Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Derivative [Member] Derivative [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Off-Balance Sheet [Member] Off-Balance Sheet [Member] Amount of off-balance sheet collateral included in cash collateral provided by the Company. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Assets Transferred To Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Assets Transferred To Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of assets transfered to affiliates. Liabilities Transferred To Affiliates Estimated Fair Value Liabilities Transferred To Affiliates Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of liabilities transferred to affiliates. Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Cash collateral on derivative assets Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Cash collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Nonperformance Risk [Member] Nonperformance Risk [Member] Non-performance Risk Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction [Domain] Transaction [Domain] Over the Counter [Member] Over the Counter [Member] Exchange-cleared [Member] Exchange Cleared [Member] Exchange Traded [Member] Exchange Traded [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] Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct & Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Member. Ceded guaranteed minimum benefits Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Embedded derivatives gains (losses) Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Excess securities collateral received on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Excess securities collateral provided on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Net amounts reclassified into net derivatives gains (losses) on discontinued cash flow hedges Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Hedging exposure to variability in future cash flows for specific length of time Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Deferred net gains (losses) expected to be reclassified to earnings Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged 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] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated Entity [Member] 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 Amortized cost of invested assets transferred to 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 Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates Assets Transferred From Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates. Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Met Life Insurance Company Of Connecticut Met Life Insurance Company Of Connecticut [Member] MetLife Insurance Company Of Connecticut. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Metropolitan Life Insurance Company [Member] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Insurance [Abstract] 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] Insurance Product Line [Axis] Insurance Product Line [Domain] Participating Life Insurance Policies Participating Life Insurance Policies [Member] Participating life insurance contracts allow policyholders to share in the experience of the entity, primarily through policy dividends. Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policies Nonparticipating Life Insurance Policies [Member] In nonparticipating life insurance contracts the company profits are not shared. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items] Interest rate assumptions for the aggregate future policy benefit liabilities for traditional life insurance policies, low end Traditional Life, Interest Rate, Low End Interest rate assumptions for the aggregate future policy benefit liabilities for traditional life insurance policies, high end Traditional Life, Interest Rate, High End Interest rate assumptions for the aggregate future policy benefit liabilities for individual and group traditional fixed annuities after annuitization Individual And Group Traditional Fixed Annuities Interest Rate After Annuitization Range of interest rates used to calculate future benefit liabilities for individual and group traditional fixed annuities after annuitization. Interest rate assumptions for the aggregate future policy benefit liabilities for non-medical health insurance Non Medical Health Insurance Interest Rate Range of interest rates used to calculate future benefit liabilities for non-medical health insurance. Interest rate assumptions for the aggregate future policy benefit liabilities for disabled lives Disability Insurance Interest Rate Range of interest rates used to calculate future benefit liabilities for disability insurance. Interest rate range credited to policyholder account balances 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. Schedule of Federal Home Loan Bank Advances, by Branch of FHLB Bank [Table] Schedule of Federal Home Loan Bank Advances, by Branch of FHLB Bank [Table] Federal Home Loan Bank Branch [Axis] Federal Home Loan Bank Branch [Domain] Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston [Member] Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines [Member] Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh [Member] Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items] Federal Home Loan Bank amount of advances by branch for funding agreements Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank, Amount of Advances Collateral pledged relating to obligations under funding agreements Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, General Debt Obligations, Disclosures, Collateral Pledged Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type [Table] Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type. Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type [Axis] Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type. Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type [Domain] Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type. Funding agreements - Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation Funding Agreements Farmer Mac [Member] Funding Agreements Farmer Mac. Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type [Line Items] Fixed and Floating Rate Funding Agreements by Type. Outstanding funding agreements to certain SPEs 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. Invested Assets Pledged As Collateral Invested assets pledged as collateral. Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] 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. 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%. 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%. Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] 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. 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 [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 Other net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Total 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 Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss 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, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term debt outstanding Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract] Deposit assets in premiums, reinsurance, and other receivables or secondary guarantee risk for reinsurance Deposit Contracts, Assets Deposit liabilities in other liabilities for reinsurance Deposit Contracts, Liabilities Ceded Credit Risk [Table] Ceded Credit Risk [Table] 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] Variable Annuity Exeter D [Member] Variable Annuity Exeter D [Member] Variable Annuity Exeter D [Member] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Axis] Ceded Credit Risk, Collateralization [Domain] Ceded Credit Risk, Unsecured [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] Reinsurance recoverables Reinsurance Recoverables, Ceded Amount of reinsurance recoverable balances in both asset and liability accounts that have been ceded. 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 Recoverables, Allowance Future policy benefits Liability for Future Policy Benefits 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. Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Other assets Other Assets Reinsurance Retention Policy [Table] Reinsurance Policy, Type [Axis] Reinsurance Policy [Domain] Mortality Risk [Member] Mortality risk associated with life insurance. Quota Share Reinsurance for Certain Disability Business [Member] Quota-share reinsurance agreements for certain disability business. Living And Death Benefit Guarantees [Member] Living and death benefit guarantees associated with Retail Annuity business Fixed Annuities [Member] Fixed annuity contracts Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items] Reinsured risk percentage Reinsurance Retention Policy, Reinsured Risk, Percentage Percentage of reinsured risk in excess of stated amount Reinsurance Retention Policy, Excess Retention, Percentage Retention amount Reinsurance Retention Policy, Amount Retained Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Co-funds withheld MrV [Member] Co-funds withheld MrV [Member] Co-funds withheld MrV [Member] Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD2 [Member] Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD2 [Member] Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD2 Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD [Member] Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD [Member] Funds Withheld On Ceded MrD [Member] Separate AC Annuities MLIC [Member] Separate AC Annuities MLIC [Member] Separate Account Annuities MLIC [Member] Co-funds Withheld Exeter [Member] Co-funds Withheld Exeter [Member] Co-funds withheld Exeter. Guaranteed Minimum Benefits Exeter [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Benefits Exeter [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Benefits Exeter [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Benefits MEL [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Benefits MEL [Member] Guaranteed Minimum Benefits MEL [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Reinsurance Retention Policy, Reinsured Risk, Percentage Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Other Liabilities Net derivatives gains (losses) Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Other Assets Other Policy-Related Balances Coinsurance Funds Withheld Basis, Percent Coinsurance Funds Withheld Basis, Percent Percentage of business ceded on a coinsurance funds withheld basis. Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Deposit Contracts, Assets Deposit Contracts, Liabilities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Consolidated Securitization Entities Consolidated Entities [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable interest, maximum exposure to loss in consolidated securitization entities Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Long-term debt held by consolidated securitization entities, percentage range minimum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Long-term debt held by consolidated securitization entities, percentage range maximum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Interest expense on long-term debt held by consolidated securitization entities Interest Expense, Long-term Debt Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Compensation Labor and Related Expense Commissions Noninterest Expense Commission Expense Volume-related costs Cost of Services, Overhead Affiliated interest costs on ceded and assumed reinsurance Interest Expense, Related Party Capitalization of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Additions Amortization of DAC and VOBA Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Profits, Amortization Interest expense on debt Interest and Debt Expense 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 Total other expenses Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Premiums: Premiums Earned [Abstract] Premiums Earned [Abstract] Direct premiums Direct Premiums Earned Reinsurance assumed Assumed Premiums Earned Reinsurance ceded Ceded Premiums Earned Net premiums 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 Other revenues: Component of Operating Income [Abstract] Direct other revenues 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. Reinsurance assumed Commissions Fees And Other Income Assumed Fees, commissions and other revenues assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Reinsurance ceded Other Income Ceded Fees, commissions and other revenues ceded to other insurers as a result of reinsurance agreements. Net other revenues 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 Interest credited to policyholder account balances: Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Direct interest credited to policyholder account balances Direct Interest Credited To Policyholders Account Balances Interest credited to policyholder account balances before adding interest credited to policyholder account balances that have been assumed from other insurers or subtracting interest credited to policyholder account balances that have been ceded to other insurers. Reinsurance assumed Assumed Interest Credited To Policyholders Account Balances Interest credited to policyholder account balances that have been assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance agreements. Reinsurance ceded Ceded Interest Credited To Policyholders Account Balances Interest credited to policyholder account balances that have been ceded to other insurers as a result of reinsurance agreements. Net interest credited to policyholder account balances Other expenses: Other Expenses [Abstract] Direct other expenses Direct Operating Expenses Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services. Before adding selling, general and administrative expense assumed from other insurers or subtracting any amounts ceded to other insurers. Reinsurance assumed Assumed Operating Expenses Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Reinsurance ceded Ceded Operating Expenses Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services ceded to other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Other Expenses Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal 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) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Subtotal Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current and Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Securities Investment Securities Investment [Member] Fixed maturity securities Debt Securities [Member] Equity securities Equity Securities [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] Operating joint venture International Joint Venture [Member] International Joint Venture [Member] Other Other Investments [Member] Commercial Loan [Member] Commercial Loan [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities And Fair Value Option Contractholder-Directed Unit-Linked Consolidated Securitization Entities And Fair Value Option Contractholder-Directed Unit-Linked [Member] Income related to consolidated securitization entities and fair value option contractholder-directed unit-linked investments. Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, 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 Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net derivative gains (losses) Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain Loss. Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Net [Member] Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Net [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims incurred net. Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table] Consolidated Securitization Entities 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 Contractual principal balance Long-term Debt, Gross Difference between estimated fair value and contractual principal balance Fair Value, Option, Aggregate Differences, Long-term Debt Instruments Carrying value at estimated fair value Long-term Debt Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation of Subsidiaries Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Separate Accounts Policyholder Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Future Policy Benefit Liabilities and Policyholder Account Balances Future Policy Benefits Liability, Policy [Policy Text Block] Variable Annuity Guaranteed Minimum Benefits Minimum Guarantees, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Policy-Related Balances Other Policy Related Balances [Policy Text Block] Accounting policy pertaining to an insurance entity's liability for policy and contract claims, unearned revenue liabilities, premiums received in advance, negative value of business acquired, policyholder dividends due and policyholder dividends left on deposit. Recognition of Insurance Revenues and Deposits Insurance Premiums Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Sales Inducements Sales Inducements to Contract Holders, Policy [Policy Text Block] Value of Distribution Agreements and Customer Relationships Acquired Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reinsurance Reinsurance Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Litigation Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Equipment, Leasehold Improvements and Computer Software Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Revenues Other Revenues [Policy Text Block] Describes an insurance entity's accounting policy for other revenue recognition, including the basis for measurement and the timing of recognition of revenue for advisory fees, broker-dealer commissions and fees and administrative service fees. Foreign Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] 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. Twenty Percent 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. Twelve months or greater Twelve months or greater [Member] Twelve months or greater Member. 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] Non-redeemable preferred stock Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] External Credit Rating, Investment Grade External Credit Rating, Investment Grade [Member] External Credit Rating, Non Investment Grade External Credit Rating, Non Investment Grade [Member] Aaa Aa Aaa Aa [Member] Aaa Aa A Member. Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, by Type [Axis] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, by Type [Axis] Summary of Investments, by Type [Domain] Summary of Investments, by Type [Domain] Banks, Trust and Insurance, Equities Banks, Trust and Insurance, Equities [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) before Taxes Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) before Taxes Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions Equity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage Equity Securities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Investment disclosure of equity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage. Percentage of gross unrealized loss Percentage Of Gross Unrealized Loss The percentage of gross unrealized loss. Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss 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, 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] 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 Loans, Gross, Insurance Policy 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 Separate account liabilities Separate Accounts, Liability Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Retail Retail [Member] Retail. Corporate Benefit Funding Corporate Benefit Funding [Member] Corporate Benefit Funding. Corporate & Other Corporate and Other [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total assets Assets Separate account assets Separate Account Assets Tax Credits Guaranteed By Third Parties Amount That Reduces Maximum Exposure To Loss Related To Other Invested Assets Tax Credits Guaranteed By Third Parties Amount That Reduces Maximum Exposure To Loss Related To Other Invested Assets This caption discloses the amount of tax credits guaranteed by third parties that reduces the Company's maximum exposure to loss related to other invested assets plus any unfunded commitments. Financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Fixed Maturities [Member] Fixed Maturities [Member] U.S. Treasury and agency securities US Treasury and Government [Member] State and political subdivision securities US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] Public utilities Public Utility, Bonds [Member] Foreign government Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] All other corporate bonds All 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] Industrial, miscellaneous and all other Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member] Public utilities Public Utility, Equities [Member] Mortgage loans held-for-investment Policy loans Real estate and real estate joint ventures Short-term investments Short-term Investments [Member] Other invested assets Other invested assets [Member] Other invested assets. 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, Fair Value Amount at Which Shown on Balance Sheet Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] MetLife Assurance Limited MetLife Assurance Limited [Member] MetLife Assurance Limited. Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill impairment, net of income tax Goodwill, Impairment Loss, Net of Tax Goodwill Goodwill Impairments Dispositions Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] U.S. Treasury and agency Agency RMBS Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Foreign corporate Foreign Corporate Debt Securities [Member] U.S. corporate Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Foreign government Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction, Type [Domain] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Open Maturity Overnight [Member] 1 Month of Less Maturity Less than 30 Days [Member] 6 Months to 1 Year Maturity 30 to 90 Days [Member] Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Total Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Associated Liabilities, Carrying Amount % of Total Percentage of Remaining Contractual Tenor of Securities on Loan The percentage of remaining contractual tenor of the securities on loan. Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest rate forwards Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign currency swaps Currency Swap [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] 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] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Net investment gains (losses) Net investment income Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Net income (loss) Consolidated securitization entities Assets: Assets [Abstract] Mortgage loans (commercial mortgage loans) Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Commercial and Consumer, Net Accrued investment income relating to variable interest entities Accrued Investment Income Receivable Total assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Long-term debt, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities Other liabilities relating to variable interest entities Total liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Provision for income tax from continuing operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense (benefit) from domestic and foreign operations Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [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] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Variable interest entities Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Assets Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Cost of equity securities available-for-sale Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Mortgage loans valuation allowances Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate Mortgage loans, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities Real estate held-for-sale Real Estate Held-for-sale Stockholder’s Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common stock, shares issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedules of statutory net income, capital and surplus and reserve strengthening by subsidiary Statutory Accounting Practices Disclosure [Table Text Block] 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] Securities holdings exposure in single issuer greater than stated percentage of Company's equity Concentration Risk, Percentage Investments in any counterparty that were greater than 10% of equity Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Investments Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Nonrecurring Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Goodwill Goodwill [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Gains (Losses) Assets, Fair Value Adjustment Carrying Value After Measurement Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Nonrecurring Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] 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. Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Variable Annuity Guarantees Variable Annuity [Member] Guaranteed Death Benefits Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Annuitization Benefits Annuitization Benefit [Member] Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items] 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 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 Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Table] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Table] Insurance Policy [Axis] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Domain] Life insurance (1) Life Insurance Product Line [Member] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items] Consolidated Reinsurance Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract] Reinsurance ceded Assumed Premiums, Life Insurance in Force Life Insurance in Force, Assumed Ceded Premiums, Life Insurance in Force Life Insurance in Force, Ceded 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 credit General Business Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Other tax credit 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] 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. 2016-2020 Expiration Period First Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the first four years by deferred tax asset type. 2021-2025 Expiration Period Second Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the second four years by deferred tax asset type. 2026-2030 Expiration Period Third Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the third four years by deferred tax asset type. 2031-2035 Expiration Period Fourth Four Years By Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Expiration period for the fourth four years by deferred tax asset type. 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 Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax [Abstract] Derivatives and hedging gains (losses) Derivatives And Hedging Gains(losses) This caption represents the net unrealized and realized gains (losses) on derivatives and hedged items recognized during the reporting period. Total net derivative gains (losses) Liabilities for Unpaid Claims and Claim Expenses Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Less: Reinsurance recoverables Reinsurance Recoverables Net balance at January 1, Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Net Incurred related to: Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Incurred Claims [Abstract] Current year Current Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Prior years Prior Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Total incurred Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Incurred Claims Paid related to: Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid [Abstract] Current year Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Current Year Prior years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Prior Years Total paid Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid Net balance at December 31, Add: Reinsurance recoverables Balance at December 31, 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. Secondary Guarantees Secondary Guarantees [Member] Secondary Guarantees. 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 Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract] Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Table] Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Table] Retail Corporate & Other Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items] 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 Amortization of DAC and VOBA Charged to Other Expenses Other Operating Expenses Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense Consolidated Summary of Investments - Other Than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract] Consolidated summary of investments - other than investments in related parties. Consolidated Summary of Investments - Other Than Investments in Related Parties Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Text Block] Other Expenses Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Mortgage Percentage Of Loans And Leases Receivable Consumer Mortgage To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net 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 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 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. Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $36 and $25, respectively; includes $172 and $280, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) 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. Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Dispositions Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] 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] 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] 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 Consolidated Supplementary Insurance Information Supplementary Insurance Information, for Insurance Companies Disclosure [Text Block] DSI Movement in Deferred Sales Inducements [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Deferred Sales Inducements, Net Capitalization Deferred Sales Inducements, Additions Amortization Deferred Sales Inducements, Amortization Expense Unrealized investment gains (losses) Deferred Sales Inducements, Adjustments Balance at December 31, 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] 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 [Axis] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment, Category [Domain] Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment, Category [Domain] Equity Equity Funds [Member] Balanced Balanced Funds [Member] Balanced funds. Bond Bond Funds [Member] Bond funds. Money Market Money Market Funds [Member] 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 [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 Policyholder account balances Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances. Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances [Member] Foreign-denominated policyholder account balances [Member] Foreign Denominated Policyholder Account Balances Member. 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 Ineffectiveness Recognized in Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Invested assets on deposit Deposit Assets Assets Held-in-trust Assets Held-in-trust 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. Changes in fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion in Other Comprehensive Loss, before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Balance at January 1, 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. Noncredit OTTI losses recognized Noncredit Losses On Debt Securities Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss This item presents the noncredit OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized during the reporting period included in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Securities sold with previous noncredit OTTI loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax Subsequent changes in estimated fair value Change In Estimated Fair Value Of Debt Securities With Noncredit Otti Losses Previously Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss This item presents the increase (decrease) in estimated fair value of fixed maturity securities with noncredit OTTI losses that were previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Balance at December 31, Goodwill Rollforward and by Segment Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Consolidated Reinsurance Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Text Block] 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] Policyholder liabilities and receivables Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Policyholder Liabilities Tax credit carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred income tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred income tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Investments, including derivatives Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments Intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets 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 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 Estimated fair value Securities Financing Transaction, Fair Value [Member] Securities Loaned, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement 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. Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] 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 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 Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired [Abstract] Beginning Balance of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Capitalizations of DAC 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 Cost, Amortization Expense Unrealized investment gains (losses) of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) Other of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment and Other Ending Balance of DAC Beginning Balance of VOBA Value of Business Acquired (VOBA) Net investment gains (losses) of VOBA and net derivative gains (losses) of VOBA Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits Amortization Expense Net Investment Gains (Losses) Amount of amortization of present value of future insurance profits due to realized investment gains (losses). 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, 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. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Net consideration Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Non-investment portfolio gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Non-investment portfolio gains (losses), net of tax Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments, net of tax The net realized gain (loss) on investments sold during the period, not including gains (losses) on securities separately or otherwise categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, which, for cash flow reporting, is a component of proceeds from investing activities, net of tax. Goodwill Disposition Goodwill Disposition, net of tax Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit, Net of Tax Amount of divestiture of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized, net of tax. Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) DAC and VOBA 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. Policyholder Account Balances Policyholder Contract Deposits 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. Federal Home Loan Bank Stock Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Net Investment Income Credit forwards 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. Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Effect of Cash Flow Hedges on Results of Operations [Abstract] Amount of Gains (Losses) Deferred in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on Derivatives (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. Amount and Location of Gains (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Income (Loss) (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Amount and Location of Gains (Losses) Recognized In Income (Loss) on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Non-income producing fixed maturity securities Foreign corporate RMBS ABS Asset-backed Securities [Member] State and political subdivision CMBS Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Cost or Amortized Cost Cost or Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Accumulated Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized gain before deducting unrealized loss on investments in available-for-sale securities impacting investments. Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available For Sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss Accumulated Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized loss before deducting unrealized gain on investments in available-for-sale securities impacting investments. Gross Unrealized OTTI 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. Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $50,154 and $46,423, respectively) Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Mergers Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] 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. Assumed Assumed Reinsurance [Member] All or part of a ceding company's insurance or reinsurance on a risk or exposure that is accepted. Ceded 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. Reinsurance Disclosure [Line Items] Reinsurance Disclosure [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Net premiums Net universal life and investment-type product policy fees Net other revenues Net policyholder benefits and claims Reinsurance ceded Net interest credited to policyholder account balances Net other expenses Loans Acquired In Transfer [Axis] Loans Acquired In Transfer. Loans Acquired In Transfer [Domain] Loans Acquired In Transfer. Investments Purchased [Member] Investments Purchased. 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 Additions 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, Net Embedded Derivatives Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Available-for-sale Securities 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] 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 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 [Abstract] 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 Excluding Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interests This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) excluding portion attributable to noncontrolling interests. Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Table] Variable Annuity Universal and Variable Life Contracts Net Ceded/(Assumed) Ceded Liabilities For Guarantees [Member] Ceded Liabilities for Guarantees. Net Net Liabilities For Guarantees [Member] Net liabilities for guarantees. Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit [Member] 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 Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Incurred Benefits Paid guaranteed benefits Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Benefits Paid Balance at December 31, Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Notional Amount Assets Liabilities By Hedging Relationship [Axis] 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 Swaption [Member] Interest Rate Swaption [Member] 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] TRRs Total Return Swap [Member] Gross Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Estimated Fair Value Assets Estimated Fair Value Liabilities Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Statutory Accounting Practices [Table] Statutory Accounting Practices [Table] Parent Company Parent Company [Member] Exeter Reassurance Company Exeter Reassurance Company [Member] Exeter Reassurance Company. MetLife Insurance Company USA MetLife Insurance Company USA [Member] MetLife Insurance Company USA. Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Disclosure Of Dividends [Line Items] Disclosure of Dividends. Paid Payments of Dividends Paid Dividends Paid To Registrant's Parent Company By Affiliates Disclosure of dividends paid to the registrant's parent by affiliates. Permitted w/o approval Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments without Regulatory Approval Funding agreements issued to certain SPEs Funding Agreements Issued To Certain Special Purpose Entities Amount of funding agreements during current year issued 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 SPEs 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. Effects of reinsurance Effects of Reinsurance [Table Text Block] Capital Contribution [Member] Capital Contribution [Member] Capital contribution from parent company. Capital contribution 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. Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] 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 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 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent 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. 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). Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Premiums, Universal Life and Investment-Type Policy Fees and Other Revenue by Product Groups for Reportable Segment Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items] Total adjusted capital of MetLife USA Description of Regulatory Capital Requirements under Insurance Regulations 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. 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) 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. Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table] Private Equity And Debt Funds Private Equity And Debt Funds [Member] Investments held in private equity and debt funds. Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items] Liquidation period Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Liquidating Investment, Remaining Period Insurance Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] 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 [Domain] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Structured Securities Structured Securities [Member] Structured Securities. Short-term Investments 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, 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] Disclosure of mortgage loans held-for-investment and valuation allowances by method of evaluation for credit loss Disclosure Of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment And Valuation Allowances By Method Of Evaluation Of Credit Loss [Table Text Block] The table presents the recorded investment in mortgage loans held-for-investment by portfolio segment, by method of evaluation of credit loss, and the related valuation allowances, by type of credit loss. Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [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] Other than temporary impairment, losses recongnized in earnings Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [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] 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 Invested Assets Transferred To and From Affiliates Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Securitizations or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale [Table Text Block] 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] Commercial Agricultural Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Portfolio segment of the company's total financing receivables related to agricultural receivables. 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 Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] 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] Estimated future amortization expense allocated to other expenses for VOBA [Abstract] Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net of Interest Accrued [Abstract] VOBA 2016 Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Year One VOBA 2017 Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Year Two VOBA 2018 Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Year Three VOBA 2019 Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Year Four VOBA 2020 Expected Amortization Expense of Ending Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Year Five Value of Distribution Agreements and Customer Relationships Acquired [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] VODA and VOCRA 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months VODA and VOCRA 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two VODA and VOCRA 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three VODA and VOCRA 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four VODA and VOCRA 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five 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] 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. Amount and location of gains (losses) recognized in income for derivatives that are not designated or qualifying as hedging instruments Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Net derivatives gains (losses) recognized on fair value derivatives and the related hedged items Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [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 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. Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Residential Residential Portfolio Segment [Member] Beginning Balance Provision (release) Provision for Loan and Lease Losses Ending Balance Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [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, Subtotal Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, 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, Subtotal Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Noncurrent Schedule of Federal Home Loan Bank, Common Stock Holdings, by Branch of Federal Home Loan Bank [Table Text Block] Schedule of Federal Home Loan Bank, Common Stock Holdings, by Branch of Federal Home Loan Bank [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of Federal Home Loan Bank common stock holdings by branch. Schedule of Liability Recorded and Collateral Pledged for Funding Agreements [Table Text Block] Schedule of Liability Recorded and Collateral Pledged for Funding Agreements [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of liability recorded and collateral pledged for funding agreements. 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] Guarantees Related to Annuity, Universal and Variable Life Contracts Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block] Schedule of Liability Recorded and Collateral Pledged for Funding Agreements Liabilities for Unpaid Claims and Claim Expenses Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance beginning of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 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 Annuities Investments Product Line [Member] Life insurance (1) Accident & health insurance Accident and Health Insurance Product Line [Member] Total premiums, universal life and investment-type product policy fees and other revenues Financial Services Revenue 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. Amounts due from affiliates per tax sharing agreement Related Party Tax Expense, Due from Affiliates, Current 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 Associated With Dividend Received Deduction Related to Separate Accounts True-up of the prior year tax return included in current year benefit associated with dividend received deduction related to separate accounts. Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Significant Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Corporate Benefit Funding Total revenues Interest expense on debt Other expenses Other Expenses Total expenses Operating earnings Operating Income (Loss) Net income (loss) Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] ABS 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] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Short-term investments Short-term Investments Derivative assets Net embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liabilities Net embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Direct Direct Reinsurance [Member] Amounts for all insurance before adding amounts assumed from other insurers or subtracting amounts ceded to other insurers. Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Total assets Reinsurance Assets Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all reinsurance assets. Liabilities: Total liabilities Reinsurance Liabilities Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all reinsurance liabilities. Offsetting Assets [Table] Exchange-traded [Member] Offsetting Assets [Line Items] 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 sheets, Assets Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Amounts offset in the consolidated balance sheets, Liabilities Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement 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 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. Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Net receivables (payables) due from (to) affiliates Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party Interest recognized on the consolidated statements of operations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Expense Interest included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Aaa/Aa/A Baa Baa [Member] Baa. B B [Member] B. Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Single name credit default swaps (corporate) Credit Default Swap [Member] Credit default swaps referencing indices Credit Index Product [Member] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Weighted Average Years to Maturity Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity Investments: Investments [Abstract] Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $384 and $400, respectively) Real estate and real estate joint ventures (includes $5 and $93, respectively, of real estate held-for-sale) 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 Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value Other Investments Total investments Investments Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued investment income (includes $1 and $2, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Current income tax recoverable Income Taxes Receivable Total assets Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Future policy benefits Policyholder account balances 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 (includes $48 and $139, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) Current income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes Deferred income tax liability Other liabilities (includes $1 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Total liabilities Liabilities Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 16) Commitments and Contingencies Common stock, par value $25,000 per share; 4,000 shares authorized; 3,000 shares issued and outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Total stockholder’s equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity Liabilities and Equity Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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 and from sales of businesses, net (Gains) Losses On Investments And From Sales Of Businesses, Net The net realized (gain) loss on investments sold during the period and from sales of businesses, 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 or distributions Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions 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 insurance-related liabilities and 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 business, net of cash and cash equivalents disposed of $0, $251 and $0, respectively Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Sales of loans to affiliates Proceeds from Sale of Finance Receivables 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 Financing element on certain derivative instruments Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Redemption of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Common stock redemption premium Common Stock Redemption Premium The excess of (1) fair value of the consideration transferred to the holders of the common stock over (2) the carrying amount of the common stock in the registrant's balance sheet, during the accounting period. Dividends paid to MetLife, Inc. Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Capital contributions from MetLife, Inc. Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates 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, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents, end of year Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Net cash paid 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] Capital contributions from MetLife, Inc. Supplemental Capital Contribution From Parent Supplemental capital contribution from parent. Transfers of fixed maturity securities to affiliates Transfer to Investments Carrying value of Tax Credits Carrying Value of Tax Credits Guaranteed By Third Parties This caption discloses the carrying value amount of tax credits partnerships guaranteed by third parties included within net investment income. Losses From Tax Credits Gains (Losses) From Tax Credits Guaranteed By Third Parties This caption discloses the gains (losses) from tax credit partnerships guaranteed by third parties included within net investment income. Unpaid Principal Balance Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment Valuation Allowances Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance Unpaid Principal Balance Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment Recorded Investment Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Valuation Allowances Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Carrying Value Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment Average Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment Guarantees [Abstract] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] 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. Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Structured securities (RMBS, CMBS, and ABS) [Member] U.S. and foreign corporate Other limited partnership interests Carrying Amount Asset Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Carrying Amount Liability Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Leveraged Leases [Abstract] Deferred income tax liability related to leveraged leases Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Deferred Taxes Arising from Leveraged Leases Percentage of rental receivables performing Loans and Leases Receivable, Ratio of Performing Loans to All Loans Reflects the percentage of performing loans. Number of segments Number of Reportable Segments Affiliated Entity Reinsurance ceded premiums earned and policyholder benefits and claims Reinsurance Ceded Premiums Earned and Policyholder Benefits and Claims, Net Net amount of earned premiums ceded to other entities and amount of reduction of provision for policy benefits and costs incurred for policies ceded. Prior period reclassification adjustment Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Prior period adjustment to operating earnings tax expense Prior Period Adjustment To Operating Earnings Tax Expense Prior period adjustment to operating earnings tax expense. Income Statement Location [Domain] 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] Interest rate derivatives Interest Rate Risk [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives Foreign Exchange [Member] Equity derivatives Equity Market Risk [Member] The primary underlying risk exposure of the derivative is equity market risk. Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Recognized for Derivatives Income (loss) from continuing operations: Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Gross Unrealized OTTI Loss Summary of Certain Fixed Maturity Securities Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities [Abstract] MetLife Investors USA Insurance Company [Member] Met Life Investors USA Insurance Company [Member] MetLife Investors USA Insurance Company Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 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] Related Party Loan Three [Member] Related Party Loan Three [Member] Related Party Loan Three [Member] Other invested assets [Member] Assets Transferred From Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale, Gain (Loss) on Sale Related party net investment income Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Carrying value of related party loans Related party investment administrative services Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party 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 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) 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] Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] 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 Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments and Private Corporate Bond Investments Commitments to Extend Credit [Member] Mortgage Loan Commitments Loan Origination Commitments [Member] Secured Demand Notes Secured Demand Notes [Member] Secured Demand Notes. Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Disclosure Information [Line Items] Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Face Amount, Liability Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Face Amount, Liability Securities Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value Security Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Fair Value Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] U.S. corporate and foreign corporate Interest rate contracts Credit contracts Equity market contracts Embedded derivatives direct and ceded 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] Delta spread adjustments Fair Value Inputs, Comparability Adjustments Credit spreads Fair Value Inputs, Entity Credit Risk 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. 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 Reinsurance Reinsurance [Text Block] Redemption of common stock Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Rollforward and by Segment Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill Goodwill, Gross Accumulated impairment Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Total goodwill, net Dispositions Impairments Goodwill Accumulated impairment Total goodwill, net Property, Equipment, Leasehold Improvements and Computer Software [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Cost basis of computer software Capitalized Computer Software, Gross Accumulated amortization of computer software Capitalized Computer Software, Accumulated Amortization Amortization expense related to computer software Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Real Estate Held-for-investment And Accumulated Depreciation [Table] Disclosure of information about real estate held-for-investment and accompanying accumulated depreciation. Real Estate Held-for-investment And Accumulated Depreciation [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. Real Estate Held-for-investment And Accumulated Depreciation Life Used For Depreciation Useful life on which depreciation was computed for real estate held-for-investment, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. 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] Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] VODA and VOCRA [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. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Leasehold Improvements [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Total assets Total liabilities 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 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 Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Amortized cost Securities Financing Transaction, Cost [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. Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Value of Business Acquired and Other Policy-Related Intangibles Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Income Tax Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward] 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. Initial impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities not previously impaired Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Additions, No Previous Impairment 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. 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 Balance at December 31, Disposal Group Name [Axis] MetLife Assurance Limited Other investment portfolio gains (losses) Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Common stock 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 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 Less than 12 Months Gross Unrealized 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 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 Equal to or Greater than 12 Months Gross Unrealized Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss 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 leveraged leases, net of non-recourse debt Leveraged Leases, Net Investment in Leveraged Leases Disclosure, Investment in Leveraged Leases, Net Fixed Maturity Securities Cash Cash [Member] 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 Fair Value Of Incremental Collateral Provided Upon A One Notch Downgrade In The Company's Credit Rating Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value Fair Value Of Incremental Collateral Provided Upon A Downgrade In The Company's Credit Rating to a Level that Triggers Full Overnight Collateralization or Termination of the Derivative Position Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Retained Earnings (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Beginning Balance Redemption of common stock Capital contributions from MetLife, Inc. Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Dividends paid to MetLife, Inc. Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Ending Balance Long Term Debt Aggregate Maturities, Year One Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long Term Debt Aggregate Maturities, Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long Term Debt Aggregate Maturities, Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long Term Debt Aggregate Maturities, Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long Term Debt Aggregate Maturities, Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Affiliated Debt [Member] Affiliated Debt [Member] Long term affiliated debt. Consolidated Securitization Entities [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Repayments of Long-term Debt Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Amount Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Income tax expense benefit continuing operations income tax reconciliation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Tax provision at U.S. statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Dividend received deduction Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Dividends, Amount Prior year tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Prior Year Income Taxes, Amount Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount Foreign tax rate differential Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Goodwill impairment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Sale of subsidiary Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business, Amount Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Options embedded in debt or equity securities [Member] Securities (Assets) [Member] Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guarantee Type [Axis] Direct guaranteed minimum benefits Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance Funds Withheld On Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance. Other Embedded Derivatives [Member] Other Embedded Derivatives [Member] Other Embedded Derivatives 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 Investments [Member] Other liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Schedule Of Fees Charged To Separate Accounts [Table] Schedule Of Fees Charged To Separate Accounts [Table] Insurance Product Line [Axis] Insurance Product Line [Domain] Funding Agreements and Participating Close Out Contracts Included in Separate Accounts with a Guaranteed Minimum Return or Account Value Funding Agreements And Participating Close Out Contracts Included In Separate Accounts With Guaranteed Minimum Return Or Account Value [Member] Funding agreements and participating close-out contracts included in separate accounts with a guaranteed minimum return or account value. Pass Through Separate Accounts Pass Through Separate Accounts [Member] Total as of the balance sheet date of the portion of contract holder funds maintained in accounts which are separate from the general account assets of the entity and that are pass-through for which the policyholder assumes all investment risk. Separate Accounts With A Guaranteed Minimum Return Or Account Value Separate Accounts With Minimum Return Or Account Value [Member] Total as of the balance sheet date of the portion of contract holder funds maintained in accounts which are separate from the general account assets of the entity. Separate accounts with a minimum return or account value for which the Company contractually guarantees either a minimum return or account value to the policyholder consist primarily of funding agreements and participating close-out contracts. Schedule Separate Accounts [Line Items] Schedule Of Fees Charged To Separate Accounts [Line Items] Schedule Of Fees Charged To Separate Accounts [Line Items] Gain (losses) on transfers of assets from the general account to the separate accounts Gain (Loss) Recognized on Assets Transferred to Separate Account Average interest rate credited on separate accounts with a guaranteed minimum return or account value Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee, Estimated Average Investment Yield Cash disposed from sale of business Cash Divested from Deconsolidation Surplus Notes [Member] This category represents the Surplus Notes carrying value as of the balance sheet date of subordinated debt (with initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer). Subordinated debt places a lender in a lien position behind debt having a higher priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Unaffiliated Debt [Member] Long term unaffiliated debt. Debt Instrument Maturity Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Long Term Debt Excluding Consolidated Securitization Entities Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings, excluding amounts related to consolidated securitization entities, as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Accident & health insurance Life Insurance in Force, Gross Amounts Life Insurance in Force, Gross Life Insurance in Force, Ceded Amounts Life Insurance in Force, Assumed Amounts Life Insurance in Force, Net Amounts Life Insurance in Force, Net Life Insurance in Force, Percentage Assumed to Net Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net Statutory capital and surplus Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance Statutory net income (loss) Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount Consumer Consumer Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Consumer Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Industrial Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Transportation Transportation Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Transportation Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Finance Finance Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Finance Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) [Abstract] 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 Subtotal 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) Related Party [Axis] Performing Performing Financial Instruments [Member] Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] 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. Number of mortgage loans in nonaccrual status 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. Past due status of mortgage loans Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Loans and Leases Receivable, Number of Contract, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due 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, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Financing Receivable, Significant Sales Financing Receivable, Significant Sales Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction