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

FORM 10-K

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Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

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For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015

or

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Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

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For the transition period from ____________________ to ____________________

Commission file number 000-55553

Central Federal Bancshares, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

INDEX

EXHIBITS INDEX

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Inc. (including a regional distribution center in St. James, Missouri) and various agencies of the federal and state governments.

Demographic and economic growth data provide additional information regarding our market area. According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, Rolla experienced population growth of 1.9% between 2010 and 2014, while the population of Phelps County declined by approximately 0.7% during the same period (which is the most recent period for which U.S. Census Bureau data is available for both areas). For comparison, during the same period, the population growth rate for the State of Missouri was estimated at 1.2% and the national growth rate was estimated at 3.3%.

Compared to the State of Missouri and national levels, Phelps County and Rolla generally report lower income levels. Median household income for 2014 (in 2014 dollars) was $41,942 for Phelps County and $32,478 for Rolla, compared to $47,764 for Missouri and $53,482 for the United States as a whole. Per capita incomes for 2014 (also in 2014 dollars) for Phelps County and Rolla were $20,900 and $17,876, respectively, compared to $26,006 and $28,555 for Missouri and the United States, respectively. The unemployment rates for Missouri and Phelps County were 4.4% and 4.0%, respectively, in December 2015 (compared to 5.8% and 6.0%, respectively, as of May 2015), below the national unemployment rate of 5.0% and 5.5% at each of December and May 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the past several years, the unemployment rate for Phelps County has been declining as the state and national unemployment rates have declined, with the highest level of unemployment in Phelps County (9.2%) occurring in February 2010, approximately the same time that national unemployment rates were peaking.

Competition

We face significant competition for the attraction of deposits and origination of loans. Our most direct competition for deposits has historically come from the many financial institutions operating in our primary market area and from other financial service companies such as securities brokerage firms, credit unions and insurance companies. We also face competition for investors’ funds from money market funds, mutual funds and other corporate and government securities. In addition, banks owned by large national and regional holding companies and other community-based banks also operate in our primary market area. Most of these institutions are larger than us and, therefore, may have greater resources.

Our competition for loans comes primarily from financial institutions, including credit unions, in our primary market area and from other financial service providers, such as mortgage companies and mortgage brokers. Competition for loans also comes from non-depository financial services companies entering the mortgage market, such as insurance companies, securities companies and specialty finance companies.

We expect competition to increase in the future as a result of legislative, regulatory and technological changes and the continuing trend of consolidation in the financial services industry. Technological advances, for example, have lowered barriers to entry, allowed banks to expand their geographic reach by providing services over the Internet, and made it possible for non-depository institutions to offer products and services that traditionally have been provided by banks. Changes in federal law now permit affiliation among banks, securities firms and insurance companies, which promotes a competitive environment in the financial services industry. Competition for deposits and the origination of loans could limit our growth in the future.

Lending Activities

General.    Lending is our principal business activity, and our loan portfolio constitutes the largest portion of our assets and is the predominant source of our interest income. Management believes that Central Federal has a history of loans to credit-worthy individuals secured by their personal residences. The largest segment of our loan portfolio is real estate loans, consisting primarily of residential real estate loans (including one- to four-family and home equity loans), and, to a lesser extent, commercial and multi-family real estate loans, commercial business loans, and consumer loans. We are a portfolio lender and retain in our portfolio substantially all loans we originate.

The following is a description of the loans we offer and our lending policies. Virtually all of our secured loans, including in particular our one- to four-family residential real estate loans, are secured by properties located in our primary lending area, which we define as Phelps County, Missouri. Any exception

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to our loan policies must be approved by the individuals or committee having authority to approve a comparable loan that conformed fully with our lending policies.

Residential Real Estate Loans.    At December 31, 2015, we had $31.7 million in residential real estate loans, which represented 63.2% of our total loan portfolio, comprised of owner-occupied one- to four-family loans, nonowner-occupied one- to four-family loans, one- to four-family construction loans, home equity lines of credit and other junior lien loans, and land loans. The following table provides more information about our residential real estate loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

Our origination of residential real estate loans enables borrowers to purchase or refinance existing one- to four-family residences, virtually all of which are located in our primary market area.

We offer adjustable-rate and fixed-rate residential real estate loans with terms of up to 30 years. Because we have not historically sold any of the one- to four-family residential real estate loans that we have originated, we have not originated these loans in conformance with either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac underwriting guidelines, although we believe our underwriting guidelines are substantially similar. We generally do not originate or fund fixed-rate mortgage loans to hold in our loan portfolio at the present time; however, we have previously made long-term fixed-rate loans as part of our lending program and we expect to originate and fund fixed-rate loans for retention in our portfolio as part of our operating strategy to increase our loan portfolio. Approximately $14.0 million of such loans remain in our portfolio as of December 31, 2015. To the extent we currently participate in the origination of long-term fixed-rate residential real estate loans, we do so under the terms of arrangements we have entered into with another financial institution. Under this arrangement, we assist in the completion of a loan application and obtain certain financial information about the applicant on behalf of the originating institution, which then underwrites the loan pursuant to its own lending policies, and, if it approves the loan, funds the loan directly. We receive a fee for our services. Currently, we do not offer loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration or guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, although these types of loans may be obtained by our customers through the loan arrangements described above. We determine the loan fees, interest rates and other provisions of the mortgage loans we originate, fund and hold in our portfolio based on our own pricing criteria and competitive market conditions.

While residential real estate loans are generally originated with up to 30-year terms, such loans typically remain outstanding for substantially shorter periods because borrowers often prepay their loans in full either upon sale of the property pledged as security or upon refinancing the original loan. Therefore, average loan maturity is a function of, among other factors, the level of purchase and sale activity in the real estate market, prevailing interest rates and the interest rates payable on outstanding loans on a regular basis. We do not offer residential real estate loans with negative amortization, and we do not make interest only residential real estate loans.

Although adjustable-rate mortgage loans may reduce to an extent our vulnerability to changes in market interest rates because they periodically reprice, as interest rates increase the required payments due from the borrower also increase (subject to rate caps), increasing the potential for default by the borrower. At the same time, the ability of the borrower to repay the loan and the marketability of the underlying collateral may be adversely affected by higher interest rates. Upward adjustments of the contractual interest

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rate are also limited by the maximum periodic and lifetime rate adjustments permitted by our loan documents. As a result, the effectiveness of adjustable-rate mortgage loans in compensating for changes in general interest rates may be limited during periods of rapidly rising interest rates.

We require an escrow for funds to pay property insurance and real estate taxes for the owner-occupied home mortgage loans we make, and loans with loan-to-value ratios in excess of 90% require private mortgage insurance. We have observed a significant demand for residential real property used for investment or income purposes, which demand arises primarily from a high demand for off-campus housing for students attending the Missouri University of Science and Technology. We underwrite and price one- to four-family residential real estate loans that are nonowner-occupied as commercial loans; such loans are subject to a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 80% and are offered at fixed rates and with a term of one, three or five years and with payments based on a 25-year amortization.

Under our loan policy, which has been approved by our board, we require all properties securing mortgage loans to be appraised by a licensed, independent appraiser. We also require title insurance on all first mortgage loans. Borrowers must obtain hazard insurance, and flood insurance is required for all residential loans located in flood hazard areas. We do not offer, and have not offered, sub-prime or no-documentation mortgage loans.

We also originate loans for the construction of one- to four-family homes. At December 31, 2015, one- to four-family construction loans were $1.2 million. Our construction loans generally provide for interest only payments during the construction phase, which is usually up to 12 months. At the end of the construction phase, the loan generally converts to a permanent mortgage loan. Loans generally can be made with a maximum loan to value ratio of 85% on residential construction, based on the appraised value as if complete. Before making a commitment to fund a construction loan, we require an appraisal of the property by an independent, licensed appraiser. We also will generally require an inspection of the property before disbursement of funds during the term of the construction loan. Finally, we also originate loans to individuals for the purpose of purchasing land for future construction of one- to four-family residences, and we offer land loans under the same general terms as nonowner-occupied one- to four-family homes described above (fixed interest rates and one, three or five year maturities, with payments amortized based on a 25-year schedule). We limit the loan-to-value ratio to a maximum of 65%.

We make home equity lines of credit and, on occasion, other junior lien loans. Home equity lines of credit are made for terms of up to 20 years at adjustable rates, with the amount of the home equity line, when combined with the amount outstanding under any first mortgage, limited to an 80% loan to value ratio. All of our home equity lines of credit currently offered are adjustable-rate loans with rates tied to the prime rate as reported in The Wall Street Journal. Our home equity lines of credit are secured by residential real estate but we do not necessarily also maintain the first mortgage on the real estate. As of December 31, 2015, we had $1.5 million of home equity and other junior lien loans.

Commercial and Multi-Family Real Estate Loans.    At December 31, 2015, we had $16.1 million in commercial and multi-family real estate loans, which represented 32.1% of our total loan portfolio, comprised of loans and lines of credit secured by commercial real estate, including multi-family residential real estate and owner-occupied commercial property. The following table provides more information about our commercial and multi-family real estate loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

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We offer loans secured by multi-family residential real property, including loans to finance the construction of multi-family residences, and also commercial real estate loans and lines of credit, including commercial real estate construction loans.

Multi-family residential real property loans are offered at fixed rates, with a one, three or five year maturity, with payments on a 25-year amortization schedule, and are subject to a loan-to-value ratio of 80% of the lesser of appraised value or the purchase price. We also offer multi-family residential construction loans and commercial construction loans with a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 80%. Finally, we offer commercial (non-residential) real estate loans with a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 80% of the lower of the appraised value or the purchase price of the property, with one, three or five year terms and payments on a 25-year amortization schedule. Commercial real estate lines of credit are available with a one year maturity.

We require all properties securing commercial mortgage loans to be appraised by a licensed, independent appraiser. We also require title insurance on all first mortgage loans. Borrowers must obtain hazard insurance, and flood insurance is required for all commercial loans located in flood hazard areas. Almost all of our commercial real estate loans are collateralized by office buildings, mixed-use properties and owner-occupied, commercial real estate located in Phelps County, Missouri.

Commercial Business Loans.    We make a relatively limited amount of commercial business loans that are either secured by assets other than real property or that are not secured. As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we had commercial business loans of  $2.0 million, or 3.9% of our total loan portfolio and $1.9 million, or 3.6%, of our total loan portfolio, respectively. For secured commercial loans and lines of credit, the interest rate and other terms are determined based upon the financial condition, including net worth, of the borrower as well as the type of collateral to secure the loan. Collateral for secured commercial business loans generally consists of the borrower’s accounts receivable, inventory and furniture, fixtures and equipment, although deposit accounts at Central Federal may also be pledged. We make unsecured commercial extensions of credit if the financial condition of the borrower is sufficient to support the loan; most of our unsecured commercial credits consist of lines of credit. We are currently evaluating supplementing our commercial business loan originations with some limited purchases of the guaranteed portion of Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, which are short term loans with fixed rates. We anticipate that commercial business loans may become a slightly larger component of our loan portfolio composition through originations supplemented with purchases of SBA loans.

Consumer and Other Loans.    Our consumer lending consists primarily of loans secured by used automobiles or other personal vehicles and, to a lesser extent, unsecured personal loans and loans secured by deposit accounts (share loans) at Central Federal. As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we had consumer and other loans of  $418,000, or 0.8% of our total loan portfolio, and $432,000, or 0.8% of our total loan portfolio, respectively. The following table provides additional information relating to our consumer lending.

Loan Underwriting and Collections

Loan Approval Procedures and Authority.    Pursuant to applicable law, the aggregate amount of loans that we are permitted to make to any one borrower or a group of related borrowers is generally limited to 15% of Central Federal’s unimpaired capital and surplus (25% if the amount in excess of 15% is secured by

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“readily marketable collateral” or 30% for certain residential development loans). In November 2012, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency approved Central Federal’s application to participate in the supplemental lending limits program (“SLLP”). Under the SLLP, Central Federal may extend credit for an additional 10% of their unimpaired capital and surplus for one- to four-family residential real estate and small business loans. The amount we can lend under this limit increased as a result of the completion of the offering in January 2016 and the contribution of 50% of the net offering proceeds to Central Federal. At December 31, 2015, our regulatory loans-to-one-borrower limit under the SLLP was $3.5 million. As of December 31, 2015, our three largest commercial real estate lending relationships consisted of multiple extensions of credit, each secured by real property, to a group of related borrowers with an aggregate principal balance of approximately $2.1 million; an extension of credit to one borrower, secured by multiple properties, of with an aggregate principal balance of approximately $1.9 million; and a loan secured by church property with an aggregate principal balance of approximately $1.8 million. At December 31, 2015, all of these loans were performing in accordance with their repayment terms.

Our lending is subject to written underwriting standards and origination procedures. Decisions on loan applications are made on the basis of written applications submitted by the prospective borrowers and property valuations (consistent with our appraisal policy) prepared by outside independent licensed appraisers, as well as internal evaluations where permitted by regulations. The loan applications are designed primarily to determine the borrower’s ability to repay the requested loan, and the more significant items on the application are verified through use of credit reports, financial statements and tax returns.

We have a loan committee comprised of our president, all loan officers (including our executive vice president — lending) and loan administration personnel. Minutes of the meetings of the loan committee are provided to our board on a monthly basis. Our executive vice president–lending and our three lending officers each has the authority to approve extensions of credit in amounts that, when aggregated with all other extensions of credit to the same or related borrowers, do not exceed $500,000. Our loan committee may approve loans in amounts that, when aggregated with all other extensions of credit to the same or related borrowers, do not exceed $750,000; all other loans must be approved by our board of directors.

Commercial and Multi-Family Real Estate, Nonowner-Occupied Residential Real Estate and Commercial Business Loans.    We consider a number of factors in originating commercial real estate loans, including multi-family real estate and nonowner-occupied, one- to four-family residential real estate loans, as well as other commercial business loans. We evaluate the qualifications and financial condition of the borrower, including credit history, profitability and expertise, as well as the value and condition of property securing the loan. Under our lending policy, positive cash flow is a requirement for all commercial loans, and we generally require a borrower, irrespective of the income and debt service capacity of assets collateralizing the loan, to demonstrate a minimum debt service coverage ratio (the ratio of net operating income to debt service) of 1.2 to 1. We also consider the financial resources of the borrower, for real estate loans, the borrower’s experience in owning or managing similar property and the borrower’s payment history with us and other financial institutions. In evaluating property securing the loan, the factors we consider include the net operating income of the mortgaged property before debt service and depreciation, the ratio of the loan amount to the appraised value of the mortgaged property and the debt service coverage ratio (the ratio of net operating income to debt service). All commercial business loans (including multi-family and nonowner-occupied real estate) are reviewed at least annually by Central Federal’s management. The review is based on the borrower (that is, all loans to one borrower are reviewed at the same time), and current financial information is obtained from the borrower and its principals at the time of the review. Loans that exceed $250,000 and that require an annual review are presented to and discussed at a meeting of our internal loan committee, loans that exceed $500,000 that require an annual review are presented to and discussed with our board of directors. All commercial and multi-family real estate loans, as well as all owner- and nonowner- occupied residential real estate loans, are appraised by outside independent, licensed appraisers. Personal guarantees are generally obtained from the principals of commercial and multi-family real estate loans.

Commercial loans, whether or not secured by real estate, entail greater credit risks compared to owner-occupied one- to four-family residential real estate loans because they typically involve larger loan balances concentrated with single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. In addition, the payment of loans secured by income-producing properties typically depends on the successful operation of the property,

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as repayment of the loan generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the property to cover operating expenses and debt service. Changes in economic conditions that are not in the control of the borrower or lender could affect the value of the collateral for the loan or the future cash flow of the property. Additionally, any decline in real estate values may be more pronounced for commercial real estate than residential properties.

Collection Procedures.    When a borrower fails to make required payments on a loan, we take a number of steps to induce the borrower to cure the delinquency and restore the loan to current status. We generally send a written notice of non-payment to the borrower between 15 and 30 days (depending on any payment grace period associated with the loan) following the missed payment and will follow up with a telephone call to the borrower if payment has not been made. If the loan remains unpaid, a further seriously past due notice is generated and mailed to the borrower, and we will make another telephone call, or an in-person visit, to the borrower. If the loan continues to remain unpaid and satisfactory payment arrangements have not been made with us, we send a letter demanding payment within 30 days; if we do not receive a satisfactory response, we may, in our discretion, turn the matter over to our attorney for further action, including the initiation of foreclosure proceedings.

The accrual of interest on real estate and commercial business loans is discontinued at the time the loan is 90 days past due unless the credit is well-secured and in process of collection. Personal loans are typically charged off no later than 180 days past due. Past due status is based on contractual terms of the loan. In all cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Loans returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest amounts contractually are brought current, the borrower has demonstrated a period of sustained performance and future payments are reasonably assured. A sustained period of repayment performance generally would be a minimum of six months. Management reports loan delinquencies to the board of directors on a monthly basis. Additional information with respect to our loans is available under “ Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Balance Sheet Analysis as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. ”

Loan Commitments.    We issue commitments for one- to four-family residential real estate loans conditioned upon the occurrence of certain events. Commitments to originate mortgage loans are legally binding agreements to lend to our customers. Most of our loan commitments expire after 30 days. See “ Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements .”

Construction Loans.    Construction financing is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk of loss than long-term financing on improved, occupied real estate. Risk of loss on a construction loan depends largely upon the accuracy of the initial estimate of the property’s value at completion of construction and the estimated cost of construction. During the construction phase, a number of factors could result in delays and cost overruns. If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, we may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the building. If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, we may be confronted, at or before the maturity of the loan, with a building having a value which is insufficient to assure full repayment if liquidation is required. If we are forced to foreclose on a building before or at completion due to a default, we may be unable to recover all of the unpaid balance of, and accrued interest on, the loan as well as related foreclosure and holding costs. For construction loans secured by residential real estate (including loans we consider to be commercial loans), we disburse funds upon request and upon an inspection of the property by Central Federal personnel. For larger commercial loans, we generally advance funds only upon receipt of certification from an engineer or architect.

Home Equity Lines of Credit.    In the case of home equity lines of credit, real estate values may be reduced to a level that is insufficient to cover the outstanding loan balance after accounting for the first mortgage loan balance. Loan collections depend on the borrower’s continuing financial stability, and, therefore, are likely to be adversely affected by various factors, including job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy. Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including federal and state bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount that can be recovered on such loans.

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Home equity lines of credit have greater risk than one- to four-family residential real estate loans secured by first mortgages, primarily the risk that the collateral will be insufficient to compensate us for loan losses and costs of foreclosure. When customers default on their loans, we attempt to foreclose on the property and resell the property as soon as possible to minimize foreclosure and carrying costs utilizing the policies and procedures described above. The value of the collateral, however, may not be sufficient to compensate us for the amount of the unpaid loan and we may be unsuccessful in recovering the remaining balance from those customers. Decreases in real estate values could adversely affect the value of property used as collateral for our loans.

Investment Activities

Our board of directors has the overall responsibility for the investment portfolio, including approval of the investment policy. Our primary investment objectives are: (i) to provide and maintain liquidity; (ii) to fully employ the available funds of Central Federal; (iii) to earn an average rate of return on invested funds competitive with comparable institutions; (iv) to manage interest rate risk; and (v) to limit credit and interest rate risk. Our chief executive officer is responsible for the implementation of our policy and monitoring our investment performance. Our board of directors reviews the status of our investment portfolio on a monthly basis.

We have legal authority to invest in various types of liquid assets, including U.S. Treasury obligations, securities of various government-sponsored agencies and of state and municipal governments, mortgage-backed securities and certificates of deposit of federally insured institutions. Within certain regulatory limits, we also may invest a portion of our assets in other permissible securities. As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, we also are required to maintain an investment in the stock of that institution.

We have an investment portfolio comprised of  $2.9 million of certificates of deposits in other financial institutions and available for sale securities. At December 31, 2015, our investment portfolio was comprised primarily of certificates of deposit in other financial institutions, each in the amount of  $248,000 and each at a different insured depository institution. We also have investments, categorized as available-for-sale, in a municipal obligation with a fair value of  $414,000 and stock of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation with a fair value of  $22,000 as of December 31, 2015. The municipal obligation has a coupon rate of 3.25%, matures in March 2033 and is callable in March 2023. Our investment strategy has remained consistent with our current philosophy of maintaining excess cash in interest-bearing deposits held in other financial institutions; we have and may continue to, on a limited basis, invest in debt securities. In addition to our investment portfolio, at December 31, 2015, we held $77,000 of Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines stock, carried at cost.

Deposit Activities and Other Sources of Funds

General.    Deposits have traditionally been our primary source of funds for use in lending and investment activities. We have not historically used borrowings and we had no outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2015 or at December 31, 2014. In addition, we receive funds from scheduled loan payments, loan prepayments, retained earnings and income on earning assets. While scheduled loan payments and income on earning assets are relatively stable sources of funds, deposit inflows and outflows can vary widely and are influenced by prevailing interest rates, market conditions and levels of competition.

Deposit Accounts.    Deposits generally are attracted from within our market area through the offering of a broad selection of deposit instruments, including non-interest-bearing demand deposits (such as checking accounts), interest-bearing demand accounts (such as NOW and money market accounts), statement savings accounts and certificates of deposit. On occasion, Central Federal will accept deposits, typically in the form of certificate of deposit in denominations of  $100,000 or greater, from other financial institutions. We do not have a formal program or policy with respect to such deposits, which are typically initiated by the other institution; rather, we will accept the deposits if, when the opportunity to accept the deposit arises, our management determines that the deposit is appropriate for us. As of December 31, 2015, the amount of deposits from such other financial institutions was $5.2 million. Deposit account terms vary according to the minimum balance required, the time periods the funds must remain on deposit and the interest rate, among other factors.

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Interest rates, maturity terms, service fees and withdrawal penalties are established on a periodic basis. Deposit rates and terms are based primarily on current operating strategies and market rates, liquidity requirements, rates paid by competitors and growth goals. The flow of deposits is influenced significantly by general economic conditions, changes in interest rates and competition. Our ability to gather deposits is affected by the competitive market in which we operate, which includes numerous financial institutions of varying sizes offering a wide range of products. We believe that deposits are a stable source of funds, but our ability to attract and maintain deposits at favorable rates will be affected by market conditions, including competition and prevailing interest rates.

Borrowings.    As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, Central Federal is eligible to obtain advances upon the security of the Federal Home Loan Bank common stock owned and certain residential real estate loans, provided certain standards related to credit-worthiness have been met. Federal Home Loan Bank advances are available pursuant to several credit programs, each of which has its own interest rate and range of maturities. Central Federal also is eligible, upon the satisfaction of collateral security and other requirements, to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. While we have obtained Federal Home Loan Bank advances in the past, we had no outstanding borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank or Federal Reserve Bank at December 31, 2015 or December 31, 2014.

Personnel

As of December 31, 2015, we had 14 full-time equivalent employees, none of whom is represented by a collective bargaining unit. We believe we have a good relationship with our employees.

Subsidiaries

We have no subsidiaries other than Central Federal.

Regulation and Supervision

General

Central Federal, as a federal savings association, is subject to extensive regulation, examination and supervision by the OCC, as its primary federal regulator, and by the FDIC as the insurer of its deposits. Its deposit accounts are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC. Central Federal must file reports with the OCC concerning its activities and financial condition in addition to obtaining regulatory approvals before entering into certain transactions such as mergers with, or acquisitions of, other financial institutions. There are periodic examinations by the OCC to evaluate Central Federal’s safety and soundness and compliance with various regulatory requirements. This regulatory structure is intended primarily for the protection of the insurance fund and depositors. The regulatory structure also gives the regulatory authorities extensive discretion in connection with their supervisory and enforcement activities and examination policies, including policies with respect to the classification of assets and the establishment of an adequate allowance for loan losses for regulatory purposes.

As a savings and loan holding company, Central Federal Bancshares is subject to examination and supervision by, and is required to file certain reports with, the Federal Reserve Board.

The Dodd-Frank Act made extensive changes to the regulation of Central Federal. Under the Dodd-Frank Act, the Office of Thrift Supervision was eliminated and responsibility for the supervision and regulation of federal savings associations such as Central Federal was transferred to the OCC on July 21, 2011. The OCC is the agency that is primarily responsible for the regulation and supervision of national banks. Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Act created a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau as an independent bureau of the Federal Reserve Board. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau assumed responsibility for the implementation of the federal financial consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations and has authority to impose new requirements. However, institutions of less than $10 billion in assets, such as Central Federal Bancshares, will continue to be examined for compliance with consumer protection and fair lending laws and regulations by, and be subject to the enforcement authority of, their prudential regulators, which is the OCC in the case of Central Federal.

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Certain of the laws and regulatory requirements that are applicable to Central Federal and Central Federal Bancshares are described below. This description of statutes and regulations is not intended to be a complete explanation of such statutes and regulations or their effects on Central Federal and Central Federal Bancshares, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to applicable laws and regulations..

Federal Banking Regulation

Business Activities.    The activities of federal savings associations, such as Central Federal, are governed by federal laws and regulations. Those laws and regulations delineate the nature and extent of the business activities in which federal savings associations may engage. In particular, certain lending authority for federal savings associations, e.g. , commercial, nonresidential real property loans and consumer loans, is limited to a specified percentage of the association’s capital or assets.

Capital Requirements.    Central Federal is subject to minimum regulatory capital requirements imposed under OCC regulations, and Central Federal Bancshares is subject to consolidated regulatory capital requirements imposed under Federal Reserve Board regulations.

Prior to 2014, the applicable capital regulations required savings associations such as Central Federal to meet three minimum capital standards: a 1.5% tangible capital to total assets ratio, a 4% Tier 1 capital to total assets leverage ratio (3% for institutions receiving the highest rating on the CAMELS examination rating system) and an 8% risk-based capital ratio. In addition, the prompt corrective action standards discussed below also established, in effect, a minimum 2% tangible capital standard, a 4% leverage ratio (3% for institutions receiving the highest rating on the CAMELS system) and, together with the risk-based capital standard itself, a 4% Tier 1 risk-based capital standard. The regulations also required that, in meeting the tangible, leverage and risk-based capital standards, institutions must generally deduct investments in and loans to subsidiaries engaged in activities as principal that are not permissible for a national bank.

In July 2013, in response to provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act and the revised standards of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, commonly called Basel III, the federal banking agencies, including the OCC and the Federal Reserve Board, adopted new capital rules that took effect on January 1, 2015. These rules included new risk-based capital and leverage ratios and revisions to the definition of what constitutes “capital” for purposes of calculating those ratios. The rules also, for the first time, imposed consolidated regulatory capital requirements on savings and loan holding companies. The minimum capital level requirements applicable to Central Federal Bancshares and Central Federal under the new rules are: (i) a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4.5%; (ii) a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6% (increased from 4%); (iii) a total capital ratio of 8% (unchanged from current rules); and (iv) a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 4% for all institutions. The rules also established a “capital conservation buffer” of 2.5% above the new regulatory minimum capital requirements, which must consist entirely of common equity Tier 1 capital and would result, in effect, in the following minimum ratios: (i) a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 7.0%, (ii) a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8.5%, and (iii) a total capital ratio of 10.5%. The new capital conservation buffer requirement began a phase-on period in January 2016 at .625% of risk-weighted assets and will increase by that amount each year until fully implemented in January 2019. An institution will be subject to limitations on paying dividends, engaging in share repurchases, and paying discretionary bonuses if its capital level falls below the buffer amount. These limitations will establish a maximum percentage of eligible retained income that could be utilized for such actions.

The capital rules require a number of changes to regulatory capital deductions and adjustments, subject to a transition period. Among other changes, the rules provide for a one-time, permanent opt-out from the treatment under such rules of certain items of accumulated other comprehensive income. The rules generally require the recognition in regulatory capital calculations of unrealized gains and losses. If an institution elects to opt-out, then the institution may continue treating accumulated other comprehensive income items in a manner consistent with the prior regulatory capital rules. The Company has made this opt-out election. The rules modify the calculation of risk-weighted assets, although they generally continue the treatment of residential mortgages under the prior rules. Under the rules, an institution may assign a 50% risk weight to a first-lien residential mortgage exposure that: (i) is secured by property that is owner-occupied or rented, (ii) is made in accordance with “prudent underwriting standards,” (iii) is not 90

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days or more past due or in nonaccrual status, and (iv) is not restructured or modified. Other first-lien residential exposures, as well as junior-lien exposures, are assigned a 100% risk weight.

The exposure amount for on-balance sheet assets is generally the carrying value of the exposure as determined under GAAP. If a banking organization has elected to opt out of the accumulated other comprehensive income provisions discussed above, the exposure amount for available for sale or held-to-maturity debt securities is the carrying value (including accrued but unpaid interest and fees) of the exposure, less any net unrealized gains plus any unrealized losses. Further, the rules retain the prior risk-weighting rules for exposures to debt directly and unconditionally guaranteed by U.S. federal government and its agencies. Such exposures receive a 0% risk weight. Exposures conditionally guaranteed by the federal government, Federal Reserve Board or a federal government agency would receive a 20% risk weight. Further, the capital rules assign a 20% risk weight to non-equity exposures to government-sponsored entities (GSEs) and a 100% risk weight to preferred stock issued by a GSE. The rules define a GSE as an entity established or chartered by the federal government to serve public purposes but whose debt obligations are not “explicitly guaranteed” by the full faith and credit of the federal government. Institutions must assign a 20% risk weight to general obligations of a public sector entity (for example, a state, local authority or other governmental subdivision below the sovereign level) that is organized under U.S. law and a 50% risk weight for a revenue obligation of such an entity.

The OCC also has authority to establish individual minimum capital requirements in appropriate cases upon a determination that an institution’s capital level is or may become inadequate in light of the particular risks or circumstances.

Prompt Corrective Regulatory Action.    Prompt corrective action regulations provide five classifications for insured depository institutions, such as Central Federal, and their holding companies: well capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized. The OCC is required to take certain supervisory actions against undercapitalized institutions, with the severity of the action depending upon the institution’s degree of undercapitalization. In addition, numerous mandatory supervisory actions become immediately applicable to an undercapitalized institution, including, but not limited to, increased monitoring by regulators and restrictions on growth, capital distributions and expansion. The OCC could also take any one of a number of discretionary supervisory actions, including the issuance of a capital directive and the replacement of senior executive officers and directors. Significantly and critically undercapitalized institutions are subject to additional mandatory and discretionary measures.

Insurance of Deposit Accounts.    Central Federal’s deposits are insured up to applicable limits by the Deposit Insurance Fund of the FDIC. Deposit insurance per account owner is currently $250,000. Under the FDIC’s risk-based assessment system, insured institutions are assigned a risk category based on supervisory evaluations, regulatory capital levels and certain other factors. An institution’s assessment rate depends upon the category to which it is assigned, and certain adjustments specified by FDIC regulations. Institutions deemed less risky pay lower assessments. The FDIC may adjust the scale uniformly, except that no adjustment can deviate more than two basis points from the base scale without notice and comment. No institution may pay a dividend if in default of the federal deposit insurance assessment.

The Dodd-Frank Act required the FDIC to revise its procedures to base its assessments upon each insured institution’s total assets less tangible equity instead of deposits. The FDIC finalized a rule, effective April 1, 2011, that set the assessment range at 2.5 to 45 basis points of total assets less tangible equity.

The FDIC has authority to increase insurance assessments. A significant increase in insurance premiums would likely have an adverse effect on the operating expenses and results of operations of Central Federal. Management cannot predict what insurance assessment rates will be in the future.

Loans to One Borrower.    Federal law provides that savings associations are generally subject to the limits on loans to one borrower applicable to national banks. Generally, subject to certain exceptions, a savings association may not make a loan or extend credit to a single or related group of borrowers in excess of 15% of its unimpaired capital and surplus. An additional amount may be lent, equal to 10% of unimpaired capital and surplus, if secured by specified readily-marketable collateral. At December 31, 2015, our regulatory loans-to-one borrower limitation under the supplemental lending limits program approved

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by the OCC was $3.5 million. All loans to one borrower that aggregate over $500,000 are reviewed by a Central Federal commercial loan officer and are presented to the board of directors annually. Further, our management reviews and recommends to the board of directors through our loan committee such lesser limitations on the extension of credit to a single borrower or borrowing entity as it feels prudent and in the best interest of Central Federal based on the current economic, competitive environment and the circumstances of Central Federal.

Qualified Thrift Lender Test.    Federal law requires savings associations to meet a qualified thrift lender test. Under the test, a savings association is required to either qualify as a “domestic building and loan association” under the Internal Revenue Code or maintain at least 65% of its “portfolio assets” (total assets less: (i) specified liquid assets up to 20% of total assets; (ii) intangibles, including goodwill; and (iii) the value of property used to conduct business) in certain “qualified thrift investments” (primarily residential mortgages and related investments, including certain mortgage-backed securities but also including education, credit card and small business loans) in at least nine months out of each 12-month period.

A savings association that fails the qualified thrift lender test is subject to certain operating restrictions, such as making any new investments or engaging in any new activity not allowed for both a national bank and a savings association, establishing any new branch office unless establishment would be allowable for a national bank, and paying dividends unless such payment would be both allowable for a national bank and necessary to meet the obligations of the association’s holding company. The Dodd-Frank Act also specifies that failing the qualified thrift lender test is a violation of law that could result in an enforcement action and dividend limitations. As of December 31, 2015, Central Federal met the qualified thrift lender test.

Limitation on Capital Distributions.    Federal regulations impose limitations upon all capital distributions by a savings association, including cash dividends, payments to repurchase the association’s shares and payments to shareholders of another institution in a cash-out merger. Under the regulations, an application to and the prior approval of the OCC is required before any capital distribution if  (i) the institution does not meet the criteria for “expedited treatment” of applications under OCC regulations (i.e., generally, examination and Community Reinvestment Act ratings in the two top categories); (ii) the total capital distributions for the calendar year exceed net income for that year plus the amount of retained net income for the preceding two years; (iii) the institution would be undercapitalized following the distribution; or (iv) the distribution would otherwise be contrary to a statute, regulation or agreement with the OCC. If an application is not required, the institution must still provide 30 days’ prior written notice to, and receive the non-objection of the Federal Reserve Board for the capital distribution if, like Central Federal, it is a subsidiary of a holding company, as well as an informational notice filing to the OCC. If Central Federal’s capital ever fell below its regulatory requirements or the OCC notified it that it was in need of increased supervision, its ability to make capital distributions could be restricted. In addition, the OCC could prohibit a proposed capital distribution by any institution, which would otherwise be permitted by the regulation, if the OCC determines that such distribution would constitute an unsafe or unsound practice.

Community Reinvestment Act.    All federal savings associations have a responsibility under the Community Reinvestment Act and related regulations to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. An institution’s failure to satisfactorily comply with the provisions of the Community Reinvestment Act could result in denials of regulatory applications. Responsibility for administering the Community Reinvestment Act, unlike other fair lending laws, is not being transferred to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Central Federal received a “satisfactory” Community Reinvestment Act rating in its most recently completed examination.

Assessments.    Central Federal is required to pay assessments to the OCC to fund the agency’s operations. The general assessments, paid on a semi-annual basis, are computed upon an association’s total assets, including consolidated subsidiaries, as reported in the association’s latest quarterly financial report. The assessments paid by Central Federal for the year ended December 31, 2015 totaled approximately $37,466.

Transactions with Related Parties.    Federal law limits Central Federal’s authority to engage in transactions with “affiliates” ( e.g. , any entity that controls or is under common control with Central Federal, including Central Federal Bancshares and any of its other subsidiaries). The aggregate amount of

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covered transactions with any individual affiliate is limited to 10% of the capital and surplus of the savings association. The aggregate amount of covered transactions with all affiliates is limited to 20% of the savings association’s capital and surplus. Certain transactions with affiliates are required to be secured by collateral in an amount and of a type specified by federal law. The purchase of low quality assets from affiliates is generally prohibited. Transactions with affiliates must generally be on terms and under circumstances that are at least as favorable to the institution as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with non-affiliated companies. In addition, savings associations are prohibited from lending to any affiliate that is engaged in activities that are not permissible for bank holding companies, and no savings association may purchase the securities of any affiliate other than a subsidiary.

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 generally prohibits loans by Central Federal Bancshares to its executive officers and directors. However, the law contains a specific exception for loans by a depository institution to its executive officers and directors in compliance with federal banking laws. Under such laws, Central Federal’s authority to extend credit to executive officers, directors and 10% shareholders (“insiders”), as well as entities such persons control, is limited. The laws limit both the individual and aggregate amount of loans that Central Federal may make to insiders based, in part, on Central Federal’s capital level, and requires that certain board approval procedures be followed. Such loans are required to be made on terms substantially the same as those offered to unaffiliated individuals and may not involve more than the normal risk of repayment. There is an exception for loans made pursuant to a benefit or compensation program that is widely available to all employees of the institution and does not give preference to insiders over other employees. Loans to executive officers are subject to additional limitations based on the type of loan involved.

Enforcement.    The OCC currently has primary enforcement responsibility over savings associations and has authority to bring actions against the institution and all institution-affiliated parties, including directors, officers, shareholders, and any attorneys, appraisers and accountants who knowingly or recklessly participate in wrongful actions likely to have an adverse effect on an insured institution. Formal enforcement action may range from the issuance of a capital directive or cease and desist order to removal of officers and/or directors to requiring receivership, conservatorship or termination of deposit insurance. Civil penalties cover a wide range of violations and can amount to $25,000 per day, or even $1.0 million per day in especially egregious cases. Additionally, the FDIC has the authority to recommend to the OCC that enforcement action be taken with respect to a particular savings association. If action is not taken by the OCC, the FDIC has authority to take such action under certain circumstances. Federal law also establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.

Federal Home Loan Bank System.    Central Federal is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System, which consists of 11 regional Federal Home Loan Banks. The Federal Home Loan Bank provides a central credit facility primarily for member institutions. Central Federal, as a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, is required to acquire and hold shares of capital stock in that Federal Home Loan Bank. Central Federal was in compliance with this requirement at December 31, 2015 with an investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock with a book value of  $77,000.

Federal Reserve System.    The Federal Reserve Board regulations require savings associations to maintain non-interest-earning reserves against their transaction accounts (primarily Negotiable Order of Withdrawal (NOW) and regular checking accounts). The regulations provided that reserves be maintained against aggregate transaction accounts as follows: a 3% reserve ratio is assessed on net transaction accounts from $15.2 million up to and including $110.2 million; and a 10% reserve ratio is applied above $110.2 million. The first $15.2 million of otherwise reservable balances (subject to adjustments by the Federal Reserve Board) are exempted from the reserve requirements.

Incentive Compensation.    Guidelines adopted by the federal banking agencies pursuant to the Federal Deposit Insurance Act prohibit excessive compensation as an unsafe and unsound practice and describe compensation as excessive when the amounts paid are unreasonable or disproportionate to the services performed by an executive officer, employee, director or principal stockholder.

The Federal Reserve Board has issued comprehensive guidance on incentive compensation policies intended to ensure that the incentive compensation policies of banking organizations do not undermine the safety and soundness of such organizations by encouraging excessive risk-taking. The guidance is based

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upon the key principles that a financial institution’s incentive compensation arrangements should (i) provide incentives that do not encourage risk-taking beyond the organization’s ability to effectively identity and manage risks; (ii) be compatible with effective internal controls and risk management; and (iii) be supported by strong corporate governance, including active and effective oversight by the institution’s board of directors. Any deficiencies in compensation practices that are identified may be incorporated into the institution’s supervisory ratings, which can affect its ability to make acquisitions or perform other actions. Enforcement actions may be taken against an institution if its incentive compensation arrangements or related risk-management control or governance processes pose a risk to the institution’s safety and soundness and the institution is not taking prompt and effective measures to correct the deficiencies.

Other Regulations

Central Federal’s operations are also subject to federal laws applicable to credit transactions, such as, but not limited to, the:

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Truth-In-Lending Act, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;

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Home Mortgage Disclosure Act of 1975, requiring financial institutions to provide information to enable the public and public officials to determine whether a financial institution is fulfilling its obligation to help meet the housing needs of the community it serves;

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Equal Credit Opportunity Act, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed or other prohibited factors in extending credit;

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Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1978, governing the use and provision of information to credit reporting agencies;

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Fair Debt Collection Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected by collection agencies; and

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Rules and regulations of the various federal agencies charged with the responsibility of implementing such federal laws.

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The operations of Central Federal also are subject to the:

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Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain the confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records;

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Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E promulgated thereunder, which govern automatic deposits to and withdrawals from deposit accounts and customers’ rights and liabilities arising from the use of automated teller machines and other electronic banking services;

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Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (also known as Check 21), which gives “substitute checks,” such as digital check images and copies made from that image, the same legal standing as the original paper check;

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Title III of The Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (referred to as the USA PATRIOT Act), and the related regulations of the Federal Reserve Board, which require savings associations operating in the United States to develop new anti-money laundering compliance programs (including a customer identification program that must be incorporated into the AML compliance program), due diligence policies and controls to ensure the detection and reporting of money laundering; and

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The Bank Secrecy Act of 1970, which requires financial institutions in the United States to keep records of cash purchases of negotiable instruments, file reports of cash purchases of negotiable instruments exceeding a daily amount of  $10,000 or more and to report suspicious activity that might signify money laundering, tax evasion, or other criminal activities.

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Holding Company Regulation

General.    As a savings and loan holding company, Central Federal Bancshares is subject to Federal Reserve Board regulations, examinations, supervision, reporting requirements and regulations regarding its activities. Among other things, this authority permits the Federal Reserve Board to restrict or prohibit activities that are determined to be a serious risk to Central Federal.

Pursuant to federal statutes, regulations and policy, a savings and loan holding company such as Central Federal Bancshares may generally engage in the activities permitted for financial holding companies under Section 4(k) of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and certain other activities that have been authorized for savings and loan holding companies by regulation.

Federal law prohibits a savings and loan holding company from, directly or indirectly or through one or more subsidiaries, acquiring more than 5% of the voting stock of another savings association, or savings and loan holding company thereof, without prior written approval of the Federal Reserve Board or from acquiring or retaining, with certain exceptions, more than 5% of a non-subsidiary holding company or savings association. A savings and loan holding company is also prohibited from acquiring more than 5% of a company engaged in activities other than those authorized by federal law or acquiring or retaining control of a depository institution that is not insured by the FDIC. In evaluating applications by holding companies to acquire savings associations, the Federal Reserve Board must consider the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the company and institution involved, the effect of the acquisition on the risk to the insurance funds, the convenience and needs of the community and competitive factors.

The Federal Reserve Board is prohibited from approving any acquisition that would result in a multiple savings and loan holding company controlling savings associations in more than one state, except: (i) the approval of interstate supervisory acquisitions by savings and loan holding companies; and (ii) the acquisition of a savings association in another state if the laws of the state of the target savings association specifically permit such acquisitions. The states vary in the extent to which they permit interstate savings and loan holding company acquisitions.

Capital Requirements.    Savings and loan holding companies historically have not been subject to consolidated regulatory capital requirements. However, in July 2013, the Federal Reserve Board approved a new rule that implemented the “Basel III” regulatory capital reforms and changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act. The final rule established consolidated capital requirements for many savings and loan holding companies, including Central Federal Bancshares. See “ Regulation and Supervision — Federal Banking Regulation — Capital Requirements .”

Source of Strength.    The Dodd-Frank Act also extended the Federal Reserve Board’s “source of strength” doctrine to savings and loan holding companies such as Central Federal Bancshares. The Federal Reserve Board has issued regulations implementing the “source of strength” policy requiring that holding companies act as a source of strength to their subsidiary depository institutions by providing capital, liquidity and other support in times of financial stress.

Dividends and Stock Repurchases.    The Federal Reserve Board has the power to prohibit payment of dividends by savings and loan holding companies if their actions constitute unsafe or unsound practices. The Federal Reserve Board has issued a policy statement on the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies which expresses the Federal Reserve Board’s view that a holding company should pay cash dividends only to the extent that the company’s 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 company’s capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. The Federal Reserve Board also indicated that it would be inappropriate for a holding company experiencing serious financial problems to borrow funds to pay dividends. Under the prompt corrective action regulations, the Federal Reserve Board may prohibit a savings and loan holding company from paying any dividends if the holding company’s bank subsidiary is classified as “undercapitalized.”

Federal Reserve Board policy also provides that a holding company should inform the Federal Reserve Board supervisory staff prior to redeeming or repurchasing common stock or perpetual preferred stock if the holding company is experiencing financial weaknesses or if the repurchase or redemption would result

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in a net reduction, as of the end of a quarter, in the amount of such equity instruments outstanding compared with the beginning of the quarter in which the redemption or repurchase occurred.

Acquisition of Central Federal Bancshares.    Under the federal Change in Bank Control Act, a notice must be submitted to the Federal Reserve Board if any person (including a company), or group acting in concert, seeks to acquire direct or indirect “control” of a savings and loan holding company or savings association. Under certain circumstances, a change of control may occur, and prior notice is required, upon the acquisition of 10% or more of the outstanding voting stock of the company or institution, unless the Federal Reserve Board has found that the acquisition will not result in a change of control. A change in control definitively occurs upon the acquisition of 25% or more of the company’s outstanding voting stock. Under the Change in Control Act, the Federal Reserve Board generally has 60 days from the filing of a complete notice to act, taking into consideration certain factors, including the financial and managerial resources of the acquirer and the anti-trust effects of the acquisition. Any company that acquires control would then be subject to regulation as a savings and loan holding company.

Emerging Growth Company Status

The JOBS Act, which was enacted in April 2012, has made numerous changes to the federal securities laws to facilitate access to capital markets. Under the JOBS Act, a company with total annual gross revenues of less than $1.0 billion during its most recently completed fiscal year qualifies as an “emerging growth company.” Central Federal Bancshares qualifies as an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act.

An “emerging growth company” may choose not to hold stockholder votes to approve annual executive compensation (more frequently referred to as “say-on-pay” votes) or executive compensation payable in connection with a merger (more frequently referred to as “say-on-golden parachute” votes). Such a company also may present only two years of audited financial statements and only two years of related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in a public offering prospectus. An emerging growth company also is not subject to the requirement that its auditors attest to the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting, and can provide scaled disclosure regarding executive compensation; accordingly, Central Federal Bancshares is not subject to the auditor attestation requirement or additional executive compensation disclosure so long as it remains a “smaller reporting company” under SEC regulations (generally less than $75 million of voting and non-voting equity held by non-affiliates). The JOBS Act also provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. Thus, an emerging growth company can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. Central Federal Bancshares has elected to avail itself of this extended transition period.

A company loses emerging growth company status on the earlier of: (i) the last day of the fiscal year of the company during which it had total annual gross revenues of  $1.0 billion or more; (ii) the last day of the fiscal year of the issuer following the fifth anniversary of the date of the first sale of common equity securities of the company pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act; (iii) the date on which such company has, during the previous three-year period, issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt; or (iv) the date on which such company is deemed to be a “large accelerated filer” under SEC regulations (generally, at least $700 million of voting and non-voting equity held by non-affiliates).

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements included in this report and in our future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in our press releases, and in oral statements made with the approval of an authorized executive officer, which are not historical or current facts, are “forward-looking statements” made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical earnings and those presently anticipated or projected. These forward-looking statements are sometimes identified by the use of terms and phrases such as “believe,” “should,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “can,” “may,” or similar expressions elsewhere in this report. Forward-looking statements include:

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statements of our goals, intentions and expectations;

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statements regarding our business plans, prospects, growth and operating strategies;

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statements regarding the quality of our loan and investment portfolios; and

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estimates of our risks and future costs and benefits.

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Such statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions, and involve risks and uncertainties that could affect expected results. Those risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to the following:

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general economic conditions, either nationally or in our primary market area, that are worse than expected;

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changes in the interest rate environment that reduce our interest margins or reduce the fair value of financial instruments;

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credit risks of lending activities, including changes in the level and trend of loan delinquencies and write-offs and in our allowance for loan losses and provision for loan losses;

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our ability to implement our strategic plans;

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changes in our organization, compensation and benefit plans, and our ability to attract and retain key members of our senior management team and to address staffing needs in response to product demand or to implement our strategic plans;

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the use of estimates in determining fair value of certain of our assets, which may prove to be incorrect and result in significant declines in valuations;

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fluctuations in the demand for loans, which may be affected by the number of unsold homes, land and other properties in our market areas and by any declines in the value of real estate in our market area;

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our ability to attract and maintain deposits and our success in introducing new financial products;

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significant increases in our loan losses, including as a result of our inability to resolve classified and non-performing assets or reduce risks associated with our loans, and management’s assumptions in determining the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses;

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declines in the yield on our assets resulting from the current low interest rate environment;

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risks related to a high concentration of loans secured by real estate located in our market area;

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the results of examinations by our regulators, including the possibility that our regulators may, among other things, require us to increase our allowance for loan losses, write down assets, change our regulatory capital position, limit our ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase deposits, or prohibit us from paying dividends, which could adversely affect our dividends and earnings;

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our ability to have sufficient taxable income to be able to fully deduct the contribution to our charitable foundation;

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changes in the level of government support of housing finance;

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our ability to enter new markets successfully and capitalize on growth opportunities;

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changes in our compensation and benefit plans;

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loan delinquencies and changes in the underlying cash flows of our borrowers;

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our ability to control costs and expenses, particularly those associated with operating as a publicly traded company;

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the failure or security breaches of computer systems on which we depend;

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the ability of key third-party service providers to perform their obligations to us;

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changes in the financial condition or future prospects of issuers of securities that we own;

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increased competitive pressures among financial services companies;

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changes in consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits;

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adverse changes in the financial industry, securities, credit and national and local real estate markets (including real estate values);

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changes in laws or government regulations or policies affecting financial institutions, including the Dodd-Frank Act, which could result in, among other things, increased deposit insurance premiums and assessments, capital requirements (particularly the new capital regulations), regulatory fees and compliance costs and the resources we have available to address such changes;

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changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the bank regulatory agencies, the SEC, the Financial Accounting Standards Board or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; and

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other economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory and operational factors affecting our operations, pricing, products and services described elsewhere in this report.

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Our results of operations and financial condition may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Any of the forward-looking statements that we make in this report and in other public statements we make may later prove incorrect because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors illustrated above or other factors that we cannot foresee. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed.

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements that we make in this report and in other public statements we make as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance or events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur. Moreover, we undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this report to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

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The presentation of Risk Factors is not required for smaller reporting companies such as Central Federal Bancshares.

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments

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None.

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(1)

Represents the difference between the weighted-average yield on interest-earning assets and weighted-average rate of interest-bearing liabilities for the year.

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(2)

The net interest margin represents net interest income as a percent of average interest-earning assets for the year.

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(3)

The efficiency ratio represents noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and noninterest income.

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(4)

Common equity Tier 1 (to risk-weighted assets) was not in effect for periods prior to the year ended December 31, 2015.

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The Basel III capital rules, which became effective January 1, 2015, revised the prompt corrective action requirements by: (i) introducing a Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based ratio requirement at each level (other than critically undercapitalized), with the required Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based ratio being 6.5% for “well-capitalized” status; (ii) increasing the minimum Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio requirement for each category (other than critically undercapitalized), with the minimum Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio for “well-capitalized” status being 8% (compared to the prior ratio of 6%) and (iii) eliminating the former provision that provided that a bank with a composite supervisory rating of 1 may have a 3% Leverage Ratio and still be adequately capitalized. The Basel III Capital Rules did not change the total risk based capital requirement for any prompt corrective action category.

The Common Equity Tier 1 risk-based ratio requirement was not in effect prior to January 1, 2015, therefore, the ratios for the periods prior to January 1, 2015 are not applicable.

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

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Operating Strategy

Central Federal is a community-oriented financial institution, dedicated to serving the financial needs of customers within its market area. We have identified the following strategic initiatives we intend to pursue in our efforts to achieve our goal to operate and grow a profitable community-oriented financial institution:

Building on our strengths as a community-oriented financial institution.    We have operated continuously as a community-oriented financial institution since we were founded in 1952. We are committed to meeting the financial needs of our local community and are dedicated to providing quality personal service to our customers. In that regard, we are focused on building our customer base in the communities we serve through the enhancement of our products and additional marketing of these products and services. Further, we have provided our customers the opportunity to become shareholders through our stock offering.

Increasing loan production while maintaining our asset quality.    Our loan portfolio has slightly declined over the past few years in our very competitive market area. Through additional marketing and perhaps the addition of more lending personnel, we hope to grow our loan portfolio. In growing the loan portfolio, we will seek to maintain strong asset quality by following prudent underwriting guidelines and utilizing our knowledge of our local market area.

Strengthening our capital to protect against rising interest rates.    We currently have a strong capital base which is sufficient for interest rate risk purposes in the current low interest rate environment given our interest rate risk profile. We know if interest rates rise, having a strong capital base will provide us with additional strength to withstand the impact of rising interest rates. Further, the cash generated from the conversion could be used to fund loans or purchase investment securities at higher interest rate levels should interest rates rise, providing additional net interest income.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the

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date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term include the determination of the allowance for loan losses, valuation of foreclosed assets, and valuation of deferred tax assets.

Allowance for Loan Losses.    The allowance for loan losses is an estimate made by management as necessary to cover probable losses in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. The allowance is established through a provision for loan losses which is charged to expense. Additions to the allowance are expected to maintain the adequacy of the total allowance after loan losses and loan growth. Loan losses are charged off against the allowance when Central Federal determines the loan balance to be uncollectible. Cash received on previously charged off amounts is recorded as a recovery to the allowance. Although management believes the allowance to be adequate, ultimate losses may vary from its estimates. At least quarterly, the board of directors reviews the adequacy of the allowance, including consideration of the relevant risks in the portfolio, current economic conditions, and other factors. If the board of directors and management determine that changes are warranted based on those reviews, the allowance is adjusted. In addition, Central Federal’s primary regulator reviews the adequacy of the allowance. The regulatory agencies may require additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available at the time of their examinations.

Foreclosed Assets.    Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are held for sale and are initially recorded at fair value less estimated selling costs at the date of foreclosure, establishing a new cost basis. Subsequent to foreclosure, valuations are periodically performed by management and the assets held for sale are carried at the lower of the new cost basis or fair value less cost to sell. This evaluation is inherently subjective and requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revisions as more information becomes available. Due to potential changes in conditions, it is at least reasonably possible that changes in fair values will occur in the near term and that such changes could materially affect the amounts reported in Central Federal’s financial statements.

Deferred Tax Assets.    Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the 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 expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. These calculations are based on many complex factors including estimates of the timing of reversals of temporary differences, the interpretation of federal and state income tax laws, and a determination of the differences between the tax and the financial reporting basis of assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ significantly from the estimates and interpretations used in determining the current and deferred income tax liabilities.

The Company completed its offering of common stock on January 12, 2016. In connection with the offering, the Company contributed to the Central Federal Community Foundation $100,000 in cash and common stock of  $687,700 (68,770 shares at the $10.00 offering price) for a total contribution of  $787,700. For Federal income tax purposes, the deduction for charitable contributions is limited to a maximum of 10% of taxable income before charitable contributions, net operating losses and dividends received deductions. We are permitted under the Internal Revenue Code to carry the excess contribution over the five-year period following the contribution to the charitable foundation, subject to the 10% annual limitation.

We may not have sufficient taxable income to be able to fully deduct the contribution in the year in which it is made or during the five-year carryover period permitted under the Internal Revenue Code. To the extent we estimate we will not be able to fully utilize the carryover, we will be required to establish a valuation allowance related to the portion of the deferred tax asset that is not deemed to be realizable.

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Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

Overview.    We had net income of  $69,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared to net income of  $119,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014. The $50,000, or 42.0%, decrease in net income between the years was primarily a result of net interest income decreasing $63,000 and noninterest expense increasing $57,000, partially offset by a $60,000 decrease in the provision for loan loss in 2014 and no provision being added in 2015.

Net Interest Income.    The following table presents a summary of net interest income before provision for loan losses.

Net interest income decreased by $63,000, or 3.2%, to $1,909,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015 from $1,972,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014. Although interest income on loans decreased by $109,000 from the year ended December 31, 2014 to the year ended December 31, 2015, interest expense decreased by $33,000 during that same period, offsetting a portion of the decreased interest income. In addition, securities and other interest income increased by $13,000. Securities and other interest income consists of interest earning due from bank accounts, certificates of deposits, municipal obligations, federal funds sold and dividends on FHLB Stock. The increase in interest on securities and other interest bearing assets of  $1,417,000 was primarily a result of an increase in cash in the Federal Reserve Bank account at the end of the year as a result of receipt of subscriptions in advance of the conversion of Central Federal to stock form.

The decrease in interest income on loans is primarily the result of a $2.9 million decrease in the average balance of loans from $52.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $50.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Although originations were higher in 2015 than 2014, the current year included a large amount of principal repayments, which decreased the average balance during the year.

The decrease in interest expense on deposits was due to a $1.6 million decrease in the average balance of deposits from $47.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 to $46.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Average Balances and Yields.    The following table presents information regarding average balances of assets and liabilities, the total dollar amounts of interest income and dividends from average interest-earning assets, the total dollar amounts of interest expense on average interest-bearing liabilities, and the resulting annualized average yields and costs. The yields and costs for the years indicated are derived by dividing income or expense by the average balances of assets or liabilities, respectively, for the years presented. Average balances have been calculated using daily balances, and non-accrual loans are included in average balances only. Loan fees are included in interest income on loans and are insignificant. Any adjustments necessary to present yields on a tax-equivalent basis are insignificant.

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(1)

Includes municipal obligations with an average balance and interest income of  $107,000 and $2,000, respectively.

​

(2)

Interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on average interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.

​

(3)

Net interest-earning assets represents total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.

​

(4)

Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by total interest-earning assets.

​

Rate/Volume Analysis.    The following table sets forth the effects of changing rates and volumes on our net interest income. The rate column shows the effects attributable to changes in rate (changes in rate multiplied by prior volume). The volume column shows the effects attributable to changes in volume (changes in volume multiplied by prior rate). The total column represents the sum of the prior columns. Changes attributable to changes in both rate and volume have been allocated proportionally based on the absolute dollar amounts of changes in each. The following table presents the rate volume analysis for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

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Provision for Loan Losses.    We maintain an allowance for loan losses at a level necessary to absorb management’s best estimate of probable loan losses in the portfolio. Management reviews the level of the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis based on a variety of factors. Management considers, among other factors, historical loss experience, type and amount of loans, borrower concentrations and current conditions of the economy. In addition, the allowance considers the level of loans which management monitors as a result of inconsistent repayment patterns. Such loans carry a higher degree of credit risk than our historical single-family lending.

Management also reviews individual loans for which full collectability may not be reasonably assured and considers, among other matters, the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral. This evaluation is ongoing and results in variations in our provision for loan losses.

We had no provision for loan losses for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to a provision of $60,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014. Net loan charge-offs amounted to $18,000 during the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $132,000 during the year ended December 31, 2014.

The reduction in the level of provision for loan losses reflects lower levels of specific allowances related to impaired loans individually evaluated for impairment, a decrease in non-performing loans, and the stabilization of the quantitative and qualitative factors during the year ended December 31, 2015.

Although management utilizes its best judgment in providing for losses, there can be no assurance that they will not have to change its allowance for loan losses in subsequent periods. The allowance for loan losses reflects the estimate we believe to be appropriate to cover incurred probable losses in the loan portfolio at December 31, 2015. While we believe the estimates and assumptions used in our determination of the adequacy of the allowance are reasonable, such estimates and assumptions could be proven incorrect in the future, and the actual amount of future provisions may exceed the amount of past provisions, and the increase in future provisions that may be required may adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, our primary regulator may comment during an examination on the provision for loan losses or the recognition of further loan charge-offs, based on judgments regarding loan portfolio information available at the time of the examination. Management will continue to monitor the allowance for loan losses and make additional provisions to the allowance as appropriate.

An analysis of the changes in the allowance for loan losses, non-performing loans and classified loans is presented under Allowance for Loan Losses, Analysis of Non-Performing Assets and Troubled Debt Restructurings, and Classified Assets below.

Noninterest Income.    Total noninterest income remained relatively stable decreasing a modest $6,000 comparing the year ended December 31, 2014 to the year ended December 31, 2015. The table below summarizes information related to non-interest income.

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Noninterest Expenses.    Total noninterest expenses increased by $57,000, or 3.2%, for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease primarily was attributable to a $41,000, or 75.9%, increase in legal and professional services expense related in large part to the re-audit of our financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 performed in conjunction with the conversion from a federally chartered mutual savings association into a federally chartered stock savings association, and formation of a stock holding company.

Income Tax Expense.    We had an income tax expense of  $44,000 and $60,000 during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The decrease in income tax expense reflects a decrease in pre-tax income for 2015 compared to 2014. Our effective tax rate increased from 33.5% in 2014 to 38.9% in 2015.

Balance Sheet Analysis as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014

Total Assets.    At December 31, 2015, total assets were $80.9 million, an increase of  $16.9 million, or 26.4%, from total assets of  $64.0 million at December 31, 2014. The increase in assets for the year ended December 31, 2015 was due mainly to a $17.1 million, or 216.5%, increase in cash and cash equivalents from the receipt of subscriptions in advance of the conversion of Central Federal to stock form, which were maintained in a deposit account at Central Federal, and a $1.4 million increase in other assets, offset by a $2.3 million, or 4.4%, decrease in loans. The increase in other assets relates to the deferral of stock conversion costs of  $1.4 million at December 31, 2015.

Loans.    The largest portion of our loan portfolio consists of residential real estate loans which totaled $31.7 million, or 63.2%, and $34.2 million, or 65.1%, of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Residential real estate loans decreased by $2.5 million, or 7.2%, during the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily due to a weak loan demand and competitive interest rates in our market area.

Commercial and multi-family real estate loans totaled $16.1 million and represented 32.1% of total loans at December 31, 2015. This is an increase of  $123,000, or 0.8%, from $16.0 million, or 30.5% of total loans, at December 31, 2014. The market area served by Central Federal is very competitive and interest rate sensitive. Commercial real estate loans generally consist of loans secured by multi-family residential rentals, retail stores, and other commercial real estate.

Commercial business loans totaled $2.0 million and $1.9 million, comprising 3.9% and 3.6% of the total loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Commercial business loans increased $71,000, or 3.8%, during the year ended December 31, 2015.

Consumer and other loans decreased by $14,000, or 3.2%, from $432,000 at December 31, 2014 to $418,000 at December 31, 2015.

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Loan Portfolio Composition.    The following table sets forth the composition of our loan portfolio at the dates indicated.

Loan Maturity.    The following table summarizes the scheduled repayments of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2015. Demand loans, loans having no stated repayment schedule or maturity and overdraft loans are reported as being due in one year or less. Actual maturities may differ due to prepayments.

Fixed vs Adjustable Rate Loans.    The following table sets forth the dollar amount of all loans at December 31, 2015 that are due after December 31, 2016, and that have either fixed interest rates, or floating or adjustable interest rates. The amounts shown below exclude deferred loan origination fees and deferred loan costs.

Scheduled contractual principal repayments of loans do not reflect the actual life of such assets. The average life of loans is substantially less than their contractual terms because of prepayments. In addition, due-on-sale clauses on loans generally give us the right to declare a loan immediately due and payable in the event, among other things, that the borrower sells the real property subject to the mortgage and the loan is

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not repaid. The average life of mortgage loans tends to increase when current mortgage loan market rates are substantially higher than rates on existing mortgage loans and, conversely, decrease when current mortgage loan market rates are substantially lower than rates on existing mortgage loans.

Loan Activity.    The following table shows loan activity, consisting of loans originated, loan payoffs and loan charge-offs, for the year indicated.

Loan originations come from a variety of sources. Our primary sources of loan originations are existing customers, walk-in traffic, advertising and referrals from customers.

We did not sell any loans during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. From time to time we do buy participation loans. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we purchased a $700,000 participation interest in a commercial real estate loan from another financial institution. We did not purchase any loans during the year ended December 31, 2015.

Allowance for Loan Losses.    The allowance for loan losses (allowance) is an estimate of probable loan losses in Central Federal’s loan portfolio. The allowance is established through a provision for loan losses which is charged to expense. Additions to the allowance are expected to maintain the adequacy of the total allowance after loan losses and loan growth. Loan losses are charged off against the allowance when Central Federal determines the loan balance to be uncollectible. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance.

General Allowances.    The general component of the loan loss allowance covers non-impaired loans and is based on historical losses adjusted for current qualitative factors. The historical loss component is determined by portfolio segment and is based on the actual loss history experienced by Central Federal over the most recent three years. This is adjusted for qualitative factors based on the risks present for each portfolio segment. These qualitative factors include: (i) changes in the value of underlying collateral; (ii) changes in lending policies and underwriting practices; (iii) national and local economic trends and conditions; (iv) volume and terms of loans; (v) experience, ability and depth of lending management; (vi) changes in past due loans, nonaccrual loans, and credit quality; (vii) changes in loan file review; (viii) changes in credit concentrations and (ix) the impact of competition.

Specific Allowances.    The specific component includes allowances for loans that are considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that Central Federal will be unable to collect the scheduled payments and principal or interest under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Central Federal measures individual impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the original contractual interest rate, except that as a practical expedient, it may measure impairment based on an observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral, if collateral dependent. A loan is collateral dependent if the repayment is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral.

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Unallocated Allowances.    Allowances other than general and specific allocations are included in the unallocated portion of the loan loss allowance. The unallocated allowance reflects the imprecision inherent in the underlying assumptions used in the methodologies for estimating the general allowance.

At December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the allowance was $261,000 and $279,000, respectively. At December 31, 2015, the largest allowance in the portfolio was the allowance for residential real estate loans which made up approximately 70.1% of the total allowance at $183,000, and at December 31, 2014, the largest allowance in the portfolio was the allowance for residential real estate loans which made up about 69.2% of the total allowance at $193,000.

The following table sets forth the breakdown of the allowance for loan losses by loan category at the dates indicated. The allocation of the allowance to each category is not necessarily indicative of future losses and does not restrict the use of the allowance to absorb losses in each category.

At December 31, 2015, our allowance for loan losses of  $261,000 was 0.5% of total loans and 33.5% of non-performing loans. At December 31, 2014, our allowance for loan losses of  $279,000 was 0.5% of total loans and 29.2% of non-performing loans.

Although we believe that we use the best available information to establish the allowance for loan losses, future adjustments to the allowance for loan losses may be necessary and our results of operations could be adversely affected if circumstances differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the determinations. At least quarterly, the board of directors reviews the adequacy of the allowance, including consideration of the relevant risks in the portfolio, current economic conditions, and other factors. If the board of directors and management determine that changes are warranted based on those reviews, the allowance is adjusted.

Furthermore, while we believe we have established our allowance for loan losses in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and have taken into account the views of regulators and the current economic environment, there can be no assurance that in the future Central Federal’s regulators or the economic environment will not require further increases in the allowance. Any material increases in the allowance for loan losses may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operation.

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Analysis of Loan Loss Experience.    The following table sets forth an analysis of the allowance for loan losses for the years indicated.

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the allowance decreased by $18,000 to $261,000, as compared to a decrease of  $72,000 to $279,000 during the same period in 2014. The decrease for the year ended December 31, 2015 was due to $19,000 in charge-offs offset with $1,000 in recoveries. Residential real estate charge-offs were lower in 2015 as charge-offs were minimal with the largest charge-off being $17,000. In 2014, the largest charge-off was for $104,000. The allowance for loan losses to non-performing loans ratio increased due to a decrease in non-performing loans to $779,000 as of December 31, 2015 from $956,000 as of December 31, 2014. Non-performing loans decreased due to one residential real estate property foreclosed. The allowance for loan loss as a percentage of total loans as of December 31, 2015 decreased by 0.01% to 0.52% compared to 0.53% as of December 31, 2014.

Delinquencies.    The following table provides the information about delinquencies in our loan portfolio at the dates indicated.

As of December 31, 2015 there were 9 loans delinquent between 30 – 89 days that totaled $198,000. This is an increase in the 5 loans delinquent for 30 – 89 days, but a decrease in the amount of the loans from $208,000 as of December 31, 2014. There was a decrease in loans delinquent for 90 days or more from 7 loans as of December 31, 2014 to 3 loans as of December 31, 2015.

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Managing risk is an essential part of successfully managing a financial institution. Our most prominent risk exposures are credit risk, interest rate risk and market risk. Credit risk is the risk of not collecting the interest and/or the principal balance of a loan when it is due. Interest rate risk is the potential reduction of interest income and/or the potential increase of interest expense as a result of changes in interest rates. Market risk reflects changes in the value of collateral underlying loans receivable and the valuation of real estate held by Central Federal. Other risks that we face are operational risk, liquidity risks and reputation risk. Operational risks include risks related to fraud, regulatory compliance, processing errors, technology, use of third-party vendors and disaster recovery. Liquidity risk is the possible inability to fund obligations to depositors, lenders or potential borrowers. Reputation risk is the risk that negative publicity or press, whether true or not, could cause a decline in our customer base or income.

Analysis of Non-Performing Assets and Troubled Debt Restructurings.    We consider foreclosed assets, which are assets repossessed by Central Federal, accruing loans 90 days or more past due and non-accrual loans to be non-performing assets. Assets acquired through, or in lieu of, loan foreclosure are considered foreclosed assets and are held for sale. These assets are initially recorded at fair value less estimated selling cost at the date of foreclosure, which establishes a new cost basis for those assets. Any write-downs based on the asset’s fair value at the date of foreclosure, or subsequent to the date of foreclosure, are charged to the allowance for loan losses. The assets held for sale are carried at the lower of the new cost basis or fair value less cost to sell.

Loans are generally placed on non-accrual status when the collectability is considered to be uncertain or payments have become more than 90 days or more delinquent, unless the credit is well-secured and in process of collection. In some cases, loans are placed on nonaccrual or charged-off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Credit card loans and other personal loans are typically charged off no later than 180 days past due. As of December 31, 2015, we had 2 loans on non-accrual status totaling $679,000, compared to 9 loans on non-accrual status amounting to $644,000 as of December 31, 2014. Nonaccrual loans for those periods represented 1.4% and 1.2% of total loans, respectively.

Under certain circumstances, Central Federal will provide borrowers relief through loan restructuring. A restructuring of debt constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”) if Central Federal, for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower’s financial situation, grants a concession to the borrower that it would not otherwise have considered. Loans that are reported as TDRs are considered impaired and measured for impairment. Depending on the individual facts and circumstances of the borrower, restructuring loans can involve loans remaining in full nonaccrual, moving to nonaccrual or continuing on accrual status.

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The following table provides information with respect to our non-performing assets and TDRs at the dates indicated.

Total non-performing loans decreased by $177,000 from $956,000 at December 31, 2014 to $779,000 at December 31, 2015. The majority of this change was due to a $513,000 decrease in residential real estate loans mainly attributed to one loan, amounting to $265,000, transferred to real estate owned and a $212,000 decrease in loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing. Real estate owned has increased from one property of  $243,000 at December 31, 2014 to three properties totaling $608,000 at December 31, 2015.

There was one loan that was considered a TDR as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 with a balance of  $390,000 and $391,000, respectively.

Foreclosed assets at December 31, 2015 consisted of 3 properties totaling $608,000, which is an increase from the single foreclosed asset at December 31, 2014 which totaled $243,000. The increase is due to a property in Cuba, Missouri being foreclosed-on during the second quarter of 2015 and a second property in Rolla, Missouri being foreclosed-on during the third quarter of 2015 and repossessed by Central Federal.

At June 30, 2015, we had no loans which were not classified as nonaccrual, 90 days past due or TDRs but where known information about possible credit problems of the borrowers caused management to have concerns as to the ability of the borrowers to comply with present loan repayment terms and which may result in the future inclusion of such items in non-performing loans.

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Securities.    Our board of directors has the overall responsibility for the investment portfolio, including approval of the investment policy. Our primary investment objectives are: (i) to provide and maintain liquidity; (ii) to fully employ the available funds of Central Federal; (iii) to earn an average rate of return on invested funds competitive with comparable institutions; (iv) to manage interest rate risk; and (v) to limit credit and interest rate risk. Our chief executive officer is responsible for the implementation of our policy and monitoring our investment performance. Our board of directors reviews the status of our investment portfolio on a monthly basis.

We have legal authority to invest in various types of liquid assets, including U.S. Treasury obligations, securities of various government-sponsored agencies and of state and municipal governments, mortgage-backed securities and certificates of deposit of federally insured institutions. Within certain

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regulatory limits, we also may invest a portion of our assets in other permissible securities. As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, we also are required to maintain an investment in the stock of that institution.

The following table sets forth the amortized costs and fair values of our available-for-sale securities at the dates indicated. There were no investments in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014.

Our securities available-for-sale consists of a municipal obligation valued at $414,000 and $0 at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively, and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation common stock with a fair value of  $22,000 and $31,000 at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The overall change in securities available-for-sale during 2015 is due to our purchase of the municipal obligation.

We held $2.5 million of certificates of deposits in other financial institutions at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. The balance has not changed during this time, however there were two securities which matured throughout the year and were replaced with new certificates of deposit for the same amount maturing in 2020. We plan to hold these investments until maturity.

In addition to our investment portfolio, at December 31, 2015 we held $77,000 of Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines stock, carried at cost.

Deposits.    Deposits have traditionally been our primary source of funds for use in lending and investment activities. Deposits generally are attracted from within our market area through the offering of a broad selection of deposit instruments, including non-interest-bearing demand deposit accounts (“DDA”) (such as checking accounts), interest-bearing demand deposit accounts (such as checking and money market accounts), statement savings accounts, and certificates of deposit. Deposit account terms vary according to the minimum balance required, the time period for which the funds must remain on deposit, and the interest rate, among other factors.

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The following table sets forth the balances of our deposit accounts at the dates indicated.

The following table sets forth deposit activity for the years indicated.

Total deposits increased by $16.3 million, or 32.5%, from $50.3 million, or 78.6% of total assets, at December 31, 2014 to $66.6 million, or 82.4% of total assets, at December 31, 2015, from the receipt of subscriptions in advance of the conversion of Central Federal to stock form, which were maintained in a deposit account at Central Federal. Interest-bearing demand deposits make up the majority of the deposit balance accounting for $18.8 million, or 28.2%, and $18.9 million, or 37.7%, as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. Non-interest bearing demand deposits increased by $19.2 million due to subscriptions related to Central Federal’s stock conversion, being placed in the noninterest bearing DDA account. Savings accounts remained consistent.

Certificates of deposits, specifically those less than $250,000, decreased by $2.0 million as a number of securities expired in 2015. The follow table provides information regarding all of our certificates of deposit by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2015.

The following table indicates the amount of certificates of deposits with balances of  $100,000 or greater by time remaining until maturity as of December 31, 2015.

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Equity.    Equity increased by $68,000, or 0.5%, to $13.7 million at December 31, 2015 from $13.6 million at December 31, 2014, primarily as the result of net income of  $69,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Liquidity Management

Liquidity is the ability to meet current and future financial obligations of a short-term nature. Our primary sources of funds available to meet short-term liquidity needs consist of deposits, funds from scheduled loan payments, loan prepayments, and income on earning assets. While maturities and scheduled amortization of loans are predictable sources of funds, deposit flows, and mortgage prepayments are greatly influenced by general interest rates, economic conditions, and competition.

Our most liquid assets are cash and cash equivalents, interest-bearing deposits, and securities available for sale. At December 31, 2015, cash and cash equivalents totaled $25.0 million. Of the $25.0 million of cash and cash equivalents, $19.2 million represent subscriptions in advance of the conversion of Central Federal to stock form. Certificates of deposit in other financial institutions and securities available-for-sale totaled $2.5 million and $436,000, respectively, at December 31, 2015.

Our cash flows are composed of three primary classifications: cash flows from operating activities, investing activities, and financing activities. Net cash used in operating activities was $715,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015, and net cash provided by operating activities was $299,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively. The majority of this change was due to the fact that Central Federal incurred common stock conversion and issuance costs of  $1.4 million, which were deferred and deducted from proceeds of the offering. Net cash provided by investing activities, which consists primarily of activity in loans, were $1.5 million and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively. Net cash provided by financing activities, consisting of activity in deposit accounts, was $16.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, and net cash used in financing activities was $893,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively. The increase was due to total deposits increasing as a result of subscriptions in advance of the conversion of Central Federal to stock form.

Certificates of deposit maturing over the next 12 months totaled $12.2 million, or 54.3%, of certificates of deposit. Although we generally manage the pricing of our deposits to be competitive, management understands that if these maturing deposits are not reinvested or do not stay with Central Federal, we will be required to seek other sources of funding or rely on new certificates of deposit. If these deposits are withdrawn, it is anticipated that they would be funded with available cash or replaced with deposits from other customers. Federal Home Loan Bank or Federal Reserve Bank borrowings or proceeds from the sale of securities could also be used to replace unanticipated outflows of deposits.

Capital Management

We are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the OCC, including risk-based capital measures. The risk-based capital guidelines include both a definition of capital and a framework for calculating risk-weighted assets by assigning balance sheet assets and off-balance sheet items to broad risk categories. At December 31, 2015, we exceeded all of our regulatory capital requirements, and were considered “well capitalized” under regulatory guidelines, with Tier 1 capital to adjusted total assets ratio of 20.5%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 36.1%, a total-risk based capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 36.8% and a common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets ratio of 36.1%. Refer to Note 14 to the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements.

The capital from the offering of Central Federal Bancshares common stock in connection with the conversion of Central Federal to stock form will significantly increase our liquidity and capital resources in future periods. Over time, the initial level of liquidity will be reduced as net proceeds from the stock offering are used for general corporate purposes, including the funding of lending activities. Our financial condition and results of operations will be enhanced by the capital from the offering, resulting in increased net interest-earning assets and net interest income. However, the large increase in equity resulting from the capital raised in the offering will, initially, have an adverse impact on our return on equity, and under OCC regulations, we will not be allowed to repurchase any shares during the first year following the offering, except to fund the restricted stock awards under the equity benefit plan after its approval by shareholders, unless extraordinary circumstances exist and we receive regulatory approval.

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.    In the normal course of business, Central Federal has outstanding commitments and contingent liabilities, such as commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit, which are not included in the accompanying financial statements. Central Federal’s exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instruments is represented by the contractual or notional amount of those instruments. Central Federal has $5.6 million in unfunded commitments under lines of credit and $15,000 in standby letters of credit as of December 31, 2015. The amount of standby letters of credit was the same for the year ended December 31, 2014. However, the unfunded commitments under lines of credit were $2.6 million as of December 31, 2014. As the economy improves, management believes that borrowers are seeking additional funding which caused an increase in the unfunded commitments under lines of credit to increase by $3.0 million.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any conditions established in the contract. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Central Federal evaluates each customer’s creditworthiness on a case by case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by Central Federal upon extension of credit, is based on management credit evaluation. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment, and income producing commercial property.

Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by Central Federal to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Standby letters of credit generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. Central Federal’s policy for obtaining collateral, and the nature of such collateral, is essentially the same as that involved in making commitments to extend credit. Central Federal was not required to perform on any financial guarantees and did not incur any losses on its commitments.

Interest Rate Risk Management

As a result of our banking activities, we are exposed to interest rate risk. As a financial institution, the majority of our assets and liabilities are sensitive to changes in interest rates. Therefore, a principal part of our operations is to manage interest rate risk and limit our exposure to changes in market interest rates. We manage interest rate sensitivity of our interest-bearing liabilities and interest-earning assets in an effort to minimize the adverse effects of changes in the interest rate environment.

A major source of interest rate risk is a difference in the repricing of assets as compared to the repricing of liabilities. Deposit accounts typically react more quickly to changes in market interest rates than mortgage loans because of the shorter maturity of deposits. As a result, sharp increases in interest rates may adversely affect our earnings while decreases in interest rates may beneficially affect our earnings. We seek to reduce the potential volatility of our earnings by continually improving the matching between our asset and liability maturities and rates.

Central Federal’s goal is to manage asset and liability positions to moderate the effect of interest rate fluctuations on our earnings, while also controlling exposure to interest rate risk within policy limits approved by our board of directors. These limits and guidelines reflect Central Federal’s tolerance for interest rate risk over both short-term and long-term horizons.

Net Portfolio Value.    We currently utilize an economic value of equity analysis to review our level of interest rate risk. We measure our interest rate risk through the use of a financial model provided by an outside consulting firm. This model measures interest rate risk by capturing changes in the economic value of assets and liabilities, based on a range of assumed changes in market interest rates. Economic value represents the market value of our assets and liabilities. These analyses assess the risk of loss in market risk-sensitive instruments in the event of a sudden and sustained 100 to 400 basis point increase or a 100 basis point decrease in market interest rates with no effect given to any steps that we might take to counter the effect of that interest rate movement.

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The following table presents the change in the economic value of our equity at December 31, 2015 that would occur in the event of an immediate change in interest rates based on assumptions we consider to be reasonable, with no effect given to any steps that we might take to counteract that change.