Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] U.S. government and agency US Treasury and Government [Member] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Remaining Tenor of Securities Lending Agreements: Open Maturity Overnight [Member] Remaining Tenor of Securities Lending Agreements: 1 Month or Less Maturity Less than 30 Days [Member] Remaining Tenor of Securities Lending Agreements: 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] Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Cash collateral received from counterparties Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Associated Liabilities, Carrying Amount Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Spinoff Spinoff [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Common Stock Distribution by Parent Common Stock Distribution by Parent Percentage of common stock that parent intends to distribute Common Stock Retained by Parent Common Stock Retained by Parent Percentage of common stock retained by parent. Number of Reportable Segments Number of Reportable Segments Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Annuities Annuities [Member] Annuities. 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] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total assets Assets Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Premiums Premiums Earned, Net Universal life and investment-type product policy fees Insurance Commissions and Fees Net investment income Net Investment Income Other revenues Other Income Net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Investments Net derivative gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Total revenues Revenues Expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses [Abstract] Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Net Interest credited to policyholder account balances Policyholder Account Balance, Interest Expense Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Other expenses Operating Expenses Total expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses Income (loss) before provision for income tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Brighthouse Financial, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: Preferred stock dividends Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Net income (loss) available to Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Brighthouse Financial, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Securities Financing Transaction, Type [Domain] Estimated fair value Securities Financing Transaction, Fair Value [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Securities Investment Securities Investment [Member] Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties Securities Loaned, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Percentage of 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. Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost Mortgage loans valuation allowances Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] U.S. corporate Debt Security, Corporate, US [Member] RMBS Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Foreign corporate Debt Security, Corporate, Non-US [Member] CMBS Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] State and political subdivision US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] ABS Asset-backed Securities [Member] Foreign government Debt Security, Government, Non-US [Member] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross Unrealized Temporary Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Gross Unrealized OTTI Losses 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. Fixed maturity securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Insurance [Abstract] Insurance Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] Material VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Material Existence Number of material Variable Interest Entities (VIE) about which the entity is required to make GAAP disclosures. Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Amortized cost Securities Financing Transaction, Cost [Member] Securities on loan Securities Loaned Security collateral received 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. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] 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 Income (1) Revenue from Related Parties Expense (2) Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring Fair Value, Recurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [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] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit Credit Risk Contract [Member] Equity market Equity Contract [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Short-term Investments Short-term Investments Derivative assets: (1) Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Separate account assets Separate Account Asset Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liabilities: (1) Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Domain] Restatement [Domain] Restatement adjustment Restatement Adjustment [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses), Net of Related Offsets (1) AOCI, Accumulated Gain (Loss), Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Parent [Member] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent [Member] 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] AOCI Attributable to Parent AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance, beginning of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Restated 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 Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net income (loss) available to Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s common shareholders Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of share-based awards Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted average common shares outstanding - Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings per common share - Basic Earnings per common share - Diluted Antidilutive stock options excluded from the computation of earnings per common share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits) Deposit Assets Invested assets held in trust (reinsurance agreements) Assets Held-in-trust Invested assets pledged as collateral Invested Assets Pledged As Collateral Invested assets pledged as collateral. Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral Invested Assets On Deposit Held In Trust And Pledged As Collateral The element presents the invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral. 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 [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Equity Component [Domain] Net unrealized investment gains (losses): Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives - cash flow hedges: Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest rate forwards Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign currency swaps Currency Swap [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Net Investment Income Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Income tax (expense) benefit Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table] Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other invested assets Other invested assets [Member] Other invested assets. Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Percentage Estimated Fair Value Percentage Estimated Fair Value This percentage represents the net estimated fair value of freestanding derivatives. Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit default swaps Credit Default Swap [Member] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Aaa/Aa/A Aaa Aa [Member] Aaa Aa A Member. Baa Baa [Member] Baa. Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Weighted Average Years to Maturity (2) Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity 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 [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] Schedule Of Securities By Duration Axis. Securities by Duration [Domain] Securities by Duration [Domain] Securities By Duration. Six months or greater Six Months Or Greater [Member] Six months or greater. Fixed maturity securities Debt Securities [Member] Change in gross unrealized losses of securities in an unrealized loss position Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Tax Gross unrealized losses of securities in an unrealized loss position 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 maturity securities 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. Non-Income Producing Debt Securities Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-income producing debt securities. Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Financing Receivable, Past Due [Table] Financing Receivable, Past Due [Table] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Mortgage Loans Real Estate Loan [Member] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Domain] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Domain] Commercial Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member] Agricultural Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Portfolio segment of the company's total financing receivables related to agricultural receivables. Residential Residential Portfolio Segment [Member] Financial Instrument Performance Status [Axis] Financial Instrument Performance Status [Axis] Financial Instrument Performance Status [Domain] Financial Instrument Performance Status [Domain] Performing Performing Financial Instruments [Member] Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items] Significant Purchases Financing Receivable, Purchase Estimated Fair Value of Recorded Investment Notes Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Recorded Investment as a % of Total Notes Receivable Gross By Performance Status As Percentage Of Notes Receivable Gross Ratio with notes receivable gross by performance status in numerator and total notes receivable gross in the denominator. See NotesReceivableGross for definition of notes receivable gross. Recorded Investment of Loans Past Due Financing Receivable, Past Due Recorded Investment of Loans in Nonaccrual Status Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Fixed Maturity Securities Fixed Maturities [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives in Net Liability Position Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Universal Life Contracts Universal Life [Member] Variable Life Contracts Variable Life [Member] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Secondary Guarantees Secondary Guarantees [Member] Secondary Guarantees. Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items] 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 Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk Average attained age of policyholders Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Guarantees related to Annuity, Universal and Variable Life Contracts Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Common Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] 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 [Table Text Block] Estimated Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities after Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Offsetting [Abstract] Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Derivative Asset, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities, Offset Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities, Offset Amount of obligation to return securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative assets. Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Offset Against Collateral, Net of Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement, Policy Election Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Offset Against Collateral, Net of Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement, Policy Election Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Derivative Liability, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities, Offset Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities, Offset Amount of right to receive securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative liabilities. Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Offset Against Collateral, Net of Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement, Policy Election Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Offset Against Collateral, Net of Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement, Policy Election Amortized Cost, Due in one year or less Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after one year through five years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after five years through ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Through Ten Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Maturity, after 10 Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Structured Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Estimated Fair Value, Due in one year or less Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after one year through five years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after five years through ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after 10 Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Structured Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues Compensation Labor and Related Expense Contracted services and other labor costs Professional Fees Transition services agreements Transition Services Agreements Costs incurred for services provided by the former parent during transition period after spin-off. Establishment costs Establishment Costs Costs incurred related to the establishment of services and infrastructure to replace those previously provided by the former parent prior to spin-off. Premium and other taxes, licenses and fees Cost, Direct Tax and License Separate account fees Custody Fees Volume related costs, excluding compensation, net of DAC capitalization Cost, Overhead Interest expense on debt Interest and Debt Expense Other Other General and Administrative Expense Total other expenses Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Pre-tax adjusted earnings Post-tax adjusted earnings Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests and preferred stock dividends Net Income Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest And Preferred Stock Dividends Income Statement Impact Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest and the amount of preferred stock dividends that is an adjustment to net income apportioned to common stockholders. Combination of us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest and us-gaap_PreferredStockDividendsIncomeStatementImpact Adjusted earnings Operating Income (Loss) Other adjustments to net income Interest revenue Interest Revenue (Expense), Net Interest expense Interest Expense Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 Term Loan Due 2024 Term Loan Due 2024 [Member] Term Loan Due 2024. Term Loan Due 2019 Term Loan Due 2019 [Member] Term Loan due 2019. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Credit facilities, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Limited partnerships and LLCs Limited Partner [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Carrying Amount Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Maximum Exposure to Loss Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input, Mortality Rate Measurement Input, Mortality Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Lapse Rate Measurement Input, Lapse Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Utilization Rate Measurement Input, Utilization Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Withdrawal Rate Measurement Input, Withdrawal Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities [Member] Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities [Member] Measurement Input, Entity Credit Risk Measurement Input, Entity Credit Risk [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Embedded Derivative Liability, Measurement Input Embedded Derivative Liability, Measurement Input Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Debt-to-Value [Axis] Debt-to-Value [Axis] Debt-to-Value [Domain] Debt-to-Value [Domain] Loan-to-Value Ratio, Less than 65% Ltv Less Than 65 Percent [Member] Debt-to-value (DTV) ratio less than 65%. Element name and standard label in DTV Greater Than [low end numeric value] Percent [Member] or DTV Less Than [high end numeric value] Percent [Member] formats. Loan-to-Value Ratio, 65% to 75% Ltv 65 To 75 Percent [Member] Debt-to-value (DTV) ratio from 65 to 75%. Element name and standard label in DTV [numeric lower end] to [numeric higher end] Percent [Member] format. Loan-to-Value Ratio, 76% to 80% Ltv 76 To 80 Percent [Member] Debt-to-value (DTV) ratio from 76 to 80%. Element name and standard label in DTV [numeric lower end] to [numeric higher end] Percent [Member] format. Debt Service Coverage [Axis] Debt Service Coverage [Axis] Debt Service Coverage Ratio By Range Axis. Debt Service Coverage [Domain] Debt Service Coverage [Domain] [Domain] for Debt Service Coverage Ratio By Range Axis. Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than 1.20x Dsc Greater Than 120 Percent [Member] Debt service coverage (DSC) ratio greater than 120% or 1.20x. Element name and standard label in DSC Greater Than [low end numeric value] Percent [Member] or DSC Less Than [high end numeric value] Percent [Member] formats. Debt Service Coverage Ratio, 1.00x to 1.20x Dsc 100 To 120 Percent [Member] Debt service coverage (DSC) ratio from 100% to 120% or 1.00x to 1.20x. Element name and standard label in DSV [numeric lower end] to [numeric higher end] Percent [Member] format. Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less than 1.00x Dsc Less Than 100 Percent [Member] Debt service coverage (DSC) ratio less than 100% or 1.00x. Element name and standard label in DSC Greater Than [low end numeric value] Percent [Member] or DSC Less Than [high end numeric value] Percent [Member] formats. Nonperforming Nonperforming Financial Instruments [Member] Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items] Recorded Investment Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss Recorded Investment as a % of Total Notes Receivable Gross By Loan To Value As Percentage Of Notes Receivable Gross Ratio with notes receivable gross by loan to value ratio in numerator and total notes receivable gross in the denominator. See NotesReceivableGross for definition of notes receivable gross. Estimated Fair Value of Recorded Investment as a % of Total Notes Receivable Fair Value By Loan To Value As Percentage Of Notes Receivable Fair Value Ratio with notes receivable at estimated fair value by loan to value ratio in numerator and total notes receivable at estimated fair value in the denominator. See NotesReceivableFairValueDisclosure for definition of notes receivable at estimated fair value. Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Direct index-linked annuities Direct index-linked annuities [Member] Direct index-linked annuities Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Assumed Assumed Reinsurance [Member] All or part of a ceding company's insurance or reinsurance on a risk or exposure that is accepted. Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments: Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash flow hedges: Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Interest rate swaps Interest rate caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate futures Futures [Member] Futures. Interest rate options Interest Rate Swaption [Member] Interest rate forwards Interest rate forward [Member] Interest-rate forward contracts involve the future sale (or purchase) of a debt instrument with a specification of the actual debt instrument that will be delivered at a future date, amount of the debt instrument to be delivered, price (interest rate) on the debt instrument when it is delivered, and date on which delivery will take place. Foreign currency swaps Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [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] Equity total return swaps Equity Total Return Swaps [Member] Contracts where a set of future cash flows are agreed to be exchanged at set dates in the future and are broken down as floating and equity legs. The floating leg is tied to LIBOR and the equity leg is based on performance of a stock or stock market index. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability 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] Asset Class [Axis] Corporate (1) Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Structured Securities Structured Securities [Member] Structured Securities. State and Political Subdivision Foreign Government Equity Securities Equity Securities [Member] Short-term Investments Short-term Investments [Member] Separate Account Assets (4) Separate account assets [Member] Separate Account Assets Member. Net Derivatives (2) 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. Embedded derivatives Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] 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] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (6) (7) 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 (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Sales (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Issuances (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances Settlements (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance, end of period Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at end of period Fair Value, Asset, Recurring Basis, Still Held, 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, beginning of period Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (5) (6) 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 (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Purchases Sales (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Sales Issuances (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Issues Settlements (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance, end of period 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), Recurring Basis, Still Held, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] 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] Components of net unrealized investment gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, 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. 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. 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, 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) 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). Long-term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Investments: Investments [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $63,115 and $60,920, respectively) Equity securities, at estimated fair value Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $64 and $57, respectively) Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Commercial and Consumer, Net Policy loans Loans, Gross, Insurance Policy Real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Real Estate Investments, Net Other limited partnership interests Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value Other Investments Total investments Investments Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued investment income Accrued Investment Income Receivable Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Current income tax recoverable Income Taxes Receivable Other assets Other Assets Total assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Liability for Future Policy Benefit, after Reinsurance Liability for Future Policy Benefit, after Reinsurance Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposit Other policy-related balances Other Policyholder Funds Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Obligation to Return Securities Received as Collateral Long-term debt Long-term Debt Current income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes Deferred income tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities Other Liabilities Separate account liabilities Separate Account, Liability Total liabilities Liabilities Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 11) Commitments and Contingencies Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; $425 aggregate liquidation preference at September 30, 2019 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 120,614,815 and 120,448,018 shares issued, respectively; 109,264,305 and 117,532,336 shares outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost; 11,350,510 and 2,915,682 shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Total Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Mortgage Loan Commitments Loan Origination Commitments [Member] Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments and Private Corporate Bond Investments Commitments to Extend Credit [Member] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Disclosure Information [Line Items] Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Face Amount, Liability 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 Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimated Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] 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. Other invested assets Other Investments Fair Value Disclosure Fair value portion of other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. 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 Balance, December 31, 2018 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. Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period 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: Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, 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, 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) 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, September 30, 2019 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. Preferred stock, dividend rate Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, liquidation preference per share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Preferred stock issuance costs Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Preferred stock dividend declared per share Preferred Stock, Dividends Per Share, Declared Preferred stock dividend declared Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Stock repurchase program, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Treasury stock, shares acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury stock, value acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Net investment gains (losses), fixed maturity securities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Debt Investments Net investment gains (losses), equity securities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Net investment gains (losses), mortgage loans Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Net investment gains (losses), real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Gains (Losses) on Sales of Investment Real Estate Net investment gains (losses), 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. Net investment gains (losses), other Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Total net investment gains (losses) Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Distribution service Distribution Service [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Interest rate derivatives Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives Credit derivatives Equity derivatives Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Derivatives Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain Loss. Net Investment Income Investment Income [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefit And Claim [Member] Primary financial statement caption encompassing policyholder benefits and claims. Hedging Relationship [Axis] Cash flow hedges: Fair value hedges: Fair Value Hedging [Member] Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments: Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net 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 Amount of Gains (Losses) deferred in AOCI 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. Fixed Maturity Securities AFS by Sector Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Maturities of Fixed Maturity Securities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Continuous Gross Unrealized Losses for Fixed Maturity Securities AFS by Sector Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Credit Quality of Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) 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 Schedule of Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Table Text Block] Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Components of Net Investment Income Investment Income [Table Text Block] Components of Net Investment Gains (Losses) Gain (Loss) on Securities [Table Text Block] Sales or Disposals of Fixed Maturity Securities 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. Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation of Subsidiaries, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Number of segments Other Revenue and Other Expenses Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Annuity Guarantees Variable Annuity [Member] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Guaranteed Death Benefits Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Annuitization Benefits Annuitization Benefit [Member] Total account value (3) 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 Average attained age of contract holders Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Document Type Amendment Flag Document Quarterly Report Document Quarterly Report Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Central Index Key Entity Registrant Name Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Entity Listings [Table] Entity Listings [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share Common Stock [Member] Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 6.600% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series A Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 6.250% Junior Subordinated Debentures due 2058 Subordinated Debt [Member] Entity Listings [Line Items] Entity Listings [Line Items] Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Small Business Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 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 Net investment gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) 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 Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [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 of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] 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 Debt Securities, Available-for-sale 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 limited partnerships and limited liability companies 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 Debt Securities, Available-for-sale 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 limited partnerships and limited liability companies 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. 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. 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 Long-term debt repaid Preferred stock issued, net of issuance costs Dividends on preferred stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock 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 Change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Net cash paid (received) for interest Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Net cash paid (received) for income tax Income Taxes Paid, Net Policyholder account balances Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances. Reinsurance Reinsurance [Member] Affiliated reinsurance. Estimated Fair Value of securities in an unrealized loss position for less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses of securities in an unrealized loss position for less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position for less than 12 months Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year Estimated Fair Value of securities in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or greater Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses of securities in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or greater Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position for 12 months or greater Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Greater than or Equal to One Year Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Equity securities Mortgage loans Mortgages [Member] Policy loans Policy Loans [Member] Real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Real Estate Investment [Member] Other limited partnership interests Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Other Other Investments [Member] Net Investment Income [Line Items] Net Investment Income [Line Items] Gross investment income Gross Investment Income, Operating Less: Investment expenses Investment Income, Investment Expense Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Carrying Value Mortgage loans, gross as a percentage of total mortgage loans, net Percentage Of Loans Receivable To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of loans receivable to total mortgage loans on real estate, net of valuation allowances. Mortgage loans valuation allowances Mortgage loans valuation allowances as a percentage of total mortgage loans, net 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. Total mortgage loans, net Total mortgage loans, net as a 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. Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock at Cost Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s Stockholders’ Equity Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Preferred stock issuance Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle and other, net of income tax Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases Share-based compensation Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, after Forfeiture Dividends on preferred stock Change in noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance