Investar Holding Corp (Form: 8-K, Received: 03/01/2018 18:06:59)

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

___________________

FORM 8-K

___________________

CURRENT REPORT

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

Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): February 28, 2018

Investar Holding Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)




Louisiana	001-36522	27-1560715
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)	(Commission File Number)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

7244 Perkins Road

Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (225) 227-2222

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2. below):


¨	Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)


¨	Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)


¨	Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))


¨	Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company þ

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. þ

Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers

(e) Following the approval of the Board of Directors of Investar Holding Corporation (the “Company”) on February 28, 2018, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Investar Bank (the “Bank”), entered into Salary Continuation Agreements (each, a “Salary Continuation Agreement” and collectively, the “Salary Continuation Agreements”) with certain of the Company’s officers, including its named executive officers: John J. D’Angelo, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Christopher Hufft, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, and Dane Babin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of the Company (each individually an “Executive” and collectively, “Executives”). In addition, the Bank and will enter into Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreements (the “Split Dollar Agreements”) with each of the Executives. The Salary Continuation Agreements are effective February 28, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), and the Split Dollar Agreements are effective as of the date the life insurance policies referenced in such agreements are issued.

Salary Continuation Agreements

The Salary Continuation Agreements represent unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation arrangements under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Salary Continuation Agreements between the Bank and each of Messrs. D’Angelo, Hufft and Babin provide that the Executive shall receive annual payments of $200,000, $125,000, and $50,000, respectively, upon attaining the age of 65, with such payments payable monthly over a period of 120 months (10 years). Each Executive is also entitled to certain reduced payments following a termination of employment prior to attaining age 65 (other than a termination due to death or with cause), which payments will be made on the same schedule as set forth above. Messrs. D’Angelo and Hufft’s Salary Continuation Agreements provide for a lump sum payment of the normal retirement age accrual balance benefit upon a qualifying change in control. Mr. Babin’s Salary Continuation Agreement provides that any payment due in the event of an early termination is subject to vesting, with 20% of the accrual balance under the agreement vesting on each of the sixth through tenth anniversaries of the Effective Date. Mr. Babin’s agreement does not provide for payment upon a change in control, but provides for payment of the greater of (i) the accrual balance of his benefit at the time of termination, or (ii) $200,000, payable in a lump sum if he is terminated without cause or terminates for good reason following a change in control. The payment of the benefits to each Executive is subject to forfeiture if the Executive’s employment is terminated with cause, or if under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, the Executive is subject to a final removal or prohibition order issued by an appropriate federal banking agency or the Bank is in default.

Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreements

The Split Dollar Agreements provide for the division of death proceeds under certain life insurance policies owned by the Bank on the lives of each Executive with the Executive’s designated beneficiaries. The Bank has the right to exercise all incidents of ownership of each life insurance policy and maintains at all times ownership of the cash value of the insurance policies. Under each Split Dollar Agreement, if the Executive dies prior to termination of his employment with the Bank, the Executive’s designated beneficiary will be entitled to a benefit equal to the accrued liability at retirement from the Executive’s Salary Continuation Agreement limited to 100% of the Net Amount at Risk insurance portion of the proceeds. For purposes of the Split Dollar Agreements, “Net Amount at Risk” means the difference between the total death proceeds payable under the insurance policies less the aggregate cash value of the policies measured as of the date giving rise to the need for such calculation. The amount of the benefit payable under each Split Dollar Agreement may be reduced or eliminated if the Executive fails to cooperate with the Bank or the insurer with regards to the policies. In addition, no benefits will be paid if the Executive dies under circumstances that result in no coverage under the policies (such as suicide); provided, however, that the Bank will evaluate the reasons for denial and, upon advice of legal counsel and in its sole discretion, consider judicially challenging such denial.

The information included herein relating to the Salary Continuation Agreements and the Split Dollar Agreements is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual terms of the agreements, forms of which are filed as Exhibits 10.1, 10.2, 10.3 and 10.4 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated herein by reference.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits



Exhibit Number	Description of Exhibit

10.1	Salary Continuation Agreement, dated February 28, 2018, by and between Investar Bank and John D’Angelo.

10.2	Salary Continuation Agreement, dated February 28, 2018, by and between Investar Bank and Chris Hufft.

10.3	Salary Continuation Agreement, dated February 28, 2018, by and between Investar Bank and Dane Babin.

10.4	Form of Split Dollar Agreement by and between Investar Bank and each executive entering into a Salary Continuation Agreement.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.




	INVESTAR HOLDING CORPORATION

Date: March 1, 2018	By:	/s/ John J. D’Angelo
		John J. D’Angelo
		President and Chief Executive Officer

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

This SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of this 28 ^th day of February, 2018, by and between Investar Bank (the “Bank”) and John D’Angelo (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS , the Executive has contributed substantially to the success of the Bank and the Bank desires that the Executive continue in its employ,

WHEREAS , to encourage the Executive to remain an employee, the Bank is willing to provide to the Executive salary continuation benefits payable from the Bank’s general assets,

WHEREAS , none of the conditions or events included in the definition of the term “golden parachute payment” that is set forth in section 18(k)(4)(A)(ii) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act [12 U.S.C. 1828(k)(4)(A)(ii)] and in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Rule 359.1(f)(1)(ii) [12 CFR 359.1(f)(1)(ii)] currently exists or, to the best knowledge of the Bank, is contemplated insofar as the Bank is concerned, and

WHEREAS , the parties hereto intend this Agreement to be an unfunded arrangement maintained primarily to provide supplemental retirement benefits for the Executive (who is a key employee and member of a select group of management), and to be considered a top hat plan for purposes of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”). The Executive is fully advised of the Bank’s financial status.

NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing premises and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows.

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

1.1 “ Accrual Balance ” means the liability that should be accrued by the Bank under generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for the Bank’s obligation to the Executive under this Agreement, applying Financial Accounting Standards Board ASC 710-10-30 (formerly known as Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 12, as amended by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 106), and the calculation method and discount rate specified hereinafter. The Accrual Balance shall be calculated such that when it is credited with interest each month the Accrual Balance at Normal Retirement Age equals the present value of the normal retirement benefits. The discount rate means the rate used by the Plan Administrator for determining the Accrual Balance. In its sole discretion the Plan Administrator may adjust the discount rate to maintain the rate within reasonable standards according to GAAP.

1.2 “ Affiliate ” means the Bank and any other corporation or other form of entity of which the Company owns, from time to time, directly or indirectly, at least 80% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock or other equity interests.

1.3 “ Beneficiary ” means each designated person, or the estate of the deceased Executive, entitled to benefits, if any, upon the death of the Executive, determined according to Article 4.

1.4 “ Beneficiary Designation Form ” means the form established from time to time by the Plan Administrator that the Executive completes, signs, and returns to the Plan Administrator to designate one or more Beneficiaries.

1.5 “ Change in Control ” means, and shall be deemed to occur, upon the consummation of a Change in Equity Ownership, a Change in Effective Control, a Change in the Ownership of Assets or a Change by Merger. For this purpose:

(a) A “Change in Equity Ownership” means that a person or group acquires, directly or indirectly in accordance with Code Section 318, more than 50% of the aggregate fair market value or voting power of the capital stock of the Company, including for this purpose capital stock previously acquired by such person or group; provided, however, that once any person or group acquires more than 50% of the aggregate fair market value or voting power of the Company’s capital stock, additional acquisitions by such person or group shall not be deemed to constitute an additional Change in Control hereunder.

(b) A “Change in Effective Control” means that a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company is replaced during any 12-month period, whether by appointment or election, without endorsement by a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of the Company then serving prior to the date of such appointment or election.

(c) A “Change in the Ownership of Assets” means that any person or group acquires, or has acquired in a series of transactions during the immediately preceding 12-month period ending on the date of the most recent acquisition, all or substantially all of the assets of the Company.

(d) A “Change by Merger” means that the Company shall consummate a merger or consolidation or similar transaction with another corporation or entity, unless as a result of such transaction, more than 50% of the then outstanding voting securities of the surviving or resulting corporation or entity shall be owned in the aggregate by the former shareholders of the Company, and the voting securities of the surviving or resulting corporation or entity are owned in substantially the same proportion as the common stock of the Company was beneficially owned before such transaction.

Notwithstanding the above, a Change in Control shall occur for purposes of this Agreement only if such event also constitutes a “change in the ownership,” “change in effective control,” and/or a “change in the ownership of a substantial portion of assets” of the Company as those terms are defined under Treasury Regulation §1.409A-3(i)(5).

1.6 “ Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and rules, regulations, and guidance of general application issued by the Department of the Treasury under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

1.7 “ Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company.

1.8 “ Company ” means Investar Holding Corporation, a Louisiana corporation and parent of the Bank.

1.9 “ Disability ” means, because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that can be expected to result in death or that can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months, (a) the Executive is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity, or (b) the Executive is receiving income replacement benefits for a period of at least three months under an accident and health plan of the employer. Medical determination of disability may be made either by the Social Security Administration or by the provider of an accident or health plan covering employees of the Bank. Upon request of the Plan Administrator, the Executive must submit proof to the Plan Administrator of the Social Security Administration’s or provider’s determination.

1.10 “ Early Termination ” means Separation from Service before Normal Retirement Age for reasons other than death, Disability, or Termination with Cause.

1.11 “ Effective Date ” means February 28, 2018.

1.12 “ Normal Retirement Age ” means age 65.

1.13 “ Plan Administrator ” or “ Administrator ” means the plan administrator described in Article 7.

1.14 “ Plan Year ” means a twelve-month period commencing on January 1 and ending on December 31 of each year. The initial Plan Year shall commence on the effective date of this Agreement.

1.15 “ Separation from Service ” means separation from service as defined in Internal Revenue Code section 409A and rules, regulations, and guidance of general application thereunder issued by the Department of the Treasury, including termination for any reason of the Executive’s service as an executive and independent contractor to the Bank and any member of a controlled group, as defined in Code section 414, other than because of a leave of absence approved by the Bank or the Executive’s death. For purposes of this Agreement, if there is a dispute about the employment status of the Executive or the date of the Executive’s Separation from Service, the Bank shall have the sole and absolute right to decide the dispute unless a Change in Control shall have occurred.

1.16 “ Termination with Cause ” and “ Cause ” shall have the same meaning specified in any effective employment or similar agreement between the Executive and the Company or the Bank. If no such agreement exists containing a definition of termination with cause, Termination with Cause means the Company or the Bank terminates the Executive’s employment because the Executive has:

(a) Committed an intentional act of fraud, embezzlement or theft in the course of employment or otherwise engaged in any intentional misconduct which is materially injurious to the financial condition or business reputation of the Company or its Affiliates;

(b) Committed intentional damage to the property of the Company and its Affiliates or committed intentional wrongful disclosure of proprietary information or confidential information, which is materially injurious to the financial condition or business reputation of the Company or its Affiliates;

(c) Been convicted with no further possibility of appeal, or entered a guilty or nolo contendere plea, for a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;

(d) Willfully and substantially refused to perform the essential duties of [his or her] position after written notice from the Company; or

(e) Intentionally, recklessly or negligently violated any material provision of any code of conduct or ethics or equivalent code or policy of the Company or the Bank that is applicable to the Executive.

The Committee, in its discretion, shall determine whether any Separation from Service is on account of Cause as defined herein, provided that no act or failure to act will be deemed “intentional” if it is due primarily to an error in judgment, but will be deemed “intentional” only if done or omitted to be done by the Executive not in good faith and without reasonable belief that [his or her] action or omission was in the best interest of the Company or an Affiliate.

ARTICLE 2

LIFETIME BENEFITS

2.1 Normal Retirement Age . Unless Separation from Service or a Change in Control occurs before Normal Retirement Age, when the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age the Bank shall pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.1 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement. If the Executive’s Separation from Service thereafter is a Termination with Cause or if this Agreement terminates under Article 5, no further benefits shall be paid.


2.1.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.1 is $200,000.


2.1.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning with the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the annual benefit to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The annual benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.

2.2 Early Termination Benefit . Unless the Executive shall have received the benefit under section 2.4 after a Change in Control, upon Early Termination the Bank shall pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.2 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement.


2.2.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.2 is calculated as the amount that fully amortizes the Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that Accrual Balance over 10 years and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator.


2.2.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.2 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.

2.3 Disability Benefit . For Separation from Service because of Disability before Normal Retirement Age, the Bank will pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.3 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement.


2.3.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.3 is calculated as the amount that fully amortizes the Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that Accrual Balance over 10 years and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator.


2.3.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.3 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.

2.4 Change in Control . If a Change in Control occurs both before Normal Retirement Age and before Separation from Service, the Bank shall pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.4 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement.


2.4.1	Amount of benefit . The benefit under this section 2.4 is the Normal Retirement Age Accrual Balance required by section 2.1.


2.4.2	Payment of benefit . The Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.4 to the Executive in a single lump sum on the day of the Change in Control. If the Executive receives the benefit under this section 2.4 because of the occurrence of a Change in Control, the Executive shall not be entitled to claim additional benefits under section 2.4 if an additional Change in Control occurs thereafter.

2.5 Lump-Sum Payout of Remaining Normal Retirement Benefit, Early Termination Benefit, or Disability Benefit When a Change in Control Occurs . If a Change in Control occurs while the Executive is receiving the Normal Retirement Age benefit under section 2.1, the Bank shall pay the remaining salary continuation benefits to the Executive in a single lump sum on the day of the Change in Control. If a Change in Control occurs after Separation from Service but while the Executive is receiving or is entitled to receive the Early Termination benefit under section 2.2 or the Disability benefit under section 2.3, the Bank shall pay the remaining salary continuation benefits to the Executive in a single lump sum three days after the Change in Control. The lump-sum payment due to the Executive as a result of a Change in Control shall be an amount equal to the Accrual Balance amount corresponding to the particular benefit when the Change in Control occurs, or the vested Accrual Balance if the Executive is receiving or entitled at Normal Retirement Age to receive the benefit under section 2.2.

2.6 Annual Benefit Statement . Within 120 days after the end of each Plan Year, the Plan Administrator shall provide or cause to be provided to the Executive an annual benefit statement showing benefits payable or potentially payable to the Executive under this Agreement. Each annual benefit statement shall supersede the previous year’s annual benefit statement. If there is a contradiction between this Agreement and the annual benefit statement concerning the amount of a particular benefit payable or potentially payable to the Executive under sections 2.2, 2.3, or 2.4 hereof, the amount of the benefit determined under this Agreement shall control.

2.7 Savings Clause Relating to Compliance with Code Section 409A . The Agreement is intended to comply with Code Section 409A and official guidance issued thereunder. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, this Agreement shall be interpreted, operated and administered in a manner consistent with this intention. If any provision of this Agreement would subject the Executive to additional tax or interest under Code Section 409A, the Bank shall reform the provision. However, the Bank shall maintain to the maximum extent practicable the original intent of the applicable provision without subjecting the Executive to additional tax or interest, and the Bank shall not be required to incur any additional compensation expense as a result of the reformed provision. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, if any payment hereunder is triggered by the Executive’s Separation from Service and the Executive is determined to be a "specified employee" as defined in Code Section 409A(a)(2)(b)(i), then such payment shall not be paid until the first day of the seventh month after the month in which the Executive’s Separation from Service occurs or, if earlier, on the Executive's death (the "Specified Employee Payment Date"). The aggregate of any payments that would otherwise have been paid before the Specified Employee Payment Date and interest on such amounts calculated based on the applicable federal rate published by the Internal Revenue Service for the month in which the Executive's Separation from Service occurs shall be paid to the Executive in a lump sum on the Specified Employee Payment Date and thereafter, any remaining payments shall be paid without delay in accordance with their original schedule.

2.8 One Benefit Only . Despite anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the Executive and Beneficiary are entitled to one benefit only under this Agreement, which shall be determined by the first event to occur that is dealt with by this Agreement. Except as provided in section 2.5 or Article 3, subsequent occurrence of events dealt with by this Agreement shall not entitle the Executive or Beneficiary to other or additional benefits under this Agreement.

ARTICLE 3

DEATH BENEFITS

3.1 Death Before Separation from Service . If the Executive dies before Separation from Service, at the Executive’s death the Executive’s Beneficiary shall be entitled to no benefits whatsoever under this Agreement.

3.2 Death after Separation from Service . If the Executive dies after Separation from Service, if Separation from Service was not a Termination with Cause, and if at death the Executive was receiving the benefit under section 2.1 or was receiving or was entitled at Normal Retirement Age to receive the benefit under sections 2.2 or 2.3, at the Executive’s death the Executive’s Beneficiary shall be entitled to an amount in cash equal to the Accrual Balance remaining at the Executive’s death, unless the Change-in-Control benefit shall have been paid to the Executive under section 2.4 or unless a Change-in-Control payout shall have occurred under section 2.5. No benefit shall be paid under this Article 3 after the Change-in-Control benefit is paid under section 2.4 or after a Change-in-Control payout occurs under section 2.5. If a benefit is payable to the Executive’s Beneficiary, the benefit shall be paid in a single lump sum 90 days after the Executive’s death. However, no benefits under this Agreement shall be paid or payable to the Executive or the Executive’s Beneficiary if this Agreement is terminated under Article 5.

ARTICLE 4

BENEFITS

4.1 Beneficiary Designations . The Executive shall have the right to designate at any time a Beneficiary to receive any benefits payable under this Agreement after the Executive’s death. The Beneficiary designated under this Agreement may be the same as or different from the beneficiary designation under any other benefit plan of the Bank in which the Executive participates.

4.2 Beneficiary Designation: Change . The Executive shall designate a Beneficiary by completing and signing the Beneficiary Designation Form and delivering it to the Plan Administrator or its designated agent. The Executive’s Beneficiary designation shall be deemed automatically revoked if the Beneficiary predeceases the Executive or if the Executive names a spouse as Beneficiary and the marriage is subsequently dissolved. The Executive shall have the right to change a Beneficiary by completing, signing, and otherwise complying with the terms of the Beneficiary Designation Form and the Plan Administrator’s rules and procedures, as in effect from time to time. Upon acceptance by the Plan Administrator of a new Beneficiary Designation Form, all Beneficiary designations previously filed shall be canceled. The Plan Administrator shall be entitled to rely on the last Beneficiary Designation Form filed by the Executive and accepted by the Plan Administrator before the Executive’s death.

4.3 Acknowledgment . No designation or change in designation of a Beneficiary shall be effective until received, accepted, and acknowledged in writing by the Plan Administrator or its designated agent.

4.4 No Beneficiary Designation . If the Executive dies without a valid beneficiary designation or if all designated Beneficiaries predecease the Executive, the Executive’s spouse shall be the designated Beneficiary. If the Executive has no surviving spouse, the benefits shall be made to the personal representative of the Executive’s estate.

4.5 Facility of Payment . If a benefit is payable to a minor, to a person declared incapacitated, or to a person incapable of handling the disposition of his or her property, the Bank may pay the benefit to the guardian, legal representative, or person having the care or custody of the minor, incapacitated person, or incapable person. The Bank may require proof of incapacity, minority, or guardianship as it may deem appropriate before distribution of the benefit. Distribution shall completely discharge the Bank from all liability for the benefit.

ARTICLE 5

GENERAL LIMITATIONS

5.1 Termination with Cause . Despite any contrary provision of this Agreement, the Bank will not pay any benefit under this Agreement and this Agreement terminates if Separation from Service is a Termination with Cause.

5.2 Removal . If the Executive is removed from office or permanently prohibited from participating in the Bank’s affairs by an order issued under section 8(e)(4) or (g)(1) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12 U.S.C. 1818(e)(4) or (g)(1), all obligations of the Bank under this Agreement shall terminate as of the effective date of the order, and the Split Dollar Life Insurance Agreement and Endorsement between the Executive and the Bank dated as of the date hereof also shall terminate as of the effective date of the order.

5.3 Default . Despite any contrary provision of this Agreement, if the Bank is in “default” or “in danger of default,” as those terms are defined in section 3(x) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, 12 U.S.C. 1813(x), all obligations under this Agreement shall terminate.

5.4 FDIC Open-Bank Assistance . All obligations under this Agreement shall terminate, except to the extent determined that continuation of the contract is necessary for the continued operation of the Bank, if the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation enters into an agreement to provide assistance to or on behalf of the Bank under the authority contained in section 13(c) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. 12 U.S.C. 1823(c). Any rights of the parties that have already vested shall not be affected by such action, however.

ARTICLE 6

CLAIMS AND REVIEW PROCEDURES

6.1 Claims Procedure . The Bank will notify any person or entity that makes a claim for benefits under this Agreement (the “Claimant”) in writing, within 90 days after receiving Claimant’s written application for benefits, of his or her eligibility or noneligibility for benefits under the Agreement. If the Plan Administrator determines that the Claimant is not eligible for benefits or full benefits, the notice will state (a) the specific reasons for denial, (b) a specific reference to the provisions of the Agreement on which the denial is based, (c) a description of any additional information or material necessary for the Claimant to perfect his or her claim, and a description of why it is needed, and (d) an explanation of the Agreement’s claims review procedure and other appropriate information concerning steps to be taken if the Claimant wishes to have the claim reviewed. If the Plan Administrator determines that there are special circumstances requiring additional time to make a decision, the Bank will notify the Claimant of the special circumstances and the date by which a decision is expected to be made, and may extend the time for up to an additional 90 days.

6.2 Review Procedure . If the Claimant is determined by the Plan Administrator not to be eligible for benefits, or if the Claimant believes that he or she is entitled to greater or different benefits, the Claimant will have the opportunity to have his or her claim reviewed by the Bank by filing a petition for review with the Bank within 60 days after receipt of the notice issued by the Bank. The Claimant’s petition must state the specific reasons the Claimant believes entitle him or her to benefits or to greater or different benefits. Within 60 days after receipt by the Bank of the petition, the Plan Administrator will give the Claimant (and counsel, if any) an opportunity to present his or her position verbally or in writing, and the Claimant (or counsel) will have the right to review the pertinent documents. The Plan Administrator will notify the Claimant of the Plan Administrator’s decision in writing within the 60-day period, stating specifically the basis of its decision, written in a manner to be understood by the Claimant, and the specific provisions of the Agreement on which the decision is based. If, because of the need for a hearing, the 60-day period is not sufficient, the decision may be deferred for up to another 60 days at the election of the Plan Administrator, but notice of this deferral will be given to the Claimant.

ARTICLE 7

ADMINISTRATION OF AGREEMENT

7.1 Plan Administrator Duties . This Agreement shall be administered by a Plan Administrator consisting of the Board of Directors of Investar Holding Corporation (the “Board”) or such committee thereof or person as the Board shall appoint. The Executive may not be a member of the Plan Administrator. The Plan Administrator shall have the discretion and authority to (a) make, amend, interpret, and enforce all appropriate rules and regulations for the administration of this Agreement and (b) decide or resolve any and all questions that may arise, including interpretations of this Agreement.

7.2 Agents . In the administration of this Agreement, the Plan Administrator may employ agents and delegate to them such administrative duties as it sees fit (including acting through a duly appointed representative) and may from time to time consult with counsel, who may be counsel to the Bank.

7.3 Binding Effect of Decisions . The decision or action of the Plan Administrator about any question arising out of the administration, interpretation, and application of the Agreement and the rules and regulations promulgated hereunder shall be final and conclusive and binding upon all persons having any interest in the Agreement. No Executive or Beneficiary shall be deemed to have any right, vested or nonvested, regarding the continued use of any previously adopted assumptions, including but not limited to the discount rate and calculation method employed in the determination of the Accrual Balance.

7.4 Indemnity of Plan Administrator . The Bank shall indemnify and hold harmless the members of the Plan Administrator against any and all claims, losses, damages, expenses, or liabilities arising from any action or failure to act with respect to this Agreement, except in the case of willful misconduct by the Plan Administrator or any of its members.

7.5 Bank Information . To enable the Plan Administrator to perform its functions, the Bank shall supply full and timely information to the Plan Administrator on all matters relating to the date and circumstances of the retirement, Disability, death, or Separation from Service of the Executive, and such other pertinent information as the Plan Administrator may reasonably require.

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

8.1 Amendments and Termination . This Agreement may be amended solely by a written agreement signed by the Bank and by the Executive. This Agreement may be terminated by the Board or a subcommittee thereof without the Executive’s consent. Unless Article 5 provides that the Executive is not entitled to payment, the Bank must pay the Accrual Balance in a single lump sum to the Executive if the Bank Terminates this Agreement but only if the termination and payment are carried out consistent with the terms of the Code Section 409A plan-termination exceptions to the prohibition against accelerated payment [Rule 1.409A-3(j)(4)(ix)]. Consistent with Code section 409A, the lump-sum termination payment will be made to the Executive on the first day of the thirteenth month after the month in which the Bank terminates this Agreement.

8.2 Binding Effect . This Agreement shall bind the Executive and the Bank and their beneficiaries, survivors, executors, successors, administrators, and transferees.

8.3 No Guarantee of Employment . This Agreement is not an employment policy or contract. It does not give the Executive the right to remain an employee of the Bank nor does it interfere with the Bank’s right to discharge the Executive. It also does not require the Executive to remain an employee or interfere with the Executive’s right to terminate employment at any time.

8.4 Non-Transferability . Benefits under this Agreement may not be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, attached, or encumbered.

8.5 Successors; Binding Agreement . By an assumption agreement in form and substance satisfactory to the Executive, the Bank shall require any successor (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the Bank’s business or assets to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent the Bank would be required to perform this Agreement had no succession occurred.

8.6 Tax Withholding . The Bank shall withhold any taxes that are required to be withheld from the benefits provided under this Agreement.

8.7 Applicable Law . The Agreement and all rights hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of Louisiana, except to the extent preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

8.8 Unfunded Arrangement . The Executive and Beneficiary are general unsecured creditors of the Bank for the payment of benefits under this Agreement. The benefits represent the mere promise by the Bank to pay benefits. The rights to benefits are not subject to anticipation, alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, encumbrance, attachment, or garnishment by creditors. Any insurance on the Executive’s life is a general asset of the Bank to which the Executive and Beneficiary have no preferred or secured claim.

8.9 Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Bank and the Executive concerning the subject matter. No rights are granted to the Executive under this Agreement other than those specifically set forth.

8.10 Severability . If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect any other provision of this Agreement not held invalid, and to the full extent consistent with law each such other provision shall continue in full force and effect. If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid in part, such invalidity shall not affect the remainder of such provision not held invalid, and to the full extent consistent with law the remainder of such provision, together with all other provisions of this Agreement, shall continue in full force and effect.

8.11 Headings . Headings are included herein solely for convenience of reference and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.

8.12 Notices . All notices, requests, demands and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if delivered by hand or mailed, certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, with postage prepaid, to the following addresses or to such other address as either party may designate by like notice. If to the Bank, notice shall be given to the Board of Directors, Investar Holding Corporation, 10500 Coursey Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, or to such other or additional person or persons as the Bank shall have designated to the Executive in writing. If to the Executive, notice shall be given to the Executive at the Executive’s address appearing on the Bank’s records, or to such other or additional person or persons as the Executive shall have designated to the Bank in writing.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Executive and a duly authorized Bank officer have executed this Salary Continuation Agreement as of the date first written above.



EXECUTIVE:
John D'Angelo

BANK:
INVESTAR BANK

By:

Title:

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

I designate the following as beneficiary of any death benefits under this Salary Continuation Agreement:



Primary:


Contingent:

Note: To name a trust as beneficiary, please provide the name of the trustee(s) and the exact name and date of the trust agreement.

I understand that I may change these beneficiary designations by filing a new written designation with the Bank. I further understand that the designations will be automatically revoked if the beneficiary predeceases me, or, if I have named my spouse as beneficiary and our marriage is subsequently dissolved.



Signature:

Date:		, 2018

Accepted by the Bank this _________ day of ____________________________, 2018



By:

Title:

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

This SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of this 28 ^th day of February, 2018, by and between Investar Bank (the “Bank”) and Christopher Hufft (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS , the Executive has contributed substantially to the success of the Bank and the Bank desires that the Executive continue in its employ,

WHEREAS , to encourage the Executive to remain an employee, the Bank is willing to provide to the Executive salary continuation benefits payable from the Bank’s general assets,

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

1.3 “ Beneficiary ” means each designated person, or the estate of the deceased Executive, entitled to benefits, if any, upon the death of the Executive, determined according to Article 4.

1.7 “ Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company.

1.8 “ Company ” means Investar Holding Corporation, a Louisiana corporation and parent of the Bank.

1.10 “ Early Termination ” means Separation from Service before Normal Retirement Age for reasons other than death, Disability, or Termination with Cause.

1.11 “ Effective Date ” means February 28, 2018.

1.12 “ Normal Retirement Age ” means age 65.

1.13 “ Plan Administrator ” or “ Administrator ” means the plan administrator described in Article 7.

1.14 “ Plan Year ” means a twelve-month period commencing on January 1 and ending on December 31 of each year. The initial Plan Year shall commence on the effective date of this Agreement.

(c) Been convicted with no further possibility of appeal, or entered a guilty or nolo contendere plea, for a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;

(d) Willfully and substantially refused to perform the essential duties of his position after written notice from the Company; or

The Committee, in its discretion, shall determine whether any Separation from Service is on account of Cause as defined herein, provided that no act or failure to act will be deemed “intentional” if it is due primarily to an error in judgment, but will be deemed “intentional” only if done or omitted to be done by the Executive not in good faith and without reasonable belief that his action or omission was in the best interest of the Company or an Affiliate.

ARTICLE 2

LIFETIME BENEFITS


2.1.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.1 is $125,000.


2.1.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning with the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the annual benefit to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The annual benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.


2.2.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.2 is calculated as the amount that fully amortizes the Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that Accrual Balance over 10 years and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator.


2.2.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.2 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.


2.3.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.3 is calculated as the amount that fully amortizes the Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that Accrual Balance over 10 years and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator.


2.3.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.3 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.


2.4.1	Amount of benefit. The benefit under this section 2.4 is the Normal Retirement Age Accrual Balance required by section 2.1.


2.4.2	Payment of benefit. The Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.4 to the Executive in a single lump sum on the day of the Change in Control. If the Executive receives the benefit under this section 2.4 because of the occurrence of a Change in Control, the Executive shall not be entitled to claim additional benefits under section 2.4 if an additional Change in Control occurs thereafter.

ARTICLE 3

DEATH BENEFITS

ARTICLE 4

BENEFICIARIES

ARTICLE 5

GENERAL LIMITATIONS

ARTICLE 6

CLAIMS AND REVIEW PROCEDURES

ARTICLE 7

ADMINISTRATION OF AGREEMENT

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

8.2 Binding Effect . This Agreement shall bind the Executive and the Bank and their beneficiaries, survivors, executors, successors, administrators, and transferees.

8.4 Non-Transferability . Benefits under this Agreement may not be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, attached, or encumbered.

8.6 Tax Withholding . The Bank shall withhold any taxes that are required to be withheld from the benefits provided under this Agreement.

8.7 Applicable Law . The Agreement and all rights hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of Louisiana, except to the extent preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

8.11 Headings . Headings are included herein solely for convenience of reference and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.

In Witness Whereof , the Executive and a duly authorized Bank officer have executed this Salary Continuation Agreement as of the date first written above.



EXECUTIVE:
Chris Hufft

BANK:
INVESTAR BANK

By:

Title:

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

Investar Bank

I designate the following as beneficiary of any death benefits under this Salary Continuation Agreement:



Primary:


Contingent:

Note: To name a trust as beneficiary, please provide the name of the trustee(s) and the exact name and date of the trust agreement.



Signature:

Date:		, 2018

Accepted by the Bank this _________ day of ____________________________, 2018



By:

Title:

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

This SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is entered into as of this 28 ^th day of February, 2018, by and between Investar Bank (the “Bank”) and Dane Babin (the “Executive”).

WHEREAS , the Executive has contributed substantially to the success of the Bank and the Bank desires that the Executive continue in its employ,

WHEREAS , to encourage the Executive to remain an employee, the Bank is willing to provide to the Executive salary continuation benefits payable from the Bank’s general assets,

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

1.3 “ Beneficiary ” means each designated person, or the estate of the deceased Executive, entitled to benefits, if any, upon the death of the Executive, determined according to Article 4.

1.5 “ Change in Control ” means, and shall be deemed to occur upon, the consummation of a Change in Equity Ownership, a Change in Effective Control, a Change in the Ownership of Assets or a Change by Merger. For this purpose:

(a) A “Change in Equity Ownership” means that a person or group acquires, directly or indirectly in accordance with Code Section 318, more than 50% of the aggregate fair market value or voting power of the capital stock of the Company, including for this purpose capital stock previously acquired by such person or group; provided, however , that once any person or group acquires more than 50% of the aggregate fair market value or voting power of the Company’s capital stock, additional acquisitions by such person or group shall not be deemed to constitute an additional Change in Control hereunder.

1.7 “ Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company.

1.8 “ Company ” means Investar Holding Corporation, a Louisiana corporation and parent of the Bank.

1.10 “ Early Termination ” means Separation from Service before Normal Retirement Age for reasons other than death, Disability, or Termination with Cause.

1.11 “ Effective Date ” means February 28, 2018.

1.12 “ Normal Retirement Age ” means age 65.

1.13 “ Plan Administrator ” or “ Administrator ” means the plan administrator described in Article 7.

1.14 “ Plan Year ” means a twelve-month period commencing on January 1 and ending on December 31 of each year. The initial Plan Year shall commence on the effective date of this Agreement.

(c) Been convicted with no further possibility of appeal, or entered a guilty or nolo contendere plea, for a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;

(d) Willfully and substantially refused to perform the essential duties of his position after written notice from the Company; or

The Committee, in its discretion, shall determine whether any Separation from Service is on account of Cause as defined herein, provided that no act or failure to act will be deemed “intentional” if it is due primarily to an error in judgment, but will be deemed “intentional” only if done or omitted to be done by the Executive not in good faith and without reasonable belief that his action or omission was in the best interest of the Company or an Affiliate.

1.17 “ Voluntary Termination with Good Reason ” means a voluntary Separation from Service by the Executive within 24 months after a Change in Control if the following conditions (a) and (b) are satisfied:

(a) The Executive shall have “Good Reason” to separate from service if any of the following occur without the Executive’s advance written consent within 24 months after a Change in Control –

(i) a material diminution of the Executive’s base salary,

(ii) a material diminution of the Executive’s authority, duties, or responsibilities,

(iii) a material diminution in the authority, duties, or responsibilities of the supervisor to whom the Executive is required to report,

(iv) a material diminution in the budget over which the Executive retains authority,

(v) a material change in the geographic location at which the Executive must perform services for the Bank, or

(vi) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by the Bank of the agreement under which the Executive provides services to the Bank.

(b) The Executive must give notice to the Bank of the existence of one or more of the conditions described in clause (a) within 90 days after the initial existence of the condition, and the Bank has 30 days thereafter to remedy the condition. In addition, the Executive’s voluntary termination because of the existence of one or more of the conditions described in clause (a) must occur within 24 months after the earlier of the initial existence of the condition or the Change in Control.

ARTICLE 2

LIFETIME BENEFITS

2.1 Normal Retirement Age . Unless Separation from Service occurs before Normal Retirement Age, when the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age the Bank shall pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.1 instead

of any other benefit under this Agreement. If the Executive’s Separation from Service thereafter is a Termination with Cause or if this Agreement terminates under Article 5, no further benefits shall be paid.


2.1.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.1 is $50,000.


2.1.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning with the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the annual benefit to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The annual benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.

2.2 Early Termination Benefit . Unless section 2.4 applies, upon Early Termination, the Bank will pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.2 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement. No benefit is payable under this Agreement if the Executive’s employment terminates with Cause or if this Agreement terminates under Article 5. Neither the Bank nor the Executive may elect in the 24-month period after a Change in Control between the benefit under this section 2.2 versus the benefit under section 2.4. If the Executive’s Separation from Service within 24 months after a Change in Control is an involuntary termination without Cause or a Voluntary Termination with Good Reason, no benefit is payable under this section 2.2 and the Executive is instead entitled to the benefit under section 2.4 or, if the Executive first attained Normal Retirement Age, section 2.1.

2.2.1

Amount of benefit . The benefit under this section 2.2 is the fixed annual amount that fully amortizes the vested Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that vested Accrual Balance over 120 months and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator. For purposes of this Early Termination benefit, the Executive will be 20% vested in the Accrual Balance on the sixth anniversary of the Effective Date if the Executive’s Separation from Service or death does not occur before the eleventh anniversary. Until the Executive is 100% vested or, if sooner, until the Executive’s Separation from Service or death, the Executive becomes vested in the Accrual Balance in additional 20% increments annually at the 7 ^th through 10 ^th anniversaries of the Effective Date.


2.2.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.2 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.


2.3.1	Amount of benefit . The annual benefit under this section 2.3 is calculated as the amount that fully amortizes the Accrual Balance existing at the end of the month immediately before the month in which Separation from Service occurs, amortizing that Accrual Balance over 10 years and taking into account interest at the discount rate or rates established by the Plan Administrator.


2.3.2	Payment of benefit . Beginning the month immediately after the month in which the Executive attains Normal Retirement Age, the Bank shall pay the benefit under this section 2.3 to the Executive in equal monthly installments on the first day of each month. The benefit shall be paid to the Executive for 10 years.

2.4 Change in Control . If the Executive’s Separation from Service occurs before Normal Retirement Age, and such Separation from Service is an involuntary termination without Cause or a Voluntary Termination with Good Reason, in either case within 24 months after a Change in Control, the Bank will pay to the Executive the benefit described in this section 2.4 instead of any other benefit under this Agreement. No benefit is payable under this Agreement if the Executive’s employment terminates with Cause or if this Agreement terminates under Article 5. Neither the Bank nor the Executive may elect in the 24-month period after a Change in Control between the benefit under this section 2.4 versus the Early Termination benefit under section 2.2. If the Executive’s Separation from Service within 24 months after a Change in Control is an involuntary termination without Cause or a Voluntary Termination with Good Reason, no benefit is payable under section 2.2 and the Executive is instead entitled to the benefit under this section 2.4. But if the Executive has attained Normal Retirement Age when Separation from Service within 24 months after a Change in Control occurs, whether Separation from Service is voluntary or involuntary for any

reason other than Termination with Cause, the Executive is entitled solely to the benefit provided by section 2.1, not this section 2.4.

2 . 4 . 1 Amount of benefit . The benefit under this section 2.4 is the greater of the Accrual Balance required to be maintained by the Bank on the date on which the Executive’s Separation from Service occurs or $200,000.

2 . 4 . 2 Payment of benefit . The Bank will pay the benefit under this section 2.4 to the Executive in a single lump sum on the date of the Executive’s Separation from Service, except as otherwise required under section 2.7.

ARTICLE 3

DEATH BENEFITS

Executive’s Beneficiary shall be entitled to an amount in cash equal to the Accrual Balance remaining at the Executive’s death, unless the Change-in-Control benefit shall have been paid to the Executive under section 2.4 or unless a Change-in-Control payout shall have occurred under section 2.5. No benefit shall be paid under this Article 3 after the Change-in-Control benefit is paid under section 2.4 or after a Change-in-Control payout occurs under section 2.5. If a benefit is payable to the Executive’s Beneficiary, the benefit shall be paid in a single lump sum 90 days after the Executive’s death. However, no benefits under this Agreement shall be paid or payable to the Executive or the Executive’s Beneficiary if this Agreement is terminated under Article 5.

ARTICLE 4

BENEFICIARIES

ARTICLE 5

GENERAL LIMITATIONS

ARTICLE 6

CLAIMS AND REVIEW PROCEDURES

ARTICLE 7

ADMINISTRATION OF AGREEMENT

7.1 Plan Administrator Duties . This Agreement shall be administered by a Plan Administrator consisting of the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) or such committee thereof or person as the Board shall appoint. The Executive may not be a member of the Plan Administrator. The Plan Administrator shall have the discretion and authority to (a) make, amend, interpret, and enforce all appropriate rules and regulations for the administration of this Agreement and (b) decide or resolve any and all questions that may arise, including interpretations of this Agreement.

ARTICLE 8

MISCELLANEOUS

8.2 Binding Effect . This Agreement shall bind the Executive and the Bank and their beneficiaries, survivors, executors, successors, administrators, and transferees.

8.4 Non-Transferability . Benefits under this Agreement may not be sold, transferred, assigned, pledged, attached, or encumbered.

8.6 Tax Withholding . The Bank shall withhold any taxes that are required to be withheld from the benefits provided under this Agreement.

8.7 Applicable Law . The Agreement and all rights hereunder shall be governed by the laws of the State of Louisiana, except to the extent preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

8.11 Headings . Headings are included herein solely for convenience of reference and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Executive and a duly authorized Bank officer have executed this Salary Continuation Agreement as of the date first written above.



EXECUTIVE:
Dane Babin

BANK:
INVESTAR BANK

By:

Title:

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION

INVESTAR BANK

SALARY CONTINUATION AGREEMENT

Investar Bank

I designate the following as beneficiary of any death benefits under this Salary Continuation Agreement:



Primary:


Contingent:

Note: To name a trust as beneficiary, please provide the name of the trustee(s) and the exact name and date of the trust agreement.



Signature:

Date:		, 2018

Accepted by the Bank this _________ day of ____________________________, 2018



By:

Title:

Investar Bank

SPLIT DOLLAR LIFE INSURANCE AGREEMENT

Economic Benefit Regime – Endorsement Method

THIS SPLIT DOLLAR LIFE INSURANCE AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into this 28th day of February, 2018, by and between Investar Bank (the “Bank”), a banking corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Louisiana, and (the “Insured”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Insured is employed by the Bank; and

WHEREAS , the Bank highly values the efforts, abilities, and accomplishments of the Insured and, as an inducement for the Insured’s continued employment, wishes to assist the Insured with his personal insurance program; and

WHEREAS , the Bank has determined that this assistance can best be provided under a “split-dollar” arrangement as defined in Treasury Regulations §1.61-22(b)(1)&(2); and

WHEREAS , the Bank wishes to provide life insurance protection for the Insured’s family in the event of the Insured’s death, under policies of life insurance insuring the life of the Insured (the “Policy” or the “Policies”), which are described in Exhibit A attached hereto, and which were or are being issued by Great-West Life & Ann, Guardian Life Ins Co of Amer, and New York Life Ins Co (the “Insurer” or “Insurers”); with such additions and deletions as may be made from time to time by amendments to Exhibit A; and

WHEREAS , the Bank is willing to pay the premiums due on the Policies as an additional employment benefit for the Insured, on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth; and

WHEREAS , the Bank is the sole owner of the Policies and elects to endorse a portion of the death benefit of the Policies to the Insured.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual undertakings set forth in this Agreement, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Bank and the Insured agree as follows:

ARTICLE I

“Definitions”

1.1 Refer to Policy contracts for the definitions of any terms in this Agreement that are not defined herein. If the definition of a term in a Policy is inconsistent with the definition of a term in this Agreement, then the definition of the term as set forth in this Agreement shall supersede and replace the definition of the terms as set forth in the Policy.

ARTICLE II

“Purchase of Policies”

2.1 The parties hereto have taken or will take all necessary action to cause the Insurers to issue the Policies, and shall take any further action which may be necessary to cause the Policies to conform to the provisions of this Agreement. The parties hereto agree that the Policies shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and of the endorsement to the Policies filed with the Insurers.

ARTICLE III

“Policy Title and Ownership”

3.1 Title and ownership of the Policies shall reside in the Bank for its use and for the use of the Insured, all in accordance with this Agreement. The Bank alone may, to the extent of its interest, exercise the right to borrow or withdraw on the Policy cash values. Where the Bank and the Insured (or assignee, with the consent of the Insured) mutually agree to exercise the right to increase the coverage under the subject Policy, then, in such event, the rights, duties and benefits of the parties to such increased coverage shall continue to be subject to the terms of this Agreement.

3.2 The Bank, at its sole discretion, shall have the right to determine the face amount of each Policy purchased on the Insured and shall have the right to determine whether the Policies are term, universal or whole life.

ARTICLE IV

“Beneficiary”

4.1 Beneficiary Designation. The Insured shall have the right and power to designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries to receive the Insured’s share of the proceeds payable upon the death of the Insured and to elect and change a payment option for such beneficiary, subject to any right or interest the Bank may have in such proceeds, as provided in this Agreement. The Insured shall have the right to name such beneficiary at any time prior to the Insured’s death and submit it to the Plan Administrator (or Plan Administrator’s representative) on the written form provided. The Insured’s beneficiary designation shall be deemed automatically revoked if the Insured names a spouse as beneficiary and the marriage is subsequently dissolved.

4.2 Beneficiary Acknowledgement. Once received and acknowledged by the Plan Administrator, the form shall be effective. The Insured may change a beneficiary designation at any time by submitting a new form to the Plan Administrator. Any such change shall follow the same rules as for the original beneficiary designation and shall automatically supersede the existing beneficiary form on file with the Plan Administrator. Upon the acceptance by the Bank of a new beneficiary form, all previously filed beneficiary forms shall be cancelled. The Bank shall be entitled to rely on the last beneficiary form filed by the Insured and accepted by the Bank prior to the Insured’s death.

4.3 No Beneficiary Designation. If the Insured dies without a valid beneficiary designation on file with the Plan Administrator, or if all designated beneficiaries predecease the Insured, then the Insured’s surviving spouse shall be the designated beneficiary. If the Insured has no surviving spouse, the benefits shall be made payable to the Insured’s estate.

4.4 Facility of Payment. If the Plan Administrator determines in its discretion that a benefit is to be paid to a minor, to a person declared incompetent, or to a person incapable of handling the disposition of that person’s property, the Plan Administrator may direct distribution of such benefit to the guardian, legal representative or person having the care or custody of such minor, incompetent person or incapable person. The Plan Administrator may require proof of incompetence, minority or guardianship as it may deem appropriate prior to distribution of the benefit. Any distribution of a benefit shall be a distribution for the account of the Insured and the beneficiary, as the case may be, and shall be a complete discharge of any liability under the Agreement for such distribution amount.

ARTICLE V

“Premium Payment and Taxable Benefit”

5.1 Premium Payment. The Bank shall pay an amount equal to the planned premiums and any other premium payments that might become necessary to keep the Policies in force as determined by the Insurers. Notwithstanding the forgoing, the Bank shall have the absolute and sole right to terminate or surrender the Policies.

5.2 Taxable Benefit. The Bank shall determine the economic benefit attributable to the Insured based on the life insurance premium factor for the Insured’s age multiplied by the amount of current life insurance protection payable to the Insured’s beneficiary. The “life insurance premium factor” is the minimum amount required to be imputed under Treasury Regulation §1.61-22(d)(3)(ii) or any subsequent applicable authority.

5.3 Imputed Income. The Bank shall impute the economic benefit to the Insured on an annual basis, by adding the economic benefit to the Insured’s W-2, or if applicable, Form 1099.

ARTICLE VI

“Ownership of the Cash Surrender Value of the Policies”

6.1 The Bank shall at all times be entitled to one hundred percent (100%) of each Policy’s cash value, as that term is defined in the Policy contract, less any Policy loans and unpaid interest or cash withdrawals previously incurred by the Bank. Such cash value shall be determined as of the date of surrender or death as the case may be.

ARTICLE VII

“Rights of Insured or Assignees”

7.1 The Insured may not, without the written consent of the Bank, assign to any individual, trust or other organization, any right, title or interest in the subject Policies nor any rights, options, privileges or duties created under this Agreement, other than the right to name a beneficiary(ies) from time to time.

ARTICLE VIII

“Limitations on Bank’s Rights in Policies”

8.1 Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary, the Bank shall have the right to sell or surrender a Policy without terminating this Agreement, provided (i) the Bank replaces the Policy with a comparable life insurance policy or arrangement that provides the benefit provided under this Agreement and (ii) the Bank and the Insured (who will not unreasonably withhold his signature) execute a new Policy endorsement for said comparable coverage arrangement, at which time all references to “Policy” hereunder shall refer to such replacement coverage arrangement. Without limitation, the Policies at all times shall be the exclusive property of the Bank and shall be subject to the claims of the Bank’s creditors.

ARTICLE IX

“Policy Loans”

9.1 The Bank may pledge or assign the Policies, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, for the sole purpose of securing a loan from the Insurer or from a third party. Interest charges on such loan shall be paid by the Bank. If the Bank so encumbers the Policies, other than by a Policy loan from the Insurer, then, upon the death of the Insured, the Bank shall promptly take all action necessary to secure the release or discharge of such encumbrance.

ARTICLE X

“Division of Death Proceeds”

10.1 Insured’s Death Benefit. The Insured’s Death Benefit shall mean, upon the death of the Insured while this Agreement is in force, the Insured’s beneficiary shall be entitled to an amount of aggregate Policy death proceeds equal to one million six hundred eighty-seven thousand sixty six ($1,687,066.00) limited to one hundred percent (100%) of the Net Amount at Risk insurance portion of the proceeds. For purposes of this Agreement, “Net Amount at Risk” will mean the difference between the total death proceeds payable under the Policies less the aggregate cash value of the Policies measured as of the date giving rise to the need for such calculation. The receipt of this amount by the beneficiary shall constitute satisfaction of the Insured’s rights under this Agreement.

10.2 Bank’s Benefit. Upon the death of the Insured, the Bank shall be entitled to receive the remainder of the aggregate Policy death proceeds not payable under Section 10.1 above.

10.3 Benefit Paid by Insurer. The benefit payable to the Insured’s beneficiary shall be paid solely by the Insurer from the proceeds of the Policies on the life of the Insured. In no event shall the Bank be obligated to pay a death benefit under this Agreement from its general funds. Should an Insurer refuse or be unable to pay death proceeds endorsed to Insured under the express terms of this Agreement, or should the Bank cancel the Policies for any reason, neither the Insured nor any beneficiary shall be entitled to a death benefit.

10.4 Suicide or Misstatement. The amount of the benefit payable to the Insured’s beneficiary may be reduced or eliminated if Insured fails or refuses to take a physical examination, to truthfully and completely supply such information or complete any forms as may be required by the Bank or Insurer, or otherwise fails to cooperate with the requests of the Bank or the Insurer, or if the Insured dies under circumstances such that a Policy does not pay a full death benefit, e.g., in the case of suicide within the exclusionary period of the Policy; provided, however the Bank shall evaluate the reason for the denial, and upon advice of legal counsel and in its sole discretion, consider judicially challenging any denial.

ARTICLE XI

“Termination of the Agreement”

11.1 This Agreement shall terminate upon the occurrence of any one of the following:

(1) The total cessation of the business of the Bank;

(2) The bankruptcy, receivership or dissolution of the Bank;

(3) The termination of the Insured’s employment;

(4) While the Insured is living by written notice thereof by either the Bank or the Insured to the other;

(5) Surrender, lapse, or other termination of the Policies by the Bank; or

(6) Upon distribution of the death benefit proceeds in accordance with Article X.

Upon the termination of this Agreement, the Bank may make such disposition of the Policies as it determines to be appropriate. Insured will have no rights in such Policies or the death benefit proceeds thereof, if this Agreement is terminated.

ARTICLE XII

“Insurer Not a Party”

12.1 The Insurers shall be fully discharged from their obligations under the Policies by payment of the Policy death benefits to the beneficiary or beneficiaries named in the Policies, subject to the terms and conditions of the Policies. In no event shall an Insurer be considered a party to this Agreement, or any modification or amendment hereof, and none of the provisions herein shall in any way be construed as enlarging, changing, varying or in any other way affecting the obligations of the Insurer as expressly provided in the Policies, except insofar as the provisions hereof are made a part of the Policies by the beneficiary designation executed by the Bank and filed with the Insurer in connection herewith.

ARTICLE XIII

“Administration”

13.1 Plan Administrator . This Agreement shall be administered by the Bank’s board of directors or any subset of the board at the pleasure of its Chairman (the “Plan Administrator”).

13.2 Plan Administrator Duties. The Plan Administrator shall have the discretion and authority to: (i) make, amend, interpret and enforce all appropriate rules and regulations for the administration of this Agreement and (ii) decide or resolve any and all questions, including interpretations of this Agreement, as may arise in connection with this Agreement.

13.3 Binding Effect of Decisions. Any decision or action of the Plan Administrator with respect to any question arising out of or in connection with the administration, interpretation, and application of this Agreement and

the rules and regulations promulgated hereunder shall be final and conclusive and binding upon all persons having any interest in this Agreement.

13.4 Indemnity of Plan Administrator. The Bank shall indemnify and hold harmless the members of the Plan Administrator, and those to whom management and operation responsibilities of the plan have been delegated, against any and all claims, losses, damages, expenses or liabilities arising from any action or failure to act with respect to this Agreement, except in the case of willful misconduct by the Plan Administrator or any of its members.

ARTICLE XIV

“Claims and Review Procedures”

14.1 Written Claim . A person who believes that he or she is being denied a benefit to which he or she is entitled under this Agreement (“Claimant”) may file a written request for such benefit with the Plan Administrator, setting forth his or her claim. The request must be addressed to the Bank at its then principal place of business.

14.2 Timing of Response . Upon receipt of a claim, the Plan Administrator shall advise the Claimant that a reply will be forthcoming within ninety (90) days and shall, in fact, deliver such reply within such period. The Plan Administrator may, however, extend the reply period for an additional ninety (90) days for reasonable cause. If the claim is denied in whole or in part, the Plan Administrator shall adopt a written opinion, using language calculated to be understood by the Claimant, setting forth:

(1) The specific reason or reasons for such denial;

(2) The specific reference to pertinent provisions of this Agreement on which such denial is based;

(3) A description of any additional material or information necessary for the Claimant to perfect his or her claim and an explanation why such material or such information is necessary;

(4) Appropriate information as to the steps to be taken if the Claimant wishes to submit the claim for review; and

(5) The time limits for requesting a review under Section 14.3 and for review under Section 14.4 hereof.

14.3 Request for Review . Within sixty (60) days after the receipt by the Claimant of the written opinion described in Section 14.2, the Claimant may request in writing that the determination of the Plan Administrator be reviewed. Such request must be addressed to the Bank, at its then principal place of business. The Claimant or his or her duly authorized representative may, but need not, review the pertinent documents and submit issues and comments in writing for consideration by the Plan Administrator. If the Claimant does not request a review of the Plan Administrator’s determination within such sixty (60) day period, he or she shall be barred and estopped from challenging the Plan Administrator’s determination.

14.4 Review of Decision . The Plan Administrator will review its determination within sixty (60) days after receipt of a request for review. After considering all materials presented by the Claimant, the Plan Administrator will render a written opinion, written in a manner calculated to be understood by the Claimant, setting forth the specific reasons for the decision and containing specific references to the pertinent provisions of this Agreement on which the decision is based. If special circumstances require that the sixty (60) day time period be extended, the Plan Administrator will so notify the Claimant and will render the decision as soon as possible, but no later than one hundred twenty (120) days after receipt of the request for review.

ARTICLE XV

“Amendment”

15.1 This Agreement may not be amended, altered, or modified, except by a written instrument signed by the parties hereto, or their respective successors or assigns, and may not be otherwise terminated except as provided herein.

ARTICLE XVI

“Miscellaneous”

16.1 Binding Effect . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Bank and its successors and assigns, and upon the Insured, the Insured’s successors, assigns, heirs, executors, administrators and beneficiaries.

16.2 No Guarantee of Employment . This Agreement is not an employment policy or contract. It does not give the Insured the right to remain an employee of the Bank, nor does it interfere with the Bank’s right to discharge the Insured. It also does not require the Insured to remain an Insured nor interfere with the Insured’s right to terminate employment at any time.

16.3 Notices . Any notice, consent or demand required or permitted to be given under the provisions of this Agreement shall be in writing, and shall be signed by the party giving or making the same. If such notice, consent or demand is mailed to a party hereto, it shall be sent by United States certified mail, postage prepaid, addressed to such party’s last known address as shown on the records of the Bank. The date of such mailing shall be deemed the date of notice, consent or demand.

16.4 Applicable Law . This Agreement and the rights of the parties hereunder, shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of the State of Louisiana, except to the extent preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

16.5 Gender . Whenever in this Agreement words are used in the masculine or neutral gender, they shall be read and construed as in the masculine, feminine or neutral gender, whenever they should so apply.

16.6 No Third Party Beneficiaries . The benefits of this Agreement shall not inure to any third party. This Agreement shall not be construed as creating any rights, claims, or cause of action against the Bank or any of its officers, directors, agents, or employees in favor of any person or entity other than the Insured.

16.7 Severability. If any one or more of the provisions hereof is declared invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not in any way be affected or impaired, and that invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability in one jurisdiction shall not affect the validity, legality, or enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof.

16.8 Entire Agreement . This Agreement, along with the Insured’s beneficiary designation form, constitutes the entire agreement between the Bank and the Insured as to the subject matter hereof. No rights are granted to the Insured under this Agreement other than those specifically set forth herein.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement this _______ day of _____________________, 2018.



	EXECUTIVE:		INVESTAR BANK:

EXHIBIT A

The following life insurance Policies are subject to the attached Split-Dollar Agreement:

Insurer: Great West Life & Ann

Policy Number: ________________________________

Insurer: Guardian Life Ins Co of Amer

Policy Number: ________________________________

Insurer: New York Life Ins Co

Policy Number: ________________________________