Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 13, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Entity Registrant Name	A. H. Belo Corp
Entity Central Index Key	0001413898
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 104,562,051
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Trading Symbol	ahc
Series A [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		19,299,823
Series B [Member]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		2,469,635

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net Operating Revenue:
Advertising and marketing services	$ 143,247	$ 150,315	$ 156,790
Circulation	76,884	79,619	83,581
Printing, distribution and other	28,495	30,050	31,737
Total net operating revenue	248,626	259,984	272,108
Operating Costs and Expense:
Employee compensation and benefits	105,966	104,009	120,818
Other production, distribution and operating costs	114,594	119,830	125,829
Newsprint, ink and other supplies	23,561	25,590	30,892
Depreciation	10,415	10,713	11,515
Amortization	799	906	1,349
Asset impairments	3,344	22,682
Total operating costs and expense	258,679	283,730	290,403
Operating loss	(10,053)	(23,746)	(18,295)
Other Income (Expense):
Loss from equity method investments, net			(1,065)
Other income (expense), net	13,954	2,294	(404)
Total other income (expense), net	13,954	2,294	(1,469)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes	3,901	(21,452)	(19,764)
Income tax benefit	(6,260)	(2,272)	(1,570)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	10,161	(19,180)	(18,194)
Loss from divestiture of discontinued operations			(63)
Net Income (Loss)	10,161	(19,180)	(18,257)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		130	(415)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to A. H. Belo Corporation	$ 10,161	$ (19,310)	$ (17,842)
Per Share Basis
Net income (loss) attributable to A. H. Belo Corporation, Basic and diluted	$ 0.46	$ (0.90)	$ (0.84)
Number of common shares used in the per share calculation:
Basic	21,721,497	21,620,539	21,408,940
Diluted	21,723,002	21,620,539	21,408,940

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss)	$ 10,161	$ (19,180)	$ (18,257)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax:
Actuarial gains (losses)	8,151	(810)	2,742
Amortization of actuarial (gains) losses	6,225	(56)	16,183
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	14,376	(866)	18,925
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	24,537	(20,046)	668
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		130	(415)
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to A. H. Belo Corporation	$ 24,537	$ (20,176)	$ 1,083

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 57,660	$ 80,071
Accounts receivable (net of allowance of $1,055 and $1,115 at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)	26,740	29,114
Inventories	3,171	3,386
Prepaids and other current assets	13,734	9,553
Assets held for sale	1,089
Total current assets	102,394	122,124
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	418,730	445,874
Less accumulated depreciation	(387,024)	(402,115)
Property, plant and equipment, net	31,706	43,759
Intangible assets, net	4,073	4,872
Goodwill	13,973	14,201
Deferred income taxes, net	5,355
Other assets	5,347	7,775
Total assets	162,848	192,731
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	10,303	9,036
Accrued compensation and benefits	8,243	8,657
Other accrued expense	4,275	6,318
Advance subscription payments	11,670	13,243
Total current liabilities	34,491	37,254
Long-term pension liabilities	23,038	54,843
Other post-employment benefits	2,052	2,329
Other liabilities	5,568	6,483
Total liabilities	65,149	100,909
Noncontrolling interest - redeemable		2,670
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par value; Authorized 2,000,000 shares; none issued
Treasury stock, Series A, at cost; 1,430,961 and 1,416,881 shares held at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively	(11,302)	(11,233)
Additional paid-in capital	494,989	499,552
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(24,932)	(39,308)
Accumulated deficit	(361,288)	(361,324)
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to A. H. Belo Corporation	97,699	87,918
Noncontrolling interests		1,234
Total shareholders’ equity	97,699	89,152
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	162,848	192,731
Series A [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value; Authorized 125,000,000 shares	208	207
Series B [Member]
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value; Authorized 125,000,000 shares	$ 24	$ 24

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$ 1,055	$ 1,115
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	125,000,000	125,000,000
Series A [Member]
Common stock, shares, issued	20,700,292	20,620,461
Series B [Member]
Common stock, shares, issued	2,469,755	2,472,680
Treasury Stock [Member] \| Series A [Member]
Treasury stock Series A, shares held	1,430,961	1,416,881

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - USD ($)	Common Stock [Member] Series A [Member]	Common Stock [Member] Series B [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member] Series A [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	Total
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2014			$ 227,000	$ 499,320,000		$ (8,087,000)	$ (57,367,000)	$ (308,330,000)	$ 256,000	$ 126,019,000
Beginning Balance, Shares Common Stock at Dec. 31, 2014	20,341,501	2,388,237
Beginning Balance, Treasury Stock at Dec. 31, 2014					(944,636)
Net income (loss)								(17,842,000)	(415,000)	(18,257,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss)							18,925,000			18,925,000
Capital contributions from noncontrolling interests									1,210,000	1,210,000
Treasury stock purchases, shares					(472,245)
Treasury stock purchases						(3,146,000)				(3,146,000)
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units, shares	162,274
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units			2,000	(2,000)
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises, shares	18,000
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises				71,000						71,000
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation				557,000						557,000
Share-based compensation				605,000						605,000
Redeemable non-controlling interests				(102,000)					18,000	(84,000)
Conversion of Series B to Series A, shares	728	(728)
Dividends								(7,050,000)		(7,050,000)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2015			229,000	500,449,000		(11,233,000)	(38,442,000)	(333,222,000)	1,069,000	118,850,000
Ending Balance, Shares Common Stock at Dec. 31, 2015	20,522,503	2,387,509
Ending Balance, Shares Treasury Stock at Dec. 31, 2015					(1,416,881)
Net income (loss)								(19,310,000)	77,000	(19,233,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss)							(866,000)			(866,000)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests									(308,000)	(308,000)
Capital contributions from noncontrolling interests				(396,000)					396,000
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units, shares	97,203
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units			1,000	(1,000)
Issuance of shares for stock option exercises		$ 85,926	1,000	155,000						156,000
Share-based compensation				640,000						640,000
Redeemable non-controlling interests				(1,295,000)						(1,295,000)
Conversion of Series B to Series A, shares	755	(755)
Dividends								(8,792,000)		(8,792,000)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2016			231,000	499,552,000		(11,233,000)	(39,308,000)	(361,324,000)	1,234,000	89,152,000
Ending Balance, Shares Common Stock at Dec. 31, 2016	20,620,461	2,472,680
Ending Balance, Shares Treasury Stock at Dec. 31, 2016					(1,416,881)
Net income (loss)								10,161,000		10,161,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)							14,376,000			14,376,000
Distributions to noncontrolling interests									(118,000)	(118,000)
Treasury stock purchases, shares					(14,080)
Treasury stock purchases						(69,000)				(69,000)
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units, shares	76,906
Issuance of shares for restricted stock units			1,000	(1,000)
Share-based compensation				944,000						944,000
Purchases of noncontrolling interests				(5,506,000)					$ (1,116,000)	(6,622,000)
Conversion of Series B to Series A, shares	2,925	(2,925)
Dividends								(10,125,000)		(10,125,000)
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2017			$ 232,000	$ 494,989,000		$ (11,302,000)	$ (24,932,000)	$ (361,288,000)		$ 97,699,000
Ending Balance, Shares Common Stock at Dec. 31, 2017	20,700,292	2,469,755
Ending Balance, Shares Treasury Stock at Dec. 31, 2017					(1,430,961)

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Activities
Net income (loss)	$ 10,161	$ (19,180)	$ (18,257)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
Loss from divestiture of discontinued operations			63
Depreciation and amortization	11,214	11,619	12,864
Net periodic (benefit) expense and contributions related to employee benefit plans	(17,519)	(3,538)	10,423
Equity method investment loss in excess of dividends			1,440
Share-based compensation	944	640	605
Deferred income taxes	(5,355)	(1,046)	(1,572)
(Gain) loss on investment related activity	250	200	(1,045)
(Gain) loss on disposal of fixed assets	(14,477)	(1,950)	478
Asset impairments	3,344	22,682
Other operating activities			405
Changes in working capital and other operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	2,374	2,388	2,894
Inventories, prepaids and other current assets	(3,966)	528	(144)
Other assets	2,196	(2,592)	(363)
Accounts payable	1,267	(3,700)	85
Compensation and benefit obligations	(155)	1,777	(2,133)
Other accrued expenses	(614)	1,060	(9,052)
Advanced subscription payments	(1,573)	(1,181)	(1,470)
Other post-employment benefits	(186)	(91)
Net cash provided by (used for) continuing operations	(12,095)	7,616	(4,779)
Net cash used for discontinued operations			(24)
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities	(12,095)	7,616	(4,803)
Investing Activities
Acquisition costs, net of cash acquired			(14,110)
Purchases of assets	(12,005)	(6,597)	(7,572)
Sales of assets	21,300	5,636	5,866
Other investment related proceeds			1,046
Purchases of investments	(18)	(250)	(500)
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities	9,277	(1,211)	(15,270)
Financing Activities
Purchases of noncontrolling interests	(9,231)
Dividends paid	(10,114)	(7,029)	(57,200)
Proceeds from other financing activities		2,566
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(179)	(407)
Purchases of treasury stock	(69)		(3,146)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options		156	71
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation			557
Net cash used for financing activities	(19,593)	(4,714)	(59,718)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(22,411)	1,691	(79,791)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	80,071	78,380	158,171
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 57,660	$ 80,071	$ 78,380

Significant Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Significant Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards [Abstract]

Significant Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Note 1: Significant Accounting Policies and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Description of Business. A. H. Belo Corporation and subsidiaries are referred to collectively herein as “A. H. Belo” or the “Company.” The Company, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a leading local news and information publishing company with commercial printing, distribution and direct mail capabilities, as well as expertise in emerging media and digital marketing. With a continued focus on extending the Company’s media platform, A. H. Belo delivers news and information in innovative ways to a broad spectrum of audiences with diverse interests and lifestyles. The Company publishes The Dallas Morning News (www.dallasnews.com), Texas’ leading newspaper and winner of nine Pulitzer Prizes, and various niche publications targeting specific audiences. In December 2017, the Company completed the sale of the Denton Record-Chronicle and the Company no longer owns newspaper operations in Denton, Texas.

A. H. Belo also offers digital marketing solutions through DMV Digital Holdings Company (“DMV Holdings”) and Your Speakeasy, LLC (“Speakeasy”), and provides event activation, promotion and marketing services through DMN CrowdSource LLC (“CrowdSource”).

Basis of Presentation. The consolidated financial statements included herein include adjustments of a normal recurring nature, which in the Company’s opinion, are necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial information as of and for the periods indicated. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. All dollar amounts presented herein, except share and per share amounts, are in thousands, unless the context indicates otherwise.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect (i) the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, (ii) the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist as of the date the financial statements are published, and (iii) the reported amount of net operating revenues and expenses recognized during the periods presented. Adjustments made with respect to the use of estimates often relate to improved information not previously available. Uncertainties with respect to such estimates and assumptions are inherent in the preparation of financial statements; accordingly, actual results could differ from these estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents. The Company considers all highly liquid instruments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

Accounts Receivable. Accounts receivable are reported net of a valuation reserve that represents an estimate of amounts considered uncollectible. The Company estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical write-off experience and the Company’s knowledge of the customers’ ability to pay amounts due. Accounts are written-off after all collection efforts fail; generally, after one year has expired. Expense for such uncollectible amounts is included in other production, distribution and operating costs. Bad debt expense for 2017 and 2016 was $2,109 and $1,712, respectively. Write-offs, net of recoveries and other adjustments for 2017 and 2016 were $2,169 and $2,039, respectively.

Risk Concentration. A significant portion of the Company’s customer base is concentrated within the North Texas geographical area. The Company generally extends credit to customers, and the ultimate collection of accounts receivable could be affected by the national and local economy. Management continually performs credit evaluations of its customers and may require cash in advance or other special arrangements from certain customers. The Company maintains an allowance for losses based upon the collectability of accounts receivable. Management does not believe significant credit risk exists that could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial condition, liquidity or results of operations.

Inventories. Inventories, consisting primarily of newsprint, ink and other supplies used in printing newspapers, are recorded at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is determined by the weighted average purchase price of the inventory acquired.

Property, Plant and Equipment. The Company records property, plant and equipment at cost or its fair value if acquired through a business acquisition or non-monetary exchange. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets and depreciable assets are reviewed to ensure the remaining useful life of the assets continues to be appropriate. An adjustment resulting from a change in the estimated useful life of an asset is recorded to depreciation expense on a prospective basis.

The table below sets forth property, plant and equipment by type.



	December 31,				Estimated
	2017		2016		Useful Lives
Land	$	2,220	$	11,384
Buildings and improvements		110,409		133,441	5 - 30 years
Publishing equipment		216,199		217,221	3 - 20 years
Other		88,177		81,724	3 - 10 years
Construction in process		1,725		2,104
Total		418,730		445,874
Less accumulated depreciation		(387,024)		(402,115)
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	31,706	$	43,759

Goodwill. Goodwill is recorded at the reporting unit level based on the excess fair value of prior business acquisitions over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired. Reporting units of the Company are based on its internal reporting structure and represent a reporting level below an operating segment. Unless qualitative factors allow the Company to conclude it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is tested for impairment by estimating the fair value of the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, the fair value for the reporting unit’s underlying assets and liabilities is determined and goodwill is adjusted accordingly. In determining the fair value for a reporting unit, the Company considers recent stock and sales transaction prices of peer group companies as well as the present value of expected future cash flows of the reporting unit. Significant assumptions include sales and expense growth rates, discount rates, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. These estimates could be materially impacted by changes in market conditions. The Company performs the goodwill impairment test as of December 31 each fiscal year or when changes in circumstances indicate an impairment event may have occurred. Impairment charges represent noncash charges and do not affect the Company’s liquidity, cash flows from operating activities or have any effect on future operations.

The Company conducted the annual goodwill impairment test as of December 31, 2017. The Company believes the use of a discounted cash flow approach, combined with the market approach, is the most reliable indicator of the estimated fair value of the business. Upon completion of the annual test, it was determined the Marketing Services reporting unit’s fair value exceeded its carrying value by approximately 93 percent. Accordingly, no impairment was warranted.

Long-Lived Assets. The Company evaluates its ability to recover the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, using the lowest level of cash flows associated with the assets, which are grouped based on the Company’s intended use of these assets. This evaluation is performed whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the carrying value of an asset group may not be recoverable. If the analysis of undiscounted future cash flows indicates the carrying value of the long-lived assets cannot be recovered, the assets are adjusted to the lower of its carrying value or fair value.

Investments. The Company owns certain equity securities in companies in which it does not exercise control. These investments are recorded under the cost method and the Company recognizes income or loss upon the receipt of dividends or distributions, or upon liquidation of the investment. The Company evaluates its ability to recover the carrying value of cost method investments based upon the financial strength of the investee. If the Company determines the carrying value is not recoverable, an impairment charge is recorded for the difference between the fair value of the investment and the carrying value. For those investments where the Company is able to exercise significant influence over the investee as defined under ASC 323 – Equity Method and Joint Ventures, the Company accounts for the investment under the equity method of accounting, recognizing its share of the investee’s income or loss as a component of earnings.

In the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company’s ownership interest in Wanderful Media, LLC (“Wanderful”) decreased to less than 20 percent of the outstanding membership interests of Wanderful and the Company no longer exerted significant influence over Wanderful. Accordingly, the Company discontinued the use of the equity method of accounting for the investment in Wanderful, and began accounting for the investment under the cost method. In the fourth quarter of 2016, the Company abandoned its remaining ownership interest in Wanderful.

Pension. The Company follows accounting guidance for single-employer defined benefit plans. Plan assets and the projected benefits obligation are measured each December 31, and the Company records as an asset or liability the net funded position of the plans. Certain changes in actuarial valuations related to returns on plan assets and projected benefit obligations are recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are amortized to net periodic pension expense over the weighted average remaining life of plan participants, to the extent the cumulative balance in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) exceeds 10 percent of the greater of the respective plan’s (a) projected benefit obligation or (b) the market-related value of the plan’s assets. Net periodic pension expense is recognized each period by accruing interest expense on the projected benefit obligation and accruing a return on assets associated with the plan assets. Participation in and accrual of new benefits to participants has been frozen since 2007 and, accordingly, on-going service costs are not a component of net periodic pension expense. From time to time, the Company-sponsored plans may settle pension obligations with certain plan participants through the plans’ master trust as part of its de-risking strategies. The gains or losses associated with settlements of plan obligations to participants are recognized to earnings if such settlements exceed the interest component of net periodic pension cost for the year. Otherwise, such amounts are included in actuarial gains (losses) in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Re-measurement of plan assets and liabilities upon a significant settlement or curtailment event is performed based on the values of the month-end closest to the event.

Long-Term Incentive Plan. The Company sponsors a long-term incentive plan (the “Plan”) under which it issues restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and cash awards to directors and certain employees of the Company. The fair value of awards issued under the Plan is recognized to expense over the requisite service period. The fair value of RSUs is established at the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Vested RSUs are redeemed 60 percent in A. H. Belo Series A common stock and 40 percent in cash over a period of up to three years. The Company records a liability for the portion of the outstanding RSUs to be redeemed in cash, which is adjusted to its fair value each period, based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock.

Under the long-term incentive plan, options can be issued to directors and employees of the Company. All outstanding options issued against the Company’s stock were fully vested and recognized to earnings as of December 31, 2017.

Due to the expiration of the Plan on February 8, 2018, A. H. Belo implemented, and shareholders approved, a new long-term incentive plan (the “2017 Plan”) under which an additional 8,000,000 shares of the Company’s Series A and Series B common stock are authorized for equity-based awards. Like its predecessor plan, awards under the 2017 Plan may be granted to A. H. Belo employees and outside directors in the form of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted share awards, RSUs, performance shares, performance units or stock appreciation rights. No grants were made under the 2017 Plan as of December 31, 2017.

Shareholders’ Equity. The Company authorized the issuance of shares of Series A and Series B common stock. Series A common stock has one vote per share and Series B common stock has 10 votes per share. Shares of Series B common stock are convertible at any time on a share-for-share basis into shares of Series A common stock, but not vice versa.

The Company is authorized to grant stock option and RSU awards to employees and directors of the Company. Upon vesting of RSUs, shares of Series A common stock are issued. Upon the exercise of stock options, Series A common stock is issued if the holder of the stock options executes a simultaneous exercise and sale. If the holder of the stock option chooses not to sell the shares, Series B common stock is issued.

In 2012, the Company’s board of directors authorized the purchase of the A. H. Belo Series A or Series B common stock, for use other than retirement, through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or otherwise. In December 2015, the Company discontinued share repurchases. In the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company resumed open market stock repurchases under its prior board-authorized repurchase authority. Treasury stock acquired under the repurchase program is recorded at cost, reducing shareholders’ equity. The acquired shares are available for sale on the open market or for settlement of obligations related to its share-based awards.

Accumulated other comprehensive loss consists of actuarial gains and losses associated with the A. H. Belo Pension Plans (the “Pension Plans”) and other post-employment benefit (the “OPEB”) plans. The cumulative balances are amortized to earnings over the weighted average remaining life expectancy of the participants to the extent such balances exceed 10 percent of the greater of the respective plan’s (a) projected benefit obligation or (b) the market-related value of the plan’s assets. The Company discloses amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income (loss) in Note 8 - Shareholders' Equity.

Revenue Recognition. The Company’s principal sources of revenue are the advertising space in published issues of its newspapers and on the Company’s and third-party websites, the sale of newspapers to distributors and individual subscribers, as well as amounts charged to customers for commercial printing, distribution and direct mail. Advertising revenue is recorded net of agency commission at the time the advertisements are published in the newspaper and ratably over the period of time the advertisement is placed on the websites. Marketing Services revenue is recognized at the time the services are rendered. Proceeds from subscriptions are deferred and included in revenue ratably over the term of the subscriptions. Subscription revenue under buy-sell arrangements with distributors is recorded based on the net amount received from the distributor, whereas subscription revenue under fee-based delivery arrangements with distributors is recorded based on the amount received from the subscriber. Commercial printing and direct mail revenue is recorded when the product is distributed or shipped.

Income Taxes. The Company uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes and recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates. The Company establishes a valuation allowance if it is more-likely-than-not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The factors used to assess the likelihood of realization of the deferred tax assets include reversal of future deferred tax liabilities, available tax planning strategies, future taxable income and taxable income in prior carryback years.

The Company evaluates any uncertain tax positions each reporting period by tax jurisdiction to determine if it is more-likely-than-not that the tax position will not be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements for such positions are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. If a net operating loss or other tax credit carry forward exists, the Company records the unrecognized tax benefits for such tax positions as a reduction to a deferred tax asset. Otherwise, the unrecognized tax benefits are recorded as a liability. The Company records a liability for uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. Any change in judgment related to the expected ultimate resolution of uncertain tax positions is recognized in earnings in the period in which such change occurs. Interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits are recorded in interest expense.

Use of Estimates. Company management makes estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts and disclosures reported in its financial statements and include valuation allowances for doubtful accounts, uncertain tax positions and deferred tax assets, fair value measurements related to assets held for sale, pension plan assets and equity based compensation, actuarial liabilities related to self-insured risks, pension plan obligations and assumptions related to impairment and recovery of goodwill and long-lived assets. Estimates are based on past experience and other considerations reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Segments. The Company operates under two reportable segments. The Publishing segment includes the operating activities associated with the Company’s core print and digital operations associated with its newspapers, niche publications and related websites and apps. The Marketing Services segment includes the operations of DMV Holdings, Speakeasy and digital advertising through Connect (programmatic advertising). This segment primarily includes sales of advertising delivered outside the Company’s news platforms, social media management services, and other marketing services designed to provide integrated solutions for optimizing businesses marketing challenges and opportunities.

Fair Value Measurements. The Company’s financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, interest receivable, accounts payable and amounts due to customers are carried at cost, which approximates its fair value because of the short-term nature of these instruments.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements.

In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-04 – Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. This update simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill and eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company early adopted this standard in the third quarter of 2017. The adoption of this standard did not materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

New Accounting Pronouncements. The FASB issued the following accounting pronouncements and guidance which may be applicable to the Company but have not yet become effective.

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 – Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). This guidance prescribes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in the accounting of revenue arising from contracts with customers. The core principle contemplated by this new guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount reflecting the consideration the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. New disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers are also required. Since May 2014, the FASB issued clarifying updates to the new standard specifically to address certain core principles including the identification of performance obligations, licensing guidance, the assessment of the collectability criterion, the presentation of taxes collected from customers, noncash considerations, contract modifications, and completed contracts at transition. The new guidance will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance under GAAP and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2017. There are two transition options available to entities, the full retrospective approach, in which the Company would restate prior periods, or the modified retrospective approach. The Company currently anticipates adopting ASU 2014-09 using the modified retrospective approach as of January 1, 2018. This approach consists of recognizing the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard as an adjustment to opening retained earnings.

The Company coordinated a team of key stakeholders to develop a bottom-up approach to analyze the impact of the new standard on its portfolio of contracts. The Company completed its assessment and the expected impact is a reduction in revenue of approximately $15,600 to $18,500 annually, primarily related to digital advertising revenue placed on third-party websites where the Company is acting as an agent under the new standard. Currently, such revenue is generally recorded gross, but under the new standard will be recorded net. There is no impact to opening retained earnings. All other lines of revenue were not materially impacted as a majority of revenue transactions are recognized when the product is delivered.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 – Leases (Topic 842). This update requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for virtually all of its leases. The liability will be equal to the present value of lease payments. The asset will generally be based on the liability. For income statement purposes, operating leases will result in straight-line expense and finance leases will result in expenses similar to current capital leases. The guidance also requires additional disclosures to enable users of financial statements to understand the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years and will be applied using the modified retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of this update and has not yet determined its impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-06 – Plan Accounting – Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Topic 960), Defined Contribution Pension Plans (Topic 962) and Health and Welfare Benefit Plans (Topic 965): Employee Benefit Plan Master Trust Reporting. This update clarifies the presentation requirements for a plan’s interest in a master trust and requires more detailed disclosures of the plan’s interest in the master trust. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of this update and has not yet determined its impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07 – Compensation – Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost. This update clarifies the presentation and classification of the components of net periodic benefit cost in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Specifically, this standard requires the service cost component of net periodic benefit cost to be recorded in the same income statement line as other employee compensation costs and all other components of net periodic benefit cost must be presented as non-operating items. The guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The Company currently anticipates adopting this standard retrospectively as of January 1, 2018. The Company’s defined benefit plans have been frozen, so the Company is no longer incurring service costs related to the plans. Therefore, after adoption, the entire net periodic benefit cost will be presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in non-operating income (expense).

Segment Reporting

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

Note 2: Segment Reporting

In the first quarter of 2017, in conjunction with the promotion of Grant Moise from Senior Vice President Business Development / Niche Products to General Manager of The Dallas Morning News and Executive Vice President of A. H. Belo, the Company reorganized its two reportable segments based on changes in reporting structure and the go-to-market for the Company’s service and product offerings. The two reportable segments are Publishing and Marketing Services.

The Publishing segment includes the Company’s core print and digital operations associated with its newspapers, niche publications and related websites and apps. These operations generate revenue from sales of advertising within its newspaper and digital platforms, subscription and retail sales of its newspapers, sponsorship advertising for events, commercial printing and distribution services, primarily related to national and regional newspapers, and preprint advertisers. Businesses within the Publishing segment leverage the production facilities, subscriber and advertiser base, and digital news platforms to provide additional contribution margin. The Company evaluates Publishing operations based on operating profit and cash flows from operating activities.

The Marketing Services segment includes the operations of DMV Holdings, Speakeasy and digital advertising through Connect (programmatic advertising). The Company operates the portfolio of assets within its Marketing Services segment as separate businesses that sell digital marketing and advertising through different channels, including programmatic advertising and content marketing within the social media environment.

Based on the organization of the Company’s structure and organizational chart, we believe the Company’s chief operating decision makers (the “CODMs”) are its Chief Executive Officer, Jim Moroney, and Grant Moise, the General Manager of The Dallas Morning News and Executive Vice President of A. H. Belo Corporation. The CODMs allocate resources and capital to the Publishing and Marketing Services segments at the segment level.

The tables below set forth summarized financial information for the Company’s reportable segments. Due to the first quarter 2017 reorganization of the Company’s two reportable segments, the prior year periods financial information by segment were recast for comparative purposes.



	Years Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
			(Recast)			(Recast)
Revenue
Publishing	$	217,347	$	231,372	$	254,047
Marketing Services		31,279		28,612		18,061
Total	$	248,626	$	259,984	$	272,108

Operating Income (Loss)
Publishing	$	(13,146)	$	(26,592)	$	(19,890)
Marketing Services		3,093		2,846		1,595
Total	$	(10,053)	$	(23,746)	$	(18,295)

Noncash Expenses
Publishing
Depreciation	$	10,300	$	10,637	$	11,401
Amortization		—		104		552
Asset impairments		3,344		22,682		—
Pension settlement		5,911		—		14,964
Total	$	19,555	$	33,423	$	26,917

Marketing Services
Depreciation	$	115	$	76	$	114
Amortization		799		802		797
Total	$	914	$	878	$	911



	December 31,
	2017		2016
			(Recast)
Total Assets
Publishing	$	137,409	$	170,820
Marketing Services		25,439		21,911
Total	$	162,848	$	192,731

Acquisitions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Acquisitions

Note 3: Acquisitions

On February 16, 2017, the Company acquired the remaining 30 percent voting interest in Speakeasy for a cash purchase price of $2,111, and on March 2, 2017, the Company acquired the remaining 20 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings for a cash purchase price of $7,120.

The initial purchase of 80 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings occurred in January 2015 for a cash purchase price of $14,110. DMV Digital Holdings Company holds all outstanding ownership interests of three Dallas-based businesses, Distribion, Inc., Vertical Nerve, Inc. and CDFX, LLC. These businesses specialize in local marketing automation, search engine marketing, and direct mail and promotional products, respectively. Transaction costs related to the initial purchase are a component of other production, distribution and operating costs and totaled $1,288. The estimated fair value of the acquired DMV Holdings businesses totaled $17,829, of which $2,548 was attributed to noncontrolling interests.

The allocation of the purchase price for the initial purchase of 80 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings was completed in the fourth quarter of 2015 and is summarized as follows:



		Estimated Fair Value
Working capital, net of acquired cash	$	(80)
Property, plant and equipment		57
Other intangible assets		6,470
Goodwill		12,301
Deferred tax liability		(2,090)
	$	16,658

Operating results of the businesses acquired have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations from the acquisition date forward. Revenue from marketing services is recognized at the time services are delivered and upfront fees, if any, are recognized over the life of the contractual arrangement. Operating results for 2015, related to the acquired DMV Holdings businesses, included $10,138 of operating revenue, which included $1,137 of intercompany sales and a pretax income of $95 before adjusting for noncontrolling interests. Pro forma results of the Company, assuming the acquisition had occurred at the beginning of each period presented, would not be materially different from the results reported.

These acquisitions complement the product and service offerings currently available to A. H. Belo clients, thereby strengthening the Company’s diversified product portfolio and allowing for greater penetration in a competitive advertising market.

Pro-rata distributions. In connection with the 2015 acquisition of 80 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings, the shareholder agreement provided for a pro-rata distribution of 50 percent and 100 percent of DMV Holdings’ free cash flow for fiscal years 2016 and 2015, respectively. Free cash flow is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization less capital expenditures, debt amortization and interest expense, as applicable. In 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded pro-rata distributions to noncontrolling interests of $163 and $264, respectively, in connection with this agreement based on 2016 and 2015 free cash flow as defined, respectively.

Redeemable noncontrolling interest. Also, in connection with the 2015 acquisition of 80 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings, the Company entered into a shareholder agreement, which provided for a put option to a noncontrolling shareholder. The put option provided the shareholder with the right to require the Company to purchase up to 25 percent of the noncontrolling ownership interest in DMV Holdings between the second and third anniversaries of the agreement and up to 50 percent of the noncontrolling ownership interest in DMV Holdings between the fourth and fifth anniversaries of the agreement.

Redeemable noncontrolling interest was recorded at fair value on the acquisition date and the carrying value was adjusted each period for its share of the earnings related to DMV Holdings and for any distributions. The carrying value was also adjusted for the change in fair value, which was based on the estimated redemption value as of December 31, 2016. Adjustments were recorded to retained earnings or additional paid in capital, as applicable, and have no effect to earnings of the Company. In 2017 and 2016, redeemable noncontrolling interest was decreased by $61 and $99, respectively, for distributions related to the 2016 and 2015 free cash flow, respectively, as required under the shareholder agreement. Additionally, in 2016, redeemable noncontrolling interest was increased by $53 for its share of the DMV Holdings’ earnings and increased by $1,295 for the 2016 change in fair value.

The exercisability of the noncontrolling interest put option was outside the control of the Company. As such, the redeemable noncontrolling interest of $2,670 was reported in the mezzanine equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2016. As a result of the purchase of the remaining 20 percent voting interest in DMV Holdings, the shareholder agreement was terminated and the redeemable noncontrolling interest was eliminated as of March 31, 2017.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Note 4: Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The table below sets forth goodwill and other intangible assets by reportable segment as of December 31, 2017 and 2016. Due to the first quarter 2017 reorganization of the Company’s two reportable segments, the prior year period financial information by segment was recast for comparative purposes; see Note 2 – Segment Reporting. The Company’s Publishing and Marketing Services segments each operate as a single reporting unit.



	December 31,
	2017		2016
			(Recast)
Goodwill
Publishing	$	—	$	228
Marketing Services		13,973		13,973
Total	$	13,973	$	14,201

Intangible Assets
Publishing
Cost	$	—	$	240
Accumulated Amortization		—		(240)
Net Carrying Value	$	—	$	—
Marketing Services
Cost	$	6,470	$	6,470
Accumulated Amortization		(2,397)		(1,598)
Net Carrying Value	$	4,073	$	4,872

In 2017, the Publishing segment’s fully amortized intangible assets of $240 of customer relationships were written-off and had no remaining useful life. Intangible assets consist of $4,950 of customer relationships with estimated useful lives of 10 years and $1,520 of developed technology with an estimated useful life of five years. Aggregate amortization expense was $799 and $906 for 2017 and 2016, respectively. Annual amortization expense for the next five years is expected to approximate $799 in 2018 and 2019, and $495 thereafter.

As a result of the first quarter 2017 segment reorganization, certain goodwill and intangible assets previously reported in the Marketing Services segment were moved to the Publishing segment, which was fully impaired as of December 31, 2016. Therefore, the Company recorded a noncash goodwill impairment charge of $228 in the first quarter of 2017. In 2016, the Company recorded a noncash goodwill impairment charge of $22,682, fully impairing the Publishing reporting unit’s goodwill.

The Company tested the Marketing Services segment’s goodwill for impairment as of December 31, 2017, using a discounted cash flow methodology with a peer-based, risk-adjusted weighted average cost of capital, combined with a market approach using peer-based earnings multiples. The Company believes the use of a discounted cash flow approach, combined with the market approach, is the most reliable indicator of the estimated fair value of the business. Upon completion of the annual test, it was determined the Marketing Services reporting unit’s fair value exceeded its carrying value by approximately 93 percent. Accordingly, no impairment was warranted.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss.

+ References + Details

Long-term Incentive Plan

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Long-term Incentive Plan [Abstract]

Long-term Incentive Plan

Note 5: Long-term Incentive Plan

A. H. Belo sponsors a long-term incentive plan (the “Plan”) under which 8,000,000 shares of the Company’s Series A and Series B common stock are authorized for equity-based awards. Awards may be granted to A. H. Belo employees and outside directors in the form of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted share awards, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), performance shares, performance units or stock appreciation rights. In addition, stock options may be accompanied by full and limited stock appreciation rights. Rights and limited stock appreciation rights may also be issued without accompanying stock options. Awards under the Plan were also granted to holders of stock options issued by A. H. Belo’s former parent company in connection with the Company’s separation from its former parent in 2008. Due to the expiration of the Plan on February 8, 2018, A. H. Belo implemented, and shareholders approved, a new long-term incentive plan (the “2017 Plan”) under which an additional 8,000,000 shares of the Company’s Series A and Series B common stock are authorized for equity-based awards. Like its predecessor plan, awards under the 2017 Plan may be granted to A. H. Belo employees and outside directors in the form of non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, restricted share awards, RSUs, performance shares, performance units or stock appreciation rights. No grants were made under the 2017 Plan as of December 31, 2017.

Stock Options. Stock options granted under the Plan are fully vested and exercisable. No options have been granted since 2009, and all compensation expense associated with stock options has been fully recognized as of December 31, 2017.

The table below sets forth a summary of stock option activity under the Plan.



	Number of Options	Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at December 31, 2016	114,979	$	8.21
Canceled	(14,635)		20.16
Outstanding at December 31, 2017	100,344		6.46

As of December 31, 2017, the aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding options was $8 and the weighted average remaining contractual life of the Company’s stock options was less than one year. The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised in 2016 and 2015 was $300 and $100, respectively.

Restricted Stock Units. The Company’s RSUs have service and/or performance conditions and, subject to retirement eligibility, vest over a period of up to three years. Vested RSUs are redeemed 60 percent in A. H. Belo Series A common stock and 40 percent in cash over a period of up to three years. As of December 31, 2017, the liability for the portion of the awards to be redeemed in cash was $1,028.

The table below sets forth a summary of RSU activity under the Plan.



	Total RSUs	Issuance of Common Stock	RSUs Redeemed in Cash	Cash Payments at Closing Price of Stock		Weighted Average Price on Date of Grant
Non-vested at December 31, 2016	121,131					$	5.65
Granted	284,868						6.11
Vested and outstanding	(159,212)						5.71
Vested and issued	(22,734)	13,634	9,100	$	57		6.90
Non-vested at December 31, 2017	224,053						6.07

In 2017, the Company issued 63,272 shares of Series A common stock and 42,189 shares were redeemed in cash for RSUs that were previously vested as of December 31, 2016. In addition, there were 290,825 and 237,074 RSUs that were vested and outstanding as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The fair value of RSU grants is determined using the closing trading price of the Company’s Series A common stock on the grant date. As of December 31, 2017, unrecognized compensation expense related to the non-vested RSUs totaled $831, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.4 years.

Compensation Expense. A. H. Belo recognizes compensation expense for awards granted under the Plan over the vesting period of the award. Compensation expense related to RSUs granted under the Plan is set forth in the table below.



Years Ended December 31,	RSUs Redeemable in Stock		RSUs Redeemable in Cash		Total RSU Awards Expense
2017	$	944	$	654	$	1,598
2016		640		580		1,220
2015		605		(349)		256

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2017

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Note 6: Income Taxes

The table below sets forth the income tax benefit related to continuing operations.



	Years Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Current
Federal	$	(2,018)	$	(2,431)	$	(1,726)
State		1,113		1,205		1,729
Total current		(905)		(1,226)		3
Deferred
Federal		8,723		1,514		(3,988)
State		(7)		(26)		(389)
Total deferred		8,716		1,488		(4,377)
Valuation Allowance		(14,071)		(2,534)		2,804
Income Tax Benefit	$	(6,260)	$	(2,272)	$	(1,570)

The table below reconciles the income tax benefit for continuing operations computed by applying the applicable United States federal income tax rate to the tax benefit computed at the effective income tax rate.



	Years Ended December 31,
	2017		2016		2015
Computed expected income tax provision (benefit)	$	1,362	$	(7,312)	$	(6,917)
State income tax (net of federal benefit)		698		757		780
Valuation allowance		(14,071)		(2,534)		2,804
Federal tax reform - deferred rate change		3,570		—		—
Goodwill impairment		63		6,266		—
Nondeductible expenses		(3,454)		249		493
Uncertain tax position reserve		2,555		(7)		244
Noncontrolling interests		(5)		(40)		133
Other		3,022		349		893
Income tax benefit	$	(6,260)	$	(2,272)	$	(1,570)
Effective income tax rate		(160.5)%		10.6%		7.9%

A tax benefit of $6,260 was recorded in 2017. The benefit was primarily due to deductions associated with the voluntary pension contribution of $20,000, partial release of the valuation allowance and a capital loss on the sale of the Denton Record-Chronicle, of which a portion will be carried back to 2014 for federal income tax purposes. These deductions offset taxable income that resulted from the sale of the Company’s three properties in downtown Dallas, Texas.

In December 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “2017 Tax Act”) was enacted. The 2017 Tax Act includes a number of changes to existing U.S. tax laws that impact the Company, most notably a reduction of the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. The 2017 Tax Act also provides for the acceleration of depreciation for certain assets placed into service after September 27, 2017 as well as prospective changes beginning in 2018, including repeal of the domestic manufacturing deduction, acceleration of tax revenue recognition, capitalization of research and development expenditures, additional limitations on executive compensation and limitations on the deductibility of interest.

As of December 31, 2017, the Company has completed its accounting for the tax effects of enactment of the 2017 Tax Act, which is reflected in the Company’s 2017 consolidated financial statements. The Company measures deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates that will apply in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to be recovered or paid. Accordingly, the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities were remeasured to reflect the reduction in the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent, resulting in a $3,570 decrease in income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2017.

A tax benefit of $2,272 was recorded in 2016. The benefit was primarily due to deductions associated with capital losses on the sale of certain investments, which were carried back to 2014 for federal income tax purposes.

A tax benefit of $1,570 was recorded in 2015. The benefit was primarily derived from $2,090 of deferred tax liabilities assumed in the acquisition of DMV Holdings, which reduced the amount of valuation allowance that would have otherwise been required. A receivable was recorded in prepaid and other assets as of December 31, 2015, for federal net operating losses of $3,066 generated in 2015.

The Company made income tax payments, net of refunds, of $583 and $(906) in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Federal tax benefit recognized in 2017 of $4,073 was recorded within current assets on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2017. This tax benefit is the result of the sale of the Denton Record-Chronicle in the fourth quarter of 2017. Tax benefits recognized in 2016 were carried back against taxes paid in 2014 for a refund of $3,210 to be received in 2018, which is the result of a tax benefit from the abandonment of the Company's ownership interest in Wanderful and the sale of the Company's equity investment in Homesnap, Inc. in the fourth quarter of 2016. Tax benefits recognized in 2015 were carried back against taxes paid in 2014 for a refund of $2,930 received in 2016.

In accordance with realization requirements of ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation, the tax liability and additional paid in capital were reduced in 2015 by $557, for the value of equity compensation in excess of the compensation expense recognized. These deductions were not available to the Company prior to 2014 due to the net operating loss assets.

The table below sets forth the significant components of the Company’s deferred tax liabilities and assets.



	December 31,
	2017		2016
Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)
Defined benefit plans	$	4,838	$	19,195
Investments		210		659
Tax depreciation less than book depreciation		1,576		4,171
Expenses deductible for tax purposes in a year different from the year accrued		644		805
Deferred compensation and benefits		553		756
Tax amortization in excess of book amortization		(368)		(848)
State taxes		68		106
Federal net operating loss carryforward		4,260		—
Other		482		739
Total		12,263		25,583
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets		(6,908)		(25,583)
Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	5,355	$	—

The presentation of net deferred tax assets and liabilities for each jurisdiction are presented as noncurrent within the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Deferred income tax balances reflect the effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax bases and are stated at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the taxes are actually paid or recovered. The Company recognizes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets when it is more-likely-than-