additional capital, which could dilute the interests of our existing shareholders;

from 2006 through 2018, we completed eight acquisitions or mergers, including one acquisition in 
2006,  two  acquisitions  during  2010,  two  acquisitions  during  2013,  one  merger  in  2014  and  two 
acquisitions in 2018 that enhanced our rate of growth. We may not be able to continue to sustain our 
past rate of growth or to grow at all in the future;

we expect our net income will increase following our acquisitions; however, we also expect our general 
and administrative expenses and consequently our efficiency ratios will also increase. Ultimately, we 
would  expect  our  efficiency  ratio  to  improve;  however,  if  we  are  not  successful  in  our  integration 
process,  this  may  not  occur,  and  our  acquisitions  or  branching  activities  may  not  be  accretive  to 
earnings in the short or long-term; and

to the extent our costs of an acquisition exceed the fair value of the net assets acquired, the acquisition 
will generate goodwill. As discussed below under “-If the goodwill we have recorded in connection 
with acquisitions becomes impaired, our earnings and capital could be reduced,” we are required to 
assess our goodwill for impairment at least annually, and any goodwill impairment charge could have 
a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

16

Our business strategy includes significant growth plans, and our financial condition and results of operations 
could be negatively affected if we are not successful in executing this strategy or if we fail to grow or manage 
our growth effectively.

We  intend  to  pursue  a  growth  strategy  for  our  business.  We  regularly  evaluate  potential  acquisitions  and 
expansion opportunities. If appropriate opportunities present themselves, we expect to engage in selected acquisitions 
of financial institutions in the future, including branch acquisitions, or other business growth initiatives or undertakings. 
There can be no assurance that we will successfully identify appropriate opportunities, that we will be able to negotiate 
or finance such activities or that such activities, if undertaken, will be successful.

Our growth initiatives may require us to recruit experienced personnel to assist in such initiatives, which will 
increase our compensation costs. In addition, the failure to identify and retain such personnel would place significant 
limitations on our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy. To the extent we expand our lending beyond our 
current market areas, we also could incur additional risk related to those new market areas. We may not be able to 
expand our market presence in our existing market areas or successfully enter new markets.

If we do not successfully execute our acquisition growth plan, it could adversely affect our business, financial 
condition, results of operations, reputation and growth prospects. In addition, if we were to conclude that the value of 
an acquired business had decreased and that the related goodwill had been impaired, that conclusion would result in 
an impairment of goodwill charge to us, which would adversely affect our results of operations. While we believe we 
have the executive management resources and internal systems in place to successfully manage our future growth, 
there can be no assurance that suitable growth opportunities will be available or that we will successfully manage our 
growth. See below “-If the goodwill we have recorded in connection with acquisitions becomes impaired, our earnings 
and capital could be reduced” and “-Our strategy of pursuing acquisitions and de novo branching exposes us to financial 
and operational risks that could adversely affect us” for additional risks related to our acquisition strategy.

The required accounting treatment of purchased loans we acquire through acquisitions could result in higher 
net interest margins and interest income in current periods and lower net interest margins and interest income 
in future periods.

Under generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), we are required to record purchased loans acquired 
through acquisitions at fair value, which may differ from the outstanding balance of such loans. Estimating the fair 
value  of  such  loans  requires  management  to  make  estimates  based  on  available  information  and  facts  and 
circumstances on the acquisition date. Actual performance could differ from management’s initial estimates. If these 
loans  outperform  our  original  fair  value  estimates,  the  difference  between  our  original  estimate  and  the  actual 
performance of the loan (the “discount”) is accreted into net interest income. Thus, our net interest margins may initially 
increase due to the discount accretion. This accretable yield may change due to changes in expected timing and 
amount of future cash flows. The yields on our loans could decline as our acquired loan portfolio pays down or matures, 
and we expect downward pressure on our interest income to the extent that the runoff on our acquired loan portfolio 
is not replaced with comparable high-yielding loans. This could result in higher net interest margins and interest income 
in current periods and lower net interest rate margins and lower interest income in future periods.

New or changing tax, accounting, and regulatory rules and interpretations could significantly impact strategic 
initiatives, results of operations, cash flows, and financial condition.

The financial services industry is extensively regulated. Federal and state banking regulations are designed 
primarily to protect the deposit insurance funds and consumers, not to benefit our stockholders. These regulations 
may  sometimes  impose  significant  limitations  on  operations.  Regulatory  authorities  have  extensive  discretion  in 
connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities, including the imposition of restrictions on the operation 
of an institution, the classification of assets by the institution and adequacy of an institution's allowance for loan losses. 
These bank regulators also have the ability to impose conditions in the approval of merger and acquisition transactions.

Our loan portfolio is concentrated in loans with a higher risk of loss.

Repayment of our commercial business loans, consisting of commercial and industrial loans as well as owner-
occupied and non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, is often dependent on the cash flows of the borrower, 
which may be unpredictable, and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. We offer different types 
of commercial business loans to a variety of businesses with a focus on real estate related industries and businesses 
in agricultural, healthcare, legal, and other professions. The types of commercial business loans offered are lines of 
credit, term equipment financing and term real estate loans. We also originate loans that are guaranteed by the SBA, 
and are a “preferred lender” of the SBA. Commercial business lending involves risks that are different from those 
associated with real estate lending. Our commercial business loans are primarily made based on our assessment of 
the cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. The borrower's 
cash flow may be unpredictable, and collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Although these commercial 

17

business loans are often collateralized by equipment, inventory, accounts receivable or other business assets, the 
liquidation of collateral in the event of default is often an insufficient source of repayment because accounts receivable 
may be uncollectible and inventories may be obsolete or of limited use, among other things. Accordingly, the repayment 
of commercial business loans depends primarily on the cash flow and creditworthiness of the borrower and secondarily 
on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. In addition, as part of our commercial business lending activities, 
we originate agricultural loans. Agricultural lending involves a greater degree of risk. Payments on agricultural loans 
are typically dependent on the profitable operation or management of the related farm property. The success of the 
farm may be affected by many factors outside the control of the borrower, including adverse weather conditions that 
prevent the planting of a crop or limit crop yields (such as hail, drought and floods), loss of livestock due to disease 
or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products (both domestically and internationally), changes in 
the economy (such as tariffs) and the impact of government regulations (including changes in price supports, subsidies 
and environmental regulations). In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose 
injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the farm. If the cash flow from a farming operation 
is diminished, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired.

Consequently, agricultural loans may involve a greater degree of risk than other types of loans, particularly in 
the case of loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as farm equipment (some of which 
is highly specialized with a limited or no market for resale), or assets such as livestock or crops. In such cases, any 
repossessed collateral for a defaulted agricultural operating loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment 
of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation or because the 
assessed value of the collateral exceeds the eventual realization value.

At December 31, 2018, our commercial business loans totaled $2.94 billion, or approximately 80.4% of our 
total loan portfolio. Approximately $12.6 million, or 0.4%, of our commercial business loans were nonperforming at 
December 31, 2018. The majority of the nonperforming commercial business loans were commercial and industrial 
loans. Our agricultural lending totaled $94.3 million, or 2.6% of our total loan portfolio, and 3.2% of our commercial 
business loans.

Our non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans, which include five or more family residential real estate 
loans, involve higher principal amounts than other loans and repayment of these loans may be dependent on factors 
outside our control or the control of our borrowers. We originate commercial and five or more family residential real 
estate loans for individuals and businesses for various purposes, which are secured by commercial properties. These 
loans typically involve higher principal amounts than other types of loans, and repayment is dependent upon income 
generated, or expected to be generated, by the property securing the loan in amounts sufficient to cover operating 
expenses and debt service, which may be adversely affected by changes in the economy or local market conditions. 
For example, if the cash flow from the borrower’s project is reduced as a result of leases not being obtained or renewed, 
the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired.

Commercial and five or more family residential real estate loans also expose us to greater credit risk than 
loans secured by one-to-four family residential real estate because the collateral securing these loans typically cannot 
be sold as easily as one-to-four family residential real estate. In addition, many of our commercial and five or more 
family residential real estate loans are not fully amortizing and contain large balloon payments upon maturity. Such 
balloon payments may require the borrower to either sell or refinance the underlying property in order to make the 
payment, which may increase the risk of default or non-payment. If we foreclose on a commercial and five or more 
family residential real estate loan, our holding period for the collateral typically is longer than for one-to-four family 
residential loans because there are fewer potential purchasers of the collateral. Additionally, commercial and five or 
more family residential real estate loans generally have relatively large balances to single borrowers or related groups 
of borrowers. Accordingly, if we make any errors in judgment regarding the collectability of our commercial and five or 
more family residential real estate loans, any resulting charge-offs may be larger on a per loan basis than those incurred 
with our residential or consumer loan portfolios.

As of December 31, 2018, our non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans totaled $1.30 billion, or 35.7%
of our total loan portfolio. Approximately $1.7 million, or 0.1%, of our non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans 
were nonperforming at December 31, 2018.

Our real estate construction and land development loans are based upon estimates of costs and the related 
value  associated  with  the  completed  project.  These  estimates  may  be  inaccurate. Construction  lending  involves 
additional risks when compared with permanent residential lending because funds are advanced upon the collateral 
for the project based on an estimate of costs that will produce a future value at completion. Because of the uncertainties 
inherent  in  estimating  construction  costs,  as  well  as  the  market  value  of  the  complete  project  and  the  effects  of 
governmental  regulation  on  real  property,  it  is  relatively  difficult  to  evaluate  accurately  the  total  funds  required  to 
complete a project and the completed project loan-to-value ratio. Changes in demand for new housing and higher than 

18

anticipated building costs may cause actual results to vary significantly from those estimated. For these reasons, this 
type of lending also typically involves higher loan principal amounts and may be concentrated with a small number of 
builders. A downturn in housing, or the real estate market, could increase delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures, 
and significantly impair the value of our collateral and our ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure. Some of the 
builders we deal with have more than one loan outstanding with us. Consequently, an adverse development with 
respect to one loan or one credit relationship can expose us to a significantly greater risk of loss. In addition, during 
the term of some of our construction loans, no payment from the borrower is required since the accumulated interest 
is added to the principal of the loan through an interest reserve. As a result, these loans often involve the disbursement 
of funds with repayment substantially dependent on the success of the ultimate project and the ability of the borrower 
to sell or lease the property or obtain permanent take-out financing, rather than the ability of the borrower or guarantor 
to repay principal and interest. If our appraisal of the value of a completed project proves to be overstated, we may 
have inadequate security for the repayment of the loan upon completion of construction of the project and may incur 
a loss. Because construction loans require active monitoring of the building process, including cost comparisons and 
on-site inspections, these loans are more difficult and more costly to monitor. Increases in market rates of interest may 
have  a  more  pronounced  effect  on  construction  loans  by  rapidly  increasing  the  end-purchaser's  borrowing  costs, 
thereby possibly reducing the homeowner's ability to finance the home upon completion or the overall demand for the 
project. Properties under construction are often difficult to sell and typically must be completed in order to be successfully 
sold which also complicates the process of working our problem construction loans. This may require us to advance 
additional funds and/or contract with another builder to complete construction and assume the market risk of selling 
the project at a future market price, which may or may not enable us to fully recover unpaid loan funds and associated 
construction and liquidation costs. Furthermore, in the case of speculative construction loans, there is the added risk 
associated with identifying an end-purchaser for the finished project. Land development loans also pose additional 
risk because of the lack of income being produced by the property and potential illiquid nature of the collateral. These 
risks can be significantly impacted by supply and demand conditions.

As of December 31, 2018, our real estate construction and land development loans totaled $215.5 million, or 
5.9% of our total loan portfolio. Of these loans, $102.7 million, or 2.8% of our total loan portfolio, were one-to-four 
family residential construction related and $112.7 million, or 3.1% of our total loan portfolio, were five or more family 
residential and commercial property construction related. Approximately $899,000, or 0.4%, of our total construction 
and land development loans were nonperforming at December 31, 2018.

Our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb losses in our loan portfolio.

Lending money is a substantial part of our business. Every loan carries a certain risk that it will not be repaid 
in accordance with its terms or that any underlying collateral will not be sufficient to assure repayment. This risk is 
affected by, among other things:

• 
• 

• 
• 
• 

the cash flow of the borrower, guarantors and/or the project being financed;
the changes and uncertainties as to the future value of the collateral, in the case of a collateralized 
loan;
the character and creditworthiness of a particular borrower or guarantor;
changes in economic and industry conditions; and
the duration of the loan.

We maintain an allowance for loan losses, which is a reserve established through a provision for loan losses 
charged against earnings, which we believe is appropriate to absorb probable incurred losses in our loan portfolio. 
The  amount  of  this  allowance  is  determined  by  our  management  through  a  periodic  comprehensive  review  and 
consideration of several factors, including, but not limited to:

• 
• 

• 

our general reserve, based on our historical default and loss experience;
our  specific  reserve,  based  on  our  evaluation  of  impaired  loans  and  their  underlying  collateral  or 
discounted cash flows; and
current  macroeconomic  factors,  regulatory  requirements  and  management’s  expectation  of  future 
events.

The determination of the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses inherently involves a high degree 
of subjectivity and requires us to make significant estimates of current credit risks and future trends, all of which may 
undergo material changes. If our estimates are incorrect, the allowance for loan losses may not be sufficient to cover 
losses inherent in our loan portfolio, resulting in the need for increases in our allowance for loan losses through the 
provision for losses on loans which is charged against income. Management also recognizes that significant new 
growth in loan portfolios, new loan products and the refinancing of existing loans can result in portfolios comprised of 
unseasoned loans that may not perform in a historical or projected manner and will increase the risk that our allowance 
may be insufficient to absorb losses without significant additional provisions.

19

Deterioration  in  economic  conditions  affecting  borrowers,  new  information  regarding  existing  loans, 
identification of additional problem loans and other factors, both within and outside of our control, may require an 
increase in the allowance for loan losses. If current conditions in the housing and real estate markets weaken, we 
expect we will experience increased delinquencies and credit losses. In addition, bank regulatory agencies periodically 
review our allowance for loan losses and may require an increase in the provision for loan losses or the recognition 
of further loan charge-offs, based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of their examination. 
In addition, if charge-offs in future periods exceed the allowance for loan losses we will need additional provisions to 
increase the allowance for loan losses.

The FASB has adopted a new accounting standard referred to as Current Expected Credit Loss ("CECL") 
which will require financial institutions to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans and 
recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for credit losses. This will change the current method of providing 
allowances for credit losses that are probable, which may require us to increase our allowance for loan losses, and 
may greatly increase the types of data we would need to collect and review to determine the appropriate level of the 
allowance for credit losses. This accounting pronouncement is expected to be applicable to us effective for our fiscal 
year beginning January 1, 2020. We are evaluating the impact the CECL accounting model will have on our accounting, 
but expect to recognize a one-time cumulative-effect adjustment to the allowance for loan losses as of the beginning 
of the first reporting period in which the new standard is effective. 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. The federal banking regulators, including the Federal Reserve and the FDIC, have adopted a rule that 
gives a banking organization the option to phase in over a three-year period the day-one adverse effects of CECL on 
its regulatory capital. Any increases in the allowance for loan losses due to the one-time cumulative-effect adjustment 
will result in a decrease in net income and possibly capital, and may have a material adverse effect on our financial 
condition and results of operations.

If our allowance for loan losses is not sufficient to cover actual loan losses our earnings could decrease.

For the year ended December 31, 2018 we recorded a provision for loan losses of $5.1 million compared to 
$4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. We recorded net charge-offs of loans of $2.2 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2018 compared to $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. At December 31, 2018
our total nonperforming loans were $13.7 million, or 0.37% of loans receivable, net, compared to $10.7 million or 0.38%
of loans receivable, net, at December 31, 2017. Generally, our nonperforming loans reflect operating difficulties of 
individual borrowers, which may be the result of current economic conditions. If economic conditions deteriorate, we 
expect that we could experience significantly higher delinquencies and loan charge-offs. As a result, we may be required 
to  make  further  increases  in  our  provision  for  loan  losses  in  the  future,  which  could  adversely  affect  our  financial 
condition and results of operations, perhaps materially.

General economic conditions tend to impact loan segments at varying degrees. At December 31, 2018, our 
commercial and industrial loan portfolio had the greatest percentage of nonaccrual loans of 48.4% as the borrowers 
are primarily business owners whose business results are influenced by economic conditions as well as impact of the 
types of collateral generally securing these loans. Our owner-occupied commercial real estate loans and non-owner 
occupied commercial real estate loans portfolio, which contained 30.7% and 12.5%, respectively, of our nonaccrual 
loans at December 31, 2018, generally have a large percentage of nonperforming loans because of the same reasons 
as the commercial and industrial loan portfolio noted above.

The current economic condition in the market areas we serve may adversely impact our earnings and could 
increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio.

Substantially all of our loans are to businesses and individuals in the states of Washington and Oregon. A 
decline in the economies of our primary market areas of the Pacific Northwest in which we operate could have a 
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Weakness in the 
global economy has adversely affected many businesses operating in our markets that are dependent upon international 
trade and it is not known how the recent changes in tariffs being imposed on international trade may also affect these 
businesses.

While real estate values and unemployment rates have improved, a deterioration in economic conditions in 
our market areas of the Pacific Northwest could result in the following consequences, any of which could have a 
materially adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

loan delinquencies, problem assets and foreclosures may increase;
we may increase our allowance for loan losses;
the sale of foreclosed assets may be slow;
our provision for loan losses may increase;
demand for our products and services may decline, possibly resulting in a decrease in our total loans;

20

• 

• 

• 

collateral for loans made may decline further in value, exposing us to increased risk of loss on existing 
loans;
the net worth and liquidity of loan guarantors may decline, impairing their ability to honor commitments 
to us; and
the amount of our deposits may decrease and the composition of our deposits may be adversely 
affected.

A decline in local economic conditions may have a greater effect on our earnings and capital than on the 
earnings and capital of larger financial institutions whose real estate loans are geographically diverse. Many of the 
loans in our portfolio are secured by real estate. Deterioration in the real estate markets where collateral for a mortgage 
loan is located could negatively affect the borrower’s ability to repay the loan and the value of the collateral securing 
the loan. Real estate values are affected by various other factors, including changes in general or regional economic 
conditions, governmental rules or policies and natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding.

Adverse changes in the regional and general economy could reduce our growth rate, impair our ability to 

collect loans and generally have a negative effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

If the goodwill we have recorded in connection with acquisitions becomes impaired, our earnings and capital 
could be reduced.

Accounting standards require that we account for acquisitions using the purchase method of accounting. Under 
purchase accounting, if the purchase price of an acquired company exceeds the fair value of its net assets, the excess 
is carried on the acquirer’s balance sheet as goodwill. In accordance with GAAP, our goodwill is evaluated for impairment 
on an annual  basis or  more frequently  if events  or circumstances indicate  that a potential impairment  exists. The 
evaluation is based on a variety of factors, including the quoted price of our common stock, market prices of common 
stock of other banking organizations, common stock trading multiples, discounted cash flows, and data from comparable 
acquisitions. At December 31, 2018, we had goodwill with a carrying amount of $240.9 million.

Declines in our stock price or a prolonged weakness in the operating environment of the financial services 
industry may result in a future impairment charge. Any such impairment charge could have a material adverse effect 
on our operating results and financial condition.

Fluctuating interest rates can adversely affect our profitability.

Our profitability is dependent to a large extent upon net interest income, which is the difference (or “spread”) 
between the interest earned on loans, securities and other interest earning assets and the interest paid on deposits, 
borrowings, and other interest bearing liabilities. Because of the differences in maturities and repricing characteristics 
of  our  interest  earning  assets  and  interest  bearing  liabilities,  changes  in  interest  rates  do  not  produce  equivalent 
changes in interest income earned on interest earning assets and interest paid on interest bearing liabilities.

We principally manage interest rate risk by managing our volume and mix of our earning assets and funding 
liabilities. Changes in monetary policy, including changes in interest rates, could influence not only the interest we 
receive on loans and investments and the amount of interest we pay on deposits and borrowings, but these changes 
could also affect (i) our ability to originate and/or sell loans and obtain deposits, (ii) the fair value of our financial assets 
and liabilities, which could negatively impact shareholders’ equity, and our ability to realize gains from the sale of such 
assets, (iii) our ability to obtain and retain deposits in competition with other available investment alternatives, (iv) the 
ability of our borrowers to repay adjustable or variable rate loans, and (v) the average duration of our investment 
securities portfolio and other interest-earning assets. In a changing interest rate environment, we may not be able to 
manage this risk effectively. If we are unable to manage interest rate risk effectively, our business, financial condition 
and results of operations could be materially affected.

Interest rates are highly sensitive to many factors that are beyond our control, including general economic 
conditions and policies of various governmental and regulatory agencies and, in particular, the Federal Reserve. In 
an attempt to help the overall economy, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates low through its targeted Fed Funds 
rate. The Federal Reserve has steadily increased the targeted Fed Funds rate over the last three fiscal years to 2.50% 
at December 31, 2018. The Federal Reserve may make additional increases in interest rates during 2019 subject to 
economic conditions. As the Federal Reserve increases the targeted federal funds rates, overall interest rates will 
likely rise, which may negatively impact both the housing markets by reducing refinancing activity and new home 
purchases and the U.S. economic recovery.

A sustained increase in market interest rates could adversely affect our earnings. As a result of the exceptionally 
low interest rate environment, an increasing percentage of our deposits have been comprised of deposits bearing no 
or a relatively low rate of interest and having a shorter duration than our assets. We would incur a higher cost of funds 
to retain these deposits in a rising interest rate environment. If the interest rates paid on deposits and other borrowings 

21

increase at a faster rate than the interest rates received on loans and other investments, our net interest income, and 
therefore earnings, could be adversely affected.

Changes in interest rates also affect the value of our interest-earning assets and in particular our securities 
portfolio. Generally, the fair value of fixed-rate securities fluctuates inversely with changes in interest rates. Unrealized 
gains and losses on securities available for sale are reported as a separate component of equity, net of tax. Decreases 
in the fair value of securities available for sale resulting from increases in interest rates could have an adverse effect 
on stockholders’ equity.

Although  management  believes  it  has implemented  effective  asset and liability  management  strategies  to 
reduce the potential effects of changes in interest rates on our results of operations, any substantial, unexpected or 
prolonged change in market interest rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results 
of operations. Also, our interest rate risk modeling techniques and assumptions likely may not fully predict or capture 
the impact of actual interest rate changes on our balance sheet.

Uncertainty relating to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") calculation process and potential phasing 
out of LIBOR may adversely affect our results of operations.

On July 27, 2017, the Chief Executive of the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates 
LIBOR, announced that it intends to stop persuading or compelling banks to submit rates for the calibration of LIBOR 
to the administrator of LIBOR after 2021. The announcement indicates that the continuation of LIBOR on the current 
basis cannot and will not be guaranteed after 2021. It is impossible to predict whether and to what extent banks will 
continue to provide LIBOR submissions to the administrator of LIBOR or whether any additional reforms to LIBOR 
may be enacted in the United Kingdom or elsewhere. At this time, no consensus exists as to what rate or rates may 
become acceptable alternatives to LIBOR and it is impossible to predict the effect of any such alternatives on the value 
of  LIBOR-based  securities  and  variable  rate  loans,  subordinated  debentures,  or  other  securities  or  financial 
arrangements, given LIBOR's role in determining market interest rates globally. Uncertainty as to the nature of alternative 
reference rates and as to potential changes or other reforms to LIBOR may adversely affect LIBOR rates and the value 
of LIBOR-based loans, and to a lesser extent securities in our portfolio, and may impact the availability and cost of 
hedging instruments and borrowings, including the rates we pay on our subordinated debentures and trust preferred 
securities. If LIBOR rates are no longer available, and we are required to implement substitute indices for the calculation 
of interest rates under our loan agreements with our borrowers or our existing borrowings, we may incur significant 
expenses in effecting the transition, and may be subject to disputes or litigation with customers and creditors over the 
appropriateness or comparability to LIBOR of the substitute indices, which could have an adverse effect on our results 
of operations.

Our securities portfolio may be negatively impacted by fluctuations in market value and interest rates.

Our securities portfolio may be impacted by fluctuations in market value, potentially reducing accumulated 
other comprehensive income (loss), net and/or earnings. Fluctuations in market value may be caused by changes in 
market interest rates, rating agency actions in respect of the securities, defaults by the issuer or with respect to the 
underlying securities, lower market prices for securities and limited investor demand. Our securities portfolio is evaluated 
for  other-than-temporary  impairment.  If  this  evaluation  shows  impairment  to  the  actual  or  projected  cash  flows 
associated with one or more securities, a potential loss to earnings may occur. Changes in interest rates can also have 
an adverse effect on our financial condition, as our available-for-sale securities are reported at their estimated fair 
value, and therefore are impacted by fluctuations in interest rates. We increase or decrease our shareholders' equity 
by the amount of change in the estimated fair value of the available-for-sale securities, net of taxes. There can be no 
assurance that the declines in market value will not result in other-than-temporary impairments of these assets, which 
would lead to accounting charges that could have a material adverse effect on our net income and capital levels.

Decreased volumes and lower gains on sales of mortgage loans sold could adversely impact our noninterest 
income.

We originate and sell one-to-four family residential loans. Our mortgage banking income is a significant portion 
of our noninterest income. We generate gains on the sale of one-to-four family residential loans pursuant to programs 
currently  offered  by  the  Federal  Home  Loan  Mortgage  Corporation  ("Freddie  Mac")  and  other  secondary  market 
purchasers. Any future changes in their purchase programs, our eligibility to participate in such programs, the criteria 
for loans to be accepted or laws that significantly affect the activity of such entities could, in turn, materially adversely 
affect our results of operations. Further, in a rising or higher interest rate environment, our originations of mortgage 
loans may decrease, resulting in fewer loans that are available to be sold to investors. This would result in a decrease 
in  mortgage  banking  revenues  and  a  corresponding  decrease  in  noninterest  income.  In  addition,  our  results  of 
operations are affected by the amount of noninterest expense associated with mortgage banking activities, such as 
salaries and employee benefits, occupancy, equipment and data processing expense and other operating costs. During 

22

periods of reduced loan demand, our results of operations may be adversely affected to the extent that we are unable 
to reduce expenses commensurate with the decline in loan originations.

Liquidity risk could impair our ability to fund operations and jeopardize our financial condition, growth and 
prospects.

Liquidity is essential to our business. We rely on a number of different sources in order to meet our potential 
liquidity demands. We require sufficient liquidity to meet customer loan requests, customer deposit maturities and 
withdrawals, payments on our debt obligations as they come due and other cash commitments under both normal 
operating conditions and other unpredictable circumstances, including events causing industry or general financial 
market stress. A tightening of the credit markets and the inability to obtain adequate funding may negatively affect our 
liquidity, asset growth and, consequently, our earnings capability and capital levels. In addition to any deposit growth, 
and the sale of loans or investment securities, maturity of investment securities and loan payments, we rely from time 
to time on advances from the FHLB of Des Moines, and certain other wholesale funding sources to meet liquidity 
demands. Our liquidity position could be significantly constrained if we were unable to access funds from the FHLB 
of Des Moines or other wholesale funding sources. Factors that could detrimentally impact our access to liquidity 
sources include a decrease in the level of our business activity as a result of a downturn in the markets in which our 
loans are concentrated, negative operating results, or adverse regulatory action against us. Our ability to borrow could 
also be impaired by factors that are not specific to us, such as a disruption in the financial markets or negative views 
and expectations about the prospects for the financial services industry or deterioration in credit markets. Any decline 
in available funding in amounts adequate to finance our activities or on terms which are acceptable could adversely 
impact our ability to originate loans, invest in securities, meet our expenses, or fulfill obligations such as repaying our 
borrowings or meeting deposit withdrawal demands, any of which could, in turn, have a material adverse effect on our 
business, financial condition and results of operations.

Additionally, collateralized public funds are bank deposits of state and local municipalities. These deposits 
are required to be secured by certain investment grade securities to ensure repayment, which on the one hand tends 
to reduce our contingent liquidity risk by making these funds somewhat less credit sensitive, but on the other hand 
reduces standby liquidity by restricting the potential liquidity of the pledged collateral.  Although these funds historically 
have been a relatively stable source of funds for us, availability depends on the individual municipality's fiscal policies 
and cash flow needs.

Our growth or future losses may require us to raise additional capital in the future, but that capital may not 
be available when it is needed or the cost of that capital may be very high; further, the resulting dilution of 
our equity may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

We are required by federal and state regulatory authorities to maintain adequate levels of capital to support 
our operations. At some point we may need to raise additional capital to support our continued internal growth and 
growth through acquisitions or be required by our regulators to increase our capital resources. Our ability to raise 
additional capital, however, will depend on conditions in the capital markets at that time, which are outside our control, 
and on our financial condition and performance. If we are able to raise capital it may not be on terms that are acceptable 
to us. If we cannot raise additional capital when needed, our ability to further expand our operations through internal 
growth and acquisitions could be materially impaired and our financial condition and liquidity could be materially and 
adversely  affected. Accordingly,  we  cannot  make  assurances  that  we  will  be  able  to  raise  additional  capital  when 
needed.

We are not restricted from issuing additional common stock or preferred stock, including any securities that 
are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common stock or preferred stock or any 
substantially similar securities. The market price of our common stock could decline as a result of sales of a large 
number of shares of common stock or preferred stock or similar securities in the market or from the perception that 
such sales could occur.

Our Board of Directors is authorized generally to cause us to issue additional common stock, as well as series 
of preferred stock, without any action on the part of our shareholders except as may be required under the listing 
requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market. In addition, our Board has the power, without shareholder approval, to 
set the terms of any such series of preferred stock that may be issued, including voting rights, dividend rights and 
preferences over the common stock with respect to dividends or upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of our 
business and other terms. Any capital we obtain may result in the dilution of the interests of existing holders of our 
common stock.

In addition, if we issue preferred stock in the future that has a preference over the common stock with respect 
to the payment of dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution or winding-up, or if we issue preferred stock with voting 

23

rights that dilute the voting power of the common stock, the rights of holders of the common stock or the market price 
of the common stock could be adversely affected.

Non-compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, or other laws and regulations could result in 
fines or sanctions and limit our ability to get regulatory approval of acquisitions.

The USA PATRIOT and Bank Secrecy Acts require financial institutions to develop programs to prevent financial 
institutions  from  being  used  for  money  laundering  and  terrorist  activities.  If  such  activities  are  detected,  financial 
institutions  are  obligated  to  file  suspicious  activity  reports  with  the  U.S.  Treasury’s  Office  of  Financial  Crimes 
Enforcement Network. These rules require financial institutions to establish procedures for identifying and verifying 
the identity of customers seeking to open new financial accounts. Failure to comply with these regulations could result 
in fines or sanctions and limit our ability to get regulatory approval of acquisitions. Recently several banking institutions 
have received large fines for non-compliance with these laws and regulations. While we have developed policies and 
procedures designed to assist in compliance with these laws and regulations, no assurance can be given that these 
policies and procedures will be effective in preventing violations of these laws and regulations.

Failure to maintain and implement adequate programs to combat money laundering and terrorist financing 
could also have serious reputational consequences for us. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect 
on our business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Our operations rely on numerous external vendors.

We rely on numerous external vendors to provide us with products and services necessary to maintain our 
day-to-day operations. Accordingly, our operations are exposed to risk that these vendors will not perform in accordance 
with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements. The failure of an external vendor to perform in 
accordance with the contracted arrangements under service level agreements because of changes in the vendor's 
organizational structure, financial condition, support for existing products and services or strategic focus or for any 
other reason, could be disruptive to our operations, which in turn could have a material negative impact on our financial 
condition and results of operations. We also could be adversely affected to the extent a service agreement is not 
renewed by the third party vendor or is renewed on terms less favorable to us.

We are subject to certain risks in connection with our use of technology.

Our  security  measures  may  not  be  sufficient  to  mitigate  the  risk  of  a  cyber-attack.  Communications  and 
information systems are essential to the conduct of our business, as we use such systems to manage our customer 
relationships, our general ledger and virtually all other aspects of our business. Our operations rely on the secure 
processing, storage, and transmission of confidential and other information in our computer systems and networks. 
Although we take protective measures and endeavor to modify them as circumstances warrant, the security of our 
computer systems, software, and networks may be vulnerable to breaches, fraudulent or unauthorized access, denial 
or degradation of service attacks, misuse, computer viruses, malware or other malicious code and cyber-attacks that 
could have a security impact. If one or more of these events occur, this could jeopardize our or our customers' confidential 
and  other  information  processed  and  stored  in,  and  transmitted  through,  our  computer  systems  and  networks,  or 
otherwise cause interruptions or malfunctions in our operations or the operations of our customers or counterparties. 
We may be required to expend significant additional resources to modify our protective measures or to investigate 
and remediate vulnerabilities or other exposures, and we may be subject to litigation and financial losses that are 
either not insured against or not fully covered through any insurance maintained by us. We could also suffer significant 
reputational damage.

Security breaches in our internet banking activities could further expose us to possible liability and damage 
our  reputation.  Increases  in  criminal  activity  levels  and  sophistication,  advances  in  computer  capabilities,  new 
discoveries,  and  vulnerabilities  in  third  party  technologies  (including  browsers  and  operating  systems)  or  other 
developments could result in a compromise or breach of the technology, processes and controls that we use to prevent 
fraudulent transactions and to protect data about us, our clients and underlying transactions. Any compromise of our 
security could deter customers from using our internet banking services that involve the transmission of confidential 
information. We rely on standard internet security systems to provide the security and authentication necessary to 
effect secure transmission of data. Although we have developed and continue to invest in systems and processes that 
are  designed  to  detect  and  prevent  security  breaches  and  cyber-attacks  and  periodically  test  our  security,  these 
precautions may not protect our systems from compromises or breaches of our security measures. and could result 
in losses to us or our customers, our loss of business and/or customers, damage to our reputation the incurrence of 
additional expenses, disruption to our business, our inability to grow our online services or other businesses, additional 
regulatory scrutiny or penalties, or our exposure to civil litigation and possible financial liability, any of which could have 
a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

24

Our security measures may not protect us from system failures or interruptions. While we have established 
policies and procedures to prevent or limit the impact of systems failures and interruptions, there can be no assurance 
that such events will not occur or that they will be adequately addressed if they do. In addition, we outsource certain 
aspects of our data processing and other operational functions to certain third-party providers. While the Company 
selects third-party vendors carefully, it does not control their actions. If our third-party providers encounter difficulties, 
including those resulting from breakdowns or other disruptions in communication services provided by a vendor, failure 
of a vendor to handle current or higher transaction volumes, cyber-attacks and security breaches or if we otherwise 
have difficulty in communicating with them, our ability to adequately process and account for transactions could be 
affected, and our ability to deliver products and services to our customers and otherwise conduct business operations 
could be adversely impacted. Replacing these third-party vendors could also entail significant delay and expense. 
Threats to information security also exist in the processing of customer information through various other vendors and 
their personnel.

We cannot assure you that such breaches, failures or interruptions will not occur or, if they do occur, that they 
will be adequately addressed by us or the third parties on which we rely. We may not be insured against all types of 
losses as a result of third party failures and insurance coverage may be inadequate to cover all losses resulting from 
breaches, system failures or other disruptions. If any of our third-party service providers experience financial, operational 
or technological difficulties, or if there is any other disruption in our relationships with them, we may be required to 
identify alternative sources of such services, and we cannot assure you that we could negotiate terms that are as 
favorable to us or could obtain services with similar functionality as found in our existing systems without the need to 
expend substantial resources, if at all. Further, the occurrence of any systems failure or interruption could damage our 
reputation and result in a loss of customers and business, could subject us to additional regulatory scrutiny, or could 
expose us to legal liability. Any of these occurrences could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition 
and results of operations.

The board of directors oversees the risk management process, including the risk of cybersecurity, and engages 

with management on cybersecurity issues.

If our enterprise risk management framework is not effective at mitigating risk and loss to us, we could suffer 
unexpected losses and our results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

Our enterprise risk management framework seeks to achieve an appropriate balance between risk and return, 
which is critical to optimizing stockholder value. We have established processes and procedures intended to identify, 
measure, monitor, report, analyze and control the types of risk to which we are subject. These risks include liquidity 
risk, credit risk, market risk, interest rate risk, operational risk, legal and compliance risk, and reputational risk, among 
others. We also maintain a compliance program to identify, measure, assess, and report on our adherence to applicable 
laws, policies and procedures. While we assess and improve these programs on an ongoing basis, there can be no 
assurance that our risk management or compliance programs, along with other related controls, will effectively mitigate 
all risk and limit losses in our business. However, as with any risk management framework, there are inherent limitations 
to our risk management strategies as there may exist, or develop in the future, risks that we have not appropriately 
anticipated or identified. If our risk management framework proves ineffective, we could suffer unexpected losses and 
our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

We are subject to certain risks in connection with our data management or aggregation.

We are reliant on our ability to manage data and our ability to aggregate data in an accurate and timely manner 
to ensure effective risk reporting and management. Our ability to manage data and aggregate data may be limited by 
the  effectiveness  of  our  policies,  programs,  processes  and  practices  that  govern  how  data  is  acquired,  validated, 
stored, protected and processed. While we continuously update our policies, programs, processes and practices, many 
of our data management and aggregation processes are manual and subject to human error or system failure. Failure 
to manage data effectively and to aggregate data in an accurate and timely manner may limit our ability to manage 
current and emerging risks, as well as to manage changing business needs.

We rely on dividends from Heritage Bank for substantially all of our revenue at the holding company level.

We are an entity separate and distinct from our subsidiary, Heritage Bank, and derive substantially all of our 
revenue at the holding company level in the form of dividends from that subsidiary. Accordingly, we are, and will be, 
dependent upon dividends from Heritage Bank to pay the principal of and interest on our indebtedness, to satisfy our 
other cash needs and to pay dividends on our common stock. Heritage Bank's ability to pay dividends is subject to its 
ability to earn net income and to meet certain regulatory requirements. In the event Heritage Bank is unable to pay 
dividends to us, we may not be able to pay dividends on our common stock. Also, our right to participate in a distribution 
of assets upon a subsidiary's liquidation or reorganization is subject to the prior claims of the subsidiary's creditors.

25

Our business may be adversely affected by an increasing prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes.

Our loans to businesses and individuals and our deposit relationships and related transactions are subject to 
exposure to the risk of loss due to fraud and other financial crimes. Nationally, reported incidents of fraud and other 
financial crimes have increased. We have also experienced losses due to apparent fraud and other financial crimes, 
although such losses have been relatively insignificant to date. While we have policies and procedures designed to 
prevent such losses, there can be no assurance that such losses will not occur.

Managing reputational risk is important to attracting and maintaining customers, investors and employees.

Threats to our reputation can come from many sources, including adverse sentiment about financial institutions 
generally,  unethical  practices,  employee  misconduct,  failure  to  deliver  minimum  standards  of  service  or  quality, 
compliance deficiencies and questionable or fraudulent activities of our customers. We have policies and procedures 
in place to protect our reputation and promote ethical conduct, but these policies and procedures may not be fully 
effective. Negative publicity regarding our business, employees, or customers, with or without merit, may result in the 
loss  of  customers,  investors  and  employees,  costly  litigation,  a  decline  in  revenues  and  increased  governmental 
regulation.

We are dependent on key personnel and the loss of one or more of those key personnel may materially and 
adversely affect our prospects.

Competition for qualified employees and personnel in the banking industry is intense and there are a limited 
number of qualified persons with knowledge of, and experience in, the community banking industry where we conduct 
our business. The process of recruiting personnel with the combination of skills and attributes required to carry out 
our strategies is often lengthy. Our success depends to a significant degree upon our ability to attract and retain qualified 
management, loan origination, finance, administrative, marketing and technical personnel and upon the continued 
contributions  of  our  management  and  personnel.  In  particular,  our  success  has  been  and  continues  to  be  highly 
dependent upon the abilities of key executives, including our Chief Executive Officer of Heritage, Mr. Brian L. Vance, 
and our Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank, Jeffrey J. Deuel, and certain other employees. The loss of key 
personnel could adversely affect our ability to successfully conduct our business.

Our  ability  to  sustain  or  improve  upon  existing  performance  is  dependent  upon  our  ability  to  respond  to 
technological change, and we may have fewer resources than some of our competitors to continue to invest 
in technological improvements.

The financial services industry is experiencing rapid technological changes with frequent introductions of new 
technology-driven  products  and  services.  Effective  use  of  technology  increases  efficiency  and  enables  financial 
institutions to better serve customers and to reduce costs. Many of our competitors have substantially greater resources 
to invest in technological improvements than the Company does. Our future success will depend, to some degree, 
upon its ability to address the needs of our customers by using technology to provide products and services that will 
satisfy customer demands for convenience, as well as create additional efficiencies in our operations. We may not be 
able to effectively implement new technology-driven products or services, or be successful in marketing these products 
and services. Additionally, the implementation of technological changes and upgrades to maintain current systems 
and integrate new ones may cause services interruptions, transaction processing errors and system conversion delays 
and may cause us to fail to comply with applicable laws. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully 
manage the risks associated with increased dependency on technology.

ITEM 1B.  

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

The  Company  has  no  unresolved  staff  comments  from  the  SEC  as  it  relates  to  the  Company's  financial 

information as reported on Form 10-K. 

26

 
ITEM 2.  

PROPERTIES

Our executive offices and the main office of Heritage Bank are located in approximately 22,000 square feet 
of the headquarters building and adjacent office space and main branch office which are owned by Heritage Bank and 
located in downtown Olympia. The Company's branch network at December 31, 2018 was comprised of 64 branches 
located throughout Washington and Oregon. The number of branches per county, as well as occupancy type, is detailed 
in the following table.

County
Clark

Cowlitz
Island (1)
Kittitas (1)
King

Mason

Multnomah
Pierce

San Juan
Skagit (1) 
Snohomish
Thurston (1)
Washington

Whatcom

Yakima

State
WA

WA

WA

WA

WA

WA

OR
WA

WA

WA

WA

WA

OR

WA

WA

Number of
Branches

Owned

Leased

Occupancy Type

2

2

7

1

8

1

2
13

1

3

8

4

5

3

4

1

2

6

1

3

1

—
8

—

3

6

3

1

3

4

1

—

1

—

5

—

2
5

1

—

2

1

4

—

—

Total
(1) One Island County branch, one Skagit County branch, one Thurston County branch and the one branch in Kittitas 

42

64

22

County have land leases, which are not included in the leased section above as the building is owned.

For  additional  information  concerning  our  premises  and  equipment  and  lease  obligations,  see  Note  (7) 
Premises  and  Equipment  and  Note  (14)  Commitments  and  Contingencies  of  the  Notes  to  Consolidated  Financial 
Statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

ITEM 3.  

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We, and our Bank, are not a party to any material pending legal proceedings other than ordinary routine 

litigation incidental to the business of the Bank.

ITEM 4.  

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable

27

 
 
PART II 

ITEM 5.  
AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 

Our common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol HFWA. At December 31, 
2018, we had approximately 1,439 shareholders of record (not including the number of persons or entities holding 
stock in nominee or street name through various brokerage firms) and 36,874,055 outstanding shares of common 
stock. This total does not reflect the number of persons or entities who hold stock in nominee or “street” name through 
various brokerage firms. 

Quarterly, the Company reviews the potential payment of cash dividends to common shareholders. The timing 
and amount of cash dividends paid on our common stock depends on the Company’s earnings, capital requirements, 
financial condition and other relevant factors.

The dividend activities for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 and through the date of this filing 

are listed below:

Declared
January 25, 2017
April 25, 2017
July 25, 2017
October 25, 2017
October 25, 2017
January 24, 2018
April 25, 2018
July 24, 2018
October 24, 2018
October 24, 2018
January 23, 2019

Cash

Dividend per Share        

$0.12
$0.13
$0.13
$0.13
$0.10
$0.15
$0.15
$0.15
$0.17
$0.10
$0.18

Record Date  
February 9, 2017
May 10, 2017
August 10, 2017
November 8, 2017
November 8, 2017
February 7, 2018
May 10, 2018
August 9, 2018
November 7, 2018
November 7, 2018
February 7, 2019

Paid
February 23, 2017
May 24, 2017
August 24, 2017
November 22, 2017
November 22, 2017
February 21, 2018
May 24, 2018
August 23, 2018
November 21, 2018
November 21, 2018
February 21, 2019

*

*

* Denotes special dividend.

The primary source for dividends paid to our shareholders are dividends paid to us from Heritage Bank. There 
are regulatory restrictions on the ability of the Bank to pay dividends. Under federal regulations, the dollar amount of 
dividends the Bank may pay depends upon its capital position and recent net income. Generally, if an institution satisfies 
its regulatory capital requirements, it may make dividend payments up to the limits prescribed under state law and 
FDIC regulations. However, an institution that has converted to the stock form of ownership, as Heritage Bank has 
done, may not declare or pay a dividend on, or repurchase any of, its common stock if the effect thereof would cause 
the regulatory capital of the institution to be reduced below the amount required for the liquidation account which was 
established in connection with the mutual to stock conversion.

As a bank holding company, our ability to pay dividends is subject to the guidelines of the Federal Reserve 
regarding capital adequacy and dividends. The Federal Reserve’s policy is that a bank holding company should pay 
cash dividends only to the extent that its net income for the past year is sufficient to cover both the cash dividends and 
a  rate  of  earnings  retention  that  is  consistent  with  the  holding  company’s  capital  needs,  asset  quality  and  overall 
financial condition, and that it is inappropriate for a bank holding company experiencing serious financial problems to 
borrow funds to pay dividends. Under Washington law, we are prohibited from paying a dividend if, after making such 
dividend payment, we would be unable to pay our debts as they become due in the usual course of business, or if our 
total liabilities, plus the amount that would be needed, in the event we were to be dissolved at the time of the dividend 
payment, to satisfy preferential rights on dissolution of holders of preferred stock ranking senior in right of payment to 
the capital stock on which the applicable distribution is to be made exceed our total assets.

28

 
Stock Repurchases

The  Company  has  had  various  stock  repurchase  programs  since  March  1999.  On  October  23,  2014,  the 
Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 5% of the Company's outstanding common shares, 
or approximately 1,513,000 shares, under the eleventh stock repurchase plan. At December 31, 2018, there were 
approximately 933,004 shares remaining to be purchased under the eleventh stock repurchase plan. The number, 
timing and price of shares repurchased will depend on business and market conditions, and other factors, including 
opportunities to deploy the Company's capital. 

Since the inception of the eleventh plan, the Company has repurchased 579,996 shares at an average share 

price of $16.67. No shares were repurchased under this plan during the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.   
During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company repurchased 138,000 shares at an average share price of 
$17.16.

In addition to the stock repurchases under a plan, the Company repurchases shares to pay withholding taxes 
on the vesting of restricted stock awards  and units. The following  table provides total repurchased  shares for the 
periods indicated: 

Repurchased shares to pay withholding taxes (1) 
Stock repurchase to pay withholding taxes average share price

53,256

29,429

$

31.99 $

25.01 $

29,512

17.82

(1)  During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company repurchased 26,741 shares related to the withholding 

taxes due on the accelerated vesting of the restricted stock units of Puget Sound which were converted to Heritage 
common stock shares with a share price of $31.80 under the terms of the Puget Sound Merger. 

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

The following table sets forth information about the Company’s purchases of its outstanding common stock 

during the quarter ended December 31, 2018.

Period
October 1, 2018—
October 31, 2018

November 1, 2018—
November 30, 2018

December 1, 2018—
December 31, 2018

Total

Total Number of
Shares 
Purchased (1)

Average Price
Paid Per Share (1)

— $

—

68

68 $

—

—

31.79

31.79

Cumulative 
Total Number of  
Shares 
Purchased as 
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans 
or Programs

Maximum Number 
of Shares that May 
Yet Be Purchased 
Under the Plans or
Programs

7,893,389

7,893,389

7,893,389

935,034

935,034

935,034

(1)  All of the common shares repurchased by the Company between October 1, 2018 and December 31, 2018, were 

shares of restricted stock that represented the cancellation of stock to pay withholding taxes.

29

Stock Performance Graph

The following graph depicts total return to shareholders during the five-year period beginning December 31, 
2013  and  ending  December 31,  2018.  Total  return  includes  appreciation  or  depreciation  in  market  value  of  the 
Company’s  common  stock  as  well  as  actual  cash  and  stock  dividends  paid  to  common  shareholders. The  graph 
additionally shows the five-year comparison of the total return to shareholders of the Company’s common stock as 
compared to the NASDAQ Composite Index and the SNL U.S. Bank NASDAQ Index. The NASDAQ Composite Index 
is a comparative broad market index comprised of all domestic and international common stocks listed on the Nasdaq 
Stock Market. The SNL U.S. Bank NASDAQ Index is a comparative peer index comprised of banks and related holding 
companies listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market. The graph assumes that the value of the investment in Heritage’s 
common stock and each of the three indices was $100 on December 31, 2013, and that all dividends were reinvested.

.

Index
Heritage Financial Corporation

NASDAQ Composite Index

SNL U.S. Bank NASDAQ Index

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Years Ended December 31,

$ 100.00 $ 105.74 $ 116.98 $ 166.45 $ 203.56 $ 200.82
168.30
137.56

114.75
103.57

173.22
163.20

133.62
155.02

122.74
111.80

100.00

100.00

*Information for the graph was provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.

ITEM 6.  

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables set forth certain information concerning our consolidated financial position and results of 
operations at and for the dates indicated and have been derived from our audited Consolidated Financial Statements. 
The information below is qualified in its entirety by the detailed information included elsewhere herein and should be 
read along with Item 7. Management’s Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations and 
Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

30

 
Matters  affecting  comparability  in  the  five-year  summary  detailed  below  include  the  Washington  Banking 

Merger in 2014, and the Premier and Puget Mergers in 2018, as discussed below.

Operations Data:
Interest income

Interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for loan losses
Noninterest income

Noninterest expense
Income tax expense (1)
Net income

Earnings per common share

Basic

Diluted

Dividend payout ratio to common 

shareholders (2)
Performance Ratios:
Net interest spread (3)
Net interest margin (4)
Efficiency ratio (5)
Noninterest expense to average assets

Return on average assets

Return on average common equity

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

$ 199,359

$ 147,709

$ 138,512

$ 135,739

$ 121,106

12,413

186,946
5,129

31,665

149,395

11,030

53,057

8,346

139,363
4,220

35,579
110,575

18,356

41,791

6,006

132,506
4,931

31,619

106,473

13,803

38,918

6,120

129,619
4,372

32,268

106,208

13,818

37,489

5,681

115,425
4,594

16,467

99,379

6,905

21,014

$

$

1.49

1.49

$

1.39

1.39

$

1.30

1.30

$

1.25

1.25

0.82

0.82

48.3%

43.9%

55.4%

42.4%

61.0%

4.15%

3.83%

3.89%

4.04%

4.45%

4.29
68.34

3.00

1.07

7.72

3.93

63.21

2.78

1.05

8.36

3.96

64.87

2.84

1.04

8.01

4.11

65.61

3.01

1.06

8.08

4.53

75.35

3.49

0.74

5.61

(1) The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted December 22, 2017 decreased the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 
21% beginning January 1, 2018 and impacted the comparability of our results. The results for the year ended December 
31, 2017 included a $2.6 million increase to the income tax expense as a result of the revaluation of our deferred tax 
assets and liabilities to account for the tax rate change.

(2) Dividend payout ratio is declared dividends per common share divided by diluted earnings per common share.
(3) Net interest spread is the difference between the average yield on interest earning assets and the average cost of 

interest bearing liabilities.

(4) Net interest margin is net interest income divided by average interest earning assets.
(5) The efficiency ratio is noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.

31

 
 
 
 
Balance Sheet Data:
Total assets

Total loans receivable, net

Investment securities

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Deposits

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Junior subordinated debentures

Securities sold under agreement to

repurchase

Stockholders’ equity

Financial Measures:
Book value per common share

Stockholders' equity to assets ratio
Net loans to deposits (1)
Capital Ratios:
Total risk-based capital ratio

Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio

Leverage ratio

Common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-

weighted assets

Asset Quality Ratios:
Nonperforming loans to loans

receivable, net

Allowance for loan losses to loans

receivable, net

Allowance for loan losses to

nonperforming loans

Nonperforming assets to total assets

Net charge-off on loans to average

loans receivable, net

Other Data:
Number of banking offices

Number of full-time equivalent

employees

Deposits per branch

Assets per full-time equivalent

December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands)

$5,316,927

$4,113,270

$3,878,981

$3,650,792

$ 3,457,750

3,619,118

2,816,985

2,609,666

2,372,296

2,223,348

976,095

261,553

810,530

125,117

794,645

126,403

811,869

127,818

778,660

129,918

4,432,402

3,393,060

3,229,648

3,108,287

2,906,331

—

20,302

31,487

760,723

92,500

20,009

31,821

508,305

79,600

19,717

22,104

481,763

—

19,424

23,214

469,970

—

19,082

32,181

454,506

$

20.63

$

16.98

$

16.08

$

15.68

$

15.02

14.3%

82.4%

12.4%

84.0%

12.4%

81.8%

12.9%

12.8%

13.0%

12.1

10.5

11.7

11.8

10.2

11.3

12.0

10.3

11.4

12.9%

77.3%

13.7%

12.7

10.4

12.00

13.1%

77.5%

15.1%

13.9

10.2

N/A

0.37%

0.38%

0.41%

0.40%

0.51%

0.96

1.13

1.18

1.24

1.23

255.73

0.30

299.79

0.26

284.93

0.30

307.67

0.32

0.06

0.12

0.14

0.10

64

59

63

67

859

69,256
6,190

735

57,509

5,596

760

51,264

5,104

717

46,392

5,092

239.62

0.43

0.30

66

748

44,035

4,623

(1) Loans receivable, net of deferred costs divided by deposits.

The Company has focused on expanding its business over the past several years. In May 2014, the Company 
completed the merger with Washington Banking Company. In 2018, the Company completed two bank acquisitions 
of Puget Sound Bancorp in January 2018 and Premier Commercial Bancorp in July 2018. These acquisitions and 
merger, together with organic growth of the business, have significantly increased the Company's assets and liabilities.

During the period from December 31, 2014 through December 31, 2018 total assets have increased $1.86 
billion, or 53.8%, to $5.32 billion as of December 31, 2018 from $3.46 billion at December 31, 2014. The total loans 
receivable, net of allowance for loan losses increased $1.40 billion, or 62.8%, to $3.62 billion as of December 31, 2018
from $2.22 billion at December 31, 2014. Loan increases during the five-year period are attributable primarily to the 

32

 
 
 
Premier and Puget Mergers with the acquisitions of loans at fair value of $718.6 million as of the merger dates. The 
remaining five-year period increase in loans of $677.2 million, or 6.9% annualized growth, was due to organic growth.  

Deposits  increased  $1.53  billion,  or  52.5%,  to  $4.43  billion  at  December 31,  2018  from  $2.91  billion  at 
December 31,  2014.  Deposit  increases  during  the  five-year  period  are  also  attributable  to  the  Premier  and  Puget 
Mergers with the assumptions of deposits at fair value of $824.6 million as of the merger dates. From December 31, 
2014  to  December 31,  2018,  non-maturity  deposits  (total  deposits  less  certificate  of  deposit  accounts),  including 
acquired deposits, increased $1.58 billion, or 66.6%, to $3.97 billion at December 31, 2018. The percentage of certificate 
of deposit accounts to total deposits decreased to 10.5% at December 31, 2018 from 18.1% at December 31, 2014.

Stockholders’  equity  increased  by  $306.2  million,  or  67.4%,  to  $760.7  million  at  December 31,  2018  from 
$454.5 million at December 31, 2014 due primarily to a combination of earnings and issuances of common stock, 
partially offset by repurchases of common stock and declarations of cash dividends. Our net income increased $32.0 
million,  or  152.5%,  to  $53.1  million  for  the  year  ended  December 31,  2018  from  $21.0  million  for  the  year  ended 
December 31, 2014 as a result of growth in the Company due primarily through acquisitions and merger. Net interest 
income increased $71.5 million, or 62.0%, to $186.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $115.4 million
during the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in net interest income was primarily a result of an increase 
in interest income of $78.3 million, or 64.6%, to $199.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $121.1 
million  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2014. Additionally,  the  increase  in  net  income  includes  an  increase  in 
noninterest income of $15.2 million, or 92.3%, to $31.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 
$16.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in net income was partially offset by an increase 
in noninterest expense of $50.0 million, or 50.3%, to $149.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $99.4 
million for the year ended December 31, 2014 as a result of the growth of the Company primarily through acquisitions 
and merger.

ITEM 7.  

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS 
OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion is intended to assist in understanding the financial condition and results of operations 
of  the  Company.  The  information  contained  in  this  section  should  be  read  with  the  December 31,  2018  audited 
Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary 
Data of this Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies

The  Company’s  Consolidated  Financial  Statements  have  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  accounting 
principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Companies may apply certain critical accounting policies 
requiring management to make subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to estimate the effect 
of matters that are inherently uncertain.

The Company considers its most critical accounting estimates to be the allowance for loan losses, estimations 
of  expected  cash  flows  related  to  purchased  credit  impaired  loans,  business  combinations,  other-than-temporary 
impairments in the fair value of investments and consideration of potential impairment of goodwill.

Allowance for Loan Losses    

The allowance for loan losses is established through a provision for loan losses charged against earnings. 
The balance of the allowance for loan losses is maintained at the amount management believes will be appropriate 
to absorb probable incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. The allowance for loan losses 
is determined by applying estimated loss factors to the credit exposure from outstanding loans.

We assess the estimated credit losses inherent in our loan portfolio by considering a number of elements 

including:
• 
• 

historical loss experience in the loan portfolio;
impact of environmental factors, including:

levels of and trends in delinquencies, classified and impaired loans;
levels of and trends in charge-offs and recoveries;
trends in volume and terms of loans;
effects of changes in risk selection and underwriting standards, and other changes in lending 
policies, procedures and practices;
experience, ability, and depth of lending management and other relevant staff;
national and local economic trends and conditions;
other external factors such as competition, legal and regulatory; 

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
effects of changes in credit concentrations; and
other factors.

We calculate an appropriate allowance for loan losses for the loans in our loan portfolio by applying historical 
loss factors for homogeneous classes of the portfolio, adjusted for changes to the above-noted environmental factors. 
We  may  record  a  specific  allowance  for  impaired  loans,  including  loans  on  nonaccrual  status  and  troubled-debt 
restructured ("TDR") loans, after a careful analysis of each loan’s credit and collateral factors. Our analysis of an 
appropriate  allowance  for  loan  losses  combines  the  provisions  made  for  our  non-impaired  loans  and  the  specific 
provisions made for each impaired loan.

While we believe we use the best information available to determine the allowance for loan losses, our results 
of  operations  could  be  significantly  affected  if  circumstances  differ  substantially  from  the  assumptions  used  in 
determining  the  allowance. A  decline  in  national  and  local  economic  conditions,  or  other  factors,  could  result  in  a 
material increase in the allowance for loan losses and may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and 
results of operations. In addition, the determination of the amount of the allowance for loan losses is subject to review 
by bank regulators, as part of their routine examination process, which may result in the establishment of additional 
allowance for loan losses based upon their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.

For additional information regarding the allowance for loan losses, its relation to the provision for loan losses, 
its risk related to asset quality and lending activity, see “—Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 
2018 and 2017—Provision for Loan Losses” and “—Consolidated Financial Condition —Allowance for Loan Losses” 
below, Item 1A. Risk Factors—Our allowance for loan losses may prove to be insufficient to absorb losses in our loan 
portfolio  as well as Note (5) Allowance for Loan Losses of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included 
in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

Estimated Expected Cash Flows related to Purchased Credit Impaired ("PCI") Loans    

Loans purchased in an acquisition with evidence of credit deterioration since origination for which it is probable 
that all contractually required payments will not be collected are accounted for under FASB Accounting Standards 
Codification ("ASC") 310-30, Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. In situations where 
such PCI loans have similar risk characteristics, loans may be aggregated into pools to estimate cash flows. A pool is 
accounted for as a single asset with a single interest rate, cumulative loss rate and cash flow expectation.

The cash flows expected over the life of the PCI loan or pool are estimated using an external cash flow model 
that projects cash flows and calculates the carrying values, book yields, effective interest income and impairment, if 
any, based on loan or pool level events. Assumptions as to default rates, loss severity and prepayment speeds are 
utilized to calculate the expected cash flows.

Expected cash flows at the acquisition date in excess of the fair value of loans are considered to be accretable 
yield, which is recognized as interest income over the life of the loan or pool using a level yield method if the timing 
and amounts of the future cash flows of the loan or pool are reasonably estimable. Subsequent to the acquisition date, 
cash flows expected over the life of the PCI loan or pool are estimated quarterly using an external cash flow model 
that projects cash flows and calculates the carrying values of the loans or pools, book yields, effective interest income 
and impairment, if any, based on loan or pool level events. Any increases in cash flow over those expected at the prior 
quarter are recorded as interest income prospectively. Any subsequent decreases in cash flow over those expected 
at the prior quarter are recognized by recording an allowance for loan losses. Any disposals of loans in pools, including 
sales of loans, payments in full or foreclosures result in the removal of the loan from the loan pool at the carrying 
amount and recognition of income if the proceeds from such activity is in excess of the carrying amount removed from 
the pool.

Business Combinations    

The Company applies the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. Under the acquisition 
method, the acquiring entity in a business combination recognizes all of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities 
assumed at their acquisition date fair values. Management utilizes prevailing valuation techniques appropriate for the 
asset or liability being measured in determining these fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over amounts 
allocated to assets acquired, including identifiable intangible assets, and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. 
Where amounts allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed is greater than the purchase price, a bargain 
purchase gain is recognized. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred unless they are directly attributable 
to the issuance of the Company's common stock in a business combination and the Company chooses to record these 
acquisition-related costs through stockholders' equity.

34

 
 
 
Other-Than-Temporary Impairments in the Fair Value of Investments    

Unrealized losses on investment securities available for sale are evaluated at least quarterly to determine 
whether declines in value should be considered “other than temporary” and therefore be subject to immediate loss 
recognition in income. Although these evaluations involve significant judgment, an unrealized loss in the fair value of 
a debt security is generally deemed to be temporary when the fair value of the security is below the carrying value 
primarily due to changes in interest rates, there has not been significant deterioration in the financial condition of the 
issuer, and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the security before the anticipated 
recovery of its remaining carrying value. Other factors that may be considered in determining whether a decline in the 
value of an investment security is “other than temporary” include ratings by recognized rating agencies; actions of 
commercial banks or other lenders relative to the continued extension of credit facilities to the issuer of the security; 
the financial condition, capital strength and near-term prospects of the issuer and recommendations of investment 
advisors  or  market  analysts.  Therefore,  continued  deterioration  of  market  conditions  could  result  in  additional 
impairment losses recognized within the investment portfolio.

Goodwill    

The Company’s goodwill is assigned to Heritage Bank and is evaluated for impairment at the Heritage Bank 
level (reporting unit). Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually and between annual tests if an event occurs or 
circumstances change that might indicate the Company’s recorded value is more than its implied value. Such indicators 
may include, among others: a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the general business climate; significant 
decline in the Company’s stock price and market capitalization; unanticipated competition; and an adverse action or 
assessment by a regulator. Any adverse changes in these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability 
of goodwill and could have a material impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

The goodwill impairment test involves a two-step process. The first test for goodwill impairment is done by 
comparing the reporting unit’s aggregate fair value to its carrying value. Absent other indicators of impairment, if the 
aggregate fair value exceeds the carrying value, goodwill is not considered impaired and no additional analysis is 
necessary. If the carrying value of the reporting unit were to exceed the aggregate fair value, a second test would be 
performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any.  Alternatively, the testing for impairment may begin with 
an  assessment  of  qualitative  factors  to  determine  whether  the  existence  of  events  or  circumstances  leads  to  a 
determination that the fair value of goodwill is less than carrying value. The qualitative assessment includes adverse 
events or circumstances identified that could negatively affect the reporting unit's fair value as well as positive and 
mitigating events. To measure any impairment loss, the implied fair value would be determined in the same manner 
as if the reporting unit were being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of goodwill is less than 
the recorded goodwill an impairment charge would be recorded for the difference.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company completed step one of the two-step process of the 
goodwill impairment test. Based on the results of the test, the Company concluded that the reporting unit’s fair value 
was greater than its carrying value and there was no impairment of goodwill.

For additional information regarding goodwill, see Note (8) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets of the Notes 

to Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

35

 
Financial Overview

Heritage Financial Corporation is a bank holding company which primarily engages in the business activities 
of  our  wholly-owned  financial  institution  subsidiary,  Heritage  Bank.  We  provide  financial  services  to  our  local 
communities with an ongoing strategic focus on our commercial banking relationships, market expansion and asset 
quality.

Consolidated Financial Condition 

The Company’s total assets increased $1.20 billion, or 29.3%, to $5.32 billion at December 31, 2018 from 
$4.11 billion at December 31, 2017. The increase was primarily due to the Premier and Puget Mergers completed 
during the year ended December 31, 2018 with acquired assets totaling $957.6 million at the respective merger dates. 
The asset balances at December 31, 2018 and 2017 and the changes in those balances are included in the following 
table:

Cash and cash equivalents

$

161,910 $

103,015 $

58,895

57.2 %

December 31,
2018

December 31,
2017

Change 2018
vs. 2017

(Dollars in thousands)

Percent
Change 2018
vs. 2017

Investment securities available for sale, at fair value

Loans held for sale
Total loans receivable, net

Other real estate owned

Premises and equipment, net

FHLB stock, at cost

Bank owned life insurance

Accrued interest receivable

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Other intangible assets, net

Goodwill

Total assets

Investment Activities

976,095
1,555

3,619,118
1,983

81,100

6,076

93,612

15,403

98,522

20,614

810,530
2,288

2,816,985

—

60,325

8,347

75,091

12,244

99,328

6,088

240,939

119,029

165,565
(733)

802,133

1,983

20,775

(2,271)

18,521

3,159

(806)

14,526

121,910

20.4
(32.0)

28.5

—

34.4

(27.2)%

24.7

25.8

(0.8)

238.6

102.4

$ 5,316,927 $ 4,113,270 $ 1,203,657

29.3 %

Our investment policy is established by the Board of Directors and monitored by the Risk Committee of the 
Board of Directors. It is designed primarily to provide and maintain liquidity, generate a favorable return on investments 
without incurring undue interest rate and credit risk, and complements the Bank's lending activities. The policy dictates 
the criteria for classifying securities as either available for sale or held to maturity. The policy permits investment in 
various types of liquid assets permissible under applicable regulations, which include U.S. Treasury obligations, U.S. 
Government agency obligations, some certificates of deposit of insured banks, mortgage-backed and mortgage related 
securities, corporate notes, municipal bonds, and federal funds. Investment in non-investment grade bonds and stripped 
mortgage-backed securities is not permitted under the policy.

Investment securities available for sale increased $165.6 million, or 20.4%, to $976.1 million at December 31, 
2018 from $810.5 million at December 31, 2017. The increase was due primarily to purchases of investment securities 
of $342.1 million, excluding investment securities acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers, partially offset by sales 
of investment securities of $156.0 million and maturities, calls and payments of investment securities of $92.6 million
during  the  year  ended  December 31,  2018.  Included  in  the  sales  of  investment  securities  was  $80.4  million  of 
investments acquired in the Puget Sound Merger which were sold shortly after the merger.

36

 
 
The following table provides information regarding our investment securities available for sale at the dates 

indicated.

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Fair Value

% of
Total
Investments

Fair Value

% of
Total
Investments

Fair Value

% of
Total
Investments

(Dollars in thousands)

$ 101,603
158,864

10.4% $
16.3

13,442
250,015

1.7% $

30.8

1,569
237,256

0.2%

29.9

331,602
333,761

—

34.0
34.2

—

280,211
217,079

4,580

34.5
26.8

0.6

309,176
208,318

10,478

38.9
26.2

1.3

U.S. Treasury and U.S.

Government-sponsored
agencies

Municipal securities
Mortgage-backed securities 

and collateralized mortgage 
obligations(1):
Residential
Commercial
Collateralized loan

obligations

2.6

25,563

Corporate obligations
Other securities(2)(3)
Total
(1)  Issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.
(2)  Primarily asset-backed securities issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.
(3)  As a result of the adoption of FASB Accounting Standard Update 2016-01 on January 1, 2018, equity investments of 
$146,000 and $123,000 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, are no longer classified as investment 
securities available for sale and their presentation is not comparable to the presentation as of December 31, 2018.

16,706
11,142
100.0% $ 794,645

28,433
100.0% $ 810,530

24,702
$ 976,095

16,770

100.0%

3.5

2.1

2.1

2.5

1.4

The following table provides information regarding our investment securities available for sale, by contractual 

maturity, at December 31, 2018.

One Year or Less

Over One to Five 
Years

Over Five to Ten 
Years

Over Ten Years

Total

Fair 
Value

Yield(2)

Fair 
Value

Yield(2)

Fair 
Value

Yield(2)

Fair 
Value

Yield(2)

Fair 
Value

Yield(2)

(Dollars in thousands)

$ 15,936

2.50% $ 44,462

2.98% $ 35,190

3.56% $

6,015

2.99% $101,603

3.11%

13,587

3.14

25,957

3.07

30,601

3.27

88,719

3.24

158,864

3.21

206

7,901

848

—

0.94

1.56

2.87

—

3,027

94,395

2.33

2.55

73,986

129,002

2.49

2.80

254,383

102,463

2.88

2.89

331,602

333,761

24,715

3.40

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

24,702

3.81

25,563

24,702

$ 38,478

Total
2.53% $192,556
(1)  Issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.
(2)  Taxable equivalent weighted average yield.
(3)  Primarily asset-backed securities issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.

2.87% $476,282

2.82% $268,779

3.00% $976,095

37

2.78

2.72

3.38

3.81

2.91%

U.S. Treasury and

U.S.
Government-
sponsored
agencies

Municipal

securities

Mortgage-backed 
securities and 
collateralized 
mortgage 
obligations (1):
Residential

Commercial

Corporate

obligations

Other securities (3)

 
 
 
 
 
 
Loan Portfolio

The Bank is a full service commercial bank, which originates a wide variety of loans with a focus on commercial 
business loans. Total loans receivable, net of allowance for loan losses, increased $802.1 million, or 28.5%, to $3.62 
billion at December 31, 2018 from $2.82 billion at December 31, 2017 primarily as a result of loans acquired in the 
Premier and Puget Mergers totaling $718.6 million at the respective merger dates. The year-over-year loan growth 
included increases in non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans which increased $317.9 million, or 32.2%, to 
$1.30 billion, in commercial and industrial loans which increased $208.2 million, or 32.3%, to $853.6 million and owner-
occupied commercial real estate loans which increased $157.7 million, or 25.3%, to $779.8 million at December 31, 
2018.

The following table provides information about our loan portfolio by type of loan at the dates indicated. These 

balances are prior to deduction for the allowance for loan losses.

2018

2017

December 31,

2016

2015

2014

Balance

% of 
(2)

Total

Balance

% of 
(2)

Total

Balance

% of 
(2)

Total

Balance

% of 
(2)

Total

Balance

% of 
(2)

Total

(Dollars in thousands)

Commercial
business:

Commercial and

industrial

Owner-occupied
commercial
real estate

Non-owner
occupied
commercial
real estate

Total

commercial
business

One-to-four family 

(1)

residential 

Real estate

$ 853,606

23.4% $ 645,396

22.7% $ 637,773

24.2% $ 596,726

24.8% $ 570,453

25.3%

779,814

21.3

622,150

21.8

558,035

21.1

572,609

23.8

574,687

25.5

1,304,463

35.7

986,594

34.6

880,880

33.4

753,986

31.4

663,935

29.5

2,937,883

80.4

2,254,140

79.1

2,076,688

78.7

1,923,321

80.0

1,809,075

80.3

101,763

2.8

86,997

3.1

77,391

2.9

72,548

3.0

69,530

3.1

construction and
land
development:

One-to-four
family
residential

Five or more
family
residential and
commercial
properties

Total real
estate
construction
and land
development

Consumer

Gross loans
receivable

Net deferred loan
costs (fees)

Loans receivable,

net

102,730

2.8

51,985

1.8

50,414

1.9

51,752

2.2

49,195

2.2

112,730

3.1

97,499

3.4

108,764

4.1

55,325

2.3

64,920

2.9

215,460

395,545

5.9

10.8

149,484

355,091

5.2

12.5

159,178

325,140

6.0

12.3

107,077

298,167

4.5

12.4

114,115

259,294

5.1

11.5

3,650,651

99.9

2,845,712

99.9

2,638,397

99.9

2,401,113

99.9

2,252,014

100.0

3,509

0.1

3,359

0.1

2,352

0.1

929

0.1

(937)

—

$3,654,160

100.0% $2,849,071

100.0% $2,640,749

100.0% $ 2,402,042

100.0% $ 2,251,077

100.0%

(1)  Excludes loans held for sale of $1.6 million, $2.3 million, $11.7 million, $7.7 million and $5.6 million as of 

December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

(2)  Percent of loans receivable, net.

38

 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents at December 31, 2018 (i) the aggregate contractual maturities of loans in the 
named categories of our loan portfolio and (ii) the aggregate amounts of fixed rate and variable or adjustable rate 
loans in the named categories.

Commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development

Consumer

Gross loans receivable

Fixed rate loans

Variable or adjustable rate loans

Total

One Year or
Less

Over One to
Five Years

Over Five
Years

Total

Maturing

(In thousands)

$

434,492 $

637,472 $

1,865,919 $

2,937,883

112

137,297
19,091

2,337

31,313
127,153

99,314

46,850
249,301

101,763

215,460
395,545

590,992 $

798,275 $

2,261,384 $

3,650,651

96,139 $

573,664 $

642,831 $

1,312,634

494,853

224,611

1,618,553

2,338,017

590,992 $

798,275 $

2,261,384 $

3,650,651

$

$

$

Included in the balance of variable or adjustable rate loans with maturity over five years in the table above are 
certain commercial loans in which the Bank entered into non-hedge interest rate swap contracts with the borrower and 
a third party. Under these derivative contract arrangements, the Bank effectively earns a variable rate of interest based 
on one-month LIBOR plus various margins while the customer pays a fixed rate of interest. At December 31, 2018, 
the Bank had 48 separate interest rate swap contracts with borrowers with notional value of $171.8 million compared 
to 39 separate interest rate swap contracts with borrowers with notional value of $146.5 million at December 31, 2017. 

39

 
 
 
 
The following table provides information about our nonaccrual loans, other real estate owned and performing 

TDR loans for the indicated dates. 

Nonaccrual loans:

Commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Total nonaccrual loans(1)

Other real estate owned

December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands)

$ 12,564

$

9,098

$

8,580

$

7,122

$

8,596

71

899

169

13,703
1,983

81

1,247

277

10,703
—

94

2,008

227

10,909
754
$ 11,663

38

2,414

94

9,668
2,019

—

2,831

145

11,572
3,355

$ 11,687

$ 14,927

Total nonperforming assets

$ 15,686

$ 10,703

Allowance for loan losses

$ 35,042

$ 32,086

$ 31,083

$ 29,746

$ 27,729

Allowance for loan losses to loans

receivable, net

Allowance for loan losses to nonaccrual

loans

Nonperforming loans to loans receivable,

net

Nonperforming assets to total assets

Performing TDR loans:

Commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

0.96%

1.13%

1.18%

1.24%

1.23%

255.73%

299.79%

284.93%

307.67%

239.62%

0.37%

0.30%

0.38%

0.26%

0.41%

0.30%

0.40%

0.32%

0.51%

0.43%

$ 22,170

$ 25,729

$ 19,837

$ 17,345

$ 14,421

208

—

358

218

645

165

227

2,141

83

236

3,014

100

245

3,927

66

Total performing TDR loans

$ 22,736

$ 26,757

$ 22,288

$ 20,695

$ 18,659

Accruing loans past due 90 days or more

$

— $

— $

— $

— $

—

Potential problem loans

101,349

83,543

87,762

110,357

162,930

(1) At December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2014, $6.9 million $5.2 million, $6.9 million, $6.3 million and $7.3 million 

of nonaccrual loans were considered TDR loans, respectively. 

Nonaccrual Loans. Nonaccrual loans increased $3.0 million to $13.7 million, or 0.37% of loans receivable, 
net, at December 31, 2018 from $10.7 million, or 0.38% of loans receivable, net, at December 31, 2017. The increase 
was due primarily to the addition of seven commercial and industrial customer relationships totaling $8.9 million during 
the  year  ended  December 31,  2018.  Of  these  additions,  $5.3  million  related  to  two  agricultural  relationships  who 
subsequently repaid $3.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2018, as included in net principal payments 
below.

40

 
 
 
The following table reflects the changes in nonaccrual loans during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 

2017:

Nonaccrual loans
Balance, beginning of period

   Addition of previously classified pass graded loans

   Addition of previously classified potential problem loans

   Addition of previously classified TDR loans

   Addition of acquired loans

   Transfer of loans to accrual status

   Charge-offs

   Net principal payments

Balance, end of period

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

(In thousands)

$

10,703 $

10,909

5,469

5,319

786

130

—

(1,027)

(7,677)

$

13,703 $

2,405

3,253

1,556

—

(968)

(1,219)

(5,233)

10,703

At December 31, 2018, nonaccrual loans of $9.5 million had related allowance for loan losses of $1.9 million
and nonaccrual loans of $4.2 million had no related allowance for loan losses. At December 31, 2017 nonaccrual loans 
of $3.8 million had related allowance for loan losses of $720,000 and nonaccrual loans of $6.9 million had no allowance 
for loan losses. 

At December 31, 2018, nonperforming TDR loans, included in the nonaccrual loan table above, were $6.9 
million and had a related allowance for loan losses of $658,000. At December 31, 2017, nonperforming TDR loans 
were $5.2 million and had a related allowance for loan losses of $379,000.

Nonperforming  Assets.  Nonperforming  assets  consist  of  nonaccrual  loans  and  other  real  estate  owned. 
Nonperforming assets increased $5.0 million to $15.7 million, or 0.30% of total assets at December 31, 2018 from 
$10.7 million, or 0.26% of total assets, at December 31, 2017 due primarily to the increase in nonaccrual loans discussed 
above. Nonperforming assets additionally increased due to the additions of other real estate owned, primarily as a 
result of other real estate owned acquired in the Premier Merger of $1.8 million. There was no other real estate owned 
at December 31, 2017.

Troubled  Debt  Restructured  Loans. TDR  loans  are  considered  impaired  and  are  separately  measured  for 
impairment whether on accrual or nonaccrual status. Performing TDR loans are not considered nonperforming assets 
as they continue to accrue interest despite being considered impaired due to the restructured status. Our performing 
TDR loans decreased $4.0 million, or 15.0%, to $22.7 million at December 31, 2018 from $26.8 million at December 31, 
2017.

The following table reflects the changes in performing TDR loans during the years ended December 31, 2018

and 2017:

Performing TDR loans
Balance, beginning of period

   Addition of previously classified pass graded loans

   Addition of previously classified potential problem loans

   Addition of former nonaccrual loans

   Transfers of loans to nonaccrual and troubled debt restructured status

   Charge-offs

   Net principal payments

Balance, end of period

41

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

(In thousands)

$

26,757 $

2,165

9,651

—

(786)

—

(15,051)

$

22,736 $

22,288

12,244

2,189

968

(1,556)

(16)

(9,360)

26,757

 
 
The related allowance for loan losses on performing TDR loans was $2.3 million as of December 31, 2018

and $2.6 million as of December 31, 2017.

Potential  Problem  Loans.  Potential  problem  loans  increased  $17.8  million,  or  21.3%,  to  $101.3  million  at 
December 31, 2018 from $83.5 million at December 31, 2017. The increase was due primarily to the addition of potential 
problem loans acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers with an acquired total outstanding balance of $10.1 million 
and $4.5 million, respectively, at their respective merger dates, and totaling $12.2 million at December 31, 2018.

The following table reflects the changes in potential problem loans during the years ended December 31, 2018

and 2017:

Potential problem loans
Balance, beginning of period

   Addition of previously classified pass graded loans
   Acquired in Premier and Puget Mergers (1)
   Net principal payments

   Upgrades to pass graded loan status

   Transfers of loan to nonaccrual and troubled debt restructured status

   Transfers of loans to other real estate owned

   Transfer of loan to held for sale

   Charge-offs

Balance, end of period

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

(In thousands)

$

83,543 $

59,238

18,869

(28,184)

(16,746)

(14,970)

—

—

(401)

$

101,349 $

87,762

52,039

—

(37,636)

(5,245)

(6,866)

(32)

(5,779)

(700)

83,543

(1) Represents the loan balance acquired and post-acquisition classification as potential problem loan of any loan acquired 
in  the  Premier  and  Puget  Mergers. The  period  end  balance  of  these  potential  problem  loans  is  $17.8  million  as  of 
December 31, 2018 due to net principal payments subsequent to the acquisition or classification as a potential problem 
loan.

42

 
Allowance for Loan Losses

The following table provides information regarding changes in our allowance for loan losses at and for the 

indicated years:

At or For the Years Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

(Dollars in thousands)

$

32,086

$

31,083

$

29,746

$

27,729

$

28,824

5,129

4,220

4,931

4,372

4,594

(1,400)

(45)

—

(2,160)

(3,605)

908

—

11

513

(2,438)

(30)

(556)

(1,814)

(4,838)

947

2

202

470

1,432

(2,173)

1,621

(3,217)

(4,153)

—

(154)

(1,778)

(6,085)

1,844

2

83

562

2,491

(3,594)

(1,676)

—

(106)

(1,700)

(3,482)

476

13

100

538

1,127

(2,355)

(5,252)

(31)

(345)

(969)

(6,597)

716

7

43

142

908

(5,689)

$

35,042

$

32,086

$

31,083

$

29,746

$

27,729

$ 3,650,651

$ 2,845,712

$ 2,638,397

$ 2,401,113

$ 2,252,014

3,414,424

2,703,934

2,489,730

2,316,175

1,871,696

0.06%

0.12%

0.14%

0.10%

0.30%

Allowance for loan losses at
beginning of the year

Provision for loan losses

Charge-offs:

Commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and

land development

Consumer

Total charge-offs

Recoveries:

Commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and

land development

Consumer

Total recoveries

Net charge-offs

Allowance for loan losses at end

of the year

Gross loans receivable at end of 

the year (1)

Average loans receivable during 

the year (1)

Net charge-offs on loans to

average loans receivable

(1)  Excludes loans held for sale.

43

 
 
 
 
The following table shows the allocation of the allowance for loan losses at the indicated dates. The allocation 
is based upon an evaluation of defined loan problems, historical loan loss ratios, and industry-wide and other factors 
that affect loan losses in the categories shown below:

December 31,

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Allowance
for Loan
Losses

% of
Total (1)

Allowance
for Loan
Losses

% of
Total (1)

Allowance
for Loan
Losses

% of
Total (1)
(Dollars in thousands)

Allowance
for Loan
Losses

% of
Total (1)

Allowance
for Loan
Losses

% of
Total (1)

$ 23,711

80.5% $ 21,999

79.1% $ 22,382

78.8% $ 22,064

80.1% $ 20,186

80.3%

1,203

2.8

1,056

3.1

1,015

2.9

1,157

3.0

1,200

3.1

2,194

6,581

1,353

5.9

10.8

—

2,052

6,081

898

5.3

12.5

—

2,156

5,024

506

6.0

12.3

—

1,871

4,309

345

4.5

12.4

—

2,758

2,769

816

5.1

11.5

—

$ 35,042

100.0% $ 32,086

100.0% $ 31,083

100.0% $ 29,746

100.0% $ 27,729

100.0%

Commercial
business

One-to-four
family
residential

Real estate

construction

Consumer

Unallocated

Total

allowance
for loan
losses

(1)  Represents the percent of loans receivable by loan category to total gross loans receivable.

The allowance for loan losses increased $3.0 million, or 9.2%, to $35.0 million at December 31, 2018 from 
$32.1 million at December 31, 2017. The increase was the result of provision for loan losses of $5.1 million recognized 
during the year ended December 31, 2018, offset partially by net charge-offs of $2.2 million recorded during the year. 
The allowance for loan losses to loans receivable, net, decreased to 0.96% at December 31, 2018 from 1.13% at 
December 31,  2017  primarily  as  a  result  of  loans  acquired  from  the  Premier  and  Puget  Mergers  with  no  related 
allowance for loan losses at the date of acquisition in accordance with GAAP. Included in the carrying value of loans 
are net discounts on loans purchased in mergers and acquisitions which may reduce the need for an allowance for 
loan  losses  on  these  loans  because  they  are  carried  at  an  amount  below  the  outstanding  principal  balance. The 
remaining net discount on purchased loans, including the related fair value discount acquired in the Premier and Puget 
Mergers, was $11.8 million at December 31, 2018 compared to $10.1 million at December 31, 2017.

The Company recorded charge-offs of $3.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 due primarily 
to a large volume of small charge-offs on consumer loans. The Company recorded recoveries of $1.4 million during 
the year ended December 31, 2018, primarily as a result of small recoveries on a large volume of small dollar consumer 
loans.

As  of  December 31,  2018,  the  Bank  identified  $13.7  million  of  nonperforming  loans  and  $22.7  million  of 
performing TDR  loans  for  a  total  of  $36.4  million  of  impaired  loans.  Of  these  impaired  loans,  $7.6  million  had  no 
allowances for loan losses as their estimated collateral value or discounted expected cash flow is equal to or exceeds 
their carrying costs. The remaining $28.8 million of impaired loans had related allowances for loan losses totaling $4.2 
million. As  of  December 31,  2017,  the  Bank  identified  $10.7  million  of  nonperforming  loans  and  $26.8  million  of 
performing TDR loans for a total of $37.5 million of impaired loans. Of these impaired loans, $10.4 million had no 
allowances  for  loan  losses. The  remaining  $27.1  million  of  impaired  loans  had  related  allowances  for  loan  losses 
totaling $3.4 million. 

44

 
 
 
 
 
The following table outlines the allowance for loan losses and related outstanding loan balances on loans at 

December 31, 2018 and 2017:

General Valuation Allowance:
Allowance for loan losses

Gross loans, excluding PCI and impaired loans

Percentage

PCI Allowance:
Allowance for loan losses

Gross PCI loans

Percentage

Specific Valuation Allowance:
Allowance for loan losses

Gross impaired loans

Percentage

Total Allowance for Loan Losses:
Allowance for loan losses

Gross loans receivable

Percentage

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(Dollars in thousands)

27,854

$

3,589,305

0.78%

24,732

2,767,650

0.89%

3,018

$

24,907

12.12%

4,170

$

36,439

11.44%

3,999

40,603

9.85%

3,355

37,459

8.96%

35,042

$

3,650,651

0.96%

32,086

2,845,712

1.13%

$

$

$

$

Based on the Bank's established comprehensive methodology, management deemed the allowance for loan 
losses of $35.0 million at December 31, 2018 (0.96% of loans receivable, net and 255.73% of nonperforming loans) 
appropriate to provide for probable incurred credit losses based on an evaluation of known and inherent risks in the 
loan portfolio at that date. This compares to an allowance for loan losses at December 31, 2017 of $32.1 million (1.13%
of loans receivable, net and 299.79% of nonperforming loans). 

While we believe we use the best information available to determine the allowance for loan losses, our results 
of  operations  could  be  significantly  affected  if  circumstances  differ  substantially  from  the  assumptions  used  in 
determining  the  allowance. A  decline  in  national  and  local  economic  conditions,  or  other  factors,  could  result  in  a 
material increase in the allowance for loan losses and may adversely affect the Company’s financial condition and 
results of operations. In addition, the determination of the amount of the allowance for loan losses is subject to review 
by bank regulators, as part of their routine examination process, which may result in the establishment of an additional 
allowance for loan losses based upon their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination. 
Because future events affecting borrowers and collateral cannot be predicted with certainty, there can be no assurance 
that the existing allowance for loan losses is appropriate or that increased provisions will not be necessary should the 
quality  of  the loans  deteriorate. Any  material  increase  in  the  allowance  for loan  losses  would  adversely  affect the 
Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

Deposits

Total deposits increased $1.04 billion, or 30.6%, to $4.43 billion at December 31, 2018 from $3.39 billion at 
December 31, 2017 due primarily to the deposits acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers of $824.6 million at the 
respective merger dates. Non-maturity deposits as a percentage of total deposits increased to 89.5% at December 31, 
2018 from 88.3% at December 31, 2017 and the percentage of certificates of deposit to total deposits decreased to 
10.5% at December 31, 2018 from 11.7% at December 31, 2017.

45

 
 
 
The following table provides the balances outstanding for each major category of deposits at the dates indicated:

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

Amount

Percent of
Total

Amount

Percent of
Total

Amount

Percent of
Total

(Dollars in thousands)

Noninterest demand deposits

$1,362,268

30.7% $ 944,791

27.8% $ 882,091

27.3%

Interest bearing demand

deposits

Money market accounts
Savings accounts

Total non-maturity deposits
Certificate of deposit accounts

Total deposits

1,317,513
765,316
520,413

3,965,510
466,892
$4,432,402

29.7
17.3
11.8
89.5
10.5

1,051,752
499,618

498,501
2,994,662
398,398

31.1
14.7

14.7
88.3
11.7

963,821
523,875

502,460
2,872,247

357,401

29.8
16.2

15.6
88.9

11.1

100.0% $3,393,060

100.0% $3,229,648

100.0%

The following table provides the average balances outstanding and the weighted average interest rates for 

each major category of deposits for the years indicated:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

Average
Balance

Average
Yield/Rate

Average
Balance

Average
Yield/Rate

Average
Balance

Average
Yield/Rate

(Dollars in thousands)

$ 1,916,319
513,680

463,124

0.23% $ 1,498,619

0.17% $ 1,464,198

0.40

0.85

499,435

378,044

0.26

0.59

485,482

388,286

2,893,123

0.36

2,376,098

0.25

2,337,966

1,240,621
$ 4,133,744

—

902,716

—

829,912

0.25% $ 3,278,814

0.18% $ 3,167,878

0.16%

0.16

0.50

0.21

—

0.16%

Interest bearing demand
deposits and money
market accounts

Savings accounts

Certificate of deposit

accounts

Total interest bearing

deposits

Noninterest demand

deposits

Total deposits

The following table shows the amount and maturity of certificate of deposit accounts of $100,000 or more:

Remaining maturity:

Three months or less

Over three months through six months

Over six months through twelve months

Over twelve months

Total

Borrowings

December 31, 2018

(In thousands)

$

$

88,527

48,781

63,878

96,042

297,228

Borrowings may be used on a short-term basis to compensate for reductions in other sources of funds (such 
as deposit inflows at less than projected levels). Borrowings may also be used on a longer-term basis to support 
expanded lending activities and match the maturity of repricing intervals of interest earning assets. The Bank also 

46

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
utilizes  securities  sold  under  agreement  to  repurchase  as  a  supplement  to  its  funding  sources.  Our  repurchase 
agreements are secured by available for sale investment securities. At December 31, 2018, the Bank had securities 
sold  under  agreement  to  repurchase  of  $31.5  million,  a  decrease  of  $334,000,  or  1.0%,  from  $31.8  million  at 
December 31, 2017. The decrease was the result of customer activity during the period.

The Company also has junior subordinated debentures with a par value of $25.0 million which pay quarterly 
interest  based  on  three-month  LIBOR  plus  1.56%.  The  debentures  mature  in  2037.  The  balance  of  the  junior 
subordinated debentures was $20.3 million at December 31, 2018, which reflects the fair value of the junior subordinated 
debentures established during the Washington Banking Merger, adjusted for the accretion of discount from purchase 
accounting fair value adjustment.

At December 31, 2018, the Bank maintained credit facilities with the FHLB of Des Moines for $921.7 million 
and credit facilities with the Federal Reserve Bank for $37.4 million. The Company had no FHLB advances outstanding 
at December 31, 2018 compared to $92.5 million at December 31, 2017. The average cost of the FHLB advances 
during the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was 1.98% and 1.16%, respectively. The Bank also maintains 
lines of credit with four correspondent banks to purchase federal funds totaling $90.0 million as of December 31, 2018. 
There were no federal funds purchased as of December 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017.

Stockholders' Equity and Capital

Stockholders’ equity at December 31, 2018 was $760.7 million compared to $508.3 million at December 31, 

2017. The changes to stockholders' equity during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:

Balance, beginning of period

Common stock issued in the Premier and Puget Mergers

Net income

Dividends declared

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net

Other

Balance, end of period

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

(In thousands)

$

508,305 $

481,763

230,043

53,057

(25,791)

(6,064)

1,173

—

41,791

(18,305)

1,526

1,530

$

760,723 $

508,305

The  Company  has  historically  paid  cash  dividends  to  its  common  shareholders.  Payments  of  future  cash 
dividends, if any, will be at the discretion of our board of directors after taking into account various factors, including 
our business, operating results and financial condition, capital requirements, current and anticipated cash needs, plans 
for expansion, any legal or contractual limitation on our ability to pay dividends and other relevant factors. Dividends 
on  common  stock  from  the  Company  depend  substantially  upon  receipt  of  dividends  from  the  Bank,  which  is  the 
Company’s predominant source of income. On January 23, 2019, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular 
quarterly dividend of $0.18 per common share payable on February 21, 2019 to shareholders of record on February 7, 
2019.

Dividends paid per common share
Dividend payout ratio (1)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

0.72

$

0.61

$

48.3%

43.9%

0.72

55.4%

(1) Dividend payout ratio is declared dividends per common share divided by diluted earnings per common share.

The Company is a bank holding company under the supervision of the Federal Reserve Bank. Bank holding 
companies are subject to capital adequacy requirements of the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company 
Act of 1956, as amended, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve. Heritage Bank is a federally insured institution 
and thereby is subject to the capital requirements established by the FDIC. The Federal Reserve capital requirements 
generally parallel the FDIC requirements. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, 
and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on 
the Company’s consolidated financial statements and operations. Management believes as of December 31, 2018, 
the Company and the Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject. For additional information 

47

 
 
 
 
regarding the Company’s and the Bank’s regulatory capital requirements, see “Supervision and Regulation-Capital 
Adequacy” in Item 1. Business and Note (22) Regulatory Capital Requirements included in Item 8. Financial Statements 
And Supplementary Data.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

In the ordinary course of business, we enter into various types of transactions that include commitments to 
extend credit that are not included in our Consolidated Financial Statements. We apply the same credit standards to 
these commitments as we use in all our lending activities and have included these commitments in our lending risk 
evaluations. Our exposure to credit loss under commitments to extend credit is represented by the amount of these 
commitments. The Company had off-balance sheet loan commitments, including letters of credit, aggregating $990.0 
million at December 31, 2018, an increase of $276.8 million, or 38.8%, from $713.2 million at December 31, 2017. For 
additional information, see Note (14) Commitments and Contingencies included in Item 8. Financial Statements And 
Supplementary Data.

Average Balances, Yields and Rates Paid for the Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

Our core profitability depends primarily on our net interest income, which is the difference between the income 
we receive on our loan and investment portfolios, and our cost of funds, which consists of interest paid on deposits 
and borrowed funds. Like most financial institutions, our interest income and cost of funds are affected significantly 
by general economic conditions, particularly changes in market interest rates and government policies.

Changes in net interest income result from changes in volume, net interest spread, and net interest margin. 
Volume refers to the average dollar amounts of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. Net interest 
spread refers to the difference between the average yield on interest earning assets and the average cost of interest 
bearing liabilities. Net interest margin refers to net interest income divided by average interest earning assets and is 
influenced by the level and relative mix of interest earning assets and interest bearing and noninterest bearing liabilities.

The following table provides relevant net interest income information for selected periods. The average daily 
loan balances presented in the table are net of allowances for loan losses. Nonaccrual loans have been included in 
the tables as loans carrying a zero yield. Yields on tax-exempt securities and loans have not been presented on a tax-
equivalent basis.

Year Ended December 31,

2018

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Balance

Average
Yield/
Rate

Average
Balance

2017

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Yield/
Rate

Average
Balance

2016

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Yield/
Rate

(Dollars in thousands)

$ 3,414,424

$175,466

5.14% $ 2,703,934

$129,213

4.78% $ 2,489,730

$122,147

4.91%

677,893

17,602

2.60

570,969

12,688

2.22

589,867

11,215

1.90

190,209

4,649

2.44

226,934

5,269

2.32

221,708

4,870

2.20

76,117

1,642

2.16

45,949

539

1.17

44,951

280

0.62

4,358,643

199,359

4.57

3,547,786

147,709

4.16

3,346,256

138,512

4.14

Assets:
Total loans
receivable, net

Taxable
securities

Nontaxable
securities

Other interest
earning assets

Total interest
earning
assets

Noninterest
earning assets

615,372

Total assets

$ 4,974,015

433,566

$ 3,981,352

399,279

$ 3,745,535

48

 
 
 
 
 
Year Ended December 31,

2018

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Balance

Average
Yield/
Rate

Average
Balance

2017

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Yield/
Rate

Average
Balance

2016

Interest
Earned/
Paid

Average
Yield/
Rate

(Dollars in thousands)

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity:
Certificate of
deposit
accounts

$ 463,124

$

3,959

0.85% $ 378,044

$

2,244

0.59% $ 388,286

$

1,936

0.50%

Savings
accounts

Interest bearing
demand and
money market
accounts

Total interest
bearing
deposits

Junior
subordinated
debentures

FHLB
advances and
other
borrowings

Securities sold
under
agreement to
repurchase

Total interest
bearing
liabilities

Demand and
other
noninterest
bearing
deposits

Other
noninterest
bearing
liabilities

Stockholders’
equity

Total
liabilities and
stock-
holders’
equity

Net interest
income

Net interest
spread

Net interest
margin

Average
interest earning
assets to
average
interest bearing
liabilities

513,680

2,056

0.40

499,435

1,311

0.26

485,482

756

0.16

1,916,319

4,382

0.23

1,498,619

2,494

0.17

1,464,198

2,318

0.16

2,893,123

10,397

0.36

2,376,098

6,049

0.25

2,337,966

5,010

0.21

20,145

1,263

6.27

19,860

1,014

5.11

19,565

880

4.50

33,914

671

1.98

105,648

1,226

1.16

13,349

74

0.55

31,426

82

0.26

25,434

57

0.22

20,392

42

0.21

2,978,608

12,413

0.42

2,527,040

8,346

0.33

2,391,272

6,006

0.25

1,240,621

67,692

687,094

902,716

51,820

499,776

829,912

38,474

485,877

$ 4,974,015

$ 3,981,352

$ 3,745,535

$186,946

$139,363

$132,506

4.15%

4.29%

3.83%

3.93%

3.89%

3.96%

146.33%

140.39%

139.94%

49

 
 
 
 
The following table provides the amount of change in our net interest income attributable to changes in volume 
and changes in interest rates. Changes attributable to the combined effect of volume and interest rates have been 
allocated proportionately for changes due specifically to volume and interest rates.

Year Ended December 31,

2018 Compared to 2017
Increase (Decrease) Due to

2017 Compared to 2016
Increase (Decrease) Due to

Volume

Rate

Total

Volume

Rate

Total

(In thousands)

Interest Earning Assets:
Loans

Taxable securities
Nontaxable securities
Other interest earning assets

Interest income

Interest Bearing Liabilities:
Certificate of deposit accounts

Savings accounts
Interest bearing demand and
money market accounts

Total interest bearing deposits

Junior subordinated debentures

Securities sold under agreement

to repurchase

FHLB advances and other

borrowings

Interest expense

Net Interest Income

$

$

$

$

$

36,512 $

2,776
(898)
651

39,041 $

9,741 $
2,138
278

452
12,609 $

46,253 $

4,914
(620)

1,103

10,236 $
(420)
121

(3,170) $
1,893
278

12

247

7,066
1,473
399

259

51,650 $

9,949 $

(752) $

9,197

727 $

57

988 $
688

1,715 $
745

(61) $
37

369 $
518

955
1,739

18

16

(1,419)

933

2,609

231

9

864

1,888

4,348

249

25

57

33

15

11

(555)

1,071

119
1,006

119

4

81

354 $

3,713 $

4,067 $

1,130 $

1,210 $

38,687 $

8,896 $

47,583 $

8,819 $

(1,962) $

308
555

176

1,039

134

15

1,152

2,340

6,857

Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 

Earnings Summary

Net income was $53.1 million, or $1.49 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2018
compared to $41.8 million, or $1.39 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2017. Net income 
increased $11.3 million, or 27.0%, for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the year ended December 31, 
2017 primarily due to an increase in net interest income of $47.6 million, or 34.1%, and the impact of utilizing a lower 
effective tax rate due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, partially offset by an increase in noninterest expense of $38.8 
million, or 35.1%. The increases in net interest income and noninterest expense during the year ended December 31, 
2018 compared to the same period in 2017 were primarily the result of the Premier and Puget Mergers. 

The net interest margin increased 36 basis points to 4.29% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared 
to 3.93% for the same period in 2017. The increase in net interest margin was primarily due to the increases in both 
the average loan balance and loan yield and secondarily due to increases in both the average balances and yields on 
investments, offset partially by an increase in both the average balance and cost of interest bearing liabilities.

The Company’s efficiency ratio was 68.34% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 63.21% for 
the year ended December 31, 2017. The change in the efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared 
to the year ended December 31, 2017 was primarily attributable to acquisition-related expenses included in noninterest 
expense as a result of the Premier and Puget Mergers.

50

 
 
 
 
Net Interest Income    

One of the Company's key sources of earnings is net interest income. There are several factors that affect net 
interest income including, but not limited to, the volume, pricing, mix and maturity of interest earning assets and interest 
bearing liabilities; the volume of noninterest bearing deposits and other liabilities and stockholders' equity; the volume 
of noninterest earning assets; market interest rate fluctuations; and asset quality. Net interest income increased $47.6 
million, or 34.1%, to $186.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $139.4 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2017. The increase in net interest income was primarily due to increases in average interest 
earning assets, which increased substantially as a result of the Premier and Puget Mergers, and increases in the yield 
on total interest earning assets due to increasing market rates, offset partially by increases in the average cost of total 
interest bearing liabilities primarily as a result of rising interest rates and increases in average interest bearing liabilities, 
also due to the Premier and Puget Mergers.

Interest Income

Total interest income increased $51.7 million, or 35.0%, to $199.4 million for the year ended December 31, 
2018 compared to $147.7 million for the same period in 2017. The balance of average interest earning assets increased 
$810.9 million, or 22.9%, to $4.36 billion for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $3.55 billion for the year ended 
December 31, 2017 and the yield on total interest earning assets increased 41 basis points to 4.57% for the year 
ended December 31, 2018 compared to 4.16% for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in the interest 
income was due primarily to interest income from interest and fees on loans and secondarily due to interest income 
on investment securities.

Interest income from interest and fees on loans increased $46.3 million, or 35.8%, to $175.5 million for the 
year ended December 31, 2018 from $129.2 million for the same period in 2017 due primarily to increases in both 
average loans receivable, net and in loan yields. Average total loans receivable, net increased $710.5 million, or 26.3%, 
to $3.41 billion for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $2.70 billion for the year ended December 31, 
2017 primarily as a result of the Premier and Puget Mergers. Loan yields increased 36 basis points to 5.14% for the 
year ended December 31, 2018 from 4.78% for the year ended December 31, 2017 due to a combination of higher 
contractual loan rates as a result of the increasing interest rate environment and higher loan yields for loans acquired 
in the Premier and Puget Mergers as compared to the yield of legacy Heritage loans.

Incremental accretion income was $8.0 million and $6.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 
2017, respectively. The increase in the incremental accretion was primarily due to the accretion of the loans acquired 
in the Premier and Puget Mergers. The impact on loan yield from incremental accretion on purchased loans was 0.23%
for both the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. The incremental accretion and the impact to loan yield will 
change during any quarter based on the volume of prepayments, but is expected to decrease over time as the balance 
of the purchased loans continues to decrease. It is also expected that incremental accretion on portfolios with heavy 
short-term or revolving loans will experience higher accretion in the first year after the merger date.

51

 
 
The following table presents a reconciliation of the loan yield calculated in accordance with GAAP to the loan 
yield excluding the effect of the incremental accretion on purchased loans for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 
2017:

Loan yield (GAAP)

Exclude impact on loan yield from incremental accretion on purchased 

loans(1)

Loan yield, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans (non-

GAAP)(1) (2)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

(Dollars in thousands)

5.14%

0.23%

4.91%

4.78%

0.23%

4.55%

Incremental accretion on purchased loans

$

7,964

$

6,320

(1)  As of the date of completion of each merger and acquisition transaction, purchased loans were recorded at their estimated 
fair value, including our estimate of future expected cash flows until the ultimate resolution of these credits. The difference 
between the contractual loan balance and the fair value represents the purchased discount. The purchased discount is 
accreted into income over the estimated remaining life of the loan or pool of loans, based upon results of the quarterly 
cash flow re-estimation. The incremental accretion income represents the amount of income recorded on the purchased 
loans in excess of the contractual stated interest rate in the individual loan notes.
(2) For additional information, see "Non-GAAP Financial Information." 

Interest income on investment securities increased $4.3 million, or 23.9%, to $22.3 million during the year 
ended December 31, 2018 compared to $18.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in interest 
income on investment securities was the result of a combination of an increase in investment yields for the year ended 
December 31, 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 and an increase in the average balance of investment 
securities  during  the  period.  Yields  on  taxable  securities  increased  38  basis  points  to  2.60%  for  the  year  ended 
December 31, 2018 compared to 2.22% for the same period in 2017. Yields on nontaxable securities increased 12
basis points to 2.44% for the year ended December 31, 2018 from 2.32% for the same period in 2017. The average 
balance of investment securities increased $70.2 million, or 8.8%, to $868.1 million during the year ended December 
31, 2018 from $797.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2017. The Company reduced the balance of its tax 
exempt securities during the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 as holding tax 
exempt securities was not as beneficial given the decrease in the federal corporate income tax rate in 2018. The 
Company  has  actively  managed  its  investment  securities  portfolio  to  improve  performance  in  the  increasing  rate 
environment.

Income on other interest earning assets increased $1.1 million, or 204.6%, to $1.6 million during the year 
ended December 31, 2018 compared to $539,000 during the same period in 2017 due to a combination of an increase 
in both the average balance and yield. Average other interest earning assets increased $30.2 million, or 65.7%, to 
$76.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $45.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. 
The increase was due primarily to an increase in interest earning deposits, as the Bank held more funds in interest 
earning accounts compared to the same period in 2017. The yield on other interest earning assets increased 99 basis 
points  to  2.16%  during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018  compared  to  1.17%  during  the  same  period  in  2017, 
reflecting a rise in market rates.

Interest Expense

Total interest expense increased $4.1 million, or 48.7%, to $12.4 million for the year ended December 31, 
2018 compared to $8.3 million for the same period in 2017 due primarily to an increase in the cost of funds. The cost 
of total interest bearing liabilities increased nine basis points to 0.42% for the year ended December 31, 2018 from 
0.33% for the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily as a result of rising interest rates. The increase in interest 
expense was secondarily due to an increase in the total average interest bearing liabilities which increased by $451.6 
million, or 17.9%, to $2.98 billion for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $2.53 billion for the year ended December 
31, 2017, primarily as a result of liabilities assumed in the Premier and Puget Mergers.

The Company was able to reduce the impact of the rising market interest rates by increasing the average 
balance of noninterest bearing deposits at a higher growth rate than for total interest bearing deposits. The average 
balance of noninterest bearing deposits increased by $337.9 million, or 37.4%, during the year ended December 31, 

52

 
 
 
 
 
2018 to $1.24 billion from $902.7 million for 2017, including $332.7 million acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers 
at the respective merger dates. The average balance of total interest bearing deposits increased $517.0 million, or 
21.8%, during the year ended December 31, 2018 to $2.89 billion from $2.38 billion for the same period in 2017. The 
cost of all deposit accounts increased seven basis points to 0.25% for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared 
to 0.18% for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Interest expense on FHLB advances and other borrowings decreased $555,000, or 45.3%, to $671,000 for 
the year ended December 31, 2018 from $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 due to a decrease in the 
average  balance,  partially  offset  by  an  increase  in  the  cost.  The  average  balance  for  FHLB  advances  and  other 
borrowings decreased $71.7 million to $33.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $105.6 million for the 
same period in 2017. The Company paid off all the outstanding FHLB advances during the third quarter of 2018. The 
average rate of the FHLB advances and other borrowings increased 82 basis points to 1.98% for the year ended 
December 31, 2018 compared to 1.16% for the same period in 2017 as a result of the increase in market rates.

The average cost of the junior subordinated debentures, including the effects of accretion of the discount 
established as of the date of the merger with Washington Banking Company, increased 116 basis points to 6.27% for 
the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 5.11% for the same period in 2017. The increase on the cost of 
debentures was due to an increase in the three-month LIBOR rate to 2.81% at December 31, 2018 from 1.69% on 
December 31, 2017.

Net Interest Margin

Net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased 36 basis points to 4.29% from 3.93%
for the same period in 2017 primarily due to the above mentioned changes in asset yields and costs of funds. The net 
interest spread for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased 32 basis points to 4.15% from 3.83% for the same 
period in 2017 primarily due to the increase in yield on total interest earning assets.

Net interest margin is impacted by the incremental accretion on purchased loans. The following table presents 
a reconciliation of the net interest margin calculated in accordance with GAAP to the net interest margin excluding the 
effect of the incremental accretion on purchased loans for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

Net interest margin (GAAP)

Exclude impact on net interest margin from incremental accretion on 

purchased loans(1)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

4.29%

0.18%

3.93%

0.18%

Net interest margin, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans 

(non-GAAP)(1) (2)

3.75%
(1)  As of the date of completion of each merger and acquisition transaction, purchased loans were recorded at their estimated 
fair value, including our estimate of future expected cash flows until the ultimate resolution of these credits. The difference 
between the contractual loan balance and the fair value represents the purchased discount. The purchased discount is 
accreted into income over the estimated remaining life of the loan or pool of loans, based upon results of the quarterly 
cash flow re-estimation. The incremental accretion income represents the amount of income recorded on the purchased 
loans in excess of the contractual stated interest rate in the individual loan notes.
(2) For additional information, see "Non-GAAP Financial Information."

4.11%

Provision for Loan Losses

The Bank has established a comprehensive methodology for determining its allowance for loan losses. The 
allowance for loan losses is increased by provisions for loan losses charged to expense, and is reduced by loans 
charged-off, net of loan recoveries or a recovery of previous provision. The amount of the provision expense recognized 
during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was calculated in accordance with the Bank's methodology. For 
additional information, see “—Critical Accounting Policies” above. 

The provision for loan losses is dependent on the Bank’s ability to manage asset quality and control the level 
of net charge-offs through prudent underwriting standards. In addition, a decline in general economic conditions could 
increase future provisions for loan losses and have a material effect on the Company’s net income.

The provision for loan losses increased $909,000, or 21.5% to $5.1 million for the year ended December 31, 
2018 from $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase in the provision for loan losses for the 
year ended December 31, 2018 from the same period in 2017 was primarily the result of increases in total loan balances 

53

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
during the year ended December 31, 2018. Based on a thorough review of the loan portfolio, the Bank determined 
that  the  provision  for  loan  losses  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018  was  appropriate  as  it  was  calculated  in 
accordance with the Bank's methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses.

Noninterest Income    

Total noninterest income decreased $3.9 million, or 11.0%, to $31.7 million for the year ended December 31, 
2018  compared  to  $35.6  million  for  the  same  period  in  2017. The  following  table  presents  the  change  in  the  key 
components of noninterest income for the periods noted:

Service charges and other fees

$

Gain on sale of investment securities, net

Gain on sale of loans, net

Interest rate swap fees

Other income

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

Change

(Dollars in thousands)

Percentage
Change

18,914 $
137
2,759

564
9,291

18,004 $

6

7,696

1,045

8,828

910

131

(4,937)

(481)

463

5.1 %

2,183.3

(64.2)

(46.0)

5.2

Total noninterest income

$

31,665 $

35,579 $

(3,914)

(11.0)%

Gain on sale of loans, net decreased $4.9 million, or 64.2% to $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 
2018 compared to $7.7 million for the same period in 2017 due primarily to a $3.0 million gain recognized during 2017 
as a result of the sale of a previously classified purchased credit impaired loan. The decrease in gain on sale of loans, 
net is also due to lower originations of loans held for sale. Volume from sale of mortgage loans decreased $42.2 million, 
or 34.8%, to $79.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 from $121.5 million for the same period in 2017. 
Volume from sale of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans decreased $10.1 million, or 50.3%, to $10.0 million for the 
year ended December 31, 2018 from $20.1 million for the same period in 2017. The lower volume of sales of mortgage 
loans  and  the  guaranteed  portion  of  SBA  loans  is  also  due  to  originating  more  of  these  type  of  loans  as  held  for 
investment that are retained as portfolio loans in loans receivable, net. The detail of gain on sale of loans, net is included 
in the following schedule:

Gain on sale of mortgage loans, net

Gain on sale of guaranteed portion of SBA loans, net

Gain on sale of other loans, net

     Gain on sale of loans, net

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

Change

(Dollars in thousands)

Percentage
Change

$

$

2,403 $
356

—
2,759 $

3,412 $

(1,009)

(29.6)%

1,286

2,998

7,696 $

(930)

(2,998)

(4,937)

(72.3)

(100.0)

(64.2)%

Interest rate swap fees decreased $481,000, or 46.0%, to $564,000 for the year ended December 31, 2018
compared to $1.0 million for the same period in 2017 as a result of fewer borrower requests for interest rate swap 
transactions.

The decrease in total noninterest income was partially mitigated by an increase in service charges and other 
fees of $910,000, or 5.1%, to $18.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to $18.0 million for the 
same period in 2017, due primarily to an increase in deposit balances from acquisition and organic growth and changes 
in fee structures on deposit accounts, including a business deposit consolidation process completed during the second 
quarter 2017.

Additionally, other income increased $463,000, or 5.2%, to $9.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 
compared to $8.8 million for the same period in 2017, due primarily to the total gain of $798,000 on the sales of a 
branch and a former administrative building during the year ended December 31, 2018.

54

Noninterest Expense  

Noninterest expense increased $38.8 million, or 35.1%, to $149.4 million during the year ended December 
31, 2018 compared to $110.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The following table presents changes in 
the key components of noninterest expense for the periods noted:

Compensation and employee benefits

$

Occupancy and equipment

Data processing

Marketing

Professional services

State and local taxes

Federal deposit insurance premium

Other real estate owned, net

Amortization of intangible assets

Other expense

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

Change

Percentage
Change

86,830 $
19,779

9,888

3,228

9,670

3,210

1,480

106
3,819

11,385

(Dollars in thousands)
64,268 $

22,562

15,396

8,176

2,943

4,777

2,461

1,435

(70)

1,286

9,903

4,383

1,712

285

4,893

749

45

176

2,533

1,482

35.1%

28.5

20.9

9.7

102.4

30.4

3.1

(251.4)

197.0

15.0

Total noninterest expense

$

149,395 $

110,575 $

38,820

35.1%

The Company incurred significant acquisition-related expenses as a result of the Premier and Puget Mergers. 

The following table presents these expenses by key component in the following table:

Compensation and employee benefits

Occupancy and equipment

Data processing

Marketing

Professional services

Other expense

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

$

(In thousands)
5,455 $

45

1,365

24

3,046

456

Total merger related expenses

$

10,391 $

—

2

113

1

690

4

810

Compensation and employee benefits increased $22.6 million, or 35.1%, to $86.8 million during the year ended 
December 31, 2018 from $64.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily as a result of additional 
employees, mostly due to the Premier and Puget Mergers, including increases in senior level staffing. The average 
full time equivalent employees increased to 840 for the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 749 for the same 
period in 2017. Compensation and employee benefits additionally increased due to acquisition-related payments for 
change-in-control bonuses and severance related to the Premier and Puget Mergers of $5.5 million during the year 
ended December 31, 2018 and increases in standard salary rates.

Professional services increased $4.9 million, or 102.4%, to $9.7 million during the year ended December 31, 
2018  from  $4.8  million  during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2017  primarily  due  to  an  increase  of  $2.4  million  in 
professional services acquisition costs. The increase was additionally the result of the buy-out of a third party contract 
in the amount of $1.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2018. The third party assisted the Company in its 
deposit  product  realignment  and  was  compensated  based  on  success  factors  over  three  years  subsequent  to 
implementation. The Company assessed the contract and determined that it was advantageous to buy-out the contract 
prior to the system conversions relating to the Premier and Puget Mergers. The Company expects the accumulated 
savings in future professional services expenses to fully offset the cost of the buy-out by the end of 2019. 

Occupancy and equipment increased $4.4 million, or 28.5%, to $19.8 million during the year ended December 
31, 2018 from $15.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 due substantially to branch or other leased 
space expansion in the Seattle, Bellevue, Portland and other Oregon markets. The Bellevue expansion included the 

55

lease acquired from the Puget Sound Merger and additional space leased subsequent to the merger. The Oregon 
expansion included five leases acquired in the Premier Merger.

Amortization of intangible assets increased $2.5 million, or 197.0%, to $3.8 million during the year ended 
December  31,  2018  from  $1.3  million  during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2017  primarily  a  result  of  additional 
amortization related to acquired core deposit intangibles from the Premier and Puget Mergers of $2.7 million during 
the year ended December 31, 2018.

Data processing increased $1.7 million, or 20.9%, to $9.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 
from $8.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 primarily due to acquisition-related costs for core system 
conversions. The increase in the year ended December 31, 2018 compared to 2017 was additionally due to higher 
transactional activity as a result of the Premier and Puget Mergers and organic growth in loans and deposits. 

The ratio of noninterest expense to average total assets was 3.00% for the year ended December 31, 2018, 
compared to 2.78% for the year ended December 31, 2017. The increase was primarily a result of increased expenses 
including acquisition-related costs and increases in amortization of intangible assets as a result of the Premier and 
Puget Mergers during the year ended December 31, 2018. 

Income Tax Expense 

Income tax expense decreased $7.3 million, or 39.9%, to $11.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018
from $18.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017. The effective tax rate was 17.2% for the year ended December 
31, 2018 compared to 30.5% for the same period in 2017. The decrease in the income tax expense and effective tax 
rate during the year ended December 31, 2018 was primarily due to the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted 
in December 2017 which lowered the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%. The decrease in the effective 
tax rate was partially offset by a change in the estimated current tax benefits form certain low income housing tax 
credit projects which increased income tax expense in the amount of $898,000 in 2018. Although long-term tax benefits 
from the projects is still expected to occur, the timing of some of the benefits was extended to future periods.

Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 

Earnings Summary

Net income was $41.8 million, or $1.39 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $38.9 million, or $1.30 per diluted common share, for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase 
in net income of $2.9 million, or 7.4%, for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the year ended December 
31, 2016 was primarily the result of an increase in net interest income of $6.9 million, or 5.2%, and an increase in total 
noninterest income of $4.0 million, or 12.5%, partially offset by an increase in income tax expense of $4.6 million, or 
33.0%, and an increase in total noninterest expense of $4.1 million, or 3.9%.

The net interest margin decreased three basis points to 3.93% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared 

to 3.96% for the same period in 2016 primarily due to a decrease in loan yields.

The Company’s efficiency ratio improved to 63.21% for the year ended December 31, 2017 from 64.87% for 
the year ended December 31, 2016. The improvement in the efficiency ratio for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to the year ended December 31, 2016 was primarily attributable to the increases in net interest income and 
noninterest income.

Net Interest Income

Net interest income increased $6.9 million, or 5.2%, to $139.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $132.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in net interest income was primarily 
due to increases in average interest earning assets and yields on interest earning assets. 

Interest Income

Total interest income increased $9.2 million, or 6.6%, to $147.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $138.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The balance of average interest earning assets 
increased $201.5 million, or 6.0%, to $3.55 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017 from $3.35 billion for the 
year ended December 31, 2016. The yield on total interest earning assets increased two basis points to 4.16% for the 
year ended December 31, 2017 from 4.14% for the year ended December 31, 2016. 

Interest income from interest and fees on loans increased $7.1 million, or 5.8%, to $129.2 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2017 from $122.1 million for the same period in 2016 due primarily to an increase in average 

56

 
loans receivable, offset partially by a decrease in average loan yields. Average loans receivable increased $214.2 
million, or 8.6%, to $2.70 billion for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $2.49 billion for the year ended 
December 31, 2016 as a result of loan growth. Average loan yields decreased 13 basis points to 4.78% for the year 
ended December 31, 2017 from 4.91% for the year ended December 31, 2016.  While variable indexed rates had 
increased during 2017, loan yield, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans, decreased seven basis points 
to 4.55% for the year  ended December  31, 2017  compared to 4.62%  for the  year ended 2016  due primarily  to a 
combination of lower consumer indirect loan yields during 2017, fewer payments in 2017 to resolve nonperforming or 
charged-off  loans  and  lower  prepayment  penalties  received  in  2017  as  compared  to  2016.   Average  loan  yields 
secondarily decreased as a result of a decrease in incremental accretion income on purchased loans, which had the 
impact of loan yields of 0.23% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 0.29% for the year ended December 
31, 2017. Incremental accretion income was $6.3 million and $7.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 
2016, respectively. The decrease in the incremental accretion was primarily a result of a continued decline in the 
purchased loan balances and a decrease in the prepayments of purchased loans during the year ended December 
31, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. The incremental accretion and the impact to loan yield will change 
during any period based on the volume of prepayments, but is expected to decrease over time as the balance of the 
purchased loans continues to decrease.

The following table presents the average loan yield and effects of the incremental accretion on purchased 

loans for the year ended December 31, 2017 and 2016:

Loan yield (GAAP)

Exclude impact on loan yield from incremental accretion on purchased 
loans(1)

Loan yield, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans (non-GAAP)(1)(2)

Year Ended December 31,

2017
2016
(Dollars in thousands)

4.78%

0.23

4.55%

4.91%

0.29

4.62%

Incremental accretion on purchased loans(1)

$

6,320

$

7,155

(1)  As of the date of completion of each merger and acquisition transaction, purchased loans were recorded at their estimated 
fair value, including our estimate of future expected cash flows until the ultimate resolution of these credits. The difference 
between the contractual loan balance and the fair value represents the purchased discount. The purchased discount is 
accreted into income over the estimated remaining life of the loan or pool of loans, based upon results of the quarterly 
cash flow re-estimation. The incremental accretion income represents the amount of income recorded on the purchased 
loans in excess of the contractual stated interest rate in the individual loan notes.

(2) For additional information, see "Non-GAAP Financial Information." 

Total interest income increased primarily due to the increase in interest and fees on loans discussed above 
and secondarily due to an increase in interest income on investment securities of $1.9 million, or 11.6%, to $18.0 
million during the year ended December 31, 2017 from $16.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The 
increase in interest income on investment securities was the result of an increase in average investment yields for the 
year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016, offset partially by a decrease in the average 
balance of investment securities. Average yields on taxable securities increased 32 basis points to 2.22% for the year 
ended December 31, 2017 from 1.90% for the same period in 2016. The increase is primarily the result of the rise in 
interest rates on the adjustable rate investment securities. Average yields on nontaxable securities increased 12 basis 
points to 2.32% for the year ended December 31, 2017 from 2.20% for the same period in 2016. The average balance 
of investment securities decreased $13.7 million, or 1.7%, to $797.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 
from $811.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company has actively managed its investment 
securities portfolio to mitigate declines in loan yields.

Average other interest earning assets increased $1.0 million, or 2.24%, to $46.0 million for the year ended 
December 31, 2017 compared to $45.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase was due primarily 
to an increase in interest earning deposits, as the Bank held more funds in interest earning accounts at the Federal 
Reserve Bank of San Francisco compared to the same period in 2016.

57

 
Interest Expense

Total interest expense increased $2.3 million, or 39.0%, to $8.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $6.0 million for the same period in 2016. The average cost of interest bearing liabilities increased eight 
basis points to 0.33% for the year ended December 31, 2017 from 0.25% for the year ended December 31, 2016. 
Total average interest bearing liabilities increased $135.8 million, or 5.7%, to $2.53 billion for the year ended December 
31, 2017 from $2.39 billion for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in costs from the prior year was 
primarily a result of increases in market rates and the increased use of higher cost borrowings to fund asset growth.

The average cost of interest bearing deposits increased four basis points to 0.25% for the year ended December 

31, 2017 from 0.21% for the same period in 2016 due primarily to an increase in the cost of savings accounts.

Interest  expense  on  savings  accounts  increased  $555,000,  or  73.4%,  to  $1.3  million  for  the  year  ended 
December 31, 2017 from $756,000 for the same period in 2016 due to increases in both the average balance and cost 
of savings accounts. The average balance of savings accounts increased $14.0 million, or 2.9%, to $499.4 million for 
the year ended December 31, 2017 from $485.5 million for the same period in 2016. The cost of savings accounts 
increased ten basis points to 0.26% for the year ended December 31, 2017 from 0.16% for the same period in 2016. 

Interest expense of certificate of deposit accounts increased $308,000, or 15.91%, to $2.2 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2017. The average balance of certificate of deposit accounts decreased $10.2 million, or 2.64%, 
to $378.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $388.3 million for the year ended December 31, 
2016 while the cost of certificate of deposit accounts increased to 0.59% for the year ended December 31, 2017 from 
0.50% for the same period in 2016.

Interest  expense  on  FHLB  advances  and  other  borrowings  increased  to  $1.2  million  for  the  year  ended 
December 31, 2017 from $74,000 for the year ended December 31, 2016 due to a combination of an increase in 
average balances and an increase in the cost of funds. The average balance for FHLB advances and other borrowings 
increased $92.3 million to $105.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 from $13.3 million for the same period 
in 2016, due primarily to fund loan growth. The average rate of the FHLB advances and other borrowings increased 
61 basis points for the year ended December 31, 2017 to 1.16% from 0.55% for the same period in 2016.

The  average  rate  of  the  junior  subordinated  debentures,  including  the  effects  of  accretion  of  the  discount 
established as of the date of the merger with Washington Banking Company, was 5.11% for the year ended December 
31, 2017, an increase of 61 basis points from 4.50% for the same period in 2016. The rate increase on the debentures 
was  due  primarily  to  an  increase  in  the  three-month  LIBOR  rate  to  1.69%  at  December 31,  2017  from  1.00%  on 
December 31, 2016.

Net Interest Margin

Net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2017 decreased three basis points to 3.93% from 3.96% 
for the same period in 2016 primarily due to the above mentioned decrease in the loan yields (both including and 
excluding the impact of incremental accretion on purchased loans) and increase in cost of funds, offset partially by 
the increase in average loan receivable balances and the increase in yields on taxable and nontaxable securities. The 
net interest spread for the year ended December 31, 2017 decreased six basis points to 3.83% from 3.89% for the 
same period in 2016. 

58

 
 
 
 
 
Net interest margin is impacted by the incremental accretion on purchased loans. The following table presents 
the net interest margin and effects of the incremental accretion on purchased loans for the year ended December 31, 
2017 and 2016:

Net interest margin (GAAP)

Exclude impact on net interest margin from incremental accretion on 

purchased loans(1)

Year Ended December 31,

2017

2016

(Dollars in thousands)

3.93%

0.18

3.96%

0.21

Net interest margin, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans 

(non-GAAP)(1) (2)

3.75%
(1)  As of the date of completion of each merger and acquisition transaction, purchased loans were recorded at their estimated 
fair value, including our estimate of future expected cash flows until the ultimate resolution of these credits. The difference 
between the contractual loan balance and the fair value represents the purchased discount. The purchased discount is 
accreted into income over the estimated remaining life of the loan or pool of loans, based upon results of the quarterly 
cash flow re-estimation. The incremental accretion income represents the amount of income recorded on the purchased 
loans in excess of the contractual stated interest rate in the individual loan notes.
(2) For additional information, see "Non-GAAP Financial Information." 

3.75%

Provision for Loan Losses

The amount of the provision expense recognized during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was 
calculated in accordance with the Bank's methodology. For additional information, see “—Critical Accounting Policies” 
above. The provision for loan losses decreased $711,000, or 14.4% to $4.2 million for the year ended December 31, 
2017 from $4.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The decrease in the provision for loan losses for the 
year ended December 31, 2017 from the same period in 2016 was primarily the result of continued improvements in 
our asset quality, changes in the volume and mix of loans, changes in certain environmental factors and improvements 
in certain historical loss factors, partially offset by the impact of loan growth. Based on a thorough review of the loan 
portfolio, the Bank determined that the provision for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2017 was appropriate 
as it was calculated in accordance with the Bank's methodology for determining the allowance for loan losses.

Noninterest Income    

Total noninterest income increased $4.0 million, or 12.5%, to $35.6 million for the year ended December 31, 
2017 compared to $31.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The following table presents the change in 
the key components of noninterest income for the periods noted:

Year Ended December 31,

2017

Change 
2017 vs. 
2016
(Dollars in thousands)

2016

Percentage
Change

Service charges and other fees

Gain on sale of investment securities, net

$

18,004 $
6

7,696

1,045

8,828

14,354 $

1,315

6,994

1,854

7,102

3,650

(1,309)

702

(809)

1,726

3,960

25.4%

(99.5)

10.0

(43.6)

24.3

12.5%

$

35,579 $

31,619 $

Gain on sale of loans, net

Interest rate swap fees

Other income

     Total noninterest income

Service charges and other fees increased $3.7 million, or 25.4% to $18.0 million for the year ended December 
31, 2017 compared to $14.4 million for the same period in 2016, due primarily to an increase in deposit balances and 
changes in fee structures on deposit accounts, including a consumer deposit account consolidation process completed 
at the end of 2016 and a business deposit consolidation process completed during second quarter 2017.

Other income increased $1.7 million, or 24.3%, to $8.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared 
to $7.1 million for the same period in 2016, due primarily to net gain on sales of two former Heritage Bank branches 
held for sale of $682,000 recognized during the year ended December 31, 2017 and increases in recoveries of zero 
balance purchased loan notes which were charged-off prior to the consummation of the related merger acquisition.  

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain on sale of loans, net increased $702,000, or 10.0% to $7.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $7.0 million for the same period in 2016, due primarily to an increase in gain on sale of other loans of 
$743,000. During both years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Bank sold one loan previously classified as 
purchased credit impaired for gain on sale. Secondarily, gain on sale of guaranteed portion of SBA loans, net increased 
$270,000 due primarily to an increase in proceeds from sale of the guaranteed portion of SBA loans of $3.3 million, 
or 19.4%, to $20.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $16.8 million for the same period in 
2016. The detail of gain on sale of loans, net is included in the following schedule:

Gain on sale of mortgage loans, net

Gain on sale of guaranteed portion of SBA loans, net

Gain on sale of other loans, net

     Gain on sale of loans, net

Year Ended December 31,

2017

2016

Change
2017 vs.
2016

Percentage
Change

(Dollars in thousands)

$

$

3,412 $
1,286

2,998
7,696 $

3,723 $

(311)

(8.4)%

1,016

2,255

6,994 $

270

743

702

26.6

32.9

10.0 %

The increase in noninterest income was partially offset by a decrease in gain on sale of investment securities, 
net to $6,000 for the year ended December 31, 2017 from $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The 
decrease was primarily the result of fewer sales as the Bank actively managed its investment portfolio. The proceeds 
from sale of investment securities was $31.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $140.4 million 
for the same period in 2016.

Noninterest Expense  

Noninterest expense increased $4.1 million, or 3.9%, to $110.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to $106.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The following table presents changes in the key 
components of noninterest expense for the periods noted:

Year Ended December 31,

2017

2016

Change
2016 vs.
2015

Percentage
Change

(Dollars in thousands)

Compensation and employee benefits

$

64,268 $

61,405 $

2,863

Occupancy and equipment

15,396

15,763

Data processing

Marketing

Professional services

State and local taxes

Federal deposit insurance premium

Other real estate owned, net

Amortization of intangible assets

Other expense

     Total noninterest expense

8,176

2,943

4,777

2,461

1,435

(70)

1,286

9,903

7,312

2,835

3,606

2,616

1,620

334

1,415

9,567

(367)

864

108

1,171

(155)

(185)

(404)

(129)

336

4.7%

(2.3)

11.8

3.8

32.5

(5.9)

(11.4)

(121.0)

(9.1)

3.5

3.9%

$ 110,575 $ 106,473 $

4,102

Compensation and employee benefits increased $2.9 million, or 4.7%, to $64.3 million during the year ended 
December 31, 2017 from $61.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in the year ended 
December 31, 2017 compared to 2016 was primarily due to senior level staffing increases, including the addition of 
the new Portland, Oregon lending team members who started in May 2017, and standard salary increases.

Professional services increased $1.2 million, or 32.5%, to $4.8 million during the year ended December 31, 
2017 from $3.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in the year ended December 31, 2017 
compared to 2016 was primarily due to due to benefit-based consulting fees related to the consumer deposit account 
consolidation process, which correspondingly generated an increase in service charges and other fees. Professional 
services also increased as a result of Trust-related expenses based on a renegotiated contract for 2017, which also 

60

 
increased other noninterest income, and costs incurred in the Puget Sound Merger of $690,000 during the year ended 
December 31, 2017. 

Data processing increased $864,000, or 11.8%, to $8.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2017 
from $7.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 primarily due to higher transactional activity in the core 
operating system and internet banking as a result of the growth in loans and deposits and costs incurred in the Puget 
Sound Merger of $113,000 during the year ended December 31, 2017.

Other real estate owned, net decreased $404,000 or 121.0%, to income of $70,000 during the year ended 
December 31, 2017 compared to expense of $334,000 during the year ended December 31, 2016. The Bank had no 
other real estate owned at year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $754,000 at year ended December 31, 2016. 
The income recorded during the year ended December 31, 2017 was due to gain on sale of properties of $144,000, 
partially offset by maintenance expense of $75,000. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Bank recorded a 
valuation adjustment of $383,000 and maintenance expense of $124,000, which was partially offset by the gain on 
sale of properties of $173,000. 

The  ratio  of  noninterest  expense  to  average  assets  was  2.78%  for  the  year  ended  December  31,  2017, 
compared to 2.84% for the year ended December 31, 2016. The decrease was primarily a result of an increase in 
assets and cost efficiencies gained through efforts by the Company to manage discretionary expenses.

Income Tax Expense 

Income tax expense increased by $4.6 million, or 33.0%, to $18.4 million for the year ended December 31, 
2017 from $13.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The increase in the income tax expense during the 
year ended December 31, 2017 was primarily due to higher pre-tax net income and the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted 
December 22, 2017, which required a revaluation of deferred tax assets and liabilities to account for the future impact 
of the decrease in the federal corporate income tax rate to 21% from 35% and other provisions of the legislation. The 
estimated revaluation of the net deferred tax asset increased income tax expense by $2.6 million for the year ended 
December 31, 2017. Certain amounts of the revaluation are considered reasonable estimates of the impact of the 
legislation as of December 31, 2017.

The effective tax rate was 30.5% for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to 26.2% for the same 
period in 2016. The increase in the effective tax rate during the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the same 
period in 2016 was due primarily to the revaluation of net deferred tax asset as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 
and a lower proportion of tax-exempt income to total pre-tax income. For additional information, see Note (21) Income 
Taxes of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary 
Data.”

Non-GAAP Financial Information

This  report  contains  certain  financial  information  determined  by  methods  other  than  in  accordance  with 
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These measures include net interest income, 
interest and fees on loans, and loan yield and net interest margin excluding the effect of the incremental accretion on 
purchased loans acquired through mergers. Our management uses these non-GAAP measures, together with the 
related GAAP measures, in its analysis of our performance and in making business decisions. Management also uses 
these  measures  for  peer  comparisons.  Management  believes  that  presenting  loan  yield  and  net  interest  margin 
excluding the effect of the acquisition accounting discount accretion on loans acquired through mergers is useful in 
assessing the impact of acquisition accounting on loan yield and net interest margin, as the effect of loan discount 
accretion is expected to decrease as the acquired loans mature or roll off our balance sheet. These disclosures should 
not  be  viewed  as  substitutes  for  the  results  determined  to  be  in  accordance  with  GAAP,  nor  are  they  necessarily 
comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies.

61

Reconciliations of the GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures on net interest income, interest and fees on loans, 
loan yield and net interest margin are presented below:

Net interest income and interest and fees on loans:
Net interest income (GAAP)

Exclude incremental accretion on purchased loans

Adjusted net interest income (non-GAAP)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(Dollars in thousands)

$

$

186,946

7,964

178,982

$

$

139,363

6,320

133,043

$

$

132,506

7,155

125,351

Average total interest earning assets, net

Net interest margin, annualized (GAAP)

Net interest margin, excluding incremental accretion on

purchased loans, annualized (non-GAAP)

$ 4,358,643

$ 3,547,786

$ 3,346,256

4.29%

4.11%

3.93%

3.75%

3.96%

3.75%

Interest and fees on loans (GAAP)

Exclude incremental accretion on purchased loans

Adjusted interest and fees on loans (non-GAAP)

$

$

175,466

7,964

167,502

$

$

129,213

6,320

122,893

$

$

122,147

7,155

114,992

Average total loans receivable, net

Loan yield, annualized (GAAP)

Loan yield, excluding incremental accretion on purchased loans,

annualized (non-GAAP)

$ 3,414,424

$ 2,703,934

$ 2,489,730

5.14%

4.91%

4.78%

4.55%

4.91%

4.62%

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our  primary  sources  of  funds  are  customer  and  local  government  deposits,  loan  principal  and  interest 
payments, loan sales, interest earned on and proceeds from sales and maturities of investment securities. These 
funds, together with retained earnings, equity and other borrowed funds, are used to make loans, acquire investment 
securities and other assets, and fund continuing operations. While maturities and scheduled amortization of loans are 
a predictable source of funds, deposit flows and loan prepayments are greatly influenced by the level of interest rates, 
economic conditions, and competition.

We  must  maintain  an  adequate  level  of  liquidity  to  ensure  the  availability  of  sufficient  funds  to  fund  loan 
originations and deposit withdrawals, satisfy other financial commitments, and fund operations. We generally maintain 
sufficient cash and investments to meet short-term liquidity needs. At December 31, 2018, cash and cash equivalents 
totaled  $161.9  million,  or  3.0%,  of  total  assets.  Investment  securities  available  for  sale  totaled  $976.1  million  at 
December 31,  2018,  of  which  $264.7  million  were  pledged  to  secure  public  deposits,  borrowing  arrangements  or 
repurchase agreements. Management considers unpledged investment securities available for sale to be a viable 
source of liquidity. The fair value of investment securities available for sale that were not pledged to secure public 
deposits,  borrowing  arrangements  or  repurchase  agreements  totaled  $711.4  million,  or  13.4%,  of  total  assets  at 
December 31,  2018. The  fair  value  of  investment  securities  available  for  sale  with  maturities  of  one  year  or  less 
amounted to $38.5 million, or 0.72%, of total assets. At December 31, 2018, the Bank maintained credit facilities with 
the FHLB of Des Moines for $921.7 million, of which there were no of borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 
2018, and credit facilities with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco for $37.4 million, of which there were no 
borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2018. The Bank also maintains advance lines with Wells Fargo Bank, US 
Bank, The Independent Bankers Bank and Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bank to purchase federal funds totaling $90.0 million 
as of December 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2018, there were no overnight federal funds purchased.

Our strategy has been to acquire core deposits (which we define to include all deposits except public funds, 
brokered certificate of deposit accounts and other wholesale deposits) from our retail accounts, acquire noninterest 
bearing demand deposits from our commercial customers and use our available borrowing capacity to fund growth in 
assets. We anticipate that we will continue to rely on the same sources of funds in the future and use those funds 
primarily to make loans and purchase investment securities.

62

 
 
Contractual Obligations

The following table provides the amounts due under specified contractual obligations for the periods indicated 

as of December 31, 2018:

One Year or
Less

One to
Three Years

December 31, 2018

Over Three
to Five
Years

Over Five
Years

(In thousands)

Other (1)

Total

Contractual payments

by period:

Deposits

Junior subordinated

debentures

Operating leases

Total contractual
obligations

$

313,830 $

108,283 $

44,761 $

18 $ 3,965,510 $ 4,432,402

—
4,766

—
6,728

—
3,272

25,000
1,788

—
—

25,000
16,554

$

318,596 $

115,011 $

48,033 $

26,806 $ 3,965,510 $ 4,473,956

(1) Represents interest bearing and noninterest bearing checking, money market and checking accounts which can generally 

be withdrawn on demand and thereby have an undefined maturity.

Asset/Liability Management

Our primary financial objective is to achieve long-term profitability while controlling our exposure to fluctuations 
in market interest rates. To accomplish this objective, we have formulated an interest rate risk management policy that 
attempts to manage the mismatch between asset and liability maturities while maintaining an acceptable interest rate 
sensitivity position. The principal strategies which we employ to control our interest rate sensitivity are: originating 
certain commercial business loans and real estate construction and land development loans at variable interest rates 
repricing for terms generally one year or less; and offering noninterest bearing demand deposit accounts to businesses 
and individuals. The longer-term objective is to increase the proportion of noninterest bearing demand deposits, low-
rate interest bearing demand deposits, money market accounts, and savings deposits relative to certificate of deposit 
accounts to reduce our overall cost of funds.

A number of measures are used to monitor and manage interest rate risk, including income simulations, interest 
sensitivity (gap) analysis and economic value of equity sensitivity. An income simulation model is the primary tool used 
to assess the direction and magnitude of changes in net interest income resulting from changes in interest rates. Key 
assumptions in the model include prepayment speeds on loans and investment securities, decay rates on non-maturity 
deposits, and pricing on investment securities, loans, deposits and borrowings. In order to measure the interest rate 
risk  sensitivity  as  of  December 31,  2018,  this  simulation  model  uses  a  “no  growth”  assumption  and  assumes  an 
instantaneous and sustained uniform change in market interest rates at all maturities. These assumptions are inherently 
uncertain and, as a result, the net interest income projections should be viewed as an estimate of the net interest 
income sensitivity at the time of the analysis. Actual results will differ from simulated results due to timing, magnitude 
and frequency of interest rate changes and changes in market conditions and management strategies, among other 
factors.

Based on the results of the simulation model as of December 31, 2018, we would expect increases in net 
interest income of $8.0 million and $14.3 million in year one and year two, respectively, if interest rates increased from 
current rates by 100 basis points. We would expect an increase in net interest income of $16.1 million and $28.7 million 
in year one and year two, respectively, if interest rates increased from current rates by 200 basis points. If interest 
rates decreased by 100 basis points, we would expect decreases of $8.3 million and $14.7 million in year one and 
year two, respectively.

Our asset and liability management strategies have resulted in a negative less than 3 month “gap” of 34.1%
as of December 31, 2018. This “gap” measures the difference between the dollar amount of our interest earning assets 
and interest bearing liabilities that mature or reprice within the designated period (three months or less) as a percentage 
of total interest earning assets, based on certain estimates and assumptions as discussed below. We believe that the 
implementation of our operating strategies has reduced the potential effects of changes in market interest rates on 

63

 
 
 
our results of operations. The negative gap for the less than three month period indicates that decreases in market 
interest rates may favorably affect our results over that period.

The following table provides the estimated maturity or repricing and the resulting interest rate sensitivity gap 
of our interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities at December 31, 2018. We used certain assumptions in 
presenting this data so the amounts may not be consistent with other financial information prepared in accordance 
with generally accepted accounting principles. The amounts in the tables also could be significantly affected by external 
factors, such as changes in prepayment assumptions, early withdrawal of deposits and competition.

December 31, 2018

Estimated Maturity or Repricing Within

Three Months
or Less

Over Three 
Months to 12
Months

Over One to
Five Years

Over Five to 
15
Years

Over
15 Years

Total

(Dollars in thousands)

$

938,334

$

234,894

$ 1,737,157

$

655,536

$

84,730

$ 3,650,651

167,513

69,206

74,657

—

220,039

303,035

210,851

—

—

—

976,095

69,206

$ 1,175,053

$

309,551

$ 1,957,196

$

958,571

$

295,581

$ 4,695,952

25.0 %

6.6 %

41.7%

20.4%

6.3%

100.0%

$ 2,722,519

$

193,211

$

154,326

$

78

$

— $ 3,070,134

20,302

31,487

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

20,302

31,487

$ 2,774,308

$

193,211

$

154,326

$

78

$

— $ 3,121,923

59.1 %

4.1 %

3.3%

—%

—%

66.5%

Interest Earnings Assets:
Loans receivable (1)
Investment securities

Interest earning deposits

Total interest earning

assets

Percentage of interest

earning assets

Interest Bearing
Liabilities:

Total interest bearing 

deposits (2)

Junior subordinated

debentures

Securities sold under

agreement to repurchase

Total interest bearing

liabilities

Interest bearing liabilities,
as a percentage of total
interest earning assets

Interest rate sensitivity gap

$(1,599,255)

$

116,340

$ 1,802,870

$

958,493

$

295,581

$ 1,574,029

Interest rate sensitivity gap,
as a percentage of total
interest earning assets

Cumulative interest rate

sensitivity gap

(34.1)%

2.5 %

38.4%

20.4%

6.3%

33.5%

$(1,599,255)

$(1,482,915)

$

319,955

$ 1,278,448

$ 1,574,029

Cumulative interest rate
sensitivity gap, as a
percentage of total
interest earning assets

(34.1)%
(1) Excludes net deferred loan costs and allowance for loan losses.
(2) Adjustable-rate liabilities are included in the period in which interest rates are next scheduled to adjust rather than in 
the period they are due to mature. Although regular savings, demand, NOW, and money market deposit accounts are 
subject to immediate withdrawal, based on historical experience management considers a substantial amount of such 
accounts to be core deposits having significantly longer maturities. 

(31.6)%

27.2%

33.5%

6.8%

Certain shortcomings are inherent in the method of analysis presented in the foregoing table. For example, 
although certain assets and liabilities may have similar maturities or periods to repricing, they may react in different 
degrees to changes in market interest rates. Also, the interest rates on some types of assets and liabilities may fluctuate 
in advance of changes in market interest rates, while interest rates on other types may lag behind changes in market 
interest rates. Additionally, some assets, such as adjustable rate mortgages, have features, which restrict changes in 

64

 
 
 
 
the interest rates of those assets both on a short-term basis and over the lives of such assets. Further, if a change in 
market interest rates occurs, prepayment and early withdrawal levels could deviate significantly from those assumed 
in calculating the tables. Finally, the ability of many borrowers to service their adjustable rate debt may decrease if 
market interest rates increase substantially.

The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest 
rates as of December 31, 2018. The table presents principal cash flows and related weighted average interest rates 
by expected maturity dates. The expected maturity is the contractual maturity or earlier call date of the instrument. 
The data in this table may not be consistent with the amounts in the preceding table, which represents amounts by 
the estimated repricing date or maturity date, whichever occurs sooner.

By Expected Maturity Date

Year Ended December 31, 2018

Three
Months or
Less

Over Three
Months to
12 Months

Over One
Year to
Five Years

Over Five
Years to 15
Years

Over
15 Years

Total

Fair Value

(Dollars in thousands)

Investment Securities

Amounts maturing:

Fixed rate

Weighted average
interest rate

Adjustable rate

Weighted average
interest rate

$ 58,389

$ 60,650

$ 179,649

$ 300,244

$ 210,851

$ 809,783

3.13%

2.81%

2.79%

2.85%

2.81%

2.84%

$

4,141

$

207

$ 11,926

$

45,338

$ 104,700

$ 166,312

3.65%

0.94%

3.88%

3.04%

3.21%

3.22%

Total

$ 62,530

$ 60,857

$ 191,575

$ 345,582

$ 315,551

$ 976,095

$

976,095

Loans (1)
Amounts maturing:

Fixed rate

Weighted average
interest rate

Adjustable rate

Weighted average
interest rate

$ 30,154

$ 65,986

$ 573,664

$ 558,100

$ 84,730

$ 1,312,634

5.37%

5.31%

4.65%

4.44%

4.50%

4.60%

$ 184,381

$ 310,472

$ 224,609

$1,401,867

$ 216,688

$ 2,338,017

6.20%

6.06%

5.55%

4.71%

5.09%

5.13%

Total

$ 214,535

$ 376,458

$ 798,273

$1,959,967

$ 301,418

$ 3,650,651

$ 3,614,348

Certificate of Deposit

Accounts

Amounts maturing:

Fixed rate

Weighted average
interest rate

Junior Subordinated

Debentures

Amounts maturing:

$ 122,420

$ 191,410

$ 153,044

$

18

$

— $ 466,892

$

470,222

0.80%

0.96%

1.52%

0.78%

—%

1.10%

Adjustable rate

$

— $

— $

— $

— $ 20,302

$

20,302

$

20,500

Weighted average 
interest rate (2)

—%

—%
(1)  Excludes deferred loan costs (fees), net and allowance for loan losses.
(2)  The contractual interest rate of the junior subordinated debentures was 4.37% at December 31, 2018. The weighted 
average  interest  rate  includes  the  effects  of  the  discount  accretion  for  the  Washington  Banking  Merger  purchase 
accounting adjustment.

6.27%

6.27%

—%

—%

65

 
 
 
 
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

Inflation affects our operations by increasing operating costs and indirectly by affecting the operations and 
cash  flow  of  our  customers.  Unlike  most  industrial  companies,  virtually  all  the  assets  and  liabilities  of  a  financial 
institution are monetary in nature. As a result, changes in interest rates generally have a more significant impact on a 
financial institution’s performance than the effects of general levels of inflation. Although interest rates do not necessarily 
move in the same direction or the same extent as the prices of goods and services, increases in inflation generally 
have resulted in increased interest rates.

ITEM 7A.  

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to interest rate risk through our lending and deposit gathering activities. For a discussion of 
how this exposure is managed and the nature of changes in our interest rate risk profile during the past year, see 
Item 7. Management’s Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations.

Neither we, nor the Bank, maintain a trading account for any class of financial instrument, nor do we, or the 
Bank, engage in hedging activities or purchase high risk derivative instruments. Moreover, neither we, nor the Bank, 
are subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk or commodity price risk.

ITEM 8.  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Stockholders and the Board of Directors of Heritage Financial Corporation
Olympia, Washington

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition of Heritage Financial Corporation 
and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of income, 
comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended 
December 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements").  We also have audited 
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in the 
2013 Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position 
of the Company as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of 
the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted 
in the United States of America.  Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal 
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control - 
Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control 
over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included 
in  the  accompanying  Management’s  Report  on  Internal  Control  over  Financial  Reporting.    Our  responsibility  is  to 
express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over 
financial reporting based on our audits.  We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting 
Oversight  Board  (United  States)  ("PCAOB")  and  are  required  to  be  independent  with  respect  to  the  Company  in 
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange 
Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and 
perform  the  audits  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  financial  statements  are  free  of  material 
misstatement,  whether  due  to  error  or  fraud,  and  whether  effective  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  was 
maintained in all material respects.

66

Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of 
the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such 
procedures  included  examining,  on  a  test  basis,  evidence  regarding  the  amounts  and  disclosures  in  the  financial 
statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by 
management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our audit of internal control 
over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the 
risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal 
control based on the assessed risk.  As permitted, the Company has excluded the operations of Premier Community 
Bank and Puget Sound Bank both acquired during 2018, which is described in Note 2 of the consolidated financial 
statements, from the scope of management’s report on internal control over financial reporting. As such, it has also 
been excluded from the scope of our audit of internal control over financial reporting.  Our audits also included performing 
such  other  procedures  as  we  considered  necessary  in  the  circumstances.    We  believe  that  our  audits  provide  a 
reasonable basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding 
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles.  A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies 
and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect 
the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions 
are  recorded  as  necessary  to  permit  preparation  of  financial  statements  in  accordance  with  generally  accepted 
accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with 
authorizations  of  management  and  directors  of  the  company;  and  (3)  provide  reasonable  assurance  regarding 
prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have 
a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become 
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may 
deteriorate.

/s/ Crowe LLP

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2012.

Sacramento, California
March 1, 2019

67

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
(In thousands, except shares)

ASSETS
Cash on hand and in banks

Interest earning deposits

Cash and cash equivalents

Investment securities available for sale, at fair value

Loans held for sale

Loans receivable, net

Allowance for loan losses

Total loans receivable, net

Other real estate owned

Premises and equipment, net

Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost

Bank owned life insurance

Accrued interest receivable

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Other intangible assets, net

Goodwill

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Deposits

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Junior subordinated debentures

Securities sold under agreement to repurchase

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Total liabilities

Stockholders’ equity:

Preferred stock, no par value, 2,500,000 shares authorized; no

shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017

Common stock, no par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 

36,874,055 and 29,927,746 shares issued and outstanding at 
December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net

Total stockholders’ equity

December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017

$

92,704 $

69,206

161,910

976,095

1,555

3,654,160

(35,042)
3,619,118
1,983

81,100

6,076

93,612

15,403

98,522

20,614

78,293

24,722

103,015

810,530

2,288

2,849,071

(32,086)
2,816,985

—

60,325

8,347

75,091

12,244

99,328

6,088

240,939

5,316,927 $

119,029

4,113,270

4,432,402 $

3,393,060

$

$

—

20,302

31,487

72,013

92,500

20,009

31,821

67,575

4,556,204

3,604,965

—

—

591,806

176,372

(7,455)

760,723

360,590

149,013

(1,298)

508,305
4,113,270

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

5,316,927 $

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

68

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

INTEREST INCOME:

Interest and fees on loans

Taxable interest on investment securities

Nontaxable interest on investment securities

Interest on other interest earning assets

Total interest income

INTEREST EXPENSE:

Deposits

Junior subordinated debentures

Other borrowings

Total interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for loan losses

Net interest income after provision for loan losses

NONINTEREST INCOME:

Service charges and other fees

Gain on sale of investment securities, net

Gain on sale of loans, net

Interest rate swap fees

Other income

Total noninterest income

NONINTEREST EXPENSE:

Compensation and employee benefits

Occupancy and equipment

Data processing

Marketing

Professional services

State and local taxes

Federal deposit insurance premium

Other real estate owned, net

Amortization of intangible assets

Other expense

Total noninterest expense

Income before income taxes

Income tax expense

Net income

Basic earnings per common share

Diluted earnings per common share

Dividends declared per common share

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

175,466

$

129,213

$

122,147

17,602

4,649

1,642

12,688

5,269

539

11,215

4,870

280

199,359

147,709

138,512

10,397

1,263

753

12,413

186,946

5,129

181,817

6,049

1,014

1,283

8,346

139,363

4,220

135,143

5,010

880

116

6,006

132,506

4,931

127,575

18,914

18,004

14,354

137

2,759

564

9,291

6

7,696

1,045

8,828

1,315

6,994

1,854

7,102

31,665

35,579

31,619

86,830

19,779

9,888

3,228

9,670

3,210

1,480

106

3,819

11,385

149,395

64,087

11,030

53,057

1.49

1.49

0.72

64,268

15,396

8,176

2,943

4,777

2,461

1,435

(70)

1,286

9,903

61,405

15,763

7,312

2,835

3,606

2,616

1,620

334

1,415

9,567

110,575

106,473

60,147

18,356

41,791

1.39

1.39

0.61

$

$

$

$

52,721

13,803

38,918

1.30

1.30

0.72

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

69

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)

Net income

Change in fair value of investment securities available for sale, net of

tax of $(1,591), $826 and $(2,316), respectively

Reclassification adjustment for net gain from sale of investment
securities available for sale included in income, net of tax of
$(29), $(2) and $(461), respectively

Other comprehensive (loss) income

Comprehensive income

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

53,057 $

41,791 $

38,918

(5,956)

1,530

(4,311)

(108)

(6,064)

(4)

1,526

(854)

(5,165)

$

46,993 $

43,317 $

33,753

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

70

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

Number of
common
shares

Common
stock

Retained
earnings

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
income (loss), 
net

Total
stock-
holders’
equity

Balance at December 31, 2015

Restricted stock awards granted, net of forfeitures

Exercise of stock options (including excess tax
benefits from nonqualified stock options)

Stock-based compensation expense

Net excess tax benefits from vesting of restricted

stock

Common stock repurchased

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.72

per share)

Balance at December 31, 2016

Restricted stock awards forfeited

Exercise of stock options

Stock-based compensation expense

Common stock repurchased

Net income

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.61

per share)

ASU 2018-02 Implementation

Balance at December 31, 2017

Restricted stock units vested, net of restricted

stock awards forfeited

Exercise of stock options

Stock-based compensation expense

Common stock repurchased

Net income

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

Common stock issued in business combinations

Cash dividends declared on common stock ($0.72

per share)

ASU 2016-01 Implementation

Balance at December 31, 2018

29,975 $ 359,451 $ 107,960 $
—

110

—

38

—

—

560

1,840

103

(168)

(2,894)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

38,918

—

2,559 $ 469,970

—

—

—

—

—

—

(5,165)

—

560

1,840

103

(2,894)

38,918

(5,165)

(21,569)

—

(21,569)

359,060

125,309

(2,606)

481,763

—

164

2,103

(737)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

41,791

—

(18,305)

218

—

—

—

—

—

1,526

—

(218)

—

164

2,103

(737)

41,791

1,526

(18,305)

—

360,590

149,013

(1,298)

508,305

—

133

2,744

(1,704)

—

—

—

—

—

53,057

—
230,043

—
—

—

(25,791)

—

—

—

—

—

(6,064)
—

—

(93)

—

133

2,744

(1,704)

53,057

(6,064)
230,043

(25,791)

—

(7,455) $ 760,723

—

—

—
29,955

(10)

13

—

(30)

—

—

—

—
29,928

29

10

—

(53)

—

—
6,960

—

—

—
36,874 $ 591,806 $ 176,372 $

93

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

71

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating

activities:

Depreciation of premises and equipment, amortization of securities

available for sale, and amortization of discount of junior
subordinated debentures

Changes in net deferred loan costs, net of amortization

Provision for loan losses

Net change in accrued interest receivable, prepaid expenses and

other assets, accrued expenses and other liabilities

Stock-based compensation expense

Net excess tax benefit from exercise of stock-based compensation

Amortization of intangible assets

Origination of loans held for sale

Proceeds from sale of loans

Earnings on bank owned life insurance

Valuation adjustment on other real estate owned

Gain on sale of loans, net

Gain on sale of investment securities, net

Gain on sale of assets held for sale

Loss on sale of other real estate owned

Impairment of assets held for sale

Loss on sale or write-off of furniture, equipment and leasehold

improvements

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

$

53,057

$

41,791

$

38,918

9,808

(150)

5,129

10,195

2,744

—

3,819

(76,101)

79,237

(1,753)

49

(2,759)

(137)

(798)

—

75

32

10,704

(1,007)

4,220

11,634

2,103

—

1,286

(108,696)

121,482

(1,424)

—

(7,696)

(6)

(747)

(144)

—

13

12,709

(1,422)

4,931

2,147

1,840

(123)

1,415

(145,107)

148,121

(1,460)

383

(6,994)

(1,315)

—

(173)

—

110

53,980

Net cash provided by operating activities

82,447

73,513

Cash flows from investing activities:

Loans originated, net of principal payments

Maturities of other interest earning deposits

Maturities, calls and payments of investment securities available

for sale

Purchase of investment securities available for sale

Purchase of premises and equipment

Proceeds from sales of other loans

Proceeds from sales of other real estate owned

Proceeds from sales of investment securities available for sale

Proceeds from sales of assets held for sale

Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock

Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock

Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment

Purchase of bank owned life insurance

Proceeds from BOLI death benefit

Capital contributions to low-income housing tax credit partnerships

and new market tax credit partnerships, net

Net cash received from acquisitions

Net cash used in investing activities

(98,563)

(235,154)

(263,387)

—

—

6,709

92,563

(342,141)

(23,265)

9,993

198

156,014

1,908

26,538

(22,524)

28

(54)

—

(8,303)

105,974

(101,634)

98,894

(149,914)

(3,063)

28,874

930

31,028

1,849

30,018

(30,801)

—

(4,394)

1,101

(10,762)

—

129,408

(267,657)

(6,722)

21,077

2,486

140,373

—

23,732

(27,148)

659

(8,000)

—

(4,456)

—

(241,394)

(252,926)

72

Cash flows from financing activities:

Net increase in deposits

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Repayments of Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Common stock cash dividends paid

Net (decrease)/increase in securities sold under agreement to

repurchase

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

Net excess tax benefit from exercise of stock-based compensation

Repurchase of common stock

Net cash provided by financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

Cash paid for interest

Cash paid for income taxes

Supplemental non-cash disclosures of cash flow information:

Transfers of loans receivable to other real estate owned

Transfers of properties held for sale recorded in premises and
equipment, net to prepaid expenses and other assets

Transfer of BOLI to prepaid expenses and other assets

Investment in low income housing tax credit partnership and

related funding commitment

     Business Combinations:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

214,740

554,950

(663,450)

(25,791)

(796)

133

—

(1,704)

78,082

58,895

163,412

763,350

(750,450)

(18,305)

9,717

164

—

(737)

167,151

(730)

103,015

103,745

161,910

$

103,015

$

121,361

660,900

(581,300)

(21,569)

(1,110)

540

123

(2,894)

176,051

(22,895)

126,640

103,745

12,385

$

8,399

$

5,634

2,045

5,998

11,500

434

$

32

$

1,431

1,836

421

2,687

—

—

—

—

33,171

19,663

$

$

$

Common stock issued for business combinations

$

230,043

$

— $

Assets acquired (liabilities assumed) in acquisitions:

Investment securities available for sale

Loans receivable

Other real estate owned

Premises and equipment

Federal Home Loan Bank stock

Accrued interest receivable

Bank owned life insurance

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Other intangible assets

Goodwill

Deposits

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Securities sold under agreement to repurchase

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

84,846

718,620

1,796

3,785

1,743

2,454

17,116

2,957

18,345

121,910

(824,602)

(16,000)

(462)

(8,439)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

73

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016

(1) 

Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, Significant Accounting Policies and Recently 
Issued Accounting Pronouncements

(a) Description of Business

Heritage Financial Corporation ("Heritage" or the “Company”) is a bank holding company that was incorporated 
in the State of Washington in August 1997. The Company is primarily engaged in the business of planning, directing 
and coordinating the business activities of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Heritage Bank (the “Bank”). The Bank is a 
Washington-chartered  commercial  bank  and  its  deposits  are  insured  by  the  FDIC. The  Bank  is  headquartered  in 
Olympia, Washington and conducts business from its 64 branch offices located throughout Washington State and the 
greater Portland, Oregon area. The Bank’s business consists primarily of commercial lending and deposit relationships 
with small businesses and their owners in its market areas and attracting deposits from the general public. The Bank 
also makes real estate construction and land development loans, consumer loans and originates first mortgage loans 
on residential properties primarily located in its market areas.

Effective January 16, 2018, the Company completed the acquisition of Puget Sound Bancorp, Inc. (“Puget 
Sound”), the holding company for Puget Sound Bank, both of Bellevue, Washington (“Puget Sound Merger”) and on 
July 2, 2018, the Company completed the acquisition of Premier Commercial Bancorp ("Premier Commercial"), the 
holding company for Premier Community Bank, both of Hillsboro, Oregon ("Premier Merger"). See Note (2) Business 
Combinations for additional information on the Puget Sound Merger and the Premier Merger (collectively the "Premier 
and Puget Mergers").

(b) Basis of Presentation

The accounting and reporting policies of the Company and its subsidiaries conform to U.S. Generally Accepted 
Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). In preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements, management makes estimates 
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and 
liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting 
periods. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly 
owned subsidiary, the Bank. All significant intercompany balances and transactions among the Company and the Bank 
have been eliminated in consolidation.

Certain prior year amounts in the Consolidated Statements of Income have been reclassified to conform to 
the current year’s presentation. Reclassifications had no effect on the prior years' net income or stockholders’ equity. 

(c) Significant Accounting Policies

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and due from banks and interest-bearing balances due from 

the Federal Reserve Bank. Cash equivalents have a maturity of 90 days or less at the time of purchase.

Investment Securities

The Company identifies investments as held to maturity or available for sale at the time of acquisition. Securities 
are classified as held to maturity when the Company has the ability and positive intent to hold them to maturity. Securities 
classified as available for sale are available for future liquidity requirements and may be sold prior to maturity. As of 
December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 the Bank does not hold any securities classified as held to maturity. See 
Note (3) Investment Securities for additional information.

Securities  available  for  sale  are  carried  at  fair  value.  Interest  income  includes  amortization  of  purchase 
premiums or accretion of purchase discounts using the interest method. Unrealized gains and losses on securities 
available for sale are generally excluded from earnings and are reported in other comprehensive income (loss), net 
of related income taxes. Realized gains and losses on sale of investment securities are computed on the specific 
identification  method.  Transfers  of  securities  between  the  available  for  sale  and  held  to  maturity  categories  are 
accounted for at fair value.

74

 
 
 
Management evaluates securities for other-than-temporary impairment on at least a quarterly basis, and more 
frequently  when  economic  or  market  conditions  warrant  such  an  evaluation. Although  these  evaluations  involve 
significant judgment, an unrealized loss in the fair value of a debt security is generally deemed to be temporary when 
a) the fair value of the security is below the carrying value primarily due to changes in interest rates; b) there has not 
been  significant  deterioration  in  the  financial  condition  of  the  issuer;  and,  c)  it  is  not  more  likely  than  not  that  the 
Company will be required to, nor does it have the intent to, sell the security before the anticipated recovery of its 
remaining carrying value. If any of these criteria is not met, the impairment is split into two components as follows: 1) 
other-than-temporary impairment related to credit loss, which must be recognized in the income statement and 2) 
other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors, which is recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). 
The credit loss is defined as the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and 
the amortized cost basis. For debt securities with other-than-temporary impairment, the previous amortized cost basis 
less the other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings shall be the new amortized cost basis of the security. 
In subsequent periods, the Company accretes into interest income the difference between the new amortized cost 
basis and cash flows expected to be collected prospectively over the life of the debt security. Continued deterioration 
of market conditions could result in additional impairment losses recognized within the investment portfolio.

Other factors that may be considered in determining whether a decline in the value of a debt security is “other-
than-temporary” include ratings by recognized rating agencies; actions of commercial banks or other lenders relative 
to the continued extension of credit facilities to the issuer of the security; the financial condition, capital strength and 
near-term prospects of the issuer and recommendations of investment advisors or market analysts. 

Loans Held for Sale

Mortgage loans held for sale are carried at the lower of amortized cost or fair value. Any loan that management 
does not have the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or payoff is classified as held for 
sale at the time of origination, purchase or securitization, or when such decision is made. Unrealized losses on such 
loans are recorded as a valuation allowance and included in income.

Loans Receivable and Loan Commitments

Loans receivable include loans originated by the Bank as well as loans acquired in business combinations. 
Loans acquired in a business combination are designated as “purchased” loans. These loans are recorded at their 
fair value at acquisition date, factoring in credit losses expected to be incurred over the life of the loan. Accordingly, 
an allowance for loan losses is not carried over or recorded as of the acquisition date.

Loans  purchased  with  evidence  of  credit  deterioration  since  origination  for  which  it  is  probable  that  all 
contractually required payments will not be collected are accounted for under FASB ASC 310-30, Loans and Debt 
Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality. These loans are identified as purchased credit impaired ("PCI") 
loans. In situations where such loans have similar risk characteristics, loans may be aggregated into pools to estimate 
cash flows. A pool is accounted for as a single asset with a single interest rate, cumulative loss rate and cash flow 
expectation. Expected cash flows at the acquisition date in excess of the fair value of loan or pool are considered to 
be accretable yield, which is recognized as interest income over the life of the loan or pool using a level yield method 
if the timing and amount of the future cash flows of the loan or pool is reasonably estimable.

The cash flows expected over the life of the PCI loan or pool are estimated quarterly using an external cash 
flow model that projects cash flows and calculates the carrying values of the loans or pools, book yields, effective 
interest income and impairment, if any, based on loan or pool level events. Assumptions as to default rates, loss severity 
and prepayment speeds are utilized to calculate the expected cash flows. To the extent actual or projected cash flows 
are  less  than  previously  estimated,  additional  provisions  for  loan  losses  on  the  purchased  loan  portfolios  will  be 
recognized immediately into earnings. To the extent actual or projected cash flows are more than previously estimated, 
the increase in cash flows is recognized immediately as a recapture of provision for loan losses up to the amount of 
any provision previously recognized for that loan or pool, if any, then prospectively recognized in interest income as 
a yield adjustment. Any disposals of a loan in a pool, including sale of a loan, payment in full or foreclosure results in 
the removal of the loan from the loan pool at the carrying amount.

Loans accounted for under FASB ASC 310-30 are generally considered accruing and performing loans as the 
loans accrete interest income over the estimated life of the loan when cash flows are reasonably estimable. Accordingly, 
PCI loans that are contractually past due are still considered to be accruing and performing loans. If the timing and 
amount of cash flows is not reasonably estimable, the loans may be classified as nonaccrual loans and interest income 
may be recognized on a cash basis or all cash payments may be accounted for a as a reduction of the principal amount 
outstanding.

Loans purchased that are not accounted for under FASB ASC 310-30 are accounted for under FASB ASC 
310-20, Receivables—Nonrefundable fees and Other Costs. These loans are identified as non-PCI loans, and are 

75

initially recorded at their fair value, which is estimated using an external cash flow model and assumptions similar to 
the FASB ASC 310-30 loans. The difference between the estimated fair value and the unpaid principal balance at 
acquisition date is recognized as interest income over the life of the loan using an effective interest method for non-
revolving credits or a straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method, for revolving credits. Any 
unrecognized discount for a loan that is subsequently repaid in full will be recognized immediately into income. 

Loans are generally recorded at the unpaid principal balance, net of premiums, unearned discounts and net 
deferred loan origination fees and costs. The premiums and unearned discounts may include values determined in 
purchase accounting. Interest on loans is calculated using the simple interest method based on the daily balance of 
the principal amount outstanding and is credited to income as earned. Loans are considered past due or delinquent 
when principal or interest payments are past due 30 days or more. 

The Company's policies for determining past due or delinquency status, placing loans on nonaccrual status, 
recording payments received on nonaccrual loans, resuming accrual of interest, and charging off uncollectible loans 
generally do not differ by loan segments or classes.  Any differences are denoted in the applicable sections below.

Delinquent Loans:

Commercial  loans  are  serviced  by  the  relationship  manger  assigned  to  the  account.   System  generated 
delinquency reports are provided to all relationship managers monthly, and relationship managers take follow up action 
as needed, including contacting the borrower and transferring seriously delinquent loans to the Bank’s Special Assets 
Department for collection.  Consumer loans are monitored by the Bank’s Consumer Collections Department, with initial 
delinquency notices sent after 15 days, with follow up notices at 30 and 45 days.  The Consumer Collections Department 
attempts to make direct contact with the borrower to establish a plan to bring the loan current.  Consumer loans that 
become 90 days delinquent are charged off.

Nonaccrual and Charged-off Loans:

Loans on which the accrual of interest has been discontinued are designated as nonaccrual loans. Delinquent 
loans  may  remain  on  accrual  status  between  30 days  and  89 days  past  due. The  accrual  of  interest  is  generally 
discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days delinquent unless the credit is well secured and in the process of collection. 
Loans are placed on nonaccrual at an earlier date if collection of the contractual principal or interest is doubtful. All 
interest accrued but not collected on loans deemed nonaccrual during the period is reversed against interest income 
in that period. The interest payments received on nonaccrual loans are generally accounted for on the cost-recovery 
method whereby the interest payment is applied to the principal balances. Loans may be returned to accrual status 
when improvements in credit quality eliminate the doubt as to the full collectability of both interest and principal and a 
period of sustained performance has occurred. Substantially all loans that are nonaccrual are also considered impaired. 
Income recognition on impaired loans conforms to that used on nonaccrual loans.

 Loans are generally charged-off if collection of the contractual principal or interest as scheduled in the loan 
agreement is doubtful. Credit card loans and other consumer loans are typically charged-off no later than 180 days 
past due.

Impaired Loans:

The Bank routinely tests its classified loans for potential impairment. Classified loans that may be impaired 
are identified using the Bank's normal loan review procedures, which include post-approval reviews, quarterly reviews 
by  credit  administration  of  criticized  loan  reports,  scheduled  internal  reviews,  underwriting  during  extensions  and 
renewals, and the analysis of information routinely received on a borrower’s financial performance. A loan is considered 
impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable the Bank will be unable to collect the scheduled 
payments of principal or interest when due according to the original contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors 
considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of 
collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays 
and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment 
delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding 
the loan and the borrowers, including length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower’s prior payment 
record, and the amounts of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. 

Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis by either the present value of expected future cash flows 
discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, or as a practical expedient the loan’s observable market price or the 
fair value of the collateral (less cost to sell) if the loan is collateral dependent. Income recognition on impaired loans 
conforms to that used on nonaccrual loans.

Subsequent to an initial measure of impairment and based on new information received, if there is a significant 
change in the amount or timing of a loan’s expected future cash flows or a change in the value of collateral or market 

76

price of a loan, the impairment is recalculated. However, the net carrying value of a loan never exceeds the recorded 
investment in the loan.

Troubled Debt Restructures:

A troubled debt restructured loan (“TDR”) is a restructuring in which the Bank, for economic or legal reasons 
related to a borrower’s financial difficulties, grants a concession to a borrower that it would not otherwise consider. 
These concessions  may  include  changes  of  the  interest rate, forbearance  of the outstanding  principal  or accrued 
interest, extension of the maturity date, delay in the timing of the regular payment, or any other actions intended to 
minimize potential losses. The Bank does not forgive principal for a majority of its TDRs, but in those situations where 
principal is forgiven, the entire amount of such principal forgiveness is immediately charged off to the extent not done 
so prior to the modification. The Bank also considers insignificant delays in payments when determining if a loan should 
be classified as a TDR.

The Company has implemented more stringent definitions of concessions and impairment measures for PCI 
loans which are not in pools as these loans have known credit deteriorations and are generally accreting income at a 
lower  discounted  rate  as  compared  to  the  contractual  note  rate  based  on  the  guidance  of  FASB ASC  310-30. 
Modifications of PCI loans which are not in pools are considered TDRs if they result in a decrease in expected cash 
flows when compared to the pre-modification expected cash flows, without any other changes to the agreement to 
consider.

A loan that has been placed on nonaccrual status that is subsequently restructured will usually remain on 
nonaccrual status until the borrower is able to demonstrate repayment performance in compliance with the restructured 
terms for a sustained period, typically for six months. A restructured loan may return to accrual status sooner based 
on other significant events or mitigating circumstances. A loan that has not been placed on nonaccrual status may be 
restructured and such loan may remain on accrual status after such restructuring. In these circumstances, the borrower 
has made payments before the restructuring and is expected to continue to perform after the restructuring. Generally, 
this type of restructuring involves a reduction in the loan interest rate and/or a change to interest-only payments for a 
period  of  time.  The  restructured  loan  is  considered  impaired  despite  the  accrual  status  and  a  specific  valuation 
allowance, if any, is calculated in the manner previously described.

A TDR is considered defaulted if, during the 12-month period after the restructure, the loan has not performed 
in accordance to the restructured terms. Defaults include loans whose payments are 90 days or more past due and 
loans whose revised maturity date passed and no further modifications will be granted for that borrower.

A loan may subsequently be excluded from the TDR disclosures if: (i) the restructured interest rate was greater 
than or equal to the interest rate of a new loan with comparable risk at the time of the restructure, and (ii) the loan is 
no longer impaired based on the terms of the restructured agreement. The Bank's policy is that the borrower must 
demonstrate a sustained period, typically six consecutive months, of payments in accordance with the modified loan 
before it can be reviewed for removal from the TDR disclosure under the second criteria. However, the loan must be 
reported as a TDR in at least one annual report on Form 10-K. Once a loan has been classified as a TDR, it will continue 
to be disclosed as an impaired loan until paid off or charged-off, even if the loan subsequently is no longer disclosed 
as a TDR.

Unfunded Loan Commitments:

Unfunded loan commitments are generally related to the unused portion of the total commitment of a loan or 
providing  credit  facilities  to  clients  of  the  Bank  and  are  not  actively  traded  financial  instruments. These  unfunded 
commitments  are  disclosed  as  financial  instruments  with  off-balance  sheet  risk  in  Note  (14)  Commitments  and 
Contingencies and Note (18) Fair Value Measurements in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Loan Fees and Costs

Loan origination fees and certain direct origination costs are deferred and amortized as an adjustment of the 
yields of the loans over their contractual lives, adjusted for prepayment of the loans, using the effective interest method 
or  the  straight-line  method,  which  approximates  the  effective  interest  method.  In  the  event  loans  are  sold,  the 
unamortized net deferred loan origination fees or costs are recognized as a component of the gain or loss on the sale 
of loans.

77

Allowance for Loan Losses

Allowance for Loan Losses:

The allowance for loan losses is a reserve established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense, 
which represents management’s best estimate of probable losses that have been incurred within the existing portfolio 
of loans. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when management believes the uncollectibility of a loan 
balance is confirmed. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance. The allowance for loan losses on 
loans designated as non-PCI loans is similar to the methodology described below except that for non-PCI loans, the 
remaining unaccreted discounts resulting from the fair value adjustments recorded at the time the loans were purchased 
are additionally factored into the allowance methodology. The allowance for loan losses on PCI loans is described in 
the “Allowance for Loan Losses on Purchased Credit Impaired Loans” section below. 

The allowance, in the judgment of management, is necessary to reserve for estimated loan losses from risks 
inherent in the loan portfolio. The Company’s allowance for loan losses methodology includes allowance allocations 
calculated in accordance with FASB ASC 310, Receivables and allowance allocations calculated in accordance with 
FASB ASC 450, Contingencies. Accordingly, the methodology is based on historical loss experience by type of credit, 
specific homogeneous risk pools and specific loss allocations, with adjustments for current events and conditions. The 
Company’s process for determining the appropriate level of the allowance for loan losses is designed to account for 
credit deterioration as it occurs. The provision for loan losses reflects loan quality trends, including the levels of and 
trends related to nonaccrual loans, past due loans, classified loans and net charge-offs or recoveries, among other 
factors. The provision for loan losses also reflects all actions taken on all loans for a particular period. Therefore, the 
amount of the provision reflects not only the necessary increases in the allowance for loan losses related to newly 
identified criticized loans, but it also reflects actions taken related to other loans including, among other things, any 
necessary increases or decreases in specific valuation allowances for impaired loans or loan pools. 

The level of the allowance reflects management’s continuing evaluation of known and inherent risks in the 
loan portfolio. Portions of the allowance may be allocated for specific credits; however, the entire allowance is available 
for any credit that, in management’s judgment, could be charged off.

Loans which management determines are impaired are individually evaluated for impairment, and specific 
valuation allowances are recorded, if any, on these loans based on the methodology previously described. Loans that 
are determined not to meet management's definition of impaired are collectively evaluated for impairment based on 
(i) historical loss factors determined in accordance with FASB ASC 450 based on historical loan loss experience for 
similar loans with similar characteristics and trends; and (ii) environmental loss factors that reflect the impact of current 
conditions,  as  determined  in  accordance  with  FASB ASC  450  based  on  general  economic  conditions  and  other 
qualitative risk factors both internal and external to the Company. The historical loss factors and environmental loss 
factors are combined and multiplied against the unguaranteed outstanding principal balances of loans in pools of 
similar loans with similar characteristics. 

The Company evaluates specific loans for credit quality indicators and performs regular analysis and evaluation 
of problem loans. Loans are classified based on an internal credit risk grading process that evaluates, among other 
things: (i) the obligor’s ability to repay; (ii) the underlying collateral, if any; and (iii) the economic environment and 
industry in which the borrower operates. This analysis is performed at the loan officer level for all loans. When a loan 
is performing, but has an assigned risk grade other than pass, the loan officer analyzes the loan to determine an 
appropriate monitoring and collection strategy. When a loan is nonperforming or has been classified as a nonaccrual 
loan, a member from the special assets department will analyze the loan to determine if it is impaired. If the loan is 
considered impaired, the special assets department will evaluate the need for a specific valuation allowance on the 
loan. Specific valuation allowances are determined by analyzing the borrower’s ability to repay amounts owed, collateral 
deficiencies and economic conditions affecting the borrower’s industry, among other things.

Historical loss factors are calculated based on the historical loss experience and recovery experience of specific 
classes of loans. The Company calculates historical loss ratios for the classes of loans based on the proportion of 
actual charge-offs and recoveries experienced to the total loans in the pool for a rolling twelve-quarter average.

Environmental loss factors are based on general economic conditions and other qualitative risk factors both 
internal and external to the Company. In general, such valuation allowances are determined by evaluating, among 
other things: (i) levels of and trends in delinquencies, classified and impaired loans; (ii) levels of and trends in charge-
offs and recoveries; (iii) trends in volume and terms of loans (iv) effects of changes in risk selection and underwriting 
standards,  and  other  changes  in  lending  policies,  procedures,  and  practices;  (v) experience,  ability,  and  depth  of 
lending management and other relevant staff; (vi) national and local economic trends and conditions; (vii) other external 
factors  such  as  competition,  legal,  and  regulatory;  (viii) effects  of  changes  in  credit  concentrations,  and  (ix)  other 
factors. Management evaluates the degree of risk that each one of these components has on the quality of the loan 

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portfolio on a quarterly basis. Each component is determined to be on a scale of risk. The results are then utilized in 
a matrix to determine an appropriate environmental loss factor for each class of loan.

The allowance for loan losses evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible 
to  significant  revision  as  more  information  becomes  available.  While  management  utilizes  its  best  judgment  and 
information available to recognize losses on loans, future additions to the allowance may be necessary based on 
declines in local and national economic conditions. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their 
examination process, periodically review the Bank’s allowance for loan losses. Such agencies may require the Bank 
to make adjustments to the allowance based on their judgments about information available to them at the time of 
their  examinations.  The  Company  believes  the  allowance  for  loan  losses  is  appropriate  given  all  of  the  above 
considerations.

Allowance for Loan Losses on Purchased Credit Impaired Loans:

The PCI loans acquired in the Company's mergers and acquisitions are subject to the Company’s internal and 
external credit review. Under the accounting guidance of FASB ASC 310-30, the allowance for loan losses on PCI 
loans is measured at each financial reporting period, or measurement date, based on expected cash flows. If and 
when  credit  deterioration,  or  decreases  in  expected  cash  flows  previously  estimated,  occurs  subsequent  to  the 
acquisition date, a provision for loan losses will be charged to earnings as of the measurement date. 

Allowance for Losses on Unfunded Commitments:

The Bank is also party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to 
meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and 
standby letters of credit. Those instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the disbursed 
amounts recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. The Company has a policy in which it 
evaluates the risk on a quarterly basis, and provides for an allowance for credit losses, as necessary. The methodology 
is  similar  to  the  allowance  for  loan  losses,  and  includes  an  estimate  of  the  probability  of  drawdown  of  the  loan 
commitment. Based on its analysis, the Company has recorded an allowance for off-balance sheet financial instruments 
of $306,000 and $170,000 as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. This allowance is reported within accrued 
expenses and other liabilities on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

Mortgage Banking Operations

The Bank sells one-to-four family residential loans on a servicing-released basis. The Bank recognizes a gain 
or loss to the extent that the sale proceeds of the loan sold differs from the net book value at the time of sale. Income 
from one-to-four family residential loans brokered to other lenders is recognized into income on date of loan closing.

Commitments to sell one-to-four family residential loans are made primarily during the period between the 
taking of the loan application and the closing of the loan. The timing of making these sale commitments is dependent 
upon the timing of the borrower’s election to lock-in the mortgage interest rate and fees prior to loan closing. Most of 
these sale commitments are made on a best-efforts basis whereby the Bank is only obligated to sell the loan if the 
loan is approved and closed by the Bank. Commitments to fund one-to-four family residential loans (interest rate locks) 
to be sold into the secondary market and forward commitments for the future delivery of these loans are accounted 
for as free standing derivatives. Fair values of these mortgage derivatives are estimated based on changes in mortgage 
interest rates between the date the interest on the loan was locked and the balance sheet date. The Company enters 
into forward commitments for the future delivery of one-to-four family residential loans when interest rate locks are 
entered into, in order to hedge the interest rate risk resulting from its commitments to fund the loans. Changes in the 
fair values of these derivatives are included in other income. The fair value of these derivative instruments was not 
significant at December 31, 2018 and 2017. 

Other Real Estate Owned

Other real estate acquired by the Company in partial or full satisfaction of a loan obligation is classified as 
held for sale. When acquired, the property is recorded at the estimated fair value (less the costs to sell) at the date of 
acquisition, not to exceed net realizable value, and any resulting write-down is charged to the allowance for loan losses. 
Physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan occurs when legal 
title is obtained upon completion of foreclosure or when the borrower conveys all interest in the properly to satisfy the 
loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. 

After acquisition, all costs incurred in maintaining the property are expensed except for costs relating to the 
development and improvement of the property which are capitalized to the extent of the property’s net realizable value. 
If the estimated realizable value of the other real estate owned property declines after the acquisition date, the valuation 
adjustment is charged to other real estate owned expense, net on the Consolidated Statements of Income.

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Premises and Equipment

Premises and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. 
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the lease 
period, whichever is shorter. The estimated useful lives used to compute depreciation and amortization for buildings 
and building improvements is 15 to 39 years; and for furniture, fixtures and equipment is three to seven years. The 
Company reviews buildings, leasehold improvements and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in 
the circumstances indicate that the undiscounted cash flows for the property are less than its carrying value. If identified, 
an impairment loss is recognized through a charge to earnings based on the fair value of the property.

Bank Owned Life Insurance 

The Company's bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) policies insure the lives of certain current or former Bank 
officers, and name the Bank as beneficiary. Noninterest income is generated tax-free (subject to certain limitations) 
from the increase in the policies' underlying investments made by the insurance company. The Bank utilizes BOLI to 
partially offset costs associated with employee compensation and benefit programs with the earnings on the BOLI. 
The  Company  records  BOLI  at  the  amount  that  can  be  realized  under  the  insurance  contract  at  the  statement  of 
financial condition date, which is the cash surrender value adjusted for other charges or other amounts due that are 
probable at settlement.

Other Intangible Assets

The other intangible assets represents the Core Deposit Intangible (“CDI”) acquired in business combinations. 
The fair value of the CDI stemming from any given business combination is based on the present value of the expected 
cost savings attributable to the core deposit funding, relative to an alternative source of funding. The CDI is amortized 
over an estimated useful life which approximates the existing deposit relationships acquired on an accelerated method. 
The Company evaluates such identifiable intangibles for impairment annually, or more frequently if an indication of 
impairment exists.

Goodwill

The Company’s goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired 
in certain mergers and acquisitions. Goodwill is assigned to Heritage Bank and is evaluated for impairment at the Bank 
level (reporting unit) on an annual basis, or more frequently if an indication of impairment exists between the annual 
tests. Factors to consider may include, among others: a significant change in legal factors or in the general business 
climate; significant change in the Company’s stock price and market capitalization; unanticipated competition; and an 
action or assessment by a regulator. 

For the goodwill impairment assessment, the Company has the option, prior to the two-step process, to first 
assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that 
it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. The Company opted to 
bypass the qualitative assessment for its 2018 and 2017 annual goodwill impairment testing and proceed directly to 
the two-step goodwill impairment test. 

The  goodwill  impairment  two-step  process  requires  the  Company  to  make  assumptions  and  judgments 
regarding  fair  value. The  first  step  of  the  goodwill  impairment  test  is  performed  by  comparing  the  reporting  unit’s 
aggregate fair value to its carrying value. Absent other indicators of impairment, if the aggregate fair value exceeds 
the carrying value, goodwill is not considered impaired and no additional analysis is necessary. If the carrying value 
of the reporting unit were to exceed the aggregate fair value, a second step would be performed to measure the amount 
of impairment loss, if any. To measure any impairment loss the implied fair value would be determined in the same 
manner as if the reporting unit were being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of goodwill is 
less than the recorded goodwill, an impairment charge would be recorded for the difference.

For additional information relating to goodwill, see Note (8) Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.

Income Taxes

The Company and the Bank file a United States consolidated federal income tax return and an Oregon State 
income tax return. Income tax expense is the total of the current year income tax due or refundable and the change 
in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences 
attributable  to  differences  between  the  consolidated  financial  statement  carrying  amounts  of  existing  assets  and 
liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates 
applicable to taxable income in the periods 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 rate is recognized in income in the period 
that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amounts expected 
to be realized.

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A tax position is recognized as a benefit only if it is “more likely than not” that the tax position would be sustained 
in a tax examination, with a tax examination being presumed to occur. The amount recognized is the largest amount 
of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized on examination. For tax positions not meeting the “more 
likely than not” test, no tax benefit is recorded.

The Company’s policy is to recognize interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits in “income taxes” 

in the Consolidated Statements of Income as the amounts are generally insignificant each year. 

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company maintains a number of stock-based incentive programs, which are discussed in more detail in 
Note (19) Stock-Based Compensation. Compensation cost is recognized for stock options, restricted stock awards 
and restricted stock units issued to employees and directors based on the fair value of these awards at the date of 
grant. Compensation cost is generally recognized over the requisite service period, generally defined as the vesting 
period, on a straight-line basis. Compensation cost for restricted stock units with market-based vesting is recognized 
over the service period to the extent the restricted stock units are expected to vest. Forfeitures are recognized as they 
occur.

The market price of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant is used to determine the fair value of 
the restricted stock awards and restricted stock units. The fair value of stock options granted is estimated based on 
the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. Certain restricted stock unit grants are subject 
to performance-based vesting as well as other approved vesting conditions and cliff-vest based on those conditions, 
and the fair value is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation pricing model. The assumptions used in the Black-
Scholes-Merton option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation pricing model include the expected term based 
on the valuation date and the remaining contractual term of the award; the risk-free interest rate based on the U.S. 
Treasury curve at the valuation date of the award; the expected dividend yield based on expected dividends being 
payable to the holders; and the expected stock price volatility over the expected term based on the historical volatility 
over the equivalent historical term.

Deferred Compensation Plans

The Company has a Deferred Compensation Plan and has entered into arrangements with certain executive 
officers. Under the Deferred Compensation Plan, participants are permitted to elect to defer compensation and the 
Company has the discretion to make additional contributions to the Deferred Compensation Plan on behalf of any 
participant based on a number of factors. Such discretionary contributions are generally approved by the Compensation 
Committee of the Company's Board of Directors. The notional account balances of participants under the Deferred 
Compensation  Plan  earn  interest  on  an  annual  basis. The  applicable  interest  rate  is  the  Moody’s  Seasoned Aaa 
Corporate Bond Yield as of January 1 of each year. Generally, a participant’s account is payable upon the earliest of 
the participant’s separation from service with the Company, the participant’s death or disability, or a specified date that 
is elected by the participant in accordance with applicable rules of the Internal Revenue Code.

Additionally, in conjunction with the Premier Merger, the Company assumed the Salary Continuation Plan. 
The Salary Continuation  Plan is an unfunded non-qualified  deferred compensation  plan for select former Premier 
Commercial executive officers, some of which are current Heritage officers. Under the Salary Continuation Plan, the 
Company will pay each participant, or their beneficiary, specified amounts over specified periods beginning with the 
individual's termination of service due to retirement subject to early termination provisions.

The  Company’s  obligation  to  make  payments  under  the  Deferred  Compensation  Plan  and  the  Salary 
Continuation Plan is a general obligation of the Company and is to be paid from the Company’s general assets. As 
such, participants are general unsecured creditors of the Company with respect to their participation under both plans. 
The  Company  records  a  liability  within  accrued  expenses  and  other  liabilities  on  the  Consolidated  Statements  of 
Financial Condition and records compensation expense in a systematic and rational manner. Since the amounts earned 
under the Deferred Compensation Plan are generally based on the Company’s annual performance, the Company 
records deferred compensation expense each year for an amount calculated based on that year’s financial performance.

Earnings per Share

The two-class method is used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per common share. Basic earnings 
per  common  share  is  net  income  allocated  to  common  shareholders  divided  by  the  weighted  average  number  of 
common shares outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested share-based payment awards that contain 
rights to nonforfeitable dividends are considered participating securities for this calculation. Dividends and undistributed 
earnings allocated to participating securities are excluded from net income allocated to common shareholders and 
participating securities are excluded from weighted average common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per common 
share is calculated using the treasury stock method and includes the dilutive effect of additional potential common 

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shares  issuable  under  stock  options.  Earnings  and  dividends  per  share  are  restated  for  all  stock  splits  and  stock 
dividends through the date of issuance of the financial statements.

Derivative Financial Instruments

The commitments to originate mortgage loans held for sale and the related forward delivery contracts are 
considered derivatives. The Company also utilizes interest rate swap derivative contracts to facilitate the needs of its 
commercial customers whereby it enters into an interest rate swap with a customer while at the same time entering 
into an offsetting interest rate swap with another financial institution. In connection with each swap transaction, the 
Company agrees to pay interest to the customer on a notional amount at a variable interest rate and receive interest 
from the customer on a similar notional amount at a fixed interest rate. At the same time, the Company agrees to pay 
another financial institution the same fixed interest rate on the same notional amount and receive the same variable 
interest rate on the same notional amount. The transaction allows the Company’s customer to effectively convert a 
variable rate loan to a fixed rate. Because the Company acts as an intermediary for its customer, changes in the fair 
value of the underlying derivative contracts for the most part offset each other and do not significantly impact the 
Company’s results of operations. These interest rate swaps are not designated as hedging instruments.

The fair value of derivative positions outstanding is included in prepaid expenses and other assets and accrued 
expenses and other liabilities in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition and the net change 
in each of these financial statement line items is included in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. For non-
hedging derivative instruments, gains and losses due to changes in fair value and all cash flows are included in other 
noninterest  income  in  the  Company's  Consolidated  Statements  of  Income,  but  net  to  zero  for  the  years  ended 
December 31, 2018 and 2017 based on the identical back-to-back interest rate swaps.

Operating Segments

While the Company’s chief decision-makers monitor the revenue streams of the various products and services, 
operations are managed and financial performance is evaluated on a Company-wide basis. Operating segments are 
aggregated into one as operating results for all segments are similar. Accordingly, all of the financial service operations 
are considered by management to be aggregated in one reportable operating segment.

Revenue from Contracts with Customers

The Company's revenues are primarily composed of interest income on financial instruments, such as loans 
and investment securities, which are excluded from the scope of ASC 606. Descriptions of the Company's revenue-
generating activities that are within the scope ASC 606, which are presented in Service Charges and Other Fees and 
Other Income on the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Income, are as follows:

•  Service Charges on Deposit Accounts: The Company earns fees from its deposit customers from a variety of 
deposit products and services. Non-transaction based fees such as account maintenance fees and monthly 
statement  fees  are  considered  to  be  provided  to  the  customer  under  a  day-to-day  contract  with  ongoing 
renewals. Revenues for these non-transaction fees are earned over the course of a month, representing the 
period over which the Company satisfies the performance obligation. Transaction-based fees such as non-
sufficient fund charges, stop payment charges and wire fees are recognized at the time the transaction is 
executed as the contract duration does not extend beyond the service performed. 

•  Wealth Management and Trust Services: The Company earns fees from contracts with customers for fiduciary 
and brokerage activities. Revenues are generally recognized on a monthly basis and are generally based on 
a percentage of the customer’s assets under management or based on investment or insurance solutions that 
are implemented for the customer.

•  Merchant Processing Services and Debit and Credit Card Fees: The Company earns fees from cardholder 
transactions conducted through third party payment network providers which consist of (i) interchange fees 
earned from the payment network as a debit card issuer, (ii) referral fee income, and (iii) ongoing merchant 
fees earned for referring customers to the payment processing provider.  These fees are recognized when the 
transaction occurs, but may settle on a daily or monthly basis.

(d) Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

FASB ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, (as amended by FASB ASU 2015-14; FASB 
ASU 2016-08; FASB ASU 2016-10 and FASB ASU 2016-12), was issued in May 2014. Under this Accounting Standard 
Update ("ASU" or "Update"), the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") created a new Topic 606 which is in 
response to a joint initiative of FASB and the International Accounting Standards Board to clarify the principles for 

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recognizing revenue and to develop a common revenue standard for U.S. GAAP and international financial reporting 
standards that would: 

•  Remove inconsistencies and weaknesses in revenue requirements. 

•  Provide a more robust framework for addressing revenue issues. 

• 

Improve comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital 
markets. 

•  Provide more useful information to users of financial statements through improved disclosure requirements. 

•  Simplify the preparation of financial statements by reducing the number of requirements to which an entity 

must refer. 

The Company adopted the revenue recognition guidance, as amended, on January 1, 2018 using the modified 
retrospective approach. A significant amount of the Company’s revenues are derived from interest income on financial 
assets, which are excluded from the scope of the amended guidance. With respect to noninterest income and related 
disclosures, the Company has identified and evaluated the revenue streams and underlying revenue contracts within 
the scope of the guidance. The Company did not identify any significant changes in the timing of revenue recognition 
when considering the amended accounting guidance. The adoption of the Update did not have a material impact on 
the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements, but the adoption did change certain disclosure requirements as 
described in Significant Accounting Policies above.

FASB ASU 2016-01, Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (Subtopic 
825-10), was issued in January 2016, to enhance the reporting model for financial instruments to provide users of 
financial statements with more decision-useful information. This Update contains several provisions, including but not 
limited to (1) requiring equity investments, with certain exceptions, to be measured at fair value with changes in fair 
value  recognized  in  net  income;  (2)  simplifying  the  impairment  assessment  of  equity  investments  without  readily 
determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment; (3) eliminating the requirement 
to  disclose  the  method(s)  and  significant  assumptions  used  to  estimate  fair  value;  and  (4)  requiring  separate 
presentation of financial assets and liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance 
sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements. The Update also changes certain financial statement 
disclosure requirements, including requiring disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments be made on the basis 
of exit price. The Company adopted this Update effective January 1, 2018 using the cumulative catch-up transition 
method. This change resulted in a cumulative adjustment of $93,000 from accumulated other comprehensive loss, 
net to retained earnings for the unrealized gain related to the Company's equity security. The Company's processes 
and procedures utilized to estimate the fair value of loans receivable and certificate of deposit accounts for disclosure 
requirements were additionally changed due to adoption of this Update. Previously, the Company valued these items 
using an entry price notion. This ASU emphasized that these instruments be measured using the exit price notion; 
accordingly, the Company refined its calculation as part of adopting this Update. Prior period information has not been 
updated to conform with the new guidance. See the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and Note (18) 
Fair Value Measurements.

FASB ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), as amended by ASU 2017-13, 2018-01, 2018-10, 2018-11 and ASU 
2018-20,  was  originally  issued  in  February  2016,  to  increase  transparency  and  comparability  of  leases  among 
organizations and to disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The Update sets out the principles for the 
recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases for both lessees and lessors. The Update requires 
lessees to apply a dual approach, classifying leases as either a finance or operating lease. This classification will 
determine whether the lease expense is recognized based on an effective interest method or on a straight-line basis 
over the term of the lease. A lessee is also required to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases 
with a term greater than 12 months regardless of their classification. All cash payments will be classified within operating 
activities in the statement of cash flows. In transition, lessees and lessors are required to recognize and measure 
leases at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. The Update is effective 
for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. 
During 2018, management developed its methodology to estimate the right-of use assets and lease liabilities and 
selected a vendor to assist with implementation and calculation of the impact under the modified retrospective approach. 
The Company adopted the Update on January 1, 2019 and elected an exclusion accounting policy for lease assets 
and lease liabilities for leases with a term of twelve months or less. The adoption of this ASU resulted in the recognition 
of operating lease assets and liabilities of approximately $29.3 million and $30.2 million, respectively.

FASB ASU  2016-13, Financial  Instruments:  Credit  Losses  (Topic  326):  Measurement  of  Credit  Losses  on 
Financial Instruments, as amended by ASU 2018-19, was issued in June 2016. Commonly referred to as the current 
expected credit loss model ("CECL"), this Update requires financial assets measured at amortized cost basis to be 

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presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is 
deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial asset to present the net carrying value at the amount expected 
to be collected on the financial asset. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information 
about past events including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that 
affect the collectibility of the reported amount. The amendment affects loans, debt securities, trade receivables, net 
investments in leases, off-balance-sheet credit exposures, reinsurance receivables and any other financial asset not 
excluded  from  the  scope  that  have  the  contractual  right  to  receive  cash.  The  Update  replaces  the  incurred  loss 
impairment methodology, which generally only considered past events and current conditions, with a methodology 
that reflects the expected credit losses and required consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable 
information to estimate all expected credit losses. The Update additionally addresses purchased assets and introduces 
the purchased financial asset with a more-than-insignificant amount of credit deterioration since origination ("PCD"). 
The accounting for these PCD assets is similar to the existing accounting guidance of FASB ASC 310-30, Loans and 
Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, for PCI assets, except the subsequent improvements in 
estimated cash flows will be immediately recognized into income, similar to the immediate recognition of subsequent 
deteriorations  in  cash  flows.  Current  guidance  only  allows  for  the  prospective  recognition  of  these  cash  flow 
improvements. Because the terminology has been changed to a "more-than-insignificant" amount of credit deterioration, 
the  presumption  is  that  more  assets  might  qualify  for  this  accounting  under  the  Update  than  those  under  current 
guidance. For public business entities, the Update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, 
including interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted for fiscal years after December 15, 
2018. An entity will apply the Update through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning 
of the first reporting period in which the guidance is adopted. A prospective transition approach is required for debt 
securities. An entity that has previously applied the guidance of FASB ASC 310-30 will prospectively apply the guidance 
in this Update for PCD assets. A prospective transition approach should be used for PCD assets where upon adoption, 
the amortized cost basis should be adjusted to reflect the addition of the allowance for credit losses. The Company is 
anticipating adopting the Update on January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, the Company expects a change in the processes, 
internal controls and procedures to calculate the allowance for loan losses, including changes in assumptions and 
estimates to consider expected credit losses over the life of the loan versus the current accounting practice that utilizes 
the incurred loss model. The new guidance may result in an increase in the allowance for loan losses which will also 
reflect the new requirement to include the nonaccretable principal differences on PCI loans; however, the Company 
is  still  in  the  process  of  determining  the  magnitude  of  the  increase  and  its  impact  on  the  Consolidated  Financial 
Statements.  In  addition,  the  current  accounting  policy  and  procedures  for  other-than-temporary  impairment  on 
investment securities available for sale will be replaced with an allowance approach. During 2017, the Company's 
management created a CECL steering committee to ensure it is fully compliant with the amendments at the adoption 
date. During 2018, the CECL steering committee selected a vendor to assist the Company in the adoption, completed 
the implementation discovery sessions, and selected appropriate methodologies. The CECL steering committee is in 
the process of refining key data to process through its CECL models and developing formal CECL processes and 
procedures. The Company anticipates running parallel existing ALLL and CECL models by second quarter 2019.

FASB ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash 
Payments, was issued in August 2016. The Update addresses eight specific cash flow issues with the objective of 
reducing the existing diversity in practice. For public business entities, the guidance was effective for fiscal years 
beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and must be applied using a 
retrospective transitional method to each period presented. The Company adopted this Update on January 1, 2018.  
The adoption did not have a significant impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements as cash proceeds received 
from  the  settlement  of  bank-owned  life  insurance  policies  and  cash  payments  for  premiums  on  bank-owned  life 
insurance policies were previously classified as cash inflows and outflows, respectively, from investing activities in the 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

FASB ASU 2017-04, Goodwill (Topic 350), was issued in January 2017 and eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill 
impairment test. Under the amendments, an entity should perform its goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair 
value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount. An entity should recognize an impairment charge for the amount by 
which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value. The loss recognized, however, should not exceed 
the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Additionally, an entity should consider income tax effects 
from any tax deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit when measuring the goodwill impairment 
loss, if applicable.  The Update is effective for annual periods or any interim goodwill impairment tests beginning after 
December 15, 2019 using a prospective transition method and early adoption is permitted. The Company does not 
expect the Update will have a material impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

FASB  ASU  2017-08,  Receivables—Nonrefundable  Fees  and  Other  Costs  (Subtopic  310-20):  Premium 
Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities was issued in March 2017 and changes the accounting for certain 

84

 
 
 
purchased callable debt securities held at a premium to shorten the amortization period for the premium to the earliest 
call date rather than to the maturity date. Accounting for purchased callable debt securities held at a discount does 
not change. The discount would continue to amortize to the maturity date. The Update is effective for reporting periods 
beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company adopted this Update in January 
2018. The adoption did not have a material impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements as the Company had 
been accounting for premiums as prescribed under this guidance.

FASB ASU 2017-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting was 
issued in May 2017 to provide clarity as to when to apply modification accounting when there is a change in the terms 
or conditions of a share-based payment award. According to this Update, an entity should account for the effects of a 
modification unless the fair value, vesting conditions and balance sheet classification of the award is the same after 
the modification as compared to the original award prior to the modification. The Update was effective for reporting 
periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted the Update on January 1, 2018. The adoption did 
not have a material impact on its Consolidated Financial Statements because no share-based payment award was 
modified  during  the  year  ended  December  31,  2018.  The  Company  will  apply  this  Update  prospectively  for  any 
subsequent modifications of share-based payment awards.

FASB ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of 
Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income was issued to address the income tax accounting 
treatment of the stranded tax effects within other comprehensive income due to the prohibition of backward tracing 
due to an income tax rate change that was initially recorded in other comprehensive income. This issue came about 
from the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on December 22, 2017 ("Tax Cuts and Jobs Act") that changed the 
Company’s income tax rate from 35% to 21%. The Update changed current accounting whereby an entity may elect 
to reclassify the stranded tax effect from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to retained earnings. The 
Update is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2018 and early adoption was permitted. The Company 
early adopted ASU 2018-02 effective December 31, 2017 and elected a portfolio policy to reclassify the stranded tax 
effects of the change in the federal corporate tax rate of the net unrealized gains on its available-for-sale investment 
securities of $218,000 from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net to retained earnings. See the Consolidated 
Statements of Stockholders' Equity. 

FASB ASU  2018-05,  Income  Taxes  (Topic  740): Amendments  to  SEC  Paragraphs  Pursuant  to  SEC  Staff 
Accounting Bulletin No. 118 was issued to provide guidance on the income tax accounting implications of the Tax Cuts 
and Jobs Act, and allows for entities to report provisional amounts for specific income tax effects of the Tax Cuts and 
Jobs Act for which the accounting under ASC Topic 740 was not yet complete but a reasonable estimate could be 
determined. A measurement period of one-year is allowed to complete the accounting effects under ASC Topic 740 
and revise any previous estimates reported. Any provisional amounts or subsequent adjustments included in an entity’s 
financial statements during the measurement period should be included in income from continuing operations as an 
adjustment to tax expense in the reporting period the amounts are determined. The Company adopted this Update 
with the provisional adjustments as reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements on Form 10-K as of December 
31, 2017. As of December 31, 2018, the Company did not incur any adjustments to the provisional recognition.

FASB  ASU  2018-13,  Disclosure  Framework  -  Changes  to  the  Disclosure  Requirements  for  Fair  Value 
Measurement, was issued in August 2018 and modifies the disclosure requirements on fair value measurements in 
Topic 820. The amendments in this Update are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those 
fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. The Company does not expect the Update will have a material impact 
on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

(2) 

Business Combinations

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company completed the acquisitions of Puget Sound Bancorp 
and Premier Commercial Bancorp. There were no acquisitions completed during the year ended December 31, 2017.

Puget Sound Merger:

On July 26, 2017, the Company, along with the Bank, and Puget Sound Bancorp, Inc. and its wholly owned 
subsidiary bank, Puget Sound Bank, jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement. The Puget Sound Merger 
was effective on January 16, 2018. As of the acquisition date, Puget Sound merged into Heritage and Puget Sound 
Bank merged into Heritage Bank.

Pursuant to the terms of the Puget Sound Merger, all outstanding Puget Sound restricted stock awards became 
immediately vested on the acquisition date of the Puget Sound Merger. Puget Sound shareholders received 1.1688
shares of Heritage common stock per share of Puget Sound stock. Heritage issued an aggregate of 4,112,258 shares 
of its common stock based on the January 12, 2018 closing price of Heritage Common stock of $31.80 for total fair 

85

 
 
 
 
 
value of common shares issued of $130.8 million and paid cash of $3,000 for fractional shares in the transaction for 
total consideration paid of $130.8 million. Total consideration includes $851,000 representing 26,741 shares which 
were forfeited by the Puget Sound shareholders to pay applicable taxes.

The Company incurred acquisition-related costs of approximately $5.4 million and $810,000 for the year ended 

December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, for the Puget Sound Merger.

Premier Merger:

On March 24, 2018, the Company, along with the Bank, and Premier Commercial Bancorp and its wholly 
owned subsidiary bank, Premier Community Bank, jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement. The Premier 
Merger was effective on July 2, 2018. As of the acquisition date, Premier merged into Heritage and Premier Commercial 
Bank merged into Heritage Bank.

Pursuant to the terms of the Premier Merger, Premier Commercial shareholders received 0.4863 shares of 
Heritage common stock in exchange for each share of Premier Commercial common stock based on the closing date 
price per share of Heritage common stock on June 29, 2018 of $34.85. Heritage issued an aggregate of 2,848,579
shares of its common stock and paid cash of $2,000 for fractional shares in the transaction for total consideration paid 
of $99.3 million.

The Company incurred acquisition-related costs of approximately $4.9 million for the year ended December 31, 

2018 for the Premier Merger. 

Business Combination Accounting:

The Premier Merger and Puget Sound Merger resulted in $53.4 million and $68.5 million, respectively, of 

goodwill. This goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.

The primary reason for the Premier and Puget Mergers was to create depth in the Company's geographic 
footprint consistent with its ongoing growth strategy, focused heavily on metro markets, and to achieve operational 
scale  and  realize  efficiencies  of  a  larger  combined  organization. The  mergers  constitute  business  acquisitions  as 
defined by FASB ASC 805, Business Combinations. FASB ASC 805 establishes principles and requirements for how 
the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired and 
the  liabilities  assumed.  Heritage  was  considered  the  acquirer  in  these  transactions. Accordingly,  the  preliminary 
estimates of fair values of Premier Commercial and Puget Sound assets, including the identifiable intangible assets, 
and the assumed liabilities, were measured and recorded as of the respective acquisition dates. Fair values on the 
acquisition dates are preliminary and represent management’s best estimates based on available information and 
facts and circumstances in existence on the acquisition date. Fair values are subject to refinement for up to one year 
after the closing date of the acquisitions as additional information regarding the closing date fair values becomes 
available. The Company finalized the purchase price allocation for both mergers as of December 31, 2018 and recorded 
an adjustment to the Premier Commercial fair values of total loans receivable, prepaid expenses and other assets and 
accrued expenses and other liabilities during the quarter end December 31, 2018 with a net impact to goodwill acquired 
of $102,000.

86

The fair value estimates of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Premier and Puget Mergers were 

as follows:

Premier Merger

Puget Sound Merger

(In thousands)

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents

Interest earning deposits

Investment securities available for sale
Loans receivable (1)
Other real estate owned

Premises and equipment, net

Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost

Bank owned life insurance

Accrued interest receivable

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Other intangible assets

Total assets acquired

Liabilities
Deposits

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Securities sold under agreement to repurchase

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Total liabilities acquired

Fair value of net assets acquired

$

22,534 $

3,309

4,493

330,158

1,796

3,053

1,120

10,852

1,006

1,603

7,075

386,999 $

25,889

54,247

80,353

388,462

—

732

623

6,264

1,448

1,354

11,270

570,642

318,717 $

505,885

16,000

462

5,935

341,114 $

—

—

2,504

508,389

45,885 $

62,253

$

$

$

$

(1)  The outstanding loan balance acquired in the Premier Merger and Puget Sound Merger was $335.4 million and $392.7 

million, respectively, at the acquisition date.

A  summary  of  the  net  assets  purchased  and  the  estimated  fair  value  adjustments  and  resulting  goodwill 
recognized from the Premier and Puget Sound Mergers are presented in the following tables. Goodwill represents the 
excess of the consideration transferred over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

Consideration transferred

Cost basis of net assets on merger date

Fair value adjustments:

Investment securities

Total loans receivable, net
Other real estate owned

Premises and equipment

Other intangible assets

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Deposits

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Fair value of net assets on merger date

Goodwill recognized from the mergers

87

Premier Merger

Puget Sound Merger

(In thousands)

99,275 $

130,773

40,629 $

54,405

(135)
(111)
(1,017)

1,312

7,075

(1,912)

(310)

354

(348)
1,400

—

(121)

9,207

(2,282)

(62)

54

45,885 $

62,253

53,390 $

68,520

$

$

$

$

The operating results of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2018 include the operating results 
produced by the net assets acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers since the July 2, 2018 and January 16, 2018 
merger dates. The Company has considered the requirement of FASB ASC 805 related to the contribution of the 
Premier and Puget Mergers to the Company’s results of operations. The table below presents only the significant 
results for the acquired businesses since the July 2, 2018 and January 16, 2018 merger dates:

Interest income: Interest and fees on loans (2)
Interest income: Interest and fees on investments (3)
Interest income: Other interest earning assets

Interest expense

Provision for loan losses for loans

Noninterest income
Noninterest expense (4)
Net effect, pre-tax

Premier 
Merger (1)

Puget Sound 
Merger (1)
Year ended December 31, 2018

Total

(In thousands)

$

10,462 $

21,898 $

32,360

76

174

(445)

(700)

125

59

113

(682)

(850)

472

135

287

(1,127)

(1,550)

597

(7,558)

(11,230)

(18,788)

11,914
(1) The Premier Merger was completed on July 2, 2018. The Puget Sound Merger was completed on January 16, 2018. 
(2) Includes the accretion of the discount on the purchased loans of $4.1 million during the year ended December 31, 2018.
(3) All securities acquired in the Puget Sound Merger were sold with trade date of January 16, 2018 and settlement dates 

9,780 $

2,134 $

$

on or before February 14, 2018.

(4) Excludes certain compensation and employee benefits for management as it is impracticable to determine due to the 
integration of the operations for this merger. Also includes certain acquisition-related costs incurred by the Company.

The following table presents certain pro forma information, for illustrative purposes only, for the years ended 
December 31, 2018 and 2017 as if the Premier and Puget Mergers had occurred on January 1, 2017. The estimated 
pro forma information combines the historical results of Premier Commercial and Puget Sound with the Company's 
consolidated historical results and includes certain adjustments reflecting the estimated impact of certain fair value 
adjustments for the respective periods. The pro forma information is not indicative of what would have occurred had 
the Premier and Puget Mergers occurred on January 1, 2017. In particular, the pro forma information does not consider 
any changes to the provision for loan losses resulting from recorded loans at fair value. Additionally, Heritage expects 
to achieve further operating savings and other business synergies, including interest income growth, as a result of the 
Premier and Puget Mergers which are not reflected in the pro forma amounts in the following table.  As a result, actual 
amounts will differ from the pro forma information presented.

Net interest income

Net income
Basic earnings per common share

Dilutive Earnings per common share

Pro Forma for the Year Ended
December 31,

2018

2017

(Dollars in thousands, except per
share amounts)

$

$

$

194,989 $

174,190

69,515

41,551

1.88 $

1.87 $

1.12

1.12

The Company believes that the historical Premier Commercial and Puget Sound operating results, individually 

or collectively, are not considered of enough significance to be meaningful to the Company’s results of operations.

(3) 

Investment Securities

The Company’s investment policy is designed primarily to provide and maintain liquidity, generate a favorable 

return on assets without incurring undue interest rate and credit risk, and complement the Bank’s lending activities.

As  a  result  of  the  adoption  of  FASB ASU  2016-01  on  January  1,  2018,  equity  investments  (except  for 
investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting) are now measured at fair value, with changes in 
fair value recognized in earnings. These investments were previously measured at fair value, with changes in fair value 

88

 
recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Accordingly, these securities are no longer classified 
as investment securities available for sale and their presentation is not comparable to the presentation as of December 
31, 2017. See Note (1) Description of Business, Basis of Presentation, Significant Accounting Policies and Recently 
Issued Accounting Pronouncements, as well as the Equity Securities section discussed below.

Available for sale investment securities

(a) Securities by Type and Maturity

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and fair values of investment securities 

available for sale at the dates indicated were as follows:

December 31, 2018
U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored

agencies

Municipal securities
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized 

mortgage obligations (1):
Residential

Commercial

Corporate obligations

Other asset-backed securities

Total

December 31, 2017
U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored

agencies

Municipal securities

Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized 

mortgage obligations (1):
Residential

Commercial

Collateralized loan obligations

Corporate obligations
Other securities (2)

Amortized
Cost

Gross
Unrealized
Gains

Gross
Unrealized
Losses

(In thousands)

Fair
Value

$

101,595 $

155 $

158,461

1,209

(147) $

(806)

101,603

158,864

337,295

338,250
25,662

24,278

426

1,035

36

424

(6,119)

(5,524)

(135)

—

331,602

333,761

25,563

24,702

$

985,541 $

3,285 $

(12,731) $

976,095

$

13,460 $

6 $

(24) $

247,358

3,720

(1,063)

282,724

219,696
4,561

16,594

27,781

422

444

19

220

652

(2,935)

(3,061)

—

(44)

—

13,442

250,015

280,211

217,079

4,580

16,770

28,433

Total
812,174 $
(1)  Issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.
(2)  Primarily asset-backed securities.

$

5,483 $

(7,127) $

810,530

There were no securities classified as trading or held to maturity at December 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017.

89

The  amortized  cost  and  fair  value  of  investment  securities  available  for  sale  at  December 31,  2018,  by 
contractual  maturity,  are  set  forth  below. Actual  maturities  may  differ  from  contractual  maturities  because  certain 
borrowers have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.

Due in one year or less

Due after one year through five years

Due after five years through ten years

Due after ten years

Total

Amortized
Cost

Fair Value

(In thousands)
38,547 $

$

193,191

272,408

481,395

$

985,541 $

38,478

192,556

268,779

476,282

976,095

(b) Unrealized Losses and Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair value of the Company's investment securities 
available for sale that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, aggregated by investment category and 
length of time that the individual securities have been in continuous unrealized loss positions as of December 31, 2018
and December 31, 2017:

Less than 12 Months

12 Months or Longer

Total

Fair
Value

Unrealized
Losses

Fair
Value

Unrealized
Losses

Fair
Value

Unrealized
Losses

(In thousands)

December 31, 2018
U.S. Treasury and U.S.

Government-sponsored
agencies

Municipal securities

Mortgage-backed securities and 
collateralized mortgage 
obligations (1):
Residential
Commercial

Corporate obligations

Total

December 31, 2017
U.S. Treasury and U.S.

Government-sponsored
agencies

Municipal securities

Mortgage-backed securities and 
collateralized mortgage 
obligations (1):
Residential

Commercial

Corporate obligations

$

46,992 $

(58) $

7,350 $

(89) $

54,342 $

31,157

(159)

38,792

(647)

69,949

(147)

(806)

66,620
43,531

13,736
$ 202,036 $

(247)
(272)

(87)

193,726
190,585

1,951

(5,872)
(5,252)

(48)

260,346
234,116

15,687

(6,119)
(5,524)

(135)

(823) $ 432,404 $ (11,908) $ 634,440 $ (12,731)

$

11,436 $

(24) $

— $

— $

11,436 $

(24)

39,298

(384)

26,509

(679)

65,807

(1,063)

175,847

(1,296)

75,121
3,472
$ 305,174 $

(700)

(44)

66,380

90,822

—

(1,639)

(2,361)

—

242,227

165,943

3,472

(2,935)

(3,061)

(44)

(4,679) $ 488,885 $

(7,127)

Total
(1) Issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.

(2,448) $ 183,711 $

90

The Company has evaluated these investment securities available for sale as of December 31, 2018 and 
December 31, 2017 and has determined that the decline in their value is not other-than-temporary. The unrealized 
losses are primarily due to increases in market interest rates. The fair value of these securities is expected to recover 
as the securities approach their maturity date. None of the underlying issuers of the municipal securities and corporate 
obligations had credit ratings that were below investment grade levels at December 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017. 
The Company has the ability and intent to hold the investments until recovery of the securities' amortized cost which 
may be the maturity date of the securities.

For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 there were no other-than-temporary charges recorded 

to net income.

(c) Realized Gains and Losses

The following table presents the gross realized gains and losses on the sale of securities available for sale 

for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016:

Gross realized gains

Gross realized losses
Net realized gains

(d) Pledged Securities

Year ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

$

273 $

(136)

137 $

193 $

(187)

6 $

1,518

(203)

1,315

The following table summarizes the amortized cost and fair value of investment securities available for sale 

that are pledged as collateral for the following obligations at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

December 31, 2018
Fair
Value

Amortized
Cost

December 31, 2017
Fair
Value

Amortized
Cost

(In thousands)

$

$

199,026 $

196,786 $

206,377 $

206,425

48,173

20,778

47,407

20,482

48,750

12,484

48,237

12,498

267,977 $

264,675 $

267,611 $

267,160

Washington and Oregon state to secure public

deposits

Repurchase agreements

Other securities pledged

Total

(e) Equity Securities

The Company holds an equity security with a readily determinable fair value of $114,000 and $146,000 as of 
December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. As a result of the adoption of FASB ASU 2016-01, this 
security is no longer classified as an investment security available for sale and has been reclassified to prepaid expenses 
and other assets on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2018. As 
such, its presentation is not comparable to the presentation as of December 31, 2017. The Company recorded the 
tax-effected unrealized gain on the equity security through an adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income 
(loss), net and retained earnings in the Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity during the year ended December 
31, 2018.

(4) 

Loans Receivable

The Company originates loans in the ordinary course of business and has also acquired loans through mergers 
and acquisitions. Disclosures related to the Company's recorded investment in loans receivable generally exclude 
accrued interest receivable and net deferred fees or costs as they were deemed insignificant.

(a) Loan Origination/Risk Management

The Company categorizes loans in one of the four segments of the total loan portfolio: commercial business, 
one-to-four family residential, real estate construction and land development and consumer. Within these segments 

91

 
 
are classes of loans for which management monitors and assesses credit risk in the loan portfolios. The Company 
has certain lending policies and procedures in place that are designed to maximize loan income within an acceptable 
level of risk. Management reviews and approves these policies and procedures on a regular basis. A reporting system 
supplements the review process by providing management with frequent reports related to loan production, loan quality, 
concentrations  of  credit,  loan  delinquencies  and  nonperforming  and  criticized  loans. The  Company  also  conducts 
internal loan reviews and validates the credit risk assessment on a periodic basis and presents the results of these 
reviews to management. The loan review process complements and reinforces the risk identification and assessment 
decisions made by loan officers and credit personnel, as well as the Company’s policies and procedures.

A discussion of the risk characteristics of each loan portfolio segment is as follows:

Commercial Business:

There are three significant classes of loans in the commercial business portfolio segment: commercial and 
industrial, owner-occupied commercial real estate and non-owner occupied commercial real estate. The owner and 
non-owner  occupied  commercial  real  estate  classes  are  both  considered  commercial  real  estate  loans.  As  the 
commercial and industrial loans carry different risk characteristics than the commercial real estate loans, they are 
discussed separately below.

Commercial and industrial. Commercial and industrial loans are primarily made based on the identified cash 
flows of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. The cash flows of borrowers, 
however, may not be as expected and the collateral securing these loans may fluctuate in value. Most commercial and 
industrial loans are secured by the assets being financed or other business assets such as accounts receivable or 
inventory and may include a personal guarantee; however, some short-term loans may be made on an unsecured 
basis. In the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans 
may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers. Commercial 
and industrial loans carry more risk than other loans because the borrowers’ cash flow is less predictable, and in the 
event of a default, the amount of loss is potentially greater and more difficult to quantify because the value of the 
collateral securing these loans may fluctuate, may be uncollectible, or may be obsolete or of limited use, among other 
things.

Commercial real estate. The Company originates commercial real estate loans primarily within its primary 
market areas. These loans are subject to underwriting standards and processes similar to commercial and industrial 
loans in that these loans are viewed primarily as cash flow loans and secondarily as loans secured by real estate 
properties. Commercial real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts and payments on loans, 
and repayment is dependent on successful operation and management of the properties. The value of the real estate 
securing these loans can be adversely affected by conditions in the real estate market or the economy. There is little 
difference in risk between owner-occupied commercial real estate loans and non-owner occupied commercial real 
estate loans.

One-to-Four Family Residential:

The majority of the Company’s one-to-four family residential loans are secured by single-family residences 
located in its primary market areas. The Company’s underwriting standards require that single-family portfolio loans 
generally are owner-occupied and do not exceed 80% of the lower of appraised value at origination or cost of the 
underlying collateral. Terms of maturity typically range from 15 to 30 years. The Company sells most of its single-family 
loans in the secondary market and retains a smaller portion in its loan portfolio.

Real Estate Construction and Land Development:

The  Company  originates  construction  loans  for  one-to-four  family  residential  and  for  five  or  more  family 
residential  and  commercial  properties.  The  one-to-four  family  residential  construction  loans  generally  include 
construction of custom homes whereby the home buyer is the borrower. The Company also provides financing to 
builders for the construction of pre-sold homes and, in selected cases, to builders for the construction of speculative 
residential  property.  Substantially  all  construction  loans  are  short-term  in  nature  and  priced  with  variable  rates  of 
interest. Construction lending can involve a higher level of risk than other types of lending because funds are advanced 
partially  based  upon  the  value  of  the  project,  which  is  uncertain  prior  to  the  project’s  completion. Because  of  the 
uncertainties inherent in estimating construction costs as well as the market value of a completed project and the 
effects of governmental regulation of real property, the Company’s estimates with regard to the total funds required to 
complete a project and the related loan-to-value ratio may vary from actual results. As a result, construction loans often 
involve the disbursement of substantial funds with repayment dependent, in part, on the success of the ultimate project 
and the ability of the borrower to sell or lease the property or refinance the indebtedness. If the Company’s estimate 
of the value of a project at completion proves to be overstated, it may have inadequate security for repayment of the 
loan and may incur a loss if the borrower does not repay the loan. Sources of repayment for these types of loans may 

92

be pre-committed permanent loans from approved long-term lenders, sales of developed property or an interim loan 
commitment from the Company until permanent financing is obtained. These loans are closely monitored by on-site 
inspections and are considered to have higher risks than other real estate loans due to their ultimate repayment being 
dependent upon successful completion of the construction project, interest rate changes, government regulation of 
real property, general economic conditions and the availability of long-term financing.

Consumer:

The  Company  originates  consumer  loans  and  lines  of  credit  that  are  both  secured  and  unsecured.  The 
underwriting process for these loans ensures a qualifying primary and secondary source of repayment. Underwriting 
standards for home equity loans are significantly influenced by statutory requirements, which include, but are not limited 
to, a maximum loan-to-value percentage of 80%, collection remedies, the number of such loans a borrower can have 
at one time and documentation requirements. To monitor and manage consumer loan risk, policies and procedures 
are developed and modified, as needed. The majority of consumer loans are for relatively small amounts disbursed 
among many individual borrowers which reduces the credit risk for this type of loan. To further reduce the risk, trend 
reports are reviewed by management on a regular basis.

The Company also originates indirect consumer loans. These loans are for new and used automobile and 
recreational vehicles that are originated indirectly by selected dealers located in the Company's market areas. The 
Company has limited its purchase of indirect loans primarily to dealerships that are established and well-known in their 
market areas and to applicants that are not classified as sub-prime.

Loans receivable at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 consisted of the following portfolio segments 

and classes:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial properties

Total real estate construction and land development

Consumer

Gross loans receivable

Net deferred loan costs

 Loans receivable, net

Allowance for loan losses

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

$

853,606 $

779,814

1,304,463

2,937,883

101,763

102,730
112,730
215,460

395,545

3,650,651

3,509

3,654,160

(35,042)

645,396

622,150

986,594

2,254,140

86,997

51,985
97,499

149,484

355,091

2,845,712

3,359

2,849,071

(32,086)

 Total loans receivable, net

$

3,619,118 $

2,816,985

(b) Concentrations of Credit

Most of the Company’s lending activity occurs within its primary market areas which are concentrated along 
the I-5 corridor from Whatcom County to Clark County in Washington State and Multnomah County and Washington 
County in Oregon, as well as other contiguous markets. The majority of the Company’s loan portfolio consists of (in 
order of balances at December 31, 2018) non-owner occupied commercial real estate, commercial and industrial and 
owner-occupied  commercial  real  estate.  As  of  December 31,  2018  and  December 31,  2017,  there  were  no
concentrations of loans related to any single industry in excess of 10% of the Company’s total loans.

93

(c) Credit Quality Indicators

As part of the on-going monitoring of the credit quality of the Company’s loan portfolio, management tracks 
certain credit quality indicators including trends related to (i) the risk grade of the loans, (ii) the level of classified loans, 
(iii) net charge-offs, (iv) nonperforming loans and (v) the general economic conditions of the United States of America, 
and specifically the states of Washington and Oregon. The Company utilizes a risk grading matrix to assign a risk 
grade to each of its loans. Loans are graded on a scale of 1 to 10. A description of the general characteristics of the 
risk grades is as follows:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Grades 1 to 5: These grades are considered “pass grade” and include loans with negligible to above 
average but acceptable risk. These borrowers generally have strong to acceptable capital levels and 
consistent earnings and debt service capacity. Loans with the higher grades within the “pass” category 
may  include  borrowers  who  are  experiencing  unusual  operating  difficulties,  but  have  acceptable 
payment performance to date. Increased monitoring of financial information and/or collateral may be 
appropriate. Loans with this grade show no immediate loss exposure.

Grade 6: This grade includes "Watch" loans and is considered a “pass grade”. The grade is intended 
to  be  utilized  on  a  temporary  basis  for  pass  grade  borrowers  where  a  potentially  significant  risk-
modifying action is anticipated in the near term.

Grade 7: This grade includes “Other Assets Especially Mentioned” (“OAEM”) loans in accordance with 
regulatory guidelines, and is intended to highlight loans with elevated risks. Loans with this grade 
show signs of deteriorating profits and capital, and the borrower might not be strong enough to sustain 
a major setback. The borrower is typically higher than normally leveraged, and outside support might 
be modest and likely illiquid. The loan is at risk of further decline unless active measures are taken to 
correct the situation.

Grade 8: This grade includes “Substandard” loans in accordance with regulatory guidelines, which 
the Company has determined have a high credit risk. These loans also have well-defined weaknesses 
which make payment default or principal exposure likely, but not yet certain. The borrower may have 
shown serious negative trends in financial ratios and performance. Such loans may be dependent 
upon collateral liquidation, a secondary source of repayment or an event outside of the normal course 
of  business.  Loans  with  this  grade  can  be  placed  on  accrual  or  nonaccrual  status  based  on  the 
Company’s accrual policy.

Grade  9:  This  grade  includes  “Doubtful”  loans  in  accordance  with  regulatory  guidelines,  and  the 
Company  has  determined  these  loans  to  have  excessive  credit  risk.  Such  loans  are  placed  on 
nonaccrual status and may be dependent upon collateral having a value that is difficult to determine 
or upon some near-term event which lacks certainty. Additionally, these loans generally have a specific 
valuation allowance or have been partially charged-off for the amount considered uncollectible.

Grade 10: This grade includes “Loss” loans in accordance with regulatory guidelines, and the Company 
has determined these loans have the highest risk of loss. Such loans are charged-off or charged-down 
when payment is acknowledged to be uncertain or when the timing or value of payments cannot be 
determined. “Loss” is not intended to imply that the loan or some portion of it will never be paid, nor 
does it in any way imply that there has been a forgiveness of debt.

Numerical loan grades for loans are established at the origination of the loan. Loan grades are reviewed on 
a quarterly basis, or more frequently if necessary, by the credit department. For consumer loans, the Bank follows the 
FDIC’s Uniform Retail Credit Classification and Account Management Policy for subsequent classification in the event 
of payment delinquencies or default. Typically, an individual loan grade will not be changed from the prior period unless 
there is a specific indication of credit deterioration or improvement. Credit deterioration is evidenced by delinquency, 
direct communications with the borrower, or other borrower information that becomes known to management. Credit 
improvements are evidenced by known facts regarding the borrower or the collateral property.

The loan grades relate to the likelihood of losses in that the higher the grade, the greater the loss potential. 
Loans with a pass grade may have some estimated inherent losses, but to a lesser extent than the other loan grades. 
The OAEM loan grade is transitory in that the Company is waiting on additional information to determine the likelihood 
and extent of the potential loss. The likelihood of loss for OAEM graded loans, however, is greater than Watch graded 
loans because there has been measurable credit deterioration. Loans with a Substandard grade are generally loans 
for which the Company has individually analyzed for potential impairment. For Doubtful and Loss graded loans, the 
Company  is  almost  certain  of  the  losses,  and  the  outstanding  principal  balances  are  generally  charged-off  to  the 
realizable value.

94

The following tables present the balance of the loans receivable by credit quality indicator as of December 31, 

2018 and December 31, 2017.

December 31, 2018

Pass

OAEM

Substandard

Doubtful/
Loss

Total

(In thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

788,395 $

16,168 $

49,043 $

— $

853,606

Owner-occupied commercial real

estate

Non-owner occupied commercial

real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential
Real estate construction and land

development:

741,227

27,724

10,863

1,283,077

2,812,699
100,401

9,438

53,330

—

One-to-four family residential
Five or more family residential
and commercial properties

Total real estate construction
and land development

101,519

112,678

214,197

258

52

310

Consumer

Gross loans receivable

390,808
$ 3,518,105 $

—
53,640 $

11,948
71,854
1,362

953

—

953

4,213

78,382 $

524 $ 3,650,651

December 31, 2017

Pass

OAEM

Substandard

Doubtful/
Loss

Total

(In thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

597,697 $

19,536 $

28,163 $

— $

645,396

Owner-occupied commercial real

estate

Non-owner occupied commercial

real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential
and commercial properties

Total real estate construction

and land development

Consumer

Gross loans receivable

595,455

12,668

14,027

955,450

2,148,602

85,762

49,925

96,404

10,494

42,698

—

537

707

146,329
349,590
$ 2,730,283 $

1,244

—
43,942 $

20,650

62,840

1,235

1,523

388

1,911
4,976

70,962 $

525 $ 2,845,712

 Potential problem loans are loans classified as OAEM or worse that are currently accruing interest and are 
not considered impaired, but which management is closely monitoring because the financial information of the borrower 
causes concern as to their ability to meet their loan repayment terms. Potential problem loans may include PCI loans 
as these loans continue to accrete loan discounts established at acquisition based on the guidance of FASB ASC 
310-30. Potential problem loans as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were $101.3 million and $83.5 
million, respectively. 

95

—

—
—
—

—

—

—

524

779,814

1,304,463
2,937,883
101,763

102,730

112,730

215,460

395,545

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

525

622,150

986,594

2,254,140

86,997

51,985

97,499

149,484

355,091

 
(d) Nonaccrual Loans

Nonaccrual loans, segregated by segments and classes of loans, were as follows as of December 31, 2018 

and December 31, 2017:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Total real estate construction and land development

Consumer

Nonaccrual loans

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

$

6,639 $

4,212

1,713

12,564

71

899

899

169

$

13,703 $

3,110

4,090

1,898

9,098

81

1,247

1,247

277

10,703

PCI loans are not included in the nonaccrual loan table above because these loans are accounted for under 

FASB ASC 310-30, which provides that accretable yield is calculated based on a loan's expected cash flow even if 
the loan is not performing under its contractual terms.

(e) Past due loans

The Company performs an aging analysis of past due loans using policies consistent with regulatory reporting 

requirements with categories of 30-89 days past due and 90 or more days past due. 

The balances of past due loans, segregated by segments and classes of loans, as of December 31, 2018 and 

December 31, 2017 were as follows:

December 31, 2018

30-89 Days

90 Days or
Greater

Total Past 
Due

Current

Total

(In thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

2,988 $

2,281 $

5,269 $

848,337 $

853,606

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

563

600

1,163

778,651

779,814

Non-owner occupied commercial real

estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and

commercial properties
Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

5,347

8,898

227

665

—

665

2,568

1,461

4,342

—

6,808

1,297,655

1,304,463

13,240

2,924,643

2,937,883

227

101,536

101,763

234

—

234

—

899

101,831

102,730

—

112,730

112,730

899

2,568

214,561

392,977

215,460

395,545

Gross loans receivable

$

12,358 $

4,576 $ 16,934 $ 3,633,717 $ 3,650,651

96

 
December 31, 2017

30-89 Days

90 Days or
Greater

Total Past 
Due

Current

Total

(In thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

2,993 $

1,172 $

4,165 $

641,231 $

645,396

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

1,277

1,225

2,502

619,648

622,150

Non-owner occupied commercial real

estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and

commercial properties

Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

870

5,140

513

84

40

3,314

5,711

—

4,184

982,410

986,594

10,851

2,243,289

2,254,140

513

86,484

86,997

1,331

1,415

50,570

51,985

—

40

97,459

97,499

124

1,939

1,331

687

1,455

2,626

148,029

352,465

149,484

355,091

Gross loans receivable

$

7,716 $

7,729 $ 15,445 $ 2,830,267 $ 2,845,712

There were no loans 90 days or more past due that were still accruing interest as of December 31, 2018 or 

December 31, 2017, excluding PCI loans.

(f) Impaired loans

Impaired loans include nonaccrual loans and performing TDR loans. The balances of impaired loans as of 

December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are set forth in the following tables:

December 31, 2018

Recorded
Investment With
No Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Recorded
Investment With
Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Total
Recorded
Investment

(In thousands)

Unpaid
Contractual
Principal
Balance

Related
Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

2,523 $

20,119 $

22,642 $

24,176 $

2,607

Owner-occupied commercial

real estate

Non-owner occupied

commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Total real estate

construction and land
development

Consumer

Total

816

3,352

6,691

—

899

899

—

$

7,590 $

5,000

5,816

6,150

2,924

28,043

279

6,276

34,734

279

6,414

36,740

293

1,662

1,662

538

899

899

527

1,142

206

3,955

76

—

—

139

36,439 $

39,233 $

4,170

—

—

527
28,849 $

97

 
 
December 31, 2017

Recorded
Investment With
No Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Recorded
Investment With
Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Total
Recorded
Investment

(In thousands)

Unpaid
Contractual
Principal
Balance

Related
Specific
Valuation
Allowance

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

2,127 $

9,872 $

11,999 $

12,489 $

1,326

Owner-occupied commercial

real estate

Non-owner occupied

commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential
and commercial properties

Total real estate

construction and land
development

Consumer

Total

2,452

4,722

9,301

—

938

—

938

160

$

10,399 $

4,356

6,808

7,054

11,297

25,525

299

16,019

34,826

299

16,172

35,715

308

309

645

954

282
27,060 $

1,247

2,200

645

645

1,892

442

2,845

466

621

1,222

3,169

93

2

37

39

54

37,459 $

39,334 $

3,355

The average recorded investment of impaired loans for the year ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 

are set forth in the following table:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial properties

Total real estate construction and land development

Consumer

Total

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

16,773 $
11,312

9,465

37,550

290

1,091

129

1,220

428

11,310 $

5,401

12,162

28,873

309

2,315

903

3,218

351

10,207

4,540

11,709

26,456

279

3,305

1,656

4,961

645

$

39,488 $

32,751 $

32,341

For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, no interest income was recognized subsequent to 
a loan’s classification as nonaccrual. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, the Bank recorded 
$1.4 million, $1.2 million and $651,000, respectively, of interest income related to performing TDR loans. 

(g) Troubled Debt Restructured Loans

The majority of the Bank’s TDR loans are a result of granting extensions of maturity on troubled credits which 
have already been adversely classified. The Bank grants such extensions to reassess the borrower’s financial status 
and to develop a plan for repayment. The second most prevalent concessions are certain modifications with extensions 
that also include interest rate reductions. Certain TDR loans were additionally re-amortized over a longer period of 

98

time. These modifications would all be considered a concession for a borrower that could not obtain similar financing 
terms from another source other than from the Bank.

The financial effects of each modification will vary based on the specific restructure. For the majority of the 
Bank’s TDR loans, the loans were interest-only with a balloon payment at maturity. If the interest rate is not adjusted 
and the modified terms are consistent with other similar credits being offered, the Bank may not experience any loss 
associated  with  the  restructure.  If,  however,  the  restructure  involves  forbearance  agreements  or  interest  rate 
modifications, the Bank may not collect all the principal and interest based on the original contractual terms. The Bank 
estimates the necessary allowance for loan losses on TDR loans using the same guidance as used for other impaired 
loans.

The recorded investment balance and related allowance for loan losses of performing and nonaccrual TDR 

loans as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were as follows:

TDR loans

Allowance for loan losses on TDR loans

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Performing
TDRs

Nonaccrual
TDRs

Performing
TDRs

Nonaccrual
TDRs

$

22,736 $

2,257

(In thousands)
6,943 $
658

26,757 $

2,635

5,193
379

The unfunded commitment to borrowers related to TDR loans was $943,000 and $1.2 million at December 31, 

2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. 

Loans that were modified as TDR loans during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are set 

forth in the following table:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

Number of
Contracts
 (1)

Recorded 
Investment 
(1) (2)

Number of
Contracts
 (1)

Recorded 
Investment 
(1) (2)

Number of
Contracts
 (1)

Recorded 
Investment 
(1) (2)

(Dollars in thousands)

31 $

16,129

19 $

7,212

19 $

7,398

4

3

38

2

—

2

13

2,521

2,944
21,594

665

—

665

236
22,495

3

4

26

2

—

2

8

1,366

9,574

18,152

938

—

938
110
19,200

2

2

23

5

1

6
6

569

2,121

10,088

2,206

1,078

3,284
66

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial

real estate

Non-owner occupied

commercial real estate

Total commercial business

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential
and commercial properties
Total real estate

construction and land
development

Consumer

Total TDR loans
(1) Number of contracts and outstanding principal balance represent loans which have balances as of period end as certain 

13,438

35 $

53 $

36 $

loans may have been paid-down or charged-off during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

(2) Includes subsequent payments after modifications and reflects the balance as of period end. As the Bank did not forgive 
any principal or interest balance as part of the loan modification, the Bank’s recorded investment in each loan at the 
date of modification (pre-modification) did not change as a result of the modification (post-modification), except when 
the modification was the initial advance on a one-to-four family residential real estate construction and land development 
loan under a master guidance line. There were no advances on these types of loans during the years ended December 
31, 2018, 2017 and 2016. 

99

 
The related specific valuation allowance at December 31, 2018 for loans that were modified as TDR loans 
during the year ended December 31, 2018 was $2.3 million. The related specific valuation allowance at December 31, 
2017 for loans that were modified as TDR loans during the year ended December 31, 2017 was $1.8 million. Certain 
loans included in the tables above may have been previously reported as TDR loans. The Bank typically grants shorter 
extension periods to continually monitor these TDR loans despite the fact that the extended date might not be the date 
the  Bank  expects  sufficient  cash  flow  from  these  borrowers.  The  Bank  does  not  consider  these  modifications  a 
subsequent default of a TDR as new loan terms, specifically new maturity dates, were granted. The potential losses 
related to these loans would have been considered in the period the loan was first reported as a TDR loan and are 
adjusted, as necessary, in the current period based on more recent information. 

Loans that were modified during the previous twelve months that subsequently defaulted during the years 

ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 are included in the following table: 

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

Number of
Contracts 

Recorded 
Investment (1)

Number of
Contracts

Recorded 
Investment (1)

Number of
Contracts

Recorded 
Investment (1)

(Dollars in thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Owner-occupied
commercial real estate

Total commercial
business

Real estate construction and
land development:

One-to-four family
residential

Total real estate

construction and
land development

Consumer

Total

5 $

1,890

1 $

1

6

2

2

—

65

1,955

665

665

—

1

2

2

2

1

283

80

363

938

938

7

— $

1

1

2

2

—

8 $

2,620

5 $

1,308

3 $

—

488

488

1,143

1,143

—

1,631

(1) Number of contracts and outstanding principal balance represent loans which have balances as of period end as certain 

loans may have been paid-down or charged-off during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, one commercial and industrial loan totaling $882,000 defaulted 
due to being greater than 90 days past due the modified terms during the year ended December 31, 2018. The remaining 
seven loans defaulted because they were past their modified maturity dates, and the borrowers have not subsequently 
repaid the credits. The Bank has chosen not to extend the maturities on these loans.The Bank had a specific valuation 
allowance of $260,000 at December 31, 2018 related to the credits which defaulted during the year ended December 
31, 2018. 

During the year ended December 31, 2017, one consumer loan defaulted due to being greater than 90 days 
past due the modified terms, but the loan became current as of December 31, 2017.  The remaining four loans defaulted 
as they were past their modified maturity dates, and the borrowers had not repaid the credits. The Bank has chosen 
not to extend the maturities on these loans. During the year ended December 31, 2016, all three loans defaulted 
because they were past their modified maturity dates, and the borrowers had not repaid the credits. At December 31, 
2016, the Bank was in the process of granting addition extensions on these loans. The Bank had a specific valuation 
allowance of $1,000 and $111,000 at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, related to the credits which defaulted 
during the related year ends. 

(h) Purchased Credit Impaired Loans

The Company acquired certain loans and designated them as PCI loans, which are accounted for under FASB 

ASC 310-30. No loans acquired in the Premier and Puget Mergers were considered PCI.

100

 
 
The following table reflects the outstanding principal balance and recorded investment of the PCI loans at 

December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential
Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial

properties

Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Gross PCI loans

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Outstanding
Principal

Recorded
Investment

Outstanding
Principal

Recorded
Investment

(In thousands)

$

6,319 $
7,830

3,433 $
7,215

8,685
22,834
3,169

67

188

255
2,203

7,059
17,707
3,315

380

43

423

3,462

8,818 $

12,230

14,295
35,343
4,120

841

2,361

3,202

3,974

2,912
11,515
13,342
27,769
5,255

89

2,035

2,124

5,455

$

28,461 $

24,907 $

46,639 $

40,603

On the acquisition dates, the amount by which the undiscounted expected cash flows of the PCI loans exceeded 
the estimated fair value of the loan is the “accretable yield.” The accretable yield is then measured at each financial 
reporting date and represents the difference between the remaining undiscounted expected cash flows and the current 
carrying value of the PCI loans.

The following table summarizes the accretable yield on the PCI loans for the years ended December 31, 2018, 

2017 and 2016.

Balance at the beginning of the year

Accretion

Disposal and other

Reclassification from (to) nonaccreatable difference

Balance at the end of the year

(i) Related Party Loans

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017
(In thousands)

2016

$

$

11,224 $
(2,674)

(2,871)

3,814

13,860 $

(3,471)

(2,758)

3,593

9,493 $

11,224 $

17,592

(4,962)

(3,329)

4,559

13,860

In the ordinary course of business, the Company has granted loans to certain directors, executive officers and 

their affiliates (collectively referred to as “related parties”).

101

 
 
Activity in related party loans for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was as follows:

Balance outstanding at the beginning of year

Elimination of outstanding loan balance due to

change in related party status

Principal additions
Principal reductions

Balance outstanding at the end of year

$

$

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(in thousands)

8,460 $

19,917 $

20,775

—
211
(304)
8,367 $

(10,930)
—
(527)
8,460 $

—
738
(1,596)
19,917

The Company had $592,000 and $750,000 of unfunded commitments to related parties as of December 31, 
2018 and 2017, respectively. The Company did not have any borrowings from related parties at December 31, 2018
or 2017.

(j) Mortgage Banking Activities

The Bank originates one-to-four family residential loans. A portion of these loans are sold on the secondary 
market. The Bank does not retain servicing on loans sold in the secondary market. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, 
the balance of loans held for sale was $1.6 million and $2.3 million, respectively. 

The following table presents information concerning the origination and sale of the Bank's one-to-four family 

residential loans and the gains from the sale of loans as a result of the Bank's mortgage banking activities:

One-to-four family residential loans:

Originated (1)
Sold

Gain on sale of loans, net (2)

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

121,998 $

76,834
2,403

144,066 $
113,786
3,412

178,169
141,127

3,723

(1)  Includes loans originated for sale in the secondary market or for the Bank's loan portfolio.
(2)   Excludes net gains on sales of SBA and other loans.

The Bank may additionally make commitments to fund one-to-four family residential loans (interest rate locks) 
to be sold into the secondary market. The contractual amounts of commitments to sell and fund with off-balance sheet 
risk at December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:

Commitments to sell mortgage loans

Commitments to fund mortgage loans (at interest rates approximating

market rates) for portfolio or for sale:

Fixed rate
Variable or adjustable rate

Total commitments to fund mortgage loans

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

$

$

$

(In thousands)
3,910 $

10,140

6,593 $
1,008
7,601 $

10,894
56
10,950

The fair values of freestanding derivatives related to the commitments to fund mortgage loans and sell at 

locked interest rates were not significant at December 31, 2018 or 2017.

102

 
 
 
 
 
(k) SBA Loan Sales

The Company may choose to sell the conditionally guaranteed portion of certain loans guaranteed by the 
Small Business Administration or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (collectively referred to as "SBA loans") and retain 
a participating interest in the unguaranteed portion of the loans and the servicing of the loans. The retained unguaranteed 
portions of these loans are carried at cost net of discounts related to accounting for the sold and retained portions of 
the loans using the allocation of their carrying amounts based on their relative fair values. The Company does not sell 
SBA loans with servicing retained unless it retains a participating interest. Details of certain SBA loans serviced are 
as follows:

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

SBA loans serviced for others with participating interest, gross loan

balance

$

54,335 $

SBA loans serviced for others with participating interest, participation 

balance owned by Bank (1) 

12,715

53,809

12,394

(1) Included in the balances of total loans receivable, net on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial 

Condition.

The Company recognized $506,000, $467,000 and $460,000 of servicing fee income and fees from SBA loans 
serviced for others for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Servicing fee income is 
reported in other income on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income.

(5) 

Allowance for Loan Losses 

The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level deemed appropriate by management to provide for 

probable incurred credit losses in the loan portfolio. 

A summary of the changes in the allowance for loan losses during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017

and 2016 is as follows:

Balance at the beginning of the year

Charge-offs
Recoveries of loans previously charged-off
Provision for loan losses

Balance at the end of the year

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017
(In thousands)

2016

$

$

32,086 $
(3,605)
1,432
5,129

35,042 $

31,083 $
(4,838)
1,621
4,220

32,086 $

29,746
(6,085)
2,491
4,931
31,083

103

 
 
 
The following table details the activity in the allowance for loan losses disaggregated by segment and class 

for the year ended December 31, 2018:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Owner-occupied commercial real

estate

Non-owner occupied commercial

real estate
Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential
Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and

commercial properties
Total real estate construction

and land development

Consumer

Unallocated

Total

Balance at
Beginning of
Year

Charge-offs

Recoveries
(In thousands)

Provision for
Loan Losses

Balance at
End of Year

$

9,910 $

(1,250) $

901 $

1,782 $

11,343

3,992

8,097
21,999

1,056

862

1,190

2,052

6,081

898
32,086 $

$

(1)

(149)
(1,400)

(45)

—

—

—

(2,160)

—

7

—
908

—

11

—

11

513

—

900

4,898

(478)
2,204

192

367

(236)

131

2,147

455

7,470
23,711
1,203

1,240

954

2,194

6,581

1,353

(3,605) $

1,432 $

5,129 $

35,042

The  following  table  details  the  allowance  for  loan  losses  disaggregated  on  the  basis  of  the  Company's 

impairment method as of December 31, 2018:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial

properties
Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Unallocated
Total

Loans
Individually
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Loans
Collectively
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Total
Allowance
for Loan
Losses

PCI Loans

(In thousands)

$

2,607 $
1,142

7,913 $
3,063

206

3,955

76

—

—

—

139

—

6,630

17,606

1,015

1,040

875

1,915

5,965

1,353

$

823
693

634

2,150

112

200

79

279

477

—

11,343
4,898

7,470

23,711

1,203

1,240

954

2,194

6,581

1,353

$

4,170 $

27,854 $

3,018

$

35,042

104

 
The following table details the recorded investment balance of the loan receivables disaggregated on the basis 

of the Company’s impairment method as of December 31, 2018:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

Loans
Individually
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Loans
Collectively
Evaluated
for
Impairment

PCI Loans

Total Gross
Loans
Receivable

(In thousands)

$

22,642 $

827,531 $

3,433

$

853,606

5,816

6,276

766,783

1,291,128

7,215

7,059

779,814

1,304,463

34,734

2,885,442

17,707

2,937,883

279

98,169

3,315

101,763

One-to-four family residential

899

101,451

380

102,730

Five or more family residential and commercial

properties
Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Total

—

112,687

43

112,730

899

527

214,138

391,556

423

3,462

215,460

395,545

$

36,439 $ 3,589,305 $

24,907

$ 3,650,651

The following table details the activity in the allowance for loan losses disaggregated by segment and class 

for the year ended December 31, 2017:

Balance at
Beginning of
Year

Charge-offs

Recoveries

(In thousands)

Provision for
Loan Losses

Balance at
End of Year

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

10,968 $

(859) $

792 $

(991) $

9,910

Owner-occupied commercial real

estate

Non-owner occupied commercial

real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and

commercial properties
Total real estate construction

and land development

Consumer

Unallocated

Total

155

—

947

2

202

—

202

470

—

1,755

344

1,108

69

419

(169)

250

2,401

392

3,992

8,097

21,999

1,056

862

1,190

2,052

6,081

898

(4,838) $

1,621 $

4,220 $

32,086

3,661

(1,579)

—

(2,438)

(30)

(556)

—

(556)
(1,814)

—

7,753

22,382

1,015

797

1,359

2,156

5,024

506
31,083 $

$

105

The  following  table  details  the  allowance  for  loan  losses  disaggregated  on  the  basis  of  the  Company's 

impairment method as of December 31, 2017: 

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial

properties
Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Unallocated

Total

Loans
Individually
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Loans
Collectively
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Total
Allowance
for Loan
Losses

PCI Loans

(In thousands)

$

1,326 $

7,558 $

1,026

$

621

1,222

3,169

93

2

37

39

54

—

2,557

5,919

16,034

798

635

1,064

1,699

5,303

898

814

956

2,796

165

225

89

314

724

—

9,910

3,992

8,097

21,999

1,056

862

1,190

2,052

6,081

898

$

3,355 $

24,732 $

3,999

$

32,086

The following table details the recorded investment balance of the loan receivables disaggregated on the basis 

of the Company’s impairment method as of December 31, 2017:

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

Loans
Individually
Evaluated
for
Impairment

Loans
Collectively
Evaluated
for
Impairment

PCI Loans

Total Gross
Loans
Receivable

(In thousands)

$

11,999 $

630,485 $

2,912 $

645,396

6,808

16,019

34,826

299

603,827

957,233

2,191,545

81,443

11,515

13,342

27,769

5,255

622,150

986,594

2,254,140

86,997

One-to-four family residential

1,247

50,649

89

51,985

Five or more family residential and commercial

properties
Total real estate construction and land

development

Consumer

Total

645

94,819

2,035

97,499

1,892

442

145,468

349,194

2,124

5,455

149,484

355,091

$

37,459 $ 2,767,650 $

40,603 $ 2,845,712

106

 
 
The following table details the activity in the allowance for loan losses disaggregated by segment and class 

for the year ended December 31, 2016:

Balance at
Beginning of
Year

Charge-offs

Recoveries
(In thousands)

Provision for
Loan Losses

Balance at
End of Year

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

$

9,972 $

(3,265) $

1,844 $

2,417 $

10,968

Owner-occupied commercial real

estate

Non-owner occupied commercial

real estate
Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential
Real estate construction and land

development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and

commercial properties
Total real estate construction

and land development

Consumer

Unallocated

Total

4,370

(538)

—

(171)

3,661

7,722
22,064
1,157

1,058

813

1,871

4,309

345
29,746 $

$

(350)
(4,153)
—

(100)

(54)

(154)
(1,778)

—

—
1,844
2

83

—

83

562

—

381
2,627
(144)

(244)

600

356

1,931

161

7,753
22,382
1,015

797

1,359

2,156

5,024

506

(6,085) $

2,491 $

4,931 $

31,083

(6) 

Other Real Estate Owned

Changes in other real estate owned during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were as 

follows:

Balance at the beginning of the year

Additions

Additions from acquisitions

Proceeds from dispositions

Gain on sale, net

Valuation adjustment

Balance at the end of the year

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands

$

— $

754 $

434

1,796

(198)

—

(49)

32

—

(930)

144

—

$

1,983 $

— $

2,019

1,431

—

(2,486)

173

(383)

754

At December 31, 2018, the carrying amount of other real estate owned that was the result of foreclosure and 
obtaining physical possession of residential real estate properties was $434,000. At December 31, 2018, there were  
no consumer mortgage loans secured by residential real estate properties (which would be included in the one-to-four 
family residential loans in Note (4) Loans Receivable) for which formal foreclosure proceedings were in process.

107

 
(7) 

Premises and Equipment

A summary of premises and equipment is as follows:

Land

Buildings and building improvements

Furniture, fixtures and equipment

Total premises and equipment

Less: Accumulated depreciation

Premises and equipment, net

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

$

$

(In thousands)
22,954 $

69,315

25,354

117,623

36,523

81,100 $

21,483

50,984

20,894

93,361

33,036

60,325

Total depreciation expense on premises and equipment was $4.4 million, $3.9 million and $3.9 million for the 

years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(8) 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

(a) Goodwill

The Company’s goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired 
in the recent Premier Merger on July 2, 2018 and Puget Sound Merger on January 16, 2018 and the historical acquisitions 
of  Washington  Banking  Company  on  May  1,  2014;  Valley  Community  Bancshares  on  July  15,  2013;  Western 
Washington Bancorp in 2006 and North Pacific Bank in 1998.

The following table presents the change in goodwill for the periods indicated:

Balance at the beginning of the period

Additions as a result of acquisitions (1) 

Balance at the end of the period

(1)  See Note (2) Business Combinations

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

$

119,029 $

119,029 $

119,029

121,910

—

—

240,939 $

119,029 $

119,029

At December 31, 2018, the Company’s step-one analysis concluded that the reporting unit’s fair value of the 
reporting unit exceeded the carrying value, such that the Company's goodwill was not considered impaired. Similarly, 
no goodwill impairment charges were required, or recorded, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. Even 
though there was no goodwill impairment at December 31, 2018, changes in the economic environment, operations 
of the reporting unit or other adverse events could result in future impairment charges which could have a material 
impact on the Company’s operating results.

(b) Other Intangible Assets

The other intangible assets represent the core deposit intangible ("CDI") acquired in business combinations. 
The useful life of the CDI was estimated to be ten years related to the acquisitions of Premier Commercial Bancorp, 
Puget Sound Bancorp, Washington Banking Company, and Valley Community Bancshares and estimated to be five
years related to the acquisition of Northwest Commercial Bank.

108

 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents the change in other intangible assets for the periods indicated:

Balance at the beginning of the year

Additions as a result of acquisitions (1)
Amortization

Balance at the end of the year

(1)  See Note (2) Business Combinations

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

6,088 $

7,374 $

18,345

(3,819)

—

(1,286)

20,614 $

6,088 $

$

$

8,789

—

(1,415)

7,374

The estimated aggregate amortization expense related to these intangible assets for future years is as follows:

2019

2020

2021
2022

2023

Thereafter

Year Ending December 31,
(In thousands)

$

$

4,001

3,525
3,111
2,750

2,435

4,792

20,614

(9) 

Deposits

Deposits consisted of the following: 

Noninterest demand deposits

Interest bearing demand deposits

Money market accounts

Savings accounts

Total non-maturity deposits

Certificate of deposit accounts

Total deposits

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Amount

Percent

Amount

Percent

(Dollars in thousands)

$

1,362,268

30.7% $

944,791

27.8%

1,317,513

765,316

520,413

3,965,510

466,892

29.7

17.3

11.8

89.5

10.5

1,051,752

499,618

498,501

2,994,662

398,398

31.1

14.7

14.7

88.3

11.7

$

4,432,402

100.0% $

3,393,060

100.0%

Accrued  interest  payable  on  deposits  was  $144,000  and  $124,000  as  of  December 31,  2018  and  2017, 
respectively and is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Financial 
Condition.

Interest expense, by category, was as follows:

Interest bearing demand deposits
Money market accounts
Savings accounts
Certificate of deposit accounts

2018

Year Ended December 31,
2017
(In thousands)

2016

$

$

2,728 $
1,654
2,056
3,959

10,397 $

1,812 $
682
1,311
2,244
6,049 $

1,569
749
756
1,936
5,010

109

 
 
 
 
Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit for future years are as follows:

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Thereafter

Year Ending December 31,

(In thousands)

$

$

313,830

93,675

14,608

24,914

19,847

18

466,892

Certificates of deposit issued in denominations equal to or in excess of $250,000 totaled $146.2 million and 

$113.7 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

(10) 

Junior Subordinated Debentures

As part of the acquisition of Washington Banking Company on May 1, 2014, the Company assumed trust 

preferred securities and junior subordinated debentures with a total fair value of $18.9 million at the merger date.

Washington Banking Master Trust, a Delaware statutory business trust, was a wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Washington Banking Company created for the exclusive purposes of issuing and selling capital securities and utilizing 
sale proceeds to acquire junior subordinated debentures issued by the Washington Banking Company. During 2007, 
the Trust issued $25.0 million of trust preferred securities with a 30-year maturity, callable after the fifth year. The trust 
preferred  securities  have  a  quarterly  adjustable  rate  based  upon  the  three-month  London  Interbank  Offered  Rate 
(“LIBOR”) plus 1.56%. On the merger date, the Company acquired the Trust, which retained the Washington Banking 
Master Trust name, and assumed the performance and observance of the covenants under the indenture related to 
the trust preferred securities.

The adjustable rate of the trust preferred securities at December 31, 2018 was 4.37%. The weighted average 

rate of the junior subordinated debentures was as follows for the indicated periods:

Weighted average rate (1) 

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

6.27%

5.11%

4.50%

(1) The weighted average rate includes the accretion of the discount established at the merger date which is 
amortized over the life of the trust preferred securities. 

The junior subordinated debentures are the sole assets of the Trust and payments under the junior subordinated 
debentures are the sole revenues of the Trust. At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the balance of the 
junior subordinated debentures, net of unaccreted discount, was $20.3 million and $20.0 million, respectively. All of 
the common securities of the Trust are owned by the Company. Heritage has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 
capital securities along with all obligations of the Trust under the trust agreements. For financial reporting purposes, 
the Company's investment in the Master Trust is accounted for under the equity method and is included in prepaid 
expenses and other assets on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. The junior subordinated 
debentures issued and guaranteed by the Company and held by the Master Trust are reflected as liabilities on the 
Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition.

(11) 

Repurchase Agreements

The Company utilizes repurchase agreements with one-day maturities as a supplement to funding sources. 
Repurchase  agreements  are  secured  by  pledged  investment  securities  available  for  sale.  Under  the  repurchase 
agreements, the Company is required to maintain an aggregate market value of securities pledged greater than the 
balance of the repurchase agreements. The Company is required to pledge additional securities to cover any declines 
below the balance of the repurchase agreements. For additional information on the total value of investment securities 
pledged for repurchase agreements see Note (3) Investment Securities.

110

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents the Company's repurchase agreement obligations by class of collateral pledged:

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored agencies
Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage 

obligations (1):
Residential

Commercial

Total repurchase agreements

$
(1) Issued and guaranteed by U.S. Government-sponsored agencies.

(12) 

(a) FHLB

Other Borrowings

$

(In thousands)
4,878 $

—

11,239

20,582

31,821

9,335

17,274

31,487 $

The Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") of Des Moines functions as a member-owned cooperative providing 
credit for member financial institutions. Advances are made pursuant to several different programs. Each credit program 
has its own interest rate and range of maturities. Limitations on the amount of advances are based on a percentage 
of the Bank's assets or on the FHLB’s assessment of the institution’s creditworthiness. At December 31, 2018, the 
Bank maintained a credit facility with the FHLB of Des Moines with available borrowing capacity of $921.7 million. The 
Bank had no FHLB advances outstanding at December 31, 2018. At December 31, 2017 there were short-term FHLB 
advances outstanding of $92.5 million with maturity dates within 30 days.

The following table sets forth the details of FHLB advances during and as of the years ended December 31, 

2018 and 2017:

FHLB Advances:
Average balance during the year

Maximum month-end balance during the year

Weighted average rate during the year

Weighted average rate at the end of year

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

$

$

33,913

154,500

$

$

1.98%

n/a

105,646

137,450

1.16%

1.56%

Advances from the FHLB are collateralized by a blanket pledge on FHLB stock owned by the Bank, deposits 
at  the  FHLB,  certain  one-to-four  single  family  residential  loans  or  other  assets,  investment  securities  which  are 
obligations  of  or  guaranteed  by  the  United  States  or  other  assets.  In  accordance  with  the  pledge  agreement,  the 
Company must maintain unencumbered collateral in an amount equal to varying percentages ranging from 100% to 
160% of outstanding advances depending on the type of collateral. 

(b) Federal Funds Purchased

The Bank maintains advance lines with Wells Fargo Bank, US Bank, The Independent Bankers Bank and 
Pacific Coast Bankers’ Bank to purchase federal funds of up to $90.0 million as of December 31, 2018. The lines 
generally mature annually or are reviewed annually. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, there were no federal funds 
purchased.

(c) Credit Facilities

The Bank maintains a credit facility with the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco with available borrowing 
capacity of $37.4 million as of December 31, 2018. There were no borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2018
or 2017. Any advances on the credit facility would have to be first secured by the Bank's investment securities or loans 
receivable.

(13) 

Employee Benefit Plans

(a) 401(k) Plan

The Company provides its eligible employees with a 401(k) plan called "Heritage Financial Corporation 401(k) 

Profit Sharing Plan and Trust" (the “Plan”). The Company funds certain Plan costs as incurred.

111

 
 
The  Plan  includes  the  Company’s  salary  savings  401(k)  plan  for  its  employees. All  employees  hired  may 
participate in the Plan the first of the month following thirty days of service. Participants may contribute a portion of 
their salary, which is matched by the Company at 50%, not to be greater than 3% of eligible compensation, up to 
certain Internal Revenue Service limits. A Roth feature was added to the plan in 2016. All participants are 100% vested 
in all accounts at all times. Employer matching contributions for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016
were $1.4 million, $1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively.

The profit sharing portion of the Plan is a defined contribution retirement plan. All profit sharing and discretionary 
contributions are completely discretionary. Participants are eligible for profit sharing contributions upon credit of 1,000 
hours of service during the plan year, the attainment of 18 years of age, and employment on the last day of the year. 
Employees are vested in profit sharing contributions in the same manner as employer matching contributions discussed 
above. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, the Company made no employer profit sharing 
contributions.

(b) Employment Agreements

The  Company  has  entered  into  contracts  with  certain  senior  officers  that  provide  benefits  under  certain 

conditions following termination without cause, and/or following a change in control of the Company.

(c) Deferred Compensation Plan

During 2012, the Company adopted a Deferred Compensation Plan, which provides its directors and select 
executive officers with the opportunity to defer current compensation. Under the Plan, participants are permitted to 
elect to defer compensation and the Company has the discretion to make additional contributions to the Plan on behalf 
of  any  participant  based  on  a  number  of  factors.  Compensation  expense  under  the  Deferred  Compensation  Plan 
totaled $810,000, $652,000 and $540,000 for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The 
Company’s contributions totaled $583,000, $453,000 and $521,000 for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017
and 2016, respectively. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the carrying value of the obligation related to the deferred 
compensation plans was $3.7 million and $2.8 million, respectively. 

(d) Split-Dollar Life Insurance Benefit Plan

In  conjunction  with  the  Washington  Banking  Merger,  the  Company  assumed  the  split-dollar  life  insurance 
benefit plan previously maintained by Washington Banking. Life insurance policies are maintained for current or former 
officers of the Bank or former Washington Banking officers that are subject to split-dollar life insurance agreements, 
which continue after the participant's employment and retirement. All participants are fully vested in their split-dollar 
life insurance benefits. The accrued benefit liability for the split-dollar life insurance agreements represents the present 
value of the future death benefits payable to the participants' beneficiaries. 

The split-dollar life insurance projected benefit obligation is included in accrued expenses and other liabilities 
on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the carrying 
value of the obligation was $268,000 and $250,000, respectively.

(e) Salary Continuation Plan

In conjunction with the Premier Merger, the Company assumed an unfunded deferred compensation plan for 
select former Premier Commercial executive officers, some of which are current Heritage officers. Under the Salary 
Continuation Plan, the Company will pay each participant, or their beneficiary, specified benefits over specified periods 
beginning with the individual's termination of service due to retirement subject to early termination provisions. A liability 
is accrued for the obligation under this plan. As of December 31, 2018, the carrying value of the obligation was $4.6 
million. The expense incurred for the Salary Continuation Plan was $184,000 during the year ended December 31, 
2018. There was no expense incurred for the Salary Continuation Plan during the years ended December 31, 2017 
and 2016.

(14) 

Commitments and Contingencies

(a) Lease Commitments

The Bank leases certain premises and equipment under operating leases. Rental expense of leased premises 
and equipment was $6.1 million, $3.8 million and $4.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, 
respectively, which is included in occupancy and equipment expense on the Company's Consolidated Statements of 
Income.

112

 
 
The estimated future minimum annual rental commitments under noncancelable leases having an original or 

remaining term of more than one year are as follows: 

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Thereafter

Year Ending December 31,

(In thousands)

$

$

4,766

4,251

2,477

1,704

1,568

1,788

16,554

The leases contain various provisions for increases in rental rates, based either on changes in the published 
Consumer Price Index or a predetermined escalation schedule. Substantially all of the leases provide the Company 
with the option to extend the lease term one or more times following expiration of the initial term. 

(b) Commitments to Extend Credit

In the ordinary course of business, the Company may enter into various types of transactions that include 
commitments to extend credit that are not included in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company applies 
the  same  credit  standards  to  these  commitments  as  it  uses  in  all  its  lending  activities  and  has  included  these 
commitments in its lending risk evaluations. The majority of the commitments presented below are variable rate. The 
Company’s exposure to credit and market risk under commitments to extend credit is represented by the amount of 
these commitments.

The following table presents outstanding commitments to extend credit, including letters of credit, at the dates 

indicated:

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial

Owner-occupied commercial real estate

Non-owner occupied commercial real estate

Total commercial business

One-to-four family residential

Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

Five or more family residential and commercial properties

Total real estate construction and land development

Consumer

$

568,215 $

13,065

13,621

594,901

—

59,772

95,535

155,307

239,822

Total outstanding commitments

$

990,030 $

363,272

6,815

13,543

383,630

—

38,160

86,787

124,947

204,625

713,202

(c) Variable Interests

The Company has two equity investments in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit partnerships ("LIHTCs") which 
are indirect federal subsidies that finance low-income housing projects. The Company reported the investments in the 
unconsolidated LIHTCs as prepaid expenses and other assets on the Company’s Statements of Financial Condition 
with carrying values of $50.9 million and $54.0 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. As a limited 
liability investor in these partnerships, the Company receives tax benefits in the form of tax deductions from partnership 
operating losses and federal income tax credits. The federal income tax credits are earned over a 10-year period as 
a result of the investment properties meeting certain criteria and are subject to recapture for noncompliance with such 
criteria over a 15-year period. The Company accounts for the LIHTCs under the proportional amortization method and 
amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes 
the net investment performance on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income as a component of income 

113

 
 
 
 
 
tax expense. During the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016 the Company recognized tax benefits of 
$2.4 million, $2.9 million and $640,000, respectively. See Note (21) Income Taxes for further information on tax benefits.

The maximum exposure to loss in the LIHTCs is the amount of equity invested and credit extended by the 
Company.  Loans  to  these  entities  are  underwritten  in  substantially  the  same  manner  as  are  other  loans  and  are 
generally secured. The Company has evaluated the variable interests held by the Company in each LIHTC investment 
and determined that the Company does not have controlling financial interests in such investments, and is not the 
primary beneficiary. 

Total unfunded contingent commitments related to the Company’s LIHTC investments totaled $31.5 million
and  $39.8  million at December 31,  2018  and  2017,  respectively,  and  is  reported  as  accrued  expenses  and  other 
liabilities on the Company's Statements of Financial Condition. The Company expects to fund LIHTC commitments of 
$26.4 million during the year ended December 31, 2019 and $523,000 during the year ended December 31, 2020, 
with the remaining commitments of $4.5 million paid by December 31, 2034. There were no impairment losses on the 
Company’s LIHTC investments during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 or 2016.

The Company also made a total of $25.0 million of Qualified Equity Investments ("QEIs") into three Certified 
Development Entities (“CDEs”) in May 2014 and is eligible to receive New Markets Tax Credits (“NMTC”) on the QEIs. 
The NMTC program provides federal tax incentives to investors to make investments in distressed communities and 
promotes  economic  improvements  through  the  development  of  successful  businesses  in  these  communities. The 
NMTC is available to investors over a seven-year period and is subject to recapture if certain events occur during such 
period. Gross tax credits related to the Company's CDEs totaling $9.8 million are available through 2020. The Company 
is required to fund 85 percent of a tranche to claim the entire tax credit, and it had until May 15, 2015 to complete the 
funding. The tranche was funded in 2015 before the deadline. 

The Company accounts for its NMTC on the equity method and reported the investment balance as prepaid 
expenses and other assets on the Company’s Statements of Financial Condition with carrying value of $25.7 million and 
$25.8 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. The Company recorded investment income 
of $708,000, $735,000 and $740,000 during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively, in 
other income on the Company's Statements of Income.

(15) 

Derivative Financial Instruments

The  Company  has  entered  into  certain  interest  rate  swap  contracts  that  are  not  designated  as  hedging 
instruments. The purpose of these derivative contracts is primarily to provide commercial business loan customers 
the ability to convert their loans from variable to fixed interest rates. Upon the origination of a derivative contract with 
a customer, the Company simultaneously enters into an offsetting derivative contract with a third party in order to offset 
its exposure on the variable and fixed rate components of the customer agreement. The Company recognizes immediate 
income based upon the difference in the bid/ask spread of the underlying transactions with its customers and the third 
party, which is recorded in interest rate swap fees on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Because the Company 
acts only as an intermediary for its customer, subsequent changes in the fair value of the underlying derivative contracts 
offset each other and do not significantly impact the Company’s results of operations.

The  notional  amounts  and  estimated  fair  values  of  interest  rate  derivative  contracts  outstanding  at 

December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 are presented in the following table:

Non-hedging interest rate derivatives

Interest rate swaps with customer (1) 
Interest rate swap with third party (1) 

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

Notional
Amounts

Estimated
Fair Value

Notional
Amounts

Estimated
Fair Value

(In thousands)

$

171,798 $

(1,643) $

146,537 $

171,798

1,643

146,537

(882)

882

(1) The  estimated  fair  value  of  the  derivative  included  in  prepaid  and  other  assets  on  the  Consolidated  Statements  of 
Financial Condition was $5.1 million and $3.4 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The estimated 
fair value of the derivative included in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial 
Condition was $5.1 million and $3.4 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

114

 
 
 
 
(16) 

Stockholders’ Equity

(a) Earnings Per Common Share

The following table illustrates the reconciliation of weighted average shares used for earnings per common 

share computations for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016:

Net income:

Net income

Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating

securities

Net income allocated to common shareholders

Basic:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

$

53,057 $

41,791 $

38,918

(321)

(293)

(358)

52,736 $

41,498 $

38,560

Weighted average common shares outstanding

Restricted stock awards

35,281,408

29,937,400

29,963,365

(87,405)

(179,581)

(285,063)

Total basic weighted average common shares outstanding

35,194,003

29,757,819

29,678,302

Diluted:

Basic weighted average common shares outstanding
Effect of potentially dilutive common shares(1)

35,194,003

29,757,819

29,678,302

177,587

91,512

13,851

Total diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
(1) Represents the effect of the assumed exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock awards and units.

29,849,331

35,371,590

29,692,153

Potential dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of earnings per share if their effect is anti-dilutive. 
For  the  years  ended  December 31,  2018  and  December 31,  2017,  there  were  no  anti-dilutive  shares  outstanding 
related to options to acquire common stock. For the year ended December 31, 2016, anti-dilutive shares outstanding 
related to options to acquire common stock totaled 436. Anti-dilution occurs when the exercise price of a stock option 
or the unrecognized compensation cost per share of a restricted stock award exceeds the market price of the Company’s 
stock.

(b) Dividends

The timing and amount of cash dividends paid on the Company's common stock depends on the Company’s 
earnings, capital requirements, financial condition and other relevant factors. Dividends on common stock from the 
Company depend substantially upon receipt of dividends from the Bank, which is the Company’s predominant source 
of income. 

115

The following table summarizes the dividend activity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016:

Cash Dividend per Share
$0.11

Record Date
February 10, 2016

May 5, 2016

August 4, 2016

Paid Date
February 24, 2016

May 19, 2016

August 18, 2016

Declared
January 27, 2016

April 20, 2016

July 20, 2016

October 26, 2016

October 26, 2016

January 25, 2017

April 25, 2017

July 25, 2017

October 25, 2017

October 25, 2017

January 24, 2018

April 25, 2018

July 24, 2018
October 24, 2018

October 24, 2018

$0.12

$0.12

$0.12

$0.25

$0.12

$0.13

$0.13

$0.13

$0.10

$0.15

$0.15

$0.15
$0.17

$0.10

November 8, 2016

November 22, 2016

November 8, 2016

November 22, 2016

*

February 9, 2017

February 23, 2017

May 10, 2017

May 24, 2017

August 10, 2017

August 24, 2017

November 8, 2017

November 22, 2017

November 8, 2017

November 22, 2017

*

February 7, 2018

February 21, 2018

May 10, 2018

May 24, 2018

August 9, 2018
November 7, 2018

August 23, 2018
November 21, 2018

November 7, 2018

November 21, 2018

*

* Denotes a special dividend.

The FDIC and the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Banks have the authority 
under their supervisory powers to prohibit the payment of dividends by the Bank to the Company. Additionally, current 
guidance from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System ("Federal Reserve") provides, among other 
things, that dividends per share on the Company’s common stock generally should not exceed earnings per share, 
measured over the previous four fiscal quarters. Current regulations allow the Company and the Bank to pay dividends 
on their common stock if the Company’s or the Bank’s regulatory capital would not be reduced below the statutory 
capital requirements set by the Federal Reserve and the FDIC.

(c) Stock Repurchase Program

The  Company  has  had  various  stock  repurchase  programs  since  March  1999.  On  October  23,  2014,  the 
Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 5% of the Company's outstanding common shares, 
or approximately 1,513,000 shares, under the eleventh stock repurchase plan. The number, timing and price of shares 
repurchased will depend on business and market conditions, and other factors, including opportunities to deploy the 
Company's capital.

Since the inception of the eleventh plan, the Company has repurchased 579,996 shares at an average share 
prices of $16.67. No shares were repurchased under this plan during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. 
During the year ended December 31, 2016, 138,000 shares were repurchased with an average share price of $17.16.

In addition to the stock repurchases under a plan, the Company repurchases shares to pay withholding taxes 
on the vesting of restricted  stock awards  and units. The following  table provides total repurchased  shares for the 
periods indicated:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

Repurchased shares to pay withholding taxes (1) 
Stock repurchase to pay withholding taxes average share price

53,256

29,429

$

31.99 $

25.01 $

29,512

17.82

(1) During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company repurchased 26,741 shares related to the withholding taxes 
due on the accelerated vesting of the restricted stock units of Puget Sound which were converted to Heritage common 
stock shares with a share price of $31.80 under the terms of the Puget Sound Merger. See Note (2) Business Combinations. 
There were no shares repurchased as a result of the accelerated vesting of the restricted stock awards related to the 
Premier Merger.

116

(d) Issuance of Common Stock

In conjunction with the Premier Merger effective on July 2, 2018 and the Puget Sound Merger effective on 
January 16, 2018, Heritage issued 2,848,579 and 4,112,258 shares, respectively, of the Company's common stock at 
the merger date share price of $34.85 and $31.80, respectively, for a fair value of $99.3 million and $130.8 million, 
respectively.

In addition, common stock was issued during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 related to 
the exercise of stock options and issuance of restricted stock awards as further described in Note (19) Stock-Based 
Compensation.

(17) 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

The changes in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (“AOCI”), all of which are due to changes in 
the fair value of available for sale securities and are net of tax, during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 
2016 are as follows:

Balance of AOCI at the beginning of the year

$

(1,298) $

(2,606) $

2,559

December 31,
2018

December 31,
2017

December 31,
2016

(In thousands)

Other comprehensive (loss) income before

reclassification

Amounts reclassified from AOCI for gain on sale of
investment securities included in net income

Net current period other comprehensive (loss)

income

ASU 2016-01 and 2018-02 Implementations

Balance of AOCI at the end of the year

(18) 

Fair Value Measurements

(5,956)

1,530

(4,311)

(108)

(6,064)

(93)

(4)

(854)

1,526

(218)

(5,165)

—

$

(7,455) $

(1,298) $

(2,606)

Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (exit price) in 
the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants 
on the measurement date. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair values:

Level 1: Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in active exchange markets, or interest in open-end mutual 
funds that allow the Company to sell its ownership interest back to the fund at net asset value on a daily basis. 
Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets, 
liabilities, or funds.

Level 2: Valuations for assets and liabilities traded in less active dealer or broker markets, such as quoted 
prices  for  similar  assets  or  liabilities,  quoted  prices  in  markets  that  are  not  active,  or  valuations  using 
methodologies with observable inputs.

Level 3: Valuations for assets and liabilities that are derived from other valuation methodologies, such as option 
pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques using unobservable inputs, and not based 
on market exchange, dealer, or broker traded transactions. Level 3 valuations incorporate certain assumptions 
and projections in determining the fair value assigned to such assets or liabilities.

(a) Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis

The Company used the following methods and significant assumptions to measure the fair value of certain 

assets on a recurring and nonrecurring basis:

Investment Securities Available for Sale:

The fair values of all investment securities are based upon the assumptions that market participants would 
use in pricing the security. If available, fair values of investment securities are determined by quoted market prices 
(Level 1). For investment securities where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are calculated based on 
market prices on similar securities (Level 2). For investment securities where quoted prices or market prices of similar 
securities are not available, fair values are calculated by using observable and unobservable inputs such as discounted 
cash flows or other market indicators (Level 3). Security valuations are obtained from third party pricing services for 
comparable assets or liabilities.

117

 
 
Impaired Loans:

At the time a loan is considered impaired, its impairment is measured based on either the present value of 
expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the observable market price, or the fair 
market value of the collateral (less costs to sell) if the loan is collateral-dependent. Impaired loans for which impairment 
is measured using the discounted cash flow approach are not considered to be measured at fair value because the 
loan’s effective interest rate is generally not a fair value input, and for the purposes of fair value disclosures, the fair 
value of these loans are measured commensurate with non-impaired loans. If the Company utilizes the fair market 
value of the collateral method, the fair value used to measure impairment is commonly based on recent real estate 
appraisals.  These  appraisals  may  utilize  a  single  valuation  approach  or  a  combination  of  approaches  including 
comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments are routinely made in the appraisal process by independent 
appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable sales and income data available. Such adjustments are 
usually significant and typically result in a Level 3 classification of the inputs for determining fair value. Non-real estate 
collateral may be valued using an appraisal, net book value based on the borrower’s financial statements, or aging 
reports, adjusted or discounted based on management’s historical knowledge, changes in market conditions from the 
time of the valuation and management’s expertise and knowledge of the client and client’s business (Level 3). Impaired 
loans are evaluated on a quarterly basis and impairment is adjusted accordingly.

Other Real Estate Owned:

Assets acquired through or instead of loan foreclosure are initially recorded at fair value less costs to sell when 
acquired, establishing a new cost basis. These assets are subsequently accounted for at lower of cost or fair value 
less costs to sell. Fair value is commonly based on recent real estate appraisals. These appraisals may utilize a single 
valuation approach or a combination of approaches including comparable sales and the income approach. Adjustments 
are routinely made in the appraisal process by independent appraisers to adjust for differences between the comparable 
sales and income data available. Such adjustments are usually significant and typically result in Level 3 classification 
of the inputs for determining fair value.

Appraisals for both collateral-dependent impaired loans and other real estate owned are performed by certified 
general  appraisers  for  commercial  properties  or  certified  residential  appraisers  for  residential  properties  whose 
qualifications and licenses have been reviewed and verified by the Company. Once received, the Company reviews 
the  assumptions  and  approaches  utilized  in  the  appraisal  as  well  as  the  resulting  fair  value  in  comparison  with 
independent data sources such as recent market data or industry-wide statistics. On a quarterly basis, the Company 
compares the actual selling price of collateral that has been liquidated to the most recent appraised value to determine 
what additional adjustment should be made to the appraisal value to arrive at fair value.

118

Derivative Financial Instruments:

The Company obtains broker or dealer quotes to value its interest rate derivative contracts, which use valuation 

models using observable market data as of the measurement date (Level 2).

Recurring Basis

The following tables summarize the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring 

basis as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

Assets
Investment securities available for sale:

U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored

agencies

Municipal securities

Mortgage backed securities and collateralized

mortgage obligations:

Residential

Commercial

Corporate obligations

Other asset-backed securities

Total investment securities available for

sale

Derivative assets - interest rate swaps

Liabilities
Derivative liabilities - interest rate swaps

December 31, 2018

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

(In thousands)

$

101,603 $

15,936 $

85,667 $

158,864

331,602

333,761
25,563

24,702

976,095
5,095

—

—

—

—

15,936

—

158,864

331,602

333,761

25,563

24,702

960,159

5,095

$

5,095 $

— $

5,095 $

December 31, 2017

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

(In thousands)

Assets
Investment securities available for sale:

U.S. Treasury and U.S. Government-sponsored

agencies

Municipal securities

Mortgage backed securities and collateralized

mortgage obligations:

Residential

Commercial

Collateralized loan obligations

Corporate obligations

Other securities

Total investment securities available for

sale

Derivative assets - interest rate swaps

Liabilities
Derivative liabilities - interest rate swaps

$

13,442 $

— $

13,442 $

250,015

280,211

217,079
4,580

16,770

28,433

810,530
3,418

—

—

—

—

—

146

146

—

250,015

280,211

217,079

4,580

16,770

28,287

810,384

3,418

$

3,418 $

— $

3,418 $

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

119

Nonrecurring Basis

The Company may be required to measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring 
basis. These adjustments to fair value usually result from application of lower-of-cost-or-market accounting or write-
downs of individual assets.

The tables below represent assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis at December 31, 2018 and 

December 31, 2017 and the net losses recorded in earnings during years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

Fair Value at December 31, 2018

Basis(1)

Total

Level 1

Level 2
(In thousands)

Level 3

Net Losses
Recorded in
Earnings 
During
the Year Ended 
December 31, 
2018

Impaired loans:
Commercial business:

Commercial and industrial
Non-owner occupied commercial real

estate

Total commercial business

Consumer

$ 117 $ 107 $ — $ — $ 107 $

1,378

1,495
9

1,102

1,209
7

—

—
—

— 1,102

— 1,209
7
—

Total assets measured at fair value

on a nonrecurring basis

$ 1,504 $ 1,216 $ — $ — $ 1,216 $

(1) Basis represents the unpaid principal balance of impaired loans.

10

150

160
8

168

Fair Value at December 31, 2017

Net Losses
(Gains)
Recorded in
Earnings 
During
the Year Ended 
December 31, 
2017

Basis(1)

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

(In thousands)

Impaired loans:
Real estate construction and land development:

One-to-four family residential

$ 976 $ 307 $ — $ — $ 307 $

Total assets measured at fair value

on a nonrecurring basis

$ 976 $ 307 $ — $ — $ 307 $

(558)

(558)

(1) Basis represents the unpaid principal balance of impaired loans.

120

The  following  table  presents  quantitative  information  about  Level  3  fair  value  measurements  for  financial 

instruments measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

Impaired loans

Impaired loans

Fair
Value

Valuation
Technique(s)

$

1,216 Market approach

Fair
Value

Valuation
Technique(s)

$

307 Market approach

December 31, 2018

Unobservable Input(s)

(Dollars in thousands)

Adjustment for differences
between the comparable
sales

December 31, 2017

Unobservable Input(s)

(Dollars in thousands)

Adjustment for differences
between the comparable
sales

Range of Inputs; Weighted
Average

10.4% - (37.3%); (10.9%)

Range of Inputs; Weighted
Average

(91.5%) - (14.4%); (44.0%)

(b) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Because broadly traded markets do not exist for most of the Company’s financial instruments, the fair value 
calculations attempt to incorporate the effect of current market conditions at a specific time. These determinations are 
subjective in nature, involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and do not include tax ramifications; 
therefore, the results cannot be determined with precision, substantiated by comparison to independent markets and 
may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the instruments. There may be inherent weaknesses 
in any calculation technique, and changes in the underlying assumptions used, including discount rates and estimates 
of future cash flows, could significantly affect the results. For all of these reasons, the aggregation of the fair value 
calculations presented herein do not represent, and should not be construed to represent, the underlying value of the 
Company.

121

The  tables  below  present  the  carrying  value  amount  of  the  Company’s  financial  instruments  and  their 

corresponding estimated fair values at the dates indicated:

Carrying
Value

December 31, 2018

Fair Value Measurements Using:

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

(In thousands)

Financial Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents

Investment securities available for

sale

Federal Home Loan Bank stock
Loans held for sale
Total loans receivable, net

Accrued interest receivable

Derivative assets - interest rate swaps
Equity security

Financial Liabilities:

Noninterest deposits, interest
bearing demand deposits,
money market accounts and
savings accounts

Certificate of deposit accounts

Securities sold under agreement to

repurchase

Junior subordinated debentures

Accrued interest payable

Derivative liabilities - interest rate
swaps

—

—
N/A
—

3,614,348
11,244
—

—

—

—

—

20,500

47

—

$

161,910 $

161,910 $

161,910 $

— $

960,159
N/A
1,605

—
4,091

5,095

—

— $

470,222

—

—

81

5,095

976,095
6,076
1,555
3,619,118
15,403

5,095

114

976,095

15,936

N/A
1,605

3,614,348
15,403

5,095

114

N/A
—

—
68

—

114

$ 3,965,510 $ 3,965,510 $ 3,965,510 $
470,222

466,892

—

31,487

20,302

191

31,487

20,500

191

5,095

5,095

31,487

—

63

—

122

Financial Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents

Investment securities available for

sale

Federal Home Loan Bank stock

Loans held for sale

Total loans receivable, net

Accrued interest receivable

Derivative assets - interest rate

swaps

Financial Liabilities:

Noninterest deposits, interest
bearing demand deposits,
money market accounts and
savings accounts

Certificate of deposit accounts

Federal Home Loan Bank advances

Securities sold under agreement to

repurchase

Junior subordinated debentures

Accrued interest payable

Derivative liabilities - interest rate

swaps

December 31, 2017

Fair Value Measurements Using:

Carrying Value

Fair Value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

(In thousands)

$

103,015 $

103,015 $

103,015 $

— $

810,530

810,530

8,347

2,288

N/A
2,364

2,816,985

12,244

2,810,401
12,244

3,418

3,418

146

N/A

—

—

23

—

810,384

N/A

2,364

3,772

3,418

—

2,810,401

$

2,994,662 $ 2,994,662 $ 2,994,662 $

— $

398,398

92,500

31,821

20,009

162

397,039
92,500

31,821

18,500

162

3,418

3,418

—

—

397,039

92,500

31,821

—

45

—

—

—

79

3,418

—

—

N/A

—

8,449

—

—

—

—

—

18,500

38

—

(19) 

Stock-Based Compensation

On July 24, 2014, the Company's shareholders approved the Heritage Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus 
Equity Plan ("Equity Plan") that provides for the issuance of 1,500,000 shares of the Company's common stock in the 
form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards (which includes restricted stock units, restricted stock 
awards, performance units, performance shares or bonus shares) and cash incentive awards. The Company issues 
new shares of common stock to satisfy share option exercises and restricted stock awards. As of December 31, 2018, 
shares remain available for future issuance under the Equity Plan totaled 955,282.

(a) Stock Option Awards

Stock options generally vest ratably over three years and expire five years after they become exercisable or 
vest ratably over four years and expire ten years from date of grant. For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017
and 2016, the Company did not recognize any compensation expense or related tax benefit related to stock options 
as all of the compensation expense related to the outstanding stock options had been previously recognized. The 
intrinsic value from options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $202,000, 
$161,000 and $177,000, respectively. The cash proceeds from options exercised during the years ended December 
31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 were $132,000, $164,000 and $540,000, respectively.

123

 
The following table summarizes the stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 

2016:

Outstanding at December 31, 2015

Exercised

Forfeited or expired

Outstanding at December 31, 2016

Exercised

Forfeited or expired

Outstanding at December 31, 2017

Exercised

Forfeited or expired

Outstanding, vested and expected to vest and

exercisable at December 31, 2018

(b) Restricted Stock Awards

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (In years)

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value (In
thousands)

Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
14.19

Shares

79,408 $
(37,713)

(4,200)
37,495

(12,662)

(1,602)
23,231

(9,842)

(831)

14.31

16.80
13.77

12.97

13.76
14.21

13.45

14.77

12,558 $

14.77

1.39 $

188

Restricted stock awards granted generally have a four-year cliff vesting or four-year ratable vesting schedule. 
For the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 the Company recognized compensation expense related to 
restricted stock awards of $907,000, $1.4 million and $1.8 million, respectively, and a related tax benefit of $191,000, 
$488,000 and $644,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2018, the total unrecognized compensation expense related 
to  non-vested  restricted  stock  awards  was  $556,000  and  the  related  weighted  average  period  over  which  the 
compensation expense is expected to be recognized is approximately 0.88 years. The vesting date fair value of the 
restricted stock awards that vested during the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 was $2.2 million, $2.9 
million and $2.0 million, respectively.

The following table summarizes the restricted stock award activity for the years ended December 31, 2018, 

2017 and 2016:

Nonvested at December 31, 2015

Granted

Vested
Forfeited

Nonvested at December 31, 2016

Vested

Forfeited

Nonvested at December 31, 2017

Vested

Forfeited

Nonvested at December 31, 2018

(c) Restricted Stock Units

Shares

Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value
15.92

264,521 $

121,039
(112,516)
(11,748)

261,296

(113,479)

(10,418)

137,399

(67,877)

(3,489)

66,033 $

17.60
15.62

16.62

16.80

16.55

16.80

17.00

16.74

16.92

17.28

During 2017, the Company began issuing stock-settled restricted stock unit awards ("RSU") and performance-
based  stock-settled  restricted  stock  unit  awards  ("PRSU"),  collectively  called  "units".  RSUs  granted  vest  ratably 
over three years. PRSUs granted generally have a three-year cliff vesting schedule. Additionally, PRSU grants may 
be subject to performance-based vesting as well as other approved vesting conditions. The number of shares of actually 
delivered pursuant to the PRSUs depends on the performance of the Company's Total Shareholder Return and Return 
on Average Assets over the performance period in relation to the performance of the common stock of a predetermined 
peer group. The conditions of the grants allow for an actual payout ranging between no payout and 150% of target. 

124

 
 
The payout level is calculated based on actual performance achieved during the performance period compared to a 
defined peer group. The fair value of such PRSUs was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation and will be recognized 
over the subsequent three years. The Monte-Carlo simulation model uses the same input assumptions as the Black-
Scholes model; however, it also further incorporates into the fair value determination the possibility that the market 
condition may not be satisfied. Compensation costs related to these awards are recognized regardless of whether the 
market condition is satisfied, provided that the requisite service has been provided.

Expected volatilities in the model were estimated using a historical period consistent with the performance 
period of approximately three years. The risk-free interest rate was based on the United States Treasury rate for a 
term commensurate with the expected life of the grant. The Company used the following assumptions to estimate the 
fair value of PRSUs granted during February 2018 and 2017:

Shares issued

Expected Term in Years

Weighted-Average Risk Free Interest Rate

Expected Dividend Yield

Weighted-Average Fair Value

Correlation coefficient

Range of peer company volatilities

Range of peer company correlation coefficients

Heritage volatility

Heritage correlation coefficient

2018

2017

5,550

2.84

2.39%

—%

27.69

6,089

2.85

1.40%

—%

24.39

ABA NASDAQ
Community Bank Index

ABA NASDAQ
Community Bank Index

18.99% - 51.42%

28.16% - 94.29%

17.8% - 63.1%

8.24% - 89.79%

22.30%

76.44%

21.80%

75.93%

For the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company recognized compensation expense related 
to the units of $1.8 million and $712,000, respectively, and a related tax benefit of $387,000 and $249,000, respectively. 
As of December 31, 2018, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested units was $3.5 million 
and  the  related  weighted-average  period  over  which  the  compensation  expense  is  expected  to  be  recognized  is 
approximately 2.17 years. The vesting date fair value of the units that vested during the year ended December 31, 
2018 was $1.0 million. There were no PRSUs that vested during the years end December 31, 2018 and 2017.

The following table summarizes the unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017:

Nonvested at December 31, 2016

Granted

Forfeited

Nonvested at December 31, 2017

Granted

Vested

Forfeited

Nonvested at December 31, 2018

(20) 

Cash Requirement

Units

Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value
—

— $

92,356

(1,812)

90,544

125,633

(32,375)

(4,617)

179,185 $

25.31

25.35

25.31

30.62

25.44

27.82

28.94

The Company is required to maintain an average reserve balance with the Federal Reserve Bank or maintain 
such reserve balance in the form of cash. The required reserve balance at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 
2017 was $9.2 million and $60,000, respectively, and was met by holding cash and maintaining an average balance 
with the Federal Reserve Bank.

125

 
 
 
(21) 

 Income Taxes

Income tax expense is substantially due to Federal income taxes as the provision for the state of Oregon 
income taxes is insignificant. Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 consisted 
of the following:

Current tax expense

Deferred tax expense

Income tax expense

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

9,658 $

12,171 $

1,372

6,185

11,030 $

18,356 $

$

$

6,885

6,918

13,803

A reconciliation of the Company's effective income tax rate with the Federal statutory income tax rate of 35%

for the years 2017 and 2016 and 21% for the year 2018 is as follows:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

Income tax expense at Federal statutory rate

$

13,502 $

21,051 $

Tax-exempt instruments

Non-deductible acquisition costs
Federal tax credits and other benefits (1)
Effects of BOLI
Revaluation of net deferred tax assets

Other, net

Income tax expense

(1,879)

336

(515)

(330)

(84)

(3,212)

210

(1,510)

(531)
2,568

(220)

18,452

(3,198)

—

(931)
(511)
—

(9)

$

11,030 $

18,356 $

13,803

(1)  Federal tax credits are provided for under the NMTC program and LIHTC programs as described in Note (14) 
Commitments and Contingencies. Tax benefits related to these credits were recognized for financial reporting 
purposes in the same period that the credits were recognized in the Company's income tax returns. Other benefits 
include the proportional amortization of the LIHTC of $3.1 million, $2.2 million and $523,000, for the years ended 
December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. Government enacted comprehensive tax legislation commonly referred to 
as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). The Tax Act amended the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates 
and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses. For businesses, the Tax Act reduced the 
corporate federal tax rate from a maximum of 35% to a flat 21% rate. The corporate tax rate reduction was effective 
January 1, 2018. The Tax Act required a revaluation the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities to account for 
the future impact of lower corporate tax rates and other provisions of the legislation. As a result of the Company's 
revaluation, the net deferred tax asset was reduced through an increase to the provision for income tax during the 
year ended December 31, 2017.

126

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The  following  table  presents  major  components  of  the  deferred  income  tax  asset  (liability)  resulting  from 

differences between financial reporting and tax basis:

December 31,
2018

December 31,
2017

(In thousands)

Deferred tax assets:

Allowance for loan losses

Accrued compensation

Stock compensation

Net unrealized losses charged to other comprehensive income on

securities

Market discount on purchased loans

Foregone interest on nonaccrual loans

Net operating loss carryforward acquired from NCB

Other Real Estate Owned

Other deferred tax assets

Total deferred tax assets

Deferred tax liabilities:

Deferred loan fees, net

Premises and equipment

FHLB stock

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Federal tax credits
Junior subordinated debentures

Other deferred tax liabilities

Total deferred tax liabilities

$

6,941 $

3,379

769

2,070

1,054

811

336

754

364
16,478

(3,333)

(1,819)

(569)

(3,526)

(1,457)

(1,176)

(540)

(12,420)

Deferred tax asset, net

$

4,058 $

6,699

1,779

660

347

539

471

270

—

763
11,528

(2,518)

(1,091)

(557)

(304)

(1,107)

(1,215)

(847)

(7,639)

3,889

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not 
that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. A valuation allowance is required to be recognized 
for the portion of the deferred tax asset that will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is 
dependent  upon  the  generation  of  future  taxable  income  during  the  periods  in  which  those  temporary  differences 
become deductible. As of December 31, 2018, based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for 
future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management expects to realize 
the benefits of these deductible differences.

The Company had a net operating loss carryforward of $1.6 million and $1.3 million at December 31, 2018 
and 2017, respectively, that will begin to expire in 2024. The Company is limited to the amount of the net operating 
loss carryforward that it can deduct each year. A tax planning strategy has been developed that management believes 
will enable the Company to deduct all of the net operating loss carryforwards prior to the expiration date. Based on 
these estimates, management has not recorded a valuation allowance as of December 31, 2018 and 2017.

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had an insignificant amount of unrecognized tax benefits, 
none of which would materially affect its effective tax rate if recognized. The Company does not anticipate that the 
amount of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly increase or decrease in the next 12 months. The amount of 
interest and penalties accrued as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 and for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017
and 2016 were immaterial. 

The Company has qualified under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code to compute income taxes after 
deductions of additions to the bad debt reserves when it was registered as a Savings Bank. At December 31, 2018, 
the Company had a taxable temporary difference of approximately $2.8 million that arose before 1988 (base-year 
amount). In accordance with FASB ASC 740, a deferred tax liability of an estimated $980,000 has not been recognized 
for the temporary difference. Management does not expect this temporary difference to reverse in the foreseeable 
future.

127

 
 
The Company and its subsidiary file a United States consolidated federal income tax return and an Oregon 
State income tax return, and the tax years subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service are the years ended 
December 31, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015. 

(22) 

Regulatory Capital Requirements

The Company is a bank holding company under the supervision of the Federal Reserve Bank. Bank holding 
companies are subject to capital adequacy requirements of the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company 
Act of 1956, as amended, and the regulations of the Federal Reserve. Heritage Bank is a federally insured institution 
and thereby is subject to the capital requirements established by the FDIC. The Federal Reserve capital requirements 
generally parallel the FDIC requirements. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, 
and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on 
the Company’s consolidated financial statements and operations. Management believes as of December 31, 2018, 
the Company and the Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject.

As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the most recent regulatory notifications categorized the 
Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. There are no conditions or events 
since that notification that management believes have changed the Bank's categories.

128

 
 
Minimum
Requirements

Well-
Capitalized
Requirements

Actual

$

%

$

%

$

%

(Dollars in thousands)

As of December 31, 2018:
The Company consolidated

Common equity Tier 1 capital to

risk-weighted assets

Tier 1 leverage capital to

average assets

Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted

assets

Total capital to risk-weighted

assets

Heritage Bank

Common equity Tier 1 capital to

risk-weighted assets

Tier 1 leverage capital to

average assets

Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted

assets

Total capital to risk-weighted

assets

As of December 31, 2017:
The Company consolidated

Common equity Tier 1 capital to

risk-weighted assets

Tier 1 leverage capital to

average assets

Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted

assets

Total capital to risk-weighted

assets

Heritage Bank

Common equity Tier 1 capital to

risk-weighted assets

Tier 1 leverage capital to

average assets

Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted

assets

Total capital to risk-weighted

assets

$ 197,189

4.5%

201,920

262,918

350,558

197,004

203,339

262,671

350,229

4.0

6.0

8.0

4.5

4.0

6.0

8.0

$ 154,522

4.5%

159,494

206,029

274,706

154,400

159,300

205,867

274,490

4.0

6.0

8.0

4.5

4.0

6.0

8.0

N/A $ 510,618

11.7%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

530,920

N/A

530,920

N/A

566,268

284,561

254,174

350,229

6.5

5.0

8.0

513,993

513,993

513,993

437,786

10.0

549,341

10.5

12.1

12.9

11.7

10.1

11.7

12.5

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A $ 386,689

11.3%

N/A

406,687

N/A

406,687

N/A

439,044

10.2

11.8

12.8

391,092

11.4

223,023

199,125

274,490

6.5

5.0

8.0

391,092

391,092

343,112

10.0

423,348

9.8

11.4

12.3

The Company is subject to capital adequacy requirements of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, 
commonly called Basel III. Under the capital requirements both the Company and the Bank are required to have a 
common equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5%. In addition, both the Company and the Bank are required to have a Tier 1 
leverage ratio of 4.0%, a Tier 1 risk-based ratio of 6.0% and a total risk-based ratio of 8.0%. Both the Company and 
the Bank are required to establish a “conservation buffer”, consisting of common equity Tier 1 capital of more than 
2.5% above the minimum risk-based capital ratios. The capital conservation buffer is designed to ensure that banks 
build up capital buffers outside periods of stress which can be drawn down as losses are incurred. An institution that 
does not meet the conservation buffer will be subject to restrictions on certain activities including payment of dividends, 
stock repurchases and discretionary bonuses to executive officers. The capital conservation buffer requirement began 
to be phased-in on January 1, 2016 when more than 0.625% of risk-weighted assets was required, and increases by 
0.625% on each subsequent January 1, until it is fully phased-in on January 1, 2019. Certain calculations under the 

129

 
 
 
 
rules will also have phase-in periods. At December 31, 2018, the capital conservation buffer was 4.92% and 4.55%
for the Company and the Bank, respectively. 

(23) 

Heritage Financial Corporation (Parent Company Only)

Following is the condensed financial statements of the Parent Company.

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
Condensed Statements of Financial Condition

ASSETS
Cash and interest earning deposits

Investment in subsidiary bank

Other assets

Total assets

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Junior subordinated debentures

Other liabilities

Total stockholders’ equity

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

December 31, 2018

December 31, 2017

(In thousands)

$

$

$

$

14,602 $

764,097

2,520

781,219 $

20,302 $

194

760,723

781,219 $

11,904

512,655

4,696

529,255

20,009

941

508,305

529,255

130

  
 
 
 
HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
Condensed Statements of Income

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

INTEREST INCOME:

Interest and dividends on interest earning deposits and

other assets

Total interest income

INTEREST EXPENSE:

Junior subordinated debentures

Total interest expense

Net interest expense

NONINTEREST INCOME:

Dividends from subsidiary bank

Equity in undistributed income of subsidiary bank

Other income

Total noninterest income

NONONTEREST EXPENSE:

Professional services

Other expense

Total noninterest expense

Income before income taxes

Income tax benefit

$

7 $

7

44 $

44

1,263

1,263

(1,256)

30,000

29,258

22

59,280

3,063

3,833

6,896

51,128

(1,929)

1,014

1,014

(970)

23,000

21,755

—

44,755

768

3,726

4,494

39,291

(2,500)

Net income

$

53,057 $

41,791 $

34

34

880

880

(846)

30,000

11,848

—

41,848

385

3,437

3,822

37,180

(1,738)

38,918

131

 
 
 
 
HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided

by operating activities:

Year Ended December 31,

2018

2017

2016

(In thousands)

$

53,057 $

41,791 $

38,918

Equity in undistributed income of subsidiary bank

(29,258)

(21,755)

(11,848)

Net excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options

and vesting of restricted stock

Stock-based compensation expense

Net change in other assets and liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities:
Net cash received from acquisitions

Net cash provided by investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities:
Common stock cash dividends paid

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

Net excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options and

vesting of restricted stock

Repurchase of common stock

Net cash used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year

—

2,744

1,735

28,278

1,782

1,782

(25,791)

133

—

(1,704)

(27,362)

2,698

11,904

—

2,103

(1,925)

20,214

—

—

(18,305)

164

—

(737)

(18,878)

1,336

10,568

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year

$

14,602 $

11,904 $

(123)

1,840

(1,141)

27,646

—

—

(21,569)

540

123

(2,894)

(23,800)

3,846

6,722

10,568

Supplemental non-cash disclosures of cash flow
information:

Common stock issued for business combinations

$

230,043 $

— $

Capital contribution of net assets acquired in business

combinations to Bank

228,261

—

—

—

132

 
 
 
 
(24) 

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

Results of operations on a quarterly basis were as follows:

Year Ended December 31, 2018

First
  Quarter  

Second
  Quarter  

Third
  Quarter  

Fourth
  Quarter  

Interest income

Interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for loan losses

Net interest income after provision for loan

losses

Noninterest income

Noninterest expense

Income before provision for income taxes

Income tax expense

Net income

Basic earnings per common share

Diluted earnings per common share

Cash dividends declared on common stock

Interest income

Interest expense

Net interest income

Provision for loan losses

Net interest income after provision for loan

losses

Noninterest income

Noninterest expense

Income before provision for income taxes

Income tax expense

Net income

Basic earnings per common share

Diluted earnings per common share

Cash dividends declared on common stock

$

$

$

$

$
$

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
43,247 $

54,576 $

46,671 $

2,410

40,837

1,152

39,685

7,548

36,747

10,486

1,399
9,087 $
0.27 $

0.27

0.15

2,928

43,743

1,750

41,993

7,573

35,706

13,860

2,003

3,480

51,096

1,065

50,031

8,080

39,597

18,514

3,010

11,857 $

15,504 $

0.35 $

0.42 $

0.35

0.15

0.42

0.15

54,865

3,595

51,270

1,162

50,108

8,464

37,345

21,227

4,618

16,609

0.45

0.45

0.27

Year Ended December 31, 2017

First
  Quarter  

Second
  Quarter  

Third
  Quarter  

Fourth
  Quarter  

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
34,849 $

37,275 $

36,041 $

1,717

33,132

867

32,265

7,363

27,223

12,405

3,089
9,316 $
0.31 $

0.31

0.12

1,907

34,134

1,131

33,003

10,709

27,809

15,903

4,075

2,333

34,942

884

34,058

8,443

27,955

14,546

3,922

11,828 $
0.40 $

10,624 $

0.35 $

0.40

0.13

0.35

0.13

39,544

2,389

37,155

1,338

35,817

9,064

27,588

17,293

7,270
10,023

0.33

0.33

0.23

ITEM 9.  
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 

None 

133

 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9A.  

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information the Company must disclose 
in  its  reports  filed  or  submitted  under  the  Securities  Exchange Act  of  1934,  as  amended  (the  “Exchange Act”),  is 
recorded,  processed,  summarized,  and  reported  on  a  timely  basis. Our  management  has  evaluated,  with  the 
participation and under the supervision of our chief executive officer (“CEO”) and chief financial officer (“CFO”), the 
effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange 
Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded 
that, as of such date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information 
relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, required to be disclosed in reports that it files under 
the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s 
rules  and  forms,  and  (2) accumulated  and  communicated  to  our  management,  including  our  CEO  and  CFO,  as 
appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

(a) Management’s report on internal control over financial reporting

The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over 
financial  reporting. The  Company’s  internal  control  system  is  designed  to  provide  reasonable  assurance  to  our 
management  and  the  board  of  directors  regarding  the  preparation  and  fair  presentation  of  published  financial 
statements. Nonetheless, all internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Even 
systems determined to be effective as of a particular date can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to 
financial statement preparation and presentation and may not eliminate the need for restatements.

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial 
reporting  as  of  December 31,  2018.  In  making  this  assessment,  management  used  the  criteria  set  forth  by  the 
Committee  of  Sponsoring  Organizations  of  the  Treadway  Commission  in  the  2013  Internal  Control—Integrated 
Framework. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2018, the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting is effective based on these criteria.

As  permitted,  the  Company  excluded  from  its  assessment  the  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  the 
operations of Puget Sound Bancorp, Inc. and Premier Commercial Bancorp, which were acquired on January 16, 2018 
and July 2, 2018, respectively.

Crowe LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the effectiveness of our internal 
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2018, and their report is included in Item 8. Financial Statements 
And Supplementary Data.

(b) Attestation report of the registered public accounting firm.

See Item 8. Financial Statements And Supplementary Data.

(c) Changes in internal control over financial reporting.

There were no significant changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the fourth 
quarter of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to 
materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. 

OTHER INFORMATION

None

PART III

ITEM 10.  

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information concerning directors of the registrant is incorporated by reference to the section entitled “Proposal 
1 - Election of Directors” of our definitive proxy statement for the annual meeting of shareholders to be held on May 
1, 2019 (“Proxy Statement”).

For information regarding the executive officers of the Company, see Item 1. Business—Executive Officers.”

134

The required information with respect to compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act is incorporated 
by reference to the sections entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” and "Section 
16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" of the Proxy Statement.

The Company has adopted a written Code of Ethics that applies to our directors, officers and employees. The 

Code of Ethics can be accessed electronically by visiting the Company’s website at www.hf-wa.com.

The Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors retains our independent auditors, reviews and 
approves the scope and results of the audits with the auditors and management, monitors the adequacy of our system 
of  internal  controls  and  reviews  the  annual  report,  auditors’  fees  and  non-audit  services  to  be  provided  by  the 
independent auditors. The members of our Audit Committee are Deborah J. Gavin, chair of the committee, Brian S. 
Charneski, John A. Clees and Gragg E. Miller, all of whom are considered “independent” as defined by the SEC. Our 
Board of Directors has determined that Mrs. Gavin meets the definition of an audit committee financial expert, as 
determined by the requirements of the SEC.

ITEM 11.  

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Information concerning executive and director compensation and certain matters regarding participation in 
the Company’s Compensation Committee required by this item is incorporated by reference to the headings “Executive 
Compensation,”  “Director  Compensation,”  “Report  of  the  Compensation  Committee,”  and  "CEO  Pay  Ratio"  of  the 
Proxy Statement.

ITEM 12.  
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 

Information concerning security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management is incorporated by 
reference to the section entitled “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” of the Proxy 
Statement.

The following table summarizes the consolidated activity within the Company’s stock-based compensation 

plans as of December 31, 2018, all of which were approved by shareholders.

Number of
securities 
to be issued 
upon vesting 
of restricted 
stock awards

Number of
securities 
to be issued 
upon vesting 
of restricted 
stock units

Number of
securities
to be issued
upon 
exercise of 
outstanding
options

Weighted-
average
exercise
price of
outstanding
options

Number of
securities
remaining
available for
future 
issuance
under equity
compensation
plans

66,033

179,185

12,558

$14.77

955,282

Plan Category
Equity compensation plans, all of

which are approved by security
holders

ITEM 13.  

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIP AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Information  concerning  certain  relationships  and  related  transactions  is  incorporated  by  reference  to  the 
sections  entitled  “Meetings  and  Committees  of  the  Board  of  Directors"  and  "Corporate  Governance”  of  the  Proxy 
Statement.

Our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market. In accordance with NASDAQ requirements, 
at least a majority of our directors must be independent directors. The Board of Directors has determined that 9 of our 
10  directors  are  independent. Only  Brian  L.  Vance,  who  serves  as  Chief  Executive  Officer  of  Heritage  Financial 
Corporation, is not independent.

ITEM 14.  

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

Information  concerning  principal  accounting  fees  and  services  is  incorporated  by  reference  to  the  section 
entitled “Proposal 3 - Ratification of the Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Proxy 
Statement.

135

ITEM 15.  

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES 

(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:

PART IV

(1) Financial Statements: The Consolidated Financial Statements are included in Part II. Item 8. Financial 
Statements And Supplementary Data.

(2) Financial Statements Schedules: All schedules are omitted because they are not required or applicable, 
or the required information is shown in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes.

(3) Exhibits: Included in schedule below.

Exhibit
No.

Description of Exhibit

Incorporated by Reference

Filing
Date/
Period
End Date

Form Exhibit

2.1 Agreement and Plan of Merger with Puget Sound Bancorp, Inc

8-K

2.1

7/27/17

2.2 Agreement and Plan of Merger with Premier Commercial Bancorp, 

Inc

3.1 Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation

3.2 Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company

4.1

Form of Certificate of Heritage's Common Stock (3)

10.1 Annual Incentive Compensation Plan

10.2

2010 Omnibus Equity Plan

10.3 Amended 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

10.4

2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

8-K

8-K

2.1

3/9/2018

3.1(B)

5/18/10

3.2

10/3/16

S-1/A

-

10/29/97

10-K

10.5

3/9/17

S-8

8-K

DEF
14A

-

5/27/10

99.2

2/1/17

-

6/11/14

10.5

10.6

10.7

10.8

10.9

10.10

10.11

10.12

10.13

Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement under the 
Heritage Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.6

2/1/17

Form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award Agreement under the 
Heritage Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

10-Q

10.8

8/8/14

Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.7

2/1/17

Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

10-Q

10.9

8/8/14

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.4

2/1/17

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

10-Q

10.10

8/8/14

Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement 
under the Heritage Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.3

2/1/17

Form of Cash Incentive Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.8

2/1/17

Form of Incentive Stock Option Award Agreement under the Heritage 
Financial Corporation 2014 Omnibus Equity Plan

8-K

99.5

2/1/17

136

10.14 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement - 

Addendum by and between Heritage and Brian L. Vance

10.15 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement - 

Addendum by and between Heritage and Jeffrey J. Deuel

8-K

10.1

12/22/16

8-K

10.2

12/22/16

10.16 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement - 

Addendum by and between Heritage and Donald J. Hinson

8-K

10.3

12/22/16

10.17 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement by and 

between Heritage and Brian L. Vance

8-K

10.5

9/7/12

10.18 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement by and 

between Heritage and Jeffrey J. Deuel

8-K

10.6

9/7/12

10.19 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement by and 

between Heritage and Donald J. Hinson

8-K

10.20 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Brian L. Vance 8-K

10.7

10.1

9/7/12

9/7/12

10.21 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Jeffrey J. 

Deuel

10.22 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Donald J. 

Hinson

8-K

10.2

9/7/12

8-K

10.3

9/7/12

10.23 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement - 
Addendum by and between Heritage and David A. Spurling

8-K

10.5

12/22/16

10.24 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and David A. 

Spurling

8-K

10.1

1/6/14

10.25 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement by and 

between Heritage and David A. Spurling

8-K

10.2

1/6/14

10.26 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Bryan 

McDonald

S-4

1/24/14

10.27 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement - 
Addendum by and between Heritage and Bryan D. McDonald

8-K

10.4

12/22/16

10.28 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement by and 

between Heritage and Bryan D. McDonald

10-K

10.16

3/11/15

10.29

Form of Split Dollar Agreements, dated August 3, 2015, by and 
between Heritage and Brian L. Vance, Jeffrey J. Deuel, Donald J. 
Hinson, Bryan D. McDonald and David A. Spurling

10-Q

10.17

8/6/15

10.30 Deferred Compensation Plan and Participation Agreement Addendum 

by and between Heritage and David A. Spurling

8-K

10.1

12/22/15

10.31

Transitional Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and 
Brian L. Vance

8-K

10.1

7/10/18

10.32 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Jeffery J. 

Deuel

10.33 Employment Agreement by and between Heritage and Bryan 

McDonald

8-K

10.2

7/10/18

8-K

10.3

7/10/18

14.0 Code of Ethics and Conduct Policy (2)

21.0 Subsidiaries of the Company (1)

23.0 Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (1)

24.0 Power of Attorney (1)

31.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of 

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)

137

31.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of 

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)

32.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial 

Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (1)

101.INS XBRL Instance Document (1)

101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (1)

101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document (1)

101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document (1)

101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document (1)

101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document (1)

(1) Filed herewith.
(2) Registrant elects to satisfy Regulation S-K §229.406(c) by posting its Code of Ethics on its website at www.HF-

WA.com in the section titled Overview: Governance Documents.

(3) Exhibit not previously filed in electronic format.

ITEM 16.  

FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.

138

 
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has 

duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on March 1, 2019.

SIGNATURES

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
(Registrant)

/S/    BRIAN L. VANCE        

Brian L. Vance
Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by 

the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 1, 2019.

Principal Executive Officer:

/S/    BRIAN L. VANCE        

Brian L. Vance
Chief Executive Officer

Principal Financial Officer:

/S/    DONALD J. HINSON        

Donald J. Hinson
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

             Brian L. Vance, pursuant to a power of attorney that is being filed with the Annual Report on Form 10-K, has 
signed this report as attorney in fact for the following directors who constitute a majority of the Board.

Brian S. Charneski
John A. Clees
Kimberly T. Ellwanger
Deborah J. Gavin
Jeffrey S. Lyon
Gragg E. Miller
Anthony B. Pickering
Ann Watson
Stephen A. Dennis

By

/S/    BRIAN L. VANCE
Brian L. Vance
Attorney-in-Fact
March 1, 2019

139

 
 
[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Standing left to right: Jeffrey S. Lyon, Ann Watson, Brian L. Vance, Brian S. Charneski, Stephen A. Dennis,
Deborah J. Gavin, John A. Clees

Seated left to right: Anthony B. Pickering, Kimberly T. Ellwanger, Gragg E. Miller

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Brian S. Charneski
Chairman of the Board,
President, L&E Bottling Company

John A. Clees
Attorney, Worth Law Group

Stephen A. Dennis
Retired President and Chief Executive
Officer of Quadrant Homes

Kimberly T. Ellwanger
Retired Senior Director of Corporate
Affairs and Associate General Counsel,
Microsoft Corporation

Deborah J. Gavin
Retired Vice President of Finance and
Controller of The Boeing Company

Brian L. Vance
Chief Executive Officer,
Heritage Financial Corporation

Jeffrey S. Lyon
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
Kidder Mathews

Ann Watson
Chief Operating Officer,
Cascadia Capital, LLC

Gragg E. Miller
Retired Principal Managing Broker
of Coldwell Banker Bain

Anthony B. Pickering
Former Owner of Max Dale’s Restaurant
and Stanwood Grill

2018

ANNUAL REPORT

201 5th Avenue SW
Olympia, WA 98501
360.943.1500 | 800.455.6126

HERITAGE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
HERITAGE BANK

Brian L. Vance
Chief Executive Officer
Heritage Financial Corporation

Jeffrey J. Deuel
President & Chief Executive Officer
Heritage Bank

Bryan D. McDonald
Executive Vice President
Chief Operating Officer

Donald J. Hinson
Executive Vice President
Chief Financial Officer

David A. Spurling
Executive Vice President
Chief Credit Officer

Lisa Banner
Executive Vice President
Director of Shared Services

William K. Glasby
Executive Vice President
Chief Technology Officer

Thomas J. Henning
Executive Vice President
Chief Risk Officer

Cindy M. Huntley
Executive Vice President
Director of Retail Banking

Sabrina C. Robison
Senior Vice President
Chief Human Resources Officer

Kaylene M. Lahn
Senior Vice President
Corporate Secretary

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
The annual meeting will be held Wednesday,
May 1, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree
by Hilton, Olympia, WA.
All shareholders are invited to attend.

NASDAQ: HFWA | WWW.HF -WA.COM

TRANSFER AGENT
Computershare
250 Royall Street
Canton, MA 02021

Phone: 800.962.4284
www.computershare.com