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] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Fair Value, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Disclosure Information [Line Items] Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Face Amount, Liability Indemnities And Guarantees Contractual Limitation Range Indemnities And Guarantees Contractual Limitation Range The range of the contractual limitation for guarantees and indemnities. Cumulative maximum indemnities and guarantees contractual limitation Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Liabilities for indemnities, guarantees and commitments Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Distribution service Distribution Service [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Other Revenue and Other Expenses Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, dividend rate Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Preferred stock, par value per share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, liquidation preference per share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Preferred stock issuance costs Payments of Stock Issuance Costs Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Treasury stock, shares acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury stock, value acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock repurchase program, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Insurance [Abstract] Guarantees related to Annuity, Universal and Variable Life Contracts Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] 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] Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Fixed maturity securities Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] 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 Components of Sales or Disposals of Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities [Abstract] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Realized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Net investment gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities by contractual maturity date Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Continuous Gross Unrealized Loss and OTTI Loss for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Credit Quality of Mortgage Loans by Portfolio Segment Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Securities Lending Schedule of Securities Financing Transactions [Table Text Block] Invested Assets on Deposit, Held in Trust and Pledged as Collateral Schedule of Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Table Text Block] Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] The Components of Net Investment Income Investment Income [Table Text Block] The components of net investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Securities [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. Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] U.S. corporate Debt Security, Corporate, US [Member] U.S. government and agency US Treasury and Government [Member] RMBS Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Foreign corporate Debt Security, Corporate, Non-US [Member] State and Political Subdivision US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] ABS Asset-backed Securities [Member] CMBS Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Foreign government Debt Security, Government, Non-US [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign currency exchange rate Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit Credit Risk Contract [Member] Equity market Equity Contract [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Short-term Investments Short-term Investments Derivative assets: (1) Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Embedded derivatives within asset host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Asset Separate account assets Separate Account Assets Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative liabilities: (1) Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Embedded derivatives within liability host contracts Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable, Type [Domain] Mortgage Loans Real Estate Loan [Member] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Domain] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Domain] Residential Residential Portfolio Segment [Member] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Axis] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Internal Credit Assessment [Domain] Performing Performing Financial Instruments [Member] Nonperforming Nonperforming Financial Instruments [Member] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Recorded Investment Financing Receivable, Gross % 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. Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Securities Financing Transaction [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] 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. Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Securities Financing Transaction [Line Items] Total Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings, Associated Liabilities, Carrying Amount Amortized cost Securities Financing Transaction, Cost [Member] Estimated fair value Securities Financing Transaction, Fair Value [Member] Securities on loan: (1) Securities Loaned Cash collateral received from counterparties (2) Security collateral received from counterparties (3) Securities Received as Collateral Reinvestment portfolio — estimated fair value Securities Lending Reinvestment Portfolio Estimated Fair Value This element represents the estimated fair value of the securities lending reinvestment portfolio. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Axis] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit Derivatives Contract Type [Domain] Credit Default Swap [Member] Credit Default Swap [Member] Aaa/Aa/A Aaa Aa [Member] Aaa Aa A Member. Baa Baa [Member] Baa. Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Credit Derivatives [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Credit Default Swaps Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net Maximum Amount of Future Payments under Credit Default Swaps Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Weighted Average Years to Maturity (2) Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity Agricultural Agricultural Portfolio Segment [Member] Portfolio segment of the company's total financing receivables related to agricultural receivables. 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%. Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items] % 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. Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Policyholder account balances Policyholder Account Balances [Member] Policyholder Account Balances. Reinsurance Reinsurance [Member] Affiliated reinsurance. Invested assets on deposit Deposit Assets Assets Held-in-trust Assets Held-in-trust Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Sales, maturities and repayments of fixed maturity securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Sales, maturities and repayments of equity securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Sales, maturities and repayments of mortgage loans Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Mortgage Notes Receivable Sales, maturities and repayments of real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Proceeds from Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures Sales, maturities and repayments of other limited partnership interests Proceeds from Limited Partnership Investments Purchases of fixed maturity securities Payments to Acquire Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Purchases of equity securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Purchases of mortgage loans Payments to Acquire Mortgage Notes Receivable Purchases of of real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Payments to Acquire Real Estate and Real Estate Joint Ventures Purchases of other limited partnership interests Payments to Acquire Limited Partnership Interests Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives Cash received in connection with freestanding derivatives The cash inflow provided by derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as investing activities, including both hedging and non-hedging instruments. Cash paid in connection with freestanding derivatives Cash Paid In Connection With Freestanding Derivatives The cash outflow provided by derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as investing activities, including both hedging and non-hedging instruments. Net change in policy loans Payments for (Proceeds from) Policy Loans Net change in short-term investments Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Net change in other invested assets Net Change In Other Invested Assets The net cash outflow (inflow) from other investing activities including derivative instruments, leveraged leases and other invested assets. Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Policyholder account balances: Deposits Proceeds from Annuities and Investment Certificates Policyholder account balances: Withdrawals Repayments of Annuities and Investment Certificates Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Net change in payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions. Long-term debt issued Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Long-term debt repaid Repayments of Long-term Debt Preferred stock issued, net of issuance costs Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Financing element on certain derivative instruments and other derivative related transactions, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Net cash paid (received) for interest Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Net cash paid (received) for income tax Income Taxes Paid, Net Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input, Mortality Rate Measurement Input, Mortality Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Lapse Rate Measurement Input, Lapse Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Utilization Rate Measurement Input, Utilization Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Withdrawal Rate Measurement Input, Withdrawal Rate [Member] Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities [Member] Measurement Input, Long Term Equity Volatilities [Member] Measurement Input, Entity Credit Risk Measurement Input, Entity Credit Risk [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Embedded Derivative Liability, Measurement Input Embedded Derivative Liability, Measurement Input Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Securities Financing Transaction, Type [Domain] Securities Investment Securities Investment [Member] 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. Investments in any counterparty that were greater than 10% of equity Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Investments Securities holdings exposure in single issuer greater than stated percentage of Company's equity Concentration Risk, Percentage Financial or other support to investees designated as VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] 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. Change in Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Tax 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 maturity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage Fixed Maturities Available For Sale With Gross Unrealized Loss Of Equal To Or Greater Than Stated Percentage Investment disclosure of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale with gross unrealized loss of equal to or greater than stated percentage. State and political subdivision Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract] Amortized Cost Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross Unrealized Temporary Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Gross Unrealized OTTI Loss Other Than Temporary Impairments On Debt Securities Transferred To Other Comprehensive Income Loss Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income loss. Net Amount at Risk, by Product and Guarantee [Table] Universal Life Contracts Universal Life [Member] Variable Life Contracts Variable Life [Member] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Secondary Guarantees Secondary Guarantees [Member] Secondary Guarantees. Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items] Total account value (3) Net Amount At Risk By Product And Guarantee General And Separate Account Value Value of the separate and general accounts corresponding to the specified product, guarantee type and subset of the guarantee. Net amount at risk Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk Average attained age of policyholders Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Amortized Cost, Due in one year or less Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after one year through five years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after five years through ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Through Ten Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Due after ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Maturity, after 10 Years, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Structured Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Amortized Cost, Subtotal Estimated Fair Value, Due in one year or less Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, within One Year, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after one year through five years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after five years through ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Due after ten years Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, after 10 Years, Fair Value Estimated Fair Value, Structured Securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Annuities Annuities [Member] Annuities. Life Life [Member] Life. Run-off Run-off [Member] Segment which consists of products no longer actively sold and which are separately managed. Corporate & Other Corporate and Other [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Assets Assets Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities available-for-sale Mortgage loans valuation allowances Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Non-Income Producing Debt Securities Non-Income Producing Debt Securities [Member] Non-income producing debt securities. Summary of Certain Fixed Maturity Securities Gross Unrealized Gain loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] 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. Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Domain] Ceded guaranteed minimum income benefits Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Ceded Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Direct guaranteed minimum benefits Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Fixed Annuity Fixed Annuity [Member] Assumed index-linked annuities Assumed Reinsurance [Member] All or part of a ceding company's insurance or reinsurance on a risk or exposure that is accepted. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative, Net [Abstract] Compensation Labor and Related Expense Contracted services and other labor costs Professional Fees Transition services agreements Transition Services Agreements Costs incurred for services provided by the former parent during transition period after spin-off. Establishment costs Establishment Costs Costs incurred related to the establishment of services and infrastructure to replace those previously provided by the former parent prior to spin-off. Premium and other taxes, licenses and fees Cost, Direct Tax and License Separate account fees Custody Fees Volume related costs, excluding compensation, net of DAC capitalization Cost, Overhead Interest expense on debt Interest and Debt Expense Other Other General and Administrative Expense Total other expenses Operating Expenses Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Nonperformance Risk Nonperformance Risk [Member] Non-performance Risk Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Guarantee [Axis] Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Direct And Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit [Member] Direct & Assumed Guaranteed Minimum Benefit Member. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Embedded derivatives gains (losses) Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Business, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Net Investment Income Net Investment Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Cash equivalents Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Net unrealized investment gains (losses): Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives - cash flow hedges: Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent [Member] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest rate forwards Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign currency swaps Currency Swap [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Net unrealized investment gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Investments Income (loss) before provision for income tax Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax (expense) benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 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] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimated Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Mortgage loans Fair Value Mortgage Loans Net Not On Recurring Basis Total amount of mortgage loans not valued on a recurring basis as of the balance sheet date. Policy loans Loans, Gross, Insurance Policy Other invested assets Other Investments Fair Value Disclosure Fair value portion of other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Receivables, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposits, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value portion of the liability of policyholders for deposits held under the terms of insurance contracts. Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Separate account liabilities Separate Accounts, Liability Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Premiums Premiums Earned, Net Universal life and investment-type product policy fees Insurance Commissions and Fees Net investment income Other revenues Other Income Net investment gains (losses) Net derivative gains (losses) 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 Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Other expenses Total expenses Benefits, Losses and Expenses Provision for income tax expense (benefit) Net income (loss) Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) available to Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Brighthouse Financial, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Term Loan Due 2024 Term Loan Due 2024 [Member] Term Loan Due 2024. Term Loan Due 2019 Term Loan Due 2019 [Member] Term Loan due 2019. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Credit facilities, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit facilities, term Debt Instrument, Term Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Repayments of long-term debt 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] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Components of Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated fair value, maximum amount of future payments and weighted average years to maturity of written credit default swaps Disclosure of Credit Derivatives [Table Text Block] Estimated Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities after Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block] Estimated Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities after Master Netting Agreements and Cash Collateral Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Recurring Fair Value Measurements Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Quantitative Information Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Carried at Other Than Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Corporate (1) Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Structured Securities Structured Securities [Member] Structured Securities. Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Short Term Investments Short-term Investments [Member] Separate Account Assets (4) Separate account assets [Member] Separate Account Assets Member. Net Derivatives (2) NetDerivatives [Member] The derivative assets and liabilities measured with unobservable inputs, including interest rate contracts, foreign currency exchange rate contracts, credit contracts, and equity market contracts. Embedded derivatives Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (6) (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Purchases (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Sales (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Issuances (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances Settlements (7) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance, end of period Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at end of period Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) (5) (6) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) included in AOCI Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Purchases (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Purchases Sales (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Sales Issuances (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Issues Settlements (7) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements Transfers into Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (8) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers out of Level 3 Balance, end of period Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income (loss) for the instruments still held at end of period Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Number of segments Number of Reportable Segments Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation of Subsidiaries, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] 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, December 31, 2018 Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Attributable To Company This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to the Company. Unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Unrealized Investment Gains Losses During Period This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to unrealized investment gains (losses) during the period. Unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to: Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Future policy benefits Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Insurance Liability Gain Loss Recognition This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to insurance liability gain (loss) recognition. DAC, VOBA and DSI Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Related To Dac And Voba This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to DAC and VOBA. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Income Tax Expense On Change In Unrealized Gain Or (Loss) This item represents the tax effects occurring during the period which are related to the net unrealized gain (loss) resulting from changes in the fair [carrying] value during the period of available-for-sale securities and from changes in certain insurance related assets and liabilities. Such tax affects would have been charged or credited directly to other comprehensive income or to related components of shareholders' equity. Balance, March 31, 2019 Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) Changes In Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Attributable To Company This item presents the increase (decrease) in net unrealized investment gains (losses) attributable to the Company. Invested assets on deposit (regulatory deposits) (1) Invested assets held in trust (reinsurance agreements) (2) Invested assets pledged as collateral (3) Invested Assets Pledged As Collateral Invested assets pledged as collateral. Total invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral Invested Assets On Deposit Held In Trust And Pledged As Collateral The element presents the invested assets on deposit, held in trust and pledged as collateral. Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Mortgage loans Mortgages [Member] Policy loans Policy Loans [Member] Real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Real Estate Investment [Member] Other limited partnership interests Limited Partner [Member] Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Other Other Investments [Member] Subtotal Net Investment Income [Line Items] Net Investment Income [Line Items] Gross: Investment Income, Operating Gross Investment Income, Operating Less: Investment expenses Investment Income, Investment Expense Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction [Domain] Transaction [Domain] Over the Counter Over the Counter [Member] Exchange Cleared Exchange Cleared [Member] Exchange Traded Exchange Traded [Member] Accrued Liabilities Accrued Liabilities [Member] Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Customer Securities for which Entity has Right to Sell or Repledge, Fair Value of Securities Sold or Repledged Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Debt Investments Equity securities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Other net investment gains (losses) [Abstract] Realized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract] Mortgage loans Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies 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 Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Common Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Interest rate derivatives Foreign currency exchange rate derivatives Credit derivatives Equity derivatives Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net derivative gains (losses) Net Derivative Gain (Loss) [Member] Net Derivative Gain Loss. Net Investment Income (1), (3), (7) Investment Income [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefit And Claim [Member] Primary financial statement caption encompassing policyholder benefits and claims. Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash flow hedges (5): Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments: Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized for Hedged Items (2), (6) Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Amount of Gains (Losses) deferred in AOCI Gains Losses Deferred In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss On Derivatives Effective Portion The current period gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income related to the effective portion of derivatives designated in cash flow hedges. Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments: Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated or Not Qualifying as Hedging Instruments: Cash flow hedges: Interest rate swaps Interest rate caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate futures Futures [Member] Futures. Interest rate options Interest Rate Swaption [Member] Foreign currency swaps Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Credit default swaps Credit default swaps — purchased Credit Default Swap, Buying Protection [Member] Credit default swaps — written Credit Default Swap, Selling Protection [Member] Equity futures Equity Futures [Member] Equity Futures Member. Equity index options Equity Option [Member] Equity variance swaps Variance Swap [Member] Equity total return swaps Equity Total Return Swaps [Member] Contracts where a set of future cash flows are agreed to be exchanged at set dates in the future and are broken down as floating and equity legs. The floating leg is tied to LIBOR and the equity leg is based on performance of a stock or stock market index. Gross Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Policyholder benefits and claims Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Net [Member] Policyholder benefits and claims incurred net. Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Table] Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Table] Debt Securities Limited Partner Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership [Line Items] Carrying Amount, Assets Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Carrying Amount, Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Fixed Maturities Fixed Maturities [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Estimated Fair Value of Derivatives in Net Liability Position Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Estimated Fair Value of Collateral Provided Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Components of net unrealized investment gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Debt Securities That Were Temporarily Impaired This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to fixed maturity securities that were temporarily impaired. Derivatives Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Derivatives This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to derivatives. Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Other Investments This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to other investments. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Investment Gains (Losses) Components This item presents the subtotal of net unrealized investment gains (losses) relating to fixed maturity securities, equity securities, derivatives and other investments. Future policy benefits Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Insurance Liability Loss Recognition This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from insurance liability loss recognition. DAC, VOBA and DSI Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Allocated From Dac And Voba This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated from DAC and VOBA. Subtotal Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Subtotal Of Allocated Amounts This item presents the subtotal of unrealized investment gains (losses) related to allocated amounts. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Related To Deferred Income Tax Benefit Expense This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses) related to deferred income tax benefit (expense). Net unrealized investment gains (losses) Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss This item presents net unrealized investment gains (losses). Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] All services and transactions except broker dealer activities All Services and Transactions Except Broker Dealer Activities [Member] All services and transactions except Broker Dealer activities. Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Income (1) Revenue from Related Parties Expense (2) Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Insurance Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] Continuous Gross Unrealized Loss and OTTI Loss for Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities Available-for-Sale Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated 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 Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Pre-tax adjusted earnings Post-tax adjusted earnings Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Adjusted earnings Operating Income (Loss) Other adjustments to net income Net income (loss) available to Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s common shareholders Interest revenue Interest Revenue (Expense), Net Interest expense Interest Expense Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Earnings per common share - Basic Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Axis] Restatement [Domain] Restatement [Domain] Restatement adjustment Restatement Adjustment [Member] Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses), Net of Related Offsets (1) Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Balance, beginning of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of income tax New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Restated balance, beginning of period OCI before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassifications, Tax AOCI before reclassifications, net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of income tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Balance, end of period Offsetting Assets [Table] OTC-bilateral OTC-cleared and 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. 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 assets Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash, Offset Cash collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset Securities collateral on derivative assets Derivative Asset, Collateral, Obligation to Return Securities, Offset Amount of obligation to return securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative assets. Securities collateral on derivative liabilities Derivative Liability, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities, Offset Amount of right to receive securities collateral under master netting arrangements offset against derivative liabilities. Net amount of derivative assets after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net amount of derivative liabilities after application of master netting agreements and cash collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Segment Information Segment Reporting 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 Small Business Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table] Fair Value Option, Disclosures [Table] Other invested assets [Member] Other invested assets [Member] Other invested assets. Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items] Percentage Estimated Fair Value Percentage Estimated Fair Value This percentage represents the net estimated fair value of freestanding derivatives. Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Spinoff [Member] Spinoff [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Common Stock Distribution by Parent Common Stock Distribution by Parent Percentage of common stock that parent intends to distribute Common Stock Retained by Parent Common Stock Retained by Parent Percentage of common stock retained by parent. Number of Reportable Segments Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Financing Receivable Portfolio Segment [Axis] Commercial Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Significant purchases Financing Receivable, Significant Purchases Estimated fair value Financing Receivable, Net Percentage of mortgage loans classified as performing Percentage of Mortgage Loans Classified as Performing The percentage of all mortgage loans that are classified as performing. Number of loans past due Financing Receivable Number of Contract of Recorded Investment Past Due Reflects the number of financing receivables of recorded investment that are past due at the balance sheet date. Recorded investment of loans past due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Number of loans in nonaccrual status Loans and Leases Receivable, Number of Contract, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Reflects the number of loans deemed to be questionable as to collection on which no interest is continuing to be recognized. Recorded investment of loans in nonaccrual status Loans and Leases Receivable, Nonperforming, Nonaccrual of Interest Number of loans modified in troubled debt restructuring Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts Investments: Investments [Abstract] Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value (amortized cost: $61,101 and $60,920, respectively) Equity securities, at estimated fair value Mortgage loans (net of valuation allowances of $60 and $57, respectively) Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Commercial and Consumer, Net Real estate limited partnerships and limited liability companies Real Estate Investments, Net Other limited partnership interests Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Short-term investments, principally at estimated fair value Other invested assets, principally at estimated fair value Other Investments Total investments Investments Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued investment income Accrued Investment Income Receivable Premiums, reinsurance and other receivables Premiums and Other Receivables, Net Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Net Current income tax recoverable Income Taxes Receivable Other assets Other Assets Total assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Future policy benefits Liability for Future Policy Benefits Policyholder account balances Policyholder Contract Deposits Other policy-related balances Other Policyholder Funds Payables for collateral under securities loaned and other transactions Obligation to Return Securities Received as Collateral Long-term debt Long-term Debt Current income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes Deferred income tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities Other Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities Contingencies, Commitments and Guarantees (Note 11) Commitments and Contingencies Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; $425 aggregate liquidation preference at March 31, 2019 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 120,552,514 and 120,448,018 shares issued, respectively; 116,182,687 and 117,532,336 shares outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost; 4,369,827 and 2,915,682 shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Total Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock at Cost Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Brighthouse Financial, Inc.’s Stockholders’ Equity Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Preferred stock issuance Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle and other, net of income tax Treasury stock acquired in connection with share repurchases Share-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Change in noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance 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] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2024 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Maturing 2019 2019 Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] 2019 Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan [Member] 2019 Authorization Under 10b5-1 Plan Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] 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. % 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. Variable Annuity Guarantees Variable Annuity [Member] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Axis] Guaranteed Insurance Contract, Type of Benefit [Domain] Guaranteed Death Benefits Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] Guaranteed Annuitization Benefits Annuitization Benefit [Member] Total account value (3) Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, General Account Value Separate account value Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value Average attained age of contract holders Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Table] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Loans and Leases Receivable Disclosure [Line Items] Carrying Value Mortgage loans, gross as a percentage of total mortgage loans, net Percentage Of Loans Receivable To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of loans receivable to total mortgage loans on real estate, net of valuation allowances. Mortgage loans valuation allowances Mortgage loans valuation allowances as a percentage of total mortgage loans, net Percentage Of Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses Real Estate To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Allowance For Loan And Lease Losses on Real Estate to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Total mortgage loans, net Total mortgage loans, net as a percentage of total mortgage loans, net Percentage Of Mortgage Loans On Real Estate To Mortgage Loans On Real Estate Commercial And Consumer Net Percentage of Mortgage Loans On Real Estate to total Mortgage Loans on Real Estate. Earnings Per Common Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block]