Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Shareholder's net investment [Member] Shareholder's net investment [Member] Shareholder's net investment [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Change in shareholders Net Investment Change in shareholders Net Investment Change in shareholders Net Investment Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance Shareholder’s Net Investment Shareholder’s Net Investment Shareholder’s Net Investment includes retained earnings and additional paid-in-capital Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Pro Forma Pro Forma [Member] Statement [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic 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 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 Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Other expenses Operating Expenses Total expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses Income (loss) before provision for income tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Equity [Abstract] Equity Component [Domain] Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Foreign currency swaps Currency Swap [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Fixed maturity securities Debt Securities [Member] Policyholder account balances Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances. Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Derivatives Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Hedged Items Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness Recognized in Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] 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 included in AOCI 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. Total fixed maturity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Debt Securities This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to fixed maturity securities. Equity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Equity Securities This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to equity securities. Derivatives Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Derivatives This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to derivatives. Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated from short-term investments Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Other Investments This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to other investments. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Investment Gains (Losses) Components This item presents the subtotal of net unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives and other investments. Future policy benefits Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Insurance Liability Loss Recognition This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from insurance liability loss recognition. DAC and VOBA related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Dac And Voba On Which Non credit Otti Losses Have Been Recognized This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from DAC and VOBA on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized. DAC, VOBA and DSI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Dac And Voba This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from DAC and VOBA. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Allocated Amounts This item presents the subtotal of unrealized investment gains (losses) related to allocated amounts. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) related to noncredit OTTI losses recognized in AOCI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit Expense On Which Non Credit Otti Losses Have Been Recognized This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense) on which noncredit OTTI losses have been recognized. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit Expense This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense). Net unrealized investment gains (losses) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses). Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items] Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Securities Investment Securities Investment [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] Other Other Investments [Member] FVO CSEs — interest income — commercial mortgage loans Commercial Loan [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] 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] Subtotal Gross Investment Income, Operating Less: Investment expenses Investment Income, Investment Expense Subtotal , net Insurance [Abstract] Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [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] Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement [Table] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement [Table] Schedule Of Effect Of Reinsurance On Income Statement. Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] All Services and Transactions Except Broker Dealer Activities [Member] All Services and Transactions Except Broker Dealer Activities [Member] All services and transactions except Broker Dealer activities. Broker Dealer Activities [Member] Broker Dealer Activities [Member] Broker Dealer Activities Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Affiliated Entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] 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 Reinsurance [Member] Affiliated reinsurance. Reinsurance Disclosure [Line Items] Reinsurance Disclosure [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Revenue from Related Parties Revenue from Related Parties Premiums: Premiums Earned [Abstract] Premiums Earned [Abstract] Reinsurance assumed Assumed Premiums Earned Reinsurance ceded Ceded Premiums Earned Net premiums Universal life and investment-type product policy fees: Fees and Commissions [Abstract] 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] 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. Policyholder benefits and claims: Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred [Abstract] 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. -- 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 Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, [Abstract] Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense, [Abstract] Assumed Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs And Present Value Of Future Profits Amortization Assumed Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs And Present Value Of Future Profits Amortization Amount of deferred policy acquisition costs and capitalized present value of the future profits (PVFP) expensed assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Ceded Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs And Present Value Of Future Profits Amortization Ceded Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs And Present Value Of Future Profits Amortization Amount of deferred policy acquisition costs and capitalized present value of the future profits (PVFP) expensed ceded from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. Other expenses: Other Expenses [Abstract] 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. Net other expenses 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] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction [Domain] Transaction [Domain] Over the Counter [Member] Over the Counter [Member] Exchange Cleared [Member] Exchange Traded [Member] Exchange Traded [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability 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 Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Cash collateral on derivative assets Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Excess securities collateral received on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Excess securities collateral provided on derivatives Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities 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 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 Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Embedded derivatives gains (losses) Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] 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 Estimated fair value of securities collateral provided for over-the-counter derivatives with credit-contingent provisions in gross liability position Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Cash collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Securities collateral received which the company is permitted to sell or repledge, amount that has been sold or repledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Effects of reinsurance Effects of Reinsurance [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Investments: Investments [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $59,277 and $58,715, respectively; includes $0 and $3,413, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Equity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (cost: $247 and $280, respectively) Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $44 and $40, respectively; includes $123 and $136, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Policy loans Loans, Gross, Insurance Policy Real estate and real estate joint ventures Real Estate Investments, Net Other limited partnership interests Other Limited Partnership Interests The book value of investments in other limited partnership interests. Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value Short-term Investments Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value Other Investments Total investments Investments Cash and cash equivalents, principally at estimated fair value (includes $0 and $9, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued investment income (includes $1 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Accrued Investment Income Receivable Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Current income tax recoverable Income Taxes Receivable Other assets Other Assets Separate account assets Separate Account Assets Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Future policy benefits Liability for Future Policy Benefits Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposits 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. 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 $16 and $23, respectively, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities) Long-term Debt Secured Debt Secured Debt Deferred income tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities (includes $0 and $1, respectively, relating to variable interest entities) Other Liabilities Separate account liabilities Separate Accounts, Liability Total liabilities Liabilities Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 11) Commitments and Contingencies Shareholder’s Net Investment and Noncontrolling Interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Shareholder’s net investment Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities, shareholder’s net investment and noncontrolling interests Liabilities and Equity Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Mortgage Loan Commitments Loan Origination Commitments [Member] Commitments to Fund Partnership Investments and Private Corporate Bond Investments Commitments to Extend Credit [Member] Secured Demand Notes Secured Demand Notes [Member] Secured Demand Notes. Related Party [Axis] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Disclosure Information [Line Items] 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 Indemnities and guarantees contractual limitation range Indemnities And Guarantees Contractual Limitation Range The range of the contractual limitation for guarantees and indemnities. Liabilities for indemnities, guarantees and commitments Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Cumulative maximum indemnities and guarantees contractual limitation Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [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. 20% or more Twenty Percent Or More [Member] 20% or more Member. Schedule of Securities by Duration [Axis] Schedule of Securities by Duration [Axis] Schedule Of Securities By Duration Axis. Securities by Duration [Domain] Securities by Duration [Domain] Securities By Duration. Six months or greater Six Months Or Greater [Member] Six months or greater. Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Fixed Maturity Securities External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] Investment Grade External Credit Rating, Investment Grade [Member] Below Investment Grade External Credit Rating, Non Investment Grade [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Change in Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) before Taxes Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Number of Securities Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions Fixed Securities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Fixed Maturities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Investment disclosure of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage. Percentage of gross unrealized loss Percentage Of Gross Unrealized Loss The percentage of gross unrealized loss. Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] U.S. corporate Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Foreign corporate Foreign Corporate Debt Securities [Member] U.S. government and agency US Treasury and Government [Member] RMBS Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] State and political subdivision US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] CMBS Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] ABS Asset-backed Securities [Member] Foreign government Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Non-redeemable preferred stock Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member] 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 Less than 12 Months Gross Unrealized Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position less than 12 months Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year Equal to or Greater than 12 Months Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Equal to or Greater than 12 Months Gross Unrealized Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss 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 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] Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Insurance Liabilities By Segment [Table] Insurance Liabilities By Segment [Table] A table reflecting insurance liabilities by segment. Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Corporate & Other Corporate and Other [Member] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Annuities Annuities [Member] Annuities. Life Life [Member] Life. Run-off Run-off [Member] Segment which consists of products no longer actively sold and which are separately managed. 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. Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits) Deposit Assets Invested assets held-in-trust (reinsurance agreements) Assets Held-in-trust Invested assets pledged as collateral Invested Assets Pledged As Collateral Invested assets pledged as collateral. Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral Assets On Deposit 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. 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] Components of net unrealized investment gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Securities Lending Schedule of Securities Financing Transactions [Table Text Block] Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral Schedule of Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Table Text Block] The Components of Net Investment Income Investment Income [Table Text Block] The components of net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains and losses Proceeds From Sales Or Disposals Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities And Components Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities Net Investment Gains And Losses [Table Text Block] This table presents the proceeds from sales or disposals of fixed maturity and equity securities and the components of fixed maturity and equity securities net investment gains and losses. Rollforward of the Cumulative Credit Loss Component of OTTI income (loss) Roll Forward Of Cumulative Credit Loss Component Of Otti Income Loss [Table Text Block] Rollforward of cumulative credit loss component of OTTI loss recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities still held, for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Securitizations or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Securitizations or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale [Table Text Block] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Schedule [Table] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Domain] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Type [Domain] Commercial Agricultural Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Portfolio segment of the company's total financing receivables related to agricultural receivables. Residential Residential Portfolio Segment [Member] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items] Schedule of Financing Receivables, Non Accrual Status [Table Text Block] Schedule of Financing Receivables, Non Accrual Status [Table Text Block] 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] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Affiliated Entity [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] HartshorneV.MetLifeInc.etal. [Member] HartshorneV.MetLifeInc.etal. [Member] HartshorneV.MetLifeInc.etal. [Member] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] compensatory damages [Member] compensatory damages [Member] compensatory damages [Member] Punitive damages [Member] Punitive damages [Member] Punitive damages [Member] Attorneys fees and costs [Member] Attorneys fees and costs [Member] Attorneys fees and costs [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] 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] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance, beginning of period OCI before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications, Tax AOCI before reclassifications, net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Balance, end of period Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Expenses Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Balance, beginning of period Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate Provision (release) Provision for Loan and Lease Losses Balance, end of period 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, Structured Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis Amortized Cost, Subtotal Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Estimated Fair Value, Due in one year or less Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after one year through five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after five years through ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Structured Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Spinoff Spinoff [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] CME update impact [Member] CME update impact [Member] Impact to financial statements items due to the implementation of the amended Chicago Mercantile Exchange rulebook. New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Accrued investment income relating to variable interest entities Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Payables For Collateral Under Securities Loaned And Other Transactions Common Stock Distribution by Parent Common Stock Distribution by Parent Percentage of common stock that parent intends to distribute Number of segments Number of Reportable Segments Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Axis] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Securities Financing Transaction [Domain] Maturity Overnight Maturity Overnight [Member] Maturity Less than 30 Days Maturity Less than 30 Days [Member] Maturity 30 to 180 Days Maturity 30 to 180 Days [Member] Maturity period that is more than 29 days but fewer than 180 days from the reporting date for repurchase agreements and similar transactions, for example, but not limited to, securities lending arrangements. Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Agency RMBS Foreign government Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Total Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Associated Liabilities, Carrying Amount Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Other General and Administrative Expense Other General and Administrative Expense Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Long-term Line of Credit Long-term Line of Credit Recurring Fair Value Measurements Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Quantitative Information Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Quantitative Information Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value Option Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] 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] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Foreign corporate State and political subdivision CMBS Interest rate contracts Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Equity market contracts Equity Contract [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Short-term investments Mortgage loans, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties Derivative assets Embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liabilities Embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Long-term debt, at estimated fair value, relating to variable interest entities Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure 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 Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Fixed Maturity Securities Fixed Maturities [Member] Cash [Member] Cash [Member] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives in Net Liability Position Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value 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 Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract] Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Nonaccrual Status Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Aaa/Aa/A Aaa Aa [Member] Aaa Aa A Member. Baa Baa [Member] Baa. Ba Ba [Member] Ba Member. 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 (3) Credit Default Swap [Member] Credit default swaps referencing indices Credit Index Product [Member] Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Weighted Average Years to Maturity Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] BHF Senior Notes due 2027 BHF Senior Notes due 2027 [Member] BHF Senior Notes due 2027. BHF Senior Notes due 2047 BHF Senior Notes due 2047 [Member] BHF Senior Notes due 2047. MLUSA Surplus Notes due 2038 MLUSA Surplus Notes due 2038 [Member] MLUSA Surplus Notes due 2038. MRD Surplus Notes MRD Surplus Notes [Member] MRD surplus notes with MetLife, Inc., former parent. MRD Surplus Notes due 2032 MRD Surplus Notes due 2032 [Member] MRD Surplus Notes due 2032. MRD Surplus Notes due 2033 MRD Surplus Notes due 2033 [Member] MRD Surplus Notes due 2033. MRSC Collateral Financing Arrangement Mrsc Collateral Financing Arrangement [Member] Mrsc Collateral Financing Arrangement [Member] Credit-linked Note Credit-linked Note [Member] Credit-linked notes associated with a reinsurance financing arrangement. Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] MRV committed credit facility MRV committed credit facility [Member] MRV committed credit facility. MRSC committed credit facility MRSC committed credit facility [Member] MRSC committed credit facility. BRCD BRCD [Member] Brighthouse Reinsurance Company of Delaware. Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Senior Notes Senior Notes Surplus Notes Surplus Notes Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Notes Receivable, Related Parties Notes Receivable, Related Parties 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. Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net Fair Value (Transfers Between Levels) [Abstract] Fair Value (Transfers Between Levels) [Abstract] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Transferred Between Levels 1 And Levels 2 Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Transferred Between Levels 1 And Levels 2 Amount of transfers of assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis between Levels 1 and Levels 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 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] Net derivative gains (losses) Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain Loss. Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefit And Claim [Member] Primary financial statement caption encompassing policyholder benefits and claims. Total earned income Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Compensation Labor and Related Expense Commissions Noninterest Expense Commission Expense Volume-related costs Cost of Services, Overhead Affiliated expenses on ceded and assumed reinsurance Interest Expense, Related Party Capitalization of DAC Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Additions 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 Total other expenses Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Pro forma shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Pro forma earnings per share Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Sales, maturities and repayments of fixed maturity securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of 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. Receipts on loans to affiliates Proceeds from Collection of Advance to Affiliate Net change in policy loans Payments for (Proceeds from) Policy Loans Net change in short-term investments Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Net change in other invested assets Net Change In Other Invested Assets The net cash outflow (inflow) from other investing activities including derivative instruments, leveraged leases and other invested assets. Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Policyholder account balances: Deposits Proceeds from Annuities and Investment Certificates Policyholder account balances: Withdrawals Repayments of Annuities and Investment Certificates Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions. Long-term debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Long-term debt repaid Repayments of Long-term Debt Collateral financing arrangements repaid Repayments of Secured Debt Financing element on certain derivative instruments and other derivative related transactions, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Cash received from MetLife in connection with shareholder's net investment Proceeds from Contributed Capital Cash paid to MetLife in connection with shareholder's net investment 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. Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 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] Transfer of fixed maturity securities from affiliates Transfer to Investments Transfer of mortgage loans from affiliates Transfers of Mortgage Loans From Affiliates Value of mortgages transferred from the entity's affiliates in noncash transactions. Transfer of short-term investments from affiliates Transfer of Short-Term Investments From Affiliates Value of short-term investments transferred from the entity's affiliates in noncash transactions. Transfer of fixed maturity securities to affiliates Transfer from Investments Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with a reinsurance transactions Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with a reinsurance transactions Reduction of policyholder account balances in connection with a reinsurance transactions Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues Net investment gains (losses) Net derivative gains (losses) Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Amortized cost Securities Financing Transaction, Cost [Member] Estimated fair value Securities Financing Transaction, Fair Value [Member] Securities loaned Securities Loaned Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties Security collateral on deposit from counterparties Securities Received as Collateral Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value Securities Lending Reinvestment Portfolio Estimated Fair Value This element represents the estimated fair value of the securities lending reinvestment portfolio. MRSC (collateral financing arrangement (primarily securities)) Consolidated securitization entities Consolidated Entities [Member] Total Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Total Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Financing Receivable, Significant Purchases Financing Receivable, Significant Purchases Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment 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. Parent shareholders' percentage Parent shareholders' percentage [Member] Percentage of Parent shareholders' shares. Parent percentage Parent percentage [Member] Percentage of Parent shares. Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock Retained by Parent Common Stock Retained by Parent Percentage of common stock retained by parent. Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward] Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Credit Losses on Debt Securities Held Additions: Otti Additions [Abstract] Otti Additions Abstract. Additional impairments — credit loss OTTI on securities previously impaired Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Additions, Additional Credit Losses Reductions: Otti Reductions [Abstract] Otti Reductions Abstract. 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 Balance, end of period 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, beginning of period 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 period Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Unrealized Investment Gains Losses During Period This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period. Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to: 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, 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, end of period 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. Securities Financing Transaction, Type [Domain] Cash collateral on deposit from counterparties Securities Loaned, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Percentage Of US Treasury And Agency Securities At Estimated Fair Value Of Securities On Loan Relating To Cash Collateral On Open Percentage Of US Treasury And Agency Securities At Estimated Fair Value Of Securities On Loan Relating To Cash Collateral On Open The percentage of US Treasury and agency securities at estimated fair value of securities on loan relating to cash collateral on open. Percentage of Reinvestment Portfolio in Fixed Maturity Securities Percentage of Reinvestment Portfolio in Fixed Maturity Securities The percentage of the reinvestment portfolio acquired with the cash collateral consists mainly of Fixed maturities. Securities holdings exposure in single issuer greater than stated percentage of Company's equity Concentration Risk, Percentage Government and agency fixed maturity securities Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Investments Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Net Investment Income 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] Credit default swaps — purchased Credit Default Swap, Buying Protection [Member] Credit default swaps — written Credit Default Swap, Selling Protection [Member] Equity derivatives Equity Market Risk [Member] The primary underlying risk exposure of the derivative is equity market risk. 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%. 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. Net Embedded Derivatives Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Available-for-sale Securities Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Percentage of deferred tax asset related to an agreement previously recorded Percentage of deferred tax asset related to an agreement previously recorded Percentage of deferred tax asset related to a tax receivable agreement previously recorded Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Income Taxes Receivable Assets Liabilities Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Liabilities and Equity Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Industrial Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Industrial Domestic Corporate Debt Securities Member. U.S. corporate and foreign corporate securities 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] Total OTTI losses recognized in earnings Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net 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 Net investment gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Other net investment gains (losses): Realized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract] Mortgage loans Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Real estate and real estate joint ventures Gains (Losses) on Sales of Investment Real Estate Other limited partnership interests Gains Losses On Sales Of Other Limited Partnerships The net gain (loss) resulting from sales and other disposals of other limited partnership interests. Other Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Subtotal 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) Insurance Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] 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. Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items] Total account value (3) Net Amount At Risk By Product And Guarantee General And Separate Account Value Value of the separate and general accounts corresponding to the specified product, guarantee type and subset of the guarantee. Net amount at risk Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk Average attained age of policyholders Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age Options embedded in debt or equity securities Securities (Assets) [Member] Direct guaranteed minimum benefits Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Assumed guaranteed minimum benefits Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance Funds Withheld On Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Funds withheld on ceded reinsurance. Fixed annuities with equity indexed returns 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. Investments Investments [Member] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Net [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims incurred net. Net derivatives gains (losses) Schedule of Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Table] Schedule of Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangements, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Table] Invested Assets Transferred To and From Affiliates Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale [Line Items] Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred to affiliates Assets Transferred To Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of assets transfered to affiliates. Amortized cost of invested assets transferred to affiliates Transfers of Financial Assets Accounted for as Sale, Amortized Cost of Assets Obtained as Proceeds Represents the amortized cost of assets received on transfer of financial assets in a securitization, asset-backed financing arrangement, or a similar transfer which transaction is recognized as a sale of the transferred financial assets. Net investment gains (losses) recognized on transfers Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale, Gain (Loss) on Sale Change Additional Paid In Capital Recognized On Transfers Change Additional Paid In Capital Recognized On Transfers Reflect the change of additional paid in capital on equity type investments such as real estate and real estate joint ventures. Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates Assets Transferred From Affiliates, Estimated Fair Value Estimated fair value of invested assets transferred from affiliates. Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Company-held mortgage loans held-for-investment, net Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract] Commercial Mortgage Loans 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 Loans Receivable, Gross, Commercial, Agricultural Percentage of loans receivable on agricultural mortgage loans Percentage Of Loans Receivable Commercial Agricultural To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Commercial Agricultural Loans Receivable to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Residential Mortgage Loans Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Mortgage Percentage of loans receivable on residential mortgage loans Percentage Of Loans And Leases Receivable Consumer Mortgage To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Consumer Mortgage Loans and Leases Receivable to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Subtotal (1) Mortgage Loans Held For Investment The balance represents the amount of loans that are secured by real estate mortgages. Percentage of loans receivable on subtotal Percentage Of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans Held For Investment to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Valuation allowances 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. Percentage of loans held for sale on 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. Common stock Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Cost or Amortized Cost Cost or Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Gross Unrealized Gain Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Gross Unrealized OTTI Loss 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. Equity securities 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] 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] Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company [Member] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company [Member] Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Brighthouse Life Insurance Company NY [Member] Brighthouse Life Insurance Company NY [Member] Brighthouse Life Insurance Company NY [Member] Contract Termination Contract Termination [Member] Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guarantee Type [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Benefit Type [Domain] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Funds Withheld On Ceded Reinsurance [Member] Separate AC Annuities MLIC [Member] Separate AC Annuities MLIC [Member] Separate Account Annuities MLIC [Member] 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] Recapture MLIC [Member] Recapture MLIC [Member] Recapture of Single Premium Deferred Annuity MLIC Life and Other [Member] Life and Other [Member] Life and Other Insurance Product MLUS Recapture GMIB [Member] MLUS Recapture GMIB [Member] Recapture of variable annuities BLIC Affiliate Recapture Variable Annuities [Member] Affiliate Recapture Variable Annuities [Member] Recapture of agreements from BLICNY and NELICO Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability 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 Reinsurance recoverables Reinsurance Recoverables, Ceded Amount of reinsurance recoverable balances in both asset and liability accounts that have been ceded. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Other liabilities relating to variable interest entities Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Liability for Future Policy Benefits Policyholder Contract Deposits Schedule of Subsequent Events [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Table] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Unpaid principal balance Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Difference between estimated fair value and unpaid principal balance Fair Value, Option, Aggregate Differences, Loans and Long-term Receivables Carrying value at estimated fair value 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 Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-income producing debt securities. Summary of Certain Fixed Maturity Securities Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities [Abstract] Gross Unrealized Gain loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Total assets Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [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 Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Consolidated Securitization Entities Variable interest, maximum exposure to loss in consolidated securitization entities Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] ABS Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Embedded derivatives direct, assumed, and ceded guaranteed minimum benefits Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Market Approach Valuation Technique Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Income Approach Valuation Technique Income Approach Valuation Technique [Member] Mortality Rates Range [Axis] Mortality Rates Range Mortality Rates Range [Domain] Mortality Rates Range Ages 0 - 40 Mortality Rates Range One [Member] Mortality Rates Range One Ages 41 - 60 Mortality Rates Range Two [Member] Mortality Rates Range Two Ages 61 - 115 Mortality Rates Range Three [Member] Mortality Rates Range Three Lapse Rates Duration Range [Axis] Lapse Rates Duration Range Lapse Rates Duration Range [Domain] Lapse Rates Duration Range Durations 1 - 10 Lapse Rates Duration Range One [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range One Durations 11 - 20 Lapse Rates Duration Range Two [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range Two Durations 21 - 116 Lapse Rates Duration Range Three [Member] Lapse Rates Duration Range Three Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Matrix Pricing Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Matrix Pricing Matrix Pricing - Price at which a dealer is willing to buy an instrument, used as an input to measure fair value. Offered quotes Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Quoted prices Fair Value Inputs, Quoted prices Quoted prices Repurchase Rate Fair Value Inputs, Repurchase Rate The rate of return obtained by simultaneously selling a bond futures or forward contract, and then buying an actual bond of equal amount in the cash market using borrowed money. The bond is held until it is delivered into the futures or forward contract and the loan is repaid. Credit spreads Fair Value Inputs, Entity Credit Risk Volatility Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Correlation Fair Value Inputs Correlation Correlation. 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 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] 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 Liabilities [Table Text Block] Estimated Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities after Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block] Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table 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] U.S. Government and Agency Structured Securities Structured Securities [Member] Structured Securities. Short-term Investments Short-term Investments [Member] 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, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) 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, end of period 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] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) 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, end of period Fair Value Hedges Fair Value Hedging [Member] Interest rate floors Interest Rate Floor [Member] Interest rate caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate futures Futures [Member] Futures. Interest rate options Interest Rate Swaption [Member] Total Return Swap [Member] Total Return Swap [Member] Interest rate forwards Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Credit default swaps [Member] Equity futures Equity Futures [Member] Equity Futures Member. Equity index options Equity Option [Member] Equity variance swaps Variance Swap [Member] Equity total return swaps Equity Total Return Swaps [Member] Contracts where a set of future cash flows are agreed to be exchanged at set dates in the future and are broken down as floating and equity legs. The floating leg is tied to LIBOR and the equity leg is based on performance of a stock or stock market index. Gross Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Insurance (Liabilities for Unpaid Claims and Claim Expense) (Details) [Abstract] Insurance (Liabilities for Unpaid Claims and Claim Expense) (Details) [Abstract] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Adjustment [Member] Scenario, Adjustment [Member] Balance, end of period Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Add: Reinsurance recoverables Reinsurance Recoverables, Including Reinsurance Premium Paid Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Net Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Net Incurred related to: Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Incurred Claims [Abstract] Prior periods (2) Prior Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Current period Current 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] Total paid Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid Prior periods Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Prior Years Current period Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Current Year Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimated Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Mortgage loans Fair Value Mortgage Loans Net Not On Recurring Basis Total amount of mortgage loans not valued on a recurring basis as of the balance sheet date. 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 Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Other Expenses Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Annuity Guarantees Variable Annuity [Member] Guaranteed Death Benefits Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Annuitization Benefits Annuitization Benefit [Member] Total account value Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, General Account Value Separate account value Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value Average attained age of contractholders Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Effect of Cash Flow Hedges on Results of Operations [Abstract] Amount of Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI on Derivatives 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 AOCI into Income (Loss) 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 Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] 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] Net investment gains (losses) Income (loss) from continuing operations before provision for income tax Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Mortgage loans Other limited partnership interests Capital Contributions [Abstract] Capital Contributions [Abstract] Non-cash Contribution Non-cash Contribution [Member] Non-cash Contribution. Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Capital Contribution Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Performing Performing Financial Instruments [Member] Nonperforming Nonperforming Financial Instruments [Member] Agricultural Mortgage Loans - by Credit Quality Indicator: Agricultural Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator [Abstract] Agricultural mortgage loans, by credit quality indicator. Recorded Investment % of Total Loans Receivable Commercial Agricultural Mortgage Percentage Reflects the percentage of the gross carrying amount of unpaid loans issued to agricultural businesses to provide financing on existing land or a building, which, pursuant to terms of the underlying debt instrument, are secured at a minimum but possibly exclusively by that real property to the total for all commercial agricultural mortgage loans. Mortgages represent permanent financing, and are issued to replace previously existing mortgages or pay off acquisition, development and construction loans, or to provide cash to the borrower. Residential Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator [Abstract] Residential Mortgage Loans By Credit Quality Indicator [Abstract] Residential mortgage loans, by credit quality indicator. Recorded Investment % of Total Loans And Leases Receivable Consumer Mortgage Percentage Reflects the percentage of the gross carrying amount of unpaid loans and leases issued to consumers to the total for all consumer loans and leases. Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Effects of Reinsurance [Table] Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items] Assets: 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. Variable interest entities Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Cost of equity securities available-for-sale Mortgage loans valuation allowances Common stock, shares issued Common stock, shares outstanding Intersegment Eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Corporate & Other Operating earnings Operating Income (Loss) Other adjustments to net income Inter-segment revenues Interest revenue Interest Revenue (Expense), Net Interest expense Interest Expense Structured securities (RMBS, CMBS and ABS) U.S. and foreign corporate Other investments Carrying Amount Asset Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Carrying Amount Liability Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities 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) Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Interest Expense, Debt Interest Expense, Debt Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Surplus Notes 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. Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities Consolidated Securitization Entities [Member] Consolidated Securitization Entities. Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms Long Term Debt Excluding Consolidated Securitization Entities Face Value Long Term Debt Excluding Consolidated Securitization Entities Face Value Including current and noncurrent portions, face value 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. Offsetting Assets [Table] OTC-cleared Exchange-traded 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 consoilidated balance sheets, Assets Derivative Asset, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Amounts offset in the consoilidated balance sheets, Liabilities Derivative Liability, Not Subject to Master Netting Arrangement Estimated fair value of derivative assets presented in the consolidated balance sheets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Estimated fair value of derivative liabilities presented in the consolidated balance sheets Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Gross estimated fair value of derivative assets Derivative Asset, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Gross estimated fair value of derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Not Offset, Policy Election Deduction Cash collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset Securities collateral on derivative assets Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities, Offset Amount of obligation to return securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative assets. Securities collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities, Offset Amount of right to receive securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative liabilities. Net amount of derivative assets after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net amount of derivative liabilities after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral 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] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Recapture MLUS [Member] Recapture MLUS [Member] Recapture of Single Premium Deferred Annuity MLUS Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related party investment administrative services Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments