Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Debt and Collateral Financing Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Amortized Cost, Due in one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Due after one year through five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Due after five years through ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Due after ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Structured Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Subtotal Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Estimated Fair Value, Due in one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after one year through five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after five years through ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value Estimated fair value, structured securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior Notes Due 2027 BHF Senior Notes due 2027 [Member] BHF Senior Notes due 2027. Senior Notes Due 2047 BHF Senior Notes due 2047 [Member] BHF Senior Notes due 2047. Surplus Notes Due 2038 MLUSA Surplus Notes due 2038 [Member] MLUSA Surplus Notes due 2038. Surplus Note Due 2032 MRD Surplus Notes due 2032 [Member] MRD Surplus Notes due 2032. Surplus Note Due 2033 MRD Surplus Notes due 2033 [Member] MRD Surplus Notes due 2033. Non-recourse Debt Due 2030 Non Recourse Debt Due 2030 [Member] Debt for which creditor does not have general recourse to the debtor but rather has recourse only to the property used for collateral in the transaction or other specific property. Term Loan Due 2019 Term Loan Due 2019 [Member] Term Loan due 2019. Long-term Debt Excluding CSEs Long Term Debt Excluding Variable Interest Entity Primary Beneficiary [Member] Debt arrangement having an initial term longer than one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, excluding debt related to variable interest entities (VIE) in which the entity has a controlling financial interest (as defined) and of which it is therefore the primary beneficiary. VIEs of which the entity is the primary beneficiary are included in the consolidated financial statements of the entity. MRSC Collateral Financing Arrangement Mrsc Collateral Financing Arrangement [Member] Mrsc Collateral Financing Arrangement [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt instrument, stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term debt outstanding Long-term Debt Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate debt Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt instrument, unamortized debt issuance costs and debt discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Pro Forma Pro Forma [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract] Total revenues Revenues Total expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Brighthouse Financial, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Basic earnings per common share (1) Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Earnings per common share - basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Fixed Maturity Securities Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Purchased credit impaired investments, by invested asset class, held: Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities [Abstract] Outstanding principal and interest balance Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Outstanding Balance Carrying value Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Carrying Amount, Net Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Domestic Plan [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Actual weighted average asset allocation by major asset class for the Invested Plans [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract] Target Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Target Allocation, Percentage Actual Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of segments Number of Reportable Segments Benefit Plan Obligations, Assets, Funded Status, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Accumulated Benefit Obligation Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan [Table Text Block] Benefit Plan Obligations, Assets, Funded Status, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Accumulated Benefit Obligation Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Accumulated benefit obligations in excess of fair value of plan assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Net periodic benefit costs and other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Assumptions used in determining benefit obligations and net periodic benefit costs Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Plan Assets Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Defined benefit plan estimated future benefit payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Foreign currency swaps Currency Swap [Member] Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Policyholder account balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances. Foreign-denominated fixed maturity securities Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Derivatives Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Hedged Items Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Statutory Accounting Practices [Table] Statutory Accounting Practices [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Brighthouse Reinsurance Company of Delaware [Member] Brighthouse Reinsurance Company of Delaware [Member] Brighthouse Reinsurance Company of Delaware [Member] Domestic Captive Life Reinsurance Subsidiaries [Member] Domestic Captive Life Reinsurance Subsidiaries [Member] Domestic captive life reinsurance subsidiaries of the parent company. Metlife Reinsurance Company of Vermont [Member] Metlife Reinsurance Company of Vermont Cell [Member] MetLife Reinsurance Company of Vermont Cell MetLife Reinsurance Company of Delaware [Member] MetLife Reinsurance Company of Delaware [Member] MetLife Reinsurance Company of Delaware Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items] Statutory Accounting Practices, Prescribed Practice, Amount Statutory Accounting Practices, Prescribed Practice, Amount Statutory net income (loss) Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount Statutory capital and surplus Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Less than 65% Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator Range One [Member] Mortgage loans with a loan-to-value ratio of less than 65%. 65% to 75% Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator Range Two [Member] Mortgage loans with a loan-to-value ratio of 65% to 75%. Performing Performing Financial Instruments [Member] Nonperforming Nonperforming Financial Instruments [Member] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Agricultural Mortgage Loans - by Credit Quality Indicator: Agricultural Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator [Abstract] Agricultural mortgage loans, by credit quality indicator. Recorded investment in Mortgage Loan Loans Receivable, Gross, Commercial, Agricultural % of Total Loans Receivable Commercial Agricultural Mortgage Percentage Reflects the percentage of the gross carrying amount of unpaid loans issued to agricultural businesses to provide financing on existing land or a building, which, pursuant to terms of the underlying debt instrument, are secured at a minimum but possibly exclusively by that real property to the total for all commercial agricultural mortgage loans. Mortgages represent permanent financing, and are issued to replace previously existing mortgages or pay off acquisition, development and construction loans, or to provide cash to the borrower. Residential Mortgage Loans - by Credit Quality Indicator: Residential Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator [Abstract] Residential mortgage loans, by credit quality indicator. Recorded investment in Mortgage Loan Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Mortgage % of Total Loans And Leases Receivable Consumer Mortgage Percentage Reflects the percentage of the gross carrying amount of unpaid loans and leases issued to consumers to the total for all consumer loans and leases. Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement [Table] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement [Table] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement. Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Accident and Health Insurance Product Line [Member] Accident and Health Insurance Product Line [Member] Assumed Reinsurance [Member] Assumed Reinsurance [Member] All or part of a ceding company's insurance or reinsurance on a risk or exposure that is accepted. Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Amounts passed on to another insurer (the reinsurer) that are all or part of the financial interests of insurance policies written by an insurer (the ceding insurer) or assumed by an insurer/reinsurer with the object of reducing the cedent's possible liability by sharing with the reinsurer the insurance liability, premiums, and losses from the reinsured business. Reinsurance [Member] Reinsurance [Member] Affiliated reinsurance. Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain Loss. Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Reinsurance Retention Policy, Excess Retention, Percentage Reinsurance Retention Policy, Excess Retention, Percentage Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Premiums: Premiums Earned [Abstract] Premiums Earned [Abstract] Direct premiums Direct Premiums Earned Reinsurance assumed Assumed Premiums Earned Reinsurance ceded Ceded Premiums Earned Net premiums Premiums Earned, Net Universal life and investment-type product policy fees: Fees and Commissions [Abstract] Direct universal life and investment-type product policy fees Direct Insurance Commissions And Fees Universal life and investment-type product policy fees for all insurance before adding amounts assumed from other insurers or subtracting amounts ceded to other insurers. Reinsurance assumed Assumed Insurance Commissions And Fees Universal life and investment-type product policy fees assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Reinsurance ceded Ceded Insurance Commissions And Fees Universal life and investment-type product policy fees ceded to other insurers as a result of reinsurance agreements. Net universal life and investment-type product policy fees Insurance Commissions and Fees Other revenues Component of Operating Income [Abstract] Other Income Direct Other Income Direct Fees, commissions and other revenues earned from all insurance before adding amounts assumed from other insurers or subtracting amounts ceded to other insurers. Commissions Fees And Other Income Assumed Commissions Fees And Other Income Assumed Fees, commissions and other revenues assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Other Income Ceded Other Income Ceded Fees, commissions and other revenues ceded to other insurers as a result of reinsurance agreements. Other Income Policyholder benefits and claims: Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred [Abstract] Direct policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Direct Reinsurance assumed Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed Reinsurance ceded Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Ceded Net policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Net Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Abstract] Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Interest credited to policyholder account balances Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Profits [Abstract] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Profits [Abstract] Amortization of DAC and VOBA Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Other expenses: Other Expenses [Abstract] Total other expenses Operating Expenses Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Annuity products Investments Product Line [Member] Life insurance products Life Insurance Product Line [Member] Other products Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total premiums, universal life and investment-type product policy fees and other revenues Financial Services Revenue Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Insurance-related Assessments Insurance-related Assessments [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Distribution Rights [Member] Distribution Rights [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Estimated future amortization expense allocated to other expenses for VOBA [Abstract] Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Next Five Years [Abstract] VOBA 2018 Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year One VOBA 2019 Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Two VOBA 2020 Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Three VOBA 2021 Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Four VOBA 2022 Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Year Five Value of Distribution Agreements and Customer Relationships Acquired [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] VODA 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months VODA 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two VODA 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three VODA 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four VODA 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Axis] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Axis] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Domain] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Domain] Ceded Credit Risk, Unsecured [Member] Ceded Credit Risk, Unsecured [Member] Ceded Credit Risk, Secured [Member] Ceded Credit Risk, Secured [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company [Member] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company [Member] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Recapture MLUS [Member] Recapture MLUS [Member] Recapture of Single Premium Deferred Annuity MLUS Life and Other [Member] Life and Other [Member] Life and Other Insurance Product Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit BHL Recapture GMIB [Member] BHL Recapture GMIB [Member] Recapture of variable annuities BLIC Affiliate Recapture Variable Annuities [Member] Affiliate Recapture Variable Annuities [Member] Recapture of agreements from BLICNY and NELICO Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit SPDARecapture [Member] SPDARecapture [Member] Recapture of Single Premium deferred Annuity agreement with MLIC MRVTermRecapture [Member] MRVTermRecapture [Member] Recpature of level premium term business with MRV Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Affiliated Entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Other liabilities relating to variable interest entities Other Liabilities Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Reinsurance Recoverables, Ceded Reinsurance Recoverables, Ceded Amount of reinsurance recoverable balances in both asset and liability accounts that have been ceded. Deposit Contracts, Assets Deposit Contracts, Assets Embedded derivatives gains (losses) Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Liability for Future Policy Benefits Liability for Future Policy Benefits Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposits Affiliated Entity [Member] All Services and Transactions Except Broker Dealer Activities [Member] All Services and Transactions Except Broker Dealer Activities [Member] All services and transactions except Broker Dealer activities. Broker Dealer Activities Broker Dealer Activities [Member] Broker Dealer Activities Due from Related Parties Due from Related Parties Due to Related Parties Due to Related Parties Income Revenue from Related Parties Expense Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract] Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Other Policy-Related Balances Other Policy-Related Balances Liability as of the balance sheet date to the policyholders for funds held that are returnable under the terms of insurance contracts that were not separately reported. Also includes unearned premiums. Consolidated Reinsurance (Narrative) [Abstract] Consolidated Reinsurance (Narrative) [Abstract] Life insurance (1) Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Life Insurance in Force, Ceded Life Insurance in Force, Ceded Life Insurance in Force, Assumed Life Insurance in Force, Assumed Ceded Premiums Earned U.S. corporate Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] U.S. government and agency US Treasury and Government [Member] RMBS Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Foreign corporate Foreign Corporate Debt Securities [Member] State and political subdivision US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] CMBS Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] ABS Asset-backed Securities [Member] Foreign government Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Cost or Amortized Cost Cost or Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Gross Unrealized Gain Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Gross Unrealized OTTI Loss Other Than Temporary Impairments On Debt Securities Transferred To Other Comprehensive Income Loss Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income loss. Gross Unrealized OTTI Loss Other Than Temporary Impairments On Equity Securities Transferred To Other Comprehensive Loss Other-than-temporary impairments on equity securities transferred to other comprehensive loss. Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Ceded Credit Risk [Table] Ceded Credit Risk [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Ceded Credit Risk [Axis] Ceded Credit Risk, Reinsurer [Axis] Ceded Credit Risk, Reinsurer [Domain] Ceded Credit Risk, Reinsurer [Domain] Five Largest Ceded Reinsurers [Member] Five largest ceded reinsurers. Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items] Deposit assets in premiums, reinsurance, and other receivables or secondary guarantee risk for reinsurance Deposit liabilities in other liabilities for reinsurance Deposit Contracts, Liabilities Reinsurance recoverables Five largest reinsurers, reinsurance recoverables amount Ceded Credit Risk, Reinsurance Recoverables, Net Amount of reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance to cover probable credit loss, which constitute a concentration of credit risk. Five largest reinsurers, reinsurance recoverables percentage Ceded Credit Risk, Reinsurance Recoverables, Percentage Percentage of total reinsurance recoverables which constitute a concentration of credit risk. Reinsurance Retention Policy [Table] Reinsurance Policy, Type [Axis] Reinsurance Policy [Domain] Annuities Annuities [Member] Annuities. Living And Death Benefit Guarantees [Member] Living And Death Benefit Guarantees [Member] Living and death benefit guarantees associated with Retail Annuity business Mortality Risk [Member] Mortality risk associated with life insurance. Mortality Risk on Case by Case Basis [Member] Mortality risk associated with life insurance, on a case by case basis. Quota Share Reinsurance for Certain Disability Business [Member] Quota-share reinsurance agreements for certain disability business. Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items] Reinsured risk percentage Reinsurance Retention Policy, Reinsured Risk, Percentage Percentage of reinsured risk in excess of stated amount Retention amount Reinsurance Retention Policy, Amount Retained Intangible Assets and Liabilities, excluding Goodwill [Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Earned Income On Derivatives And Income Statement Location Settlement Payments By Hedge Classification And Income Statement Location [Table Text Block] The table presents the settlement payments recorded in income by hedge classification and income statement location. Schedule of estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of written credit default swaps Disclosure of Credit Derivatives [Table Text Block] Estimated Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities after Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of derivative and other financial assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including master netting arrangements. Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses), Net of Related Offsets Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Interest rate forwards Forward Contracts [Member] Credit forwards [Member] Credit forwards [Member] Contracts negotiated between two parties to purchase and sell a specific quantity of a corporate bond at a price specified at origination of the contract, with delivery and settlement at a specified future date. When the primary purpose of entering into the contract is to hedge against changes in purchase price due to changes in credit spreads, these contracts are classified as credit forwards. Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Investments Net derivative gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Net investment income Net Investment Income Amortization of net actuarial gains (losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Amortization of prior service (costs) credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Income (loss) before provision for income tax Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Amount reclassified from shareholder's net investment to common stock and additional paid-in capital in connection with the Separation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Spinoff Spinoff [Member] Parent shareholders' percentage Parent shareholders' percentage [Member] Percentage of Parent shareholders' shares. Parent percentage Parent percentage [Member] Percentage of Parent shares. Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Percentage of BHF common stock distributed by parent Common Stock Distribution by Parent Percentage of common stock that parent intends to distribute Percentage of BHF common stock retained by parent after distribution Common Stock Retained by Parent Percentage of common stock retained by parent. Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Agency RMBS Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction, Type [Domain] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Open (1) Maturity Overnight [Member] 1 Month or Less Maturity Less than 30 Days [Member] 1 to 6 Months Maturity 30 to 180 Days [Member] Maturity period that is more than 29 days but fewer than 180 days from the reporting date for repurchase agreements and similar transactions, for example, but not limited to, securities lending arrangements. Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Total Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Associated Liabilities, Carrying Amount Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Additions for tax positions of current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions of current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements with tax authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Balance at December 31, Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized would impact the effective rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Minimum Minimum [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters [Abstract] Aggregate reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued for loss contingency matters as to which an estimate can be made Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Securities Investment Securities Investment [Member] Mortgage loans Mortgages [Member] Policy loans Policy Loans [Member] Real estate and real estate joint ventures Real Estate Investment [Member] Other limited partnership interests Partnership Interest [Member] Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Other Other Investments [Member] FVO CSEs — interest income — commercial mortgage loans Commercial Loan [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Consolidated Securitization Entities [Member] Certain Variable Interest Entities that are treated as consolidated securitization entities. Net Investment Income [Line Items] Net Investment Income [Line Items] Gross Investment Income, Operating Gross Investment Income, Operating Less: Investment expenses Investment Income, Investment Expense Expiration Date By Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Expiration Date By Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Expiration date by type of deferred tax assets. Expiration Date By Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Expiration Date By Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Expiration date by type of deferred tax assets. Expiration Period Fourth Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration Period Fourth Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the fourth four years by deferred tax asset type. Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred income tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Employee benefit Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Intangibles Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets Deferred Tax Assets, Investments Deferred Tax Assets, Investments Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net Less: Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total net deferred income tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred income tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Policyholder liabilities and receivables Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Net unrealized investment gains Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income DAC Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost Total deferred income tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred tax assets and liabilities [Abstract] Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Net deferred income tax asset (liability) Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Reinsurance Reinsurance [Text Block] Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-income producing debt securities. Summary of Certain Fixed Maturity Securities Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Parent Company Parent Company [Member] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Assets Assets [Abstract] Investments: Investments [Abstract] Investment in subsidiaries Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, at Fair Value Total investments Investments Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued Investment Income Receivable Current income tax recoverable Income Taxes Receivable Other Assets Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Long-term and short-term debt Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Payable to former affiliate Deferred income tax liability Total liabilities Liabilities Stockholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 and 100,000 shares authorized, respectively; 119,773,106 and 100,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Structured securities Structured Securities [Member] Structured Securities. U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Other limited partnership interests Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Carrying Amount Asset Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Carrying Amount Liability Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities MRD Surplus Notes Due 2032 And 2033 MRD Surplus Notes Due 2032 And 2033 [Member] MRD Surplus Notes due 2032 and 2033. Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Term Loan BHF Credit Facilities BHF Credit Facilities [Member] BHF Credit Facilities. MRV Committed Credit Facility MRV committed credit facility [Member] MRV committed credit facility. MRSC Committed Credit Facility MRSC committed credit facility [Member] MRSC committed credit facility. BRCD Committed Credit Facility BRCD Committed Credit Facility [Member] BRCD Committed Credit Facility. Long-term debt maturities, year one Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term debt maturities, year two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term debt maturities, year three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term debt maturities, year four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term debt maturities, year five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term debt maturities, after year five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Interest expense Interest and Debt Expense Debt instrument, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt issuance costs capitalized Debt Issuance Costs, Gross Debt discount capitalized Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Decrease in long-term debt due to debt forgiveness Debt Instrument, Decrease, Forgiveness Decrease in long-term debt due to exchange of debt for notes receivable due from a related party Debt Instrument, Increase (Decrease), Other, Net Decrease in notes receivable due from a related party due to exchange of debt for notes receivable due from a related party Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties Credit facilities, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit facilities, term Debt Instrument, Term Credit facilities, debt issuance costs capitalized Debt Issuance Costs, Line of Credit Arrangements, Gross Credit facilities, proceeds from drawdown Proceeds from Lines of Credit Credit facilities, unamortized debt issuance costs written off Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Credit facilities, outstanding balance Long-term Line of Credit Credit facilities, remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Credit facilities, commitment fee amount Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Amount Repayment of collateral financing arrangement Repayments of Debt Assets held in trust pledged as collateral Pledged Assets Separately Reported, Other Assets Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value Remaining assets held in trust pledged as collateral Remaining assets held in trust pledged as collateral Remaining assets held in trust pledged as collateral that were returned to former parent. Captive Dividend Restrictions (Narrative) [Abstract] Captive Dividend Restrictions (Narrative) [Abstract] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheets (Parent Company) Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Statements of Operations (Parent Company) Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Parent Company) Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term and Short-term Debt (Parent Company) Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Accumulated benefit obligation [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] Projected benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Estimated fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Fair Value of Plan Assets Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Derivatives Subject to Credit-Contingent Provisions Derivatives Subject To Credit-Contingent Provisions [Member] Derivatives Subject To Credit Contingent Provisions Member. Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Fixed maturity securities Fixed Maturities [Member] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Estimated fair value of derivatives in a net liability position (1) Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided: Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Insurance [Abstract] DSI: Movement in Deferred Sales Inducements [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Deferred Sales Inducement Cost, Net Capitalization Deferred Sales Inducement Cost, Addition Amortization Deferred Sales Inducement Cost, Amortization Expense Unrealized investment gains (losses) Deferred Sales Inducement Cost, Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investment Balance at December 31, Deferred Income Tax [Axis] Deferred Income Tax [Axis] Component for deferred income taxes. Deferred Income Tax [Domain] Deferred Income Tax [Domain] [Domain] for Component for deferred income taxes. Alternative Minimum Tax adjustment [Member] Alternative Minimum Tax adjustment [Member] Alternative Minimum Tax adjustment resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 Parent Company [Member] Minimum Metlife Inc [Member] Metlife Inc [Member] MetLife, Inc. Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Amount Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Amount Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Amount Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Federal statutory tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Income tax benefit related to the separate account dividends received deduction Income Tax Reconciliation, Deductions, Dividends, Related To Separate Accounts Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to deduction for dividend related to separate accounts. True-up of the prior year tax return included in current year benefit related to the separate account dividends received deduction True Up Of Prior Year Tax Return Included In Current Year Benefit or Expense Associated With Dividend Received Deduction Related to Separate Accounts True-up of the prior year tax return included in current year benefit or expense associated with dividend received deduction related to separate accounts. Percent of cash savings included in tax receivable agreement Percent of cash savings included in tax receivable agreement The percentage of cash savings, if any, in federal income tax that the company is deemed to realize as a result of certain tax situations included in a tax receivable agreement. Other expenses Other net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block] Insurance Liabilities Insurance Liabilities [Table Text Block] Provides the balance of insurance liabilities for each period end. Liabilities for Guarantees Schedule of Minimum Guaranteed Benefit Liabilities [Table Text Block] Fund Groupings Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of liability recorded and collateral pledged for funding agreements Schedule of Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Table Text Block] Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Deposit Assets Deposit Assets Assets Held-in-trust Assets Held-in-trust Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Unpaid principal balance Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance Fair Value, Option, Aggregate Differences, Loans and Long-term Receivables Carrying value at estimated fair value Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual principal balance Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance Fair Value, Option, Aggregate Differences, Long-term Debt Instruments Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Credit Losses on Debt Securities Held Additions: Otti Additions [Abstract] Otti Additions Abstract. Additional impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities previously impaired Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Additions, Additional Credit Losses Reductions: Otti Reductions [Abstract] Otti Reductions Abstract. Balance at December 31, Sales (maturities, pay downs or prepayments) of securities previously impaired as credit loss OTTI Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Securities Sold Increase in cash flows — accretion of previous credit loss OTTI Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Cash Flows Components of net unrealized investment gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Debt Securities That Were Temporarily Impaired This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to fixed maturity securities that were temporarily impaired. Fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses in AOCI Total fixed maturity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Debt Securities This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to fixed maturity securities. Equity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Equity Securities This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to equity securities. Derivatives Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Derivatives This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to derivatives. Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Other Investments This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to other investments. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Investment Gains (Losses) Components This item presents the subtotal of net unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives and other investments. Future policy benefits Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Insurance Liability Loss Recognition This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from insurance liability loss recognition. DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Dac And Voba On Which Non credit Otti Losses Have Been Recognized This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from DAC and VOBA on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized. DAC, VOBA and DSI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Dac And Voba This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from DAC and VOBA. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Allocated Amounts This item presents the subtotal of unrealized investment gains (losses) related to allocated amounts. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit Expense On Which Non Credit Otti Losses Have Been Recognized This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense) on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit Expense This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense). Net unrealized investment gains (losses) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses). Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Balance at January 1, Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Attributable To Company This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to the Company. Fixed maturity securities on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Debt Securities On Which Noncredit Otti Losses Have Been Recognized This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) on fixed maturity securities on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized. Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the year Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Unrealized Investment Gains Losses During Period This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period. Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to: Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Future policy benefits Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Insurance Liability Gain Loss Recognition This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to insurance liability gain (loss) recognition. DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Dac And Voba Related To Non Credit Otti Losses Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Loss Changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to DAC and VOBA related noncredit OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). DAC, VOBA and DSI Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Dac And Voba This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to DAC and VOBA. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit (Expense) Related To Non Credit Otti Losses Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Changes in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Income Tax Expense On Change In Unrealized Gain Or (Loss) This item represents the tax effects occurring during the period which are related to the net unrealized gain (loss) resulting from changes in the fair [carrying] value during the period of available-for-sale securities and from changes in certain insurance related assets and liabilities. Such tax affects would have been charged or credited directly to other comprehensive income or to related components of shareholders' equity. Balance at December 31, Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Attributable To Company This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to the Company. Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Net [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims incurred net. Net derivatives gains (losses) Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $60,173 and $58,715, respectively; includes $0 and $3,413, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $212 and $280, respectively) Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $47 and $40, respectively; includes $115 and $136, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) Policy loans Loans, Gross, Insurance Policy Real estate joint ventures Real Estate Investments, Net Other limited partnership interests Other Limited Partnership Interests The book value of investments in other limited partnership interests. Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value Short-term Investments Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value Other Investments Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value (includes $0 and $9, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Accrued investment income (includes $1 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Other assets Separate account assets Separate Account Assets Future policy benefits Other policy-related balances Other Policyholder Funds Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Payables For Collateral Under Securities Loaned And Other Transactions The amount of cash received as security in return for loaning securities to another party and the amount of the obligation to return cash collateral under master netting arrangements that have not been offset against net derivative instrument positions. Long-term Debt Collateral financing arrangement Secured Debt Other liabilities (includes $0 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Separate account liabilities Separate Accounts, Liability Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 16) Commitments and Contingencies Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity: Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 and 100,000 shares authorized, respectively; 119,773,106 and 100,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively Retained earnings Shareholder's net investment Shareholder’s Net Investment Shareholder’s Net Investment includes retained earnings and additional paid-in-capital Total Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Amortized cost Securities Financing Transaction, Cost [Member] Estimated fair value Securities Financing Transaction, Fair Value [Member] Securities loaned Securities Loaned Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties Security collateral on deposit from counterparties Securities Received as Collateral Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value Securities Lending Reinvestment Portfolio Estimated Fair Value This element represents the estimated fair value of the securities lending reinvestment portfolio. Insurance Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Net investment income Investment Income [Member] Interest credited to policyholder account balances Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balance [Member] Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balance [Member] Net derivative gains (losses) Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefit And Claim [Member] Primary financial statement caption encompassing policyholder benefits and claims. Total earned income Interest and Other Income Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract] Consolidated Summary of Investments - Other Than Investments in Related Parties Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Investment in leveraged leases Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Investment in Leveraged Leases, Net [Abstract] Rental receivables, net Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Rental Receivables, Net Estimated residual values Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Residual Value of Leased Assets Subtotal Investment In Leveraged Leases This element represents the subtotal of rental receivables, net plus estimated residual value of the leased assets. Unearned income Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Deferred Income Investment in leases, net of non-recourse debt Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Investment in Leveraged Leases, Net Equity Components [Axis] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Income tax expense benefit continuing operations income tax reconciliation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Capital Contribution Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Tax provision at U.S. statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Income (Loss) from Subsidiaries, Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business, Amount Dividend received deduction Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Dividends, Amount Other tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Life Life [Member] Life. Run-off Run-off [Member] Segment which consists of products no longer actively sold and which are separately managed. Corporate & Other Corporate and Other [Member] Pre-tax adjusted earnings Adjusted earnings Operating Income (Loss) Other adjustments to net income Interest revenue Interest Revenue (Expense), Net Interest expense Interest Expense Short-term debt outstanding Short-term Debt Long-term and short-term debt outstanding Payable to former affiliate Weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Maximum borrowing and lending limit applied to the respective insurance subsidiary's statutory admitted assets Intercompany Liquidity Facilities Maximum Borrowing Lending Limit Maximum limit on total borrowing and lending under intercompany liquidity facilities calculated as a percentage of the respective insurance subsidiary's statutory admitted assets as of the previous year end. Funding agreements issued to certain SPEs Funding Agreements Issued To Certain Special Purpose Entities Amount of funding agreements issued during current year to certain special purpose entities that have issued debt securities for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements. Funding Agreements Repaid To Certain Special Purpose Entities Funding Agreements Repaid To Certain Special Purpose Entities Amount of funding agreements repaid during current year to certain SPEs that have issued debt securities for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements. Outstanding Funding Agreements To Certain Special Purpose Entities Outstanding Funding Agreements To Certain Special Purpose Entities Amount of funding agreements outstanding to certain SPEs that have issued debt securities for which payment of interest and principal is secured by such funding agreements. Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Interest rate contracts Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Equity market contracts Equity Contract [Member] Embedded derivatives direct and assumed guaranteed minimum benefits Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Market Approach Valuation Technique Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Income Approach Valuation Technique Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Mortality Rates Range [Axis] Mortality Rates Range Mortality Rates Range [Domain] Mortality Rates Range Ages 0 - 40 Mortality Rates Range One [Member] Mortality Rates Range One Ages 41 - 60 Mortality Rates Range Two [Member] Mortality Rates Range Two Ages 61 - 115 Mortality Rates Range Three [Member] Mortality Rates Range Three Lapse Rates Duration Range [Axis] Lapse Rates Duration Range Lapse Rates Duration Range [Domain] Lapse Rates Duration Range Durations 1 - 10 Lapse Rates Duration Range One [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range One Durations 11 - 20 Lapse Rates Duration Range Two [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range Two Durations 21 - 116 Lapse Rates Duration Range Three [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range Three Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Matrix Pricing Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Matrix Pricing Matrix Pricing - Price at which a dealer is willing to buy an instrument, used as an input to measure fair value. Offered quotes Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Quoted prices Fair Value Inputs, Quoted prices Quoted prices Swap yield Fair Value Inputs, Swap Yield Swap Yield Correlation Fair Value Inputs Correlation Correlation. Credit spreads Fair Value Inputs, Entity Credit Risk Volatility Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Mortality Rate Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee, Mortality Rate Lapse Rate Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee, Lapse Rate Utilization rates Fair Value Inputs Utilization Rates Fair value inputs utilization rates. Withdrawal rates Fair Value Inputs Withdrawal Rates Fair value inputs withdrawal rates. Long-term equity volatilities Fair Value Inputs Long Term Equity Volatilities Fair value inputs long-term equity volatilities. Nonperformance risk spread Fair Value Inputs, Counterparty Credit Risk Amount of Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI (Effective Portion) Gains Losses Deferred In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss On Derivatives Effective Portion The current period gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income related to the effective portion of derivatives designated in cash flow hedges. Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] DAC and VOBA Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Net Investment Income Credit forwards Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Effect of Cash Flow Hedges on Results of Operations [Abstract] Pension Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Defined benefit plan estimated future benefit payments [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment [Abstract] 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2022 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2023-2027 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Forward Contracts [Member] Currency Swap [Member] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance beginning of period OCI before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications, Tax AOCI before reclassifications, net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Balance end of period Liability for Future Policy Benefits and Policyholder Account Balances [Abstract] Liability for Future Policy Benefits and Policyholder Contract Deposits, Assumptions [Abstract] Participating business as a percentage of gross life insurance policies in-force Participating Policies as Percentage of Gross Insurance in Force Participating business as a percentage of the gross life insurance premiums Life Premiums as Percentage of Gross Premiums Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Table] Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items] Liability For Policyholder Contract Deposits Credited Interest Rate All Applicable Products Liability For Policyholder Contract Deposits Credited Interest Rate All Applicable Products Range of credited interest rate applied to all applicable product policyholder deposits during the stated period. Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Value of Business Acquired and Other Policy-Related Intangibles Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Present Value of Future Insurance Profits [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Table Text Block] Information regarding Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired by Segment Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs And Value Of Business Acquired By Segment [Table Text Block] Carrying (unamortized) amount as of the balance sheet date of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired (also called present value of future profits) by segment. Deferred Sales Inducements of Business Acquired Deferred Sales Inducements [Table Text Block] Value of Distribution Agreements and Customer Relationships Acquired Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Estimated Future Amortization Expense (Credit) Balance at January 1, Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Amortization Amortization of Intangible Assets Balance at December 31, Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Offsetting Assets [Table] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction [Domain] Transaction [Domain] Over the Counter [Member] Exchange Traded [Member] Cleared [Member] Exchange Cleared [Member] Offsetting Assets [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Excluding Accruals Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Excluding Accruals Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial asset or other contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes assets elected not to be offset. Excludes assets not subject to a master netting arrangement and accruals. Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Excluding Accruals Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Excluding Accruals Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial liability or contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes liabilities elected not to be offset. Excludes liabilities not subject to a master netting arrangement and accruals. Amounts offset in the consolidated balance sheet, Assets Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Amounts offset in the consolidated balance sheet, Liabilities Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Estimated fair value of derivative assets presented in the consolidated balance sheets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Estimated fair value of derivative liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheets Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Gross estimated fair value of derivative assets Derivative Asset Gross estimated fair value of derivative liabilities Derivative Liability Cash collateral on derivative assets Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Cash collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset Securities collateral on derivative assets Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities, Offset Amount of obligation to return securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative assets. Securities collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities, Offset Amount of right to receive securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative liabilities. Net amount of derivative assets after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net amount of derivative liabilities after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedules of statutory net income, capital and surplus and reserve strengthening by subsidiary including dividend restrictions Statutory Accounting Practices Disclosure [Table Text Block] Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Table] Variable Annuity Guarantees Variable Annuity [Member] Universal and Variable Life Contracts Universal And Variable Life Contracts [Member] Contracts resulting in claim amounts that the Company would incur if death claims were filed on all contracts on the balance sheet date. Ceded Liabilities For Guarantees Net Ceded and Assumed Liabilities For Guarantees [Member] Net Ceded and Assumed Liabilities for Guarantees. Net Liabilities For Guarantees Net Liabilities For Guarantees [Member] Net liabilities for guarantees. Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Secondary Guarantees Secondary Guarantees [Member] Secondary Guarantees. Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items] Movement In Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross Rollforward Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross Incurred guaranteed benefits (1) Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Incurred Benefits Paid guaranteed benefits Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Payment for Benefits Balance at December 31, Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Net Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Net liabilities for guarantees on long duration contracts reinsurance recoverable incurred benefits net liabilities for guarantees on long duration contracts reinsurance recoverable incurred benefits net liabilities for guarantees on long duration contracts reinsurance recoverable incurred benefits net Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Schedule of Securities by Percent [Axis] Schedule of Securities by Percent [Axis] Schedule Of Securities By Percent Axis. Securities By Percent [Domain] Securities By Percent. 20% or more Twenty Percent Or More [Member] 20% or more Member. Schedule of Securities by Duration [Axis] Schedule Of Securities By Duration Axis. Securities by Duration [Domain] Securities By Duration. Six months or greater Six Months Or Greater [Member] Six months or greater. External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] External Credit Rating, Investment Grade External Credit Rating, Investment Grade [Member] Change in Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) before Taxes Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Number of Securities Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions Fixed Maturities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Fixed Maturities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Investment disclosure of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage. Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Fixed maturity securities relating to variable interest entities Cost of equity securities available-for-sale Mortgage loans valuation allowances Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate Cash and cash equivalents relating to variable interest entities Accrued investment income relating to variable interest entities Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Domain] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Domain] Agricultural Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Portfolio segment of the company's total financing receivables related to agricultural receivables. Residential Residential Portfolio Segment [Member] Commercial Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract] Financing Receivable, Significant Purchases Estimated fair value of mortgage loans held-for-investment Financing Receivable, Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans Classified as Performing Percentage of Mortgage Loans Classified as Performing The percentage of all mortgage loans that are classified as performing. Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Financing Receivable Number of Contract of Recorded Investment Past Due Financing Receivable Number of Contract of Recorded Investment Past Due Reflects the number of financing receivables of recorded investment that are past due at the balance sheet date. Loans and Leases Receivable, Number of Contract, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Loans and Leases Receivable, Number of Contract, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Reflects the number of loans deemed to be questionable as to collection on which no interest is continuing to be recognized. Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts FHLB Common Stock [Abstract] FHLB Common Stock [Abstract] Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Components of Sales or Disposals of Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Proceeds Proceeds from Sale of Insurance Investments Gross investment gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Gross investment losses Available-for-sale Securities, Realized Losses, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings: Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments [Abstract] Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Net investment gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Premiums, Universal Life and Investment-Type Product Policy Fees and Other Revenues by Product Groups Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate contracts Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net Assets [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Short-term investments Mortgage loans at estimated fair value Derivative assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Separate account assets Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Long-term debt, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Future Policy Benefits [Abstract] Future Policy Benefits [Abstract] Participating Life Insurance Policy [Member] Participating Life Insurance Policy [Member] Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policy [Member] Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policy [Member] Fixed Annuity [Member] Fixed Annuity [Member] Other Insurance Product Line [Member] Other Insurance Product Line [Member] Disability Insurance Policy [Member] Disability Insurance Policy [Member] Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate Assumption Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Interest Rate Assumption Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) [Abstract] Carrying Value of investments accounted for under the equity method Equity Method Investments Unfunded commitments for investments accounted for under the equity method Unfunded Commitments For Investments Accounted For Under Equity Method Represents the balance of unfunded commitments related to investments accounted for using the equity method. Aggregate Net income Exceeded Stated Percentage Of The Pre Tax Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations Aggregate Net Income Exceeded Stated Percentage Of Pre Tax Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations This caption represents the aggregate net income exceeded 10% of the pre tax income (loss) from continuing operations. Total assets for investments accounted for under the equity method Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Total liabilities for investments accounted for under the equity method Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities Net Income (loss) for investments accounted for under the equity method Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract] Consolidated Supplementary Insurance Information Supplementary Insurance Information, for Insurance Companies Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information (Parent Company) Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling interest, amounts represented by preferred stock Noncontrolling Interest, Amount Represented by Preferred Stock Insurance Product Line [Axis] Insurance Product Line [Domain] PWL [Member] PWL [Member] Par Whole Life recapture from RGA. Direct Direct Reinsurance [Member] Amounts for all insurance before adding amounts assumed from other insurers or subtracting amounts ceded to other insurers. Assumed Ceded Percentage Of Participating Whole Life Insurance Policies Percentage Of Participating Whole Life Insurance Policies Percentage of ceded participating par whole life business ceded. Other invested assets Policyholder account balances Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Investments Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Investments Securities holdings exposure in single issuer greater than stated percentage of Company's equity Concentration Risk, Percentage Debt Service Coverage Ratio by Range [Axis] Debt Service Coverage Ratio by Range [Axis] Debt Service Coverage Ratio By Range Axis. Debt Service Coverage Ratio by Range [Domain] Debt Service Coverage Ratio by Range [Domain] Debt Service Coverage Ratio By Range Domain. Greater than 1.20x Debt Service Coverage Ratio Range One [Member] Mortgage loans with a debt service coverage ratio of more than 1.20x. 1.00x - 1.20x Debt Service Coverage Ratio Range Two [Member] Mortgage loans with a debt service coverage ratio of 1.00x - 1.20x. Less than 1.00x Debt Service Coverage Ratio Range Three [Member] Mortgage loans with a debt service coverage ratio of less than 1.00x. 76% to 80% Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator Range Three [Member] Mortgage loans with a loan-to-value ratio of 76% to 80%. Greater than 80% Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator Range Four [Member] Mortgage loans with a loan-to-value ratio of greater than 80%. Commercial mortgage loans Loans Receivable, Gross, Commercial, Mortgage % of Total Loans Receivable Commercial Mortgage Percentage Reflects the percentage of the gross carrying amount of unpaid loans issued to businesses to provide financing on existing land or a building, which, pursuant to terms of the underlying debt instrument, are secured at a minimum but possibly exclusively by that real property to the total for all commercial mortgage loans. Mortgages represent permanent financing, and are issued to replace previously existing mortgages or pay off acquisition, development and construction loans, or to provide cash to the borrower. Estimated Fair Value Estimated Fair Value Commercial Mortgage This represents the total estimated fair value for commercial mortgage loans by credit quality indicator by class of receivable. % of Total Estimated Fair Value Commercial Mortgage Percentage This represents the total estimated fair value amount for mortgage loans by credit quality indicator to the total for all mortgage loans. Beginning Balance of DAC Capitalizations of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Additions Net investment gains (losses) of DAC and net derivative gains (losses) of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Net Investment Gains (Losses) Other expenses of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Other Total amortization of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Amortization Expense Unrealized investment gains (losses) of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) Effect of foreign currency translation and other of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment and Other Ending Balance of DAC Beginning Balance of VOBA Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Net investment gains (losses) of VOBA and net derivative gains (losses) of VOBA Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, Realized Gain (Loss) Other expenses of VOBA Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits Amortization Expense Other Expenses Amount of amortization of present value of future insurance profits related to other expenses. Total amortization of VOBA Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense Unrealized investment gains (losses) of VOBA Effects of Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Present Value of Future Insurance Profits Ending Balance of VOBA Balance at December 31, Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries Income (Loss) from Subsidiaries, before Tax Other revenues Total revenues Expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses [Abstract] Credit facility fees Total expenses Net income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Net Embedded Derivatives Capital contributions Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Capital Contribution Change in additional paid in capital as a result of a capital contribution, including transfers of ownership. Distribution from subsidiary CashDistributionsPaidToParentCompanyByConsolidatedSubsidiariesOperating This element represents disclosure of the aggregate cash distributions paid to the entity by consolidated subsidiaries, classified as operating activities. Schedule of Long-term Debt and Collateral Financing Arrangement Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivative Instruments Notional Amount Assets Liabilities By Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments Notional Amount Assets Liabilities By Hedging Relationship Axis. Fair Value Hedges [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Interest rate floors Interest Rate Floor [Member] Interest rate caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate futures Futures [Member] Futures. Interest rate options Interest Rate Swaption [Member] Credit default swaps — purchased Credit Default Swap, Buying Protection [Member] Credit default swaps — written Credit Default Swap, Selling Protection [Member] Equity futures Equity Futures [Member] Equity Futures Member. Equity index options Equity Option [Member] Equity variance swaps Variance Swap [Member] Total rate of return swaps [Member] Total Return Swap [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Gross Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Estimated Fair Value Liabilities Due to Related Parties Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Table] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Table] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items] Direct Premiums, Life Insurance in Force Life Insurance in Force, Gross Premiums, Net, Life Insurance in Force Life Insurance in Force, Net Life Insurance in Force Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net Life Insurance in Force, Percentage Assumed to Net Consolidated Reinsurance Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract] Gross Amount Reinsurance ceded Assumed Net premiums % Amount Assumed to Net Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Value Of Distribution Agreements And Value Of Customer Relationships Acquired Intangible Asset [Member] Value Of Distribution Agreements And Value Of Customer Relationships Acquired Intangible Asset [Member] Value of distribution agreements and value of customer relationships acquired intangible asset. Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Parent shareholders' percentage [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Unrealized gains related to equity securities Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] CME update impact [Member] CME update impact [Member] Impact to financial statements items due to the implementation of the amended Chicago Mercantile Exchange rulebook. Joint ventures, previously accounted for under the cost method, from cost to fair value Adjustments for New Accounting Principle, Early Adoption [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Payables For Collateral Under Securities Loaned And Other Transactions Common Stock Distribution by Parent Common Stock Retained by Parent Reinsurance Policy, Type [Axis] Reinsurance Policy [Domain] Nonperformance Risk [Member] Nonperformance Risk [Member] Non-performance Risk Options embedded in debt or equity securities [Member] Securities (Assets) [Member] Ceded guaranteed minimum benefits Direct guaranteed minimum benefits Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Deferred Fixed Annuity [Member] Deferred Fixed Annuity [Member] Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits Deferred Fixed Annuity [Member] Fixed annuities with equity indexed returns Funds Withheld On Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance. Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Receivables [Member] Portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity. Includes disclosure of claims held for amounts due a company. Examples include trade accounts receivables, notes receivables, loans receivables. Other invested assets Other invested assets [Member] Other invested assets. Investments Policyholder account balances Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Related Party Transactions (Narrative) [Abstract] Related Party Transactions (Narrative) [Abstract] Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Capital Contributions [Abstract] Capital Contributions [Abstract] Non-cash Capital Contribution Non-cash Contribution [Member] Non-cash Contribution. Cash Capital Contribution Cash Capital Contribution [Member] Cash Capital Contribution. Accrued capital contributions Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Accrued Capital Contribution Change in additional paid in capital as a result of accrued capital contributions, including accrued premiums, reinsurance and other receivables and shareholder's equity. Distribution to MetLife, Inc. Payments of Distributions to Affiliates Dividends paid to a former affiliate Payments of Dividends Cash distributions to former affiliates related to a profit sharing agreement Incentive Distribution, Distribution Income Statement [Abstract] Earnings per common share Net income available to common shareholders per common share Net income available to common shareholders per common share. Basic Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Premiums Universal life and investment-type product policy fees Net investment gains (losses): Gain (Loss) on Investments [Abstract] Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net, Available-for-sale Securities Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss) Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion in Other Comprehensive Loss, before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities Total net investment gains (losses) Policyholder benefits and claims Net income (loss) Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Subtotal Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Subtotal Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current and Deferred: Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Table] Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Table] Life Run-off Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items] Future Policy Benefits and Other Policy-Related Balances Supplementary Insurance Information Future Policy Benefits Other Policy Related Balances And Policyholder Dividend Obligation The sum of the following as of the balance sheet date: 1) The known and estimated amounts payable as of the balance sheet date to policyholders pertaining to insured events for long-duration contracts, which can be viewed as either (a) the present value of future benefits to be paid to or on behalf of policyholders and expenses less the present value of future net premiums payable under the insurance contracts or (b) the accumulated amount of net premiums already collected less the accumulated amount of benefits and expenses already paid to or on behalf of policyholders, 2) The liability to the policyholders for funds held that are returnable under the terms of insurance contracts that were not separately reported and 3) The excess of the cumulative actual closed block earnings over the cumulative expected (actuarially determined) closed block earnings (each) for the period from the actuarial calculation date to the date of measurement. The excess will result in future dividends to closed block policyholders, unless offset by less favorable than expected future performance of the closed block. The policyholder dividend obligation, which may not have a negative balance, recognizes that a portion of earnings in certain cases will not inure to the stockholders of the insurance entity. Unearned Premiums Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums Unearned Revenue Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Revenue Amount of revenue not yet earned and included within the future policy benefits, other policy-related balances and policyholder dividend obligations. Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Consolidated Securitization Entities Company-held mortgage loans held-for-investment, net Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Percentage of loans receivable on commercial mortgage loans Percentage Of Loans Receivable Commercial Mortgage To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Commercial Mortgage Loans Receivable to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Agricultural mortgage loans Percentage of loans receivable on agricultural mortgage loans Percentage Of Loans Receivable Commercial Agricultural To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Commercial Agricultural Loans Receivable to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Residential mortgage loans Percentage of loans receivable on residential mortgage loans Percentage Of Loans And Leases Receivable Consumer Mortgage To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Consumer Mortgage Loans and Leases Receivable to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Subtotal (1) Mortgage Loans Held For Investment The balance represents the amount of loans that are secured by real estate mortgages. Percentage of loans receivable on subtotal Percentage Of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Valuation allowances (2) Percentage of loans receivable on valuation allowances Percentage Of Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses Real Estate To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses on Real Estate to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Subtotal mortgage loans, net Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount Percentage of loans receivable on subtotal mortgage loans held-for-investment, net Percentage Of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment Net To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans Held-for-investment, net to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Percentage of loans receivable on commercial mortgage loans held by consolidated securitization entities - fair value option Percentage Of Commercial Mortgage Loans Held By Consolidated Securitization Entities Fair Value Option To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Commercial Mortgage Loans Held By Consolidated Securitization Entities Fair Value Option to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Total mortgage loans, net Percentage of total mortgage loans, net Percentage Of Mortgage Loans On Real Estate To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans On Real Estate to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Leveraged Leases [Abstract] Loans and Leases Receivable, Other Information Loans and Leases Receivable, Other Information Loans and Leases Receivable, Ratio of Performing Loans to All Loans Loans and Leases Receivable, Ratio of Performing Loans to All Loans Reflects the percentage of performing loans. Deferred income tax liability related to leveraged leases Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Deferred Taxes Arising from Leveraged Leases Aaa/Aa/A Aaa Aa [Member] Aaa Aa A Member. Baa Baa [Member] Baa. Ba Ba [Member] Ba Member. Credit Derivatives by Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Weighted Average Years to Maturity Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity Related Party Transactions, By Related Party [Abstract] Related Party Transactions, By Related Party [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Recurring Fair Value Measurements Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Quantitative Information Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Quantitative Information Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value Option Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Fixed Maturities [Member] Public utilities Public Utility, Bonds [Member] All other corporate bonds Other Corporate Bonds [Member] Total bonds Bonds [Member] Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities Mortgage Backed And Asset Backed Securities [Member] Mortgage backed and asset backed securities. Redeemable preferred stock Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member] Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member] Non-redeemable preferred stock Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Industrial, miscellaneous and all other Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member] Public utilities Public Utility, Equities [Member] Held-for-investment Mortgage Loans Held For Investment [Member] Residential mortgage loans held for investment, for which the FVO was elected. Mortgage loans Policy loans Real estate joint ventures Short-term investments Short-term Investments [Member] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items] Cost or Amortized Cost Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost Estimated Fair Value Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount Real Estate Investments, Net Other limited partnership interests Amount at Which Shown on Balance Sheet Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value Percentage Estimated Fair Value Percentage Estimated Fair Value This percentage represents the net estimated fair value of freestanding derivatives. Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Compensation Labor and Related Expense Commissions Noninterest Expense Commission Expense Volume-related costs Cost of Services, Overhead Interest Expense, Related Party Interest Expense, Related Party Capitalization of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Capitalization Capitalization of deferred policy acquisition costs recorded on the statement of operations Interest expense on debt Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Premium taxes, licenses and fees Direct Taxes and Licenses Costs Professional services Professional Fees Rent and related expenses Operating Leases, Rent Expense Other Other General and Administrative Expense Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities by contractual maturity date Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Continuous Gross Unrealized Loss and OTTI Loss for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Mortgage Loans Net of Valuation Allowance Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Investment in leveraged leases Schedule of Components of Leveraged Lease Investments [Table Text Block] Components of net unrealized investment gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Securities Lending Schedule of Securities Financing Transactions [Table Text Block] Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral Purchased credit impaired investments, by invested asset class, held Accounting for Certain Loans and Debt Securities Acquired in Transfer Disclosure [Text Block] The Components of Net Investment Income Investment Income [Table Text Block] The components of net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains and losses Proceeds From Sales Or Disposals Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities And Components Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities Net Investment Gains And Losses [Table Text Block] This table presents the proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains and losses. Rollforward of the Cumulative Credit Loss Component of OTTI income (loss) Roll Forward Of Cumulative Credit Loss Component Of Otti Income Loss [Table Text Block] Rollforward of cumulative credit loss component of OTTI loss recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities still held, for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Securitizations or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Securitizations or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale [Table Text Block] Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Residential mortgage loans portfolio segment [Member] Residential mortgage loans portfolio segment. Disclosure of the mortgage loans portfolio segment by the recorded investment, prior to valuation allowances, by credit quality indicator categories Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Revenues Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Table] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Table] Variable Annuity and Variable Life Variable Annuity And Variable Life [Member] Variable Annuity and Variable Life. Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Axis] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment, Category [Domain] Balanced Balanced Funds [Member] Equity Equity Funds [Member] Bond Bond Funds [Member] Bond funds. Money Market Money Market Funds [Member] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items] Fund Groupings Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment, Fair Value Retirement Plan Funding Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Funding Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Funding Status [Domain] Retirement Plan Funding Status [Domain] Unfunded Plan [Member] Unfunded Plan [Member] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Axis] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Domain] Retirement Plan Tax Status [Domain] Nonqualified Plan [Member] Nonqualified Plan [Member] Change in benefit obligations: Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligations at January 1, Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Interest costs Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Plan participants’ contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Contributions by Plan Participant Net actuarial (gains) losses Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Change in benefits Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Increase (Decrease) for Plan Amendment Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Benefit obligations at December 31, Change in plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Plan Participant Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Plan Participant Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Estimated fair value of plan assets at January 1, Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Estimated fair value of plan assets at December 31, Over (under) funded status at December 31, Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Other assets Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan Other liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan Net amount recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss: Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial (gains) losses Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (Loss), before Tax Prior service costs (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, before income tax Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, before Tax Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Qualified Plan [Member] Qualified Plan [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Cost (Reversal of Cost) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Cost (Reversal of Cost) Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Provision for income tax from continuing operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Income tax for continuing operations effective rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Tax Credit Carryforwards Summary of Tax Credit Carryforwards [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Consolidated securitization entities Consolidated Entities [Member] Variable Interest, maximum exposure to loss in consolidated securitization entities Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] U.S. corporate and foreign corporate Separate account assets Separate account assets [Member] Separate Account Assets Member. Net Derivatives NetDerivatives [Member] The derivative assets and liabilities measured with unobservable inputs, including interest rate contracts, foreign currency exchange rate contracts, credit contracts, and equity market contracts. Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance at December 31, Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at end of period Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Purchases Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Purchases Sales Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Sales Issuances Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Issues Settlements Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance at December 31, Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at end of period Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Brighthouse Life Insurance Company [Member] Brighthouse Life Insurance Company [Member] Brighthouse Life Insurance Company [Member] New England Life Insurance Company [Member] New England Life Insurance Company [Member] New England Life Insurance Company [Member] Scenario, Forecast Permitted w/o Approval Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments without Regulatory Approval Payments of Dividends Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Shareholder’s Net Investment Shareholder's net investment [Member] Shareholder's net investment [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Brighthouse Financial, Inc.'s Stockholders’ Equity Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Total Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity, Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Change in shareholders Net Investment Change in shareholders Net Investment Change in shareholders Net Investment Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Other Separation related transactions Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance Effect of reinsurance Effects of Reinsurance [Table Text Block] Insurance Liabilities By Segment [Table] Insurance Liabilities By Segment [Table] A table reflecting insurance liabilities by segment. Insurance Liabilities [Line Items] Insurance Liabilities [Line Items] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Insurance liabilities comprised of future policy benefits, policyholder account balances and other policy-related balances Insurance Liabilities Comprised Of Future Policy Benefits, Policyholder Account Balances And Other Policy-Related Balances The liability as of the balance sheet date to policyholders pertaining to insured events for long-duration contracts, deposits held under the terms of insurance contracts and for funds held that are returnable under the terms of insurance contracts that were not separately reported. Also includes unearned premiums and negative value of business acquired. Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities by Type of Risk [Axis] Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities Risk [Axis] Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities, Type [Domain] Risks Inherent in Servicing Assets and Servicing Liabilities, Type [Domain] Credit derivatives — purchased Credit derivatives — written Consolidated Reinsurance Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Text Block] Total assets held for insolvency assessments Loss Contingency, Receivable Loss Contingency, Insurance-related Assessment [Abstract] Loss Contingency, Insurance-related Assessment [Abstract] Other Assets: Other Assets [Abstract] Premium tax offset for future discounted and undiscounted assessments Loss Contingency Accrual, Insurance-related Assessment, Premium Tax Offset Premium tax offsets currently available for paid assessments Loss Contingency Accrual Insurance Related Assessment Premium Tax Offset Currently Available The currently available amount of insurance-related assessment liability that can be recovered through a premium tax offset based on current laws applied to in-force policies. Other Liabilities: Other Liabilities [Abstract] Insolvency assessments Loss Contingency, Undiscounted Amount of Insurance-related Assessment Liability Metlife Investment Advisors, LLC [Member] Metlife Investment Advisors, LLC [Member] Metlife Investment Advisors, LLC [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Contract Termination [Member] Related Party Loan One [Member] Related Party Loan One [Member] Related Party Loan One [Member] Related Party Loan Two [Member] Related Party Loan Two [Member] Related Party Loan Two [Member] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Capital Contribution Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Interest Rate Contract [Member] Credit Risk Contract [Member] Equity Contract [Member] Policyholder Benefit And Claim [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness is Immaterial Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness is Immaterial Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Gains Losses Deferred In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss On Derivatives Effective Portion Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization expenses Other Depreciation and Amortization Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts associated with investments, net Accretion (Amortization) of Discounts and Premiums, Investments (Gains) losses on investments, net (Gains) losses on derivatives, net (Gains) Losses On Derivatives Net The net realized (gain) loss on derivatives settled during the period, net. (Income) loss from equity method investments, net of dividends and distributions Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Interest credited to policyholder account balances Universal life and investment-type product policy fees Change in accrued investment income Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Investment Income Receivable Change in premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Change in deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired, net Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Change in income tax Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Change in other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Change in future policy benefits and other policy-related balances Increase (Decrease) in Insurance Liabilities Change in other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Sales, maturities and repayments of fixed maturity securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Sales, maturities and repayments of equity securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Sales, maturities and repayments of mortgage loans Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Mortgage Notes Receivable Sales, maturities and repayments of real estate and real estate joint ventures Proceeds from Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures Sales, maturities and repayments of other limited partnership interests Proceeds from Limited Partnership Investments Purchases of fixed maturity securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Purchases of equity securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Purchases of mortgage loans Payments to Acquire Mortgage Notes Receivable Purchases of real estate and real estate joint ventures Payments to Acquire Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures Purchases of other limited partnership interests Payments to Acquire Limited Partnership Interests Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives The cash inflow provided by derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as investing activities, including both hedging and non-hedging instruments. Cash paid in connection with freestanding derivatives Cash Paid In Connection With Freestanding Derivatives The cash outflow provided by derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as investing activities, including both hedging and non-hedging instruments. Cash received under repurchase agreements Proceeds from (Payments for) in Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase Cash paid under repurchase agreements Payments for Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase The cash outflow associated with agreements to repurchase investments from counterparties. Cash received under reverse repurchase agreements Proceeds from Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell Cash paid under reverse repurchase agreements Payments for Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell Sale of loans to a former affiliate Proceeds from Sale of Loans Receivable Receipts on loans to a former affiliate Proceeds from Collection of Loans Receivable Net change in policy loans Payments for (Proceeds from) Policy Loans Net change in short-term investments Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Net change in other invested assets Net Change In Other Invested Assets The net cash outflow (inflow) from other investing activities including derivative instruments, leveraged leases and other invested assets. Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Policyholder account balances: Deposits Proceeds from Annuities and Investment Certificates Policyholder account balances: Withdrawals Repayments of Annuities and Investment Certificates Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions. Long-term debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Long-term debt repaid Repayments of Long-term Debt Collateral financing arrangement repaid Repayments of Secured Debt Distribution to MetLife, Inc. Cash received from MetLife, Inc. in connection with shareholder’s net investment Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Cash paid to MetLife, Inc. in connection with shareholder’s net investment Payments of Capital Distribution Financing element on certain derivative instruments and other derivative related transactions, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of change in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents balances Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents, end of year Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Net cash paid (received) for interest Interest Paid Net cash paid (received) for income tax Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash transactions: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Transfer of fixed maturity securities from former affiliates Transfer to Investments Transfer of mortgage loans from former affiliates Transfers of Mortgage Loans From Affiliates Value of mortgages transferred from the entity's affiliates in noncash transactions. Transfer of short-term investments from former affiliates Transfer of Short-Term Investments From Affiliates Value of short-term investments transferred from the entity's affiliates in noncash transactions. Transfer of fixed maturity securities to former affiliates Transfer from Investments Reduction of other invested assets in connection with affiliated reinsurance transactions Reduction of other invested assets in connection with a reinsurance transaction Reduction of other invested assets in connection with a reinsurance transaction Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with reinsurance transactions Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with a reinsurance transactions Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with a reinsurance transactions Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Exchange Cleared [Member] Estimated Fair Value Assets Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Excess cash collateral received on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Excess securities collateral received on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Excess securities collateral provided on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities Securities collateral received which the company is permitted to sell or repledge, amount that has been sold or repledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct & Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Member. Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Immateriality of cash flow effectiveness Excess securities collateral provided on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties Securities Loaned, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Percentage Of US Treasury And Agency Securities At Estimated Fair Value Of Securities On Loan Relating To Cash Collateral On Open Percentage Of US Treasury And Agency Securities At Estimated Fair Value Of Securities On Loan Relating To Cash Collateral On Open The percentage of US Treasury and agency securities at estimated fair value of securities on loan relating to cash collateral on open. Percentage of Reinvestment Portfolio in Fixed Maturity Securities Percentage of Reinvestment Portfolio in Fixed Maturity Securities The percentage of the reinvestment portfolio acquired with the cash collateral consists mainly of Fixed maturities. Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] General business tax credit carryforward General Business Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Other Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Other Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Other tax credit carryforwards not included in general business, research or investment tax credit carryforwards or capital loss carryforwards. Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Tax Authority Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Expiration Date by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] 2018-2022 Expiration Period First Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the first four years by deferred tax asset type. 2023-2027 Expiration Period Second Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the second four years by deferred tax asset type. 2028-2032 Expiration Period Third Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the third four years by deferred tax asset type. 2033-2037 Indefinite Expiration Period For Indefinite Number Of Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for indefinite number of years by deferred tax asset type. Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Tax credit carryforwards Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount MRSC (collateral financing arrangement (primarily securities)) Total assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Total liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Total assets Separate account liabilities Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Loans Acquired In Transfer [Axis] Loans Acquired In Transfer. Loans Acquired In Transfer [Domain] Loans Acquired In Transfer. Investments purchased Investments Purchased [Member] Investments Purchased. Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accretable yield on purchased distressed assets acquired Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield Movement Schedule [Roll Forward] Accretable yield, January 1, Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield Investments purchased Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Additions Accretion recognized in earnings Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Accretion Disposals Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Disposals of Loans Reclassification (to) from nonaccretable difference Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference Accretable yield, December 31, Consolidated Entities [Axis] Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items] Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount Description of Regulatory Capital Requirements under Insurance Regulations Description of Regulatory Capital Requirements under Insurance Regulations Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits) (1) Invested assets held in trust (reinsurance agreements) (2) Invested assets pledged as collateral (3) Invested Assets Pledged As Collateral Invested assets pledged as collateral. Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral Assets On Deposit Held In Trust And Pledged As Collateral The sum of the fair values, as of the date of each statement of financial position presented, of securities that are restricted as collateral for the payment of related debt obligations, primarily secured borrowings and repurchase agreements, and that are reclassified and separately reported in the statement of financial position because the transferee has the right by contract or custom to sell or re-pledge them. Income Tax Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Annuities Premiums and Universal Life and Investment-Type Product Policy Fees Supplementary Insurance Information Premium Revenue And Policy Charges Sum of premiums earned on the income statement for all insurance and reinsurance contracts after subtracting any amounts ceded to another insurer and adding premiums assumed from other insurers, and income from agency and brokerage operations (includes sales of annuities and supplemental contracts); service charges, commissions, and fees from the sale of insurance and related services; and management fees from separate accounts, deferred annuities, and universal life products. May also include an entity's proportionate share of the income or loss before extraordinary items and other adjustments from its investments in: unconsolidated subsidiaries, associated companies, and corporate joint ventures, unincorporated joint ventures, general partnerships, and limited partnerships over which the entity exercises significant influence that are principally engaged in insurance underwriting, reinsurance, or insurance sales activities. Net Investment Income Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income Policyholder Benefits and Claims and Interest Credited to Policyholder Account Balances Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense Other Expenses Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense Continuous Gross Unrealized Loss and OTTI Loss for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Less than 12 months Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Equal to or Greater than 12 Months Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position less than 12 months Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position equal to or greater than 12 months Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Greater than or Equal to One Year FHLB Liabilities and Collateral [Abstract] FHLB Liabilities and Collateral [Abstract] Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank, Amount of Advances Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank, Amount of Advances Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Statements of Cash Flows Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income (loss) Equity in (earnings) losses of subsidiaries Sales of fixed maturity securities Purchases of fixed maturity securities Capital contributions to subsidiaries Capital Contributions To Subsidiaries The cash outflow associated with the amount paid to the subsidiaries during the period. Long-term and short-term debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Credit facility fees Payments of credit facility fees The cash outflow for the cost associated with the fee for available but unused credit capacity under the credit facility. Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash received from MetLife, Inc. for income tax Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds Income tax paid by Brighthouse Financial, Inc. Income Taxes Paid Net cash paid (received) for income tax Schedule of Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Table] Schedule of Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Table] Invested Assets Transferred To and From Affiliates Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Line Items] Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred to affiliates Assets Transferred To Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of assets transfered to affiliates. Amortized cost of invested assets transferred to former affiliates Transfers of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale, Amortized Cost of Assets Obtained as Proceeds Represents the amortized cost of assets received on transfer of financial assets in a securitization, asset-backed financing arrangement, or a similar transfer which transaction is recognized as a sale of the transferred financial assets. Net investment gains (losses) recognized on transfers Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale, Gain (Loss) on Sale Change additional paid-in-capital recognized on transfers Change Additional Paid In Capital Recognized On Transfers Reflect the change of additional paid in capital on equity type investments such as real estate and real estate joint ventures. Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from former affiliates Assets Transferred From Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates. Corporate fixed maturity securities [Member] Fair Value Option General Account Securities [Member] This caption presents trading securities fair value of general account securities. Fair value of plan assets Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments, Bank Credit Facilities, Bridge Loans and Private Corporate Bond Investments Commitments to Extend Credit [Member] Mortgage Loan Commitments Loan Origination Commitments [Member] Secured Demand Notes [Member] Secured Demand Notes [Member] Secured Demand Notes. Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Disclosure Information [Line Items] Off-balance sheet commitments Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Face Amount, Liability Fair value of collateral transferred to custody accounts to secure certain demand notes Security Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Fair Value Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Textuals) [Abstract] Contingencies Commitments And Guarantees Textuals [Abstract] Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees. Indemnities and guarantees contractual limitation range Indemnities And Guarantees Contractual Limitation Range The range of the contractual limitation for guarantees and indemnities. Cumulative maximum indemnities and guarantees contractual limitation Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Liabilities for indemnities, guarantees and commitments Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Other Expenses Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Assumptions used in determining net periodic benefit costs [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Weighted average discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Weighted average expected rate of return on plan assets Industrial Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Consumer Consumer Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Consumer Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Utility Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals Gain (Loss) on Sale of Debt Investments Equity securities — net gains (losses) on sales and disposals Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Other net investment gains (losses): Realized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract] Mortgage Loans Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Real estate and real estate joint ventures Gains (Losses) on Sales of Investment Real Estate Other limited partnership interests Gains Losses On Sales Of Other Limited Partnerships The net gain (loss) resulting from sales and other disposals of other limited partnership interests. Other Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Subtotal portfolio gains (losses) Investment Portfolio Gains Losses This item represents the subtotal of gains (losses)on the investment portfolio. FVO CSEs - changes in estimated fair value: Consolidated Securitization Entities [Abstract] Consolidated securitization entities. Commercial mortgage loans Gains Losses On Commercial Mortgage Loans Held By Consolidated Securitization Entities Fair Value Option The net gain or loss resulting from the change in fair value of commercial mortgage loans held by consolidated securitization entities not required to be reported separately in the statement of income for which the Company has elected the fair value option. Long-term debt — related to commercial mortgage loans Gains Losses On Long Term Debt Of Consolidated Securitization Entities Related To Mortgage Loans Fair Value Option The net gain or loss resulting from the sale or disposal of long-term debt relating to mortgage loans of consolidated securitization entities not required to be reported separately in the statement of income for which the Company has elected the fair option. Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets Subtotal Gains Losses On Assets And Liabilities Held By Consolidated Securitizations Entities Under Fair Value Option And All Other Gains Losses The net gain or loss incurred on assets and liabilities held by consolidated securitizations entities and all other gains and losses. Total net investment gains (losses) Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Guaranteed Death Benefits Guaranteed Annuitization Benefits Annuitization Benefit [Member] Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items] Total account value Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, General Account Value Separate account value Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value Net amount at risk Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk Average attained age of contractholders Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age Assumed Insurance Commissions And Fees Insurance Commissions and Fees Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed and Ceded Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed and Ceded Operating Expenses Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Financial or other support investees designated as VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Policyholder Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Policyholder Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Future Policy Benefits Liability, Policy [Policy Text Block] Future Policy Benefits Liability, Policy [Policy Text Block] Minimum Guarantees, Policy [Policy Text Block] Minimum Guarantees, Policy [Policy Text Block] Insurance Premiums Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Insurance Premiums Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Sales Inducements to Contract Holders, Policy [Policy Text Block] Sales Inducements to Contract Holders, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reinsurance Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] Reinsurance Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Expenses Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax [Abstract] Total net derivative gains (losses) Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Estimated Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Mortgage loans Fair Value Mortgage Loans Net Not On Recurring Basis Total amount of mortgage loans not valued on a recurring basis as of the balance sheet date. Policy loans Real estate joint ventures Real Estate Investments, Joint Ventures Other limited partnership interests Other Limited Partnership Interests, Fair Value Disclosure The fair value portion of investments in other limited partnership interests. Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Receivables, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposits, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value portion of the liability of policyholders for deposits held under the terms of insurance contracts. Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Earnings per Common Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Universal and Variable Life Contracts Universal Life [Member] Variable Life [Member] Variable Life [Member] Total account value (3) Net Amount At Risk By Product And Guarantee General And Separate Account Value Value of the separate and general accounts corresponding to the specified product, guarantee type and subset of the guarantee. Net amount at risk (6) Average attained age of policyholders Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Purchased credit impaired investments as of their respective acquisition dates Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Acquired [Abstract] Contractually required payments (including interest) Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Acquired, Contractually Required Payments Receivable at Acquisition Cash flows expected to be collected (1) Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Acquired, Cash Flows Expected to be Collected at Acquisition Fair value of investments acquired Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Accounted for as Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Acquired, at Acquisition, at Fair Value Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Unrealized investment gains (losses), net of related offsets Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Defined benefit plans adjustment Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), before income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Income tax (expense) benefit related to items of other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest