United Fire (UFCS) 10-K 5 Mar 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 27, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Trading Symbol	'UFCS	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'UNITED FIRE GROUP INC	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000101199	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	25,369,693	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$592.40

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fixed maturities	'	'
Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $669 in 2013 and $1,681 in 2012)	$656	$1,655
Available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost $2,733,557 in 2013 and $2,657,800 in 2012)	2,751,256	2,808,078
Trading securities, at fair value (amortized cost $8,049 in 2013 and $12,645 in 2012)	9,940	13,353
Equity securities	'	'
Available-for-sale, at fair value (cost $70,957 in 2013 and $66,892 in 2012)	229,368	177,127
Trading securities, at fair value (cost $2,367 in 2013 and $1,772 in 2012)	2,487	2,018
Mortgage loans	4,423	4,633
Policy loans	6,261	6,671
Other long-term investments	44,946	30,028
Short-term investments	800	800
Total Investments	3,050,137	3,044,363
Cash and cash equivalents	92,193	107,466
Accrued investment income	27,923	30,375
Premiums receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $896 in 2013 and $866 in 2012)	218,635	188,289
Deferred policy acquisition costs	150,092	105,300
Property and equipment (primarily land and buildings, at cost, less accumulated depreciation of $36,972 in 2013 and $34,093 in 2012)	47,218	43,090
Reinsurance receivables and recoverables	87,451	114,399
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	3,160	2,963
Income taxes receivable	1,786	16,536
Goodwill and net intangible assets	27,047	28,259
Other assets	15,030	13,613
TOTAL ASSETS	3,720,672	3,694,653
Future policy benefits and losses, claims and loss settlement expenses	'	'
Property and casualty insurance	960,651	971,911
Life insurance	1,472,132	1,498,176
Unearned premiums	340,464	311,650
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	142,677	164,111
Deferred income taxes	21,915	19,628
TOTAL LIABILITIES	2,937,839	2,965,476
Stockholders' Equity	'	'
Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 75,000,000 shares; 25,360,893 and 25,227,463 shares issued and outstanding in 2013 and 2012, respectively	25	25
Additional paid-in capital	211,574	208,536
Retained earnings	484,084	425,428
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	87,150	95,188
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	782,833	729,177
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$3,720,672	$3,694,653

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'
Fixed maturities, Held-to-maturity securities, at fair value	$669	$1,681
Fixed maturities, Available-for-sale securities, at amortized cost	2,733,557	2,657,800
Fixed maturities, Trading securities, at amortized cost	8,049	12,645
Equity Securities, Available-for-sale securities, at amortized cost	70,957	66,892
Equity Securities, Trading securities, at amortized cost	2,367	1,772
Allowance for doubtful accounts	896	866
Property and equipment accumulated depreciation	$36,972	$34,093
Common stock, par value per share (in usd per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	75,000,000	75,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	25,360,893	25,227,463
Common stock, shares outstanding	25,360,893	25,227,463

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Revenues	'	'		'
Net premiums earned	$754,846	$694,994		$586,783
Investment income, net of investment expenses	112,799	111,905		109,494
Net realized investment gains (losses)	'	'		'
Other-than-temporary impairment charges	-139	-4		-395
All other net realized gains (includes reclassifications for net unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities of $6,812 in 2013; $4,102 in 2012; and $7,369 in 2011 previously included in accumulated other comprehensive income)	8,834	5,457		6,835
Total net realized investment gains	8,695	5,453		6,440
Other income	702	891		2,291
Total revenues	877,042	813,243		705,008
Benefits, Losses and Expenses	'	'		'
Losses and loss settlement expenses	458,814	459,706		430,389
Increase in liability for future policy benefits	37,625	43,095		32,567
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	153,677	141,834		153,176
Other underwriting expenses (includes reclassifications for employee benefit costs of $5,868 in 2013; $4,971 in 2012; and $2,570 in 2011 previously included in accumulated other comprehensive income)	89,861	81,125		58,757
Interest on policyholdersb accounts	35,163	41,409		42,834
Total benefits, losses and expenses	775,140	767,169		717,723
Income (loss) before income taxes	101,902	46,074		-12,715
Federal income tax expense (benefit) (includes reclassifications of ($331) in 2013; $304 in 2012; and ($1,680) in 2011 previously included in accumulated other comprehensive income)	25,762	5,862		-12,726
Net income	76,140	40,212		11
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'		'
Change in net unrealized appreciation on investments	-35,489	34,436		40,795
Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans	24,066	-15,922		-27,528
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax and reclassification adjustments	-11,423	18,514		13,267
Income tax effect	3,998	-6,477		-4,540
Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax, before reclassification adjustments	-7,425	12,037		8,727
Reclassifications for unrealized net gains on available-for-sale securities	-6,812	-4,102		-7,369
Reclassification adjustment for employee benefit costs included in expense	5,868	4,971		2,570
Total reclassification adjustments, before tax	-944	869		-4,799
Income tax effect	331	-304		1,680
Total reclassification adjustments, after tax	-613	565		-3,119
Comprehensive income	$68,102	$52,814		$5,619
Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	25,325,695	25,447,918		25,878,535
Basic earnings per common share (in usd per share)	$3.01	$1.58	[1]	$0
Diluted earnings per common share (in usd per share)	$2.98	$1.58	[1]	$0
[1]	The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc1

Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'
Reclassifications for unrealized net gains on available-for-sale securities	($6,812)	($4,102)	($7,369)
Reclassification adjustment for employee benefit costs	$5,868	$4,971	$2,570

Consolidated_Statement_of_Stoc

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)		Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax [Member]
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance, beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2010		$716,424	$26	$223,439	$415,981	$76,978
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense and related tax benefit for stock-based award grants		'	'	1,830	'	'
Shares repurchased		'	-1	-12,432	'	'
Shares issued for stock-based awards		'	0	208	'	'
Net income		11	'	'	11	'
Dividends on common stock ($0.69 per share in 2013; $0.60 per share in 2012 and 2011)		'	'	'	-15,507	'
Change in net unrealized investment appreciation	[1]	'	'	'	'	21,727
Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans	[2]	'	'	'	'	-16,119
All other changes in stockholders' equity accounts		-20,294	'	'	'	'
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2011		696,141	25	213,045	400,485	82,586
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense and related tax benefit for stock-based award grants		'	'	1,686	'	'
Shares repurchased		'	0	-7,301	'	'
Shares issued for stock-based awards		'	0	1,106	'	'
Net income		40,212	'	'	40,212	'
Dividends on common stock ($0.69 per share in 2013; $0.60 per share in 2012 and 2011)		'	'	'	-15,269	'
Change in net unrealized investment appreciation	[1]	'	'	'	'	19,720
Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans	[2]	'	'	'	'	-7,118
All other changes in stockholders' equity accounts		-7,176	'	'	'	'
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2012		729,177	25	208,536	425,428	95,188
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'
Compensation expense and related tax benefit for stock-based award grants		'	'	1,289	'	'
Shares repurchased		'	0	-1,644	'	'
Shares issued for stock-based awards		'	0	3,393	'	'
Net income		76,140	'	'	76,140	'
Dividends on common stock ($0.69 per share in 2013; $0.60 per share in 2012 and 2011)		'	'	'	-17,484	'
Change in net unrealized investment appreciation	[1]	'	'	'	'	-27,495
Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans	[2]	'	'	'	'	19,457
All other changes in stockholders' equity accounts		-22,484	'	'	'	'
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2013		$782,833	$25	$211,574	$484,084	$87,150
[1]	The change in net unrealized appreciation is net of reclassification adjustments and income taxes.
[2]	The change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans is net of income taxes.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'	'
Shares issued for stock-based awards (in shares)	193,033	87,363	12,745
Dividends on common stock (in usd per share)	$0.69	$0.60	$0.60
Shares repurchased (in shares)	59,603	340,159	702,947

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash Flows From Operating Activities	'	'	'
Net income	$76,140	$40,212	$11
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities	'	'	'
Net accretion of bond premium	15,291	15,183	11,638
Depreciation and amortization	5,603	7,979	5,583
Stock-based compensation expense	1,777	1,764	1,829
Net realized investment gains	-8,695	-5,453	-6,440
Net cash flows from trading investments	3,852	403	-1,993
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	-368	7,452	-6,288
Changes in:	'	'	'
Accrued investment income	2,452	1,844	499
Premiums receivable	-30,346	-15,941	-12,067
Deferred policy acquisition costs	-2,690	-3,467	11,709
Reinsurance receivables	26,948	14,175	-23,649
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	-197	3,228	1,684
Income taxes receivable	14,750	10,206	-6,310
Other assets	-1,417	3,603	9,970
Future policy benefits and losses, claims and loss settlement expenses	21,251	64,384	67,302
Unearned premiums	28,814	22,659	16,401
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	8,499	14,950	3,504
Deferred income taxes	6,983	-8,234	-82
Other, net	-7,156	-2,871	1,130
Total adjustments	85,351	131,864	74,420
Net cash provided by operating activities	161,491	172,076	74,431
Cash Flows From Investing Activities	'	'	'
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale investments	23,007	20,324	39,496
Proceeds from call and maturity of held-to-maturity investments	1,004	2,709	2,243
Proceeds from call and maturity of available-for-sale investments	477,071	527,720	563,515
Proceeds from short-term and other investments	7,170	4,810	4,741
Purchase of held-to-maturity investments	0	-200	0
Purchase of available-for-sale investments	-587,412	-653,467	-595,162
Purchase of short-term and other investments	-14,375	-10,350	-3,357
Net purchases and sales of property and equipment	-8,451	-2,886	-14,048
Acquisition of property and casualty company, net of cash acquired	0	0	-172,620
Net cash used in investing activities	-101,986	-111,340	-175,192
Policyholdersb account balances	'	'	'
Deposits to investment and universal life contracts	150,272	141,252	170,678
Withdrawals from investment and universal life contracts	-208,827	-156,881	-119,716
Borrowings of short-term debt	0	0	124,900
Repayment of short-term debt	0	-45,000	-82,900
Repayment of trust preferred securities	0	-15,626	0
Payment of cash dividends	-17,484	-15,269	-15,507
Repurchase of common stock	-1,644	-7,301	-12,433
Issuance of common stock	3,393	1,106	208
Tax impact from issuance of common stock	-488	-78	1
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-74,778	-97,797	65,231
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents	-15,273	-37,061	-35,530
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	107,466	144,527	180,057
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year	$92,193	$107,466	$144,527

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	'
	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Nature of Business
	United Fire Group, Inc. (“United Fire”, the “Registrant”, the “Company”,“we,” “us,” or “our”) and its consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates are engaged in the business of writing property and casualty insurance and life insurance and selling annuities through a network of independent agencies. We report our operations in two business segments: property and casualty insurance and life insurance. Our insurance company subsidiaries are licensed as a property and casualty insurer in 43 states, plus the District of Columbia, and as a life insurer in 37 states.
	On March 28, 2011, we acquired 100 percent of the outstanding common stock of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. for $191,475. The acquisition was funded through a combination of cash and $79,900 of short-term debt. Accordingly, the results of operations for Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. have been included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from that date forward. The acquisition allowed us to diversify our exposure to weather and other catastrophe risks across our geographic markets. In connection with the acquisition transaction, we incurred $8,318 of transaction costs, which included $5,540 of expense related to change in control payments made to the former executive officers of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc.
	Holding Company Reorganization
	On February 1, 2012, United Fire & Casualty Company completed a corporate reorganization (the “Reorganization”) that resulted in the creation of United Fire Group, Inc., an Iowa corporation, as the holding company and sole owner of United Fire & Casualty Company. In connection with the Reorganization, each share of United Fire & Casualty Company common stock (par value $3.33 1/3 per share) that was issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective date was automatically converted into a share of United Fire Group, Inc. common stock (par value $0.001 per share). In addition, each outstanding option to purchase or other right to acquire shares of United Fire & Casualty Company common stock was automatically converted into an option to purchase or right to acquire, upon the same terms and conditions, an identical number of shares of United Fire Group, Inc. common stock. United Fire Group, Inc. became the publicly held corporation upon completion of the Reorganization.
	We have accounted for the Reorganization as a merger of entities under common control, which is similar to the former “pooling of interests method” to account for business combinations. Accordingly, the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include the consolidated financial position and results of operations of United Fire & Casualty Company on the same basis as was historically presented, except that the amount reported for common stock at par value has been retrospectively restated to report the par value of United Fire Group, Inc. common stock. The resulting difference has been recorded in additional paid-in capital for all periods presented.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include United Fire and its wholly owned subsidiaries: United Fire & Casualty Company, United Real Estate Holdings Company, LLC, United Life Insurance Company (“United Life”), Addison Insurance Company, American Indemnity Financial Corporation, Lafayette Insurance Company, United Fire & Indemnity Company, Texas General Indemnity Company (currently in run-off) and Mercer Insurance Group, Inc., which includes BICUS Services Corporation (currently inactive), Financial Pacific Insurance Company, Financial Pacific Insurance Group, Inc., Franklin Insurance Company, Mercer Insurance Company, and Mercer Insurance Company of New Jersey, Inc. (collectively, “Mercer Insurance Group”).
	United Fire Lloyds, an affiliate of United Fire & Indemnity Company, is organized as a Texas Lloyds plan, which is an aggregation of underwriters who, under a common name, engage in the business of insurance through a corporate attorney-in-fact. United Fire Lloyds is financially and operationally controlled by United Fire & Indemnity Company, its corporate attorney-in-fact, pursuant to three types of agreements: trust agreements between United Fire & Indemnity Company and certain individuals who agree to serve as trustees; articles of agreement among the trustees who agree to act as underwriters to establish how the Lloyds plan will be operated; and powers of attorney from each of the underwriters appointing a corporate attorney-in-fact, who is authorized to operate the Lloyds plan. Because United Fire & Indemnity Company can name the trustees, the Lloyds plan is perpetual, subject only to United Fire & Indemnity Company’s desire to terminate it.
	United Fire & Indemnity Company provides all of the statutory capital necessary for the formation of the Lloyds plan by contributing capital to each of the trustees. The trust agreements require the trustees to become underwriters of the Lloyds plan, to contribute the capital to the Lloyds plan, to sign the articles of agreement and to appoint the attorney-in-fact. The trust agreements also require the trustees to pay to United Fire & Indemnity Company all of the profits and benefits received by the trustees as underwriters of the Lloyds plan, which means that United Fire & Indemnity Company has the right to receive 100 percent of the gains and profits from the Lloyds plan. The trustees serve at the pleasure of United Fire & Indemnity Company, which may remove a trustee and replace that trustee at any time. Termination of a trustee must be accompanied by the resignation of the trustee as an underwriter, so that the trustee can obtain the capital contribution from the Lloyds plan to reimburse United Fire & Indemnity Company. By retaining the ability to terminate trustees, United Fire & Indemnity Company possesses the ability to name and remove the underwriters.
	United Real Estate Holdings, LLC, formed in 2013, is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Fire & Casualty Company and is organized as an Iowa Limited Liability Corporation, an unincorporated association formed for the purpose of holding United Fire & Casualty Company’s ownership in commercial real estate.
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared on the basis of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), which differ in some respects from those followed in preparing our statutory reports to insurance regulatory authorities. Our stand-alone financial statements submitted to insurance regulatory authorities are presented on the basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the insurance departments of the states in which we are domiciled (“statutory accounting principles”).
	In the preparation of the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements, we have evaluated all material subsequent events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date through the date on which the financial statements were issued for potential recognition or disclosure.
	Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The financial statement categories that are most dependent on management estimates and assumptions include: investments; deferred policy acquisition costs; reinsurance receivables and recoverables (for net realizable value); future policy benefits and losses, claims and loss settlement expenses; and pension and postretirement benefit obligations.
	Property and Casualty Insurance Business
	Premiums written are deferred and recorded as earned premium on a daily pro rata basis over the terms of the respective policies. Unearned premium reserves are established for the portion of premiums written applicable to the unexpired term of insurance policies in force. Premiums receivable are presented net of an estimated allowance for doubtful accounts, which is based on a periodic evaluation of the aging and collectability of amounts due from agents and policyholders.
	To establish loss and loss settlement expense reserves, we make estimates and assumptions about the future development of claims. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates, which are subjective, complex and inherently uncertain. When we establish and adjust reserves, we do so given our knowledge at the time of the circumstances and facts of known claims. To the extent that we have overestimated or underestimated our loss and loss settlement expense reserves, we adjust the reserves in the period in which such adjustment is determined.
	We record our best estimate of reserves for claim litigation that arises in the ordinary course of business. We consider all of our pending litigation as of December 31, 2013 to be ordinary, routine and incidental to our business.
	Life Insurance Business
	Our whole life and term insurance (i.e., traditional business) premiums are reported as earned when due and benefits and expenses are associated with premium income in order to result in the recognition of profits over the lives of the related contracts. Premiums receivable are presented net of an estimated allowance for doubtful accounts. Income annuities with life contingencies (single premium immediate annuities and supplementary contracts) have premium recorded and any related expense charge fees recorded as income and expense when the contract is issued. On universal life and deferred annuity policies (i.e., non-traditional business), income and expenses are reported when charged and credited to policyholder account balances in order to result in recognition of profits over the lives of the related contracts. We accomplish this by means of a provision for future policy benefits and the deferral and subsequent amortization of policy acquisition costs.
	Liabilities for future policy benefits for traditional products are computed by the net level premium method, using interest assumptions ranging from 4.5 percent to 6.0 percent and withdrawal, mortality and morbidity assumptions appropriate at the time the policies were issued. Liabilities for non-traditional business are stated at policyholder account values before surrender charges. Liabilities for traditional immediate annuities are based primarily upon future anticipated cash flows using assumptions for mortality and interest rates. Liabilities for deferred annuities are carried at the account value.
	Reinsurance
	Premiums earned and losses and loss settlement expenses incurred are reported net of reinsurance ceded. Ceded insurance business is accounted for on a basis consistent with the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. Refer to Note 4 “Reinsurance” for a discussion of our reinsurance activities.
	Investments
	Investments in fixed maturities include bonds and redeemable preferred stocks. Our investments in held-to-maturity fixed maturities are recorded at amortized cost. Our investments in available-for-sale fixed maturities and trading securities are recorded at fair value.
	Investments in equity securities, which include common and non-redeemable preferred stocks, are classified as available-for-sale or trading and are recorded at fair value.
	Changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation, with respect to available-for-sale fixed maturities and equity securities, are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of applicable deferred income taxes, in stockholders’ equity.
	Other long-term investments consist primarily of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting. Mortgage loans are recorded at their unpaid principal balance. Policy loans are recorded at the outstanding loan amount due from policyholders. Included in investments at December 31, 2013 and 2012, are securities on deposit with, or available to, various regulatory authorities as required by law, with fair values of $1,620,505 and $1,736,466, respectively.
	In 2013, 2012 and 2011, we recorded a pre-tax realized loss of $139, $4 and $395, respectively, as a result of the recognition of other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) charges on certain holdings in our investment portfolio. None of the OTTI charges were considered to have a noncredit related loss component. We review all of our investment holdings for appropriate valuation on an ongoing basis. Refer to Note 2 “Summary of Investments” for a discussion of our accounting policy for impairment recognition.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash, money market accounts, and non-negotiable certificates of deposit with original maturities of three months or less.
	In 2013, 2012, and 2011, we made payments for income taxes of $13,628, $11,920 and $570, respectively. In addition, we received federal tax refunds of $8,744 and $15,798 in 2013 and 2012, respectively, that resulted from the utilization of our 2009 net operating losses and net capital losses in the carryback period. No tax refunds were received in 2011. We made no interest payments in 2013. In 2012 and 2011, we made interest payments of $961 and $1,926, respectively. These payments exclude interest credited to policyholders’ accounts.
	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (“DAC”)
	Certain costs associated with underwriting new business (primarily commissions, premium taxes and variable underwriting and policy issue expenses associated with successful acquisition efforts) are deferred. The following table is a summary of the components of DAC that are reported in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements:
	Property & Casualty	2013			2012			2011
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	64,947		$	60,668		$	44,681
	Underwriting costs deferred	149,891			138,723			132,503
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(147,175		)	(132,771		)	(118,189		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	67,663		$	64,947		$	60,668
	Life Insurance
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	40,353		$	45,986		$	42,843
	Underwriting costs deferred	6,476			6,578			8,965
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(6,502		)	(7,390		)	(9,224		)
		$	40,327		$	45,174		$	42,584
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	82,429		$	40,353		$	45,986
	Total
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	105,300		$	106,654		$	87,524
	Underwriting costs deferred	156,367			145,301			141,468
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(153,677		)	(140,161		)	(127,413		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
		$	107,990		$	110,121		$	103,252
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	150,092		$	105,300		$	106,654
	Property and casualty policy acquisition costs deferred are amortized as premium revenue is recognized. The method followed in computing DAC limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value. This takes into account the premium to be earned, losses and loss settlement expenses to be incurred and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned.
	For traditional life insurance policies, DAC is amortized to income over the premium-paying period in proportion to the ratio of the expected annual premium revenue to the expected total premium revenue. Expected premium revenue and gross profits are based on the same mortality and withdrawal assumptions used in determining future policy benefits. These assumptions are not revised after policy issuance unless the recorded DAC asset is deemed to be unrecoverable from future expected profits.
For non-traditional life insurance policies, DAC is amortized over the anticipated terms in proportion to the ratio of the expected annual gross profits to the total expected gross profits. Changes in the amount or timing of expected gross profits result in adjustments to the cumulative amortization of these costs. The effect on amortization of DAC for revisions to estimated gross profits is reported in earnings in the period the estimated gross profits are revised.
The effect on DAC that results from the assumed realization of unrealized gains (losses) on investments allocated to non-traditional life insurance business is recognized with an offset, or “shadow” DAC, to net unrealized investment appreciation as of the balance sheet date. The “shadow” DAC adjustment increased the DAC asset by $3,407 and decreased the DAC asset by $38,695 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
In October 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued updated accounting guidance to address the diversity in practice for the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance modifies the definition of acquisition costs to specify that a cost must be incremental and directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. Acquisition costs that are not eligible for deferral are to be charged to expense in the period incurred.
Effective January 1, 2012, we elected to adopt the updated accounting guidance on a prospective basis. As a result of the adoption, the amount of underwriting expenses eligible for deferral has decreased. After consideration of our normal recoverability assessment and the amortization pattern of our deferred policy acquisition costs, we recognized approximately $10,291 more expense (pretax) in 2012 than we would have had the guidance remained the same. The impact of the adoption on the amounts reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income was an increase to other underwriting expenses of $25,528, a decrease to deferred policy acquisition cost amortization of $15,237 and a reduction in net income of $6,689 or $0.26 per share. The 2013 DAC asset has been computed on a comparable basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012.
Property, Equipment and Depreciation
Property and equipment is presented at cost less accumulated depreciation. At December 31, 2013, the Company had property and equipment of $47,218, which included buildings of $29,072, land of $7,163, furniture and fixtures of $2,707, computer equipment and software of $3,197 and an airplane of $5,079. At December 31, 2012, the Company had property and equipment of $43,090, which included buildings of $25,186, land of $6,879, furniture and fixtures of $1,024, computer equipment and software of $3,076 and an airplane of $6,925. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are generally expensed as incurred. We periodically review these assets for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the underlying asset may not be recoverable. A loss would be recognized if the estimated fair value of the asset were less than its carrying value.
Depreciation is computed primarily by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
	Useful Life
Computer equipment	Three years
Furniture and fixtures	Seven years
Leasehold improvements	Shorter of the lease term or useful life of the asset
Real estate	Seven to thirty-nine years
Software	Three years
Depreciation expense totaled $4,391, $5,440 and $3,661 for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and other intangible assets arise as a result of business combinations and consist of the excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We evaluate goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment at least on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets may exceed its implied fair value. Goodwill is evaluated at the reporting unit level. Any impairment is charged to operations in the period that the impairment is identified. In 2013 and 2012, we performed a qualitative assessment of our goodwill. As a result of this assessment, we did not recognize an impairment charge on our goodwill in 2013 or 2012.
Our intangible assets, which consist primarily of agency relationships, trade names, licenses, and software, are being amortized by the straight-line method over periods ranging from 2 years to 15 years, with the exception of licenses, which are indefinite-lived and not amortized. We performed a qualitative assessment of our intangible assets. As a result of this assessment, we did not recognize an impairment charge on our intangible assets in 2013, 2012 and 2011. Amortization expense, which is allocated to the property and casualty insurance segment, totaled $1,212, $2,539 and $1,922 for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established based on differences between the financial statement bases of assets and liabilities and the tax bases of those same assets and liabilities, using the currently enacted statutory tax rates. Deferred income tax expense is measured by the year-to-year change in the net deferred tax asset or liability, except for certain changes in deferred tax amounts that affect stockholders’ equity and do not impact federal income tax expense.
We did not recognize any liability for unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2013, or 2012 or at any time during 2013, 2012, and 2011. In addition, we have not accrued for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. However, if interest and penalties would need to be accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits, such amounts would be recognized as a component of federal income tax expense.
We file a consolidated federal income tax return. We also file income tax returns in various state jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to federal or state income tax examination for years before 2009. The Internal Revenue Service is conducting a routine examination of our income tax return for the 2011 tax year.
Stock-Based Compensation
We currently have two equity compensation plans. One plan allows us to grant restricted and unrestricted stock, stock appreciation rights, incentive stock options, and non-qualified stock options to employees. The other plan allows us to grant restricted and non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors.
We utilize the Black-Scholes option pricing method to establish the fair value of non-qualified stock options granted under our equity compensation plans. Our determination of the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using this option-pricing model is affected by our stock price, as well as assumptions regarding a number of complex and subjective variables, which include the expected volatility in our stock price, the expected term of the award, the expected dividends to be paid over the term of the award and the expected risk-free interest rate. Any changes in these assumptions may materially affect the estimated fair value of the award. For our restricted and unrestricted stock awards, we utilize the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant to establish the fair value of the award. Refer to Note 9 “Stock-Based Compensation” for further discussion.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income includes all changes in stockholders’ equity during a period except those resulting from investments by and dividends to stockholders.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Adopted Accounting Standards in 2013
Comprehensive Income
In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance that requires significant items that are reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) to net income in their entirety in the same reporting period, to be reported to show the effect of the reclassifications on the respective line items of the statement where net income is presented. These reclassifications can be presented either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes to the financial statements. For items that are not reclassified to net income in their entirety in the same reporting period a cross reference to other disclosures currently required under GAAP is required in the notes to the financial statements. The new guidance also requires companies to report changes in the accumulated balances of each component of AOCI. This new guidance was effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The Company adopted the new guidance effective January 1, 2013. The adoption of the new guidance affects presentation only and therefore had no impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
Pending Adoption of Accounting Standards
In July 2013, the FASB issued guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. This new guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company currently does not have any liability for unrecognized tax benefits. Therefore, the adoption of the new guidance is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS	'
	SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
	Fair Value of Investments
	The table that follows is a reconciliation of the amortized cost (cost for equity securities) to fair value of investments in held-to-maturity and available-for-sale fixed maturity and equity securities as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.
	December 31, 2013
	Type of Investment	Cost or Amortized Cost				Gross Unrealized Appreciation				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair Value
	HELD-TO-MATURITY
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	$	250			$	4			$	—			$	254
	Corporate bonds - financial services	200				—				—				200
	Mortgage-backed securities	206				9				—				215
	Total Held-to-Maturity Fixed Maturities	$	656			$	13			$	—			$	669
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	33,612			$	423			$	140			$	33,895
	U.S. government agency	287,988				258				18,663				269,583
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	690,461				34,151				10,705				713,907
	Foreign bonds	167,390				5,863				397				172,856
	Public utilities	213,479				6,873				1,776				218,576
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	157,620				4,398				1,008				161,010
	Industrials	234,221				5,626				2,819				237,028
	Consumer goods and services	165,565				3,770				1,421				167,914
	Health care	91,008				3,138				1,200				92,946
	Technology, media and telecommunications	121,746				2,541				3,321				120,966
	Financial services	234,739				7,735				723				241,751
	Mortgage-backed securities	22,034				323				291				22,066
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	309,975				1,707				16,919				294,763
	Asset-backed securities	3,719				276				—				3,995
	Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,733,557			$	77,082			$	59,383			$	2,751,256
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	$	7,231			$	9,068			$	27			$	16,272
	Energy	5,094				9,269				—				14,363
	Industrials	13,308				32,823				32				46,099
	Consumer goods and services	10,363				10,895				—				21,258
	Health care	7,920				17,078				—				24,998
	Technology, media and telecommunications	6,204				7,183				83				13,304
	Financial services	15,853				72,537				128				88,262
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	4,984				5				177				4,812
	Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	70,957			$	158,858			$	447			$	229,368
	Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,804,514			$	235,940			$	59,830			$	2,980,624
	December 31, 2012
	Type of Investment	Cost or Amortized Cost				Gross Unrealized Appreciation				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair Value
	HELD-TO-MATURITY
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	$	1,185			$	11			$	—			$	1,196
	Corporate bonds - financial services	200				—				—				200
	Mortgage-backed securities	256				15				—				271
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	14				—				—				14
	Total Held-to-Maturity Fixed Maturities	$	1,655			$	26			$	—			$	1,681
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	37,887			$	939			$	5			$	38,821
	U.S. government agency	45,566				429				67				45,928
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	739,752				55,572				819				794,505
	Foreign bonds	207,359				11,863				62				219,160
	Public utilities	232,550				15,208				32				247,726
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	169,973				9,758				—				179,731
Industrials	280,185				13,690				212				293,663
Consumer goods and services	193,313				9,813				151				202,975
Health care	115,654				7,111				80				122,685
Technology, media and telecommunications	123,660				6,909				198				130,371
Financial services	271,061				13,858				1,059				283,860
Mortgage-backed securities	27,940				888				21				28,807
Collateralized mortgage obligations	208,042				7,702				1,160				214,584
Asset-backed securities	4,480				406				—				4,886
Redeemable preferred stocks	378				—				2				376
Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,657,800			$	154,146			$	3,868			$	2,808,078
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	$	7,231			$	7,268			$	83			$	14,416
Energy	5,094				6,903				—				11,997
Industrials	13,031				19,827				174				32,684
Consumer goods and services	10,394				8,535				50				18,879
Health care	7,920				10,286				125				18,081
Technology, media and telecommunications	5,367				5,155				95				10,427
Financial services	15,701				52,936				145				68,492
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	2,154				25				28				2,151
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	66,892			$	110,935			$	700			$	177,127
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,724,692			$	265,081			$	4,568			$	2,985,205
Maturities
The amortized cost and fair value of held-to-maturity, available-for-sale and trading fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2013, by contractual maturity, are shown in the following table. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations may be subject to prepayment risk and are therefore not categorized by contractual maturity.
	Held-To-Maturity								Available-For-Sale								Trading
December 31, 2013	Amortized Cost				Fair Value				Amortized Cost				Fair Value				Amortized Cost				Fair Value
Due in one year or less	$	135			$	136			$	231,060			$	234,922			$	1,350			$	1,359
Due after one year through five years	315				318				950,084				996,862				3,762				5,147
Due after five years through 10 years	—				—				848,931				855,156				—				—
Due after 10 years	—				—				367,754				343,492				2,937				3,434
Asset-backed securities	—				—				3,719				3,995				—				—
Mortgage-backed securities	206				215				22,034				22,066				—				—
Collateralized mortgage obligations	—				—				309,975				294,763				—				—
	$	656			$	669			$	2,733,557			$	2,751,256			$	8,049			$	9,940
Net Realized Investment Gains and Losses
Net realized gains (losses) on disposition of investments are computed using the specific identification method and are included in the computation of net income. A summary of net realized investment gains (losses) for 2013, 2012 and 2011, is as follows:
	2013				2012				2011
Net realized investment gains (losses)
Fixed maturities:
Held-to-maturity	$	1			$	12			$	8
Available-for-sale	3,211				3,408				4,776
Trading securities
Change in fair value	1,183				683				(539		)
Sales	788				406				(326		)
Equity securities:
Available-for-sale	3,739				698				2,988
Trading securities
Change in fair value	(126		)		250				(4		)
Sales	38				—				—
Other long-term investments	—				—				(68		)
Other-than-temporary-impairment charges:
Fixed maturities	(139		)		—				(395		)
Equity securities	—				(4		)		—
Total net realized investment gains	$	8,695			$	5,453			$	6,440
The proceeds and gross realized gains (losses) on the sale of available-for-sale securities for 2013, 2012 and 2011, were as follows:
	2013				2012				2011
Proceeds from sales	$	23,007			$	20,324			$	39,496
Gross realized gains	451				513				1,144
Gross realized losses	—				(37		)		(1,562		)
There were no sales of held-to-maturity securities in 2013, 2012 and 2011.
Our investment portfolio includes trading securities with embedded derivatives. These securities are primarily convertible securities which are recorded at fair value. Income or loss, including the change in the fair value of these trading securities, is recognized currently in earnings as a component of net realized investment gains and losses. Our portfolio of trading securities had a fair value of $12,427 and $15,371 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Net Investment Income
Net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, is comprised of the following:
Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011
Investment income
Interest on fixed maturities	$	101,950			$	108,517			$	109,467
Dividends on equity securities	5,806				5,354				4,628
Income (loss) on other long-term investments
Investment income	1,194				232				224
Change in value (1)	7,030				2,562				(137		)
Interest on mortgage loans	266				279				285
Interest on short-term investments	6				10				4
Interest on cash and cash equivalents	239				290				913
Other	1,632				825				969
Total investment income	$	118,123			$	118,069			$	116,353
Less investment expenses	5,324				6,164				6,859
Net investment income	$	112,799			$	111,905			$	109,494
-1	Represents the change in value of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
Pursuant to an agreement with one of our limited liability partnership investments, we are contractually committed through December 31, 2017 to make capital contributions upon request of the partnership. Our remaining potential contractual obligation was $1,050 at December 31, 2013.
Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation
A summary of changes in net unrealized investment appreciation for 2013, 2012 and 2011, is as follows:
	2013				2012				2011
Change in net unrealized investment appreciation
Available-for-sale fixed maturities	$	(132,579	)		$	15,816			$	34,699
Equity securities	48,176				19,339				(4,675		)
Deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102				(4,821		)		3,402
Income tax effect	14,806				(10,614		)		(11,699		)
Total change in net unrealized investment appreciation, net of tax	$	(27,495	)		$	19,720			$	21,727
We continually monitor the difference between our cost basis and the estimated fair value of our investments. Our accounting policy for impairment recognition requires OTTI charges to be recorded when we determine that it is more likely than not that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the fixed maturity security or that the anticipated recovery in fair value of the equity security will not occur in a reasonable amount of time. Impairment charges on investments are recorded based on the fair value of the investments at the measurement date. Factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary include: the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; our intention to hold the investment; and the likelihood that we will be required to sell the investment.
The tables on the following pages summarize our fixed maturity and equity securities that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2013 and 2012. The securities are presented by the length of time they have been continuously in an unrealized loss position. It is possible that we could recognize OTTI charges in future periods on securities held at December 31, 2013, if future events or information cause us to determine that a decline in fair value is other-than-temporary.
We have evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuers of our fixed maturity securities in relation to the severity and duration of the unrealized loss which resulted in the recognition of a $139 and $395 credit loss OTTI in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2011, respectively. There were no OTTI losses on fixed maturity securities recognized in 2012. We believe the unrealized depreciation in value of other securities in our fixed maturity portfolio is primarily attributable to changes in market interest rates and not the credit quality of the issuer. We have no intent to sell and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell these securities until the fair value recovers to at least equal our cost basis or the securities mature.
We have evaluated the near-term prospects of the issuers of our equity securities in relation to the severity and duration of the unrealized loss which resulted in the recognition of a $4 OTTI in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended December 31, 2012. There were no OTTI losses on equity securities recognized in 2013 or 2011. Our largest unrealized loss greater than 12 months on an individual equity security at December 31, 2013 was $58. We have no intention to sell any of these securities prior to a recovery in value, but will continue to monitor the fair value reported for these securities as part of our overall process to evaluate investments for OTTI recognition.
December 31, 2013	Less than 12 months											12 months or longer											Total
Type of Investment	Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized				Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair		Gross Unrealized Depreciation
	of Issues			Value				Depreciation				of Issues			Value								Value
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities
Bonds
U.S. Treasury	10			$	9,196			$	140			—			$	—			$	—			$	9,196	$	140
U.S. government agency	101			256,203				18,019				2			4,356				644				260,559		18,663
States, municipalities and political subdivisions	136			97,950				7,423				29			29,670				3,282				127,620		10,705
Foreign bonds	10			20,832				397				—			—				—				20,832		397
Public utilities	31			61,582				1,776				—			—				—				61,582		1,776
Corporate bonds
Energy	9			23,735				1,008				—			—				—				23,735		1,008
Industrials	34			77,788				2,819				—			—				—				77,788		2,819
Consumer goods and services	31			58,833				1,276				6			3,218				145				62,051		1,421
Health care	10			25,888				942				2			4,427				258				30,315		1,200
Technology, media and telecommunications	18			58,105				2,147				2			7,468				1,174				65,573		3,321
Financial services	7			15,191				720				1			1,525				3				16,716		723
Mortgage-backed securities	16			4,476				177				6			3,113				114				7,589		291
Collateralized mortgage obligations	111			208,855				11,062				23			55,184				5,857				264,039		16,919
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities	524			$	918,634			$	47,906			71			$	108,961			$	11,477			$	1,027,595	$	59,383
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	—			$	—			$	—			3			$	281			$	27			$	281	$	27
Industrials	1			1				1				2			81				31				82		32
Technology, media and telecommunications	—			—				—				6			206				83				206		83
Financial services	—			—				—				4			215				128				215		128
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	3			3,493				116				2			1,170				61				4,663		177
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	4			$	3,494			$	117			17			$	1,953			$	330			$	5,447	$	447
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	528			$	922,128			$	48,023			88			$	110,914			$	11,807			$	1,033,042	$	59,830
December 31, 2012	Less than 12 months											12 months or longer											Total
Type of Investment	Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair		Gross Unrealized Depreciation
	of Issues			Value								of Issues			Value								Value
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities
Bonds
U.S. Treasury	2			$	1,724			$	5			—			$	—			$	—			$	1,724	$	5
U.S. government agency	5			17,654				67				—			—				—				17,654		67
States, municipalities and political subdivisions	31			41,775				819				—			—				—				41,775		819
Foreign bonds	1			3,323				48				1			558				14				3,881		62
Public utilities	2			3,155				32				—			—				—				3,155		32
Corporate bonds
Industrials	4			12,194				109				1			2,897				103				15,091		212
Consumer goods and services	—			—				—				7			4,606				151				4,606		151
Health care	3			7,416				80				—			—				—				7,416		80
Technology, media and telecommunications	5			13,402				198				—			—				—				13,402		198
Financial services	2			1,005				1				24			24,693				1,058				25,698		1,059
Mortgage-backed securities	7			4,472				21				—			—				—				4,472		21
Collateralized mortgage obligations	27			74,702				1,004				1			29				156				74,731		1,160
Redeemable preferred stocks	2			376				2				—			—				—				376		2
Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities	91			$	181,198			$	2,386			34			$	32,783			$	1,482			$	213,981	$	3,868
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	3			$	225			$	83			—			$	—			$	—			$	225	$	83
Industrials	4			482				52				9			621				122				1,103		174
Consumer goods and services	2			280				19				4			372				31				652		50
Health care	1			31				2				3			896				123				927		125
Technology, media and telecommunications	5			241				7				7			581				88				822		95
Financial services	1			47				19				7			1,109				126				1,156		145
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	—			—				—				2			1,203				28				1,203		28
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	16			$	1,306			$	182			32			$	4,782			$	518			$	6,088	$	700
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	107			$	182,504			$	2,568			66			$	37,565			$	2,000			$	220,069	$	4,568

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_INSTRU

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	'
	FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	We estimate the fair value of our financial instruments based on relevant market information or by discounting estimated future cash flows at estimated current market discount rates appropriate to the specific asset or liability.
	In most cases, we use quoted market prices to determine the fair value of fixed maturities, equity securities, trading securities and short-term investments. When quoted market prices do not exist, we base estimates of fair values on pricing or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement of the financial instrument. Such inputs may reflect management’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the financial instrument.
	The fair value of our mortgage loans is determined by modeling performed by us based on the stated principal and coupon payments provided for in the loan agreement. These cash flows are then discounted using an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate to determine the security’s fair value, which is a Level 3 fair value measurement.
	The fair value of our policy loans is equivalent to carrying value, which is a reasonable estimate of fair value. We do not make policy loans for amounts in excess of the cash surrender value of the related policy. In all instances, the policy loans are fully collateralized by the related liability for future policy benefits for traditional insurance policies or by the policyholders’ account balance for non-traditional policies.
	Our other long-term investments consist primarily of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting. The values of the partnerships are determined by the fund managers primarily based on the fair value of the underlying investments held. In management’s opinion, these values represent fair value.
	For cash and cash equivalents and accrued investment income, carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments.
	Policy reserves are developed and recorded for deferred annuities, which is an interest-sensitive product, and income annuities. The fair value of the reserve liability for these annuity products is based upon an estimate of the discounted pre-tax cash flows that are forecast for the underlying business, which is a Level 3 fair value measurement. We base the discount rate on the current U.S. Treasury spot yield curve, which is then risk-adjusted for nonperformance risk and, for interest-sensitive business, market risk factors. The risk-adjusted discount rate is developed using interest rates that are available in the market and representative of the risks applicable to the underlying business.
	A summary of the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments at December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		December 31, 2013						December 31, 2012
		Fair Value			Carrying Value			Fair Value			Carrying Value
	Assets
	Investments
	Fixed maturities:
	Held-to-maturity securities	$	669		$	656		$	1,681		$	1,655
	Available-for-sale securities	2,751,256			2,751,256			2,808,078			2,808,078
	Trading securities	9,940			9,940			13,353			13,353
	Equity securities:
	Available-for-sale securities	229,368			229,368			177,127			177,127
	Trading securities	2,487			2,487			2,018			2,018
	Mortgage loans	4,724			4,423			5,037			4,633
	Policy loans	6,261			6,261			6,671			6,671
	Other long-term investments	44,946			44,946			30,028			30,028
	Short-term investments	800			800			800			800
	Cash and cash equivalents	92,193			92,193			107,466			107,466
	Accrued investment income	27,923			27,923			30,375			30,375
	Liabilities
	Policy reserves
	Annuity (accumulations) (1)	$	941,636		$	925,832		$	1,043,866		$	983,579
	Annuity (benefit payments)	140,276			94,805			139,213			93,701
	(1) Annuity accumulations represent deferred annuity contracts that are currently earning interest.
	Current accounting guidance on fair value measurements includes the application of a fair value hierarchy that requires us to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. Our financial instruments that are recorded at fair value are categorized into a three-level hierarchy, which is based upon the priority of the inputs to the valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (i.e., Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (i.e., Level 3). If the inputs used to measure fair value fall within different levels of the hierarchy, the category level is based on the lowest priority level input that is significant to the fair value measurement of the financial instrument.
	Financial instruments recorded at fair value are categorized in the fair value hierarchy as follows:
	•	Level 1: Valuations are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical financial instruments that we have the ability to access.
	•	Level 2: Valuations are based on quoted prices for similar financial instruments, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, in markets that are not active or on inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for the full term of the financial instrument.
	•	Level 3: Valuations are based on pricing or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement of the financial instrument. Such inputs may reflect management’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in pricing the financial instrument.
	Transfers between levels, if any, are recorded as of the beginning of the reporting period.
	To determine the fair value of the majority of our investments, we utilize prices obtained from independent, nationally recognized pricing services. We obtain one price for each security. When the pricing services cannot provide a determination of fair value for a specific security, we obtain non-binding price quotes from broker-dealers with whom we have had several years of experience and who have demonstrated knowledge of the subject security. We request and utilize one broker quote per security.
	We validate the prices obtained from independent pricing services and brokers prior to their use for reporting purposes by evaluating their reasonableness on a monthly basis. Our validation process includes a review for unusual fluctuations. In our opinion, the pricing obtained at December 31, 2013 and 2012 was reasonable.
	In order to determine the proper classification in the fair value hierarchy for each security where the price is obtained from an independent pricing service, we obtain and evaluate the vendors’ pricing procedures and inputs used to price the security, which include unadjusted quoted market prices for identical securities, such as a New York Stock Exchange closing price, and quoted prices for identical securities in markets that are not active. For fixed maturity securities, an evaluation of interest rates and yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, volatility, prepayment speeds, credit risks and default rates may also be performed. We have determined that these processes and inputs result in fair values and classifications consistent with the applicable accounting guidance on fair value measurements.
	We review our fair value hierarchy categorizations on a quarterly basis at which time the classification of certain financial instruments may change if the input observations have changed.
	The following tables present the categorization for our financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
					Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	33,895		$	—		$	33,895		$	—
	U.S. government agency	269,583			—			269,583			—
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	713,907			—			713,209			698
	Foreign bonds	172,856			—			172,856			—
	Public utilities	218,576			—			218,576			—
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	161,010			—			161,010			—
	Industrials	237,028			—			237,028			—
	Consumer goods and services	167,914			—			166,460			1,454
	Health care	92,946			—			92,946			—
	Technology, media and telecommunications	120,966			—			120,966			—
	Financial services	241,751			—			229,725			12,026
	Mortgage-backed securities	22,066			—			22,066			—
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	294,763			—			294,763			—
	Asset-backed securities	3,995			—			1,966			2,029
	Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,751,256		$	—		$	2,735,049		$	16,207
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	$	16,272		$	16,272		$	—		$	—
Energy	14,363			14,363			—			—
Industrials	46,099			46,083			16			—
Consumer goods and services	21,258			21,258			—			—
Health care	24,998			24,998			—			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	13,304			13,304			—			—
Financial services	88,262			84,419			62			3,781
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	4,812			1,714			3,098			—
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	229,368		$	222,411		$	3,176		$	3,781
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,980,624		$	222,411		$	2,738,225		$	19,988
TRADING
Bonds
Foreign bonds	$	1,253		$	—		$	1,253		$	—
Corporate bonds
Industrials	1,122			—			1,122			—
Consumer goods and services	106			—			106			—
Health care	1,154			—			1,154			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	2,054			—			2,054			—
Financial services	1,866			—			1,866			—
Redeemable preferred stocks	2,385			2,385			—			—
Equity securities
Energy	563			563			—			—
Consumer goods and services	39			39			—			—
Health care	332			332			—			—
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	1,553			1,553			—			—
Total Trading Securities	$	12,427		$	4,872		$	7,555		$	—
Short-Term Investments	$	800		$	800		$	—		$	—
Money Market Accounts	$	37,811		$	37,811		$	—		$	—
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	$	3,031,662		$	265,894		$	2,745,780		$	19,988
				Fair Value Measurements
Description	December 31, 2012			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
Fixed maturities
Bonds
U.S. Treasury	$	38,821		$	—		$	38,821		$	—
U.S. government agency	45,928			—			45,928			—
States, municipalities and political subdivisions	794,505			—			793,755			750
Foreign bonds	219,160			—			218,602			558
Public utilities	247,726			—			247,726			—
Corporate bonds
Energy	179,731			—			179,731			—
Industrials	293,663			—			290,766			2,897
Consumer goods and services	202,975			—			201,633			1,342
Health care	122,685			—			122,685			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	130,371			—			130,371			—
Financial services	283,860			—			271,991			11,869
Mortgage-backed securities	28,807			—			28,807			—
Collateralized mortgage obligations	214,584			—			214,584			—
Asset-backed securities	4,886			—			2,398			2,488
Redeemable preferred stocks	376			376			—			—
Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,808,078		$	376		$	2,787,798		$	19,904
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	$	14,416		$	14,416		$	—		$	—
Energy	11,997			11,997			—			—
Industrials	32,684			32,658			26			—
Consumer goods and services	18,879			18,879			—			—
Health care	18,081			18,081			—			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	10,427			10,427			—			—
Financial services	68,492			64,800			56			3,636
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	2,151			1,906			245			—
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	177,127		$	173,164		$	327		$	3,636
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,985,205		$	173,540		$	2,788,125		$	23,540
TRADING
Bonds
Foreign bonds	$	1,379		$	—		$	1,379		$	—
Corporate bonds
Industrials	1,299			—			1,299			—
Consumer goods and services	1,532			—			1,532			—
Health care	1,824			—			1,824			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	2,250			—			2,250			—
Financial services	1,486			—			1,486			—
Redeemable preferred stocks	3,583			3,583			—			—
Equity securities - health care	303			303			—			—
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	1,715			1,715			—			—
Total Trading Securities	$	15,371		$	5,601		$	9,770		$	—
Short-Term Investments	$	800		$	800		$	—		$	—
Money Market Accounts	$	45,613		$	45,613		$	—		$	—
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	$	3,046,989		$	225,554		$	2,797,895		$	23,540
The fair value of securities that are categorized as Level 1 is based on quoted market prices that are readily and regularly available.
The fair value of securities that are categorized as Level 2 is determined by management after reviewing market prices obtained from independent pricing services and brokers. Such estimated fair values do not necessarily represent the values for which these securities could have been sold at the reporting date. Our independent pricing services and brokers obtain prices from reputable pricing vendors in the marketplace. They continually monitor and review the external pricing sources, while actively participating to resolve any pricing issues that may arise.
For the year ended December 31, 2013, the change in our available-for-sale securities categorized as Level 1 and Level 2 is the result of investment purchases that were made using funds held in our money market accounts, disposals and the change in unrealized gains on both fixed maturities and equity securities. There were no transfers of securities between Level 1 and Level 2 during the period.
Securities categorized as Level 3 include holdings in certain private placement fixed maturity and equity securities and certain other securities that were determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired in a prior period and for which an active market does not currently exist.
The fair value of our Level 3 private placement securities is determined by management relying on pricing received from our independent pricing services and brokers consistent with the process to estimate fair value for Level 2 securities. If pricing cannot be obtained from these sources, which occurs on a limited basis, management will perform a cash flow analysis, using an appropriate risk-adjusted discount rate, on the underlying security to estimate fair value.
The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for 2013:
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions			Foreign bonds			Corporate bonds			Asset-backed securities			Equities			Total
Balance at January 1, 2013	$	750		$	558		$	16,108		$	2,488		$	3,636		$	23,540
Realized gains (1)	—			35			—			—			—			35
Unrealized gains (losses) (1)	83			14			1,277			(53		)	(28		)	1,293
Purchases	—			—			105			—			173			278
Disposals	(135		)	(607		)	(4,010		)	(406		)	—			(5,158		)
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	698		$	—		$	13,480		$	2,029		$	3,781		$	19,988
(1) Realized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of earnings whereas unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income.
The fixed maturities reported as disposals relate to the receipt of principal on scheduled calls.
The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for 2012:
(In Thousands)	States, municipalities and political subdivisions			Foreign bonds			Corporate bonds			Asset-backed securities			Equities			Total
Balance at January 1, 2012	$	880		$	836		$	20,285		$	315		$	3,526		$	25,842
Realized gains (1)	—			—			646			—			—			646
Unrealized gains (losses) (1)	—			7			(352		)	(13		)	(23		)	(381		)
Purchases	—			—			5			—			179			184
Disposals	(130		)	(285		)	(4,476		)	(121		)	(50		)	(5,062		)
Transfers in	—			—			—			2,307			52			2,359
Transfers out	—			—			—			—			(48		)	(48		)
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	750		$	558		$	16,108		$	2,488		$	3,636		$	23,540
(1) Realized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of earnings whereas unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income.
The fixed maturities reported as disposals relate to the receipt of principal on calls or sinking fund bonds, in accordance with the indentures. The reported transfers are the result of stale pricing due to a lack of current trading activity for the underlying securities.

REINSURANCE

REINSURANCE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]	'
REINSURANCE	'
	REINSURANCE
	Property and Casualty Insurance Segment
	Ceded and Assumed Reinsurance
	Reinsurance is a contract by which one insurer, called the reinsurer, agrees to cover, under certain defined circumstances, a portion of the losses incurred by a primary insurer if a claim is made under a policy issued by the primary insurer. Our property and casualty insurance companies follow the industry practice of reinsuring a portion of their exposure by ceding to reinsurers a portion of the premium received and a portion of the risk under the policies written. We purchase reinsurance to reduce the net liability on individual risks to predetermined limits and to protect us against catastrophic losses from a single catastrophe, such as a hurricane or tornado. We do not engage in any reinsurance transactions classified as finite risk reinsurance.
	We account for premiums, written and earned, and losses incurred net of reinsurance ceded. The ceding of insurance does not legally discharge us from primary liability under our policies, and we must pay the loss if the reinsurer fails to meet its obligation. We periodically monitor the financial condition of our reinsurers to confirm that they are financially stable. We believe that all of our reinsurers are in an acceptable financial condition and there were no reinsurance balances at December 31, 2013, for which collection is at risk that would result in a material impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements. The amount of reinsurance recoverable on paid losses totaled $6,090 and $4,669 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	We also assume both property and casualty insurance from other insurance or reinsurance companies. Most of the business we have assumed is property insurance, with an emphasis on catastrophe coverage.
	Premiums and loss and loss settlement expenses related to our ceded and assumed business are as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012		2011
	Ceded Business
	Ceded premiums written	$	50,711		$	44,240	$	43,921
	Ceded premiums earned	50,514			47,467		45,604
	Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded(1)	(8,552		)	5,525		39,335
	Assumed Business
	Assumed premiums written	$	18,938		$	17,181	$	14,954
	Assumed premiums earned	18,485			16,889		14,869
	Loss and loss settlement expenses assumed	8,268			16,873		24,151
	(1) In 2013, a reduction in our direct IBNR reserves caused a corresponding reduction in ceded IBNR reserves.  This factor, coupled with a lack of significant large losses exceeding our reinsurance retentions resulted in negative loss and loss settlement expenses ceded for the year.
	In 2013, we renewed our participation in all but one of our assumed programs and added two new programs to our portfolio. Loss and loss settlement expenses assumed decreased in 2013 as compared to 2012 primarily due to a decrease in catastrophe losses. We added two new programs to replace the lost premium from the program not renewed and to take advantage of areas where we had exposure capacity.  One of the new programs has worldwide exposure and the other has exposure in the United Kingdom and Japan.
	In 2012, we renewed our participation in all of our assumed programs. We reduced our participation in programs with heavier Northeast U.S. exposure in response to the exposure added in this region from the Mercer Insurance Group acquisition. Loss and loss settlement expenses assumed were less than 2011, but were still elevated from historic levels due to several natural disasters, primarily the Thailand floods and Super Storm Sandy.
	In 2011, we renewed our participation in all of our assumed programs, while increasing the participation level on one contract, that generated the growth of our assumed premiums written and earned. Loss and loss settlement expenses were higher than historical levels due to several natural disasters, primarily in New Zealand and Japan, that impacted our assumed program.
	Refer to Note 5 “Reserves for Loss and Loss Settlement Expenses” for an analysis of changes in our overall property and casualty insurance reserves.
	Reinsurance Programs and Retentions
	We have several programs that provide reinsurance coverage. This reinsurance coverage limits the risk of loss that we retain by reinsuring direct risks in excess of our retention limits. The following table provides a summary of our primary reinsurance programs. Retention amounts reflect the accumulated retentions and co-participation of all layers within a program. In 2012, we added a $3,000 aggregate annual deductible to our core program multi-line (casualty excess and property excess).
		2013, 2012 & 2011 Reinsurance Programs
	Type of Reinsurance	Stated Retention			Limits		Coverage
	Casualty excess of loss	$	2,000		$	40,000	100	%	of	$	38,000
	Property excess of loss	2,000			15,000		100	%	of	$	13,000
	Surety excess of loss	1,500			28,000		91	%	of	$	26,500
	Property catastrophe, excess	20,000			200,000		95	%	of	$	180,000
	Boiler and machinery	N/A			50,000		100	%	of	$	50,000
	The following table provides a summary of Mercer Insurance Group’s primary reinsurance programs for 2011:
		2011 Reinsurance Programs
	Type of Reinsurance	Stated Retention			Limits		Coverage
	Casualty excess of loss (1)	$	1,000		$	5,000	100	%	of	$	4,000
	Property excess of loss (1)	1,000			10,000		100	%	of	$	9,000
	Umbrella excess of loss(1)	1,000			11,000		75	%	of first	$	1,000
							100	%	of remaining	$	9,000
	Surety excess of loss	500			4,500		90	%	of	$	4,000
									less	$500 deductible
	Property catastrophe, excess(2)	5,000			55,000		100	%	of	$	50,000
	(1) On August 1, 2011, Mercer Insurance Group’s reinsurance retention and limits were changed to match those of the Company.
	(2) On January 1, 2012, Mercer Insurance Group’s catastrophe reinsurance programs were changed to match those of the Company.
	If we incur catastrophe losses and loss settlement expenses that exceed the coverage limits of our reinsurance program, our property catastrophe program provides one guaranteed reinstatement. In such an instance, we are required to pay the reinsurers a reinstatement premium equal to the full amount of the original premium, which will reinstate the full amount of reinsurance available under the property catastrophe program.
	Life Insurance Segment
	Ceded and Assumed Reinsurance
	United Life purchases reinsurance to limit the dollar amount of any one risk of loss. Our retention on standard individual life cases is $300. Our accidental death benefit rider on an individual policy is reinsured at 100 percent, up to a maximum benefit of $250. Our group coverage, both life and accidental death and dismemberment, is reinsured at 50.0 percent. Catastrophe excess reinsurance coverage applies when three or more insureds die in a catastrophic accident. For catastrophe excess claims, we retain the first $1,000 of ultimate net loss and the reinsurer agrees to indemnify us for the excess up to a maximum of $5,000. We supplement this coverage when appropriate with “known concentration” coverage. Known concentration coverage is typically tied to a specific event and time period, with a threshold of a minimum number of lives involved in the event, minimum event deductible (stated retention limit) and a maximum payout.
	Premiums and losses and loss settlement expenses related to our ceded business is as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012		2011
	Ceded Business
	Ceded insurance in-force	$	1,112,688		$	1,083,410	$	974,556
	Ceded premiums earned	2,792			2,621		2,318
	Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded	1,971			2,435		3,786
	The ceding of insurance does not legally discharge United Life from primary liability under its policies. United Life must pay the loss if the reinsurer fails to meet its obligations. We periodically monitor the financial condition of our reinsurers to confirm that they are financially stable. We believe that all of our reinsurers are in an acceptable financial condition. Approximately 99.0 percent of ceded life insurance in force as of December 31, 2013, has been ceded to five reinsurers.

RESERVES_FOR_LOSS_AND_LOSS_SET

RESERVES FOR LOSS AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Insurance Loss Reserves [Abstract]	'
RESERVES FOR LOSS AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES	'
	RESERVES FOR LOSS AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES
	Because property and casualty insurance reserves are estimates of the unpaid portions of incurred losses that have been reported to us, as well as losses that have been incurred but not reported (“IBNR”), the establishment of appropriate reserves, including reserves for catastrophes, is an inherently uncertain and complex process. The ultimate cost of losses and related loss settlement expenses may vary materially from recorded amounts, which are based on management’s best estimates. We regularly update our reserve estimates as new information becomes available and as events unfold that may affect the resolution of unsettled claims. Changes in prior year reserve estimates, which may be material, are reported as a component of losses and loss settlement expenses incurred in the period such changes are determined.
	The following table provides an analysis of changes in our property and casualty loss and loss settlement expense reserves for 2013, 2012 and 2011 (net of reinsurance amounts):
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	971,911		$	945,051		$	603,090
	at beginning of year
	Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	(103,870		)	(120,359		)	(39,000		)
	Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	868,041		$	824,692		$	564,090
	at beginning of year
	Reserves acquired in Mercer Insurance Group acquisition, net	—			—			252,598
	Beginning balance, as adjusted	$	868,041		$	824,692		$	816,688
	Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred
	for claims occurring during
	Current year	$	494,841		$	512,564		$	468,926
	Prior years	(57,487		)	(73,427		)	(61,095		)
	Total incurred	$	437,354		$	439,137		$	407,831
	Losses and loss settlement expense payments
	for claims occurring during
	Current year	$	203,868		$	201,632		$	253,175
	Prior years	216,026			194,156			146,653
	Total paid	$	419,894		$	395,788		$	399,828
	Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	885,501		$	868,041		$	824,692
	at end of year
	Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	75,150			103,870			120,359
	Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	960,651		$	971,911		$	945,051
	at end of year
	There are a multitude of factors that can impact loss reserve development. Those factors include, but are not limited to: historical data, the potential impact of various loss development factors and trends including historical loss experience, legislative enactments, judicial decisions, legal developments in imposition of damages, experience with alternative dispute resolution, results of our medical bill review process, the potential impact of salvage and subrogation and changes and trends in general economic conditions, including the effects of inflation. All of these factors influence our estimates of required reserves and for long tail lines these factors can change over the course of the settlement of the claim. However, there is no precise method for evaluating the specific dollar impact of any individual factor on the development of reserves.
	The favorable reserve development in 2013 on prior year reserves was primarily related to our long-tail lines of commercial business including other liability, workers’ compensation and auto liability. The significant driver of the favorable reserve development in 2013 was the other liability line, primarily due to additional recognition of relatively recent changes in reserve development patterns which have shown increased redundancies in reserves for reported claims along with relatively less need for IBNR claim reserves. Also, contributing to the favorable development in 2013, only to a lesser extent than the other liability line of business, were workers’ compensation, commercial auto liability and surety lines of business
	In 2012 we experienced favorable reserve development for reserves established for claims that occurred in prior years. The majority of this favorable development is related to our long-tail lines of commercial business including other liability, workers’ compensation and auto liability.
	The significant driver of the favorable reserve development in 2012 was the other liability line. The favorable development is generally caused by changes in loss development patterns due to many of the factors cited above. Specifically, we observed a continuation of a trend, started in 2011, reducing the overall number of reported new construction defect claims and lower than expected loss emergence on known claims. In addition, in 2009 management began an initiative to control legal defense costs. As these costs are a significant component of the carried reserves for the other liability line, management believes this initiative is also contributing to the favorable reserve development trends.
	Reserves for all other lines of business, with the exception of assumed reinsurance, experienced favorable reserve development in 2012, only to a lesser extent than the other liability line. We attribute this remaining development to the factors noted above. Our assumed reinsurance line was impacted by adverse reserve development on prior year catastrophes from accident year 2011 (Japan earthquake and tsunami, Thailand flood, and Christchurch, New Zealand earthquake) and from accident year 2010 (Canterbury, New Zealand earthquake).
	In 2011, we experienced favorable reserve development for reserves established for claims that occurred in prior years. The majority of this favorable development is related to our long-tail lines of commercial business including other liability, workers’ compensation and auto liability.
	The significant driver of the favorable reserve development in 2011 was the other liability line. The favorable development is generally caused by changes in loss development patterns due to many of the factors cited above. Specifically, we have observed an overall reduction in reported new construction defect claims and less than expected loss emergence on known claims. In addition, in 2009 management began an initiative to control legal defense costs. As these costs are a significant component of the carried reserves for the other liability line, management believes this initiative is also contributing to the favorable reserve development trends.
	Our commercial automobile liability line developed favorably in 2011. The favorable reserve development is generally caused by changes in loss development patterns due to many of the factors cited above. Specifically, we have observed a lower level of latent claim development.
	Reserves for all other lines of business, with the exception of assumed reinsurance, experienced favorable reserve development in 2011, only to a lesser extent than the other liability line. We attribute this remaining development to the factors noted above. Our assumed reinsurance line was impacted by adverse reserve development on prior year catastrophes from accident year 2010 (Canterbury, New Zealand earthquake).
	Generally, we base reserves for each claim on the estimated ultimate exposure for that claim, determined from a prudently conservative point of view. We believe that it is appropriate and reasonable to establish a best estimate for reserves within a range of reasonable estimates, especially when we are reserving for claims for bodily injury, disabilities and similar claims, for which settlements and verdicts can vary widely. Our reserving philosophy may result in favorable development in future years that will decrease losses and loss settlement expenses for prior year claims in the year of adjustment. While we realize that this philosophy, coupled with what we believe to be aggressive and successful claims management and loss settlement practices, has resulted in year-to-year redundancies in reserves, our approach is better than experiencing year-to-year uncertainty as to the adequacy of our reserves. We believe our approach produces recorded reserves that are reasonably consistent as to their relative position within a range of reasonable reserves from year-to-year. However, conditions and trends that have affected the reserve development for a given year do change. Therefore, such development cannot be used to project future reserve redundancies or deficiencies.
	We are not aware of any significant contingent liabilities related to environmental issues. Because of the type of property coverage we write, we have potential exposure to environmental pollution, mold and asbestos claims. Our underwriters are aware of these exposures and use riders or endorsements to limit exposure.

STATUTORY_REPORTING_CAPITAL_RE

STATUTORY REPORTING, CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND DIVIDENDS AND RETAINED EARNINGS RESTRICTIONS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Statutory Insurance Financial Information [Abstract]	'
STATUTORY REPORTING, CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND DIVIDENDS AND RETAINED EARNINGS RESTRICTIONS	'
	STATUTORY REPORTING, CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND DIVIDENDS AND RETAINED EARNINGS RESTRICTIONS
	Statutory capital and surplus in regards to policyholders at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 and statutory net income for the years then ended are as follows:
		Statutory Capital and Surplus		Statutory Net Income
	2013
	Property and casualty (1)	$	665,772	$	84,255
	Life, accident and health	157,974		5,942
	2012
	Property and casualty (1)	$	585,986	$	34,468
	Life, accident and health	158,720		7,420
	2011
	Property and casualty (1)	$	565,843	$	10,529
	Life, accident and health	167,164		6,180
	-1	Because United Fire & Casualty Company owns United Life Insurance Company, the property and casualty statutory capital and surplus includes life, accident and health statutory capital and surplus, and therefore represents our total consolidated statutory capital and surplus.
	State insurance holding company laws and regulations generally require approval from the insurer’s domicile state insurance Commissioner for any material transaction or extraordinary dividend. For property and casualty insurers, a material transaction is defined as any sale, loan, exchange, transfer or guarantee with an affiliate where the aggregate value of the transaction exceeds 25 percent of the insurer’s policyholders’ surplus or three percent of its admitted assets (measured at December 31 of the preceding year), whichever is less. For life insurers, a material transaction with an affiliate is defined as a transaction with an aggregate value exceeding three percent of the life insurer’s admitted assets (measured at December 31 of the preceding year).
	State laws and regulations generally limit the amount of funds that an insurance company may distribute to a parent as a dividend without Commissioner approval. As a holding company with no independent operations of its own, United Fire Group, Inc. relies on dividends received from its insurance company subsidiaries in order to pay dividends to its common shareholders. Dividends payable by our insurance subsidiaries are governed by the laws in the states in which they are domiciled. In all cases, these state laws permit the payment of dividends only from earned surplus arising from business operations. For example, under Iowa law, the maximum dividend or distribution that may be paid within a 12-month period without prior approval of the Iowa Insurance Commissioner is generally restricted to the greater of 10 percent of statutory surplus as of the preceding December 31, or net income of the preceding calendar year on a statutory basis, not greater than earned statutory surplus. Other states in which our insurance company subsidiaries are domiciled may impose similar restrictions on dividends and distributions. Based on these restrictions, at December 31, 2013, our insurance company subsidiary, United Fire & Casualty is able to make a maximum of $53,702 in dividend payments without prior approval. At December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with applicable state laws and regulations. These restrictions will not have a material impact in meeting our cash obligations. In addition, United Fire Group, Inc. maintains a credit agreement, as discussed in Part II, Note 8 “Debt”, which permits us to borrow up to an aggregate principal amount of $125,000.
	We paid dividends to our common shareholders of $17,484, $15,269 and $15,507 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Payments of any future dividends and the amounts of such dividends, however, will depend upon factors such as net income, financial condition, capital requirements, and general business conditions. We will only pay dividends if declared by our Board of Directors, out of funds legally available, and subject to any other restrictions that may be applicable to us.
	In 2013, 2012 and 2011 United Fire & Casualty Company received dividends from its wholly-owned subsidiaries of $26,335, $19,750 and $11,450, respectively. In 2013 and 2012, United Fire & Casualty Company paid dividends to United Fire Group, Inc. totaling $13,175 and $26,950, respectively. These intercompany dividend payments are eliminated for reporting in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
	A majority of our custodial assets are subject to a tri-party agreement between one of our subsidiary companies, United Life Insurance Company (“United Life”), the custodian, and the Iowa Insurance Commissioner. Under this agreement, as long as United Life maintains the minimum aggregate value of securities in the account (based on its legal reserve requirements), it is free to invest, withdraw or loan these funds or pay dividends using these funds without approval from the Commissioner. Investment of these funds is subject to the same limitations on asset class and credit quality imposed by the Commissioner on all insurance company invested assets. Investment income derived from these custodied funds is available for general corporate purposes and to satisfy corporate obligations without approval from the Commissioner.
	At December 31, 2013, United Life had net admitted assets, on a statutory basis, of $1,648,019, $210,938 in excess of its legal reserve requirement. Therefore, any restriction on funds deposited by United Life with the Iowa Insurance Commissioner would not materially affect its financial position or results of operations and its cash flows are sufficient to meet its operational requirements. Under the material transaction and dividend standards described above, United Life would be able to enter into an affiliate transaction and/or pay a dividend of $5,797 without approval from the Commissioner.
	Our property and casualty and life insurance subsidiaries are required to prepare and file statutory-basis financial statements in conformity with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual, subject to any deviations prescribed or permitted by the applicable insurance commissioner and/or director. The accounting principles used to prepare these statutory-basis financial statements follow prescribed or permitted accounting practices that differ from GAAP. Prescribed statutory accounting principles include state laws, regulations and general administrative rules issued by the state of domicile, as well as a variety of publications and manuals of the NAIC. Permitted accounting practices encompass all accounting practices not prescribed, but allowed by the state of domicile. No material permitted accounting practices were used to prepare our statutory-basis financial statements during 2013, 2012 and 2011. Statutory accounting principles primarily differ from GAAP in that policy acquisition and certain sales inducement costs are charged to expense as incurred, goodwill is amortized, certain fair value adjustments related to the acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group are recorded for GAAP and not recorded for statutory accounting, life insurance reserves are established based on different actuarial assumptions and the values reported for investments, pension obligations and deferred taxes are established on a different basis.
	We are directed by the state insurance departments’ solvency regulations to calculate a required minimum level of statutory capital and surplus based on insurance risk factors. The risk-based capital results are used by the NAIC and state insurance departments to identify companies that merit regulatory attention or the initiation of regulatory action. Both United Life and United Fire & Casualty Company and its property and casualty insurance subsidiaries and affiliate had statutory capital and surplus in regards to policyholders well in excess of their required levels at December 31, 2013.

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX

FEDERAL INCOME TAX	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
FEDERAL INCOME TAX	'
	FEDERAL INCOME TAX
	Federal income tax expense (benefit) is composed of the following:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Current	$	19,146		$	6,644		$	(3,517	)
	Deferred	6,616			(782		)	(9,209		)
	Total	$	25,762		$	5,862		$	(12,726	)
	A reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) computed at the applicable federal tax rate of 35.0 percent to the amount recorded in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income is as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Computed expected income tax expense (benefit)	$	35,666		$	16,126		$	(4,451	)
	Tax-exempt municipal bond interest income	(7,732		)	(8,027		)	(7,908		)
	Nontaxable dividend income	(1,053		)	(1,004		)	(859		)
	Valuation allowance reduction	(548		)	(547		)	—
	Acquisition related expenses	—			42			860
	Other, net	(571		)	(728		)	(368		)
	Federal income tax expense (benefit)	$	25,762		$	5,862		$	(12,726	)
	The significant components of our net deferred tax liability at December 31, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Deferred tax liabilities
	Net unrealized appreciation on investment securities:
	Equity securities	$	55,402		$	38,582
	All other securities	6,201			52,563
	Deferred policy acquisition costs	47,809			32,086
	Prepaid pension cost	2,556			2,271
	Net bond discount accretion	2,069			3,896
	Depreciation	2,355			579
	Revaluation of investment basis (1)	3,595			4,345
	Identifiable intangible assets (1)	4,056			6,615
	Other	7,530			4,414
	Gross deferred tax liability	$	131,573		$	145,351
	Deferred tax assets
	Financial statement reserves in excess of income tax reserves	$	39,041		$	40,992
	Unearned premium adjustment	23,502			21,578
	Net operating loss carryforwards	2,361			3,481
	Underfunded benefit plan obligation	15,858			26,335
	Postretirement benefits other than pensions	12,342			10,240
	Other-than-temporary impairment of investments	5,222			5,715
	Contingent ceding commission accrual	3,726			4,822
	Compensation expense related to stock options	4,062			3,928
	AMT credit carryforward	476			7,713
	Other	5,429			3,828
	Gross deferred tax asset	$	112,019		$	128,632
	Valuation allowance	(2,361		)	(2,909		)
	Deferred tax asset	$	109,658		$	125,723
	Net deferred tax liability	$	21,915		$	19,628
	(1) Related to our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group.
	Due to our determination that we may not be able to fully realize the benefits of the net operating losses (“NOLs”) acquired in the purchase of American Indemnity Financial Corporation in 1999, which are only available to offset the future taxable income of our property and casualty insurance operations and are further limited as to the amount that can be utilized in any given year, we have recorded a valuation allowance against these NOLs that totaled $2,361 and $2,909, respectively, at December 31, 2013 and 2012. Based on a yearly review, we determine whether the benefit of the NOLs can be realized, and, if so, the decrease in the valuation allowance is recorded as a reduction to current federal income tax expense. If NOLs expire during the year, the decrease in the valuation allowance is offset with a corresponding decrease to the deferred income tax asset. The valuation allowance was reduced by $548 during 2013 due to the realization of $1,565 in NOLs. No portion of the NOLs expired in 2013 or will expire in 2014.
	The alternative minimum tax (“AMT”) credit carryforward of $476 has an indefinite life. We expect to realize the benefits from the AMT credit carryforward and the NOL other than as noted above.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS	'
	EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
	We offer various benefits to our employees including a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan, an employee/retiree health and dental benefit plan, a profit-sharing plan and an employee stock ownership plan.
	Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans
	We offer a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan in which all of our employees are eligible to participate after they have completed one year of service, attained 21 years of age and have met the hourly service requirements. Retirement benefits under our pension plan are based on the number of years of service and level of compensation. Our policy to fund the pension plan on a current basis to not less than the minimum amounts required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, is to assure that plan assets will be adequate to provide retirement benefits. We estimate that we will contribute approximately $6,260 to the pension plan in 2014.
	We also offer a health and dental benefit plan to all of our eligible employees and retirees that consists of two programs: (1) the self-funded employee health and dental benefit plan and (2) the self-funded retiree health and dental benefit plan (the “postretirement benefit plan”). The postretirement benefit plan provides health and dental benefits to our retirees (and covered dependents) who have met the service and participation requirements stipulated by the postretirement benefit plan. The third party administrators for the postretirement benefit plan are responsible for making medical and dental care benefit payments. Participants are required to submit claims for reimbursement or payment to the claims administrator within twelve months after the end of the calendar year in which the charges were incurred. An unfunded benefit obligation is reported for the postretirement benefit plan in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Investment Policies and Strategies
	Our investment policy and objective for the pension plan is to generate long-term capital growth and income, by way of a diversified investment portfolio along with appropriate employer contributions, which will allow us to provide for the pension plan’s benefit obligation.
	The investments held by the pension plan at December 31, 2013, include the following asset categories:
	•	Fixed income securities, which may include bonds, and convertible securities;
	•	Equity securities, which may include various types of stock, such as large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and international stocks;
	•	Pooled separate accounts includes two separate funds, a bond and mortgage separate account and a real estate separate account;
	•	An arbitrage fund, which is a fund that takes advantage of price discrepancies, primarily equity securities, for the same asset in different markets;
	•	A group annuity contract that is administered by United Life, a subsidiary of United Fire; and
	•	Cash and cash equivalents, which include money market funds.
	We have an internal investment/retirement committee, which includes our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer, and Executive Vice President, all of whom receive monthly information on the value of the pension plan assets and their performance. Quarterly, the committee meets to review and discuss the performance of the pension plan assets as well as the allocation of investments within the pension plan.
	As of December 31, 2013, we had seven external investment managers that are allowed to exercise investment discretion, subject to limitations, if any, established by the investment/retirement committee. We utilize multiple investment managers in order to maximize the pension plan’s investment return while mitigating risk. None of our investment managers uses leverage in managing the pension plan. Annually, the investment/retirement committee meets with each investment manager to review the investment manager’s goals, objectives and the performance of the assets they manage. The decision to establish or terminate a relationship with an investment manager is at the discretion of our investment/retirement committee.
	We consider historical experience for comparable investments and the target allocations we have established for the various asset categories of the pension plan to determine the expected long-term rate of return, which is an assumption as to the average rate of earnings expected on the pension plan funds invested, or to be invested, by the pension plan, to provide for the settlement of benefits included in the projected pension benefit obligation. Investment securities, in general, are exposed to various risks, such as fluctuating interest rates, credit standing of the issuer of the security and overall market volatility. Annually, we perform an analysis of expected long-term rates of return based on the composition and allocation of our pension plan assets and recent economic conditions.
	The following is a summary of the pension plan’s actual and target asset allocations at December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category:
	Pension Plan Assets															Target
		2013				% of Total			2012				% of Total			Allocation
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,489			4.9	%		$	4,830			6.4	%		0	%	-	25	%
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,381				1.5			1,113				1.5			0	%	-	20	%
	Equity securities	39,481				42.8			41,091				54.6			50	%	-	70	%
	Pooled separate accounts
	Bond and mortgage separate account fund	5,657				6.1			—				—			0	%		40	%
	U.S. property separate account fund	8,763				9.5			—				—			0	%		25	%
	Arbitrage fund	5,516				6			5,363				7.1			0	%	-	15	%
	United Life annuity	8,101				8.8			7,900				10.5			5	%	-	15	%
	Cash and cash equivalents(1)	18,831				20.4			14,979				19.9			0	%	-	10	%
	Total plan assets	$	92,219			100	%		$	75,276			100	%
	(1) Cash and cash equivalents balance as a percent of total plan assets exceeded the target allocation in 2013 as we were in the process of reducing the number of external investment managers and moving funds between managers in early 2014.
	The investment return expectations for the pension plan are used to develop the asset allocation based on the specific needs of the pension plan. Accordingly, equity securities comprise the largest portion of our pension plan assets, as they yield the highest rate of return. The United Life annuity, which is the fourth largest asset category and was originally written by our life insurance subsidiary in 1976, provides a guaranteed rate of return. The interest rate on the group annuity contract is determined annually.
	The availability of assets held in cash and cash equivalents enables the pension plan to mitigate market risk that is associated with other types of investments and allows the pension plan to maintain liquidity both for the purpose of making future benefit payments to participants and their beneficiaries and for future investment opportunities.
	Valuation of Investments
	Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities
	Investments in fixed maturity and equity securities are stated at fair value based upon quoted market prices reported on recognized securities exchanges on the last business day of the year. Purchases and sales of securities are recorded as of the trade date.
	Pooled Separate Accounts
	The pension plan invested in two pooled separate account funds in 2013, a bond and mortgage separate account fund and a U.S. property separate account fund. Investments in the bond and mortgage separate account fund are stated at fair value as provided by the administrator of the fund based on the fair value of the underlying assets owned by the fund. The fair value measurement is classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the investments in the U.S property separate account fund is provided by the administrator of the fund based on the net asset value of the fund. The net asset value is based on the fair value of the underlying properties included in the fund. The fair value measurement is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. We have not adjusted the net asset value provided by the custodian.
	Arbitrage Fund
	The fair value of the arbitrage fund is determined based on its net asset value, which is obtained from the custodian and determined monthly with issuances and redemptions of units of the fund made, based on the net asset value per unit as determined on the valuation date. We have not adjusted the net asset value provided by the custodian.
	United Life Annuity
	The United Life group annuity contract, which is a deposit administration contract, is stated at contract value as determined by United Life. Under the group annuity contract, the plan’s investment account is credited with compound interest on the average account balance for the year. The interest rate is equivalent to the ratio of net investment income to mean assets of United Life, net of investment expenses.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents primarily consist of insured cash and money market funds held with various financial institutions. Interest is earned on a daily basis. The fair value of these funds approximates their cost basis due to their short-term nature.
	Fair Value Measurement
	The following tables present the categorization of the pension plan’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
						Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2013				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,489			$	—			$	4,489			$	—
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,381				1,381				—				—
	Equity securities	39,481				39,481				—				—
	Pooled separate accounts
	Bond and mortgage separate account fund	5,657				—				5,657				—
	U.S. property separate account fund	8,763				—				—				8,763
	Arbitrage fund	5,516				—				5,516				—
	Money market funds	17,323				17,323				—				—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	82,610			$	58,185			$	15,662			$	8,763
						Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2012				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,830			$	—			$	4,830			$	—
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,113				1,113				—				—
	Equity securities	41,091				41,091				—				—
	Arbitrage fund	5,363				—				5,363				—
Money market funds	12,856				12,856				—				—
Total assets measured at fair value	$	65,253			$	55,060			$	10,193			$	—
There were no transfers of assets in or out of Level 1 or Level 2 during the period.
The fair value of investments categorized as Level 1 is based on quoted market prices that are readily and regularly available.
The fair value of fixed maturity securities categorized as Level 2 is determined by management based on fair value information reported in the custodial statements, which is derived from recent trading activity of the underlying security in the financial markets. These securities represent various taxable bonds held by the pension plan.
The fair value of the arbitrage fund is categorized as Level 2 since there are no restrictions as to the pension plan’s ability to redeem its investment at the net asset value of the fund as of the reporting date.
The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of the pension plan’s Level 3 securities for 2013:
	U.S. property separate account fund
Balance at January 1, 2013	$	—
Unrealized gains	763
Purchases	8,000
Balance at December 31, 2013	$	8,763
Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make various estimates and assumptions that affect the reporting of net periodic benefit cost, plan assets and plan obligations for each plan at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. One significant estimate relates to the calculation of the benefit obligation for each plan. We annually establish the discount rate, which is an estimate of the interest rate at which these benefits could be effectively settled, that is used to determine the present value of the respective plan’s benefit obligations as of December 31. In estimating the discount rate, we look to rates of return on high-quality, fixed-income investments currently available and expected to be available during the period to maturity of the respective plan’s benefit obligations.
Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations
The following actuarial assumptions were used to determine the reported plan benefit obligations at December 31:
Weighted-average assumptions as of	Pension Benefits						Postretirement Benefits
December 31,	2013			2012			2013			2012
Discount rate	4.84	%		4	%		4.84	%		4	%
Rate of compensation increase	3.5			3.5			N/A			N/A
Increasing interest rates resulted in a significant increase in the discount rates we use to value our respective plan’s benefit obligations at December 31, 2013 compared to December 31, 2012. As a result, the valuation of the benefit obligations has decreased, which has increased the funded status of those plans as disclosed later in this section.
Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The following actuarial assumptions were used at January 1 to determine our reported net periodic benefit costs for the year ended December 31:
Weighted-average assumptions as of	Pension Benefits									Postretirement Benefits
January 1,	2013			2012			2011			2013			2012			2011
Discount rate	4	%		4.5	%		5.5	%		4	%		4.5	%		5.5	%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.5			8			8.25			N/A			N/A			N/A
Rate of compensation increase	3.5			3.75			4			N/A			N/A			N/A
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates
	Health Care Benefits						Dental Claims
Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2013			2012
Health care cost trend rates assumed for next year	7	%		10	%		4	%		5.25	%
Rate to which the health care trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	4.5	%		5.25	%		N/A			N/A
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2019			2018			N/A			N/A
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement benefit plan. A 1.0 percent change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
		1% Increase				1% Decrease
Effect on the net periodic postretirement health care benefit cost		$	1,287			$	(1,023	)
Effect on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation		8,328				(6,782		)
Benefit Obligation and Funded Status
The following table provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of our plans:
	Pension Benefits								Postretirement Benefits
Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2013				2012
Reconciliation of benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	131,382			$	111,340			$	44,395			$	36,334
Service cost	6,300				5,129				3,875				3,010
Interest cost	5,175				5,049				1,759				1,695
Actuarial (gain) loss	(15,161		)		12,841				(1,449		)		3,380
Benefit payments and adjustments	(4,344		)		(2,977		)		374				(24		)
Benefit obligation at end of year (1)	$	123,352			$	131,382			$	48,954			$	44,395
Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	75,276			$	65,267			$	—			$	—
Actual return on plan assets	14,287				6,236				—				—
Employer contributions	7,000				6,750				374				24
Benefit payments and adjustments	(4,344		)		(2,977		)		(374		)		(24		)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	92,219			$	75,276			$	—			$	—
Funded status at end of year	$	(31,133	)		$	(56,106	)		$	(48,954	)		$	(44,395	)
-1	For the pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation. For the postretirement benefit plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
Our accumulated pension benefit obligation was $106,207 and $109,229 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The following table displays the effect that the unrecognized prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial loss of our plans had on AOCI, as reported in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets:
		Pension Benefits								Postretirement Benefits
Years Ended December 31		2013				2012				2013				2012
Amounts recognized in AOCI
Unrecognized prior service cost		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	—
Unrecognized actuarial loss		32,162				60,647				13,147				14,596
Total amounts recognized in AOCI		$	32,162			$	60,647			$	13,147			$	14,596
We anticipate amortization of the net actuarial losses for our pension plan in 2014 to be $2,174. We anticipate amortization of the net actuarial losses for our postretirement benefit plan in 2014 to be $898.
Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The components of the net periodic benefit cost for our pension and postretirement benefit plans are as follows:
	Pension Plan												Postretirement Benefit Plan
Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011				2013				2012			2011
Net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	$	6,300			$	5,129			$	3,166			$	3,875			$	3,010		$	1,985
Interest cost	5,175				5,049				4,761				1,759				1,695			1,590
Expected return on plan assets	(5,772		)		(5,345		)		(5,288		)		—				—			—
Amortization of prior service cost	—				8				10				—				(6		)	(32		)
Amortization of net loss	4,989				4,415				2,368				879				554			224
Net periodic benefit cost	$	10,692			$	9,256			$	5,017			$	6,513			$	5,253		$	3,767
Effective July 1, 2012, the former employees of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. became eligible to participate in our pension plan. The inclusion of these employees resulted in an additional $854 of net periodic benefit cost recognized for 2012.
Projected Benefit Payments
The following table summarizes the expected benefits to be paid from our plans over the next 10 years:
		2014				2015				2016				2017				2018			2019 - 2023
Pension benefits		$	3,990			$	4,270			$	4,580			$	4,920			$	5,350		$	35,640
Postretirement benefits		$	1,130			$	1,250			$	1,380			$	1,540			$	1,750		$	13,360
Profit-Sharing Plan and Employee Stock Ownership Plan
We have a profit-sharing plan in which employees who meet service requirements are eligible to participate. The amount of our contribution is discretionary and is determined annually, but cannot exceed the amount deductible for federal income tax purposes. Our contribution to the profit-sharing plan for 2013, 2012 and 2011, was $6,029, $1,812 and $1,092, respectively.
We have an employee stock ownership plan (the “ESOP”) for the benefit of eligible employees and their beneficiaries. All employees are eligible to participate in the ESOP upon completion of one year of service, meeting the hourly employment requirements and attaining 21 years of age. Contributions to the ESOP are made at our discretion. When made, these contributions are based upon a percentage of total payroll and are allocated to participants on the basis of compensation. We can make contributions in stock or cash, which the trustee uses to acquire shares of our stock to allocate to participants’ accounts. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the ESOP owned 220,468 and 224,041 shares of United Fire common stock, respectively. Shares owned by the ESOP are included in shares issued and outstanding for purposes of calculating earnings per share, and dividends paid on the shares are charged to retained earnings. We did not make any contributions to the ESOP in 2013. We made contributions to the ESOP of $100 in 2012, and $175 in 2011.

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION	'
	STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
	Non-Qualified Employee Stock Award Plan
	The United Fire Group, Inc. 2008 Stock Plan (the “2008 Stock Plan”) authorized the issuance of restricted and unrestricted stock awards, stock appreciation rights, incentive stock options, and non-qualified stock options for up to 1,900,000 shares of United Fire common stock to employees, with 353,649 authorized shares remaining available for future issuance at December 31, 2013. The 2008 Stock Plan is administered by the Board of Directors, which determines those employees who will receive awards, when awards will be granted, and the terms and conditions of the awards. The Board of Directors may also take any action it deems necessary and appropriate for the administration of the 2008 Stock Plan. Pursuant to the 2008 Stock Plan, the Board of Directors may, at its sole discretion, grant awards to our employees who are in positions of substantial responsibility with United Fire.
	Options granted pursuant to the 2008 Stock Plan are granted to buy shares of United Fire’s common stock at the market value of the stock on the date of grant. All outstanding option awards vest and are exercisable in installments of 20.0 percent of the number of shares covered by the option award each year from the grant date, unless the Board of Directors authorizes the acceleration of vesting. To the extent not exercised, vested option awards accumulate and are exercisable by the awardee, in whole or in part, in any subsequent year included in the option period, but not later than 10 years from the grant date. Restricted and unrestricted stock awards granted pursuant to the 2008 Stock Plan are granted at the market value of our common stock on the date of the grant. Restricted stock awards fully vest after 5 years from the date of issuance, unless accelerated upon the approval of the Board of Directors, at which time United Fire common stock will be issued to the awardee. All awards are generally granted free of charge to the eligible employees of United Fire as designated by the Board of Directors.
	The activity in the 2008 Stock Plan is displayed in the following table:
	Authorized Shares Available for Future Award Grants	Year Ended December 31, 2013			From Inception to December 31, 2013
	Beginning balance	568,746			1,900,000
	Number of awards granted	(238,672	)		(1,682,496	)
	Number of awards forfeited or expired	23,575			136,145
	Ending balance	353,649			353,649
	Number of option awards exercised	154,926			381,768
	Number of unrestricted stock awards granted	935			4,555
	Number of restricted stock awards vested	18,576			18,576
	Non-Qualified Non-Employee Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan
	The United Fire Group, Inc. 2005 Non-Qualified Non-Employee Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan (the “Director Plan”) authorizes the issuance of restricted stock awards and non-qualified stock options to purchase shares of United Fire’s common stock to non-employee directors. At December 31, 2013, we had 103,912 authorized shares available for future issuance.
	The Board of Directors has the authority to determine which non-employee directors receive awards, when options and restricted stock shall be granted, the option price, the option expiration date, the date of grant, the vesting schedule of options or whether the options shall be immediately vested, the terms and conditions of options and restricted stock (other than those terms and conditions set forth in the plan) and the number of shares of common stock to be issued pursuant to an option agreement or restricted stock agreement. The Board of Directors may also take any action it deems necessary and appropriate for the administration of the Director Plan.
	The activity in the Director Plan is displayed in the following table:
	Authorized Shares Available for Future Award Grants	Year Ended December 31, 2013			From Inception to December 31, 2013
	Beginning balance	130,012			300,000
	Number of awards granted	(26,100	)		(202,091	)
	Number of awards forfeited or expired	—			6,003
	Ending balance	103,912			103,912
	Number of option awards exercised	3,156			3,156
	Number of restricted stock awards vested	6,402			6,402
	Stock-Based Compensation Expense
	In 2013, 2012, and 2011, we recognized stock-based compensation expense of $1,777, $1,764 and $1,829, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2013, we had $3,272 in stock-based compensation expense that has yet to be recognized through our results of operations. We expect this compensation to be recognized in subsequent years according to the following table, except with respect to awards that are accelerated by the Board of Directors, in which case we will recognize any remaining compensation expense in the period in which the awards are accelerated.
	2014		$	1,228
	2015		994
	2016		569
	2017		423
	2018		58
	Total		$	3,272
	Analysis of Award Activity
	The analysis below details the award activity for 2013 and the awards outstanding at December 31, 2013, for both of our plans and ad hoc options, which were granted prior to the adoption of the other plans:
	Options	Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price				Weighted-Average Remaining Life (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013	1,242,442			$	27.78
	Granted	233,348			24.41
	Exercised	(168,482	)		19.98
	Forfeited or expired	(19,998	)		31.58
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	1,287,310			$	28.13			5.31		$	4,524
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	803,568			$	31.66			3.91		$	1,425
	Intrinsic value is the difference between our share price on the last day of trading (i.e., December 31, 2013) and the price of the options when granted and represents the value that would have been received by option holders had they exercised their options on that date. These values change based on the fair market value of our shares. The intrinsic value of options exercised totaled $1,383, $229 and $35 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	The analysis below details the award activity for the restricted stock awards outstanding at December 31, 2013:
	Restricted stock awards	Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2013	54,338			$	25.01
	Granted	30,489			24.78
	Vested	(24,978	)		30.38
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	59,849			$	22.7
	In 2013, 2012 and 2011 we recognized $407, $329 and $245, respectively, in compensation expense related to the restricted stock awards. At December 31, 2013, we had $790 in compensation expense that has yet to be recognized through our results of operations related to the restricted stock awards. The intrinsic value of the non-vested restricted stock awards outstanding totaled $358, $1,187 and $1,013 at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Assumptions
	The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the options granted under our plans has been estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
	December 31,	2013				2012				2011
	Risk-free interest rate	1.37		%		1.37		%		2.99		%
	Expected volatility	34.32		%		37.06		%		55.47		%
	Expected option life (in years)	7				7				7
	Expected dividends (in dollars)	$	0.69			$	0.6			$	0.6
	Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year (in dollars)	$	6.64			$	5.9			$	8.99
	The following table summarizes information regarding the stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2013:
						Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Prices					Number Outstanding (in shares)		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Number Exercisable (in shares)	Weighted-Average Exercise Price
	$	15.01		-	21	331,017		7.04	$	19.88		115,218	$	19.47
	21.01			-	28	317,815		7.88	23.57			70,932	23.5
28.01			-	35	338,478		3.52	32.74			317,418	32.99
35.01			-	41	300,000		2.71	36.85			300,000	36.85
$	15.01		-	41	1,287,310		5.31	$	28.13		803,568	$	31.66

SEGMENT_INFORMATION

SEGMENT INFORMATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
SEGMENT INFORMATION	'
	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	We have two reportable business segments in our operations: property and casualty insurance and life insurance. The property and casualty insurance segment has six domestic locations from which it conducts its business. The life insurance segment operates from our home office. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We analyze results based on profitability (i.e., loss ratios), expenses and return on equity. Because all of our insurance is sold domestically, we have no revenues allocable to foreign operations.
	Property and Casualty Insurance Segment
	We write both commercial and personal lines of property and casualty insurance. We focus on our commercial lines, which represented 90.5 percent of our property and casualty insurance premiums earned for 2013. Our personal lines represented 9.5 percent of our property and casualty insurance premiums earned for 2013.
	Products
	Our primary commercial policies are tailored business packages that include the following coverages: fire and allied lines, other liability, automobile, workers’ compensation and surety. Our personal lines consist primarily of automobile and fire and allied lines coverage, including homeowners.
	Pricing
	Pricing levels for our property and casualty insurance products are influenced by many factors, including an estimation of expected losses, the expenses of producing, issuing and servicing business and managing claims, the time value of money associated with such loss and expense cash flows, and a reasonable allowance for profit. We have a disciplined approach to underwriting and risk management that emphasizes profitable growth rather than premium volume or market share. Our insurance company subsidiaries are subject to state laws and regulations regarding rate and policy form approvals. The applicable state laws and regulations establish standards in certain lines of business to ensure that rates are not excessive, inadequate, unfairly discriminatory, or used to engage in unfair price competition. Our ability to increase rates and the relative timing of the process are dependent upon each respective state’s requirements, as well as the competitive market environment.
	Seasonality
	Our property and casualty insurance segment experiences some seasonality with regard to premiums written, which are generally highest in January and July and lowest during the fourth quarter. Although we experience some seasonality in our premiums written, premiums are earned ratably over the period of coverage. Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred tend to remain consistent throughout the year, with the exception of catastrophe losses. Catastrophes inherently are unpredictable and can occur at any time during the year from man-made or natural disaster events that include, but which are not limited to, hail, tornadoes, hurricanes and windstorms.
	Life Insurance Segment
	Products
	United Life Insurance Company underwrites all of our life insurance business and sells annuities. Our principal products are single premium annuities, universal life products and traditional life (primarily single premium whole life insurance) products. We also underwrite and market other traditional products, including term life insurance and whole life insurance. We do not write variable annuities or variable insurance products.
	Life insurance in force, before ceded reinsurance, totaled $5,300,209 and $5,206,087 as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Traditional life insurance products represented 66.7 percent and 65.4 percent of our insurance in-force at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Universal life insurance represented 28.4 percent and 29.8 percent of insurance in force at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Pricing
	Premiums for our life and health insurance products are based on assumptions with respect to mortality, morbidity, investment yields, expenses, and lapses and are also affected by state laws and regulations, as well as competition. Pricing assumptions are based on our experience, as well as the industry in general, depending upon the factor being considered. The actual profit or loss produced by a product will vary from the anticipated profit if the actual experience differs from the assumptions used in pricing the product.
	Premiums Earned by Segment
	The following table sets forth our net premiums earned by segment before intersegment eliminations:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Property and Casualty Insurance Segment
	Net premiums earned
	Fire and allied lines	$	208,030		$	173,249		$	153,839
	Other liability	199,548			197,842			159,977
	Automobile	169,211			155,572			133,974
	Workers’ compensation	81,616			68,643			54,404
	Fidelity and surety	18,746			17,713			16,665
	Reinsurance assumed	14,406			14,473			13,261
	Other	2,635			1,919			1,651
	Total net premiums earned	$	694,192		$	629,411		$	533,771
	Life Insurance Segment
	Net premiums earned
	Ordinary life (excluding universal life)	$	38,875		$	44,468		$	30,374
	Universal life policy fees	11,871			11,768			10,995
	Accident and health	1,302			1,363			1,472
	Immediate annuities with life contingencies	8,837			8,158			10,276
	Other	261			274			262
	Total net premiums earned	$	61,146		$	66,031		$	53,379
	Total revenue by segment includes sales to external customers and intersegment sales that are eliminated to arrive at the total revenues as reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. We account for intersegment sales on the same basis as sales to external customers.
	The following table sets forth certain data for each of our business segments and is reconciled to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Depreciation and amortization expense and property and equipment acquisitions for 2013, 2012 and 2011, are reported in the property and casualty insurance segment.
		2013			2012			2011
	Property and Casualty Insurance:
	Revenues:
	Net premiums earned	$	694,192		$	629,411		$	533,771
	Investment income, net of investment expenses	46,279			40,305			35,690
	Net realized investment gains	6,260			3,896			3,066
	Other income	88			316			1,592
	Total revenues before eliminations	$	746,819		$	673,928		$	574,119
	Intersegment eliminations	53			(646		)	(162		)
	Total revenues	$	746,872		$	673,282		$	573,957
	Net income (loss) before income taxes:
	Revenues	$	746,819		$	673,928		$	574,119
	Benefit, losses and expenses	658,645			637,648			598,684
	Total net income (loss) before eliminations	$	88,174		$	36,280		$	(24,565	)
	Intersegment eliminations	545			(199		)	335
	Income (loss) before income taxes	$	88,719		$	36,081		$	(24,230	)
	Income tax expense (benefit)	21,263			2,569			(16,591		)
	Net income (loss)	$	67,456		$	33,512		$	(7,639	)
	Assets
	Total segment	$	2,218,464		$	2,149,356		$	2,117,352
	Intersegment eliminations	(223,395		)	(244,041		)	(252,205		)
	Total assets	$	1,995,069		$	1,905,315		$	1,865,147
	Life Insurance:
	Revenues:
Net premiums earned	$	61,146		$	66,031		$	53,379
Investment income, net of investment expenses	66,467			70,026			73,977
Net realized investment gains	2,434			3,777			3,647
Other income	614			575			699
Total revenues before eliminations	$	130,661		$	140,409		$	131,702
Intersegment eliminations	(491		)	(448		)	(651		)
Total revenues	$	130,170		$	139,961		$	131,051
Net income before income taxes:
Revenues	$	130,661		$	140,409		$	131,702
Benefit, losses and expenses	117,159			130,135			119,712
Total net income before eliminations	$	13,502		$	10,274		$	11,990
Intersegment eliminations	(319		)	(281		)	(475		)
Income before income taxes	$	13,183		$	9,993		$	11,515
Income tax expense	4,499			3,293			3,865
Net income	$	8,684		$	6,700		$	7,650
Assets	$	1,725,603		$	1,789,338		$	1,753,777
Consolidated Totals:
Total revenues	$	877,042		$	813,243		$	705,008
Total net income	$	76,140		$	40,212		$	11
Total assets	$	3,720,672		$	3,694,653		$	3,618,924

QUARTERLY_SUPPLEMENTARY_FINANC

QUARTERLY SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'
QUARTERLY SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)	'
	QUARTERLY SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
	The following table sets forth our selected unaudited quarterly financial information:
	(In Thousands Except Share Data)
	Quarters	First		Second		Third		Fourth			Total
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Total revenues	$	205,305	$	219,719	$	223,024	$	228,994		$	877,042
	Income before income taxes	29,850		20,318		14,395		37,339			101,902
	Net income	$	22,393	$	15,496	$	11,725	$	26,526		$	76,140
	Basic earnings per share (1)	$	0.89	$	0.61	$	0.46	$	1.04		$	3.01
	Diluted earnings per share (1)	0.88		0.61		0.45		1.04			2.98
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Total revenues	$	193,699	$	199,646	$	206,581	$	213,317		$	813,243
	Income (loss) before income taxes	24,876		19,177		10,020		(7,999		)	46,074
	Net income (loss)	$	19,184	$	14,716	$	8,730	$	(2,418	)	$	40,212
	Basic earnings (loss) per share (1)	$	0.75	$	0.58	$	0.34	$	(0.10	)	$	1.58
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share (1)	0.75		0.58		0.34		(0.10		)	1.58
	-1	The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

EARNINGS_PER_COMMON_SHARE

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	'
	EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share gives effect to all dilutive common shares outstanding during the reporting period. The dilutive shares we consider in our diluted earnings per share calculation relate to our outstanding stock options and restricted stock awards.
	We determine the dilutive effect of our outstanding stock options using the “treasury stock” method. Under this method, we assume the exercise of all of the outstanding stock options whose exercise price is less than the weighted-average market value of our common stock during the reporting period. This method also assumes that the proceeds from the hypothetical stock option exercises are used to repurchase shares of our common stock at the weighted-average market value of the stock during the reporting period. The net of the assumed stock options exercised and assumed common shares repurchased represents the number of dilutive common shares, which we add to the denominator of the earnings per share calculation.
	The components of basic and diluted earnings per share were as follows:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	(In Thousands Except Per Share Data)	Basic		Diluted		Basic		Diluted		Basic		Diluted
	Net income	$	76,140	$	76,140	$	40,212	$	40,212	$	11	$	11
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding	25,325,695		25,325,695		25,447,918		25,447,918		25,878,535		25,878,535
	Add dilutive effect of restricted stock awards	—		59,849		—		54,338		—		50,206
	Add dilutive effect of stock options	—		145,831		—		2,270		—		30,108
	Weighted-average common shares	25,325,695		25,531,375		25,447,918		25,504,526		25,878,535		25,958,849
	Earnings per common share	$	3.01	$	2.98	$	1.58	$	1.58	$	—	$	—
	Awards excluded from diluted calculation(1)	—		638,478		—		901,008		—		989,047
	-1	Outstanding awards that are not “in-the-money” are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because the effect of including them would have been anti-dilutive.

LEASE_COMMITMENTS

LEASE COMMITMENTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
LEASE COMMITMENTS	'
	LEASE COMMITMENTS
	At December 31, 2013, we were obligated under noncancelable operating lease agreements for office space, vehicles, computer equipment and office equipment. Most of our leases include renewal options, purchase options or both. These provisions may be exercised by us upon the expiration of the related lease agreements. Rental expense under our operating lease agreements was $6,521, $6,017 and $5,232 for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Our most significant lease arrangement is for office space for our regional office in Galveston, Texas. This lease expires in November 2014. The annual lease payments for this office space total approximately $2,105.
	At December 31, 2013, our future minimum rental payments are as follows:
	2014	$	7,340
	2015	4,829
	2016	4,099
	2017	3,186
	2018	1,504
	Thereafter	3,219
	Total	$	24,177

DEBT

DEBT	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
DEBT	'
	DEBT
	In December 2011, United Fire entered into a credit agreement with a syndicate of financial institutions as lenders. KeyBank National Association is the administrative agent, lead arranger, sole book runner, swingline lender, and letter of credit issuer, and Bankers Trust Company is the syndication agent. The four-year credit agreement provides for a $100,000 unsecured revolving credit facility that includes a $20,000 letter of credit subfacility and a swing line subfacility in the amount of up to $5,000.
	On June 4, 2013, United Fire & Casualty Company, United Fire Group, Inc. and the syndicated lenders entered into an Assignment, Joinder, Assumption, and Release Agreement (the “Joinder Agreement”) transferring the obligations under the credit agreement from United Fire & Casualty Company to United Fire Group, Inc. Effective with the execution of the Joinder Agreement, United Fire & Casualty Company was released from any further obligations under the credit agreement.
	During the term of this credit agreement, we have the right to increase the total credit facility from $100,000 up to $125,000 if no event of default has occurred and is continuing and certain other conditions are satisfied. The credit facility is available for general corporate purposes, including working capital, acquisitions and liquidity purposes. Any principal outstanding under the credit facility is due in full at maturity, on December 22, 2015. The interest rate is based on our monthly choice of either a base rate or the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus, in each case, a calculated margin amount. A commitment fee on each lender’s unused commitment under the credit facility is also payable quarterly.
	The credit agreement contains customary representations, covenants and events of default, including certain covenants that limit or restrict our ability to engage in certain activities. Subject to certain exceptions, these activities include restricting our ability to sell or transfer assets or enter into a merger or consolidate with another company, grant certain types of security interests, incur certain types of liens, impose restrictions on subsidiary dividends, enter into leaseback transactions, or incur certain indebtedness. The credit agreement contains certain financial covenants including covenants that require us to maintain a minimum consolidated net worth, a debt to capitalization ratio and minimum stockholders’ equity.
	There was no outstanding balance on the credit facility at December 31, 2013 or 2012. We did not incur any interest expense related to this credit facility in 2013 or 2011. We incurred $780 in interest expense related to this credit facility in 2012. We were in compliance with all covenants of the credit agreement at December 31, 2013.
	In connection with our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group on March 28, 2011, we acquired three statutory trusts with outstanding issuances of trust preferred securities balances as of the acquisition date of $15,614. We redeemed each of the trusts and related issuances in full in 2012. We incurred $509 and $1,055 of interest expense related to these trust preferred securities for 2012 and 2011, respectively.

INTANGIBLE_ASSETS

INTANGIBLE ASSETS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
INTANGIBLE ASSETS	'
	INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	The carrying value of our goodwill was $15,091 at both December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The goodwill is fully allocated to our property and casualty insurance segment.
	Our major classes of intangible assets are presented in the following table:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Agency relationships	$	10,338		$	10,338
	Accumulated amortization - agency relationships	(3,017		)	(2,380		)
		$	7,321		$	7,958
	Software	$	3,260		$	3,260
	Accumulated amortization - software	(3,260		)	(2,853		)
		$	—		$	407
	Trade names	$	1,978		$	1,978
	Accumulated amortization - trade names	(363		)	(231		)
		$	1,615		$	1,747
	Favorable contract	$	286		$	286
	Accumulated amortization - favorable contract	(286		)	(250		)
		$	—		$	36
	State insurance licenses (1)	$	3,020		$	3,020
	Net intangible assets	$	11,956		$	13,168
	(1) The intangible asset for licenses has an indefinite life and therefore is not amortized.
	The estimated useful lives assigned to our major classes of amortizable intangible assets are as follows:
		Useful Life
	Agency relationships	Fifteen years
	Software	Two years
	Trade names	Fifteen years
	Favorable contract	Two years
	Our estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years is as follows:
	2014	$	769
	2015	769
	2016	769
	2017	769
	2018	719

ACCUMULATED_OTHER_COMPREHENSIV

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	'
	ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	The following table shows the changes in the components of our accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
					Liability for
		Net unrealized			underfunded
		appreciation			employee
		on investments			benefit costs			Total
	Balance as of January 1, 2011	$	102,649		$	(25,671	)	$	76,978
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	26,517			(17,790		)	8,727
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(4,790		)	1,671			(3,119		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	124,376		$	(41,790	)	$	82,586
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	22,386			(10,349		)	12,037
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(2,666		)	3,231			565
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	144,096		$	(48,908	)	$	95,188
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(23,068		)	15,643			(7,425		)
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(4,427		)	3,814			(613		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	116,601		$	(29,451	)	$	87,150

BUSINESS_COMBINATIONS

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS	'
	BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
	On March 28, 2011, we acquired 100 percent of the outstanding common stock of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. for $191,475. The acquisition was funded through a combination of cash and $79,900 of short-term debt. Accordingly, the results of operations for Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. have been included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from that date forward. There were no acquisitions in 2013 and 2012.
	The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed through the acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group at the acquisition date has been allocated to goodwill and intangible assets of our property and casualty insurance segment.
	The following is a summary of the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed of Mercer Insurance Group at the date of acquisition:
		28-Mar-11
	Assets
	Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities	$	401,548
	Equity securities	10,266
	Short-term investments	400
	Cash and cash equivalents	18,855
	Accrued investment income	3,741
	Premiums receivable	35,822
	Value of business acquired	27,436
	Property and equipment	14,985
	Reinsurance receivables and recoverables	58,193
	Prepaid reinsurance premiums	6,289
	Income taxes receivable	2,657
	Deferred income taxes	2,837
	Goodwill and intangible assets	32,293
	Other assets	11,353
	Total assets	$	626,675
	Liabilities
	Reserves for losses, claims and loss settlement expenses	$	310,647
	Unearned premiums	72,249
	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	33,690
	Debt	3,000
	Trust preferred securities	15,614
	Total liabilities	$	435,200
	Total net assets acquired	$	191,475
	The fair value of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities is primarily based on quoted prices for similar financial instruments in markets that are not active or on inputs that are observable either directly or indirectly for the full term of the financial instrument. The fair value of equity securities is primarily based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical financial instruments that we have the ability to access.
	The fair value of reserves for losses, claims and loss settlement expenses related to incurred claims and reinsurance receivables and recoverables is determined using a valuation model that is based on actuarial estimates of future cash flows for the underwriting liabilities. These future cash flows are adjusted for the time value of money using duration-matched risk-free interest rates that approximate current U.S. Treasury bill rates and a risk margin to compensate the acquirer for the risk associated with these liabilities.
	The value of business acquired (“VOBA”) at the acquisition date is an intangible asset relating to the difference between the unearned premium reserves acquired in the transaction and the estimated fair value of the unexpired insurance policies, which consists of two components: (1) a provision for loss and loss settlement expenses that will be incurred as the premium is earned and (2) a provision for policy maintenance costs related to servicing those policies until they expire. Loss and loss settlement expenses are valued in a manner identical to that used for loss reserve valuation. Policy maintenance costs are valued based on estimates of future cash flows that are discounted to present value using duration-matched risk-free interest rates. VOBA is reported as a component of deferred policy acquisition costs in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and is amortized over a twelve-month period from the acquisition date in proportion to the timing of the estimated underwriting profit associated with the in-force business. The amortization pattern for the VOBA asset will be greater in the initial months subsequent to the acquisition date in correlation to the remaining term of the policies that were underwritten by Mercer Insurance Group. We recorded amortization expense of $1,673 and $25,763 in 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	The fair value of property and equipment related to land and buildings approximates the appraised value of the respective assets at the acquisition date.
	The fair value of the intangible asset for agency relationships was established using the excess earnings method, which is an income approach based on estimated financial projections developed by management using market participant assumptions. Fair value has been estimated as the present value of the benefits anticipated from our continued relationship with these agencies that are in excess of the return required on the investment in contributory assets necessary to realize those benefits. The rate used to discount the net benefits is based on a risk-adjusted rate that takes into consideration market-based rates of return and is representative of the relative risk of the acquired asset.
	The fair value of the intangible asset for software was established using the replacement cost method, which estimates the cost to recreate the utility of the subject asset in consideration of the technological and functional obsolescence of the acquired software.
	The fair value of the intangible asset for trade names was established using the relief from royalty method, which treats the trade name as being licensed in an arm’s length transaction to a third party. A review was performed of comparable arm’s length royalty or license agreements involving assets that reflect similar risk and return investment characteristics with the subject trade name. The royalty rate selected is then multiplied by the net revenue expected to be generated by the trade names over the course of the assumed life of the trade names. The product of the royalty rate and the revenue provides an estimate of the royalty income that could be generated hypothetically by licensing the subject trade name.
	The fair value of the intangible asset for licenses was estimated by assigning values to state insurance licenses to determine the value of the company if it were sold as a “shell company” (i.e., no policies in force but with the license to write business in certain states). Value is derived from the states having limited the number of insurers licensed or from the significant expense of obtaining a new license from the state.
	The fair value of all other tangible assets and liabilities approximates their carrying values at the acquisition date due to their short-term duration.
	The following is a summary of our unaudited pro forma historical results as if Mercer Insurance Group had been acquired on January 1, 2011:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2011
	Revenue	$	741,833
	Net income (1)	8,139
	Basic earnings per share	0.31
	Diluted earnings per share	0.31
	(1) The year ended December 31, 2011 excludes transaction related expenses incurred that reduced net income by $11.9 million.
	The unaudited pro forma results above have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of the results of operations that actually would have resulted had the acquisition occurred at January 1, 2011, and they are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Annualized revenues of Mercer Insurance Group were $145,868 for 2011. Total revenues and net loss related to Mercer Insurance Group for the year ended December 31, 2011 recorded in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income were $109,043 and $14,650, respectively.

Schedule_I_Summary_of_Investme

Schedule I. Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract]	'
Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Related Parties	'
	Schedule I. Summary of Investments — Other than Investments in Related Parties
	December 31, 2013	(In thousands)
		Cost or Amortized Cost				Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet
	Type of Investment			Fair Value
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	United States Government and government agencies and authorities	$	321,600	$	303,478	$	303,478
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	690,711		714,161		714,157
	Foreign governments	168,640		174,109		174,109
	Public utilities	213,479		218,576		218,576
	All other bonds	1,345,926		1,349,156		1,349,147
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,906		2,385		2,385
	Total fixed maturities	$	2,742,262	$	2,761,865	$	2,761,852
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	$	7,231	$	16,272	$	16,272
	Banks, trusts and insurance companies	15,853		88,262		88,262
	Industrial, miscellaneous and all other	43,753		120,956		120,956
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	6,487		6,365		6,365
	Total equity securities	$	73,324	$	231,855	$	231,855
	Mortgage loans on real estate	$	4,423	$	4,724	$	4,423
	Policy loans	6,261		6,261		6,261
	Other long-term investments	41,343		44,946		44,946
	Short-term investments	800		800		800
	Total investments	$	2,868,413	$	3,050,451	$	3,050,137

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia

Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company	'
	Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company
	United Fire Group, Inc. (parent company only)
	Condensed Balance Sheet
		December 31,
	(In thousands, except share data)	2013			2012
	ASSETS
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $200 in 2013 and $200 in 2012)	$	200		$	200
	Investment in subsidiary	778,843			723,705
	Cash and cash equivalents	3,253			5,140
	Federal income tax receivable	537			131
	Investment income receivable	1			1
	Total assets	$	782,834		$	729,177
	LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Liabilities	$	1		$	—
	Stockholders’ equity
	Common stock, $0.001 par value, authorized 75,000,000 shares; 25,360,893 and 25,277,463 issued and outstanding in 2013 and 2012, respectively	$	25		$	25
	Additional paid-in capital	211,574			208,536
	Retained earnings	484,084			425,428
	Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	87,150			95,188
	Total stockholders’ equity	$	782,833		$	729,177
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	782,834		$	729,177
	This condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.
	Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (continued)
	United Fire Group, Inc. (parent company only)
	Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income
		For the Years Ended December 31,
	(In thousands)	2013			2012(1)
	Revenues
	Investment income	$	23		$	13
	Total revenues	23			13
	Expenses
	Other operating expenses	172			158
	Total expenses	172			158
	Loss before income taxes and equity in net income of subsidiary	(149		)	(145		)
	Federal income tax benefit	(49		)	(51		)
	Net loss before equity in net income of subsidiary	$	(100	)	$	(94	)
	Equity in net income of subsidiary	76,240			40,306
	Net income	$	76,140		$	40,212
	Other comprehensive income (loss)
	Change in unrealized appreciation on investments held by subsidiary	$	(35,489	)	$	34,436
	Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans of subsidiary	24,066			(15,922		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax and reclassification adjustments	$	(11,423	)	$	18,514
	Income tax effect	3,998			(6,477		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax, before reclassification adjustments	$	(7,425	)	$	12,037
	Reclassification adjustment for net realized gains of the subsidiary included in income	(6,812		)	(4,102		)
	Reclassification adjustment for employee benefit costs of the subsidiary included in expense	5,868			4,971
	Total reclassification adjustments, before tax	$	(944	)	$	869
	Income tax effect	331			(304		)
	Total reclassification adjustments, after tax	$	(613	)	$	565
	Comprehensive income	$	68,102		$	52,814
	(1) The Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.
	On February 1, 2012, we completed a holding company reorganization (the “Reorganization”) of United Fire Group, Inc., United Fire & Casualty Company, and UFC MergeCo, Inc., an Iowa corporation formed for the purpose of facilitating the Reorganization. The Reorganization agreement was approved and adopted by United Fire & Casualty Company's shareholders at a special meeting held on January 24, 2012.
	United Fire Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. The federal income tax provision represents an allocation under it’s tax allocation agreements.
	This condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.
	Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (continued)
	United Fire Group, Inc. (parent company only)
	Condensed Statement of Cash Flows
		For the Years Ended December 31,
	(In thousands)	2013			2012(1)
	Cash Flows From Operating Activities
	Net income	$	76,140		$	40,212
	Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
	Equity in net income of subsidiary	(76,240		)	(40,306		)
Dividends received from subsidiary	13,175			26,950
Other, net	1,261			26
Total adjustments	(61,804		)	(13,330		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	14,336		$	26,882
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
Purchase of held-to-maturity investments	$	—		$	(200	)
Net cash used in investing activities	$	—		$	(200	)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
Repurchase of common stock	$	(1,644	)	$	(7,301	)
Issuance of common stock	3,393			1,106
Tax impact from issuance of common stock	(488		)	(78		)
Payment of cash dividends	(17,484		)	(15,269		)
Net cash used in financing activities	$	(16,223	)	$	(21,542	)
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	(1,887	)	$	5,140
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period	5,140			—
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year	$	3,253		$	5,140
(1) The Condensed Statement of Cash Flows includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.
On February 1, 2012, we completed a holding company reorganization (the “Reorganization”) of United Fire Group, Inc., United Fire & Casualty Company, and UFC MergeCo, Inc., an Iowa corporation formed for the purpose of facilitating the Reorganization. The Reorganization agreement was approved and adopted by United Fire & Casualty Company's shareholders at a special meeting held on January 24, 2012.
This condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes included in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

Schedule_III_Supplementary_Ins

Schedule III. Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]	'
Supplementary Insurance Information	'
	Schedule III. Supplementary Insurance Information
	(In thousands)	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs		Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Earned Premium Revenue		Investment Income, Net		Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (3)		Other Underwriting Expenses		Interest on Policyholders’ Accounts		Premiums Written (2)
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Property and casualty	$	67,663	$	960,651	$	340,387	$	694,192	$	46,332	$	437,354	$	147,175	$	73,626	$	—	$	722,821
	Life, accident and health (1)	82,429		1,472,132		77		60,654		66,467		59,085		6,502		16,235		35,163		—
	Total	$	150,092	$	2,432,783	$	340,464	$	754,846	$	112,799	$	496,439	$	153,677	$	89,861	$	35,163	$	722,821
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Property and casualty	$	64,947	$	971,911	$	311,561	$	629,411	$	41,879	$	439,137	$	134,444	$	63,620	$	—	$	655,331
	Life, accident and health (1)	40,353		1,498,176		89		65,583		70,026		63,664		7,390		17,505		41,409		—
	Total	$	105,300	$	2,470,087	$	311,650	$	694,994	$	111,905	$	502,801	$	141,834	$	81,125	$	41,409	$	655,331
	Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Property and casualty	$	60,668	$	945,051	$	288,868	$	533,771	$	35,513	$	407,831	$	143,952	$	46,404	$	—	$	551,923
	Life, accident and health (1)	45,986		1,476,281		123		53,012		73,981		55,125		9,224		12,353		42,834		—
	Total	$	106,654	$	2,421,332	$	288,991	$	586,783	$	109,494	$	462,956	$	153,176	$	58,757	$	42,834	$	551,923
	-1	Annuity deposits are included in future policy benefits, losses, claims and loss expenses.
	-2	Pursuant to Regulation S-X, premiums written does not apply to life insurance companies.
	-3	2012 and 2011 include amortization of the value of business acquired asset that was recorded as a result of our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. totaling $1,673 and $25,763, respectively.

Schedule_IV_Reinsurance

Schedule IV. Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract]	'
Reinsurance	'
	Schedule IV. Reinsurance
	(In thousands)	Gross Amount		Ceded to Other Companies		Assumed From Other Companies		Net Amount		Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net Earned
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Life insurance in force	$	5,300,305	$	1,112,688	$	4	$	4,187,621
	Premiums earned
	Property and casualty insurance	$	726,221	$	50,514	$	18,485	$	694,192	2.66	%
	Life, accident and health insurance	63,446		2,792		—		60,654		—	%
	Total	$	789,667	$	53,306	$	18,485	$	754,846	2.45	%
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Life insurance in force	$	5,206,065	$	1,083,410	$	22	$	4,122,677
	Premiums earned
	Property and casualty insurance	$	659,989	$	47,467	$	16,889	$	629,411	2.68	%
	Life, accident and health insurance	68,204		2,621		—		65,583		—	%
	Total	$	728,193	$	50,088	$	16,889	$	694,994	2.43	%
	Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Life insurance in force	$	4,916,833	$	974,556	$	42	$	3,942,319
	Premiums earned
	Property and casualty insurance	$	564,506	$	45,604	$	14,869	$	533,771	2.79	%
	Life, accident and health insurance	55,330		2,318		—		53,012		—	%
	Total	$	619,836	$	47,922	$	14,869	$	586,783	2.53	%

Schedule_V_Valuation_and_Quali

Schedule V. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	'
	Schedule V. Valuation And Qualifying Accounts
	(In thousands)	Balance at beginning of period		Charged to costs and expenses		Deductions		Balance at end of period
	Description
	Allowance for bad debts
	Year Ended December 31, 2013	$	866	$	30	$	—	$	896
	Year Ended December 31, 2012	825		41		—		866
	Year Ended December 31, 2011	1,001		—		176		825
	Deferred tax asset valuation allowance (1)
	Year Ended December 31, 2013	$	2,909	$	—	$	548	$	2,361
	Year Ended December 31, 2012	3,456		—		547		2,909
	Year Ended December 31, 2011	4,004		—		548		3,456
	-1	Recorded in connection with the purchase of American Indemnity Financial Corporation in 1999.

Schedule_VI_Supplemental_Infor

Schedule VI. Supplemental Information Concerning Property and Casualty Insurance Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Information Concerning Property and Casualty Insurance Operations	'
	Schedule VI. Supplemental Information Concerning Property and Casualty Insurance Operations
	(In thousands)
	Affiliation with Registrant: United Fire & Casualty Company and consolidated property and casualty subsidiaries													Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses Incurred Related to:					Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (1)
				Reserves for Unpaid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses						Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)
		Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs										Net Investment Income									Paid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses
						Unearned Premiums		Earned Premiums						Current Year		Prior Years							Premiums Written
	2013	$	67,663	$	960,651	$	340,387	$	694,192	$	6,260	$	46,332	$	494,841	$	(57,487	)	$	147,175	$	419,894	$	722,821
	2012	$	64,947	$	971,911	$	311,561	$	629,411	$	1,676	$	41,879	$	512,564	$	(73,427	)	$	134,444	$	395,788	$	655,331
	2011	$	60,668	$	945,051	$	288,868	$	533,771	$	3,081	$	35,513	$	468,926	$	(61,095	)	$	143,952	$	399,828	$	551,923
	-1	2012 and 2011 include amortization of the value of business acquired asset that was recorded as a result of our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. totaling $1,673 and $25,763, respectively.

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT1

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'
Principles of Consolidation	'
	Principles of Consolidation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements include United Fire and its wholly owned subsidiaries: United Fire & Casualty Company, United Real Estate Holdings Company, LLC, United Life Insurance Company (“United Life”), Addison Insurance Company, American Indemnity Financial Corporation, Lafayette Insurance Company, United Fire & Indemnity Company, Texas General Indemnity Company (currently in run-off) and Mercer Insurance Group, Inc., which includes BICUS Services Corporation (currently inactive), Financial Pacific Insurance Company, Financial Pacific Insurance Group, Inc., Franklin Insurance Company, Mercer Insurance Company, and Mercer Insurance Company of New Jersey, Inc. (collectively, “Mercer Insurance Group”).
	United Fire Lloyds, an affiliate of United Fire & Indemnity Company, is organized as a Texas Lloyds plan, which is an aggregation of underwriters who, under a common name, engage in the business of insurance through a corporate attorney-in-fact. United Fire Lloyds is financially and operationally controlled by United Fire & Indemnity Company, its corporate attorney-in-fact, pursuant to three types of agreements: trust agreements between United Fire & Indemnity Company and certain individuals who agree to serve as trustees; articles of agreement among the trustees who agree to act as underwriters to establish how the Lloyds plan will be operated; and powers of attorney from each of the underwriters appointing a corporate attorney-in-fact, who is authorized to operate the Lloyds plan. Because United Fire & Indemnity Company can name the trustees, the Lloyds plan is perpetual, subject only to United Fire & Indemnity Company’s desire to terminate it.
	United Fire & Indemnity Company provides all of the statutory capital necessary for the formation of the Lloyds plan by contributing capital to each of the trustees. The trust agreements require the trustees to become underwriters of the Lloyds plan, to contribute the capital to the Lloyds plan, to sign the articles of agreement and to appoint the attorney-in-fact. The trust agreements also require the trustees to pay to United Fire & Indemnity Company all of the profits and benefits received by the trustees as underwriters of the Lloyds plan, which means that United Fire & Indemnity Company has the right to receive 100 percent of the gains and profits from the Lloyds plan. The trustees serve at the pleasure of United Fire & Indemnity Company, which may remove a trustee and replace that trustee at any time. Termination of a trustee must be accompanied by the resignation of the trustee as an underwriter, so that the trustee can obtain the capital contribution from the Lloyds plan to reimburse United Fire & Indemnity Company. By retaining the ability to terminate trustees, United Fire & Indemnity Company possesses the ability to name and remove the underwriters.
	United Real Estate Holdings, LLC, formed in 2013, is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Fire & Casualty Company and is organized as an Iowa Limited Liability Corporation, an unincorporated association formed for the purpose of holding United Fire & Casualty Company’s ownership in commercial real estate.
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared on the basis of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), which differ in some respects from those followed in preparing our statutory reports to insurance regulatory authorities. Our stand-alone financial statements submitted to insurance regulatory authorities are presented on the basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the insurance departments of the states in which we are domiciled (“statutory accounting principles”).
	In the preparation of the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements, we have evaluated all material subsequent events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date through the date on which the financial statements were issued for potential recognition or disclosure.
	Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The financial statement categories that are most dependent on management estimates and assumptions include: investments; deferred policy acquisition costs; reinsurance receivables and recoverables (for net realizable value); future policy benefits and losses, claims and loss settlement expenses; and pension and postretirement benefit obligations.
Universal Life and Annuity Policies	'
	On universal life and deferred annuity policies (i.e., non-traditional business), income and expenses are reported when charged and credited to policyholder account balances in order to result in recognition of profits over the lives of the related contracts. We accomplish this by means of a provision for future policy benefits and the deferral and subsequent amortization of policy acquisition costs.
Reinsurance	'
	Reinsurance
	Premiums earned and losses and loss settlement expenses incurred are reported net of reinsurance ceded. Ceded insurance business is accounted for on a basis consistent with the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts.
Investments	'
	Investments
	Investments in fixed maturities include bonds and redeemable preferred stocks. Our investments in held-to-maturity fixed maturities are recorded at amortized cost. Our investments in available-for-sale fixed maturities and trading securities are recorded at fair value.
	Investments in equity securities, which include common and non-redeemable preferred stocks, are classified as available-for-sale or trading and are recorded at fair value.
	Changes in unrealized appreciation and depreciation, with respect to available-for-sale fixed maturities and equity securities, are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of applicable deferred income taxes, in stockholders’ equity.
	Other long-term investments consist primarily of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting. Mortgage loans are recorded at their unpaid principal balance. Policy loans are recorded at the outstanding loan amount due from policyholders. Included in investments at December 31, 2013 and 2012, are securities on deposit with, or available to, various regulatory authorities as required by law, with fair values of $1,620,505 and $1,736,466, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash, money market accounts, and non-negotiable certificates of deposit with original maturities of three months or less.
Property, Equipment and Depreciation	'
	Property, Equipment and Depreciation
	Property and equipment is presented at cost less accumulated depreciation. At December 31, 2013, the Company had property and equipment of $47,218, which included buildings of $29,072, land of $7,163, furniture and fixtures of $2,707, computer equipment and software of $3,197 and an airplane of $5,079. At December 31, 2012, the Company had property and equipment of $43,090, which included buildings of $25,186, land of $6,879, furniture and fixtures of $1,024, computer equipment and software of $3,076 and an airplane of $6,925. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are generally expensed as incurred. We periodically review these assets for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the underlying asset may not be recoverable. A loss would be recognized if the estimated fair value of the asset were less than its carrying value.
	Depreciation is computed primarily by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
		Useful Life
	Computer equipment	Three years
	Furniture and fixtures	Seven years
	Leasehold improvements	Shorter of the lease term or useful life of the asset
	Real estate	Seven to thirty-nine years
	Software	Three years
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	Goodwill and other intangible assets arise as a result of business combinations and consist of the excess of the fair value of consideration paid over the tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We evaluate goodwill and other intangible assets for impairment at least on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the carrying amount of goodwill and other intangible assets may exceed its implied fair value. Goodwill is evaluated at the reporting unit level. Any impairment is charged to operations in the period that the impairment is identified. In 2013 and 2012, we performed a qualitative assessment of our goodwill. As a result of this assessment, we did not recognize an impairment charge on our goodwill in 2013 or 2012.
	Our intangible assets, which consist primarily of agency relationships, trade names, licenses, and software, are being amortized by the straight-line method over periods ranging from 2 years to 15 years, with the exception of licenses, which are indefinite-lived and not amortized.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are established based on differences between the financial statement bases of assets and liabilities and the tax bases of those same assets and liabilities, using the currently enacted statutory tax rates. Deferred income tax expense is measured by the year-to-year change in the net deferred tax asset or liability, except for certain changes in deferred tax amounts that affect stockholders’ equity and do not impact federal income tax expense.
	We did not recognize any liability for unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2013, or 2012 or at any time during 2013, 2012, and 2011. In addition, we have not accrued for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. However, if interest and penalties would need to be accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits, such amounts would be recognized as a component of federal income tax expense.
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	We currently have two equity compensation plans. One plan allows us to grant restricted and unrestricted stock, stock appreciation rights, incentive stock options, and non-qualified stock options to employees. The other plan allows us to grant restricted and non-qualified stock options to non-employee directors.
	We utilize the Black-Scholes option pricing method to establish the fair value of non-qualified stock options granted under our equity compensation plans. Our determination of the fair value of stock options on the date of grant using this option-pricing model is affected by our stock price, as well as assumptions regarding a number of complex and subjective variables, which include the expected volatility in our stock price, the expected term of the award, the expected dividends to be paid over the term of the award and the expected risk-free interest rate. Any changes in these assumptions may materially affect the estimated fair value of the award. For our restricted and unrestricted stock awards, we utilize the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant to establish the fair value of the award.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	'
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	Adopted Accounting Standards in 2013
	Comprehensive Income
	In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance that requires significant items that are reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) to net income in their entirety in the same reporting period, to be reported to show the effect of the reclassifications on the respective line items of the statement where net income is presented. These reclassifications can be presented either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes to the financial statements. For items that are not reclassified to net income in their entirety in the same reporting period a cross reference to other disclosures currently required under GAAP is required in the notes to the financial statements. The new guidance also requires companies to report changes in the accumulated balances of each component of AOCI. This new guidance was effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The Company adopted the new guidance effective January 1, 2013. The adoption of the new guidance affects presentation only and therefore had no impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
	Pending Adoption of Accounting Standards
	In July 2013, the FASB issued guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. This new guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company currently does not have any liability for unrecognized tax benefits. Therefore, the adoption of the new guidance is not expected to have an impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'
Life Insurance Business	'
	Premiums written are deferred and recorded as earned premium on a daily pro rata basis over the terms of the respective policies. Unearned premium reserves are established for the portion of premiums written applicable to the unexpired term of insurance policies in force.
Loss and Loss Settlement Expense Reserves	'
	To establish loss and loss settlement expense reserves, we make estimates and assumptions about the future development of claims. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates, which are subjective, complex and inherently uncertain. When we establish and adjust reserves, we do so given our knowledge at the time of the circumstances and facts of known claims. To the extent that we have overestimated or underestimated our loss and loss settlement expense reserves, we adjust the reserves in the period in which such adjustment is determined.
Premiums Receivable	'
	Premiums receivable are presented net of an estimated allowance for doubtful accounts, which is based on a periodic evaluation of the aging and collectability of amounts due from agents and policyholders.
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	'
	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (“DAC”)
	Certain costs associated with underwriting new business (primarily commissions, premium taxes and variable underwriting and policy issue expenses associated with successful acquisition efforts) are deferred.
Life Insurance [Member]	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'
Life Insurance Business	'
	Life Insurance Business
	Our whole life and term insurance (i.e., traditional business) premiums are reported as earned when due and benefits and expenses are associated with premium income in order to result in the recognition of profits over the lives of the related contracts.
Premiums Receivable	'
	Premiums receivable are presented net of an estimated allowance for doubtful accounts.
Future Policy Benefits Liability	'
	Liabilities for future policy benefits for traditional products are computed by the net level premium method, using interest assumptions ranging from 4.5 percent to 6.0 percent and withdrawal, mortality and morbidity assumptions appropriate at the time the policies were issued. Liabilities for non-traditional business are stated at policyholder account values before surrender charges. Liabilities for traditional immediate annuities are based primarily upon future anticipated cash flows using assumptions for mortality and interest rates. Liabilities for deferred annuities are carried at the account value.
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	'
	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (“DAC”)
	Certain costs associated with underwriting new business (primarily commissions, premium taxes and variable underwriting and policy issue expenses associated with successful acquisition efforts) are deferred. The following table is a summary of the components of DAC that are reported in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements:
	Property & Casualty	2013			2012			2011
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	64,947		$	60,668		$	44,681
	Underwriting costs deferred	149,891			138,723			132,503
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(147,175		)	(132,771		)	(118,189		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	67,663		$	64,947		$	60,668
	Life Insurance
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	40,353		$	45,986		$	42,843
	Underwriting costs deferred	6,476			6,578			8,965
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(6,502		)	(7,390		)	(9,224		)
		$	40,327		$	45,174		$	42,584
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	82,429		$	40,353		$	45,986
	Total
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	105,300		$	106,654		$	87,524
	Underwriting costs deferred	156,367			145,301			141,468
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(153,677		)	(140,161		)	(127,413		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
		$	107,990		$	110,121		$	103,252
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	150,092		$	105,300		$	106,654
	Property and casualty policy acquisition costs deferred are amortized as premium revenue is recognized. The method followed in computing DAC limits the amount of such deferred costs to their estimated realizable value. This takes into account the premium to be earned, losses and loss settlement expenses to be incurred and certain other costs expected to be incurred as the premium is earned.
	For traditional life insurance policies, DAC is amortized to income over the premium-paying period in proportion to the ratio of the expected annual premium revenue to the expected total premium revenue. Expected premium revenue and gross profits are based on the same mortality and withdrawal assumptions used in determining future policy benefits. These assumptions are not revised after policy issuance unless the recorded DAC asset is deemed to be unrecoverable from future expected profits.
	For non-traditional life insurance policies, DAC is amortized over the anticipated terms in proportion to the ratio of the expected annual gross profits to the total expected gross profits. Changes in the amount or timing of expected gross profits result in adjustments to the cumulative amortization of these costs. The effect on amortization of DAC for revisions to estimated gross profits is reported in earnings in the period the estimated gross profits are revised.
	The effect on DAC that results from the assumed realization of unrealized gains (losses) on investments allocated to non-traditional life insurance business is recognized with an offset, or “shadow” DAC, to net unrealized investment appreciation as of the balance sheet date. The “shadow” DAC adjustment increased the DAC asset by $3,407 and decreased the DAC asset by $38,695 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	In October 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued updated accounting guidance to address the diversity in practice for the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance modifies the definition of acquisition costs to specify that a cost must be incremental and directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewal insurance contract in order to be deferred. Acquisition costs that are not eligible for deferral are to be charged to expense in the period incurred.

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT2

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	'
	The following table is a summary of the components of DAC that are reported in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements:
	Property & Casualty	2013			2012			2011
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	64,947		$	60,668		$	44,681
	Underwriting costs deferred	149,891			138,723			132,503
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(147,175		)	(132,771		)	(118,189		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	67,663		$	64,947		$	60,668
	Life Insurance
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	40,353		$	45,986		$	42,843
	Underwriting costs deferred	6,476			6,578			8,965
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(6,502		)	(7,390		)	(9,224		)
		$	40,327		$	45,174		$	42,584
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	82,429		$	40,353		$	45,986
	Total
	Recorded asset at beginning of year	$	105,300		$	106,654		$	87,524
	Underwriting costs deferred	156,367			145,301			141,468
	Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	(153,677		)	(140,161		)	(127,413		)
	Value of business acquired	—			—			27,436
	Amortization of value of business acquired	—			(1,673		)	(25,763		)
		$	107,990		$	110,121		$	103,252
	Change in “shadow” deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102			(4,821		)	3,402
	Recorded asset at end of year	$	150,092		$	105,300		$	106,654
Schedule of Estimated Useful Lives	'
	Depreciation is computed primarily by the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:
		Useful Life
	Computer equipment	Three years
	Furniture and fixtures	Seven years
	Leasehold improvements	Shorter of the lease term or useful life of the asset
	Real estate	Seven to thirty-nine years
	Software	Three years

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Tables

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Investments	'
	The table that follows is a reconciliation of the amortized cost (cost for equity securities) to fair value of investments in held-to-maturity and available-for-sale fixed maturity and equity securities as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.
	December 31, 2013
	Type of Investment	Cost or Amortized Cost				Gross Unrealized Appreciation				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair Value
	HELD-TO-MATURITY
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	$	250			$	4			$	—			$	254
	Corporate bonds - financial services	200				—				—				200
	Mortgage-backed securities	206				9				—				215
	Total Held-to-Maturity Fixed Maturities	$	656			$	13			$	—			$	669
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	33,612			$	423			$	140			$	33,895
	U.S. government agency	287,988				258				18,663				269,583
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	690,461				34,151				10,705				713,907
	Foreign bonds	167,390				5,863				397				172,856
	Public utilities	213,479				6,873				1,776				218,576
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	157,620				4,398				1,008				161,010
	Industrials	234,221				5,626				2,819				237,028
	Consumer goods and services	165,565				3,770				1,421				167,914
	Health care	91,008				3,138				1,200				92,946
	Technology, media and telecommunications	121,746				2,541				3,321				120,966
	Financial services	234,739				7,735				723				241,751
	Mortgage-backed securities	22,034				323				291				22,066
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	309,975				1,707				16,919				294,763
	Asset-backed securities	3,719				276				—				3,995
	Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,733,557			$	77,082			$	59,383			$	2,751,256
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	$	7,231			$	9,068			$	27			$	16,272
	Energy	5,094				9,269				—				14,363
	Industrials	13,308				32,823				32				46,099
	Consumer goods and services	10,363				10,895				—				21,258
	Health care	7,920				17,078				—				24,998
	Technology, media and telecommunications	6,204				7,183				83				13,304
	Financial services	15,853				72,537				128				88,262
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	4,984				5				177				4,812
	Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	70,957			$	158,858			$	447			$	229,368
	Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,804,514			$	235,940			$	59,830			$	2,980,624
	December 31, 2012
	Type of Investment	Cost or Amortized Cost				Gross Unrealized Appreciation				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair Value
	HELD-TO-MATURITY
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	$	1,185			$	11			$	—			$	1,196
	Corporate bonds - financial services	200				—				—				200
	Mortgage-backed securities	256				15				—				271
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	14				—				—				14
	Total Held-to-Maturity Fixed Maturities	$	1,655			$	26			$	—			$	1,681
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	37,887			$	939			$	5			$	38,821
	U.S. government agency	45,566				429				67				45,928
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	739,752				55,572				819				794,505
	Foreign bonds	207,359				11,863				62				219,160
	Public utilities	232,550				15,208				32				247,726
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	169,973				9,758				—				179,731
	Industrials	280,185				13,690				212				293,663
	Consumer goods and services	193,313				9,813				151				202,975
Health care	115,654				7,111				80				122,685
Technology, media and telecommunications	123,660				6,909				198				130,371
Financial services	271,061				13,858				1,059				283,860
Mortgage-backed securities	27,940				888				21				28,807
Collateralized mortgage obligations	208,042				7,702				1,160				214,584
Asset-backed securities	4,480				406				—				4,886
Redeemable preferred stocks	378				—				2				376
Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,657,800			$	154,146			$	3,868			$	2,808,078
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	$	7,231			$	7,268			$	83			$	14,416
Energy	5,094				6,903				—				11,997
Industrials	13,031				19,827				174				32,684
Consumer goods and services	10,394				8,535				50				18,879
Health care	7,920				10,286				125				18,081
Technology, media and telecommunications	5,367				5,155				95				10,427
Financial services	15,701				52,936				145				68,492
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	2,154				25				28				2,151
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	66,892			$	110,935			$	700			$	177,127
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,724,692			$	265,081			$	4,568			$	2,985,205
Maturities	'
	The amortized cost and fair value of held-to-maturity, available-for-sale and trading fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2013, by contractual maturity, are shown in the following table. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage obligations may be subject to prepayment risk and are therefore not categorized by contractual maturity.
		Held-To-Maturity								Available-For-Sale								Trading
	December 31, 2013	Amortized Cost				Fair Value				Amortized Cost				Fair Value				Amortized Cost				Fair Value
	Due in one year or less	$	135			$	136			$	231,060			$	234,922			$	1,350			$	1,359
	Due after one year through five years	315				318				950,084				996,862				3,762				5,147
	Due after five years through 10 years	—				—				848,931				855,156				—				—
	Due after 10 years	—				—				367,754				343,492				2,937				3,434
	Asset-backed securities	—				—				3,719				3,995				—				—
	Mortgage-backed securities	206				215				22,034				22,066				—				—
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	—				—				309,975				294,763				—				—
		$	656			$	669			$	2,733,557			$	2,751,256			$	8,049			$	9,940
Net Realized Investment Gains and Losses	'
	A summary of net realized investment gains (losses) for 2013, 2012 and 2011, is as follows:
		2013				2012				2011
	Net realized investment gains (losses)
	Fixed maturities:
	Held-to-maturity	$	1			$	12			$	8
	Available-for-sale	3,211				3,408				4,776
	Trading securities
	Change in fair value	1,183				683				(539		)
	Sales	788				406				(326		)
	Equity securities:
	Available-for-sale	3,739				698				2,988
	Trading securities
	Change in fair value	(126		)		250				(4		)
	Sales	38				—				—
	Other long-term investments	—				—				(68		)
	Other-than-temporary-impairment charges:
	Fixed maturities	(139		)		—				(395		)
	Equity securities	—				(4		)		—
	Total net realized investment gains	$	8,695			$	5,453			$	6,440
Proceeds and Gross Realized Gains and Losses	'
	The proceeds and gross realized gains (losses) on the sale of available-for-sale securities for 2013, 2012 and 2011, were as follows:
		2013				2012				2011
	Proceeds from sales	$	23,007			$	20,324			$	39,496
	Gross realized gains	451				513				1,144
	Gross realized losses	—				(37		)		(1,562		)
Net Investment Income	'
	Net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, is comprised of the following:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011
	Investment income
	Interest on fixed maturities	$	101,950			$	108,517			$	109,467
	Dividends on equity securities	5,806				5,354				4,628
	Income (loss) on other long-term investments
	Investment income	1,194				232				224
	Change in value (1)	7,030				2,562				(137		)
	Interest on mortgage loans	266				279				285
	Interest on short-term investments	6				10				4
	Interest on cash and cash equivalents	239				290				913
	Other	1,632				825				969
	Total investment income	$	118,123			$	118,069			$	116,353
	Less investment expenses	5,324				6,164				6,859
	Net investment income	$	112,799			$	111,905			$	109,494
	-1	Represents the change in value of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting.
Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation	'
	A summary of changes in net unrealized investment appreciation for 2013, 2012 and 2011, is as follows:
		2013				2012				2011
	Change in net unrealized investment appreciation
	Available-for-sale fixed maturities	$	(132,579	)		$	15,816			$	34,699
	Equity securities	48,176				19,339				(4,675		)
	Deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102				(4,821		)		3,402
	Income tax effect	14,806				(10,614		)		(11,699		)
	Total change in net unrealized investment appreciation, net of tax	$	(27,495	)		$	19,720			$	21,727
Investments in Unrealized Loss Position	'
	December 31, 2013	Less than 12 months											12 months or longer											Total
	Type of Investment	Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized				Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair		Gross Unrealized Depreciation
		of Issues			Value				Depreciation				of Issues			Value								Value
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	10			$	9,196			$	140			—			$	—			$	—			$	9,196	$	140
	U.S. government agency	101			256,203				18,019				2			4,356				644				260,559		18,663
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	136			97,950				7,423				29			29,670				3,282				127,620		10,705
	Foreign bonds	10			20,832				397				—			—				—				20,832		397
	Public utilities	31			61,582				1,776				—			—				—				61,582		1,776
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	9			23,735				1,008				—			—				—				23,735		1,008
	Industrials	34			77,788				2,819				—			—				—				77,788		2,819
	Consumer goods and services	31			58,833				1,276				6			3,218				145				62,051		1,421
	Health care	10			25,888				942				2			4,427				258				30,315		1,200
	Technology, media and telecommunications	18			58,105				2,147				2			7,468				1,174				65,573		3,321
	Financial services	7			15,191				720				1			1,525				3				16,716		723
	Mortgage-backed securities	16			4,476				177				6			3,113				114				7,589		291
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	111			208,855				11,062				23			55,184				5,857				264,039		16,919
	Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities	524			$	918,634			$	47,906			71			$	108,961			$	11,477			$	1,027,595	$	59,383
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	—			$	—			$	—			3			$	281			$	27			$	281	$	27
	Industrials	1			1				1				2			81				31				82		32
	Technology, media and telecommunications	—			—				—				6			206				83				206		83
	Financial services	—			—				—				4			215				128				215		128
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	3			3,493				116				2			1,170				61				4,663		177
	Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	4			$	3,494			$	117			17			$	1,953			$	330			$	5,447	$	447
	Total Available-for-Sale Securities	528			$	922,128			$	48,023			88			$	110,914			$	11,807			$	1,033,042	$	59,830
	December 31, 2012	Less than 12 months											12 months or longer											Total
	Type of Investment	Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Number			Fair				Gross Unrealized Depreciation				Fair		Gross Unrealized Depreciation
		of Issues			Value								of Issues			Value								Value
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	2			$	1,724			$	5			—			$	—			$	—			$	1,724	$	5
	U.S. government agency	5			17,654				67				—			—				—				17,654		67
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	31			41,775				819				—			—				—				41,775		819
	Foreign bonds	1			3,323				48				1			558				14				3,881		62
	Public utilities	2			3,155				32				—			—				—				3,155		32
	Corporate bonds
	Industrials	4			12,194				109				1			2,897				103				15,091		212
	Consumer goods and services	—			—				—				7			4,606				151				4,606		151
	Health care	3			7,416				80				—			—				—				7,416		80
	Technology, media and telecommunications	5			13,402				198				—			—				—				13,402		198
	Financial services	2			1,005				1				24			24,693				1,058				25,698		1,059
	Mortgage-backed securities	7			4,472				21				—			—				—				4,472		21
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	27			74,702				1,004				1			29				156				74,731		1,160
	Redeemable preferred stocks	2			376				2				—			—				—				376		2
	Total Available-for-Sale Fixed Maturities	91			$	181,198			$	2,386			34			$	32,783			$	1,482			$	213,981	$	3,868
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	3			$	225			$	83			—			$	—			$	—			$	225	$	83
	Industrials	4			482				52				9			621				122				1,103		174
	Consumer goods and services	2			280				19				4			372				31				652		50
	Health care	1			31				2				3			896				123				927		125
	Technology, media and telecommunications	5			241				7				7			581				88				822		95
	Financial services	1			47				19				7			1,109				126				1,156		145
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	—			—				—				2			1,203				28				1,203		28
	Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	16			$	1,306			$	182			32			$	4,782			$	518			$	6,088	$	700
	Total Available-for-Sale Securities	107			$	182,504			$	2,568			66			$	37,565			$	2,000			$	220,069	$	4,568

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_INSTRU1

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	A summary of the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments at December 31, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
		December 31, 2013						December 31, 2012
		Fair Value			Carrying Value			Fair Value			Carrying Value
	Assets
	Investments
	Fixed maturities:
	Held-to-maturity securities	$	669		$	656		$	1,681		$	1,655
	Available-for-sale securities	2,751,256			2,751,256			2,808,078			2,808,078
	Trading securities	9,940			9,940			13,353			13,353
	Equity securities:
	Available-for-sale securities	229,368			229,368			177,127			177,127
	Trading securities	2,487			2,487			2,018			2,018
	Mortgage loans	4,724			4,423			5,037			4,633
	Policy loans	6,261			6,261			6,671			6,671
	Other long-term investments	44,946			44,946			30,028			30,028
	Short-term investments	800			800			800			800
	Cash and cash equivalents	92,193			92,193			107,466			107,466
	Accrued investment income	27,923			27,923			30,375			30,375
	Liabilities
	Policy reserves
	Annuity (accumulations) (1)	$	941,636		$	925,832		$	1,043,866		$	983,579
	Annuity (benefit payments)	140,276			94,805			139,213			93,701
	(1) Annuity accumulations represent deferred annuity contracts that are currently earning interest.
Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables present the categorization for our financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis in our Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
					Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	33,895		$	—		$	33,895		$	—
	U.S. government agency	269,583			—			269,583			—
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	713,907			—			713,209			698
	Foreign bonds	172,856			—			172,856			—
	Public utilities	218,576			—			218,576			—
	Corporate bonds
	Energy	161,010			—			161,010			—
	Industrials	237,028			—			237,028			—
	Consumer goods and services	167,914			—			166,460			1,454
	Health care	92,946			—			92,946			—
	Technology, media and telecommunications	120,966			—			120,966			—
	Financial services	241,751			—			229,725			12,026
	Mortgage-backed securities	22,066			—			22,066			—
	Collateralized mortgage obligations	294,763			—			294,763			—
	Asset-backed securities	3,995			—			1,966			2,029
	Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,751,256		$	—		$	2,735,049		$	16,207
	Equity securities
	Common stocks
	Public utilities	$	16,272		$	16,272		$	—		$	—
	Energy	14,363			14,363			—			—
	Industrials	46,099			46,083			16			—
	Consumer goods and services	21,258			21,258			—			—
	Health care	24,998			24,998			—			—
	Technology, media and telecommunications	13,304			13,304			—			—
	Financial services	88,262			84,419			62			3,781
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	4,812			1,714			3,098			—
	Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	229,368		$	222,411		$	3,176		$	3,781
	Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,980,624		$	222,411		$	2,738,225		$	19,988
	TRADING
	Bonds
	Foreign bonds	$	1,253		$	—		$	1,253		$	—
	Corporate bonds
	Industrials	1,122			—			1,122			—
	Consumer goods and services	106			—			106			—
	Health care	1,154			—			1,154			—
	Technology, media and telecommunications	2,054			—			2,054			—
	Financial services	1,866			—			1,866			—
	Redeemable preferred stocks	2,385			2,385			—			—
	Equity securities
	Energy	563			563			—			—
	Consumer goods and services	39			39			—			—
	Health care	332			332			—			—
	Nonredeemable preferred stocks	1,553			1,553			—			—
	Total Trading Securities	$	12,427		$	4,872		$	7,555		$	—
	Short-Term Investments	$	800		$	800		$	—		$	—
	Money Market Accounts	$	37,811		$	37,811		$	—		$	—
	Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	$	3,031,662		$	265,894		$	2,745,780		$	19,988
					Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2012			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE
	Fixed maturities
	Bonds
	U.S. Treasury	$	38,821		$	—		$	38,821		$	—
	U.S. government agency	45,928			—			45,928			—
	States, municipalities and political subdivisions	794,505			—			793,755			750
	Foreign bonds	219,160			—			218,602			558
	Public utilities	247,726			—			247,726			—
Corporate bonds
Energy	179,731			—			179,731			—
Industrials	293,663			—			290,766			2,897
Consumer goods and services	202,975			—			201,633			1,342
Health care	122,685			—			122,685			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	130,371			—			130,371			—
Financial services	283,860			—			271,991			11,869
Mortgage-backed securities	28,807			—			28,807			—
Collateralized mortgage obligations	214,584			—			214,584			—
Asset-backed securities	4,886			—			2,398			2,488
Redeemable preferred stocks	376			376			—			—
Total Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities	$	2,808,078		$	376		$	2,787,798		$	19,904
Equity securities
Common stocks
Public utilities	$	14,416		$	14,416		$	—		$	—
Energy	11,997			11,997			—			—
Industrials	32,684			32,658			26			—
Consumer goods and services	18,879			18,879			—			—
Health care	18,081			18,081			—			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	10,427			10,427			—			—
Financial services	68,492			64,800			56			3,636
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	2,151			1,906			245			—
Total Available-for-Sale Equity Securities	$	177,127		$	173,164		$	327		$	3,636
Total Available-for-Sale Securities	$	2,985,205		$	173,540		$	2,788,125		$	23,540
TRADING
Bonds
Foreign bonds	$	1,379		$	—		$	1,379		$	—
Corporate bonds
Industrials	1,299			—			1,299			—
Consumer goods and services	1,532			—			1,532			—
Health care	1,824			—			1,824			—
Technology, media and telecommunications	2,250			—			2,250			—
Financial services	1,486			—			1,486			—
Redeemable preferred stocks	3,583			3,583			—			—
Equity securities - health care	303			303			—			—
Nonredeemable preferred stocks	1,715			1,715			—			—
Total Trading Securities	$	15,371		$	5,601		$	9,770		$	—
Short-Term Investments	$	800		$	800		$	—		$	—
Money Market Accounts	$	45,613		$	45,613		$	—		$	—
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	$	3,046,989		$	225,554		$	2,797,895		$	23,540
Changes in Fair Value of Level 3 Securities	'
	The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for 2013:
		States, municipalities and political subdivisions			Foreign bonds			Corporate bonds			Asset-backed securities			Equities			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2013	$	750		$	558		$	16,108		$	2,488		$	3,636		$	23,540
	Realized gains (1)	—			35			—			—			—			35
	Unrealized gains (losses) (1)	83			14			1,277			(53		)	(28		)	1,293
	Purchases	—			—			105			—			173			278
	Disposals	(135		)	(607		)	(4,010		)	(406		)	—			(5,158		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	698		$	—		$	13,480		$	2,029		$	3,781		$	19,988
	(1) Realized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of earnings whereas unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income.
	The fixed maturities reported as disposals relate to the receipt of principal on scheduled calls.
	The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of our Level 3 securities for 2012:
	(In Thousands)	States, municipalities and political subdivisions			Foreign bonds			Corporate bonds			Asset-backed securities			Equities			Total
	Balance at January 1, 2012	$	880		$	836		$	20,285		$	315		$	3,526		$	25,842
	Realized gains (1)	—			—			646			—			—			646
	Unrealized gains (losses) (1)	—			7			(352		)	(13		)	(23		)	(381		)
	Purchases	—			—			5			—			179			184
	Disposals	(130		)	(285		)	(4,476		)	(121		)	(50		)	(5,062		)
	Transfers in	—			—			—			2,307			52			2,359
	Transfers out	—			—			—			—			(48		)	(48		)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	750		$	558		$	16,108		$	2,488		$	3,636		$	23,540
	(1) Realized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of earnings whereas unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income.

REINSURANCE_Tables

REINSURANCE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'
Ceded and Assumed Reinsurance	'
	Premiums and loss and loss settlement expenses related to our ceded and assumed business are as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012		2011
	Ceded Business
	Ceded premiums written	$	50,711		$	44,240	$	43,921
	Ceded premiums earned	50,514			47,467		45,604
	Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded(1)	(8,552		)	5,525		39,335
	Assumed Business
	Assumed premiums written	$	18,938		$	17,181	$	14,954
	Assumed premiums earned	18,485			16,889		14,869
	Loss and loss settlement expenses assumed	8,268			16,873		24,151
	(1) In 2013, a reduction in our direct IBNR reserves caused a corresponding reduction in ceded IBNR reserves.  This factor, coupled with a lack of significant large losses exceeding our reinsurance retentions resulted in negative loss and loss settlement expenses ceded for the year.
Reinsurance Programs and Retentions	'
	The following table provides a summary of our primary reinsurance programs. Retention amounts reflect the accumulated retentions and co-participation of all layers within a program. In 2012, we added a $3,000 aggregate annual deductible to our core program multi-line (casualty excess and property excess).
		2013, 2012 & 2011 Reinsurance Programs
	Type of Reinsurance	Stated Retention			Limits		Coverage
	Casualty excess of loss	$	2,000		$	40,000	100	%	of	$	38,000
	Property excess of loss	2,000			15,000		100	%	of	$	13,000
	Surety excess of loss	1,500			28,000		91	%	of	$	26,500
	Property catastrophe, excess	20,000			200,000		95	%	of	$	180,000
	Boiler and machinery	N/A			50,000		100	%	of	$	50,000
	The following table provides a summary of Mercer Insurance Group’s primary reinsurance programs for 2011:
		2011 Reinsurance Programs
	Type of Reinsurance	Stated Retention			Limits		Coverage
	Casualty excess of loss (1)	$	1,000		$	5,000	100	%	of	$	4,000
	Property excess of loss (1)	1,000			10,000		100	%	of	$	9,000
	Umbrella excess of loss(1)	1,000			11,000		75	%	of first	$	1,000
							100	%	of remaining	$	9,000
	Surety excess of loss	500			4,500		90	%	of	$	4,000
									less	$500 deductible
	Property catastrophe, excess(2)	5,000			55,000		100	%	of	$	50,000
Life Insurance [Member]	'
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'
Ceded and Assumed Reinsurance	'
	Premiums and losses and loss settlement expenses related to our ceded business is as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012		2011
	Ceded Business
	Ceded insurance in-force	$	1,112,688		$	1,083,410	$	974,556
	Ceded premiums earned	2,792			2,621		2,318
	Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded	1,971			2,435		3,786

RESERVES_FOR_LOSS_AND_LOSS_SET1

RESERVES FOR LOSS AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Insurance Loss Reserves [Abstract]	'
Change in Property and Casualty Loss and Loss Settlement Expense Reserve	'
	The following table provides an analysis of changes in our property and casualty loss and loss settlement expense reserves for 2013, 2012 and 2011 (net of reinsurance amounts):
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	971,911		$	945,051		$	603,090
	at beginning of year
	Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	(103,870		)	(120,359		)	(39,000		)
	Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	868,041		$	824,692		$	564,090
	at beginning of year
	Reserves acquired in Mercer Insurance Group acquisition, net	—			—			252,598
	Beginning balance, as adjusted	$	868,041		$	824,692		$	816,688
	Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred
	for claims occurring during
	Current year	$	494,841		$	512,564		$	468,926
	Prior years	(57,487		)	(73,427		)	(61,095		)
	Total incurred	$	437,354		$	439,137		$	407,831
	Losses and loss settlement expense payments
	for claims occurring during
	Current year	$	203,868		$	201,632		$	253,175
	Prior years	216,026			194,156			146,653
	Total paid	$	419,894		$	395,788		$	399,828
	Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	885,501		$	868,041		$	824,692
	at end of year
	Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	75,150			103,870			120,359
	Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses	$	960,651		$	971,911		$	945,051
	at end of year

STATUTORY_REPORTING_CAPITAL_RE1

STATUTORY REPORTING, CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND DIVIDENDS AND RETAINED EARNINGS RESTRICTIONS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Statutory Insurance Financial Information [Abstract]	'
Statutory Capital, Surplus, and Net Income	'
	Statutory capital and surplus in regards to policyholders at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 and statutory net income for the years then ended are as follows:
		Statutory Capital and Surplus		Statutory Net Income
	2013
	Property and casualty (1)	$	665,772	$	84,255
	Life, accident and health	157,974		5,942
	2012
	Property and casualty (1)	$	585,986	$	34,468
	Life, accident and health	158,720		7,420
	2011
	Property and casualty (1)	$	565,843	$	10,529
	Life, accident and health	167,164		6,180
	-1	Because United Fire & Casualty Company owns United Life Insurance Company, the property and casualty statutory capital and surplus includes life, accident and health statutory capital and surplus, and therefore represents our total consolidated statutory capital and surplus.

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX_Tables

FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	'
	Federal income tax expense (benefit) is composed of the following:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Current	$	19,146		$	6,644		$	(3,517	)
	Deferred	6,616			(782		)	(9,209		)
	Total	$	25,762		$	5,862		$	(12,726	)
Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	'
	A reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) computed at the applicable federal tax rate of 35.0 percent to the amount recorded in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income is as follows:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Computed expected income tax expense (benefit)	$	35,666		$	16,126		$	(4,451	)
	Tax-exempt municipal bond interest income	(7,732		)	(8,027		)	(7,908		)
	Nontaxable dividend income	(1,053		)	(1,004		)	(859		)
	Valuation allowance reduction	(548		)	(547		)	—
	Acquisition related expenses	—			42			860
	Other, net	(571		)	(728		)	(368		)
	Federal income tax expense (benefit)	$	25,762		$	5,862		$	(12,726	)
Deferred Tax Liabilities	'
	The significant components of our net deferred tax liability at December 31, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Deferred tax liabilities
	Net unrealized appreciation on investment securities:
	Equity securities	$	55,402		$	38,582
	All other securities	6,201			52,563
	Deferred policy acquisition costs	47,809			32,086
	Prepaid pension cost	2,556			2,271
	Net bond discount accretion	2,069			3,896
	Depreciation	2,355			579
	Revaluation of investment basis (1)	3,595			4,345
	Identifiable intangible assets (1)	4,056			6,615
	Other	7,530			4,414
	Gross deferred tax liability	$	131,573		$	145,351
	Deferred tax assets
	Financial statement reserves in excess of income tax reserves	$	39,041		$	40,992
	Unearned premium adjustment	23,502			21,578
	Net operating loss carryforwards	2,361			3,481
	Underfunded benefit plan obligation	15,858			26,335
	Postretirement benefits other than pensions	12,342			10,240
	Other-than-temporary impairment of investments	5,222			5,715
	Contingent ceding commission accrual	3,726			4,822
	Compensation expense related to stock options	4,062			3,928
	AMT credit carryforward	476			7,713
	Other	5,429			3,828
	Gross deferred tax asset	$	112,019		$	128,632
	Valuation allowance	(2,361		)	(2,909		)
	Deferred tax asset	$	109,658		$	125,723
	Net deferred tax liability	$	21,915		$	19,628
	(1) Related to our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Tables

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Actual and Target Allocation of Plan Assets	'
	The following is a summary of the pension plan’s actual and target asset allocations at December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category:
	Pension Plan Assets															Target
		2013				% of Total			2012				% of Total			Allocation
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,489			4.9	%		$	4,830			6.4	%		0	%	-	25	%
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,381				1.5			1,113				1.5			0	%	-	20	%
	Equity securities	39,481				42.8			41,091				54.6			50	%	-	70	%
	Pooled separate accounts
	Bond and mortgage separate account fund	5,657				6.1			—				—			0	%		40	%
	U.S. property separate account fund	8,763				9.5			—				—			0	%		25	%
	Arbitrage fund	5,516				6			5,363				7.1			0	%	-	15	%
	United Life annuity	8,101				8.8			7,900				10.5			5	%	-	15	%
	Cash and cash equivalents(1)	18,831				20.4			14,979				19.9			0	%	-	10	%
	Total plan assets	$	92,219			100	%		$	75,276			100	%
Fair Value Measurement	'
	The following tables present the categorization of the pension plan’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
						Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2013				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,489			$	—			$	4,489			$	—
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,381				1,381				—				—
	Equity securities	39,481				39,481				—				—
	Pooled separate accounts
	Bond and mortgage separate account fund	5,657				—				5,657				—
	U.S. property separate account fund	8,763				—				—				8,763
	Arbitrage fund	5,516				—				5,516				—
	Money market funds	17,323				17,323				—				—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	82,610			$	58,185			$	15,662			$	8,763
						Fair Value Measurements
	Description	December 31, 2012				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	Fixed maturity securities - corporate bonds	$	4,830			$	—			$	4,830			$	—
	Redeemable preferred stock	1,113				1,113				—				—
	Equity securities	41,091				41,091				—				—
	Arbitrage fund	5,363				—				5,363				—
	Money market funds	12,856				12,856				—				—
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	65,253			$	55,060			$	10,193			$	—
Schedule of Changes in Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets	'
	The following table provides a summary of the changes in fair value of the pension plan’s Level 3 securities for 2013:
		U.S. property separate account fund
	Balance at January 1, 2013	$	—
	Unrealized gains	763
	Purchases	8,000
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	8,763
Schedule of Assumptions Used	'
	The following actuarial assumptions were used at January 1 to determine our reported net periodic benefit costs for the year ended December 31:
	Weighted-average assumptions as of	Pension Benefits									Postretirement Benefits
	January 1,	2013			2012			2011			2013			2012			2011
	Discount rate	4	%		4.5	%		5.5	%		4	%		4.5	%		5.5	%
	Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.5			8			8.25			N/A			N/A			N/A
	Rate of compensation increase	3.5			3.75			4			N/A			N/A			N/A
	The following actuarial assumptions were used to determine the reported plan benefit obligations at December 31:
	Weighted-average assumptions as of	Pension Benefits						Postretirement Benefits
	December 31,	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Discount rate	4.84	%		4	%		4.84	%		4	%
	Rate of compensation increase	3.5			3.5			N/A			N/A
Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates	'
	Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates
		Health Care Benefits						Dental Claims
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2013			2012
	Health care cost trend rates assumed for next year	7	%		10	%		4	%		5.25	%
	Rate to which the health care trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	4.5	%		5.25	%		N/A			N/A
	Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2019			2018			N/A			N/A
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates	'
	A 1.0 percent change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
			1% Increase				1% Decrease
	Effect on the net periodic postretirement health care benefit cost		$	1,287			$	(1,023	)
	Effect on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation		8,328				(6,782		)
Reconciliation of Benefit Obligations, Plan Assets, and Funded Status	'
	The following table provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of our plans:
		Pension Benefits								Postretirement Benefits
	Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2013				2012
	Reconciliation of benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	131,382			$	111,340			$	44,395			$	36,334
	Service cost	6,300				5,129				3,875				3,010
	Interest cost	5,175				5,049				1,759				1,695
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(15,161		)		12,841				(1,449		)		3,380
	Benefit payments and adjustments	(4,344		)		(2,977		)		374				(24		)
	Benefit obligation at end of year (1)	$	123,352			$	131,382			$	48,954			$	44,395
	Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	75,276			$	65,267			$	—			$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	14,287				6,236				—				—
	Employer contributions	7,000				6,750				374				24
	Benefit payments and adjustments	(4,344		)		(2,977		)		(374		)		(24		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	92,219			$	75,276			$	—			$	—
	Funded status at end of year	$	(31,133	)		$	(56,106	)		$	(48,954	)		$	(44,395	)
	-1	For the pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation. For the postretirement benefit plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in AOCI	'
	The following table displays the effect that the unrecognized prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial loss of our plans had on AOCI, as reported in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets:
			Pension Benefits								Postretirement Benefits
	Years Ended December 31		2013				2012				2013				2012
	Amounts recognized in AOCI
	Unrecognized prior service cost		$	—			$	—			$	—			$	—
	Unrecognized actuarial loss		32,162				60,647				13,147				14,596
	Total amounts recognized in AOCI		$	32,162			$	60,647			$	13,147			$	14,596
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The components of the net periodic benefit cost for our pension and postretirement benefit plans are as follows:
		Pension Plan												Postretirement Benefit Plan
	Years Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011				2013				2012			2011
	Net periodic benefit cost
	Service cost	$	6,300			$	5,129			$	3,166			$	3,875			$	3,010		$	1,985
	Interest cost	5,175				5,049				4,761				1,759				1,695			1,590
	Expected return on plan assets	(5,772		)		(5,345		)		(5,288		)		—				—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost	—				8				10				—				(6		)	(32		)
	Amortization of net loss	4,989				4,415				2,368				879				554			224
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	10,692			$	9,256			$	5,017			$	6,513			$	5,253		$	3,767
Projected Benefit Payments	'
	The following table summarizes the expected benefits to be paid from our plans over the next 10 years:
			2014				2015				2016				2017				2018			2019 - 2023
	Pension benefits		$	3,990			$	4,270			$	4,580			$	4,920			$	5,350		$	35,640
	Postretirement benefits		$	1,130			$	1,250			$	1,380			$	1,540			$	1,750		$	13,360

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Tables

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Remaining Stock-Based Compensation Expense	'
	We expect this compensation to be recognized in subsequent years according to the following table, except with respect to awards that are accelerated by the Board of Directors, in which case we will recognize any remaining compensation expense in the period in which the awards are accelerated.
	2014		$	1,228
	2015		994
	2016		569
	2017		423
	2018		58
	Total		$	3,272
Analysis of Award Activity	'
	The analysis below details the award activity for 2013 and the awards outstanding at December 31, 2013, for both of our plans and ad hoc options, which were granted prior to the adoption of the other plans:
	Options	Shares			Weighted-Average Exercise Price				Weighted-Average Remaining Life (in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013	1,242,442			$	27.78
	Granted	233,348			24.41
	Exercised	(168,482	)		19.98
	Forfeited or expired	(19,998	)		31.58
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	1,287,310			$	28.13			5.31		$	4,524
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	803,568			$	31.66			3.91		$	1,425
Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Award Activity	'
	The analysis below details the award activity for the restricted stock awards outstanding at December 31, 2013:
	Restricted stock awards	Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2013	54,338			$	25.01
	Granted	30,489			24.78
	Vested	(24,978	)		30.38
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	59,849			$	22.7
Weighted-average Grant-Date Fair Value Assumptions	'
	The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the options granted under our plans has been estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
	December 31,	2013				2012				2011
	Risk-free interest rate	1.37		%		1.37		%		2.99		%
	Expected volatility	34.32		%		37.06		%		55.47		%
	Expected option life (in years)	7				7				7
	Expected dividends (in dollars)	$	0.69			$	0.6			$	0.6
	Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year (in dollars)	$	6.64			$	5.9			$	8.99
Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable	'
	The following table summarizes information regarding the stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2013:
						Options Outstanding						Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Prices					Number Outstanding (in shares)		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Number Exercisable (in shares)	Weighted-Average Exercise Price
	$	15.01		-	21	331,017		7.04	$	19.88		115,218	$	19.47
	21.01			-	28	317,815		7.88	23.57			70,932	23.5
	28.01			-	35	338,478		3.52	32.74			317,418	32.99
	35.01			-	41	300,000		2.71	36.85			300,000	36.85
	$	15.01		-	41	1,287,310		5.31	$	28.13		803,568	$	31.66
Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Activity in Stock Award Plans	'
	The activity in the 2008 Stock Plan is displayed in the following table:
	Authorized Shares Available for Future Award Grants	Year Ended December 31, 2013			From Inception to December 31, 2013
	Beginning balance	568,746			1,900,000
	Number of awards granted	(238,672	)		(1,682,496	)
	Number of awards forfeited or expired	23,575			136,145
	Ending balance	353,649			353,649
	Number of option awards exercised	154,926			381,768
	Number of unrestricted stock awards granted	935			4,555
	Number of restricted stock awards vested	18,576			18,576
Director Plan - 2005 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Activity in Stock Award Plans	'
	The activity in the Director Plan is displayed in the following table:
	Authorized Shares Available for Future Award Grants	Year Ended December 31, 2013			From Inception to December 31, 2013
	Beginning balance	130,012			300,000
	Number of awards granted	(26,100	)		(202,091	)
	Number of awards forfeited or expired	—			6,003
	Ending balance	103,912			103,912
	Number of option awards exercised	3,156			3,156
	Number of restricted stock awards vested	6,402			6,402

SEGMENT_INFORMATION_Tables

SEGMENT INFORMATION (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Premiums Earned by Segments	'
	The following table sets forth our net premiums earned by segment before intersegment eliminations:
	Years Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Property and Casualty Insurance Segment
	Net premiums earned
	Fire and allied lines	$	208,030		$	173,249		$	153,839
	Other liability	199,548			197,842			159,977
	Automobile	169,211			155,572			133,974
	Workers’ compensation	81,616			68,643			54,404
	Fidelity and surety	18,746			17,713			16,665
	Reinsurance assumed	14,406			14,473			13,261
	Other	2,635			1,919			1,651
	Total net premiums earned	$	694,192		$	629,411		$	533,771
	Life Insurance Segment
	Net premiums earned
	Ordinary life (excluding universal life)	$	38,875		$	44,468		$	30,374
	Universal life policy fees	11,871			11,768			10,995
	Accident and health	1,302			1,363			1,472
	Immediate annuities with life contingencies	8,837			8,158			10,276
	Other	261			274			262
	Total net premiums earned	$	61,146		$	66,031		$	53,379
Segment Reporting Information	'
	The following table sets forth certain data for each of our business segments and is reconciled to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Depreciation and amortization expense and property and equipment acquisitions for 2013, 2012 and 2011, are reported in the property and casualty insurance segment.
		2013			2012			2011
	Property and Casualty Insurance:
	Revenues:
	Net premiums earned	$	694,192		$	629,411		$	533,771
	Investment income, net of investment expenses	46,279			40,305			35,690
	Net realized investment gains	6,260			3,896			3,066
	Other income	88			316			1,592
	Total revenues before eliminations	$	746,819		$	673,928		$	574,119
	Intersegment eliminations	53			(646		)	(162		)
	Total revenues	$	746,872		$	673,282		$	573,957
	Net income (loss) before income taxes:
	Revenues	$	746,819		$	673,928		$	574,119
	Benefit, losses and expenses	658,645			637,648			598,684
	Total net income (loss) before eliminations	$	88,174		$	36,280		$	(24,565	)
	Intersegment eliminations	545			(199		)	335
	Income (loss) before income taxes	$	88,719		$	36,081		$	(24,230	)
	Income tax expense (benefit)	21,263			2,569			(16,591		)
	Net income (loss)	$	67,456		$	33,512		$	(7,639	)
	Assets
	Total segment	$	2,218,464		$	2,149,356		$	2,117,352
	Intersegment eliminations	(223,395		)	(244,041		)	(252,205		)
	Total assets	$	1,995,069		$	1,905,315		$	1,865,147
	Life Insurance:
	Revenues:
	Net premiums earned	$	61,146		$	66,031		$	53,379
	Investment income, net of investment expenses	66,467			70,026			73,977
	Net realized investment gains	2,434			3,777			3,647
	Other income	614			575			699
	Total revenues before eliminations	$	130,661		$	140,409		$	131,702
	Intersegment eliminations	(491		)	(448		)	(651		)
	Total revenues	$	130,170		$	139,961		$	131,051
	Net income before income taxes:
	Revenues	$	130,661		$	140,409		$	131,702
	Benefit, losses and expenses	117,159			130,135			119,712
	Total net income before eliminations	$	13,502		$	10,274		$	11,990
	Intersegment eliminations	(319		)	(281		)	(475		)
	Income before income taxes	$	13,183		$	9,993		$	11,515
	Income tax expense	4,499			3,293			3,865
	Net income	$	8,684		$	6,700		$	7,650
	Assets	$	1,725,603		$	1,789,338		$	1,753,777
	Consolidated Totals:
	Total revenues	$	877,042		$	813,243		$	705,008
	Total net income	$	76,140		$	40,212		$	11
	Total assets	$	3,720,672		$	3,694,653		$	3,618,924

QUARTERLY_SUPPLEMENTARY_FINANC1

QUARTERLY SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	'
	The following table sets forth our selected unaudited quarterly financial information:
	(In Thousands Except Share Data)
	Quarters	First		Second		Third		Fourth			Total
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Total revenues	$	205,305	$	219,719	$	223,024	$	228,994		$	877,042
	Income before income taxes	29,850		20,318		14,395		37,339			101,902
	Net income	$	22,393	$	15,496	$	11,725	$	26,526		$	76,140
	Basic earnings per share (1)	$	0.89	$	0.61	$	0.46	$	1.04		$	3.01
	Diluted earnings per share (1)	0.88		0.61		0.45		1.04			2.98
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Total revenues	$	193,699	$	199,646	$	206,581	$	213,317		$	813,243
	Income (loss) before income taxes	24,876		19,177		10,020		(7,999		)	46,074
	Net income (loss)	$	19,184	$	14,716	$	8,730	$	(2,418	)	$	40,212
	Basic earnings (loss) per share (1)	$	0.75	$	0.58	$	0.34	$	(0.10	)	$	1.58
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share (1)	0.75		0.58		0.34		(0.10		)	1.58
	-1	The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

EARNINGS_PER_COMMON_SHARE_Tabl

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share	'
	The components of basic and diluted earnings per share were as follows:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	(In Thousands Except Per Share Data)	Basic		Diluted		Basic		Diluted		Basic		Diluted
	Net income	$	76,140	$	76,140	$	40,212	$	40,212	$	11	$	11
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding	25,325,695		25,325,695		25,447,918		25,447,918		25,878,535		25,878,535
	Add dilutive effect of restricted stock awards	—		59,849		—		54,338		—		50,206
	Add dilutive effect of stock options	—		145,831		—		2,270		—		30,108
	Weighted-average common shares	25,325,695		25,531,375		25,447,918		25,504,526		25,878,535		25,958,849
	Earnings per common share	$	3.01	$	2.98	$	1.58	$	1.58	$	—	$	—
	Awards excluded from diluted calculation(1)	—		638,478		—		901,008		—		989,047
	-1	Outstanding awards that are not “in-the-money” are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because the effect of including them would have been anti-dilutive.

LEASE_COMMITMENTS_Tables

LEASE COMMITMENTS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule	'
	At December 31, 2013, our future minimum rental payments are as follows:
	2014	$	7,340
	2015	4,829
	2016	4,099
	2017	3,186
	2018	1,504
	Thereafter	3,219
	Total	$	24,177

INTANGIBLE_ASSETS_Tables

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	'
	Our major classes of intangible assets are presented in the following table:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
	Agency relationships	$	10,338		$	10,338
	Accumulated amortization - agency relationships	(3,017		)	(2,380		)
		$	7,321		$	7,958
	Software	$	3,260		$	3,260
	Accumulated amortization - software	(3,260		)	(2,853		)
		$	—		$	407
	Trade names	$	1,978		$	1,978
	Accumulated amortization - trade names	(363		)	(231		)
		$	1,615		$	1,747
	Favorable contract	$	286		$	286
	Accumulated amortization - favorable contract	(286		)	(250		)
		$	—		$	36
	State insurance licenses (1)	$	3,020		$	3,020
	Net intangible assets	$	11,956		$	13,168
	(1) The intangible asset for licenses has an indefinite life and therefore is not amortized.
Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets Useful Lives By Major Class	'
	The estimated useful lives assigned to our major classes of amortizable intangible assets are as follows:
		Useful Life
	Agency relationships	Fifteen years
	Software	Two years
	Trade names	Fifteen years
	Favorable contract	Two years
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	'
	Our estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years is as follows:
	2014	$	769
	2015	769
	2016	769
	2017	769
	2018	719

ACCUMULATED_OTHER_COMPREHENSIV1

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	The following table shows the changes in the components of our accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
					Liability for
		Net unrealized			underfunded
		appreciation			employee
		on investments			benefit costs			Total
	Balance as of January 1, 2011	$	102,649		$	(25,671	)	$	76,978
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	26,517			(17,790		)	8,727
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(4,790		)	1,671			(3,119		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	124,376		$	(41,790	)	$	82,586
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	22,386			(10,349		)	12,037
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(2,666		)	3,231			565
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	144,096		$	(48,908	)	$	95,188
	Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(23,068		)	15,643			(7,425		)
	Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	(4,427		)	3,814			(613		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	116,601		$	(29,451	)	$	87,150

BUSINESS_COMBINATIONS_Tables

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'
	The following is a summary of the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed of Mercer Insurance Group at the date of acquisition:
		28-Mar-11
	Assets
	Available-for-sale fixed maturity securities	$	401,548
	Equity securities	10,266
	Short-term investments	400
	Cash and cash equivalents	18,855
	Accrued investment income	3,741
	Premiums receivable	35,822
	Value of business acquired	27,436
	Property and equipment	14,985
	Reinsurance receivables and recoverables	58,193
	Prepaid reinsurance premiums	6,289
	Income taxes receivable	2,657
	Deferred income taxes	2,837
	Goodwill and intangible assets	32,293
	Other assets	11,353
	Total assets	$	626,675
	Liabilities
	Reserves for losses, claims and loss settlement expenses	$	310,647
	Unearned premiums	72,249
	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	33,690
	Debt	3,000
	Trust preferred securities	15,614
	Total liabilities	$	435,200
	Total net assets acquired	$	191,475
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information	'
	The following is a summary of our unaudited pro forma historical results as if Mercer Insurance Group had been acquired on January 1, 2011:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2011
	Revenue	$	741,833
	Net income (1)	8,139
	Basic earnings per share	0.31
	Diluted earnings per share	0.31
	(1) The year ended December 31, 2011 excludes transaction related expenses incurred that reduced net income by $11.9 million.

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT3

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Feb. 01, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Feb. 01, 2012

Mar. 28, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 28, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Accounting Standards Update 2010-26 [Member]

United Fire & Casualty Company [Member]

United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]

United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]

United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]

Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]

Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]

Life Insurance [Member]

Life Insurance [Member]

Life Insurance [Member]

Building [Member]

Building [Member]

Land [Member]

Land [Member]

Furniture and Fixtures [Member]

Furniture and Fixtures [Member]

Computer Equipment and Software [Member]

Computer Equipment and Software [Member]

Airplane [Member]

Airplane [Member]

Febuary 2012 Reorganization [Member]

Febuary 2012 Reorganization [Member]

Payments to the Former Executive Officers [Member]

states

states

Item Effected [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of states in which we are licensed as insurer

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43

'

'

37

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combinations [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of outstanding common stock acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total consideration of business combination

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$191,475,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term debt used for acquisition funding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

79,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Transaction costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,318,000

11,900,000

5,540,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock, par value per share (in usd per share)

$0.00

'

'

'

$0.00

'

'

'

$0.00

$0.00

'

'

'

'

$3.33

$0.00

$0.00

$0.00

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of the gains and profits from the Lloyds plan available to United Fire & Indemnity Company

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Traditional life insurance, interest rate assumptions, lower range

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Traditional life insurance, interest rate assumptions, upper range

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Securities on deposit as required by law

1,620,505,000

'

'

'

1,736,466,000

'

'

'

1,620,505,000

1,736,466,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other-than-temporary impairment charges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

139,000

4,000

395,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payment for income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,628,000

11,920,000

570,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Federal tax refund received

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,744,000

15,798,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest payment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

961,000

1,926,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase (decrease) in DAC asset

3,407,000

'

'

'

-38,695,000

'

'

'

3,407,000

-38,695,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income Statement Impact of Updated Accounting Guidance on a Prospective Basis [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional expense on pretax basis

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

775,140,000

767,169,000

717,723,000

'

'

10,291,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase to other underwriting expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

89,861,000

81,125,000

58,757,000

'

'

25,528,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Decrease to amortization of deferred policy acquisition recoverability

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-153,677,000

-140,161,000

-127,413,000

'

'

15,237,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-147,175,000

-132,771,000

-118,189,000

-6,502,000

-7,390,000

-9,224,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Decrease to net income

-26,526,000

-11,725,000

-15,496,000

-22,393,000

2,418,000

-8,730,000

-14,716,000

-19,184,000

-76,140,000

-40,212,000

-11,000

'

'

6,689,000

'

-76,140,000

-40,212,000

[1],[2]

'

'

14,650,000

'

-67,456,000

-33,512,000

7,639,000

-8,684,000

-6,700,000

-7,650,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Decrease to net income per share (in usd per share)

($1.04)

[3]

($0.46)

($0.61)

[3]

($0.89)

[3]

$0.10

[3]

($0.34)

[3]

($0.58)

[3]

($0.75)

[3]

($3.01)

($1.58)

[3]

$0

'

'

$0.26

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property and equipment

47,218,000

'

'

'

43,090,000

'

'

'

47,218,000

43,090,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

29,072,000

25,186,000

7,163,000

6,879,000

2,707,000

1,024,000

3,197,000

3,076,000

5,079,000

6,925,000

Depreciation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,391,000

5,440,000

3,661,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Useful life of intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2 years

'15 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,212,000

$2,539,000

$1,922,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

The Condensed Statement of Cash Flows includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

[2]

The Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

[3]

The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT4

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Movement Analysis of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Recorded asset at beginning of year	$105,300	$106,654	$87,524
Underwriting costs deferred	156,367	145,301	141,468
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	-153,677	-140,161	-127,413
Value of business acquired	0	0	27,436
Amortization of value of business acquired	0	-1,673	-25,763
Ending unamortized deferred policy acquisition costs	107,990	110,121	103,252
Change in shadow deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102	-4,821	3,402
Recorded asset at end of year	150,092	105,300	106,654
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Movement Analysis of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Recorded asset at beginning of year	64,947	60,668	44,681
Underwriting costs deferred	149,891	138,723	132,503
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	-147,175	-132,771	-118,189
Value of business acquired	0	0	27,436
Amortization of value of business acquired	0	-1,673	-25,763
Recorded asset at end of year	67,663	64,947	60,668
Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Movement Analysis of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Recorded asset at beginning of year	40,353	45,986	42,843
Underwriting costs deferred	6,476	6,578	8,965
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	-6,502	-7,390	-9,224
Ending unamortized deferred policy acquisition costs	40,327	45,174	42,584
Change in shadow deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102	-4,821	3,402
Recorded asset at end of year	$82,429	$40,353	$45,986

SUMMARY_OF_SIGNIFICANT_ACCOUNT5

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Useful Life) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Computer Equipment [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Useful Life	'3 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Useful Life	'7 years
Real Estate [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Useful Life	'7 years
Real Estate [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Useful Life	'39 years
Software [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Useful Life	'3 years

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Fair_Va

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Fair Value of Investments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	$656	$1,655
Fair Value	669	1,681
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	2,804,514	2,724,692
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	235,940	265,081
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	59,830	4,568
Fair Value	2,980,624	2,985,205
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	656	1,655
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	13	26
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Fair Value	669	1,681
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	2,733,557	2,657,800
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	77,082	154,146
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	59,383	3,868
Fair Value	2,751,256	2,808,078
U.S. Treasury [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	33,612	37,887
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	423	939
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	140	5
Fair Value	33,895	38,821
U.S. Government Agency [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	287,988	45,566
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	258	429
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	18,663	67
Fair Value	269,583	45,928
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	250	1,185
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	4	11
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Fair Value	254	1,196
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	690,461	739,752
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	34,151	55,572
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	10,705	819
Fair Value	713,907	794,505
Foreign Bonds [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	167,390	207,359
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	5,863	11,863
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	397	62
Fair Value	172,856	219,160
Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	213,479	232,550
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	6,873	15,208
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,776	32
Fair Value	218,576	247,726
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	'	200
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	'	0
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	0
Fair Value	'	200
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	157,620	169,973
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	4,398	9,758
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,008	0
Fair Value	161,010	179,731
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	234,221	280,185
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	5,626	13,690
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	2,819	212
Fair Value	237,028	293,663
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	165,565	193,313
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	3,770	9,813
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,421	151
Fair Value	167,914	202,975
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	91,008	115,654
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	3,138	7,111
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,200	80
Fair Value	92,946	122,685
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	121,746	123,660
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	2,541	6,909
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	3,321	198
Fair Value	120,966	130,371
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	200	'
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	0	'
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	'
Fair Value	200	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	234,739	271,061
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	7,735	13,858
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	723	1,059
Fair Value	241,751	283,860
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	206	256
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	9	15
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Fair Value	215	271
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	22,034	27,940
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	323	888
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	291	21
Fair Value	22,066	28,807
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	'	14
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	'	0
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	0
Fair Value	'	14
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	309,975	208,042
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	1,707	7,702
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	16,919	1,160
Fair Value	294,763	214,584
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	3,719	4,480
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	276	406
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Fair Value	3,995	4,886
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	'	378
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	'	0
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	2
Fair Value	'	376
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	70,957	66,892
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	158,858	110,935
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	447	700
Fair Value	229,368	177,127
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	7,231	7,231
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	9,068	7,268
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	27	83
Fair Value	16,272	14,416
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	5,094	5,094
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	9,269	6,903
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Fair Value	14,363	11,997
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	13,308	13,031
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	32,823	19,827
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	32	174
Fair Value	46,099	32,684
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	10,363	10,394
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	10,895	8,535
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	50
Fair Value	21,258	18,879
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	7,920	7,920
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	17,078	10,286
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	125
Fair Value	24,998	18,081
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	6,204	5,367
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	7,183	5,155
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	83	95
Fair Value	13,304	10,427
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	15,853	15,701
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	72,537	52,936
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	128	145
Fair Value	88,262	68,492
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	4,984	2,154
Gross Unrealized Appreciation	5	25
Gross Unrealized Depreciation	177	28
Fair Value	$4,812	$2,151

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Maturit

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Maturities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	$656	$1,655
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	669	1,681
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	2,804,514	2,724,692
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	2,980,624	2,985,205
Trading, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	9,940	13,353
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	3,719	4,480
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	3,995	4,886
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	206	256
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	215	271
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	22,034	27,940
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	22,066	28,807
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	'	14
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	'	14
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Amortized Cost	309,975	208,042
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Fair Value	294,763	214,584
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Due in one year or less	135	'
Due after one year through five years	315	'
Due after five years through 10 years	0	'
Due after 10 years	0	'
Amortized Cost	656	'
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Due in one year or less	136	'
Due after one year through five years	318	'
Due after five years through 10 years	0	'
Due after 10 years	0	'
Fair Value	669	'
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Due in one year or less	231,060	'
Due after one year through five years	950,084	'
Due after five years through 10 years	848,931	'
Due after 10 years	367,754	'
Amortized Cost	2,733,557	'
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Due in one year or less	234,922	'
Due after one year through five years	996,862	'
Due after five years through 10 years	855,156	'
Due after 10 years	343,492	'
Fair Value	2,751,256	'
Trading, Amortized Cost	'	'
Due in one year or less	1,350	'
Due after one year through five years	3,762	'
Due after five years through 10 years	0	'
Due after 10 years	2,937	'
Amortized Cost	8,049	'
Trading, Fair Value	'	'
Due in one year or less	1,359	'
Due after one year through five years	5,147	'
Due after five years through 10 years	0	'
Due after 10 years	3,434	'
Fair Value	9,940	'
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Asset-Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	0	'
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	0	'
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	3,719	'
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	3,995	'
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	206	'
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	215	'
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	22,034	'
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	22,066	'
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]	'	'
Held-To-Maturity, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	0	'
Held-To-Maturity, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	0	'
Available-For-Sale, Amortized Cost	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	309,975	'
Available-For-Sale, Fair Value	'	'
Not categorized by contractual maturity	$294,763	'

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Net_Rea

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Net Realized Investment Gains and Losses) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$8,695	$5,453	$6,440
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]	'	'	'
Proceeds from sales	23,007	20,324	39,496
Gross realized gains	451	513	1,144
Gross realized losses	0	-37	-1,562
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	1	12	8
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	3,211	3,408	4,776
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Trading Securities, Change in Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	1,183	683	-539
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Trading Securities, Sales [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	788	406	-326
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Other-than-temporary-impairment Charges [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	-139	0	-395
Equity Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	3,739	698	2,988
Equity Securities [Member] | Trading Securities, Change in Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	-126	250	-4
Equity Securities [Member] | Trading Securities, Sales [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	38	0	0
Equity Securities [Member] | Other-than-temporary-impairment Charges [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	0	-4	0
Other Long-term Investments [Member]	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$0	$0	($68)

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Net_Inv

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Net Investment Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Other	$1,632		$825		$969
Total investment income	118,123		118,069		116,353
Less investment expense	5,324		6,164		6,859
Net Investment income	112,799		111,905		109,494
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Interest income	101,950		108,517		109,467
Equity Securities [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Dividend income	5,806		5,354		4,628
Other Long-term Investments [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Interest income	1,194		232		224
Other Long-term Investments [Member] | Change in Value [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Other	7,030	[1]	2,562	[1]	-137	[1]
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Interest income	266		279		285
Short-term Investments [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Interest income	6		10		4
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]	'		'		'
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]	'		'		'
Interest income	$239		$290		$913
[1]	Represents the change in value of our interests in limited liability partnerships that are recorded on the equity method of accounting.

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Unreali

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Available-for-sale fixed maturities	($132,579)	$15,816	$34,699
Equity securities	48,176	19,339	-4,675
Deferred policy acquisition costs	42,102	-4,821	3,402
Income tax effect	14,806	-10,614	-11,699
Total change in net unrealized investment appreciation, net of tax	($27,495)	$19,720	$21,727

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Investm

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Investments in Unrealized Loss Position) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	issues	issues
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	528	107
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	$922,128	$182,504
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	48,023	2,568
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	88	66
12 months or longer, Fair Value	110,914	37,565
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	11,807	2,000
Total, Fair Value	1,033,042	220,069
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	59,830	4,568
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	524	91
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	918,634	181,198
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	47,906	2,386
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	71	34
12 months or longer, Fair Value	108,961	32,783
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	11,477	1,482
Total, Fair Value	1,027,595	213,981
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	59,383	3,868
U.S. Treasury [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	10	2
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	9,196	1,724
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	140	5
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	0	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	0	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Total, Fair Value	9,196	1,724
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	140	5
U.S. Government Agency [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	101	5
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	256,203	17,654
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	18,019	67
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	2	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	4,356	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	644	0
Total, Fair Value	260,559	17,654
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	18,663	67
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	136	31
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	97,950	41,775
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	7,423	819
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	29	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	29,670	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	3,282	0
Total, Fair Value	127,620	41,775
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	10,705	819
Foreign Bonds [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	10	1
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	20,832	3,323
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	397	48
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	0	1
12 months or longer, Fair Value	0	558
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	14
Total, Fair Value	20,832	3,881
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	397	62
Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	31	2
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	61,582	3,155
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,776	32
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	0	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	0	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	0
Total, Fair Value	61,582	3,155
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,776	32
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	9	'
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	23,735	'
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,008	'
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	0	'
12 months or longer, Fair Value	0	'
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	'
Total, Fair Value	23,735	'
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,008	'
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	34	4
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	77,788	12,194
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	2,819	109
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	0	1
12 months or longer, Fair Value	0	2,897
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	103
Total, Fair Value	77,788	15,091
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	2,819	212
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	31	0
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	58,833	0
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,276	0
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	6	7
12 months or longer, Fair Value	3,218	4,606
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	145	151
Total, Fair Value	62,051	4,606
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,421	151
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	10	3
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	25,888	7,416
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	942	80
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	2	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	4,427	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	258	0
Total, Fair Value	30,315	7,416
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,200	80
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	18	5
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	58,105	13,402
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	2,147	198
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	2	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	7,468	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1,174	0
Total, Fair Value	65,573	13,402
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	3,321	198
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	7	2
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	15,191	1,005
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	720	1
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	1	24
12 months or longer, Fair Value	1,525	24,693
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	3	1,058
Total, Fair Value	16,716	25,698
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	723	1,059
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	16	7
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	4,476	4,472
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	177	21
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	6	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	3,113	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	114	0
Total, Fair Value	7,589	4,472
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	291	21
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	111	27
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	208,855	74,702
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	11,062	1,004
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	23	1
12 months or longer, Fair Value	55,184	29
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	5,857	156
Total, Fair Value	264,039	74,731
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	16,919	1,160
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	4	16
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	3,494	1,306
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	117	182
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	17	32
12 months or longer, Fair Value	1,953	4,782
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	330	518
Total, Fair Value	5,447	6,088
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	447	700
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	'	2
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	'	376
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	2
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	'	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	'	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	0
Total, Fair Value	'	376
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	2
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	0	3
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	0	225
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	83
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	3	0
12 months or longer, Fair Value	281	0
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	27	0
Total, Fair Value	281	225
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	27	83
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	1	4
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	1	482
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	1	52
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	2	9
12 months or longer, Fair Value	81	621
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	31	122
Total, Fair Value	82	1,103
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	32	174
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	'	2
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	'	280
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	19
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	'	4
12 months or longer, Fair Value	'	372
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	31
Total, Fair Value	'	652
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	50
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	'	1
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	'	31
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	2
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	'	3
12 months or longer, Fair Value	'	896
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	123
Total, Fair Value	'	927
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	'	125
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	0	5
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	0	241
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	7
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	6	7
12 months or longer, Fair Value	206	581
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	83	88
Total, Fair Value	206	822
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	83	95
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	0	1
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	0	47
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	0	19
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	4	7
12 months or longer, Fair Value	215	1,109
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	128	126
Total, Fair Value	215	1,156
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	128	145
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE	'	'
Less than 12 months, Number of Issues	3	0
Less than 12 months, Fair Value	3,493	0
Less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	116	0
12 months or longer, Number of Issues	2	2
12 months or longer, Fair Value	1,170	1,203
12 months or longer, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	61	28
Total, Fair Value	4,663	1,203
Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	$177	$28

SUMMARY_OF_INVESTMENTS_Narrati

SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Trading securities	$12,427,000	$15,371,000	'
Remaining potential off-balance sheet contractual obligation	1,050,000	'	'
Other-than-temporary impairment charges	139,000	4,000	395,000
Net realized investment gains (losses)	8,695,000	5,453,000	6,440,000
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Other-than-temporary impairment charges	0	'	0
Equity Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Largest unrealized loss greater than 12 months on an individual security	58,000	'	'
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'	'	'
Other-than-temporary impairment charges	139,000	0	395,000
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Other-than-temporary-impairment Charges [Member]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	-139,000	0	-395,000
Equity Securities [Member] | Other-than-temporary-impairment Charges [Member]	'	'	'
Net realized investment gains (losses)	$0	($4,000)	$0

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_INSTRU2

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments	'		'
Held-to-maturity fixed maturities	$669		$1,681
Available-for-sale securities	2,980,624		2,985,205
Trading securities	12,427		15,371
Fair Value [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Mortgage loans	4,724		5,037
Policy loans	6,261		6,671
Other long-term investments	44,946		30,028
Short-term investments	800		800
Cash and cash equivalents	92,193		107,466
Accrued investment income	27,923		30,375
Policy reserves	'		'
Annuity (accumulations)	941,636	[1]	1,043,866	[1]
Annuity (benefit payments)	140,276		139,213
Fair Value [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Held-to-maturity fixed maturities	669		1,681
Available-for-sale securities	2,751,256		2,808,078
Trading securities	9,940		13,353
Fair Value [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Available-for-sale securities	229,368		177,127
Trading securities	2,487		2,018
Carrying Value [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Mortgage loans	4,423		4,633
Policy loans	6,261		6,671
Other long-term investments	44,946		30,028
Short-term investments	800		800
Cash and cash equivalents	92,193		107,466
Accrued investment income	27,923		30,375
Policy reserves	'		'
Annuity (accumulations)	925,832	[1]	983,579	[1]
Annuity (benefit payments)	94,805		93,701
Carrying Value [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Held-to-maturity fixed maturities	656		1,655
Available-for-sale securities	2,751,256		2,808,078
Trading securities	9,940		13,353
Carrying Value [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'		'
Investments	'		'
Available-for-sale securities	229,368		177,127
Trading securities	$2,487		$2,018
[1]	Annuity accumulations represent deferred annuity contracts that are currently earning interest.

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_INSTRU3

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	$2,980,624	$2,985,205
Trading Securities	12,427	15,371
Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,980,624	2,985,205
Trading Securities	12,427	15,371
Short- Term Investments	800	800
Money Market Accounts	37,811	45,613
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	3,031,662	3,046,989
Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	222,411	173,540
Trading Securities	4,872	5,601
Short- Term Investments	800	800
Money Market Accounts	37,811	45,613
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	265,894	225,554
Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,738,225	2,788,125
Trading Securities	7,555	9,770
Short- Term Investments	0	0
Money Market Accounts	0	0
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	2,745,780	2,797,895
Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	19,988	23,540
Trading Securities	0	0
Short- Term Investments	0	0
Money Market Accounts	0	0
Total Assets Measured at Fair Value	19,988	23,540
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,751,256	2,808,078
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,751,256	2,808,078
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	376
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,735,049	2,787,798
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	16,207	19,904
U.S. Treasury [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	33,895	38,821
U.S. Treasury [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	33,895	38,821
U.S. Treasury [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
U.S. Treasury [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	33,895	38,821
U.S. Treasury [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
U.S. Government Agency [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	269,583	45,928
U.S. Government Agency [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	269,583	45,928
U.S. Government Agency [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
U.S. Government Agency [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	269,583	45,928
U.S. Government Agency [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	713,907	794,505
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	713,907	794,505
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	713,209	793,755
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	698	750
Foreign Bonds [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	172,856	219,160
Foreign Bonds [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	172,856	219,160
Trading Securities	1,253	1,379
Foreign Bonds [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Foreign Bonds [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	172,856	218,602
Trading Securities	1,253	1,379
Foreign Bonds [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	558
Trading Securities	0	0
Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	218,576	247,726
Public Utilities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	218,576	247,726
Public Utilities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Public Utilities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	218,576	247,726
Public Utilities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	161,010	179,731
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	161,010	179,731
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	161,010	179,731
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	237,028	293,663
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	237,028	293,663
Trading Securities	1,122	1,299
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	237,028	290,766
Trading Securities	1,122	1,299
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	2,897
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	167,914	202,975
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	167,914	202,975
Trading Securities	106	1,532
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	166,460	201,633
Trading Securities	106	1,532
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	1,454	1,342
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	92,946	122,685
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	92,946	122,685
Trading Securities	1,154	1,824
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	92,946	122,685
Trading Securities	1,154	1,824
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	120,966	130,371
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	120,966	130,371
Trading Securities	2,054	2,250
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	120,966	130,371
Trading Securities	2,054	2,250
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	241,751	283,860
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	241,751	283,860
Trading Securities	1,866	1,486
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	229,725	271,991
Trading Securities	1,866	1,486
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	12,026	11,869
Trading Securities	0	0
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	22,066	28,807
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	22,066	28,807
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	22,066	28,807
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	294,763	214,584
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	294,763	214,584
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	294,763	214,584
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,995	4,886
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,995	4,886
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	1,966	2,398
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	2,029	2,488
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	'	376
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	'	376
Trading Securities	2,385	3,583
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	'	376
Trading Securities	2,385	3,583
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	'	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	'	0
Trading Securities	0	0
Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	229,368	177,127
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	229,368	177,127
Equity Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	222,411	173,164
Equity Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,176	327
Equity Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,781	3,636
Equity Securities [Member] | Energy [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	563	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	563	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	39	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	39	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	332	303
Equity Securities [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	332	303
Equity Securities [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Equity Securities [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Trading Securities	0	'
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	16,272	14,416
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	16,272	14,416
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	16,272	14,416
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utilities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	14,363	11,997
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	14,363	11,997
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	14,363	11,997
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Energy [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	46,099	32,684
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	46,099	32,684
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	46,083	32,658
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	16	26
Common Stock [Member] | Industrials [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	21,258	18,879
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	21,258	18,879
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	21,258	18,879
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Consumer Goods and Services [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	24,998	18,081
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	24,998	18,081
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	24,998	18,081
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Health Care [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	13,304	10,427
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	13,304	10,427
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	13,304	10,427
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Technology, Media and Telecommunications [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	88,262	68,492
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	88,262	68,492
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	84,419	64,800
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	62	56
Common Stock [Member] | Financial Services [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,781	3,636
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	4,812	2,151
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Fair Value [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	4,812	2,151
Trading Securities	1,553	1,715
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	1,714	1,906
Trading Securities	1,553	1,715
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	3,098	245
Trading Securities	0	'
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Trading Securities	$0	'

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_INSTRU4

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Level 3 Securities) (Details) (Recurring [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	$23,540		$25,842
Realized gains	35	[1]	646	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	1,293	[1]	-381	[1]
Purchases	278		184
Disposals	-5,158		-5,062
Transfers in	'		2,359
Transfers out	'		-48
Ending Balance	19,988		23,540
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	750		880
Realized gains	0	[1]	0	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	83	[1]	0	[1]
Purchases	0		0
Disposals	-135		-130
Transfers in	'		0
Transfers out	'		0
Ending Balance	698		750
Foreign Bonds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	558		836
Realized gains	35	[1]	0	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	14	[1]	7	[1]
Purchases	0		0
Disposals	-607		-285
Transfers in	'		0
Transfers out	'		0
Ending Balance	0		558
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	16,108		20,285
Realized gains	0	[1]	646	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	1,277	[1]	-352	[1]
Purchases	105		5
Disposals	-4,010		-4,476
Transfers in	'		0
Transfers out	'		0
Ending Balance	13,480		16,108
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	2,488		315
Realized gains	0	[1]	0	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	-53	[1]	-13	[1]
Purchases	0		0
Disposals	-406		-121
Transfers in	'		2,307
Transfers out	'		0
Ending Balance	2,029		2,488
Equities [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'		'
Beginning Balance	3,636		3,526
Realized gains	0	[1]	0	[1]
Unrealized gains (losses)	-28	[1]	-23	[1]
Purchases	173		179
Disposals	0		-50
Transfers in	'		52
Transfers out	'		-48
Ending Balance	$3,781		$3,636
[1]	Realized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of earnings whereas unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as a component of comprehensive income.

REINSURANCE_Ceded_and_Assumed_

REINSURANCE (Ceded and Assumed Reinsurance) (Details) (Property and Casualty Insurance [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'		'		'
Reinsurance [Line Items]	'		'		'
Ceded premiums written	$50,711		$44,240		$43,921
Ceded premiums earned	50,514		47,467		45,604
Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded	-8,552	[1]	5,525	[1]	39,335	[1]
Assumed premiums written	18,938		17,181		14,954
Assumed premiums earned	18,485		16,889		14,869
Loss and loss settlement expenses assumed	$8,268		$16,873		$24,151
[1]	In 2013, a reduction in our direct IBNR reserves caused a corresponding reduction in ceded IBNR reserves. This factor, coupled with a lack of significant large losses exceeding our reinsurance retentions resulted in negative loss and loss settlement expenses ceded for the year.

REINSURANCE_Reinsurance_Progra

REINSURANCE (Reinsurance Programs) (Details) (Property and Casualty Insurance [Member], USD $)

12 Months Ended

7 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 31, 2011

Jul. 31, 2011

Jul. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Casualty Excess of Loss [Member]

Casualty Excess of Loss [Member]

Casualty Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Excess of Loss [Member]

Surety Excess of Loss [Member]

Surety Excess of Loss [Member]

Surety Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Catastrophe [Member]

Property Catastrophe [Member]

Property Catastrophe [Member]

Boiler and Machinery [Member]

Boiler and Machinery [Member]

Boiler and Machinery [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Casualty Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Excess of Loss [Member]

Umbrella Excess of Loss [Member]

Surety Excess of Loss [Member]

Surety Excess of Loss [Member]

Property Catastrophe [Member]

Reinsurance [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stated Retention

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$2,000,000

$1,500,000

$1,500,000

$1,500,000

$20,000,000

$20,000,000

$20,000,000

'

'

'

$1,000,000

[1]

$1,000,000

[1]

$1,000,000

[1]

'

$500,000

$5,000,000

[2]

Limits

40,000,000

40,000,000

40,000,000

15,000,000

15,000,000

15,000,000

28,000,000

28,000,000

28,000,000

200,000,000

200,000,000

200,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

5,000,000

[1]

10,000,000

[1]

11,000,000

[1]

'

4,500,000

55,000,000

[2]

Percentage of Coverage

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

91.00%

91.00%

91.00%

95.00%

95.00%

95.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

[1]

100.00%

[1]

'

'

90.00%

100.00%

[2]

Reinsurance Coverage Amount

38,000,000

38,000,000

38,000,000

13,000,000

13,000,000

13,000,000

26,500,000

26,500,000

26,500,000

180,000,000

180,000,000

180,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

50,000,000

4,000,000

[1]

9,000,000

[1]

'

'

4,000,000

50,000,000

[2]

Percentage of Coverage, Part I

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

75.00%

[1]

'

'

'

Coverage Amount, Part I

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

[1]

'

'

'

Percentage of Coverage, Part II

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

[1]

'

'

'

Coverage Amount, Part II

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,000,000

[1]

'

'

'

Deductible

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$500,000

'

'

[1]

On August 1, 2011, Mercer Insurance Groupbs reinsurance retention and limits were changed to match those of the Company.

[2]

On January 1, 2012, Mercer Insurance Groupbs catastrophe reinsurance programs were changed to match those of the Company.

REINSURANCE_Life_Insurance_Seg

REINSURANCE (Life Insurance Segment) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reinsurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Ceded insurance in-force	$1,112,688	$1,083,410	$974,556
Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Reinsurance [Line Items]	'	'	'
Ceded insurance in-force	1,112,688	1,083,410	974,556
Ceded premiums earned	2,792	2,621	2,318
Loss and loss settlement expenses ceded	$1,971	$2,435	$3,786

REINSURANCE_Narratives_Details

REINSURANCE (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
			Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	Life Insurance [Member]	Life Insurance [Member]	Life Insurance [Member]	Life Insurance [Member]	Life Insurance [Member]
					Casualty Excess and Property Excess [Member]	insurance_agencies	Top Five Reinsurers [Member]	Individual Insurance Policies [Member]	Group Insurance Policies [Member]	Catastrophe [Member]
Reinsurance [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Reinsurance recoverables	$87,451,000	$114,399,000	$6,090,000	$4,669,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Aggregate annual deductible	'	'	'	'	3,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Stated retention	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,000	'	1,000,000
Percentage of coverage	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	100.00%	50.00%	'
Reinsurance coverage amount	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$250,000	'	$5,000,000
Percentage of insurance in force	'	'	'	'	'	'	99.00%	'	'	'
Number of reinsurers ceded approximately 99% of ceded life insurance in force	'	'	'	'	'	5	'	'	'	'

RESERVES_FOR_LOSS_AND_LOSS_SET2

RESERVES FOR LOSS AND LOSS SETTLEMENT EXPENSES (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at beginning of year	$971,911	$945,051	$603,090	'
Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	75,150	103,870	120,359	39,000
Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at beginning of year	868,041	824,692	564,090	'
Reserves acquired in Mercer Insurance Group acquisition, net	0	0	252,598	'
Beginning balance, as adjusted	868,041	824,692	816,688	'
Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred for claims occurring during	'	'	'	'
Current year	494,841	512,564	468,926	'
Prior years	-57,487	-73,427	-61,095	'
Total incurred	437,354	439,137	407,831	'
Losses and loss settlement expenses incurred for claims occurring during	'	'	'	'
Current year	203,868	201,632	253,175	'
Prior years	216,026	194,156	146,653	'
Total paid	419,894	395,788	399,828	'
Net liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at end of year	885,501	868,041	824,692	'
Ceded loss and loss settlement expenses	-75,150	-103,870	-120,359	-39,000
Gross liability for losses and loss settlement expenses at end of year	$960,651	$971,911	$945,051	'

STATUTORY_REPORTING_CAPITAL_RE2

STATUTORY REPORTING, CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AND DIVIDENDS AND RETAINED EARNINGS RESTRICTIONS (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Payment of cash dividends	$17,484,000		$15,269,000		$15,507,000
United Fire & Casualty Company [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intercompany dividend payments that are eliminated in Consolidated Financial Statements	13,175,000		26,950,000		'
Subsidiaries [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Intercompany dividend payments that are eliminated in Consolidated Financial Statements	26,335,000		19,750,000		11,450,000
United Life [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Statutory Capital and Surplus	1,648,019,000		'		'
Net assets on statutory basis, in excess of the legal reserve requirement	210,938,000		'		'
Amount of dividend payment without approval from the commissioner	5,797,000		'		'
State of Iowa Insurance Department [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Maximum dividend distribution in 2013 without prior approval	53,702,000		'		'
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Maximum borrowing capacity	125,000,000		'		'
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Statutory Capital and Surplus	665,772,000	[1]	585,986,000	[1]	565,843,000	[1]
Statutory Net Income	84,255,000	[1]	34,468,000	[1]	10,529,000	[1]
Life, Accident and Health [Member]	'		'		'
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]	'		'		'
Statutory Capital and Surplus	157,974,000		158,720,000		167,164,000
Statutory Net Income	$5,942,000		$7,420,000		$6,180,000
[1]	Because United Fire & Casualty Company owns United Life Insurance Company, the property and casualty statutory capital and surplus includes life, accident and health statutory capital and surplus, and therefore represents our total consolidated statutory capital and surplus.

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX_Income_Tax_

FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Income Tax) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Current	$19,146	$6,644	($3,517)
Deferred	6,616	-782	-9,209
Federal income tax expense (benefit)	$25,762	$5,862	($12,726)

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX_Reconciliat

FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Computed expected income tax expense (benefit)	$35,666	$16,126	($4,451)
Tax-exempt municipal bond interest income	-7,732	-8,027	-7,908
Nontaxable dividend income	-1,053	-1,004	-859
Valuation allowance reduction	-548	-547	0
Acquisition related expenses	0	42	860
Other, net	-571	-728	-368
Federal income tax expense (benefit)	$25,762	$5,862	($12,726)

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX_Net_Deferre

FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Net Deferred Tax Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax liabilities	'		'
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$47,809		$32,086
Prepaid pension cost	2,556		2,271
Net bond discount accretion	2,069		3,896
Depreciation	2,355		579
Revaluation of investment basis	3,595	[1]	4,345	[1]
Identifiable intangible assets	4,056	[1]	6,615	[1]
Other	7,530		4,414
Gross deferred tax liability	131,573		145,351
Deferred tax assets	'		'
Financial statement reserves in excess of income tax reserves	39,041		40,992
Unearned premium adjustment	23,502		21,578
Net operating loss carryforwards	2,361		3,481
Underfunded benefit plan obligation	15,858		26,335
Postretirement benefits other than pensions	12,342		10,240
Other-than-temporary impairment of investments	5,222		5,715
Contingent ceding commission accrual	3,726	[1]	4,822	[1]
Compensation expense related to stock options	4,062		3,928
AMT credit carryforward	476		7,713
Other	5,429		3,828
Gross deferred tax asset	112,019		128,632
Valuation allowance	-2,361		-2,909
Deferred tax asset	109,658		125,723
Net deferred tax liability	21,915		19,628
Equity Securities [Member]	'		'
Deferred tax liabilities	'		'
Net unrealized appreciation on investment securities	55,402		38,582
All Other Securities [Member]	'		'
Deferred tax liabilities	'		'
Net unrealized appreciation on investment securities	$6,201		$52,563
[1]	Related to our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group

FEDERAL_INCOME_TAX_Narratives_

FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]	'	'
Effective income tax rate	35.00%	'
Valuation allowance	$2,361	$2,909
Realization of NOLs	1,565	'
Alternative minimum tax credit carryforward	476	7,713
Valuation Allowance, Operating Loss Carryforwards [Member]	'	'
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]	'	'
Reduction in valuation allowance	$548	'

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Narratives_D

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Narratives) (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
	persons
Pension Plan [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Eligibility, minimum required service period	'1 year
Eligibility, minimum age	'21 years
Estimated employer contribution in next fiscal year	$6,260
Number of exernal investment managers	7

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Asset_Alloca

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Asset Allocation) (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Fixed Maturity Securities - Corporate Bonds [Member]

Fixed Maturity Securities - Corporate Bonds [Member]

Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]

Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]

Equity Securities [Member]

Equity Securities [Member]

Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member]

Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member]

U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member]

U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member]

Arbitrage Fund [Member]

Arbitrage Fund [Member]

United Life Annuity [Member]

United Life Annuity [Member]

Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]

Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Plan assets

$92,219

$75,276

$65,267

$4,489

$4,830

$1,381

$1,113

$39,481

$41,091

$5,657

$0

$8,763

$0

$5,516

$5,363

$8,101

$7,900

$18,831

$14,979

Actual % of Total

100.00%

100.00%

'

4.90%

6.40%

1.50%

1.50%

42.80%

54.60%

6.10%

0.00%

9.50%

0.00%

6.00%

7.10%

8.80%

10.50%

20.40%

[1]

19.90%

[1]

Target Allocation, Minimum Percentage

'

'

'

0.00%

'

0.00%

'

50.00%

'

0.00%

'

0.00%

'

0.00%

'

5.00%

'

0.00%

'

Target Allocations, Maximum Percentage

'

'

'

25.00%

'

20.00%

'

70.00%

'

40.00%

'

25.00%

'

15.00%

'

15.00%

'

10.00%

'

[1]

Cash and cash equivalents balance as a percent of total plan assets exceeded the target allocation in 2013 as we were in the process of reducing the number of external investment managers and moving funds between managers in early 2014.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Fair_Value_o

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Fair Value of Plan Assets) (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	$92,219	$75,276	$65,267
Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	82,610	65,253	'
Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	58,185	55,060	'
Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	15,662	10,193	'
Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	8,763	0	'
Corporate Bonds [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	4,489	4,830	'
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	4,489	4,830	'
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	4,489	4,830	'
Corporate Bonds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	1,381	1,113	'
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	1,381	1,113	'
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	1,381	1,113	'
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Unaffiliated Common Stock [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	39,481	41,091	'
Unaffiliated Common Stock [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	39,481	41,091	'
Unaffiliated Common Stock [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Unaffiliated Common Stock [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,657	0	'
Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,657	'	'
Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	'	'
Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,657	'	'
Bond and Mortgage Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	'	'
U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	8,763	0	'
U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	8,763	'	'
U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	'	'
U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	'	'
U.S. Property Separate Account Fund [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	8,763	'	'
Arbitrage Fund [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,516	5,363	'
Arbitrage Fund [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,516	5,363	'
Arbitrage Fund [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Arbitrage Fund [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	5,516	5,363	'
Arbitrage Fund [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Money Market Funds [Member] | Fair Value [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	17,323	12,856	'
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	17,323	12,856	'
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	'
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Assets measured at fair value	$0	$0	'

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Change_in_Fa

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Change in Fair Value of Pension Plan Assets) (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified				Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$92,219	$75,276	$65,267	$0
Unrealized gains	'	'	'	763
Purchases	'	'	'	8,000
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$92,219	$75,276	$65,267	$8,763

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Assumptions_

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Assumptions) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations [Abstract]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.84%	4.00%	'
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%	3.50%	'
Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.00%	4.50%	5.50%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.50%	8.00%	8.25%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%	3.75%	4.00%
Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations [Abstract]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.84%	4.00%	'
Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.00%	4.50%	5.50%
Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'	'	'
Effect of 1% increase on the net periodic postretirement health care benefit cost	1,287	'	'
Effect of 1% decrease on the net periodic postretirement health care benefit cost	-1,023	'	'
Effect of 1% increase on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	8,328	'	'
Effect of 1% decrease on the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	-6,782	'	'
Health Care Benefits [Member]	'	'	'
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'	'	'
Health care cost trend rates assumed for next year	7.00%	10.00%	'
Rate to which the health care trend rate is assumed to decline (ultimate trend rate)	4.50%	5.25%	'
Dental Claims [Member]	'	'	'
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'	'	'
Health care cost trend rates assumed for next year	4.00%	5.25%	'

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Obligation_a

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Obligation and Funded Status) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of benefit obligation [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$131,382	[1]	$111,340		'
Service cost	6,300		5,129		3,166
Interest cost	5,175		5,049		4,761
Actuarial loss	-15,161		12,841		'
Benefits payments and adjustments	-4,344		-2,977		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	123,352	[1]	131,382	[1]	111,340
Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	75,276		65,267		'
Actual return on plan assets	14,287		6,236		'
Employer contributions	7,000		6,750		'
Benefits payments and adjustments	-4,344		-2,977		'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	92,219		75,276		65,267
Funded status at end of year	-31,133		-56,106		'
Accumulated pension benefit obligation	106,207	[1]	109,229	[1]	'
Postretirement Benefits [Member]	'		'		'
Reconciliation of benefit obligation [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	44,395	[1]	36,334		'
Service cost	3,875		3,010		1,985
Interest cost	1,759		1,695		1,590
Actuarial loss	-1,449		3,380		'
Benefits payments and adjustments	-374		-24		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	48,954	[1]	44,395	[1]	36,334
Reconciliation of fair value of plan assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0		0		'
Actual return on plan assets	0		0		'
Employer contributions	374		24		'
Benefits payments and adjustments	-374		-24		'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0		0		0
Funded status at end of year	($48,954)		($44,395)		'
[1]	For the pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation. For the postretirement benefit plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_AOCI_Details

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (AOCI) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension Benefits [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Unrecognized prior service cost	$0	$0
Unrecognized actuarial loss	32,162	60,647
Total amounts recognized in AOCI	32,162	60,647
Anticipated amortization of net actuarial losses in next fiscal year	2,174	'
Postretirement Benefits [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Unrecognized prior service cost	0	0
Unrecognized actuarial loss	13,147	14,596
Total amounts recognized in AOCI	13,147	14,596
Anticipated amortization of net actuarial losses in next fiscal year	$898	'

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Net_Periodic

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	'	'	'
Service cost	$6,300	$5,129	$3,166
Interest cost	5,175	5,049	4,761
Expected return on plan assets	-5,772	-5,345	-5,288
Amortization of prior service cost	0	8	10
Amortization of net loss	4,989	4,415	2,368
Net periodic benefit cost	10,692	9,256	5,017
Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	'	'	'
Service cost	3,875	3,010	1,985
Interest cost	1,759	1,695	1,590
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	0	-6	-32
Amortization of net loss	879	554	224
Net periodic benefit cost	6,513	5,253	3,767
Mercer Insurance Group [Member] | Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	'	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	'	$854	'

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_Expected_Ben

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Expected Benefit Payments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Benefits [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$3,990
2015	4,270
2016	4,580
2017	4,920
2018	5,350
2019-2023	35,640
Postretirement Benefits [Member]	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	1,130
2015	1,250
2016	1,380
2017	1,540
2018	1,750
2019-2023	$13,360

EMPLOYEE_BENEFITS_ProfitSharin

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Profit-Sharing Plan and ESOP) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
ESOP, Minimum requisite service period	'1 year	'	'
ESOP, minimum participant age	'21 years	'	'
Number of United Fire Group, Inc. common stock shares owned in the ESOP	220,468	224,041	'
Employer contributions to ESOP	'	$100	$175
Profit-Sharing Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Employer contribution to the profit-sharing plan	6,029	$1,812	$1,092

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Stock_

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Stock Award Plans) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

67 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

67 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

67 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

67 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

108 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

108 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Employee Stock Award Plan-2008 [Member]

Director Plan - 2005 [Member]

Director Plan - 2005 [Member]

Director Plan - 2005 [Member]

Director Plan - 2005 [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Unrestricted Stock Awards [Member]

Unrestricted Stock Awards [Member]

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of opton awards vest and exercisable in installments

'

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Award expiration term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Vesting period of restricted stock awards

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Available for Grant [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Beginning balance (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

568,746

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

130,012

'

'

'

Inception to Date, Beginning balance (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000

'

'

Number of awards granted (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

-238,672

-1,682,496

'

'

-935

-4,555

'

'

-26,100

-202,091

'

'

Number of awards forfeited or expired (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

23,575

136,145

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

6,003

'

'

Ending balance (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

353,649

353,649

'

'

'

'

'

'

103,912

103,912

'

'

Inception to Date, Ending balance (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

353,649

353,649

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of option awards exercised (in shares)

168,482

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

154,926

381,768

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,156

3,156

Number of restricted stock awards vested (in shares)

'

'

'

24,978

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18,576

18,576

'

'

6,402

6,402

Stock-based compensation expense

$1,777

$1,764

$1,829

$407

$329

$245

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock-Basec Compensation Expense [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2014

1,228

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2015

994

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2016

569

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2017

423

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2018

58

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total

$3,272

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Analys

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Analysis of Stock Options Award Activity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Shares	'	'	'
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)	1,242,442	'	'
Granted (in shares)	233,348	'	'
Exercised (in shares)	-168,482	'	'
Forfeited or expired (in shares)	-19,998	'	'
Outstanding at end of period ( in shares)	1,287,310	1,242,442	'
Exercisable at end of period (in shares)	803,568	'	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'	'	'
Outstanding at beginning of period (in usd per share)	$27.78	'	'
Granted (in usd per share)	$24.41	'	'
Exercised (in usd per share)	$19.98	'	'
Forfeited or expired (in usd per share)	$31.58	'	'
Outstanding at end of period (in usd per share)	$28.13	$27.78	'
Exercisable at end of period (in usd per share)	$31.66	'	'
Outstanding at end of period, Weighted-Average Remaining Life (in years)	'5 years 3 months 21 days	'	'
Exercisable at end of period, Weighted-Average Remaining Life (in years)	'3 years 10 months 27 days	'	'
Outstanding at end of period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$4,524	'	'
Outstanding at end of period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	1,425	'	'
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$1,383	$229	$35

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Analys1

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Analysis of Restricted Stock Award Activity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$1,777	$1,764	$1,829
Restricted Stock Awards [Member]	'	'	'
Shares	'	'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period (in shares)	54,338	'	'
Granted (in shares)	30,489	'	'
Vested (in shares)	-24,978	'	'
Non-vested at end of period (in shares)	59,849	54,338	'
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period (in usd per share)	$25.01	'	'
Granted (in usd per share)	$24.78	'	'
Vested (in usd per share)	$30.38	'	'
Non-vested at end of period (in usd per share)	$22.70	$25.01	'
Stock-based compensation expense	407	329	245
Total compensation expense that has yet to be recognized	790	'	'
Intrinsic value of the unvested restricted stock awards outstanding	$358	$1,187	$1,013

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Assump

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Assumptions) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Risk-free interest rate	1.37%	1.37%	2.99%
Expected volatility	34.32%	37.06%	55.47%
Expected option life (in years)	'7 years	'7 years	'7 years
Expected dividends (in dollars)	$0.69	$0.60	$0.60
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year (in dollars)	$6.64	$5.90	$8.99

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Exerci

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Exercise Price Range) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range (in usd per share)	$15.01
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range (in usd per share)	$41
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding (in shares)	1,287,310
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'5 years 3 months 21 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$28.13
Number Exercisable (in shares)	803,568
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$31.66
Exercise Price $15.01 to $21.00 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range (in usd per share)	$15.01
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range (in usd per share)	$21
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding (in shares)	331,017
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'7 years 0 months 14 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$19.88
Number Exercisable (in shares)	115,218
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$19.47
Exercise Price $21.01 to $28.00 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range (in usd per share)	$21.01
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range (in usd per share)	$28
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding (in shares)	317,815
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'7 years 10 months 17 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$23.57
Number Exercisable (in shares)	70,932
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$23.50
Exercise Price $28.01 to $35.00 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range (in usd per share)	$28.01
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range (in usd per share)	$35
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding (in shares)	338,478
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'3 years 6 months 7 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$32.74
Number Exercisable (in shares)	317,418
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$32.99
Exercise Price $35.01 to $41.00 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range (in usd per share)	$35.01
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range (in usd per share)	$41
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding (in shares)	300,000
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	'2 years 8 months 15 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$36.85
Number Exercisable (in shares)	300,000
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in usd per share)	$36.85

SEGMENT_INFORMATION_Narratives

SEGMENT INFORMATION (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of reportable business segments	2	'	'
Life insurance in force before ceded reinsurance	$5,300,305	$5,206,065	$4,916,833
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of domestic business locations	6	'	'
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member] | Commercial Lines [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of insurance in force	90.50%	'	'
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member] | Personal Lines [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of insurance in force	9.50%	'	'
Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Life insurance in force before ceded reinsurance	$5,300,209	$5,206,087	'
Life Insurance [Member] | Traditional Life [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of insurance in force	66.70%	65.40%	'
Life Insurance [Member] | Universal Life [Member] | Product Concentration Risk [Member] | Sales Revenue, Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of insurance in force	28.40%	29.80%	'

SEGMENT_INFORMATION_Net_Premiu

SEGMENT INFORMATION (Net Premiums) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	$754,846	$694,994	$586,783
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Reinsurance assumed	18,485	16,889	14,869
Other	2,635	1,919	1,651
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Fire and Allied Lines [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	208,030	173,249	153,839
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Other Liability [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	199,548	197,842	159,977
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Automobile [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	169,211	155,572	133,974
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Workers' Compensation [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	81,616	68,643	54,404
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Fidelity and Surety [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	18,746	17,713	16,665
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	694,192	629,411	533,771
Property and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member] | Reinsurance Assumed Line of Business [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Reinsurance assumed	14,406	14,473	13,261
Life Insurance Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Other	261	274	262
Life Insurance Segment [Member] | Ordinary Life (Excluding Universal Life) [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	38,875	44,468	30,374
Life Insurance Segment [Member] | Universal Life Policy Fees [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	11,871	11,768	10,995
Life Insurance Segment [Member] | Accident and Health [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	1,302	1,363	1,472
Life Insurance Segment [Member] | Immediate Annuities with Life Contingencies [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	8,837	8,158	10,276
Life Insurance Segment [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total net premium earned	$61,146	$66,031	$53,379

SEGMENT_INFORMATION_Segments_D

SEGMENT INFORMATION (Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$754,846	$694,994	$586,783
Investment income, net of investment expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	112,799	111,905	109,494
Net realized investment gains	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	8,695	5,453	6,440
Other income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	702	891	2,291
Total revenues	228,994	223,024	219,719	205,305	213,317	206,581	199,646	193,699	877,042	813,243	705,008
Benefits, losses and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	775,140	767,169	717,723
Income (loss) before income taxes	37,339	14,395	20,318	29,850	-7,999	10,020	19,177	24,876	101,902	46,074	-12,715
Income tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	25,762	5,862	-12,726
Net income (loss)	26,526	11,725	15,496	22,393	-2,418	8,730	14,716	19,184	76,140	40,212	11
TOTAL ASSETS	3,720,672	'	'	'	3,694,653	'	'	'	3,720,672	3,694,653	3,618,924
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	746,872	673,282	573,957
Income (loss) before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	88,719	36,081	-24,230
Income tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	21,263	2,569	-16,591
Net income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	67,456	33,512	-7,639
TOTAL ASSETS	1,995,069	'	'	'	1,905,315	'	'	'	1,995,069	1,905,315	1,865,147
Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	130,170	139,961	131,051
Income (loss) before income taxes	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,183	9,993	11,515
Income tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,499	3,293	3,865
Net income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	8,684	6,700	7,650
TOTAL ASSETS	1,725,603	'	'	'	1,789,338	'	'	'	1,725,603	1,789,338	1,753,777
Operating Segments [Member] | Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	694,192	629,411	533,771
Investment income, net of investment expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	46,279	40,305	35,690
Net realized investment gains	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,260	3,896	3,066
Other income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	88	316	1,592
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	746,819	673,928	574,119
Benefits, losses and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	658,645	637,648	598,684
Total net income (loss) before eliminations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	88,174	36,280	-24,565
TOTAL ASSETS	2,218,464	'	'	'	2,149,356	'	'	'	2,218,464	2,149,356	2,117,352
Operating Segments [Member] | Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net premiums earned	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	61,146	66,031	53,379
Investment income, net of investment expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	66,467	70,026	73,977
Net realized investment gains	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,434	3,777	3,647
Other income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	614	575	699
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	130,661	140,409	131,702
Benefits, losses and expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	117,159	130,135	119,712
Total net income (loss) before eliminations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,502	10,274	11,990
Intersegment Elimination [Member] | Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	53	-646	-162
Intersegment eliminations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	545	-199	335
TOTAL ASSETS	-223,395	'	'	'	-244,041	'	'	'	-223,395	-244,041	-252,205
Intersegment Elimination [Member] | Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total revenues	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-491	-448	-651
Intersegment eliminations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($319)	($281)	($475)

QUARTERLY_SUPPLEMENTARY_FINANC2

QUARTERLY SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Sep. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2012		Mar. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'		'	'		'		'		'		'		'		'	'		'
Revenues	$228,994		$223,024	$219,719		$205,305		$213,317		$206,581		$199,646		$193,699		$877,042	$813,243		$705,008
Income (loss) before income taxes	37,339		14,395	20,318		29,850		-7,999		10,020		19,177		24,876		101,902	46,074		-12,715
Net income (loss)	$26,526		$11,725	$15,496		$22,393		($2,418)		$8,730		$14,716		$19,184		$76,140	$40,212		$11
Basic earnings (loss) per share (in usd per share)	$1.04	[1]	$0.46	$0.61	[1]	$0.89	[1]	($0.10)	[1]	$0.34	[1]	$0.58	[1]	$0.75	[1]	$3.01	$1.58	[1]	$0
Diluted earnings (loss) per share (in usd per share)	$1.04	[1]	$0.45	$0.61	[1]	$0.88	[1]	($0.10)	[1]	$0.34	[1]	$0.58	[1]	$0.75	[1]	$2.98	$1.58	[1]	$0
[1]	The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

EARNINGS_PER_COMMON_SHARE_Deta

EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

$26,526

$11,725

$15,496

$22,393

($2,418)

$8,730

$14,716

$19,184

$76,140

$40,212

$11

Weighted-average common shares outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,325,695

25,447,918

25,878,535

Weighted-average common shares, Diluted

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,531,375

25,504,526

25,958,849

Basic earnings per common share (in usd per share)

$1.04

[1]

$0.46

$0.61

[1]

$0.89

[1]

($0.10)

[1]

$0.34

[1]

$0.58

[1]

$0.75

[1]

$3.01

$1.58

[1]

$0

Diluted earnings per common share (in usd per share)

$1.04

[1]

$0.45

$0.61

[1]

$0.88

[1]

($0.10)

[1]

$0.34

[1]

$0.58

[1]

$0.75

[1]

$2.98

$1.58

[1]

$0

Awards excluded from diluted calculation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

638,478

[2]

901,008

[2]

989,047

[2]

Restricted Stock Awards [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Add dilutive effect of share-based awards outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

59,849

54,338

50,206

Stock Options [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Add dilutive effect of share-based awards outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

145,831

2,270

30,108

[1]

The sum of the quarterly reported amounts may not equal the full year, as each is computed independently.

[2]

Outstanding awards that are not bin-the-moneyb are excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation because the effect of including them would have been anti-dilutive.

LEASE_COMMITMENTS_Details

LEASE COMMITMENTS (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Rental expense, operating leases	$6,521	$6,017	$5,232
Future minimum rental payments:	'	'	'
2014	7,340	'	'
2015	4,829	'	'
2016	4,099	'	'
2017	3,186	'	'
2018	1,504	'	'
Thereafter	3,219	'	'
Total	24,177	'	'
Galveston office space	'	'	'
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Annual lease payments	$2,105	'	'

DEBT_Details

DEBT (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Credit agreement term	'4 years	'
Current borrowing capacity	$100,000,000	'
Maximum borrowing capacity	125,000,000	'
Interest expense incurred	'	780,000
Letter of Credit [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Maximum borrowing capacity	20,000,000	'
Swing Line of Credit [Member]	'	'
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'
Maximum borrowing capacity	$5,000,000	'

DEBT_Trust_Preferred_Securitie

DEBT (Trust Preferred Securities) (Details) (Mercer Insurance Group [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Mar. 28, 2011
			Trust Preferred Securities [Member]
			issues
Financial Instruments Subject to Mandatory Redemption by Settlement [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of issuances of securities assumed with acquisition	'	'	3
Outstanding balance of the securities assumed with acquisition	'	'	$15,614
Interest expense, trust preferred securities	$509	$1,055	'

INTANGIBLE_ASSETS_Details

INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Goodwill	$15,091		$15,091
Net intangible assets	11,956		13,168
Estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the next five years:	'		'
2014	769		'
2015	769		'
2016	769		'
2017	769		'
2018	719		'
Insurance licenses	'		'
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	3,020	[1]	3,020	[1]
Agency relationships	'		'
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	10,338		10,338
Accumulated amortization	-3,017		-2,380
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	7,321		7,958
Useful life of intangible assets	'15 years		'
Software	'		'
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	3,260		3,260
Accumulated amortization	-3,260		-2,853
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	0		407
Useful life of intangible assets	'2 years		'
Trade names	'		'
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	1,978		1,978
Accumulated amortization	-363		-231
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	1,615		1,747
Useful life of intangible assets	'15 years		'
Favorable contracts	'		'
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	286		286
Accumulated amortization	-286		-250
Finite-lived intangible assets, net	$0		$36
Useful life of intangible assets	'2 years		'
[1]	The intangible asset for licenses has an indefinite life and therefore is not amortized.

ACCUMULATED_OTHER_COMPREHENSIV2

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance as of beginning of period	$95,188	$82,586	$76,978
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-7,425	12,037	8,727
Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	-613	565	-3,119
Balance as of end of period	87,150	95,188	82,586
Net Unrealized Appreciation on Investments [Member]	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance as of beginning of period	144,096	124,376	102,649
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	-23,068	22,386	26,517
Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	-4,427	-2,666	-4,790
Balance as of end of period	116,601	144,096	124,376
Liability for Underfunded Employee Benefit Costs [Member]	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Balance as of beginning of period	-48,908	-41,790	-25,671
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income before reclassifications	15,643	-10,349	-17,790
Reclassification adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income	3,814	3,231	1,671
Balance as of end of period	($29,451)	($48,908)	($41,790)

BUSINESS_COMBINATIONS_Narrativ

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 28, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	'	0	$1,673	$25,763
Mercer Insurance Group [Member]	'	'	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Value of Business Acquired (VOBA), Amortization Period	'	'12 months	'	'
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	'	'	1,673	25,763
Percentage of outstanding common stock acquired	100.00%	'	'	'
Total consideration of business combination	191,475	'	'	'
Short-term debt used for acquisition funding	$79,900	'	'	'

BUSINESS_COMBINATIONS_Assets_A

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed) (Details) (Mercer Insurance Group [Member], USD $)	Mar. 28, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets	'
Short-term investments	$400
Cash and cash equivalents	18,855
Accrued investment income	3,741
Premiums receivable	35,822
Value of business acquired	27,436
Property and equipment	14,985
Reinsurance receivables and recoverables	58,193
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	6,289
Income taxes receivable	2,657
Deferred income taxes	2,837
Goodwill and intangible assets	32,293
Other assets	11,353
Total assets	626,675
Liabilities	'
Reserves for losses, claims and loss settlement expenses	310,647
Unearned premiums	72,249
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	33,690
Debt	3,000
Trust preferred securities	15,614
Total liabilities	435,200
Total net assets acquired	191,475
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]	'
Assets	'
Debt and equity securities	401,548
Equity Securities [Member]	'
Assets	'
Debt and equity securities	$10,266

BUSINESS_COMBINATIONS_Pro_Form

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Pro Forma Information) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 28, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Mercer Insurance Group [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Annualized revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$145,868

Revenues

228,994

223,024

219,719

205,305

213,317

206,581

199,646

193,699

877,042

813,243

705,008

'

109,043

Net loss

-26,526

-11,725

-15,496

-22,393

2,418

-8,730

-14,716

-19,184

-76,140

-40,212

-11

'

14,650

Pro Forma Historical Results

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Revenue

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

741,833

Net income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,139

[1]

Basic earnings per share (in usd per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.31

Diluted earnings per share (in usd per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.31

Transaction related expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$8,318

$11,900

[1]

The year ended December 31, 2011 excludes transaction related expenses incurred that reduced net income by $11.9 million.

Schedule_I_Summary_of_Investme1

Schedule I. Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Related Parties (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	$2,868,413
Fair Value	3,050,451
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	3,050,137
Fixed Maturities [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	2,742,262
Fair Value	2,761,865
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	2,761,852
United States Government and Government Agencies and Authorities [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	321,600
Fair Value	303,478
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	303,478
States, Municipalities and Political Subdivisions [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	690,711
Fair Value	714,161
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	714,157
Foreign Government [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	168,640
Fair Value	174,109
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	174,109
Public Utilities [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	213,479
Fair Value	218,576
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	218,576
All Other Bonds [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	1,345,926
Fair Value	1,349,156
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	1,349,147
Redeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	1,906
Fair Value	2,385
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	2,385
Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	73,324
Fair Value	231,855
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	231,855
Public Utility [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	7,231
Fair Value	16,272
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	16,272
Banks, Trust and Insurance [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	15,853
Fair Value	88,262
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	88,262
Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	43,753
Fair Value	120,956
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	120,956
Nonredeemable Preferred Stocks [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	6,487
Fair Value	6,365
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	6,365
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	4,423
Fair Value	4,724
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	4,423
Policy Loans [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	6,261
Fair Value	6,261
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	6,261
Other Long-term Investments [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	41,343
Fair Value	44,946
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	44,946
Short-term Investments [Member]	'
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]	'
Cost or Amortized Cost	800
Fair Value	800
Amounts at Which Shown in Balance Sheet	$800

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia1

Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (Condensed Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $200 in 2013 and $200 in 2012)	$656	$1,655		'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	92,193	107,466		144,527		180,057
Federal income tax receivable	1,786	16,536		'		'
Investment income receivable	27,923	30,375		'		'
TOTAL ASSETS	3,720,672	3,694,653		3,618,924		'
Liabilities	2,937,839	2,965,476		'		'
Common stock, $0.001 par value, authorized 75,000,000 shares; 25,360,893 and 25,277,463 issued and outstanding in 2013 and 2012, respectively	25	25		'		'
Additional paid-in capital	211,574	208,536		'		'
Retained earnings	484,084	425,428		'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	87,150	95,188		82,586		76,978
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	782,833	729,177		696,141		716,424
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	3,720,672	3,694,653		'		'
United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]	'	'		'		'
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $200 in 2013 and $200 in 2012)	200	200		'		'
Investment in subsidiary	778,843	723,705		'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	3,253	5,140	[1]	0	[1]	'
Federal income tax receivable	537	131		'		'
Investment income receivable	1	1		'		'
TOTAL ASSETS	782,834	729,177		'		'
Liabilities	1	0		'		'
Common stock, $0.001 par value, authorized 75,000,000 shares; 25,360,893 and 25,277,463 issued and outstanding in 2013 and 2012, respectively	25	25		'		'
Additional paid-in capital	211,574	208,536		'		'
Retained earnings	484,084	425,428		'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax	87,150	95,188		'		'
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	782,833	729,177		'		'
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$782,834	$729,177		'		'
[1]	The Condensed Statement of Cash Flows includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia2

Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (Condensed Balance Sheet) (Phantom) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Held-to-maturity fixed maturities	$669	$1,681
Common stock, par value per share (in usd per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	75,000,000	75,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	25,360,893	25,227,463
Common stock, shares outstanding	25,360,893	25,227,463
United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]	'	'
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]	'	'
Held-to-maturity fixed maturities	$200	$200
Common stock, par value per share (in usd per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	75,000,000	75,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	25,360,893	25,277,463
Common stock, shares outstanding	25,360,893	25,277,463

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia3

Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investment income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$112,799

$111,905

$109,494

Total revenues

228,994

223,024

219,719

205,305

213,317

206,581

199,646

193,699

877,042

813,243

705,008

Expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income (loss) before income taxes

37,339

14,395

20,318

29,850

-7,999

10,020

19,177

24,876

101,902

46,074

-12,715

Federal income tax benefit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,762

5,862

-12,726

Net income

26,526

11,725

15,496

22,393

-2,418

8,730

14,716

19,184

76,140

40,212

11

Other comprehensive income (loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Change in unrealized appreciation on investments held by subsidiary

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-35,489

34,436

40,795

Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

24,066

-15,922

-27,528

Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax and reclassification adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-11,423

18,514

13,267

Income tax effect

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,998

-6,477

-4,540

Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax, before reclassification adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-7,425

12,037

8,727

Reclassifications for unrealized net gains on available-for-sale securities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-6,812

-4,102

-7,369

Reclassification adjustment for employee benefit costs included in expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,868

4,971

2,570

Total reclassification adjustments, before tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-944

869

-4,799

Income tax effect

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

331

-304

1,680

Total reclassification adjustments, after tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-613

565

-3,119

Comprehensive income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

68,102

52,814

5,619

United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investment income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

23

13

[1]

'

Total revenues

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

23

13

[1]

'

Expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other operating expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

172

158

[1]

'

Total expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

172

158

[1]

'

Income (loss) before income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-149

-145

[1]

'

Federal income tax benefit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-49

-51

[1]

'

Net loss before equity in net income of subsidiary

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-100

-94

'

Equity in net income of subsidiary

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

76,240

40,306

[1],[2]

'

Net income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

76,140

40,212

[1],[2]

'

Other comprehensive income (loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Change in unrealized appreciation on investments held by subsidiary

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-35,489

34,436

[1]

'

Change in liability for underfunded employee benefit plans

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

24,066

-15,922

[1]

'

Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax and reclassification adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-11,423

18,514

[1]

'

Income tax effect

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,998

-6,477

[1]

'

Other comprehensive income (loss), after tax, before reclassification adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-7,425

12,037

[1]

'

Reclassifications for unrealized net gains on available-for-sale securities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-6,812

-4,102

[1]

'

Reclassification adjustment for employee benefit costs included in expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,868

4,971

[1]

'

Total reclassification adjustments, before tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-944

869

[1]

'

Income tax effect

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

331

-304

[1]

'

Total reclassification adjustments, after tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-613

565

[1]

'

Comprehensive income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$68,102

$52,814

[1]

'

[1]

The Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

[2]

The Condensed Statement of Cash Flows includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia4

Schedule II. Condensed Financial Statements of Parent Company (Condensed Statement of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Cash Flows From Operating Activities	'		'		'
Net income	$76,140		$40,212		$11
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities	'		'		'
Other, net	-7,156		-2,871		1,130
Total adjustments	85,351		131,864		74,420
Net cash provided by operating activities	161,491		172,076		74,431
Cash Flows From Investing Activities	'		'		'
Purchase of held-to-maturity investments	0		-200		0
Net cash used in investing activities	-101,986		-111,340		-175,192
Cash Flows From Financing Activities	'		'		'
Repurchase of common stock	-1,644		-7,301		-12,433
Issuance of common stock	3,393		1,106		208
Tax impact from issuance of common stock	-488		-78		1
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-74,778		-97,797		65,231
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents	-15,273		-37,061		-35,530
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	107,466		144,527		180,057
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year	92,193		107,466		144,527
United Fire Group, Inc. [Member]	'		'		'
Cash Flows From Operating Activities	'		'		'
Net income	76,140		40,212	[1],[2]	'
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities	'		'		'
Equity in net income of subsidiary	-76,240		-40,306	[1],[2]	'
Dividends received from subsidiary	13,175		26,950	[1]	'
Other, net	1,261		26	[1]	'
Total adjustments	-61,804		-13,330	[1]	'
Net cash provided by operating activities	14,336		26,882	[1]	'
Cash Flows From Investing Activities	'		'		'
Purchase of held-to-maturity investments	0		-200	[1]	'
Net cash used in investing activities	0		-200	[1]	'
Cash Flows From Financing Activities	'		'		'
Repurchase of common stock	-1,644		-7,301	[1]	'
Issuance of common stock	3,393		1,106	[1]	'
Tax impact from issuance of common stock	-488		-78	[1]	'
Payment of cash dividends	-17,484		-15,269	[1]	'
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-16,223		-21,542	[1]	'
Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents	-1,887		5,140	[1]	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	5,140	[1]	0	[1]	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year	$3,253		$5,140	[1]	'
[1]	The Condensed Statement of Cash Flows includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.
[2]	The Condensed Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income includes the full year 2012 results. The results of January 2012 are immaterial to the full year 2012 results.

Schedule_III_Supplementary_Ins1

Schedule III. Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	$150,092		$105,300		$106,654
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expenses	2,432,783		2,470,087		2,421,332
Unearned Premiums	340,464		311,650		288,991
Earned Premium Revenue	754,846		694,994		586,783
Investment Income, Net	112,799		111,905		109,494
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	496,439		502,801		462,956
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	153,677	[1]	141,834	[1]	153,176	[1]
Other Underwriting Expense	89,861		81,125		58,757
Interest on Policyholders' Accounts	35,163		41,409		42,834
Premiums Written	722,821	[2]	655,331	[2]	551,923	[2]
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	0		1,673		25,763
Mercer Insurance Group [Member]	'		'		'
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	'		1,673		25,763
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'		'		'
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	67,663		64,947		60,668
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expenses	960,651		971,911		945,051
Unearned Premiums	340,387		311,561		288,868
Earned Premium Revenue	694,192		629,411		533,771
Investment Income, Net	46,332		41,879		35,513
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	437,354		439,137		407,831
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	147,175		134,444	[1]	143,952	[1]
Other Underwriting Expense	73,626		63,620		46,404
Interest on Policyholders' Accounts	0		0		0
Premiums Written	722,821		655,331	[2]	551,923	[2]
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	0		1,673		25,763
Life Insurance [Member]	'		'		'
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]	'		'		'
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	82,429		40,353	[3]	45,986	[3]
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expenses	1,472,132		1,498,176	[3]	1,476,281	[3]
Unearned Premiums	77	[3]	89	[3]	123	[3]
Earned Premium Revenue	60,654		65,583	[3]	53,012	[3]
Investment Income, Net	66,467		70,026	[3]	73,981	[3]
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	59,085	[3]	63,664	[3]	55,125	[3]
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	6,502		7,390	[1],[3]	9,224	[1],[3]
Other Underwriting Expense	16,235		17,505	[3]	12,353	[3]
Interest on Policyholders' Accounts	35,163		41,409	[3]	42,834	[3]
Premiums Written	$0	[2],[3]	$0	[2],[3]	$0	[2],[3]
[1]	2012 and 2011 include amortization of the value of business acquired asset that was recorded as a result of our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. totaling $1,673 and $25,763, respectively.
[2]	Pursuant to RegulationB S-X, premiums written does not apply to life insurance companies.
[3]	Annuity deposits are included in future policy benefits, losses, claims and loss expenses.

Schedule_IV_Reinsurance_Detail

Schedule IV. Reinsurance (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross Amount	$5,300,305	$5,206,065	$4,916,833
Ceded to Other Companies	1,112,688	1,083,410	974,556
Assumed from Other Companies	4	22	42
Net Amount	4,187,621	4,122,677	3,942,319
Property and Casualty Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross Amount	726,221	659,989	564,506
Ceded to Other Companies	50,514	47,467	45,604
Assumed from Other Companies	18,485	16,889	14,869
Net Amount	694,192	629,411	533,771
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net Earned	2.66%	2.68%	2.79%
Life Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross Amount	63,446	68,204	55,330
Ceded to Other Companies	2,792	2,621	2,318
Assumed from Other Companies	0	0	0
Net Amount	60,654	65,583	53,012
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net Earned	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Total [Member]	'	'	'
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross Amount	789,667	728,193	619,836
Ceded to Other Companies	53,306	50,088	47,922
Assumed from Other Companies	18,485	16,889	14,869
Net Amount	$754,846	$694,994	$586,783
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net Earned	2.45%	2.43%	2.53%

Schedule_V_Valuation_and_Quali1

Schedule V. Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Allowance for Bad Debts [Member]	'		'		'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Balance at beginning of period	$866		$825		$1,001
Charged to costs and expenses	30		41		0
Deductions	0		0		176
Balance at end of period	896		866		825
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Member]	'		'		'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Balance at beginning of period	2,909	[1]	3,456	[1]	4,004	[1]
Charged to costs and expenses	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Deductions	548	[1]	547	[1]	548	[1]
Balance at end of period	$2,361	[1]	$2,909	[1]	$3,456	[1]
[1]	Recorded in connection with the purchase of American Indemnity Financial Corporation in 1999.

Schedule_VI_Supplemental_Infor1

Schedule VI. Supplemental Information Concerning Property and Casualty Insurance Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Line Items]	'		'		'
Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	$8,695		$5,453		$6,440
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	0		1,673		25,763
Mercer Insurance Group [Member]	'		'		'
Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of the value of business acquired asset	'		1,673		25,763
Consolidated Property and Casualty Insurance Entity [Member]	'		'		'
Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Line Items]	'		'		'
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	67,663		64,947		60,668
Reserves for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expenses	960,651		971,911		945,051
Unearned Premiums	340,387		311,561		288,868
Earned Premiums	694,192		629,411		533,771
Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	6,260		1,676		3,081
Net Investment Income	46,332		41,879		35,513
Current Year Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses	494,841		512,564		468,926
Prior Year Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses	-57,487		-73,427		-61,095
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	147,175	[1]	134,444	[1]	143,952	[1]
Paid Claims and Claim Adjustment Expenses	419,894		395,788		399,828
Premiums Written	$722,821		$655,331		$551,923
[1]	2012 and 2011 include amortization of the value of business acquired asset that was recorded as a result of our acquisition of Mercer Insurance Group, Inc. totaling $1,673 and $25,763, respectively.