Definition · Commercial Lending

What is CECL (current expected credit losses)?

CECL — current expected credit losses — is the accounting standard under which lenders reserve for the lifetime expected credit losses on a loan from the time it is originated, rather than waiting for a loss to become probable. The reserve flows through earnings.

Why it matters

Because CECL front-loads expected losses into the allowance, a problem credit drags earnings before it is ever resolved — part of why removing a classified asset has value beyond the cash.

Common questions
How is CECL different from the old model?

The prior incurred-loss model reserved only once a loss was probable; CECL requires reserving lifetime expected losses up front, using current conditions and forecasts.

How does selling a loan affect the CECL reserve?

Removing the credit releases the allowance held against it; on a decision to sell, the loan is typically moved to held-for-sale and measured at the lower of cost or fair value. See the accounting overview.

Is this accounting advice?

No — general information only; confirm treatment with your own accountants.

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