FBL Financial (FFG) 10-K 6 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_entity_informatio

Document and entity information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 02, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP INC
Entity Central Index Key	1012771
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float	$443,655,280
Common Class A
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		24,746,862
Common Class B
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		11,413

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments:
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost: 2014 - $6,111,433; 2013 - $5,828,539)	$6,700,698	$6,081,753
Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 $107,410; 2013 - $90,071)	112,623	91,555
Mortgage loans	629,296	575,861
Real estate	3,622	4,084
Policy loans	182,502	176,993
Short-term investments	48,585	108,677
Other investments	3,644	1,079
Total investments	7,680,970	7,040,002
Cash and cash equivalents	76,632	6,370
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	129,872	116,305
Accrued investment income	76,445	75,186
Amounts receivable from affiliates	2,666	3,145
Reinsurance recoverable	101,247	100,001
Deferred acquisition costs	220,760	335,514
Value of insurance in force acquired	22,497	23,579
Other assets	70,286	67,266
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Total Assets	9,064,408	8,461,323
Future policy benefits:
Interest sensitive products	4,543,980	4,278,871
Traditional life insurance and accident and health products	1,581,138	1,515,139
Other policy claims and benefits	34,895	45,530
Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	341,955	349,761
Advance premiums and other deposits	248,679	240,441
Amounts payable to affiliates	188	408
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates	97,000	97,000
Current income taxes	2,764	1,499
Deferred income taxes	205,698	122,839
Other liabilities	72,196	71,089
Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Total liabilities	7,811,526	7,416,532
FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, without par value, at liquidation value - authorized 10,000,000 shares, issued and outstanding 5,000,000 Series B shares	3,000	3,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	258,410	119,067
Retained earnings	846,737	787,609
Total FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity	1,252,844	1,044,741
Noncontrolling interest	38	50
Total stockholders' equity	1,252,882	1,044,791
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	9,064,408	8,461,323
Common Class A
FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Common stock, without par value	144,625	134,993
Common Class B
FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Common stock, without par value	$72	$72

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical disclosures (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis	$6,111,433	$5,828,539
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	$107,410	$90,071
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,715,316	24,754,355
Common Class A
Common stock, shares authorized	88,500,000	88,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	24,703,903	24,742,942
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,703,903	24,742,942
Common Class B
Common stock, shares authorized	1,500,000	1,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	11,413	11,413
Common stock, shares outstanding	11,413	11,413

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues:
Interest sensitive product charges	$109,770	$111,575	$101,410
Traditional life insurance premiums	183,300	180,944	175,086
Net investment income	382,082	370,651	361,324
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	3,760	15,967	17,479
Total other-than-temporary impairment losses	822	6,662	26,399
Non-credit portion in other comprehensive income/loss	0	4,250	9,372
Net impairment losses recognized in earnings	-822	-2,412	-17,027
Other income	14,849	14,506	17,268
Total revenues	692,939	691,231	655,540
Benefits and expenses:
Interest sensitive product benefits	211,540	203,599	196,387
Traditional life insurance benefits	162,876	160,471	156,290
Policyholder dividends	12,012	13,319	14,275
Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses	138,258	138,260	141,906
Interest expense	4,707	6,863	7,952
Loss on debt redemption	0	0	33
Other expenses	16,445	18,414	20,513
Total benefits and expenses	545,838	540,926	537,356
Income from continuing operations before equity income, income taxes and noncontrolling interest	147,101	150,305	118,184
Income taxes	-47,335	-49,322	-40,071
Equity income, net of related income taxes	10,103	7,410	4,683
Net income from continuing operations	109,869	108,393	82,796
Discontinued operations:
Loss on sale of subsidiary, net of tax benefit ($1,213 in 2012 and $29,198 in 2011)	0	0	-2,252
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax	0	0	-687
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	0	-2,939
Net income	109,869	108,393	79,857
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest	72	165	83
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$109,941	$108,558	$79,940
Earnings per common share:
Income from continuing operations	$4.42	$4.25	$3.01
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$0	$0	($0.11)
Earnings per common share	$4.42	$4.25	$2.90
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution:
Income from continuing operations	$4.39	$4.21	$2.97
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$0	$0	($0.10)
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$4.39	$4.21	$2.87
Regular quarterly cash dividend [Member]
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution:
Cash dividends per common share	$1.40	$0.52	$0.40
Special cash dividend [Member]
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution:
Cash dividends per common share	$0	$2	$0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Net income	$109,869		$108,393		$79,857
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Change in net unrealized investment gains/losses	142,121	[1]	-169,894	[1]	126,043	[1]
Non-credit impairment losses	0	[1]	-2,690	[1]	-5,984	[1]
Change in funded status of the other postretirement benefit plans	-2,778	[1]	1,798	[1]	-8,051	[1]
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	139,343	[1]	-170,786	[1]	112,008	[1]
Total comprehensive income, net of tax	249,212		-62,393		191,865
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	-72		-165		-83
Comprehensive income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$249,284		($62,228)		$191,948
[1]	Other comprehensive income is recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total		Preferred Stock [Member]	Common stocks	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2011	$1,202,429		$3,000	$137,206	$177,845	$884,263	$115
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	79,857					79,940	-83
Other comprehensive income	112,008	[1]			112,008
Other comprehensive income	112,008					0	0
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	10,901			10,901
Purchase of common stock	-181,890			-24,879		-157,011
Dividends on preferred stock	-150					-150
Dividends on common stock	-10,932					-10,932
Receipts related to noncontrolling interest	24						24
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2012	1,212,247		3,000	123,228	289,853	796,110	56
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	108,393					108,558	-165
Other comprehensive income	-170,786	[1]			-170,786
Other comprehensive income	-170,786					0	0
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	20,156			20,156
Purchase of common stock	-60,603			-8,319		-52,284
Dividends on preferred stock	-150					-150
Dividends on common stock	-64,625					-64,625
Receipts related to noncontrolling interest	159						159
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	1,044,791		3,000	135,065	119,067	787,609	50
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	109,869					109,941	-72
Other comprehensive income	139,343	[1]			139,343
Other comprehensive income	139,343					0	0
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	12,028			12,028
Purchase of common stock	-18,460			-2,396		-16,064
Dividends on preferred stock	-150					-150
Dividends on common stock	-34,599					-34,599
Receipts related to noncontrolling interest	60						60
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	$1,252,882		$3,000	$144,697	$258,410	$846,737	$38
[1]	Other comprehensive income is recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating activities
Net income	$109,869	$108,393	$79,857
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Interest credited to account balances	149,528	144,906	141,490
Charges for mortality, surrenders and administration	-105,100	-100,820	-95,437
Net realized (gains) losses on investments	-2,938	-13,555	-452
Change in the fair value of derivatives	-1,353	-955	259
Increase in traditional life and accident and health benefit liabilities	65,999	58,064	55,081
Deferral of acquisition costs	-41,409	-43,452	-47,552
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs and value of insurnace in force	37,171	33,076	43,466
Change in reinsurance recoverable	-1,246	-1,763	-3,553
Provision for deferred income taxes	7,774	6,058	48,789
Loss on sale of subsidiary	0	0	-2,252
Loss on debt redemption	0	0	33
Other	-9,537	-7,677	-17,754
Net cash provided by operating activities	208,758	182,275	206,479
Sales, maturities or repayments:
Fixed maturities - available for sale	511,246	720,316	653,067
Equity securities - available for sale	1,840	12,810	12,860
Mortgage loans	43,634	64,215	71,544
Derivative instruments	1,760	506	161
Policy loans	33,704	34,946	35,907
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	2,997	10,381	302
Other investments	0	30	0
Real estate	0	1,957	0
Acquisitions:
Fixed maturities - available for sale	-777,547	-893,555	-1,086,107
Equity securities - available for sale	-19,178	-26,740	-38,994
Mortgage loans	-96,623	-87,568	-75,780
Derivative instruments	-2,399	-607	-223
Policy loans	-39,213	-37,685	-37,793
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	-20,317	-30,960	-38,153
Short-term investments, net change	60,092	-34,161	-32,760
Purchases and disposals of property and equipment, net	-8,639	-11,846	-3,422
Payments for (Proceeds from) Businesses and Interest in Affiliates	0	0	-9,315
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-308,643	-277,961	-548,706
Financing activities
Contract holder account deposits	608,435	565,255	629,700
Contract holder account withdrawals	-396,795	-384,914	-361,189
Transfer from restricted debt defeasance trusts	0	0	211,627
Repayments of debt	0	-50,000	-174,258
Receipts related to noncontrolling interests, net	60	159	24
Excess tax deductions on stock-based compensation	1,199	1,964	2,393
Repurchase of common stock, net	-8,003	-43,707	-173,253
Dividends paid	-34,749	-64,775	-11,082
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	170,147	23,982	123,962
Increase in cash and cash equivalents	70,262	-71,704	-218,265
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	6,370	78,074	296,339
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	76,632	6,370	78,074
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for interest	4,850	7,104	11,383
Cash paid during the period for income taxes	$22,802	$21,001	($27,957)

Significant_Accounting_Policie

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Significant Accounting Policies
	Nature of Business
	FBL Financial Group, Inc. (we or the Company) operates predominantly in the life insurance industry through its principal subsidiary, Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company (Farm Bureau Life). Farm Bureau Life markets individual life insurance policies and annuity contracts to Farm Bureau members and other individuals and businesses in the Midwestern and Western sections of the United States through an exclusive agency force. Greenfields Life Insurance Company (Greenfields), a subsidiary of Farm Bureau Life, was launched in 2013 and offers life and annuity products in the state of Colorado. Several subsidiaries support various functional areas of Farm Bureau Life and other affiliates by providing investment advisory, marketing and distribution, and leasing services. In addition, we manage two Farm Bureau affiliated property-casualty companies.
	See Note 15 for information on the sale of our former subsidiary, EquiTrust Life Insurance Company (EquiTrust Life) in 2011. Financial results of this business component have been reclassified to discontinued operations in the prior period financial statements and excluded from the notes to the consolidated financial statements, unless otherwise noted.
	Consolidation
	Our consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	In January 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance related to accounting for investments in low income housing tax credit limited partnerships. Our low income housing tax credit investments totaled $84.8 million at December 31, 2014 and $76.2 million at December 31, 2013. Presently, we account for these investments under the equity method and include related tax benefits as a component of equity income. The new guidance allows us the option to account for these partnerships using the proportional amortization method, which amortizes the acquisition cost of the partnership in proportion to the recognition of the tax benefits associated with these projects. The tax credits, net of the amortization of the partnership interest, would be recognized as a component of income taxes. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2014 and must be applied retrospectively, for companies that elect to adopt the proportional amortization method. We do not plan to change our accounting practice for investments in low income housing tax credit limited partnerships.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance that outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers, which supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. Although insurance contracts are specifically excluded from the scope of this guidance, almost all entities will be affected to some extent by the significant increase in required disclosures. The new guidance is based on the principle that an entity should recognize revenue to reflect the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to fulfill a contract. Entities have the option of using either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach for the adoption of the new standard, which becomes effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016; early adoption is not permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this new guidance on our consolidated financial statements.
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Investments
	Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities
	Fixed maturities, comprised of bonds and redeemable preferred stock, which may be sold, are designated as "available for sale." Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized gains and losses on these securities are included directly in stockholders' equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The unrealized gains and losses are reduced by a provision for deferred income taxes and adjustments to deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities that would have been required as a charge or credit to income had such amounts been realized.
	Premiums and discounts are amortized/accrued using methods which result in a constant yield over the securities' expected lives. Amortization/accrual of premiums and discounts on mortgage and asset-backed securities incorporates prepayment assumptions to estimate the securities' expected lives.
	Equity securities, comprised of mutual funds and common and non-redeemable preferred stocks, are designated as "available for sale" and are reported at fair value. The change in unrealized gains and losses of equity securities is included directly in stockholders' equity, net of any related deferred income taxes, as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
	Mortgage Loans
	Mortgage loans are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts. If we determine that the value of any mortgage loan is impaired (i.e., when it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to its fair value, which may be based upon the present value of expected future cash flows from the loan, or the fair value of the underlying collateral. We evaluate each of our mortgage loans individually and establish an estimated loss, if needed, for each impaired loan identified. The carrying value of each specific loan is reduced by the estimated loss. Interest income is accrued on impaired loans to the extent it is deemed collectible (generally delinquent less than 90 days) and the loan continues to perform under its original or restructured contractual terms. Interest income on non-performing loans is generally recognized on a cash basis. Once mortgage loans are classified as nonaccrual loans, the resumption of the interest accrual would commence only after all past-due interest has been collected or the mortgage loan has been restructured such that the collection of interest is considered likely.
	Real Estate
	Real estate is reported at cost less allowances for depreciation, as applicable. The carrying value of these assets is subject to regular review. For properties not held for sale, if indicators of impairment are present and a property's expected undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to recover the property's carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized and the property's cost basis is reduced to fair value. If the fair value, less estimated sales costs, of real estate held for sale decreases to an amount lower than its carrying value, the carrying value of the real estate is reduced by the establishment of a valuation allowance recognized as a realized loss on investments. There were two properties held for investment with an impairment charge of $0.4 million as of December 31, 2014 and one property held for investment with an impairment charge of less than $0.1 million as of December 31, 2013. There were no properties held for sale as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Other Investments
	Policy loans are reported at unpaid principal balance. Short-term investments, which include investments with remaining maturities of one year or less, but greater than three months at the time of acquisition, are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts. Other investments include call options, which are carried at fair value, and our ownership interest in aircraft acquired in a troubled debt restructuring with a bond issuer that filed for bankruptcy. The ownership interest in the aircraft is reported at cost, less accumulated depreciation.
	We have embedded derivatives associated with modified coinsurance contracts, which are included within reinsurance recoverable. These instruments are carried at fair value with changes reflected in net investment income. See Note 2 for more information regarding our derivative instruments.
	Securities and indebtedness of related parties include investments in corporations and partnerships over which we may exercise significant influence and those investments for which we are required to use the equity method of accounting. These corporations and partnerships operate predominately in the investment company, real estate, broker/dealer and insurance industries and include low income housing tax credit-generating partnerships. Such investments are accounted for using the equity method. In applying the equity method, we record our share of income or loss reported by the equity investees. For partnerships operating in the investment company industry, this income or loss includes changes in unrealized gains and losses in the partnerships' investment portfolios.
	Accrued Investment Income
	We discontinue the accrual of investment income on invested assets when it is determined that it is probable that we will not collect the income.
	Realized Gains and Losses on Investments
	Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of specific identification. The carrying values of all our investments are reviewed on an ongoing basis for credit deterioration. When our review indicates a decline in fair value for a fixed maturity security is an other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) and we do not intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell the security before recovery of our amortized cost, a specific write down is charged to earnings for the credit loss and a specific charge is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income for the non-credit loss component. If we intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell a fixed maturity security before its recovery, the full amount of the impairment write down to fair value is charged to earnings. For all equity securities, the full amount of an OTTI write down is recognized as a realized loss on investments in the consolidated statements of operations and the new cost basis for the security is equal to its fair value.
	We monitor the financial condition and operations of the issuers of fixed maturities and equity securities that could potentially have a credit impairment that is OTTI. In determining whether or not an unrealized loss is OTTI, we review factors such as:
	•	historical operating trends;
	•	business prospects;
	•	status of the industry in which the company operates;
	•	analyst ratings on the issuer and sector;
	•	quality of management;
	•	size of unrealized loss;
	•	level of current market interest rates compared to market interest rates when the security was purchased; and
	•	length of time the security has been in an unrealized loss position.
	In order to determine the credit and non-credit impairment loss for fixed maturities, every quarter we estimate the future cash flows we expect to receive over the remaining life of the instrument as well as review our plans to hold or sell the instrument. Significant assumptions regarding the present value of expected cash flows for each security are used when an OTTI occurs and there is a non-credit portion of the unrealized loss that won't be recognized in earnings. Our assumptions for residential mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities include collateral pledged, guarantees, vintage, anticipated principal and interest payments, prepayments, default levels, severity assumptions, delinquency rates and the level of nonperforming assets for the remainder of the investments' expected term. We use a single best estimate of cash flows approach and use the effective yield prior to the date of impairment to calculate the present value of cash flows. Our assumptions for corporate and other fixed maturities include anticipated principal and interest payments and an estimated recovery value, generally based on a percentage return of the current fair value.
	After an OTTI write down of all equity securities and any fixed maturities with a credit-only impairment, the cost basis is not adjusted for subsequent recoveries in fair value. For fixed maturities for which we can reasonably estimate future cash flows after a write down, the discount or reduced premium recorded, based on the new cost basis, is amortized over the remaining life of the security. Amortization in this instance is computed using the prospective method and the current estimate of the amount and timing of future cash flows.
	Fair Values
	Fair values of fixed maturities are based on quoted market prices in active markets when available. Fair values of fixed maturities that are not actively traded are estimated using valuation methods that vary by asset class. Fair values of redeemable preferred stocks, equity securities and derivative investments are based on the latest quoted market prices, or for those items not readily marketable, generally at values which are representative of the fair values of comparable issues. Fair values for all securities are reviewed for reasonableness by considering overall market conditions and values for similar securities. See Note 3 for more information on our fair value policies, including assumptions and the amount of securities priced using the valuation models.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For purposes of our consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Reinsurance Recoverable
	We use reinsurance to manage certain risks associated with our insurance operations. These reinsurance arrangements provide for greater diversification of business, allow management to control exposure to potential risks arising from large claims and provide additional capacity for growth. For business ceded to other companies, reinsurance recoverable includes the reinsurers' share of policyholder liabilities, claims and expenses, net of amounts due the reinsurers for premiums. For business assumed from other companies, reinsurance recoverable includes premium receivable, net of our share of benefits and expenses we owe to the ceding company.
	Fair values for the embedded derivatives in our modified coinsurance contracts are based on the difference between the fair value and the cost basis of the underlying investments. See Note 2 for more information regarding derivatives and Note 4 for additional details on our reinsurance agreements.
	Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Insurance In Force Acquired
	Deferred acquisition costs include certain costs of successfully acquiring new insurance business, including commissions and other expenses related to the production of new business, to the extent recoverable from future policy revenues and gross profits. Also included are premium bonuses and bonus interest credited to contracts during the first contract year only. The value of insurance in force acquired represents the cost assigned to insurance contracts when an insurance company is acquired. The initial value is determined by an actuarial study using expected future gross profits as a measurement of the net present value of the insurance acquired. Interest accrued on the unamortized balance at a weighted average rate of 3.90% in 2014, 4.56% in 2013 and 4.70% in 2012.
	For participating traditional life insurance and interest sensitive products, these costs are being amortized generally in proportion to expected gross margins or gross profits. That amortization is adjusted retrospectively through an unlocking process when estimates of current or future gross profits/margins (including the impact of investment gains and losses) to be realized from a group of products are revised. For nonparticipating traditional life products, these costs are amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies, in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues. Such anticipated premium revenues are estimated using the same assumptions used for computing liabilities for future policy benefits.
	All insurance and investment contract modifications and replacements are reviewed to determine if the internal replacement results in a substantially changed contract. If so, the acquisition costs, sales inducements and unearned revenue associated with the new contract are deferred and amortized over the lifetime of the new contract. In addition, the existing deferred policy acquisition costs, sales inducement costs and unearned revenue balances associated with the replaced contract are written off. If an internal replacement results in a substantially unchanged contract, the acquisition costs, sales inducements and unearned revenue associated with the new contract are immediately recognized in the period incurred. In addition, the existing deferred policy acquisition costs, sales inducement costs or unearned revenue balance associated with the replaced contract is not written off, but instead is carried over to the new contract.
	Other Assets
	Other assets include property and equipment, primarily comprised of capitalized software costs and furniture and equipment, which are reported at cost less allowances for depreciation and amortization. We expense costs incurred in the preliminary stages of developing internal-use software as well as costs incurred post-implementation for maintenance. Capitalization of internal-use software costs occurs after management has authorized the project and it is probable that the software will be used as intended. Amortization of software costs begins after the software has been placed in production. Depreciation and amortization expense is computed primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from two to twenty years. Property and equipment had a carrying value of $28.6 million at December 31, 2014 and $25.8 million at December 31, 2013, and accumulated depreciation and amortization of $53.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $50.3 million at December 31, 2013. Depreciation and amortization expense for property and equipment was $6.3 million in 2014, $4.6 million in 2013 and $4.8 million in 2012.
	Other assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, also includes goodwill of $9.9 million related to the excess of the amounts paid to acquire companies over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized but is subject to annual impairment testing. We evaluate our goodwill balance by comparing the fair value of our reporting units to the carrying value of the goodwill. We conduct a qualitative impairment review at least annually as well as when indicators suggest an impairment may have occurred to determine if indicators of deterioration in the business would suggest its value has declined below the carrying value of goodwill. Such circumstances include changes in the competitive or overall economic environment or other business condition changes that may negatively impact the value of the underlying business. On a periodic basis, as well as in the event circumstances indicate the value of the business may have declined significantly, we will estimate the value of the business using discounted cash flow techniques. We believe this approach better approximates the fair value of our goodwill than a market capitalization approach. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the application of the discounted cash flow model to forecast operating cash flows, including future premiums, product lapses, investment yields and discount rate. Underlying assumptions are based on historical experience and our best estimates given information available at the time of testing. As a result of our impairment review, we have determined our goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2014 or 2013.
	Future Policy Benefits
	Future policy benefit reserves for interest sensitive products are computed under a retrospective deposit method and represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. We also have additional benefit reserves that are established for annuity or universal life-type contracts that provide benefit guarantees, or for contracts that are expected to produce profits followed by losses. The liabilities are accrued in relation to estimated contract assessments. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expense include benefit claims incurred in the period in excess of related policy account balances. Interest crediting rates for our interest sensitive products ranged from 1.00% to 5.50% in 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	The liability for future policy benefits for direct participating traditional life insurance is based on net level premium reserves, including assumptions as to interest, mortality and other factors underlying the guaranteed policy cash values. Reserve interest assumptions are level and range from 2.00% to 6.00%. The average rate of assumed investment yields used in estimating gross margins was 5.75% in 2014 and 5.84% in 2013 and 2012. The liability for future policy benefits for non-participating traditional life insurance is computed using a net level method, including assumptions as to mortality, persistency and interest and includes provisions for possible unfavorable deviations.
	The liabilities for future policy benefits for accident and health insurance are computed using a net level (or an equivalent) method, including assumptions as to morbidity, mortality and interest and include provisions for possible unfavorable deviations. Policy benefit claims are charged to expense in the period that the claims are incurred.
	Other Policy Claims and Benefits
	We have unearned revenue reserves that reflect the unamortized balance of charges assessed to interest sensitive contract holders to compensate us for services to be performed over future periods (policy initiation fees). These charges have been deferred and are being recognized in income over the period benefited using the same assumptions and factors used to amortize deferred acquisition costs.
	We have accrued dividends for participating business that are established for anticipated amounts earned to date that have not been paid. The declaration of future dividends for participating business is at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Farm Bureau Life. Participating business accounted for 30% of receipts from policyholders during 2014 (2013 - 30% and 2012 - 35%) and represented 11% of life insurance in force at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and 12% in 2012.
	Deferred Income Taxes
	Deferred income tax assets or liabilities are computed based on the difference between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using the enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the assets or liabilities are recovered or settled. Deferred income tax expenses or credits are based on the changes in the asset or liability from period to period. A valuation allowance against deferred income tax assets is established if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized.
	Separate Accounts
	The separate account assets and liabilities reported in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets represent funds that are separately administered for the benefit of certain policyholders that bear the underlying investment risk. The separate account assets are carried at fair value and separate account liabilities represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. Revenues and expenses related to the separate account assets and liabilities, to the extent of benefits paid or provided to the separate account policyholders, are excluded from the amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
	Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs
	Revenues for interest sensitive and variable products consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, asset charges, administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances. The timing of revenue recognition as it relates to these charges and fees is determined based on the nature of such charges and fees. Policy charges for the cost of insurance, asset charges and policy administration charges are assessed on a daily or monthly basis and are recognized as revenue when assessed and earned. Certain policy initiation fees that represent compensation for services to be provided in the future are reported as unearned revenue and recognized in income over the periods benefited. Surrender charges are determined based upon contractual terms and are recognized upon surrender of a contract. Policy benefits and claims charged to expense include interest amounts credited to policyholder account balances and benefit claims incurred in excess of policyholder account balances during the period. Amortization of deferred acquisition costs is recognized as expense over the life of the policy.
	Traditional life insurance premiums are recognized as revenues over the premium-paying period. Future policy benefits and policy acquisition costs are recognized as expenses over the life of the policy by means of the provision for future policy benefits and amortization of deferred acquisition costs.
	All insurance-related revenues, benefits and expenses are reported net of reinsurance ceded. The cost of reinsurance ceded is recognized over the contract periods of the reinsurance agreements. Policies and contracts assumed are accounted for in a manner similar to that followed for direct business.
	Underwriting, Acquisition and Insurance Expenses
		Year ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses:
	Commission expense, net of deferrals	$	22,856	$	27,410	$	23,712
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	33,303		29,908		37,651
	Amortization of value of insurance in force acquired	3,500		2,565		5,562
	Other underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses, net of deferrals	78,599		78,377		74,981
	Total	$	138,258	$	138,260	$	141,906
	Other Income and Other Expenses
	Other income and other expenses primarily consist of revenue and expenses generated by our various non-insurance subsidiaries for investment advisory, marketing and distribution, and leasing services. They also include revenues and expenses generated by our parent company for management services. Certain of these activities are performed on behalf of our affiliates. Lease income from leases with affiliates totaled $3.1 million in 2014, $2.2 million in 2013 and $2.4 million in 2012. Investment advisory fee income from affiliates totaled $1.9 million in 2014, $1.7 million in 2013 and $1.5 million in 2012. In addition, Farm Bureau Life has certain items, including fees earned from brokered products, reported as other income and other expense, which netted to $3.2 million in 2014, $3.0 million in 2013 and $3.3 million in 2012. During 2012, we also received fees of $3.5 million from the acquirer of EquiTrust Life to provide administrative support and transition services. We expense legal costs associated with a loss contingency as incurred.
	Discontinued Operations
	Upon the sale of EquiTrust Life our independent distribution business segment was discontinued. Discontinued operations are those in which we no longer have any significant continuing involvement in the operations after the disposal transaction. The results of discontinued operations are segregated from our continuing operations and reported as loss from discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of operations for current and prior periods. The loss recognized on the disposal is also reported as a component of discontinued operations. Components of the loss from discontinued operations are separately disclosed in Note 15.
	Retirement and Compensation Plans
	We participate with affiliates in defined benefit pension plans, including a multiemployer plan. The multiemployer plan records an asset or liability based on the difference between contributions made to the plan to date and expense recognized for the plan to date. The obligations for the single employer plans are based on an actuarial valuation of future benefits. For the multiemployer plan, our contributions are commingled with those of the other employers to fund the plan benefit obligations. Should a participating employer be unable to provide funding, the remaining employers would be required to continue funding all future obligations. We employ a long-term investment strategy of maintaining diversified plan assets. The expected return on plan assets is set at the long-term rate expected to be earned based on the long-term investment strategy of the plans for assets at the end of the reporting period.
	We have a Cash-Based Restricted Stock Unit Plan. Performance and non-performance units are awarded under this plan. In addition to meeting the performance goals, the performance units are subject to a five-year vesting schedule. The non-performance units awarded under this plan vest over five years. The amount payable per unit awarded is equal to the price per share of the Company's common stock at settlement of the award, and as such, we measure the value of the award each reporting period based on the current stock price. The expense related to the performance units is based on the number of units expected to vest and is recognized over the required service period. The expense related to the non-performance units is recognized over the five-year vesting schedule. The impact of forfeitures is estimated and compensation expense is recognized only for those units expected to vest.
	We also have share-based payment arrangements under our Class A Common Stock Compensation Plan, although no new awards have been made since 2011. We recognize compensation expense for all share-based payments granted, modified or settled. The stock option non-performance related stock-based expense was being recognized over the shorter of our five-year vesting schedule or the period ending when the employee becomes eligible for retirement using the straight-line method. However, during 2014 we accelerated the vesting of all unvested stock options and recognized the remaining compensation expense. The impact of forfeitures is estimated and compensation expense is recognized only for those stock-based instruments expected to vest. We report tax deductions related to stock-based instruments in excess of recognized compensation expense as a financing cash flow.
	See Note 8 for additional details on these plans.
	Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income includes net income, as well as other comprehensive income items not recognized through net income. Other comprehensive income includes unrealized gains and losses on our available-for-sale securities as well as the underfunded obligation for postretirement benefit plans. These items are included in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax and other offsets, in stockholders' equity. The changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in our Statement of Comprehensive Income, excludes net investment gains and losses included in net income which represent transfers from unrealized to realized gains and losses. These transfers are further discussed in Note 7. The components of the underfunded obligation for postretirement benefit plans are provided in Note 8.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. For example, significant estimates and assumptions are utilized in the valuation of investments, determination of other-than-temporary impairments of investments, amortization of deferred acquisition costs, calculation of policyholder liabilities and accruals and determination of pension expense. It is reasonably possible that actual experience could differ from the estimates and assumptions utilized which could have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Investment_Operations

Investment Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment Operations [Abstract]
Investment [Text Block]	Investment Operations
	Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities by Investment Category
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized				Gross				Gross				Fair				Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1)
		Cost				Unrealized				Unrealized				Value
						Gains				Losses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate (2)	$	3,335,535			$	348,937			$	(17,566	)		$	3,666,906			$	211
	Residential mortgage-backed	453,607				42,510				(4,583		)		491,534				(3,694		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	485,934				45,573				(812		)		530,695				—
	Other asset-backed	508,090				17,188				(4,017		)		521,261				5,223
	United States Government and agencies	38,227				4,581				(4		)		42,804				—
	State, municipal and other governments	1,290,040				157,571				(113		)		1,447,498				—
	Total fixed maturities	$	6,111,433			$	616,360			$	(27,095	)		$	6,700,698			$	1,740
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	$	80,566			$	5,135			$	(660	)		$	85,041
	Common stocks	26,844				738				—				27,582
	Total equity securities	$	107,410			$	5,873			$	(660	)		$	112,623
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities by Investment Category
		December 31, 2013
		Amortized				Gross				Gross				Fair				Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1)
		Cost				Unrealized				Unrealized				Value
						Gains				Losses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate (2)	$	3,142,476			$	229,151			$	(64,848	)		$	3,306,779			$	329
	Residential mortgage-backed	492,990				35,676				(7,938		)		520,728				(4,155		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	391,845				20,014				(7,192		)		404,667				—
	Other asset-backed	444,047				19,169				(6,673		)		456,543				1,725
	United States Government and agencies	39,261				4,218				(198		)		43,281				—
	State, municipal and other governments	1,317,920				60,869				(29,034		)		1,349,755				—
	Total fixed maturities	$	5,828,539			$	369,097			$	(115,883	)		$	6,081,753			$	(2,101	)
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	$	65,692			$	3,141			$	(2,383	)		$	66,450
	Common stocks	24,379				726				—				25,105
	Total equity securities	$	90,071			$	3,867			$	(2,383	)		$	91,555
	-1	Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on OTTI's are included in the gross unrealized gains and losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for corporate and other asset-backed securities were in an unrealized gain position at December 31, 2014 and at December 31, 2013 due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	-2	Corporate securities include hybrid preferred securities with a fair value of $80.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $76.3 million at December 31, 2013. Corporate securities also include redeemable preferred stock with a fair value of $29.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $17.1 million at December 31, 2013.
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized				Fair Value
		Cost
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Due in one year or less	$	93,299			$	94,846
	Due after one year through five years	758,104				843,133
	Due after five years through ten years	890,121				963,230
	Due after ten years	2,922,278				3,255,999
		4,663,802				5,157,208
	Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed	1,447,631				1,543,490
	Total fixed maturities	$	6,111,433			$	6,700,698
	Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Fixed maturities not due at a single maturity date have been included in the above table in the year of final contractual maturity.
	Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
		December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Net unrealized appreciation on:
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	589,265			$	253,214
	Equity securities - available for sale	5,213				1,484
		594,478				254,698
	Adjustments for assumed changes in amortization pattern of:
	Deferred acquisition costs	(179,544		)		(55,550		)
	Value of insurance in force acquired	(3,939		)		(6,356		)
Unearned revenue reserve	11,461				2,790
Adjustments for assumed changes in policyholder liabilities	(11,182		)		(2,957		)
Provision for deferred income taxes	(143,932		)		(67,404		)
Net unrealized investment gains	$	267,342			$	125,221
Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation of Investments - Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	336,051			$	(374,923	)		$	247,581
Equity securities - available for sale	3,729				(2,629		)		2,378
Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments	$	339,780			$	(377,552	)		$	249,959
The changes in net unrealized investment gains and losses are recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities. Subsequent changes in fair value of securities for which a previous non-credit OTTI loss was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are reported along with changes in fair value for which no OTTI losses were previously recognized.
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time
		December 31, 2014
		Less than one year								One year or more								Total
Description of Securities		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value		Unrealized Losses			Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
Fixed maturities:
Corporate		$	203,764			$	(9,756	)		$	142,600			$	(7,810	)		$	346,364	$	(17,566	)	64.8	%
Residential mortgage-backed		27,889				(315		)		19,084				(4,268		)		46,973		(4,583		)	16.9
Commercial mortgage-backed		—				—				20,900				(812		)		20,900		(812		)	3
Other asset-backed		128,516				(2,349		)		55,526				(1,668		)		184,042		(4,017		)	14.8
United States Government and agencies		500				—				470				(4		)		970		(4		)	—
State, municipal and other governments		—				—				12,472				(113		)		12,472		(113		)	0.5
Total fixed maturities		$	360,669			$	(12,420	)		$	251,052			$	(14,675	)		$	611,721	$	(27,095	)	100	%
Equity securities:
Non-redeemable preferred stocks		$	14,838			$	(110	)		$	4,450			$	(550	)		$	19,288	$	(660	)
Total equity securities		$	14,838			$	(110	)		$	4,450			$	(550	)		$	19,288	$	(660	)
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time
		December 31, 2013
		Less than one year								One year or more								Total
Description of Securities		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value		Unrealized Losses			Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
Fixed maturities:
Corporate		$	802,161			$	(60,138	)		$	43,500			$	(4,710	)		$	845,661	$	(64,848	)	56	%
Residential mortgage-backed		92,020				(3,548		)		20,948				(4,390		)		112,968		(7,938		)	6.8
Commercial mortgage-backed		53,647				(4,454		)		28,054				(2,738		)		81,701		(7,192		)	6.2
Other asset-backed		101,961				(1,109		)		33,170				(5,564		)		135,131		(6,673		)	5.8
United States Government and agencies		4,407				(198		)		—				—				4,407		(198		)	0.2
State, municipal and other governments		353,120				(25,700		)		19,165				(3,334		)		372,285		(29,034		)	25
Total fixed maturities		$	1,407,316			$	(95,147	)		$	144,837			$	(20,736	)		$	1,552,153	$	(115,883	)	100	%
Equity securities:
Non-redeemable preferred stocks		$	31,639			$	(1,756	)		$	4,373			$	(627	)		$	36,012	$	(2,383	)
Total equity securities		$	31,639			$	(1,756	)		$	4,373			$	(627	)		$	36,012	$	(2,383	)
Fixed maturities in the above table include 185 securities from 160 issuers at December 31, 2014 and 440 securities from 366 issuers at December 31, 2013. We do not intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell any of our impaired fixed maturities before recovery of their amortized cost basis. The following summarizes the more significant unrealized losses of fixed maturities and equity securities by investment category as of December 31, 2014.
Corporate securities: The largest unrealized losses were in the energy sector ($90.2 million carrying value and $6.6 million unrealized loss). The largest unrealized losses in the energy sector were in the energy services ($30.4 million carrying value and $3.0 million unrealized loss) and the energy independent ($36.0 million carrying value and $2.2 million unrealized loss) sub-sectors. The majority of losses were primarily attributable to general credit spread widening across the energy sector.
Residential mortgage-backed securities: The unrealized losses on residential mortgage-backed securities were primarily due to continued uncertainty regarding mortgage defaults on Alt-A loans. We purchased most of these investments at a discount to their face amount and the contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages and other assets backing the securities.
Commercial mortgage-backed securities: The unrealized losses on commercial mortgage-backed securities were primarily due to spread widening and concerns regarding the potential for future defaults. The contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages backing the securities. Unrealized losses on military housing bonds were mainly attributable to spread widening relative to spreads at which we acquired the bonds. Insured military housing bonds have also been impacted by the removal of their ratings following downgrades of the insurance providers after we purchased the bonds.
Other asset-backed securities: The unrealized losses on other asset-backed securities were primarily due to market concerns regarding defaults on subprime mortgages and home equity loans. We purchased most of these investments at a discount to their face amount and the contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages and other assets backing the securities.
State, municipal and other governments: The unrealized losses on state, municipal and other governments were primarily due to general spread widening relative to spreads at which we acquired the bonds.
Equity securities: Our gross unrealized losses were on investment grade non-redeemable perpetual preferred securities within the finance sector. These securities provide periodic cash flows, contain call features and are similarly rated and priced like other long-term callable bonds and are evaluated for OTTI similar to fixed maturities. The decline in fair value is primarily due to market concerns regarding the sector. We have evaluated the near-term prospects of our equity securities in relation to the severity and duration of their impairment as well as our intent and ability to hold these investments until recovery of fair value, and have concluded they are not other than temporarily impaired.
Excluding mortgage and asset-backed securities, no securities from the same issuer had an aggregate unrealized loss in excess of $1.1 million at December 31, 2014, with the largest unrealized loss from an energy service provider. With respect to mortgage and asset-backed securities not backed by the United States Government, our largest aggregate unrealized loss from the same issuer at December 31, 2014 was $3.6 million, consisting of two different securities that are backed by different pools of Alt-A residential mortgage loans. Both securities are rated non-investment grade and the largest unrealized loss totaled $2.3 million.
Mortgage Loans
Our mortgage loan portfolio consists principally of commercial mortgage loans that we have originated. Our lending policies require that the loans be collateralized by the value of the related property, establish limits on the amount that can be loaned to one borrower and require diversification by geographic location and collateral type. We originate loans with an initial loan-to- value ratio that provides sufficient excess collateral to absorb losses should we be required to foreclose and take possession of the collateral. In order to identify impairment losses timely, management maintains and reviews a watch list of mortgage loans that have heightened risk. These loans may include those with borrowers delinquent on contractual payments, borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, increases in rental real estate vacancies and significant declines in collateral value. We evaluate each of our mortgage loans individually and establish an estimated loss, if needed, for each impaired loan identified. An estimated loss is needed for loans for which we do not believe we will collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the respective loan agreements.
Any loan delinquent on contractual payments is considered non-performing. At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, there were no non-performing loans over 90 days past due on contractual payments.
Mortgage Loans by Collateral Type
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
Collateral Type		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
Office		$	269,308			42.8	%		$	241,951			42	%
Retail		214,710				34.1			194,053				33.7
Industrial		125,425				19.9			126,151				21.9
Other		19,853				3.2			13,706				2.4
Total		$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
Region of the United States		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
South Atlantic		$	191,835			30.5	%		$	170,529			29.6	%
Pacific		94,770				15.1			92,538				16.1
West North Central		85,664				13.6			85,629				14.9
East North Central		80,999				12.9			79,128				13.7
Mountain		62,473				9.9			53,460				9.3
West South Central		50,010				7.9			39,780				6.9
Other		63,545				10.1			54,797				9.5
Total		$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value Ratio
	December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
	(Dollars in thousands)
0% - 50%	$	180,884			28.7	%		$	149,719			26	%
50% - 60%	189,210				30.1			202,025				35.1
60% - 70%	198,336				31.5			204,460				35.5
70% - 80%	53,480				8.5			15,559				2.7
80% - 90%	7,386				1.2			4,098				0.7
Total	$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
The loan-to-value ratio is determined using the most recent appraised value. Appraisals are updated periodically including when there is indication of a possible significant collateral decline, a loan modification or a refinance request.
Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination
	December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
	(Dollars in thousands)
2014	$	86,174			13.7	%		$	—			—	%
2013	81,802				13	%		84,478				14.7	%
2012	70,274				11.2	%		72,792				12.6	%
2011	46,813				7.4	%		48,190				8.4	%
2010	24,797				3.9	%		26,173				4.5	%
2009 and prior	319,436				50.8	%		344,228				59.8	%
Total	$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Impaired Mortgage Loans
	December 31,
	2014				2013
	(Dollars in thousands)
Unpaid principal balance	$	22,103			$	22,100
Less:
Related allowance	857				888
Discount	267				429
Carrying value of impaired mortgage loans	$	20,979			$	20,783
Allowance on Mortgage Loans
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013
	(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period	$	888			$	1,694
Allowances established	—				804
Charge offs	(31		)		(1,610		)
Balance at end of period	$	857			$	888
Mortgage Loan Modifications
Our commercial mortgage loan portfolio includes loans that have been modified. We assess loan modifications on a loan-by-loan basis to evaluate whether a troubled-debt restructuring (TDR) has occurred. Generally, the types of concessions include: reduction of the contractual interest rate to a below market rate, extension of the maturity date, and/or a reduction of accrued interest. The amount, timing and extent of the concession granted is considered in determining if an impairment loss is needed for the restructuring.
There were no loan modifications during 2014. During 2013 we modified two commercial mortgage loans that met the criteria of a TDR with a carrying value after the restructuring of $18.9 million and recognized an impairment loss of $0.8 million.
Components of Net Investment Income
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	333,759			$	328,979			$	318,364
Equity securities - available for sale	5,388				4,295				3,508
Mortgage loans	32,759				32,447				32,369
Real estate	140				331				—
Policy loans	8,620				8,502				8,997
Short-term investments, cash and cash equivalents	—				102				215
Prepayment fee income and other	9,455				5,098				6,737
	390,121				379,754				370,190
Less investment expenses	(8,039		)		(9,103		)		(8,866		)
Net investment income	$	382,082			$	370,651			$	361,324
Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
Realized gains (losses) on sales of investments
Fixed maturities:
Gross gains	$	4,593			$	18,495			$	16,982
Gross losses	(833		)		(2,374		)		(541		)
Equity securities	—				—				309
Mortgage loans	—				—				767
Real estate	—				12				(25		)
Other	—				(166		)		(13		)
	3,760				15,967				17,479
Impairment losses recognized in earnings:
Credit-related portion of fixed maturity losses (1)	—				(618		)		(5,264		)
Other credit-related (2)	(822		)		(1,794		)		(11,763		)
Realized gains on investments recorded in income	$	2,938			$	13,555			$	452
-1	Amount represents the credit-related losses recognized for fixed maturities which were not written down to fair value through income. As discussed above the non-credit portion of the losses have been recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
-2	Amount represents credit-related losses for mortgage loans, real estate and fixed maturities written down to fair value through income.
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities were $67.2 million in 2014, $138.4 million in 2013 and $156.3 million in 2012.
Realized losses on sales were on securities that we did not intend to sell at the prior balance sheet date or on securities that were impaired in a prior period, but decreased in value during the year.
Credit Loss Component of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities
The following table sets forth the amount of credit loss impairments on fixed maturities held by the Company as of the dates indicated for which a portion of the OTTI was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and corresponding changes in such amounts.
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
Balance at beginning of period		$	(21,592	)		$	(27,712	)
Increases to previously impaired investments		—				(618		)
Reductions due to investments sold		4,820				5,944
Reductions due to change of intent to not hold investments		—				794
Balance at end of period		$	(16,772	)		$	(21,592	)
Variable Interest Entities
We evaluate our variable interest entity (VIE) investees to determine whether the level of our direct ownership interest, our rights to manage operations or our obligation to provide ongoing financial support are such that we are the primary beneficiary of the entity, and are then required to consolidate it for financial reporting purposes. None of our VIE investees were required to be consolidated during 2014, 2013 or 2012. Our VIE investments were as follows:
	December 31, 2014								December 31, 2013
	Carrying Value				Maximum Exposure to Loss				Carrying Value				Maximum Exposure to Loss
	(Dollars in thousands)
Real estate limited partnerships	$	17,046			$	17,046			$	17,646			$	17,646
The real estate limited partnerships had revenues totaling $4.0 million for 2014, $4.3 million for 2013 and $4.1 million for 2012. We may make commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. We did not have any commitments to investees designated as VIE's during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.
Derivative Instruments
We are not significantly involved in hedging activities and have limited exposure to derivatives. We do not apply hedge accounting to any of our derivative positions. Derivative assets, which are primarily reported in reinsurance recoverable and other investments, totaled $7.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $3.7 million at December 31, 2013. Our derivative assets consist of derivatives embedded within our modified coinsurance agreements and call options which provide an economic hedge for our index annuity contracts. Derivative liabilities totaled $8.7 million at December 31, 2014 and $0.3 million at December 31, 2013 and include derivatives embedded within our index annuity contracts and derivatives embedded within our modified coinsurance agreements. The net gain (loss) recognized on these derivatives was included in net investment income and interest sensitive benefits and totaled $2.1 million in 2014, ($1.5) million in 2013 and $1.6 million in 2012.
Other
At December 31, 2014, affidavits of deposits covering investments with a carrying value totaling $7,110.5 million were on deposit with state agencies to meet regulatory requirements. Fixed maturities with a carrying value of $409.2 million were on deposit with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB) as collateral for funding agreements.
At December 31, 2014, we had committed to provide additional funds for investments in limited partnerships. The amounts of these unfunded commitments totaled $47.9 million.
The carrying value of investments which have been non-income producing for the twelve months preceding December 31, 2014 includes fixed maturities, real estate, short-term and equity securities totaling $3.6 million.
No investment in any entity or its affiliates (other than bonds issued by agencies of the United States Government) exceeded 10.0% of stockholders' equity at December 31, 2014.

Fair_Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	Fair Value
	The carrying and estimated fair values of our financial instruments are as follows:
	Fair Values and Carrying Values
		December 31,
		2014						2013
		Carrying Value			Fair Value			Carrying Value			Fair Value
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	6,700,698		$	6,700,698		$	6,081,753		$	6,081,753
	Equity securities - available for sale	112,623			112,623			91,555			91,555
	Mortgage loans	629,296			667,913			575,861			594,451
	Policy loans	182,502			230,070			176,993			210,401
	Other investments	3,558			3,558			993			993
	Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	125,217			125,217			115,047			115,047
	Reinsurance recoverable	3,562			3,562			2,678			2,678
	Assets held in separate accounts	683,033			683,033			693,955			693,955
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits	$	3,563,558		$	3,666,960		$	3,360,519		$	3,371,706
	Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	341,955			329,651			349,761			320,195
	Advance premiums and other deposits	239,700			239,700			230,819			230,819
	Long-term debt	97,000			69,772			97,000			63,343
	Other liabilities	173			173			—			—
	Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033			677,040			693,955			686,387
	Fair value is based on an exit price, which is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. As not all financial instruments are actively traded, various valuation methods may be used to estimate fair value. These methods rely on observable market data and where observable market data is not available, the best information available. Significant judgment may be required to interpret the data and select the assumptions used in the valuation estimates, particularly when observable market data is not available.
	In the discussion that follows, we have ranked our financial instruments by the level of judgment used in the determination of the fair values presented above. The levels are defined as follows:
	•	Level 1 - Fair values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	•	Level 2 - Fair values are based on inputs, other than quoted prices from active markets, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
	•	Level 3 - Fair values are based on significant unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
	In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, a financial instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument. From time to time there may be movements between levels as inputs become more or less observable, which may depend on several factors including the activity of the market for the specific security, the activity of the market for similar securities, the level of risk spreads and the source from which we obtain the information. Transfers in or out of any level are measured as of the beginning of the period.
	The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating the fair value of our financial instruments:
	Fixed maturities:
	Level 1 fixed maturities consist of U.S. Treasury issues that are actively traded, allowing us to use current market prices as an estimate of their fair value.
	Level 2 fixed maturities consist of corporate, mortgage and other asset-backed, United States Government agencies and private placement securities with observable market data, and in some circumstances recent trade activity. When quoted prices of identical assets in active markets are not available, our first priority is to obtain prices from third party pricing vendors. We have regular interaction with these vendors to ensure we understand their pricing methodologies and to confirm they are utilizing observable market information. Their methodologies vary by asset class and include inputs such as estimated cash flows, benchmark yields, reported trades, credit quality, industry events and economic events. Fixed maturities with validated prices from pricing services, which includes the majority of our public fixed maturities in all asset classes, are generally reflected in Level 2.
	Also included in Level 2 are corporate bonds where quoted market prices are not available, for which an internal model using substantially all observable inputs or a matrix pricing valuation approach is used. In the matrix approach, securities are grouped into pricing categories that vary by sector, rating and average life. Each pricing category is assigned a risk spread based on studies of observable public market data. The expected cash flows of the security are then discounted back at the current Treasury curve plus the appropriate risk spread.
	Level 3 fixed maturities include private placements as well as corporate, mortgage and other asset-backed and state and municipal securities for which there is little or no current market data available. We use external pricing sources, or if prices are not available, we will estimate fair value internally. Fair values of private investments in Level 3 are determined by reference to public market, private transactions or valuations for comparable companies or assets in the relevant asset class when such amounts are available. For other securities where an exit price based on relevant observable inputs is not obtained, the fair value is determined using a matrix calculation. Fair values estimated through use of matrix pricing methods rely on an estimate of credit spreads to a risk-free U.S. Treasury yield. Selecting the credit spread requires judgment based on an understanding of the security and may include a market liquidity premium. Our selection of comparable companies as well as the level of spread requires significant judgment. Increases in spreads used in our matrix models, or those used to value comparable companies, will result in a decrease in discounted cash flows used, and accordingly in the estimated fair value of the security.
	We obtain fixed maturity fair values from a variety of external independent pricing services, including brokers, with access to observable data including recent trade information, if available. In certain circumstances in which an external price is not available for a Level 3 security, we will internally estimate its fair value. Our process for evaluation and selection of the fair values includes:
	•	We follow a “pricing waterfall” policy, which establishes the pricing source preference for a particular security or security type. The order of preference is based on our evaluation of the valuation methods used, the source's knowledge of the instrument and the reliability of the prices we have received from the source in the past. Our valuation policy dictates that fair values are initially sought from third party pricing services. If our review of the prices received from our preferred source indicates an inaccurate price, we will use an alternative source within the waterfall and document the decision. In the event that fair values are not available from one of our external pricing services or upon review of the fair values provided it is determined that they may not be reflective of market conditions, those securities are submitted to brokers familiar with the security to obtain non-binding price quotes. Broker quotes tend to be used in limited circumstances such as for newly issued, private placement and other instruments that are not widely traded. For those securities for which an externally provided fair value is not available we use cash flow modeling techniques to estimate fair value.
	•	We evaluate third party pricing source estimation methodologies to assess whether they will provide a fair value which approximates a market exit price.
	•	We perform an overall analysis of portfolio fair value movement against general movements in interest rates and spreads.
	•	We compare month-to-month price trends to detect unexpected price fluctuation based on our knowledge of the market and the particular instrument. As fluctuations are noted, we will perform further research which may include discussions with the original pricing source or other external sources to ensure we are in agreement with the valuation.
	•	We compare prices between different pricing sources for unusual disparity.
	•	We meet at least quarterly with our Investment Committee, the group that oversees our valuation process, to discuss valuation practices and observations during the pricing process.
	Equity securities:
	Level 1 equity securities consist of listed common stocks and mutual funds that are actively traded, allowing us to use current market prices as an estimate of their fair value.
	Level 2 equity securities consist of common stock issued by the FHLB, with estimated fair value based on the current redemption value of the shares and non-redeemable preferred stock with estimated fair value obtained from external pricing sources using a matrix pricing approach.
	Level 3 equity securities consist of non-redeemable preferred stock for which no active market exists, and fair value estimates for these securities is based on the values of comparable securities which are actively traded. Increases in spreads used in our matrix models, or those used to value comparable companies, will result in a decrease in discounted cash flows used, and accordingly in the estimated fair value of the security.
	In the case where external pricing services are used for certain Level 1 and Level 2 equity securities, our review process is consistent with the process used to determine the fair value of fixed maturities discussed above.
	Mortgage loans:
	Mortgage loans are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Mortgage loans are a Level 3 measurement as there is no current market for the loans. The fair value of our mortgage loans is estimated internally using a matrix pricing approach. Along with specific loan terms, two key management assumptions are required including the risk rating of the loan (our current rating system is A-highest quality, B-moderate quality, C-low quality, W-watch or F-foreclosure) and estimated spreads for new loans over the U.S. Treasury yield curve. Spreads are updated quarterly and loans are reviewed and rated annually with quarterly adjustments should significant changes occur. Our determination of each loan's risk rating as well as selection of the credit spread requires significant judgment. A higher risk rating, as well as an increase in spreads, would result in a decrease in discounted cash flows used, and accordingly the fair value of the loan.
	Policy loans:
	Policy loans are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Policy loans are a Level 3 measurement as there is no current market since they are specifically tied to the underlying insurance policy. The loans are relatively risk free as they cannot exceed the cash surrender value of the insurance policy. Fair values are estimated by discounting expected cash flows using a risk-free interest rate based on the U.S. Treasury curve. An increase in the risk-free interest rate would result in a decrease in discounted cash flows used, and accordingly the fair value of the loan.
	Other investments:
	Level 2 other investments include call options with fair values based on counterparty market prices adjusted for a credit component of the counterparty.
	Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments:
	Level 1 cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments are highly liquid instruments for which historical cost approximates fair value.
	Reinsurance recoverable:
	Level 2 reinsurance recoverable includes embedded derivatives in our modified coinsurance contracts under which we cede or assume business. Fair values of these embedded derivatives are based on the difference between the fair value and the cost basis of the underlying fixed maturities, which are valued consistent with the discussion of fixed maturities above.
	Assets held in separate accounts:
	Level 1 assets held in separate accounts consist of mutual funds that are actively traded, allowing us to use current market prices as an estimate of their fair value.
	Future policy benefits, supplementary contracts without life contingencies and advance premiums and other deposits:
	Level 3 policy-related financial instruments of investment-type contracts are those not involving significant mortality or morbidity risks. No active market exists for these contracts and they are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair values for our insurance contracts, other than investment-type contracts, are not required to be disclosed. Fair values for our investment-type contracts with expected maturities, including deferred annuities, funding agreements and supplementary contracts, are determined using discounted cash flow valuation techniques based on current interest rates adjusted to reflect our credit risk and an additional provision for adverse deviation. For certain deposit liabilities with no defined maturities and no surrender charges, including pension-related deposit administration funds, advance premiums and other deposits, fair value is the account value or amount payable on demand. Significant judgment is required in selecting the assumptions used to estimate the fair values of these financial instruments. For contracts with known maturities, increases in current rates will result in a decrease in discounted cash flows and a decrease in the estimated fair value of the policy obligation.
	Certain annuity contracts include embedded derivatives, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. These embedded derivatives are a Level 3 measurement. The fair value of the embedded derivatives is based on the discounted excess of projected account values (including a risk margin) over projected guaranteed account values. The key unobservable inputs required in the projection of future values which require management judgment include the risk margin as well as the credit risk of our company. Should the risk margin increase or the credit risk decrease the discounted cash flows and the estimated fair value of the obligation will increase.
	Long-term debt:
	Long-term debt is not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Long-term debt is a Level 3 measurement. The fair value of our outstanding debt is estimated using a discounted cash flow method based on the market's assessment or our current incremental borrowing rate for similar types of borrowing arrangements adjusted, as needed, to reflect our credit risk. Our selection of the credit spread requires significant judgment. A decrease in the spread will increase the estimated fair value of the outstanding debt.
Other liabilities:
Level 2 other liabilities include the embedded derivatives in our modified coinsurance contracts under which we cede business. Fair values for the embedded derivatives are based on the difference between the fair value and the cost basis of the underlying fixed maturities.
Liabilities related to separate accounts:
Separate account liabilities are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Level 3 separate account liabilities' fair value is based on the cash surrender value of the underlying contract, which is the cost we would incur to extinguish the liability.
Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels
	December 31, 2014
	Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
	for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Corporate securities	$	—		$	3,602,667		$	64,239		$	3,666,906
Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			491,534			—			491,534
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			452,804			77,891			530,695
Other asset-backed securities	—			405,120			116,141			521,261
United States Government and agencies	15,170			18,569			9,065			42,804
State, municipal and other governments	—			1,447,498			—			1,447,498
Non-redeemable preferred stocks	—			76,987			8,054			85,041
Common stocks	3,501			24,081			—			27,582
Other investments	—			3,558			—			3,558
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	125,217			—			—			125,217
Reinsurance recoverable	—			3,562			—			3,562
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033			—			—			683,033
Total assets	$	826,921		$	6,526,380		$	275,390		$	7,628,691
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	—		$	—		$	8,681		$	8,681
Other liabilities	—			173			—			173
Total liabilities	$	—		$	173		$	8,681		$	8,854
	December 31, 2013
	Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
	for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Corporate securities	$	—		$	3,224,785		$	81,994		$	3,306,779
Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			520,728			—			520,728
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			332,955			71,712			404,667
Other asset-backed securities	—			370,708			85,835			456,543
United States Government and agencies	15,291			19,946			8,044			43,281
State, municipal and other governments	—			1,349,755			—			1,349,755
Non-redeemable preferred stocks	—			58,655			7,795			66,450
Common stocks	3,295			21,810			—			25,105
Other investments	—			993			—			993
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	115,047			—			—			115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	—			2,678			—			2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	693,955			—			—			693,955
Total assets	$	827,588		$	5,903,013		$	255,380		$	6,985,981
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	—		$	—		$	286		$	286
Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	286		$	286
Level 3 Fixed Maturity Securities by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis
	December 31, 2014
	Third-party vendors			Priced			Total
				internally
	(Dollars in thousands)
Corporate securities	$	40,095		$	24,144		$	64,239
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	77,891			—			77,891
Other asset-backed securities	95,271			20,870			116,141
United States Government and agencies	—			9,065			9,065
Total	$	213,257		$	54,079		$	267,336
Percent of total	79.8		%	20.2		%	100		%
	December 31, 2013
	Third-party vendors			Priced			Total
				internally
	(Dollars in thousands)
Corporate securities	$	59,812		$	22,182		$	81,994
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	71,712			—			71,712
Other asset-backed securities	65,003			20,832			85,835
United States Government and agencies	8,044			—			8,044
Total	$	204,571		$	43,014		$	247,585
Percent of total	82.6		%	17.4		%	100		%
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis
	December 31, 2014
	Fair Value			Valuation Technique		Unobservable Input	Range (Weighted Average)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Corporate securities	$	41,491		Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.95% - 6.80% (4.92%)
Commercial mortgage-backed	77,891			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.75% - 4.00% (2.89%)
Other asset-backed securities	26,937			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.96% - 6.17% (4.31%)
United States Government and agencies	9,065			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.80% (1.80%)
Non-redeemable preferred stocks	8,054			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	3.34% (3.34%)
Total Assets	$	163,438
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	8,681		Discounted cash flow		Credit risk	0.70% - 1.70% (1.10%)
						Risk margin	0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis
	31-Dec-13
	Fair Value			Valuation Technique		Unobservable Input	Range (Weighted Average)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Corporate securities	$	46,023		Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.91% - 17.08% (7.84%)
Commercial mortgage-backed	71,712			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.75% - 4.50% (2.95%)
Other asset-backed securities	38,305			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.74% - 5.06% (3.55%)
State, municipal and other governments	7,795			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	3.81% (3.81%)
Total Assets	$	163,835
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	286		Discounted cash flow		Credit risk	0.30% - 1.70% (1.05%)
						Risk margin	0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
The table above excludes certain securities for which the fair value was based on non-binding broker quotes where we could not reasonably obtain the quantitative unobservable inputs.
Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis
	December 31, 2014
										Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net
	Balance, December 31, 2013			Purchases			Disposals			Included in net income			Included in other compre-hensive income			Transfers into		Transfers			Amort-ization included in net income		Balance, December 31, 2014
																Level 3 (1)		out of
																		Level 3 (1)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Corporate securities	$	81,994		$	290		$	(16,304	)	$	(273	)	$	(198	)	$	13,623	$	(14,960	)	$	67	$	64,239
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	71,712			2,920			(752		)	—			8,734			—		(4,820		)	97		77,891
Other asset-backed securities	85,835			83,387			(19,165		)	—			(196		)	1,974		(37,074		)	1,380		116,141
United States Government and agencies	8,044			—			—			—			1,014			—		—			7		9,065
Non-redeemable preferred stocks	7,795			—			—			—			259			—		—			—		8,054
Total	$	255,380		$	86,597		$	(36,221	)	$	(273	)	$	9,613		$	15,597	$	(56,854	)	$	1,551	$	275,390
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	286		$	7,237		$	(369	)	$	1,527		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	8,681
Total Liabilities	$	286		$	7,237		$	(369	)	$	1,527		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	8,681
Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis
	December 31, 2013
										Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net
	Balance, December 31, 2012			Purchases			Disposals			Included in net income			Included in other compre-hensive income			Transfers		Transfers			Amort-ization included in net income		Balance, December 31, 2013
																into		out of
																Level 3 (1)		Level 3 (1)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Corporate securities	$	100,463		$	2,157		$	(7,946	)	$	—		$	(1,945	)	$	—	$	(10,798	)	$	63	$	81,994
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	76,281			—			(660		)	—			(3,996		)	—		—			87		71,712
Other asset-backed securities	95,756			38,468			(13,583		)	—			(971		)	4,062		(39,155		)	1,258		85,835
United States Government and agencies	8,555			—			—			—			(517		)	—		—			6		8,044
State, municipal and other governments	223			—			(218		)	—			(5		)	—		—			—		—
Non-redeemable preferred stocks	7,391			—			—			—			71			5,208		(4,875		)	—		7,795
Total	$	288,669		$	40,625		$	(22,407	)	$	—		$	(7,363	)	$	9,270	$	(54,828	)	$	1,414	$	255,380
Liabilities
Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	307		$	—		$	(28	)	$	—		$	7		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	286
Total Liabilities	$	307		$	—		$	(28	)	$	—		$	7		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	286
-1	Transfers into Level 3 represent assets previously priced using an external pricing service with access to observable inputs no longer available and therefore, were priced using non-binding broker quotes. Transfers out of Level 3 include those assets that we are now able to obtain pricing from a third party pricing vendor that uses observable inputs. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during 2014 and 2013.
Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels
	December 31, 2014
	Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
	for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Mortgage loans	$	—		$	—		$	667,913		$	667,913
Policy loans	—			—			230,070			230,070
Total assets	$	—		$	—		$	897,983		$	897,983
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	$	—		$	—		$	3,658,279		$	3,658,279
Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	—			—			329,651			329,651
Advance premiums and other deposits	—			—			239,700			239,700
Long-term debt	—			—			69,772			69,772
Liabilities related to separate accounts	—			—			677,040			677,040
Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	4,974,442		$	4,974,442
Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels
	December 31, 2013
	Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
	for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets
Mortgage loans	$	—		$	—		$	594,451		$	594,451
Policy loans	—			—			210,401			210,401
Total assets	$	—		$	—		$	804,852		$	804,852
Liabilities
Future policy benefits	$	—		$	—		$	3,371,420		$	3,371,420
Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	—			—			320,195			320,195
Advance premiums and other deposits	—			—			230,819			230,819
Long-term debt	—			—			63,343			63,343
Liabilities related to separate accounts	—			—			686,387			686,387
Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	4,672,164		$	4,672,164
Level 3 Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, generally mortgage loans or real estate which have been deemed to be impaired during the reporting period. During 2014, one real estate property was impaired to a fair value totaling $1.0 million which resulted in an impairment charge of $0.4 million. During 2013, one real estate property was impaired to a fair value totaling $1.9 million which resulted in an impairment charge of $0.2 million.

Reinsurance_and_Policy_Provisi

Reinsurance and Policy Provisions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance and Policy Provisions [Abstract]
Reinsurance and Policy Provisions [Text Block]	Reinsurance and Policy Provisions
	Reinsurance
	In the normal course of business, we seek to limit our exposure to loss on any single insured or event and to recover a portion of benefits paid by ceding a portion of our exposure to other insurance companies. Our reinsurance coverage for life insurance varies according to the age and risk classification of the insured with retention limits ranging up to $1.5 million of coverage per individual life. New sales of certain term life products are reinsured on a first dollar quota share basis. We do not use financial or surplus relief reinsurance.
	Farm Bureau Life may cede certain losses under an annual 100% quota share accidental death reinsurance agreement. Coverage includes all acts of terrorism including those of a nuclear, chemical or biological origin. Coverage is subject to an annual aggregate retention of $13.9 million. A maximum occurrence limit of $50.0 million per aircraft applies to policies written on agents of the Company who are participating in company-sponsored incentive trips. Additionally, a $200.0 million occurrence limit applies to employees in the home office building, net of reinsurance on group life policies. All other occurrence catastrophes are unlimited in amount.
	Life insurance in force ceded totaled $13,837.9 million (24.3% of life insurance in force) at December 31, 2014 and $13,220.0 million (24.2% of life insurance in force) at December 31, 2013. Insurance premiums and product charges have been reduced by $32.5 million in 2014, $29.4 million in 2013 and $28.9 million in 2012 and insurance benefits have been reduced by $17.0 million in 2014, $21.7 million in 2013 and $20.5 million in 2012 as a result of cession agreements.
	Reinsurance contracts do not relieve us of our obligations to policyholders. To the extent that reinsuring companies are later unable to meet obligations under reinsurance agreements, our insurance subsidiaries would be liable for these obligations, and payment of these obligations could result in losses. To limit the possibility of such losses, we evaluate the financial condition of our reinsurers and monitor concentrations of credit risk. No allowance for uncollectible amounts has been established against our asset for reinsurance recoverable since none of our receivables are deemed to be uncollectible.
	We have assumed closed blocks of certain life and annuity business through coinsurance and modified coinsurance agreements. Life insurance in force assumed totaled $592.0 million (1.4% of total life insurance in force) at December 31, 2014 and $613.3 million (1.5% of total life insurance in force) at December 31, 2013. Premiums and product charges assumed totaled $0.8 million in 2014 and 2013 and $0.6 million in 2012. Insurance benefits assumed totaled $1.7 million in 2014 and 2013 and $0.3 million in 2012.
	Policy Provisions
	Analysis of the Value of Insurance In Force Acquired
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Excluding impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses:
	Balance at beginning of year	$	29,935		$	32,500		$	38,062
	Accretion of interest during the year	527			902			1,068
	Amortization of asset	(4,026		)	(3,467		)	(6,630		)
	Balance prior to impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	26,436			29,935			32,500
	Impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	(3,939		)	(6,356		)	(15,346		)
	Balance at end of year	$	22,497		$	23,579		$	17,154
	We periodically revise key assumptions used in the calculation of the value of insurance in force acquired through an “unlocking” process, which increased amortization $1.4 million in 2014, $0.2 million in 2013 and $2.6 million in 2012. Net amortization, based on expected future gross profits/margins, for the next five years is expected to be as follows: 2015 - $2.4 million; 2016 - $2.4 million; 2017 - $2.3 million; 2018 - $2.2 million; and 2019 - $2.1 million.
	Certain variable annuity and variable universal life contracts in our separate accounts and in separate accounts of reinsurance partners have minimum interest guarantees on funds deposited in our general account. In addition, we have certain variable annuity contracts that include a) guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDBs), b) an incremental death benefit (IDB) rider that pays a percentage of the gain on the contract upon the death of the contract holder, and/or c) a guaranteed minimum income benefit (GMIB) that provides monthly income to the contract holder after the eighth policy year.
	GMDB, IDB and GMIB Net Amount at Risk by Type of Guarantee
		December 31, 2014						December 31, 2013
		Separate			Net Amount			Separate			Net Amount
		Account			at Risk			Account			at Risk
		Balance						Balance
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Guaranteed minimum death benefit:
	Return of net deposits	$	192,334		$	659		$	195,593		$	791
	Return the greater of highest anniversary	308,101			3,140			315,176			3,150
	value or net deposits
	Incremental death benefit	280,214			56,369			283,556			57,964
	Guaranteed minimum income benefit	41,378			405			42,850			—
	Total				$	60,573					$	61,905
	The separate account assets are principally comprised of stock and bond mutual funds. The net amount at risk for these contracts is based on the amount by which GMDB, IDB or GMIB exceeds account value. The reserve for GMDBs, IDBs or GMIBs, determined using modeling techniques and industry mortality assumptions, that is included in future policy benefits, totaled $3.3 million at December 31, 2014 and $2.4 million at December 31, 2013. The weighted average age of the contract holders with GMDB, IDB or GMIB rider exposure was 62 years at December 31, 2014 and 63 years at December 31, 2013. Benefits paid for GMDBs, IDBs and GMIBs totaled $0.2 million for 2014, $0.3 million for 2013 and $0.2 million for 2012.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	Income Taxes
	We file a consolidated federal income tax return with Farm Bureau Life and FBL Financial Services, Inc. and certain of their subsidiaries. The companies included in the consolidated federal income tax return each report current income tax expense as allocated under a consolidated tax allocation agreement. This allocation typically results in profitable companies recognizing a tax provision as if the individual company filed a separate return and loss companies recognizing a benefit to the extent their losses contribute to reduce consolidated taxes.
	Deferred income taxes have been established based upon the temporary differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. The reversal of the temporary differences will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years when the related asset or liability is recovered or settled. A valuation allowance is required if it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance we considered the scheduled reversal of deferred tax assets, projected future taxable income, taxable income from prior years available for recovery and tax planning strategies. Our tax planning strategies assume deferred tax assets related to unrealized losses on our investments are temporary as we have the ability to hold the investments until maturity, at which time the existing temporary difference is expected to reverse. As such, we have determined that the establishment of a valuation allowance was not necessary at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Income Tax Expenses (Credits)
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Taxes provided in consolidated statements of operations on:
	Income from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest and equity income (loss):
	Current	$	39,562		$	43,264		$	(8,717	)
	Deferred	7,773			6,058			48,788
		47,335			49,322			40,071
	Equity income (loss)	(13,372		)	(11,050		)	(6,260		)
	Discontinued operations	—			—			(382		)
	Loss on sale of subsidiary	—			—			(1,213		)
	Taxes provided in consolidated statements of changes in stockholders' equity:
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	75,032			(91,961		)	60,309
	Class A and Class B common stock	(1,148		)	(1,657		)	(2,167		)
		73,884			(93,618		)	58,142
		$	107,847		$	(55,346	)	$	90,358
	Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation to Federal Income Tax Rate
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes, noncontrolling interest and equity income (loss)	$	147,101		$	150,305		$	118,184
	Income tax at federal statutory rate (35%)	$	51,485		$	52,607		$	41,364
	Tax effect (decrease) of:
	Tax-exempt dividend and interest income	(3,400		)	(2,802		)	(1,741		)
	Impact of incentive stock options	(748		)	(594		)	(341		)
	Other items	(2		)	111			789
	Income tax expense	$	47,335		$	49,322		$	40,071
	Tax Effect of Temporary Differences Giving Rise to Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities
		December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Future policy benefits	$	24,241		$	22,754
	Accrued benefit and compensation costs	16,952			12,048
	Loss carryforwards	11,613			17,041
	Other	4,042			4,478
		56,848			56,321
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Fixed maturity and equity securities	208,470			90,360
	Deferred acquisition costs	26,170			66,583
	Other	27,906			22,217
		262,546			179,160
	Net deferred income tax liability	$	205,698		$	122,839
	We recognize the benefits of uncertain tax positions in accordance with the provisions of the FASB interpretation on accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, our reserve for uncertain tax positions is less than $0.1 million. Unrecognized tax benefits included in our reserve, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate, although we do not expect these impacts to be material. We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and related penalties in other expenses. We do not expect any significant increases or decreases in the amount of our reserve for uncertain tax positions within the next twelve months. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for tax years prior to 2011.
	At December 31, 2014, we had non-life net operating loss carryforwards for federal income tax purposes totaling $32.6 million, which expire beginning in 2031.
	We are continuing to invest in low income housing tax credit partnerships which generate pre-tax losses but after-tax gains as the related tax credits are realized. The timing of the realization of tax credits is subject to fluctuation from period to period due to the timing of housing project completions and the approval of tax credits. These tax credits, which are reported in equity income, totaled $12.2 million in 2014, $9.8 million in 2013 and $5.7 million in 2012.

Credit_Arrangements

Credit Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	Credit Arrangements
	Long-term debt includes $97.0 million of our subordinated debt obligation to FBL Financial Group Capital Trust (the Trust). We issued 5% Subordinated Deferrable Interest Notes due June 30, 2047 (the Notes) with a principal amount of $100.0 million to support $97.0 million of 5% Preferred Securities issued by the Trust. We also have a $3.0 million equity investment in the Trust, which is netted against the Notes on the consolidated balance sheets due to a contractual right of offset. The sole assets of the Trust are and will be the Notes and any interest accrued thereon. The interest payment dates on the Notes correspond to the distribution dates on the 5% Preferred Securities. The 5% Preferred Securities, which have a liquidation value of $1,000.00 per share plus accrued and unpaid distributions, mature simultaneously with the Notes. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, 97,000 shares of 5% Preferred Securities were outstanding, all of which we unconditionally guarantee.
	On September 26, 2013, we redeemed the Senior Notes payable to affiliates that had a balance of $50.0 million at December 31, 2012. These 6.10% Senior Notes were due May 3, 2015 and prepayable anytime at par. These notes were issued to Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company (Farm Bureau Property & Casualty), an affiliate, and an investment affiliate of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), our majority stockholder.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	Stockholders' Equity
	The IFBF owns our Series B preferred stock. Each share of Series B preferred stock has a liquidation preference of $0.60 and voting rights identical to that of Class A common stock with the exception that each Series B share is entitled to two votes while each Class A share is entitled to one vote. The Series B preferred stock pays cumulative annual cash dividends of $0.03 per share, payable quarterly, and is redeemable by us, at our option, at $0.60 per share plus unpaid dividends if the stock ceases to be beneficially owned by a Farm Bureau organization.
	Reconciliation of Outstanding Common Stock
		Class A							Class B							Total
		Shares			Dollars				Shares			Dollars				Shares		Dollars
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012	29,457,644			$	129,684			1,192,990			$	7,522			30,650,634		$	137,206
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	353,140			10,901				—			—				353,140		10,901
	Purchase of common stock	(5,528,700	)		(24,879		)		—			—				(5,528,700	)	(24,879		)
	Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (1)	100			—				(100	)		—				—		—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	24,282,184			115,706				1,192,890			7,522				25,475,074		123,228
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	666,659			20,156				—			—				666,659		20,156
	Purchase of common stock	(363,430	)		(1,862		)		(1,023,948	)		(6,457		)		(1,387,378	)	(8,319		)
	Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (1)	157,529			993				(157,529	)		(993		)		—		$	—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	24,742,942			$	134,993			11,413			$	72			24,754,355		$	135,065
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	390,707			12,028				—			—				390,707		12,028
	Purchase of common stock	(429,746	)		(2,396		)		—			—				(429,746	)	(2,396		)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014	24,703,903			$	144,625			11,413			$	72			24,715,316		$	144,697
	-1	There is no established market for our Class B common stock, although it is convertible upon demand of the holder into Class A common stock on a share-for-share basis.
	Holders of the Class A common stock and Series B preferred stock vote together as a group in the election of Class A Directors (four to ten). The Class B common stock votes as a separate class to elect the Class B Directors (five to seven). Voting for the Directors is noncumulative. Ownership aspects of our Class B common stock are governed by a Class B Shareholder Agreement. The IFBF's ownership in the three classes of stock results in IFBF owning 71% of our voting stock as of December 31, 2014, and having the ability to control the Company. Holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock receive equal per-share common stock dividends.
	Share Repurchases
	During 2012 and 2014, our Board of Directors approved plans to repurchase our Class A common stock. These repurchase plans authorize us to make repurchases in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions, with the timing and terms of the purchases to be determined by management based on market conditions. In connection with the Class A repurchase plans, we repurchased 0.4 million shares of stock for $18.5 million in 2014, 0.4 million shares of stock for $14.2 million in 2013 and 5.5 million shares of stock for $181.9 million in 2012. Completion of this program is dependent on market conditions and other factors. There is no guarantee as to the exact timing of any repurchases or the number of shares, if any, that we will repurchase. The share repurchase program may be modified or terminated at any time without prior notice. There was $42.7 million remaining available for repurchases at December 31, 2014 under the active repurchase plan.
	On August 21, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a tender offer to repurchase 99 percent of all Class B common shares outstanding. The tender price of $45.33 was based upon the average of the closing price of FBL’s Class A common stock for the seven consecutive business days preceding the tender closing date of September 25, 2013. All Class B shareholders participated with 1,023,948 Class B common shares repurchased for $46.4 million and 105,930 shares of Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock.
	Dividend Restrictions
	We have agreed that we will not pay dividends on the Class A or Class B Common Stock, nor on the Series B Preferred Stock, if we are in default of the Subordinated Deferrable Interest Note Agreement dated May 30, 1997 with FBL Financial Group Capital Trust. We are compliant with all terms of this agreement at December 31, 2014. See Note 6 for additional information regarding this agreement.
	The amount of dividends we have available to pay our common shareholders is limited to a certain extent by the amount of dividends our primary operating subsidiary, Farm Bureau Life, is able to pay to its parent, FBL Financial Group, Inc. See Note 12 for discussion on statutory dividend restrictions.
	Special Dividend
	On August 21, 2013, the Board of Directors approved a special $2.00 per share cash dividend to Class A and Class B common shareholders of record as of September 6, 2013. The aggregate dividend totaling $51.4 million was paid on September 13, 2013.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax and Other Offsets
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Gains (Losses)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans				Total
		Net Investment Gains
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Balance at January 1, 2012	$	190,449			$	(12,703	)		$	99			$	177,845
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	125,948				10,325				—				136,273
	Reclassification adjustments	(10,230		)		(5,984		)		(8,051		)		(24,265		)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	306,167				(8,362		)		(7,952		)		289,853
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(169,627		)		9,686				—				(159,941		)
	Reclassification adjustments	(9,953		)		(2,690		)		1,798				(10,845		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	126,587				(1,366		)		(6,154		)		119,067
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	141,947				2,497				—				144,444
	Reclassification adjustments	(2,323		)		—				(2,778		)		(5,101		)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	266,211			$	1,131			$	(8,932	)		$	258,410
	-1	Unrealized net investment gains (losses) relate to available-for-sale securities and include the impact of taxes, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities. See Note 2 for further information.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments
		Year ended December 31, 2014
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
		Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(3,760	)		$	—			$	—			$	(3,760	)
	Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	186				—				—				186
	Other than temporary impairment losses	—				—				—				—
	Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
	Prior service costs	—				—				(11		)		(11		)
	Net actuarial loss	—				—				(4,263		)		(4,263		)
	Reclassifications before income taxes	(3,574		)		—				(4,274		)		(7,848		)
	Income taxes	1,251				—				1,496				2,747
	Reclassification adjustments	$	(2,323	)		$	—			$	(2,778	)		$	(5,101	)
		Year ended December 31, 2013
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
		Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(16,121	)		$	—			$	—			$	(16,121	)
Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	809				112				—				921
Other than temporary impairment losses	—				(4,250		)		—				(4,250		)
Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
Prior service costs	—				—				(11		)		(11		)
Net actuarial loss	—				—				2,777				2,777
Reclassifications before income taxes	(15,312		)		(4,138		)		2,766				(16,684		)
Income taxes	5,359				1,448				(968		)		5,839
Reclassification adjustments	$	(9,953	)		$	(2,690	)		$	1,798			$	(10,845	)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments
	Year ended December 31, 2012
	Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
	Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
	(Losses) (1)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(16,750	)		$	—			$	—			$	(16,750	)
Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	1,012				166				—				1,178
Other than temporary impairment losses	—				(9,372		)		—				(9,372		)
Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
Prior service costs	—				—				35				35
Net actuarial loss	—				—				(12,421		)		(12,421		)
Reclassifications before income taxes	(15,738		)		(9,206		)		(12,386		)		(37,330		)
Income taxes	5,508				3,222				4,335				13,065
Reclassification adjustments	$	(10,230	)		$	(5,984	)		$	(8,051	)		$	(24,265	)
-1	See Note 2 for further information.
-2	See Note 8 discussion on Defined Benefit Plans and Other Retirement Plans for further information.

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl

Retirement and Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]	Defined Benefit Pension Plans
	We participate in various defined benefit pension plans (the Plans), including a multiemployer plan. The multiemployer plan is considered qualified under Internal Revenue Service regulations, and covers our employees and the employees of the other participating companies who have attained age 21, have one year of service, and were employed prior to January 1, 2013. We also have a plan which provides supplemental pension benefits to certain highly compensated employees who have salaries and/or pension benefits in excess of the qualified limits imposed by federal law and were employed prior to January 1, 2013. Benefits under these plans are based on years of service and the employee's compensation. The plans are discussed below.
	Multiemployer Defined Benefit Plan
	The FBL Financial Group Retirement Plan (the Multiemployer Plan) is considered a multiemployer plan, with the participation of unaffiliated and affiliated organizations along with FBL Financial Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Under the multiemployer plan structure, our contributions are commingled with those of the other employers to fund the plan benefit obligations. Should a participating employer be unable to provide funding, the remaining employers would be required to continue funding all future obligations. If an employer elects to discontinue participation, prior to departure they will be required to contribute their portion of the underfunded pension obligation associated with their employees. This required contribution will be based on an actuarial estimate of future benefit obligations, which as an estimate may not ultimately be sufficient to fund future actual benefits. None of the participating employers have provided notice that they would be discontinuing participation in the Multiemployer Plan or would otherwise be unable to continue providing their share of required funding as of December 31, 2014.
	Contributions are made each year, resulting in the Multiemployer Plan being partially funded for payment of projected future benefit obligations. Beginning in 2013, no new participants entered the Multiemployer Plan and those participants who had not attained age 40 and 10 years of service as of December 31, 2012 no longer accrued additional years of service in the Multiemployer Plan.
	Multiemployer Plan name		FBL Financial Group Retirement Plan
	Employer identification number		42-1411715
	Plan number		1
	FBL's contributions (in thousands)
		2014	$16,800
		2013	$22,500
		2012	$15,000
	Net periodic pension cost of the Multiemployer Plan is allocated between participating employers on a basis of time incurred by the respective employees for each employer. Such allocations are reviewed annually. This Multiemployer Plan is not subject to collective bargaining agreements, a financial improvement plan or a rehabilitation plan. No surcharges were required to be paid to the Multiemployer Plan during 2014, 2013 or 2012. We are the primary employer in the Multiemployer Plan, providing more than 5 percent of the total contributions during 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	Other Defined Benefit Plans
	The other defined benefit plans (the Other Plans) provide benefits in addition to those offered under the Multiemployer Plan to certain of our employees or those of our affiliates. These non-qualified benefit plans are not funded, with contributions provided as current benefit obligations become due. Net periodic pension cost of the Other Plans is allocated between the subsidiaries of FBL Financial Group, Inc. and the Farm Bureau affiliated property-casualty companies on a basis of time incurred by the respective employees for each company.
	Funding Status and Net Periodic Pension Costs
		Multiemployer Plan								Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended								As of and for the year ended
		December 31,								December 31,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Net benefit obligation at beginning of the year	$	292,449			$	330,320			$	23,265			$	26,664
	Service cost	5,295				6,472				269				252
	Interest cost	13,919				13,384				1,077				1,035
	Actuarial loss (gain)	50,315				(41,794		)		5,464				(1,305		)
	Benefits paid	(2,327		)		(15,933		)		(3,346		)		(3,381		)
	Settlements	(20,512		)		—				—				—
	Projected benefit obligation	339,139				292,449				26,729				23,265
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of the year	250,820				220,000				—				—
	Actual return on plan assets	12,229				24,253				—				—
	Employer contributions	16,800				22,500				3,346				3,381
	Benefits paid	(2,327		)		(15,933		)		(3,346		)		(3,381		)
	Settlements	(20,512		)		—				—				—
	Fair value of plan assets at end of the year	257,010				250,820				—				—
	Underfunded status at end of the year	$	(82,129	)		$	(41,629	)		$	(26,729	)		$	(23,265	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation	$	305,388			$	266,891			$	23,973			$	21,944
	For all the Plans we participate in, the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets. The projected benefit obligations, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets are included above.
	Net Periodic Pension Costs Incurred by the Plans
		Multiemployer Plan												Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended												As of and for the year ended
		December 31,												December 31,
		2014				2013				2012				2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Service cost	$	5,295			$	6,472			$	8,117			$	269		$	252		$	442
	Interest cost	13,919				13,384				12,706				1,077			1,035			1,160
	Expected return on assets	(17,504		)		(15,666		)		(14,081		)		—			—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost	144				144				424				(11		)	(11		)	(11		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	6,087				12,468				9,467				1,131			1,267			1,108
	Effect of settlement	6,306				—				—				—			—			—
	Net periodic pension cost	$	14,247			$	16,802			$	16,633			$	2,466		$	2,543		$	2,699
	FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension cost	$	4,569			$	5,363			$	5,437			$	1,372		$	1,436		$	1,533
	Pension settlement charges were recognized after determining the total cash payments exceeded the sum of the service and interest cost for 2014. The settlement has been recognized quarterly beginning September 30, 2014 when the threshold was first exceeded.
	The Plans' prior service costs are amortized using a straight-line amortization method over the average remaining service period of the employees. For actuarial gains and losses, we use a corridor (10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation or the market related value of plan assets) to determine the amounts to amortize. For the Multiemployer Plan it is expected that net periodic pension cost in 2015 will include $10.4 million for amortization of the actuarial loss and $0.1 million of prior service cost amortization. For the Other Plans it is expected that net periodic pension cost in 2015, included in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2014, will include $1.5 million for amortization of the actuarial loss and less than ($0.1) million of prior service cost (credit) amortization.
	We expect contributions to be paid to the Multiemployer Plan by us and affiliates for 2015 to be approximately $15.0 million, of which $4.8 million is expected to be contributed by us. We expect contributions to be paid to the Other Plans by us and affiliates for 2015 to be approximately $4.1 million, of which $2.2 million is expected to be contributed by us. Expected benefits to be paid under the Multiemployer Plan are as follows: 2015 - $26.4 million, 2016 - $24.8 million, 2017 - $21.9 million, 2018 - $24.6 million, 2019 - $23.7 million and 2020 through 2024 - $117.0 million. Expected benefits to be paid under the Other Plans are as follows: 2015 - $4.1 million, 2016 - $3.2 million, 2017 - $2.2 million, 2018 - $2.4 million, 2019 - $3.1 million and 2020 through 2024 - $8.9 million.
	FBL's Proportionate Share of Prepaid or Accrued Pension Cost
		Multiemployer Plan								Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended								As of and for the year ended
		December 31,								December 31,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Amount recognized in FBL's statement of financial position
	Prepaid benefit cost	$	17,148			$	16,330			$	1,417			$	1,284
Accrued benefit cost	—				—				(21,437		)		(17,302		)
Net amount recognized	$	17,148			$	16,330			$	(20,020	)		$	(16,018	)
Amount recognized in FBL's accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes (1)
Net actuarial loss									$	14,035			$	9,701
Prior service cost									(13		)		(24		)
Net amount recognized									$	14,022			$	9,677
-1	For multiemployer plans, the funded status is not required to be recognized as an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheets. The unrecognized liability for the underfunded status of our Multiemployer Plan totaled $82.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $41.6 million at December 31, 2013.
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation
	31-Dec
	2014			2013
Discount rate	4.05	%		4.99	%
Annual salary increases	3	%		3	%
We estimate the discount rate by projecting and discounting future benefit payments inherent in the projected benefit obligation using a commercially available "spot" yield curve constructed using techniques and a bond universe specifically selected to meet the accounting standard requirements.
Our expected long-term return on plan assets represents the rate of earnings expected in the funds invested to provide for anticipated benefit payments. We have analyzed the expected rates of return on assets and determined that a long-term return of
7.00% is reasonable based on the current and expected asset allocations and on the Multiemployer Plan's historical investment performance and best estimates for future investment performance.
Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Pension Cost
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Discount rate	4.42% / 4.99%			4.18	%		4.67	%
Expected long-term return on plan assets	7	%		7	%		7	%
Annual salary increases	3	%		3	%		4	%
The discount rate was 4.99% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 4.42% for the three months ended December 31, 2014 due to remeasurement at September 30, 2014 for settlement accounting.
Multiemployer Plan Assets
The Multiemployer Plan assets are primarily invested in annuity products and insurance company pooled separate accounts that invest predominately in equity securities and real estate. We have certain pension obligations that are fully funded through annuity contracts with Farm Bureau Life which are presented as funded annuity contracts below. For 2014, excluding the funded annuity contracts, we employed a long-term investment strategy of diversifying the Multiemployer Plan assets with 55% in fixed income investments, 40% in equities and 5% in alternative investments. At December 31, 2014, the Multiemployer Plan assets were invested approximately 58% in fixed income investments, 40% in diversified equities and 2% in alternative investments. The fixed income investments consist primarily of the group annuity contract and fixed income securities held in pooled separate accounts. The equity securities are in pooled separate accounts and mutual funds. The alternative investments consist of interests in limited partnerships that own various liquid and illiquid assets. Our investment strategy is to (1) achieve a long-term return sufficient to satisfy all Multiemployer Plan obligations, (2) assume a prudent level of risk and (3) maintain adequate liquidity. The expected return on Multiemployer Plan assets is set at the long-term rate expected to be earned based on the long-term investment strategy of the Multiemployer Plan. In estimating the expected rate of return for each asset class, we take into account factors such as historical rates of return, expected future risk-free rates of return and anticipated returns expected given the risk profile of each asset class.
The valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value are:
•	Group and funded annuity contracts: contract value is equivalent to fair value, as the interest-crediting rates are periodically reset to market at the discretion of the issuer.
•	Pooled separate accounts: the net asset value of our separate account shares is based on the latest quoted market price of the underlying investments or in the case of a real estate separate account, estimates of the current market value of the underlying property held.
•	Mutual funds: the net asset value of our mutual funds is based on quoted market prices available in active markets.
•	Alternative investments: the carrying value of the limited partnership interests reflects the Plan’s proportionate share of the net asset value of those partnerships which is derived from the fair value of the underlying holdings.
The pension financial instruments measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories:
Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that are accessible to us at the measurement date.
Level 2 - Inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets that are either directly or indirectly observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.
Level 3 - Inputs are unobservable and require management's judgment about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the assets.
Fair Values of the Multiemployer Plan Assets by Asset Category and Hierarchy Levels
	31-Dec-14
	Quoted prices in				Significant other				Significant				Total
	active markets for				observable				unobservable
	identical assets				inputs				inputs
	(Level 1)				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Mutual funds: (1)
U.S. equity funds	$	31,499			$	—			$	—			$	31,499
International funds	29,589				—				—				29,589
Pooled separate accounts: (1)
Short-term fixed income funds	—				543				—				543
Fixed income funds	—				12,249				—				12,249
U.S. equity funds	—				25,250				—				25,250
Real estate fund	—				12,818				—				12,818
Annuities: (2)
Group annuity contract	—				—				128,244				128,244
Funded annuity contracts	—				—				12,298				12,298
Alternative investments: (3)
Limited partnerships	—				—				4,520				4,520
Total	$	61,088			$	50,860			$	145,062			$	257,010
	31-Dec-13
	Quoted prices in				Significant other				Significant				Total
	active markets for				observable				unobservable
	identical assets				inputs				inputs
	(Level 1)				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
	(Dollars in thousands)
Mutual funds: (1)
U.S. equity funds	$	31,325			$	—			$	—			$	31,325
International funds	30,884				—				—				30,884
Pooled separate accounts: (1)
Short-term fixed income funds	—				6,904				—				6,904
Fixed income funds	—				12,166				—				12,166
U.S. equity funds	—				24,934				—				24,934
Real estate fund	—				12,253				—				12,253
Annuities: (2)
Group annuity contract	—				—				117,226				117,226
Funded annuity contracts	—				—				12,932				12,932
Alternative investments: (3)
Limited partnerships	—				—				2,196				2,196
Total	$	62,209			$	56,257			$	132,354			$	250,820
-1	Represents mutual funds and pooled separate account investments with Principal Life Insurance Company.
-2	Represents group annuity contracts with Farm Bureau Life.
-3	Represents interests in several limited partnerships.
Level 3 Multiemployer Plan Asset Changes in Fair Value
	December 31, 2014
									Return on assets
	December 31,				Purchases				Held at year end				Sold during year			Transfers into (out) of level 3			December 31, 2014
	2013				(disposals),
					net
	(Dollars in thousands)
Group annuity contract	$	117,226			$	5,829			$	5,189			$	—		$	—		$	128,244
Funded annuity contracts	12,932				(1,376		)		742				—			—			12,298
Limited partnerships	2,196				2,107				217				—			—			4,520
Total	$	132,354			$	6,560			$	6,148			$	—		$	—		$	145,062
	December 31, 2013
									Return on assets
	December 31,				Purchases				Held at year end				Sold during year			Transfers into (out) of level 3			December 31, 2013
	2012				(disposals),
					net
	(Dollars in thousands)
Group annuity contract	$	109,275			$	2,793			$	5,158			$	—		$	—		$	117,226
Funded annuity contracts	13,235				(1,103		)		800				—			—			12,932
Limited partnerships	—				2,258				(62		)		—			—			2,196
Total	$	122,510			$	3,948			$	5,896			$	—		$	—		$	132,354
Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	Other Retirement Plans
	We participate with several affiliates in a 401(k) defined contribution plan which covers substantially all employees. We contributed cash in an amount equal to 100% of an employee's contributions up to 2% or 4% of the eligible compensation contributed by the employee and an amount equal to 50% of an employee's contributions on the next 2% of the eligible compensation contributed by the employee. As shown in the table below, certain employees will also receive an annual discretionary employer contribution based on age plus years of service ranging from 2.75% to 5.75% as a percent of pay. Costs are allocated among the affiliates on a basis of time incurred by the respective employees for each company. Our expense related to the plan totaled $2.0 million in 2014, $1.8 million in 2013 and $0.9 million in 2012.
	Attained age 40 and	Accruing years of service in the Multiemployer Plan	100% Employer Match	50% Employer Match	Discretionary Employer Contribution
	10 years of service at
	31-Dec-12
	Yes	Yes	first 2% of employee's contributions	employee contributions between 2% and 4%	No
	No	No	first 4% of employee's contributions	employee contributions between 4% and 6%	2.75% to 5.75%
	We have established deferred compensation plans for certain key current and former employees and have certain other benefit plans which provide for retirement and other benefits. Liabilities for these plans are accrued as the related benefits are earned.
	Certain of the assets related to these plans are on deposit with us and amounts relating to these plans are included in our financial statements. In addition, certain amounts included in the policy liabilities for interest sensitive products relate to deposit administration funds maintained by us on behalf of affiliates.
	In addition to benefits offered under the aforementioned benefit plans, we and several other affiliates sponsor a plan that provides group term life insurance benefits to retirees who have worked full-time for ten years and attained age 55 while in service. Postretirement benefit expense for this plan is allocated in a manner consistent with pension expense discussed above. We also have two single-employer plans that provide health and medical benefits to a small group of retirees. Postretirement benefit expense totaled $0.1 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012. Changes in the underfunded status of these plans, reported in other comprehensive income, aggregated $0.1 million in 2014, $0.2 million in 2013 and ($0.1) million in 2012.
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]	Share-based Compensation Plans
	The share-based payment arrangements under our Class A Common Stock Compensation Plan are described below. We allocate a portion of the expense for these arrangements to affiliates; expense amounts below represent our share of these expenses. Compensation expense for these arrangements totaled $0.2 million for 2014, $0.3 million for 2013 and $2.1 million for 2012. The income tax benefit recognized in the statements of operations for these arrangements totaled less than $0.1 million for 2014 and 2013 and $0.9 million for 2012.
	We also have a Cash-Based Restricted Stock Unit Plan. Compensation expense for arrangements under this plan totaled $1.0 million for 2014, $1.0 million for 2013 and $0.2 million for 2012. The income tax benefit recognized in the statements of operations for this arrangement totaled $0.6 million in 2014, $0.6 million in 2013 and $0.1 million in 2012.
	Stock Option Awards
	Prior to 2011, we granted stock options for Class A common stock to officers and employees, which have a contractual term of 10 years and vest over a period up to five years, contingent upon continued employment with us. Prior to 2009, we also granted stock options for Class A common stock to directors, which were fully vested upon grant and had a contractual term that varied with the length of time the director remained on the Board, up to 10 years. The exercise price for all options is equal to the fair value of the common stock on the grant date. The fair value of each option award was estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model. The risk-free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. We used the historical realized volatility of our stock for the expected volatility assumption within the valuation model. The weighted average expected term for the majority of our options was calculated using average historical behavior.
	In 2014, we accelerated the vesting of all unvested options. Accordingly, the expense related to nonvested share-based compensation granted under the stock option arrangement has been fully recognized at December 31, 2014.
	Stock Option Activity
		Number of Shares			Weighted-Average				Weighted-Average			Aggregate
					Exercise Price				Remaining			Intrinsic
					per Share				Contractual			Value (1)
									Term (in
									Years)
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Shares under option at January 1, 2014	651,497			$	27.61
	Exercised	(378,437	)		27.69
	Forfeited or expired	—			—
	Shares under option at December 31, 2014	273,060			27.5				3.12			$	8,335
	Vested at December 31, 2014 or expected to vest in the future	273,060			$	27.5			3.12			$	8,335
	Exercisable options at December 31, 2014	273,060			$	27.5			3.12			$	8,335
	-1	Represents the difference between the share price and exercise price for each option, excluding options where the exercise price is above the share price, at December 31, 2014.
	The intrinsic value of options exercised during the year totaled $6.5 million for 2014, $6.6 million for 2013 and $5.4 million for 2012.
	We issue new shares to satisfy stock option exercises. Beginning in 2014, conditional upon market conditions, we repurchase Class A common shares on the open market for shares issued upon the exercise of stock options. Cash received from stock options exercised totaled $10.5 million for 2014, $19.4 million for 2013 and $9.7 million for 2012. The actual tax benefit realized from stock options exercised totaled $2.2 million for 2014, $2.3 million for 2013 and $1.8 million for 2012.
	Nonvested Stock Awards
	In 2011 and prior years, we granted nonvested Class A common shares to certain executives. The restrictions on these shares lapsed and the shares vested if we met or exceeded operating goals, such as earnings per share, book value and expense targets, within or during a three year period. Depending on performance, the actual amount of shares issued could range from zero to 100% of the granted amount. The value of the awards was based on the grant date fair value of the nonvested stock adjusted for expected forfeitures and an estimate of the number of shares expected to vest. The estimate for the number of shares to vest was reviewed each period and the impact of any changes in the estimate on expense was recorded in the current period. These awards were charged to expense using the straight-line method over the required service period. Dividends on the restricted stock during the restriction period were contingent upon vesting.
	The final nonvested shares were vested and released in 2013 and the expense related to these shares has been fully recognized at December 31, 2013. The tax benefit realized from nonvested stock released to employees was $1.7 million in 2013 and $1.6 million in 2012. We have a policy of withholding shares to cover estimated future tax payments.
	Shares of Class A common stock available for grant as additional awards under the Class A Common Stock Compensation Plan totaled 3,430,142 at December 31, 2014.
	Cash-Based Restricted Stock Units
	We annually grant cash-based restricted stock units to certain executives beginning in 2012. The restricted stock units will vest and be paid out in cash over 5 years, contingent on continued employment with us. Cash-based restricted stock units were also granted to certain executives in 2012 that were vested and paid out in cash after a two-year required service period.
	The amount payable per unit awarded is equal to the price per share of the Company's common stock at settlement of the award, and as such, we measure the value of the award each reporting period based on the current stock price. The effects of changes in the stock price during the service period are recognized as compensation cost over the service period.
	We also issued performance cash-based restricted stock units to an executive in 2014 and 2013. These units will vest and be paid out in cash over 5 years, contingent upon meeting an earnings per share goal as well as continued employment with the Company.
	Restricted Stock Unit Activity
		Number of Units			Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
					per Unit
	Restricted stock units at January 1, 2014	117,966			$	34.92
	Granted	67,035			38.63
	Vested	(43,571	)		34.58
	Forfeited or canceled	(12,668	)		36.54
	Restricted stock units at December 31, 2014	128,762			36.8
	The weighted average grant-date fair value per common share of restricted stock units granted was $38.63 in 2014, $34.94 in 2013 and $35.10 in 2012. Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units based on the stock price at December 31, 2014 totaled $3.8 million. This expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.18 years. Dividends are paid on restricted stock units upon vesting. Cash payments including dividends for restricted stock units totaled $1.8 million in 2014 and $0.5 million in 2013.
	Other
	We have a Director Compensation Plan under which non-employee directors on our Board may elect to receive a portion of their compensation in the form of cash or deferred cash-based stock units. Cash-based stock units outstanding totaled 19,066 at December 31, 2014 and 17,295 at December 31, 2013. Prior to 2012, deferred stock units were used instead of deferred cash-based stock units. Under this plan, we have deferred stock units outstanding totaling 56,759 at December 31, 2014 and 58,159 at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014, there were 117,557 shares of Class A common stock available for future issuance under the Director Compensation Plan. We also have an Executive Salary and Bonus Deferred Compensation Plan under which certain officers of the Company are allowed to use their base salary and annual cash bonus to purchase deferred cash-based stock units. Cash-based stock units outstanding total 16,923 at December 31, 2014 and 13,308 at December 31, 2013. Prior to 2012, deferred stock units were used instead of deferred cash-based stock units. Under this plan, we have deferred stock units outstanding totaling 90,009 at December 31, 2014 and 98,630 at December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2014, shares of Class A common stock available for future issuance under this plan totaled 108,296. This plan was frozen to future deferrals on December 31, 2013. We also have an Executive Excess 401(k) Plan under which officers of the Company who meet salary guidelines and 401(k) contribution guidelines are allowed to purchase unregistered deferred cash-based stock units. Cash based stock units outstanding total 79 at December 31, 2014 and 93 at December 31, 2013. Prior to 2012, deferred stock units were used instead of deferred cash-based stock units. Under this plan, we have deferred stock units outstanding totaling 2,878 at December 31, 2014 and 4,355 at December 31, 2013. This plan was frozen to future deferrals on December 31, 2013.

Managment_and_Other_Agreements

Managment and Other Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Management and Other Agreements [Abstract]
Management and other agreements [Text Block]	Management and Other Agreements
	We share certain office facilities and services with the IFBF and its affiliated companies. These expenses are allocated on the basis of cost and time studies that are updated annually and primarily consist of rent, salaries and related expenses, travel and other operating costs. We also have an expense allocation agreement with Farm Bureau Property & Casualty for the use of property and equipment. Expense relating to this agreement totaled $0.9 million in 2014 and $1.1 million in 2013 and 2012.
	We have management agreements, which include Farm Bureau Property & Casualty and other affiliates, under which we provide general business, administrative and management services. Fee income for these services totaled $1.9 million in 2014, $1.8 million in 2013 and $1.9 million in 2012. In addition, Farm Bureau Management Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the IFBF, provides certain services to us under a separate arrangement. We incurred related expenses totaling $1.0 million in 2014, $0.9 million in 2013 and $1.0 million in 2012.
	We have service agreements with the Farm Bureau-affiliated property-casualty companies operating within our marketing territory, including Farm Bureau Property & Casualty and another affiliate. Under the service agreements, the property-casualty companies are responsible for development and management of our agency force for a fee. We incurred expenses totaling $9.3 million in 2014, $9.7 million in 2013 and $10.0 million in 2012 relating to these arrangements.
	We are licensed by the IFBF to use the "Farm Bureau" and "FB" designations in Iowa. In connection with this license, we incurred royalty expense totaling $0.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012. We have similar arrangements with other state Farm Bureau organizations in our market territory. Total royalty expense to Farm Bureau organizations other than the IFBF totaled $1.7 million in 2014, $1.8 million in 2013 and $1.4 million in 2012. The royalty agreement with the IFBF provides them an option to terminate the agreement when the quarterly common stock dividend is below $0.10 per share.

Committments_and_Contingencies

Committments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	Commitments and Contingencies
	Legal Proceedings
	In the normal course of business, we may be involved in litigation where damages are alleged that are substantially in excess of contractual policy benefits or certain other agreements. In recent years, companies in the life insurance and annuity business have faced litigation, including class action lawsuits, alleging improper product design, improper sales practices and similar claims. We are not aware of any such matters threatened or pending against FBL Financial Group, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries.
	Other
	We self-insure our employee health and dental claims. However, claims in excess of our self-insurance limits are fully insured. We fund insurance claims through a self-insurance trust. Deposits to the trust are made at an amount equal to our best estimate of claims to be paid during the period and a liability is established at each balance sheet date for any unpaid claims. Adjustments, if any, resulting in changes in the estimate of claims incurred will be reflected in operations in the periods in which such adjustments are known.
	We lease our home office properties under a 10-year operating lease from a wholly-owned subsidiary of the IFBF. Future remaining minimum lease payments under this lease, as of December 31, 2014, are as follows: 2015 - $2.3 million, 2016 - $2.3 million, 2017 - $2.3 million, 2018 - $2.3 million, 2019 - $2.3 million and thereafter, through 2021 - $4.6 million. Rent expense for the lease totaled $4.3 million in 2014 and 2013 and $4.5 million in 2012. These amounts are net of $0.2 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012 in amortization of a deferred gain on the exchange of our home office properties for common stock in 1998. The remaining unamortized deferred gain totaled $1.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $1.4 million at December 31, 2013.
	From time to time, assessments are levied on our insurance subsidiaries by guaranty associations in most states in which the subsidiaries are licensed. These assessments, which are accrued for, are to cover losses of policyholders of insolvent or rehabilitated companies. In some states, these assessments can be partially recovered through a reduction in future premium taxes. Expenses (recoveries) for guaranty fund assessments, net of related premium tax offsets, totaled less than $0.1 million in 2014 and 2013 and less than ($0.1) million in 2012.

Earnings_per_Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
	Computation of Earnings Per Common Share
		Year ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Numerator:
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$	109,941	$	108,558	$	79,940
	Less: Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(2,939		)
	Less: Dividends on Series B preferred stock	150		150		150
	Income available to common stockholders from continuing operations	$	109,791	$	108,408	$	82,729
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average shares - basic	24,866,284		25,508,522		27,497,146
	Effect of dilutive securities - stock-based compensation	149,960		265,893		341,402
	Weighted-average shares - diluted	25,016,244		25,774,415		27,838,548
	Earnings per common share:
	Income from continuing operations	$	4.42	$	4.25	$	3.01
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(0.11		)
	Total earnings per share	$	4.42	$	4.25	$	2.9
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution:
	Income from continuing operations	$	4.39	$	4.21	$	2.97
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(0.10		)
	Total earnings per share	$	4.39	$	4.21	$	2.87
	Antidilutive stock options excluded from diluted earnings per share	—		—		790,216

Statutory_Insurance_Informatio

Statutory Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Statutory Insurance Information [Abstract]
Statutory insurance information [Text Block]	Statutory Insurance Information
	The statutory financial statements of Farm Bureau Life are prepared in accordance with the accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Insurance Division. The Insurance Division has adopted the accounting guidance contained in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual (the “Manual”) as the prescribed accounting practice for insurance companies domiciled in Iowa. The Insurance Division may permit accounting practices which differ from those prescribed by the Manual. None of our statutory accounting practices differed materially from those prescribed by the Manual. Several differences exist between GAAP and statutory accounting practices. Principally, under statutory accounting, deferred acquisition costs are not capitalized, fixed maturity securities are generally carried at amortized cost, insurance liabilities are presented net of reinsurance, contract holder liabilities are generally valued using more conservative assumptions and certain assets are non-admitted.
	Farm Bureau Life has a subsidiary, Greenfields, which launched in 2013 and is regulated by the Colorado Division of Insurance. Greenfields' operations are immaterial and implicitly included in the financial results of Farm Bureau Life below.
	Farm Bureau Life Statutory Information
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Net gain from operations (excludes impact of realized gains and losses on investments)	$	97,799		$	93,306		$	92,988
	Net income	97,393			94,583			86,589
		December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Capital and surplus	$	552,021		$	492,450
	Unassigned surplus	418,538			358,967
	Risk-Based Capital measurements:
	Total adjusted capital	614,201			558,355
	Company action level capital	112,771			111,792
	RBC Ratio	545		%	499		%
	State laws specify regulatory actions if an insurer's risk-based capital (RBC) ratio, a measure of solvency, falls below certain levels. The NAIC has a standard formula for annually assessing RBC based on the various risk factors related to an insurance company's capital and surplus, including insurance, business, asset and interest rate risks. The insurance regulators monitor the level of RBC against a statutory "authorized control level" RBC at which point regulators have the option to assume control of the insurance company. The company action level RBC is 200% of the authorized control level and is the first point at which any action would be triggered.
	Farm Bureau Life's ability to pay dividends to the parent company is restricted by the Iowa Insurance Holding Company Act to earned surplus arising from its business as of the date the dividend is paid. In addition, prior approval of the Iowa Insurance Commissioner is required for a dividend distribution of cash or other property whose fair value, together with that of other dividends made within the preceding 12 months, exceeds the greater of (i) 10% of policyholders' surplus as of the preceding year end, or (ii) the statutory net gain from operations of the insurer for the preceding calendar year. As shown in the tables above, at December 31, 2014, Farm Bureau Life’s net gain from operations, exceeded 10% of statutory surplus, therefore, the maximum amount available for distribution to FBL Financial Group, Inc. from Farm Bureau Life without regulatory approval during 2015 is $97.8 million. However, due to the timing of a $45.0 million dividend paid by Farm Bureau Life on December 18, 2014, the maximum dividend available to be paid without further regulatory approval until December 19, 2015 is $52.8 million.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	Segment Information
	We analyze operations by reviewing financial information regarding our primary products that are aggregated into the Annuity and Life Insurance product segments. In addition, our Corporate and Other segment includes various support operations, corporate capital and other product lines that are not currently underwritten by the Company.
	The Annuity segment primarily consists of fixed rate annuities and supplementary contracts (some of which involve life contingencies). Fixed rate annuities provide for tax-deferred savings and supplementary contracts provide for the systematic repayment of funds that accumulate interest. Fixed rate annuities primarily consist of flexible premium deferred annuities, but also include single premium deferred and immediate contracts. With fixed rate annuities, we bear the underlying investment risk and credit interest to the contracts at rates we determine, subject to interest rate guarantees. We began selling our new index annuity product in 2012. With index annuity products, we bear the underlying investment risk and credit interest in an amount equal to a percentage of the gain in a specified market index, subject to minimum guarantees.
	The Life Insurance segment consists of whole life, term life and universal life policies. These policies provide benefits upon the death of the insured and may also allow the customer to build cash value on a tax-deferred basis.
	The Corporate and Other segment consists of the following corporate items and products/services that do not meet the quantitative threshold for separate segment reporting:
	•	investments and related investment income not specifically allocated to our product segments,
	•	interest expense,
	•	closed blocks of variable annuity, variable universal life insurance and accident and health insurance products,
	•	advisory services for the management of investments and other companies,
	•	marketing and distribution services for the sale of mutual funds and insurance products not issued by us, and
	•	leasing services with affiliates.
	We analyze our segment results based on pre-tax operating income. Accordingly, income taxes are not allocated to the segments. In addition, operating results are reported net of transactions between the segments. Operating income for the three years ended December 31, 2014 represents net income excluding, as applicable, the impact of:
	•	realized gains and losses on investments,
	•	changes in net unrealized gains and losses on derivatives,
	•	discontinued operations and
	•	loss on debt redemption associated with disposed operations.
	We use operating income, in addition to net income, to measure our performance since realized gains and losses on investments and the change in net unrealized gains and losses on derivatives can fluctuate greatly from year to year. Also, the discontinued operations and related loss on debt redemption are nonrecurring items. A view of our operating performance without the impact of these items enhances the analysis of our results. We use operating income for goal setting, determining short-term incentive compensation and evaluating performance on a basis comparable to that used by many in the investment community.
	Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Operating revenues:
	Annuity	$	203,477			$	197,539			$	192,001
	Life Insurance	390,609				385,325				367,853
	Corporate and Other	93,646				96,775				93,443
		687,732				679,639				653,297
	Realized gains on investments (1)	2,937				13,597				465
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	2,270				(2,005		)		1,778
	Consolidated revenues	$	692,939			$	691,231			$	655,540
	Net investment income:
	Annuity	$	201,550			196,303				191,211
	Life Insurance	146,349				140,510				138,076
	Corporate and Other	31,913				35,843				30,259
		379,812				372,656				359,546
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	2,270				(2,005		)		1,778
	Consolidated net investment income	$	382,082			$	370,651			$	361,324
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Annuity	$	5,709			$	7,186			$	8,271
	Life Insurance	20,027				19,430				25,727
	Corporate and Other	2,895				2,157				5,225
		28,631				28,773				39,223
	Realized gains on investments (1)	189				973				1,200
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	125				(1,324		)		709
	Consolidated depreciation and amortization	$	28,945			$	28,422			$	41,132
	Pre-tax operating income:
	Annuity	$	65,056			$	63,592			$	55,910
	Life Insurance	51,521				48,814				43,741
	Corporate and Other	22,865				22,172				16,856
		139,442				134,578				116,507
	Income taxes on operating income	(32,401		)		(33,985		)		(33,748		)
	Realized gains/losses on investments (1)	1,786				8,206				(477		)
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	1,114				(241		)		619
	Loss on debt redemption (1)	—				—				(22		)
	Loss from discontinued operations	—				—				(2,939		)
	Consolidated net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$	109,941			$	108,558			$	79,940
	Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments - continued
		December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets:
	Annuity	$	3,981,825			$	3,778,018
	Life Insurance	2,956,347				2,789,145
	Corporate and Other	1,715,241				1,701,368
		8,653,413				8,268,531
Unrealized gains in accumulated other comprehensive income (2)	410,995				192,792
Consolidated assets	$	9,064,408			$	8,461,323
-1	Amounts are net of adjustments, as applicable, to amortization of unearned revenue reserves, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired and income taxes attributable to these items.
-2	Amounts are net adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs and value of insurance in force acquired and deferred income taxes attributable to these items.
Depreciation and amortization related to property and equipment are allocated to the product segments while the related property, equipment and capitalized software are allocated to the Corporate and Other segment. Depreciation and amortization for the Corporate and Other segment include $3.1 million for 2014, $2.2 million for 2013 and $2.4 million for 2012 relating to leases with affiliates. In the consolidated statements of operations, we record these depreciation amounts net of related lease income from affiliates.
Our investment in equity method investees, the related equity income and interest expense are attributable to the Corporate and Other segment. Expenditures for long-lived assets were not significant during the periods presented above. Goodwill at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was allocated among the segments as follows: Annuity ($3.9 million) and Life Insurance ($6.1 million).
Premiums collected, which is not a measure used in financial statements prepared according to GAAP, include premiums received on life insurance policies and deposits on annuities and universal life-type products. Net premiums collected totaled $646.6 million in 2014, $635.6 million in 2013 and $646.3 million in 2012.
Under GAAP, premiums on whole life and term life policies are recognized as revenues over the premium-paying period and reported in the Life Insurance segment. The following chart provides a reconciliation of life insurance premiums collected to those reported in the GAAP financial statements.
Reconciliation of Traditional Life Insurance Premiums, Net of Reinsurance
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
Traditional and universal life insurance premiums collected	$	282,098			$	307,474			$	255,709
Premiums collected on interest sensitive products	(98,796		)		(127,271		)		(81,212		)
Traditional life insurance premiums collected	183,302				180,203				174,497
Change in due premiums and other	(2		)		741				589
Traditional life insurance premiums	$	183,300			$	180,944			$	175,086
There is no comparable GAAP financial measure for premiums collected on annuities and universal life-type products. GAAP revenues for those interest sensitive and variable products consist of various policy charges and fees assessed on those contracts, as summarized in the chart below.
Interest Sensitive Product Charges by Segment
	Year ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
Annuity
Surrender charges and other	$	1,927			$	1,236			$	775
Life Insurance
Administration charges	$	13,783			$	19,602			$	11,726
Cost of insurance charges	45,273				42,697				39,886
Surrender charges	737				484				943
Amortization of policy initiation fees	1,504				1,462				2,354
Total	$	61,297			$	64,245			$	54,909
Corporate and Other
Administration charges	$	6,212			$	6,138			$	5,975
Cost of insurance charges	29,569				29,567				29,638
Surrender charges	479				525				780
Separate account charges	9,157				8,742				8,372
Amortization of policy initiation fees	1,129				1,122				961
Total	$	46,546			$	46,094			$	45,726
Consolidated interest sensitive product charges	$	109,770			$	111,575			$	101,410
Premium Concentration by State
	Year ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Life and annuity collected premiums:
Iowa	25.7	%		27.6	%		28.7	%
Kansas	20.8			20			21.9
Oklahoma	8.2			7.7			7.3

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio

Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
	Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations
		2014
	Quarter ended	March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Premiums and product charges	$	72,583		$	74,805	$	72,653	$	73,029
	Net investment income	92,631			95,215		95,744		98,492
	Realized gains (losses) on investments	(540		)	2,806		1,000		(328		)
	Total revenues	168,535			175,837		173,420		175,147
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	22,992			28,642		30,159		28,148
	Earnings per common share	$	0.92		$	1.15	$	1.21	$	1.13
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$	0.91		$	1.14	$	1.21	$	1.13
		2013
	Quarter ended	March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Premiums and product charges	$	70,238		$	72,853	$	76,153	$	73,275
	Net investment income	90,810			92,898		93,382		93,561
	Realized gains on investments	3,286			7,236		693		2,340
	Total revenues	168,048			176,683		173,516		172,984
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	24,966			29,587		27,053		26,952
	Earnings per common share	$	0.97		$	1.14	$	1.05	$	1.08
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$	0.96		$	1.13	$	1.04	$	1.07

Sale_of_EquiTrust_Life_Busines

Sale of EquiTrust Life Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
EquiTrust Sale [Text Block]	Sale of EquiTrust Life Business
	On December 30, 2011, we sold our wholly-owned subsidiary, EquiTrust Life. We recognized an additional loss on the sale of subsidiary of $2.3 million, net of tax, during the first quarter of 2012 as a result of post-closing sales price adjustments. As a result of the sale, our consolidated financial statements are presented to reflect the operations of the component sold as discontinued operations. A summary of loss from discontinued operations is as follows:
	Condensed Statements of Loss from Discontinued Operations
		Year ended December 31, 2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Benefits and expenses	$	(214	)
	Interest expense allocation	(855		)
	Income taxes	382
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	(687	)
	Note Redemptions
	In connection with the EquiTrust Life Sale, during 2012, we completed the required redemption of $175.0 million of our long-term debt in accordance with the mandatory redemption provisions of the underlying notes. The make-whole redemption price of $210.9 million, which included repayment of principal, accrued interest and a make-whole premium, was funded from assets held in two irrevocable defeasance trusts. The make-whole redemption premium was based on U.S. Treasury yields and considered an embedded derivative with a fair value of $33.1 million at December 31, 2011. The change in fair value during 2012 was offset by the write off of deferred debt issuance costs and reported with the loss on debt redemption in the consolidated statements of operations.

Sch_I_Schedule_of_Investments

Sch I. Schedule of Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Investments [Abstract]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Text Block]	Schedule I - Summary of Investments - Other
	Than Investments in Related Parties
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
	31-Dec-14
	Column A		Column B		Column C		Column D
	Type of Investment		Cost (1)		Value		Amount at which
							shown in the balance
							sheet
			(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities, available for sale:
	Bonds:
	Corporate		$	3,335,535	$	3,666,906	$	3,666,906
	Mortgage and asset-backed		1,447,631		1,543,490		1,543,490
	United States Government and agencies		38,227		42,804		42,804
	State, municipal and other governments		1,290,040		1,447,498		1,447,498
	Total		6,111,433		$	6,700,698	6,700,698
	Equity securities, available for sale:
	Common stocks:
	Banks, trusts and insurance companies		23,808		$	23,808	23,808
	Industrial, miscellaneous and all other		3,036		3,774		3,774
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks		80,566		85,041		85,041
	Total		107,410		$	112,623	112,623
	Mortgage loans		630,172				629,296
	Investment real estate (2)		4,032				3,622
	Policy loans		182,502				182,502
	Short-term investments		48,585				48,585
	Other investments		2,413				3,644
	Total investments		$	7,086,547			$	7,680,970
	-1	On the basis of cost adjusted for repayments and amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts for fixed maturities and short-term investments; original cost for equity securities, real estate and other investments; and unpaid principal balance for mortgage loans and policy loans.
	-2	Amount shown on balance sheet differs from cost due to depreciation and allowance for possible losses deducted from cost.

Sch_II_Condensed_Financial_Inf

Sch II - Condensed Financial Information on Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule II. Condensed Financial Information of Registrant [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]	Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. (PARENT COMPANY)
	Condensed Balance Sheets
	(Dollars in thousands)
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Assets
	Investments in subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	$	1,226,389		$	1,021,684
	Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost: 2014 - $51,052; 2013 - $69,240)	53,907			71,507
	Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $269)	273			—
	Short-term investments	13,461			31,078
	Cash and cash equivalents	46,042			—
	Amounts receivable from affiliates	2,666			3,145
	Amounts receivable from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	—			597
	Accrued investment income	77			276
	Current income taxes recoverable	425			—
	Deferred income tax assets	17,522			21,879
	Other assets	9,235			9,489
	Total assets	$	1,369,997		$	1,159,655
	Liabilities and stockholders' equity
	Liabilities:
	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	19,401		$	17,028
	Amounts payable to affiliates	188			408
	Amounts payable from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	564			—
	Current income taxes	—			478
	Long-term debt payable to non-affiliates	97,000			97,000
	Total liabilities	117,153			114,914
	Stockholders' equity:
	Preferred stock	3,000			3,000
	Class A common stock	144,625			134,993
	Class B common stock	72			72
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	258,410			119,067
	Retained earnings	846,737			787,609
	Total stockholders' equity	1,252,844			1,044,741
	Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	1,369,997		$	1,159,655
	See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.
	Schedule II -Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Continued)
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. (PARENT COMPANY)
	Condensed Statements of Operations
	(Dollars in thousands)
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Revenues:
	Net investment income	$	2,689		$	2,120		$	557
	Realized gains (losses) on investments	1,047			33			(25		)
	Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	45,700			140,000			45,000
	Management fee income from affiliates	1,925			1,760			1,907
	Management fee income from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	8,836			2,072			2,255
	Other income	7			22			3,804
	Total revenues	60,204			146,007			53,498
	Expenses:
	Interest expense	4,723			6,967			7,935
	Loss on debt redemption	—			—			33
	General and administrative expenses	8,471			9,582			12,902
	Total expenses	13,194			16,549			20,870
		47,010			129,458			32,628
	Income tax benefit	1,011			5,316			4,010
	Income before equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries	48,021			134,774			36,638
	Equity in undistributed income (dividends in excess of equity income) of subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	61,920			(26,216		)	46,241
	Net income from continuing operations	109,941			108,558			82,879
	Discontinued operations:
	Loss on sale of subsidiary, net of tax benefit	—			—			(2,252		)
	Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	—			—			(687		)
	Total loss from discontinued operations	—			—			(2,939		)
Net income	$	109,941		$	108,558		$	79,940
See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Continued)
FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. (PARENT COMPANY)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)
	Year ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	4,200		$	(5,750	)	$	(3,984	)
Investing activities
Sales of fixed maturities - available for sale	21,347			45,808			793
Acquisitions of fixed maturities - available for sale	—			(15,192		)	(4,866		)
Acquisitions of equity securities - available for sale	(269		)	—			—
Short-term investments, net change	17,617			(6,577		)	11,045
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	45,700			92,135			5,089
Proceeds received from sale of subsidiary	—			—			(9,315		)
Net cash provided by investing activities	84,395			116,174			2,746
Financing activities
Transfer from restricted debt defeasance trusts	—			—			211,627
Repayments of debt	—			(50,000		)	(174,258		)
Excess tax deductions on stock-based compensation	1,199			1,964			2,393
Repurchase of common stock, net	(8,003		)	(43,707		)	(173,253		)
Capital contribution to subsidiary	(1,000		)	(1,900		)	(2,000		)
Dividends paid	(34,749		)	(64,775		)	(11,082		)
Net cash used in financing activities	(42,553		)	(158,418		)	(146,573		)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	46,042			(47,994		)	(147,811		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	—			47,994			195,805
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	46,042		$	—		$	47,994
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Cash received (paid) during the year for:
Income taxes	$	6,927		$	9,182		$	54,237
Interest	(4,850		)	(7,104		)	(11,383		)
Non-cash investing activity:
Dividend from subsidiary in the form of securities	—			47,865			39,911
See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Continued)
FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. (PARENT COMPANY)
Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
31-Dec-14
1. Basis of Presentation
The accompanying condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of FBL Financial Group, Inc.
In the parent company only financial statements, our investments in subsidiaries are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries since the date of acquisition. In addition, the carrying value includes net unrealized gains/losses on the subsidiaries' investments classified as "available for sale."
2. Dividends from Subsidiaries
The parent company received dividends totaling $45.7 million in 2014, $140.0 million in 2013 and $45.0 million in 2012 in the form of cash ($45.7 million in 2014, $92.1 million in 2013 and $5.1 million in 2012) and securities ($47.9 million in 2013 and $39.9 million in 2012).
3. Debt
See Note 6 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 for a description of the parent company's debt, including items paid off. The company's debt matures in 2047.

Sch_III_Supplementary_Insuranc

Sch III Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule III. Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Supplementary Insurance Information, for Insurance Companies Disclosure [Text Block]	Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
	Column A	Column B			Column C			Column D			Column E
		Deferred acquisition costs			Future policy			Unearned			Other
					benefits, losses,			revenues			policyholder
					claims and loss						funds
					expenses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2014:
	Annuity	$	82,778		$	3,370,109		$	—		$	372,244
	Life Insurance	232,020			2,372,108			10,111			193,567
	Corporate and Other	85,506			394,536			13,428			24,823
	Impact of unrealized gains/losses	(179,544		)	11,182			(11,461		)	—
	Total	$	220,760		$	6,147,935		$	12,078		$	590,634
	December 31, 2013:
	Annuity	$	82,404		$	3,172,598		$	—		$	376,879
	Life Insurance	216,743			2,254,194			8,884			191,478
	Corporate and Other	91,917			389,746			13,951			21,845
	Impact of unrealized gains/losses	(55,550		)	2,957			(2,790		)	—
	Total	$	335,514		$	5,819,495		$	20,045		$	590,202
	December 31, 2012:
	Annuity	$	82,396		$	3,047,762		$	—		$	384,375
	Life Insurance	199,266			2,104,973			13,585			182,597
	Corporate and Other	94,984			379,708			14,519			20,786
	Impact of unrealized gains/losses	(172,320		)	—			(13,554		)	—
	Total	$	204,326		$	5,532,443		$	14,550		$	587,758
	Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Continued)
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
	Column A	Column F			Column G			Column H			Column I			Column J
		Premium			Net			Benefits,			Amortization			Other
		revenue			investment			claims, losses			of deferred			operating
					income			and			acquisition			expenses
								settlement			costs
								expenses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	December 31, 2014:
	Annuity	$	1,927		$	201,550		$	105,669		$	10,477		$	22,275
	Life Insurance	244,597			146,349			238,841			15,594			72,641
	Corporate and Other	46,547			31,913			29,470			6,929			10,032
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives	—			2,270			432			125			—
	Impact of realized gains/losses	(1		)	—			4			178			7
	Total	$	293,070		$	382,082		$	374,416		$	33,303		$	104,955
	December 31, 2013:
	Annuity	$	1,236		$	196,303		$	102,308		$	9,422		$	22,217
	Life Insurance	245,148			140,510			231,861			15,760			75,571
	Corporate and Other	46,093			35,843			30,183			5,170			10,499
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives	—			(2,005		)	(310		)	(1,324		)	—
	Impact of realized gains/losses	42			—			28			880			65
	Total	$	292,519		$	370,651		$	364,070		$	29,908		$	108,352
	December 31, 2012:
	Annuity	$	775		$	191,211		$	102,961		$	9,327		$	23,803
	Life Insurance	229,986			138,076			218,856			21,216			69,765
	Corporate and Other	45,722			30,259			30,721			5,326			10,582
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives	—			1,778			117			709			—
	Impact of realized gains/losses	13			—			22			1,073			105
	Total	$	276,496		$	361,324		$	352,677		$	37,651		$	104,255

Sch_IV_Reinsurance

Sch IV Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule IV. Reinsurance [Abstract]
Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Text Block]	Schedule IV - Reinsurance
	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
	Column A	Column B		Column C		Column D		Column E		Column F
		Gross		Ceded to		Assumed		Net amount		Percent of
		amount		other		from other				amount
				companies		companies				assumed to net
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Year ended December 31, 2014:
	Life insurance in force, at end of year	$	57,010,809	$	13,837,869	$	592,022	$	43,764,962	1.4	%
	Insurance premiums and other considerations:
	Interest sensitive product charges	$	110,431	$	1,026	$	365	$	109,770	0.3	%
	Traditional life insurance premiums	206,701		23,819		418		183,300		0.2
	Accident and health premiums	8,050		7,668		—		382		—
		$	325,182	$	32,513	$	783	$	293,452	0.3
	Year ended December 31, 2013:
	Life insurance in force, at end of year	$	54,603,479	$	13,220,004	$	613,281	$	41,996,756	1.5	%
	Insurance premiums and other considerations:
	Interest sensitive product charges	$	112,229	$	1,026	$	372	$	111,575	0.3	%
	Traditional life insurance premiums	200,729		20,199		414		180,944		0.2
	Accident and health premiums	8,540		8,135		—		405		—
		$	321,498	$	29,360	$	786	$	292,924	0.3
	Year ended December 31, 2012:
	Life insurance in force, at end of year	$	51,955,217	$	11,999,297	$	612,850	$	40,568,770	1.5	%
	Insurance premiums and other considerations:
	Interest sensitive product charges	$	102,027	$	1,010	$	393	$	101,410	0.4	%
	Traditional life insurance premiums	194,090		19,249		245		175,086		0.1
	Accident and health premiums	9,012		8,604		—		408		—
		$	305,129	$	28,863	$	638	$	276,904	0.2

Significant_Accounting_Policie1

Significant Accounting Policies Level 2 (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation, Policy	Consolidation
	Our consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its direct and indirect subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated.
Reinsurance Accounting Policy	Reinsurance Recoverable
	We use reinsurance to manage certain risks associated with our insurance operations. These reinsurance arrangements provide for greater diversification of business, allow management to control exposure to potential risks arising from large claims and provide additional capacity for growth. For business ceded to other companies, reinsurance recoverable includes the reinsurers' share of policyholder liabilities, claims and expenses, net of amounts due the reinsurers for premiums. For business assumed from other companies, reinsurance recoverable includes premium receivable, net of our share of benefits and expenses we owe to the ceding company.
	Fair values for the embedded derivatives in our modified coinsurance contracts are based on the difference between the fair value and the cost basis of the underlying investments. See Note 2 for more information regarding derivatives and Note 4 for additional details on our reinsurance agreements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For purposes of our consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Marketable Securities, Policy	Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities
	Fixed maturities, comprised of bonds and redeemable preferred stock, which may be sold, are designated as "available for sale." Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized gains and losses on these securities are included directly in stockholders' equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The unrealized gains and losses are reduced by a provision for deferred income taxes and adjustments to deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities that would have been required as a charge or credit to income had such amounts been realized.
	Premiums and discounts are amortized/accrued using methods which result in a constant yield over the securities' expected lives. Amortization/accrual of premiums and discounts on mortgage and asset-backed securities incorporates prepayment assumptions to estimate the securities' expected lives.
	Equity securities, comprised of mutual funds and common and non-redeemable preferred stocks, are designated as "available for sale" and are reported at fair value. The change in unrealized gains and losses of equity securities is included directly in stockholders' equity, net of any related deferred income taxes, as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
Investment, Policy	Mortgage Loans
	Mortgage loans are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts. If we determine that the value of any mortgage loan is impaired (i.e., when it is probable we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to its fair value, which may be based upon the present value of expected future cash flows from the loan, or the fair value of the underlying collateral. We evaluate each of our mortgage loans individually and establish an estimated loss, if needed, for each impaired loan identified. The carrying value of each specific loan is reduced by the estimated loss. Interest income is accrued on impaired loans to the extent it is deemed collectible (generally delinquent less than 90 days) and the loan continues to perform under its original or restructured contractual terms. Interest income on non-performing loans is generally recognized on a cash basis. Once mortgage loans are classified as nonaccrual loans, the resumption of the interest accrual would commence only after all past-due interest has been collected or the mortgage loan has been restructured such that the collection of interest is considered likely.
	Real Estate
	Real estate is reported at cost less allowances for depreciation, as applicable. The carrying value of these assets is subject to regular review. For properties not held for sale, if indicators of impairment are present and a property's expected undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to recover the property's carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized and the property's cost basis is reduced to fair value. If the fair value, less estimated sales costs, of real estate held for sale decreases to an amount lower than its carrying value, the carrying value of the real estate is reduced by the establishment of a valuation allowance recognized as a realized loss on investments. There were two properties held for investment with an impairment charge of $0.4 million as of December 31, 2014 and one property held for investment with an impairment charge of less than $0.1 million as of December 31, 2013. There were no properties held for sale as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Other Investments
	Policy loans are reported at unpaid principal balance. Short-term investments, which include investments with remaining maturities of one year or less, but greater than three months at the time of acquisition, are reported at cost adjusted for amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts. Other investments include call options, which are carried at fair value, and our ownership interest in aircraft acquired in a troubled debt restructuring with a bond issuer that filed for bankruptcy. The ownership interest in the aircraft is reported at cost, less accumulated depreciation.
	We have embedded derivatives associated with modified coinsurance contracts, which are included within reinsurance recoverable. These instruments are carried at fair value with changes reflected in net investment income. See Note 2 for more information regarding our derivative instruments.
	Securities and indebtedness of related parties include investments in corporations and partnerships over which we may exercise significant influence and those investments for which we are required to use the equity method of accounting. These corporations and partnerships operate predominately in the investment company, real estate, broker/dealer and insurance industries and include low income housing tax credit-generating partnerships. Such investments are accounted for using the equity method. In applying the equity method, we record our share of income or loss reported by the equity investees. For partnerships operating in the investment company industry, this income or loss includes changes in unrealized gains and losses in the partnerships' investment portfolios.
	Accrued Investment Income
	We discontinue the accrual of investment income on invested assets when it is determined that it is probable that we will not collect the income.
	Realized Gains and Losses on Investments
	Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of specific identification. The carrying values of all our investments are reviewed on an ongoing basis for credit deterioration. When our review indicates a decline in fair value for a fixed maturity security is an other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) and we do not intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell the security before recovery of our amortized cost, a specific write down is charged to earnings for the credit loss and a specific charge is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income for the non-credit loss component. If we intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell a fixed maturity security before its recovery, the full amount of the impairment write down to fair value is charged to earnings. For all equity securities, the full amount of an OTTI write down is recognized as a realized loss on investments in the consolidated statements of operations and the new cost basis for the security is equal to its fair value.
	We monitor the financial condition and operations of the issuers of fixed maturities and equity securities that could potentially have a credit impairment that is OTTI. In determining whether or not an unrealized loss is OTTI, we review factors such as:
	•	historical operating trends;
	•	business prospects;
	•	status of the industry in which the company operates;
	•	analyst ratings on the issuer and sector;
	•	quality of management;
	•	size of unrealized loss;
	•	level of current market interest rates compared to market interest rates when the security was purchased; and
	•	length of time the security has been in an unrealized loss position.
	In order to determine the credit and non-credit impairment loss for fixed maturities, every quarter we estimate the future cash flows we expect to receive over the remaining life of the instrument as well as review our plans to hold or sell the instrument. Significant assumptions regarding the present value of expected cash flows for each security are used when an OTTI occurs and there is a non-credit portion of the unrealized loss that won't be recognized in earnings. Our assumptions for residential mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities include collateral pledged, guarantees, vintage, anticipated principal and interest payments, prepayments, default levels, severity assumptions, delinquency rates and the level of nonperforming assets for the remainder of the investments' expected term. We use a single best estimate of cash flows approach and use the effective yield prior to the date of impairment to calculate the present value of cash flows. Our assumptions for corporate and other fixed maturities include anticipated principal and interest payments and an estimated recovery value, generally based on a percentage return of the current fair value.
	After an OTTI write down of all equity securities and any fixed maturities with a credit-only impairment, the cost basis is not adjusted for subsequent recoveries in fair value. For fixed maturities for which we can reasonably estimate future cash flows after a write down, the discount or reduced premium recorded, based on the new cost basis, is amortized over the remaining life of the security. Amortization in this instance is computed using the prospective method and the current estimate of the amount and timing of future cash flows.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy	Fair Values
	Fair values of fixed maturities are based on quoted market prices in active markets when available. Fair values of fixed maturities that are not actively traded are estimated using valuation methods that vary by asset class. Fair values of redeemable preferred stocks, equity securities and derivative investments are based on the latest quoted market prices, or for those items not readily marketable, generally at values which are representative of the fair values of comparable issues. Fair values for all securities are reviewed for reasonableness by considering overall market conditions and values for similar securities. See Note 3 for more information on our fair value policies, including assumptions and the amount of securities priced using the valuation models.
Capitalization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs, Policy	Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Insurance In Force Acquired
	Deferred acquisition costs include certain costs of successfully acquiring new insurance business, including commissions and other expenses related to the production of new business, to the extent recoverable from future policy revenues and gross profits. Also included are premium bonuses and bonus interest credited to contracts during the first contract year only. The value of insurance in force acquired represents the cost assigned to insurance contracts when an insurance company is acquired. The initial value is determined by an actuarial study using expected future gross profits as a measurement of the net present value of the insurance acquired. Interest accrued on the unamortized balance at a weighted average rate of 3.90% in 2014, 4.56% in 2013 and 4.70% in 2012.
	For participating traditional life insurance and interest sensitive products, these costs are being amortized generally in proportion to expected gross margins or gross profits. That amortization is adjusted retrospectively through an unlocking process when estimates of current or future gross profits/margins (including the impact of investment gains and losses) to be realized from a group of products are revised. For nonparticipating traditional life products, these costs are amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies, in proportion to the ratio of annual premium revenues to total anticipated premium revenues. Such anticipated premium revenues are estimated using the same assumptions used for computing liabilities for future policy benefits.
	All insurance and investment contract modifications and replacements are reviewed to determine if the internal replacement results in a substantially changed contract. If so, the acquisition costs, sales inducements and unearned revenue associated with the new contract are deferred and amortized over the lifetime of the new contract. In addition, the existing deferred policy acquisition costs, sales inducement costs and unearned revenue balances associated with the replaced contract are written off. If an internal replacement results in a substantially unchanged contract, the acquisition costs, sales inducements and unearned revenue associated with the new contract are immediately recognized in the period incurred. In addition, the existing deferred policy acquisition costs, sales inducement costs or unearned revenue balance associated with the replaced contract is not written off, but instead is carried over to the new contract.
Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization, Policy	Other Assets
	Other assets include property and equipment, primarily comprised of capitalized software costs and furniture and equipment, which are reported at cost less allowances for depreciation and amortization. We expense costs incurred in the preliminary stages of developing internal-use software as well as costs incurred post-implementation for maintenance. Capitalization of internal-use software costs occurs after management has authorized the project and it is probable that the software will be used as intended. Amortization of software costs begins after the software has been placed in production. Depreciation and amortization expense is computed primarily using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from two to twenty years. Property and equipment had a carrying value of $28.6 million at December 31, 2014 and $25.8 million at December 31, 2013, and accumulated depreciation and amortization of $53.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $50.3 million at December 31, 2013. Depreciation and amortization expense for property and equipment was $6.3 million in 2014, $4.6 million in 2013 and $4.8 million in 2012.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy	Other assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, also includes goodwill of $9.9 million related to the excess of the amounts paid to acquire companies over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized but is subject to annual impairment testing. We evaluate our goodwill balance by comparing the fair value of our reporting units to the carrying value of the goodwill. We conduct a qualitative impairment review at least annually as well as when indicators suggest an impairment may have occurred to determine if indicators of deterioration in the business would suggest its value has declined below the carrying value of goodwill. Such circumstances include changes in the competitive or overall economic environment or other business condition changes that may negatively impact the value of the underlying business. On a periodic basis, as well as in the event circumstances indicate the value of the business may have declined significantly, we will estimate the value of the business using discounted cash flow techniques. We believe this approach better approximates the fair value of our goodwill than a market capitalization approach. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the application of the discounted cash flow model to forecast operating cash flows, including future premiums, product lapses, investment yields and discount rate. Underlying assumptions are based on historical experience and our best estimates given information available at the time of testing. As a result of our impairment review, we have determined our goodwill was not impaired as of December 31, 2014 or 2013.
Future Policy Benefits Liability, Policy	Future Policy Benefits
	Future policy benefit reserves for interest sensitive products are computed under a retrospective deposit method and represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. We also have additional benefit reserves that are established for annuity or universal life-type contracts that provide benefit guarantees, or for contracts that are expected to produce profits followed by losses. The liabilities are accrued in relation to estimated contract assessments. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expense include benefit claims incurred in the period in excess of related policy account balances. Interest crediting rates for our interest sensitive products ranged from 1.00% to 5.50% in 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	The liability for future policy benefits for direct participating traditional life insurance is based on net level premium reserves, including assumptions as to interest, mortality and other factors underlying the guaranteed policy cash values. Reserve interest assumptions are level and range from 2.00% to 6.00%. The average rate of assumed investment yields used in estimating gross margins was 5.75% in 2014 and 5.84% in 2013 and 2012. The liability for future policy benefits for non-participating traditional life insurance is computed using a net level method, including assumptions as to mortality, persistency and interest and includes provisions for possible unfavorable deviations.
	The liabilities for future policy benefits for accident and health insurance are computed using a net level (or an equivalent) method, including assumptions as to morbidity, mortality and interest and include provisions for possible unfavorable deviations. Policy benefit claims are charged to expense in the period that the claims are incurred.
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue, Policy	Other Policy Claims and Benefits
	We have unearned revenue reserves that reflect the unamortized balance of charges assessed to interest sensitive contract holders to compensate us for services to be performed over future periods (policy initiation fees). These charges have been deferred and are being recognized in income over the period benefited using the same assumptions and factors used to amortize deferred acquisition costs.
Policyholders' Dividend, Policy	We have accrued dividends for participating business that are established for anticipated amounts earned to date that have not been paid. The declaration of future dividends for participating business is at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Farm Bureau Life. Participating business accounted for 30% of receipts from policyholders during 2014 (2013 - 30% and 2012 - 35%) and represented 11% of life insurance in force at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and 12% in 2012.
Income Tax, Policy	Deferred Income Taxes
	Deferred income tax assets or liabilities are computed based on the difference between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities using the enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when the assets or liabilities are recovered or settled. Deferred income tax expenses or credits are based on the changes in the asset or liability from period to period. A valuation allowance against deferred income tax assets is established if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized.
Policyholder Accounts, Policy	Separate Accounts
	The separate account assets and liabilities reported in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets represent funds that are separately administered for the benefit of certain policyholders that bear the underlying investment risk. The separate account assets are carried at fair value and separate account liabilities represent policy account balances before applicable surrender charges. Revenues and expenses related to the separate account assets and liabilities, to the extent of benefits paid or provided to the separate account policyholders, are excluded from the amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
Revenue Recognition, Premiums Earned, Policy	Recognition of Premium Revenues and Costs
	Revenues for interest sensitive and variable products consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, asset charges, administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed against policyholder account balances. The timing of revenue recognition as it relates to these charges and fees is determined based on the nature of such charges and fees. Policy charges for the cost of insurance, asset charges and policy administration charges are assessed on a daily or monthly basis and are recognized as revenue when assessed and earned. Certain policy initiation fees that represent compensation for services to be provided in the future are reported as unearned revenue and recognized in income over the periods benefited. Surrender charges are determined based upon contractual terms and are recognized upon surrender of a contract. Policy benefits and claims charged to expense include interest amounts credited to policyholder account balances and benefit claims incurred in excess of policyholder account balances during the period. Amortization of deferred acquisition costs is recognized as expense over the life of the policy.
	Traditional life insurance premiums are recognized as revenues over the premium-paying period. Future policy benefits and policy acquisition costs are recognized as expenses over the life of the policy by means of the provision for future policy benefits and amortization of deferred acquisition costs.
	All insurance-related revenues, benefits and expenses are reported net of reinsurance ceded. The cost of reinsurance ceded is recognized over the contract periods of the reinsurance agreements. Policies and contracts assumed are accounted for in a manner similar to that followed for direct business.
	Underwriting, Acquisition and Insurance Expenses
		Year ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses:
	Commission expense, net of deferrals	$	22,856	$	27,410	$	23,712
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	33,303		29,908		37,651
	Amortization of value of insurance in force acquired	3,500		2,565		5,562
	Other underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses, net of deferrals	78,599		78,377		74,981
	Total	$	138,258	$	138,260	$	141,906
Discontinued Operations, Policy	Discontinued Operations
	Upon the sale of EquiTrust Life our independent distribution business segment was discontinued. Discontinued operations are those in which we no longer have any significant continuing involvement in the operations after the disposal transaction. The results of discontinued operations are segregated from our continuing operations and reported as loss from discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of operations for current and prior periods. The loss recognized on the disposal is also reported as a component of discontinued operations. Components of the loss from discontinued operations are separately disclosed in Note 15.
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy	Retirement and Compensation Plans
	We participate with affiliates in defined benefit pension plans, including a multiemployer plan. The multiemployer plan records an asset or liability based on the difference between contributions made to the plan to date and expense recognized for the plan to date. The obligations for the single employer plans are based on an actuarial valuation of future benefits. For the multiemployer plan, our contributions are commingled with those of the other employers to fund the plan benefit obligations. Should a participating employer be unable to provide funding, the remaining employers would be required to continue funding all future obligations. We employ a long-term investment strategy of maintaining diversified plan assets. The expected return on plan assets is set at the long-term rate expected to be earned based on the long-term investment strategy of the plans for assets at the end of the reporting period.
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy	We have a Cash-Based Restricted Stock Unit Plan. Performance and non-performance units are awarded under this plan. In addition to meeting the performance goals, the performance units are subject to a five-year vesting schedule. The non-performance units awarded under this plan vest over five years. The amount payable per unit awarded is equal to the price per share of the Company's common stock at settlement of the award, and as such, we measure the value of the award each reporting period based on the current stock price. The expense related to the performance units is based on the number of units expected to vest and is recognized over the required service period. The expense related to the non-performance units is recognized over the five-year vesting schedule. The impact of forfeitures is estimated and compensation expense is recognized only for those units expected to vest.
	We also have share-based payment arrangements under our Class A Common Stock Compensation Plan, although no new awards have been made since 2011. We recognize compensation expense for all share-based payments granted, modified or settled. The stock option non-performance related stock-based expense was being recognized over the shorter of our five-year vesting schedule or the period ending when the employee becomes eligible for retirement using the straight-line method. However, during 2014 we accelerated the vesting of all unvested stock options and recognized the remaining compensation expense. The impact of forfeitures is estimated and compensation expense is recognized only for those stock-based instruments expected to vest. We report tax deductions related to stock-based instruments in excess of recognized compensation expense as a financing cash flow.
	See Note 8 for additional details on these plans.
Comprehensive Income, Policy	Comprehensive Income
	Comprehensive income includes net income, as well as other comprehensive income items not recognized through net income. Other comprehensive income includes unrealized gains and losses on our available-for-sale securities as well as the underfunded obligation for postretirement benefit plans. These items are included in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax and other offsets, in stockholders' equity. The changes in unrealized gains and losses reported in our Statement of Comprehensive Income, excludes net investment gains and losses included in net income which represent transfers from unrealized to realized gains and losses. These transfers are further discussed in Note 7. The components of the underfunded obligation for postretirement benefit plans are provided in Note 8.
Use of Estimates, Policy	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. For example, significant estimates and assumptions are utilized in the valuation of investments, determination of other-than-temporary impairments of investments, amortization of deferred acquisition costs, calculation of policyholder liabilities and accruals and determination of pension expense. It is reasonably possible that actual experience could differ from the estimates and assumptions utilized which could have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Significant_Accounting_Policie2

Significant Accounting Policies Insurance costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Recognition of underwriting, acquisition and insurance costs
	Underwriting, Acquisition and Insurance Expenses
		Year ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses:
	Commission expense, net of deferrals	$	22,856	$	27,410	$	23,712
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	33,303		29,908		37,651
	Amortization of value of insurance in force acquired	3,500		2,565		5,562
	Other underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses, net of deferrals	78,599		78,377		74,981
	Total	$	138,258	$	138,260	$	141,906

Investment_Operations_Tables

Investment Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment Operations [Abstract]
Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities by Investment Category
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities by Investment Category
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized				Gross				Gross				Fair				Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1)
		Cost				Unrealized				Unrealized				Value
						Gains				Losses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate (2)	$	3,335,535			$	348,937			$	(17,566	)		$	3,666,906			$	211
	Residential mortgage-backed	453,607				42,510				(4,583		)		491,534				(3,694		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	485,934				45,573				(812		)		530,695				—
	Other asset-backed	508,090				17,188				(4,017		)		521,261				5,223
	United States Government and agencies	38,227				4,581				(4		)		42,804				—
	State, municipal and other governments	1,290,040				157,571				(113		)		1,447,498				—
	Total fixed maturities	$	6,111,433			$	616,360			$	(27,095	)		$	6,700,698			$	1,740
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	$	80,566			$	5,135			$	(660	)		$	85,041
	Common stocks	26,844				738				—				27,582
	Total equity securities	$	107,410			$	5,873			$	(660	)		$	112,623
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities by Investment Category
		December 31, 2013
		Amortized				Gross				Gross				Fair				Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1)
		Cost				Unrealized				Unrealized				Value
						Gains				Losses
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate (2)	$	3,142,476			$	229,151			$	(64,848	)		$	3,306,779			$	329
	Residential mortgage-backed	492,990				35,676				(7,938		)		520,728				(4,155		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	391,845				20,014				(7,192		)		404,667				—
	Other asset-backed	444,047				19,169				(6,673		)		456,543				1,725
	United States Government and agencies	39,261				4,218				(198		)		43,281				—
	State, municipal and other governments	1,317,920				60,869				(29,034		)		1,349,755				—
	Total fixed maturities	$	5,828,539			$	369,097			$	(115,883	)		$	6,081,753			$	(2,101	)
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	$	65,692			$	3,141			$	(2,383	)		$	66,450
	Common stocks	24,379				726				—				25,105
	Total equity securities	$	90,071			$	3,867			$	(2,383	)		$	91,555
	-1	Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on OTTI's are included in the gross unrealized gains and losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for corporate and other asset-backed securities were in an unrealized gain position at December 31, 2014 and at December 31, 2013 due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	-2	Corporate securities include hybrid preferred securities with a fair value of $80.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $76.3 million at December 31, 2013. Corporate securities also include redeemable preferred stock with a fair value of $29.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $17.1 million at December 31, 2013.
Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date
	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized				Fair Value
		Cost
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Due in one year or less	$	93,299			$	94,846
	Due after one year through five years	758,104				843,133
	Due after five years through ten years	890,121				963,230
	Due after ten years	2,922,278				3,255,999
		4,663,802				5,157,208
	Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed	1,447,631				1,543,490
	Total fixed maturities	$	6,111,433			$	6,700,698
	Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Fixed maturities not due at a single maturity date have been included in the above table in the year of final contractual maturity.
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
		December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Net unrealized appreciation on:
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	589,265			$	253,214
	Equity securities - available for sale	5,213				1,484
		594,478				254,698
	Adjustments for assumed changes in amortization pattern of:
	Deferred acquisition costs	(179,544		)		(55,550		)
	Value of insurance in force acquired	(3,939		)		(6,356		)
	Unearned revenue reserve	11,461				2,790
	Adjustments for assumed changes in policyholder liabilities	(11,182		)		(2,957		)
	Provision for deferred income taxes	(143,932		)		(67,404		)
	Net unrealized investment gains	$	267,342			$	125,221
	Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation of Investments - Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	336,051			$	(374,923	)		$	247,581
	Equity securities - available for sale	3,729				(2,629		)		2,378
	Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments	$	339,780			$	(377,552	)		$	249,959
	The changes in net unrealized investment gains and losses are recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities. Subsequent changes in fair value of securities for which a previous non-credit OTTI loss was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income are reported along with changes in fair value for which no OTTI losses were previously recognized.
Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time
	Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time
			December 31, 2014
			Less than one year								One year or more								Total
	Description of Securities		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value		Unrealized Losses			Percent of Total
			(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate		$	203,764			$	(9,756	)		$	142,600			$	(7,810	)		$	346,364	$	(17,566	)	64.8	%
	Residential mortgage-backed		27,889				(315		)		19,084				(4,268		)		46,973		(4,583		)	16.9
	Commercial mortgage-backed		—				—				20,900				(812		)		20,900		(812		)	3
	Other asset-backed		128,516				(2,349		)		55,526				(1,668		)		184,042		(4,017		)	14.8
	United States Government and agencies		500				—				470				(4		)		970		(4		)	—
	State, municipal and other governments		—				—				12,472				(113		)		12,472		(113		)	0.5
	Total fixed maturities		$	360,669			$	(12,420	)		$	251,052			$	(14,675	)		$	611,721	$	(27,095	)	100	%
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks		$	14,838			$	(110	)		$	4,450			$	(550	)		$	19,288	$	(660	)
	Total equity securities		$	14,838			$	(110	)		$	4,450			$	(550	)		$	19,288	$	(660	)
	Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time
			December 31, 2013
			Less than one year								One year or more								Total
	Description of Securities		Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value				Unrealized Losses				Fair Value		Unrealized Losses			Percent of Total
			(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities:
	Corporate		$	802,161			$	(60,138	)		$	43,500			$	(4,710	)		$	845,661	$	(64,848	)	56	%
	Residential mortgage-backed		92,020				(3,548		)		20,948				(4,390		)		112,968		(7,938		)	6.8
	Commercial mortgage-backed		53,647				(4,454		)		28,054				(2,738		)		81,701		(7,192		)	6.2
	Other asset-backed		101,961				(1,109		)		33,170				(5,564		)		135,131		(6,673		)	5.8
	United States Government and agencies		4,407				(198		)		—				—				4,407		(198		)	0.2
	State, municipal and other governments		353,120				(25,700		)		19,165				(3,334		)		372,285		(29,034		)	25
	Total fixed maturities		$	1,407,316			$	(95,147	)		$	144,837			$	(20,736	)		$	1,552,153	$	(115,883	)	100	%
	Equity securities:
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks		$	31,639			$	(1,756	)		$	4,373			$	(627	)		$	36,012	$	(2,383	)
	Total equity securities		$	31,639			$	(1,756	)		$	4,373			$	(627	)		$	36,012	$	(2,383	)
	Fixed maturities in the above table include 185 securities from 160 issuers at December 31, 2014 and 440 securities from 366 issuers at December 31, 2013. We do not intend to sell or believe we will be required to sell any of our impaired fixed maturities before recovery of their amortized cost basis. The following summarizes the more significant unrealized losses of fixed maturities and equity securities by investment category as of December 31, 2014.
	Corporate securities: The largest unrealized losses were in the energy sector ($90.2 million carrying value and $6.6 million unrealized loss). The largest unrealized losses in the energy sector were in the energy services ($30.4 million carrying value and $3.0 million unrealized loss) and the energy independent ($36.0 million carrying value and $2.2 million unrealized loss) sub-sectors. The majority of losses were primarily attributable to general credit spread widening across the energy sector.
	Residential mortgage-backed securities: The unrealized losses on residential mortgage-backed securities were primarily due to continued uncertainty regarding mortgage defaults on Alt-A loans. We purchased most of these investments at a discount to their face amount and the contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages and other assets backing the securities.
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities: The unrealized losses on commercial mortgage-backed securities were primarily due to spread widening and concerns regarding the potential for future defaults. The contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages backing the securities. Unrealized losses on military housing bonds were mainly attributable to spread widening relative to spreads at which we acquired the bonds. Insured military housing bonds have also been impacted by the removal of their ratings following downgrades of the insurance providers after we purchased the bonds.
	Other asset-backed securities: The unrealized losses on other asset-backed securities were primarily due to market concerns regarding defaults on subprime mortgages and home equity loans. We purchased most of these investments at a discount to their face amount and the contractual cash flows of these investments are based on mortgages and other assets backing the securities.
	State, municipal and other governments: The unrealized losses on state, municipal and other governments were primarily due to general spread widening relative to spreads at which we acquired the bonds.
	Equity securities: Our gross unrealized losses were on investment grade non-redeemable perpetual preferred securities within the finance sector. These securities provide periodic cash flows, contain call features and are similarly rated and priced like other long-term callable bonds and are evaluated for OTTI similar to fixed maturities. The decline in fair value is primarily due to market concerns regarding the sector. We have evaluated the near-term prospects of our equity securities in relation to the severity and duration of their impairment as well as our intent and ability to hold these investments until recovery of fair value, and have concluded they are not other than temporarily impaired.
Mortgage Loans by Collateral Type
	Mortgage Loans by Collateral Type
			December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Collateral Type		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
			(Dollars in thousands)
	Office		$	269,308			42.8	%		$	241,951			42	%
	Retail		214,710				34.1			194,053				33.7
	Industrial		125,425				19.9			126,151				21.9
	Other		19,853				3.2			13,706				2.4
	Total		$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
	Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States
			December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Region of the United States		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
			(Dollars in thousands)
	South Atlantic		$	191,835			30.5	%		$	170,529			29.6	%
	Pacific		94,770				15.1			92,538				16.1
	West North Central		85,664				13.6			85,629				14.9
	East North Central		80,999				12.9			79,128				13.7
	Mountain		62,473				9.9			53,460				9.3
	West South Central		50,010				7.9			39,780				6.9
	Other		63,545				10.1			54,797				9.5
	Total		$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States
	Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States
			December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
	Region of the United States		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
			(Dollars in thousands)
	South Atlantic		$	191,835			30.5	%		$	170,529			29.6	%
	Pacific		94,770				15.1			92,538				16.1
	West North Central		85,664				13.6			85,629				14.9
	East North Central		80,999				12.9			79,128				13.7
	Mountain		62,473				9.9			53,460				9.3
	West South Central		50,010				7.9			39,780				6.9
	Other		63,545				10.1			54,797				9.5
	Total		$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value Ratio
	Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value Ratio
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
	0% - 50%	$	180,884			28.7	%		$	149,719			26	%
	50% - 60%	189,210				30.1			202,025				35.1
	60% - 70%	198,336				31.5			204,460				35.5
	70% - 80%	53,480				8.5			15,559				2.7
	80% - 90%	7,386				1.2			4,098				0.7
	Total	$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
	The loan-to-value ratio is determined using the most recent appraised value. Appraisals are updated periodically including when there is indication of a possible significant collateral decline, a loan modification or a refinance request.
	Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
	2014	$	86,174			13.7	%		$	—			—	%
	2013	81,802				13	%		84,478				14.7	%
	2012	70,274				11.2	%		72,792				12.6	%
	2011	46,813				7.4	%		48,190				8.4	%
	2010	24,797				3.9	%		26,173				4.5	%
	2009 and prior	319,436				50.8	%		344,228				59.8	%
	Total	$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination
	Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination
		December 31, 2014							December 31, 2013
		Carrying Value				Percent of Total			Carrying Value				Percent of Total
		(Dollars in thousands)
	2014	$	86,174			13.7	%		$	—			—	%
	2013	81,802				13	%		84,478				14.7	%
	2012	70,274				11.2	%		72,792				12.6	%
	2011	46,813				7.4	%		48,190				8.4	%
	2010	24,797				3.9	%		26,173				4.5	%
	2009 and prior	319,436				50.8	%		344,228				59.8	%
	Total	$	629,296			100	%		$	575,861			100	%
Impaired Mortgage Loans
	Impaired Mortgage Loans
		December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Unpaid principal balance	$	22,103			$	22,100
	Less:
	Related allowance	857				888
	Discount	267				429
	Carrying value of impaired mortgage loans	$	20,979			$	20,783
Allowance on Mortgage Loans
	Allowance on Mortgage Loans
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Balance at beginning of period	$	888			$	1,694
	Allowances established	—				804
	Charge offs	(31		)		(1,610		)
	Balance at end of period	$	857			$	888
Components of Net Investment Income
	Components of Net Investment Income
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	333,759			$	328,979			$	318,364
	Equity securities - available for sale	5,388				4,295				3,508
	Mortgage loans	32,759				32,447				32,369
	Real estate	140				331				—
	Policy loans	8,620				8,502				8,997
	Short-term investments, cash and cash equivalents	—				102				215
	Prepayment fee income and other	9,455				5,098				6,737
		390,121				379,754				370,190
	Less investment expenses	(8,039		)		(9,103		)		(8,866		)
	Net investment income	$	382,082			$	370,651			$	361,324
Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income
	Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Realized gains (losses) on sales of investments
	Fixed maturities:
	Gross gains	$	4,593			$	18,495			$	16,982
	Gross losses	(833		)		(2,374		)		(541		)
	Equity securities	—				—				309
	Mortgage loans	—				—				767
	Real estate	—				12				(25		)
	Other	—				(166		)		(13		)
		3,760				15,967				17,479
	Impairment losses recognized in earnings:
	Credit-related portion of fixed maturity losses (1)	—				(618		)		(5,264		)
	Other credit-related (2)	(822		)		(1,794		)		(11,763		)
	Realized gains on investments recorded in income	$	2,938			$	13,555			$	452
	-1	Amount represents the credit-related losses recognized for fixed maturities which were not written down to fair value through income. As discussed above the non-credit portion of the losses have been recognized in other comprehensive income (loss).
	-2	Amount represents credit-related losses for mortgage loans, real estate and fixed maturities written down to fair value through income.
	Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities were $67.2 million in 2014, $138.4 million in 2013 and $156.3 million in 2012.
	Realized losses on sales were on securities that we did not intend to sell at the prior balance sheet date or on securities that were impaired in a prior period, but decreased in value during the year.
Credit Loss Component of Other-than-temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities	Credit Loss Component of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities
	The following table sets forth the amount of credit loss impairments on fixed maturities held by the Company as of the dates indicated for which a portion of the OTTI was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and corresponding changes in such amounts.
			Year ended December 31,
			2014				2013
			(Dollars in thousands)
	Balance at beginning of period		$	(21,592	)		$	(27,712	)
	Increases to previously impaired investments		—				(618		)
	Reductions due to investments sold		4,820				5,944
	Reductions due to change of intent to not hold investments		—				794
	Balance at end of period		$	(16,772	)		$	(21,592	)
Variable Interest Entities	Variable Interest Entities
	We evaluate our variable interest entity (VIE) investees to determine whether the level of our direct ownership interest, our rights to manage operations or our obligation to provide ongoing financial support are such that we are the primary beneficiary of the entity, and are then required to consolidate it for financial reporting purposes. None of our VIE investees were required to be consolidated during 2014, 2013 or 2012. Our VIE investments were as follows:
		December 31, 2014								December 31, 2013
		Carrying Value				Maximum Exposure to Loss				Carrying Value				Maximum Exposure to Loss
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Real estate limited partnerships	$	17,046			$	17,046			$	17,646			$	17,646
	The real estate limited partnerships had revenues totaling $4.0 million for 2014, $4.3 million for 2013 and $4.1 million for 2012. We may make commitments to fund partnership investments in the normal course of business. We did not have any commitments to investees designated as VIE's during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 or 2012.

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
	Fair Values and Carrying Values
		December 31,
		2014						2013
		Carrying Value			Fair Value			Carrying Value			Fair Value
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities - available for sale	$	6,700,698		$	6,700,698		$	6,081,753		$	6,081,753
	Equity securities - available for sale	112,623			112,623			91,555			91,555
	Mortgage loans	629,296			667,913			575,861			594,451
	Policy loans	182,502			230,070			176,993			210,401
	Other investments	3,558			3,558			993			993
	Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	125,217			125,217			115,047			115,047
	Reinsurance recoverable	3,562			3,562			2,678			2,678
	Assets held in separate accounts	683,033			683,033			693,955			693,955
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits	$	3,563,558		$	3,666,960		$	3,360,519		$	3,371,706
	Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	341,955			329,651			349,761			320,195
	Advance premiums and other deposits	239,700			239,700			230,819			230,819
	Long-term debt	97,000			69,772			97,000			63,343
	Other liabilities	173			173			—			—
	Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033			677,040			693,955			686,387
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
	Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels
		December 31, 2014
		Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
		for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Corporate securities	$	—		$	3,602,667		$	64,239		$	3,666,906
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			491,534			—			491,534
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			452,804			77,891			530,695
	Other asset-backed securities	—			405,120			116,141			521,261
	United States Government and agencies	15,170			18,569			9,065			42,804
	State, municipal and other governments	—			1,447,498			—			1,447,498
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	—			76,987			8,054			85,041
	Common stocks	3,501			24,081			—			27,582
	Other investments	—			3,558			—			3,558
	Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	125,217			—			—			125,217
	Reinsurance recoverable	—			3,562			—			3,562
	Assets held in separate accounts	683,033			—			—			683,033
	Total assets	$	826,921		$	6,526,380		$	275,390		$	7,628,691
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	—		$	—		$	8,681		$	8,681
	Other liabilities	—			173			—			173
	Total liabilities	$	—		$	173		$	8,681		$	8,854
		December 31, 2013
		Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
		for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Corporate securities	$	—		$	3,224,785		$	81,994		$	3,306,779
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			520,728			—			520,728
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			332,955			71,712			404,667
	Other asset-backed securities	—			370,708			85,835			456,543
	United States Government and agencies	15,291			19,946			8,044			43,281
	State, municipal and other governments	—			1,349,755			—			1,349,755
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	—			58,655			7,795			66,450
	Common stocks	3,295			21,810			—			25,105
	Other investments	—			993			—			993
	Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	115,047			—			—			115,047
	Reinsurance recoverable	—			2,678			—			2,678
	Assets held in separate accounts	693,955			—			—			693,955
	Total assets	$	827,588		$	5,903,013		$	255,380		$	6,985,981
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	—		$	—		$	286		$	286
	Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	286		$	286
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]
	Level 3 Fixed Maturity Securities by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis
		December 31, 2014
		Third-party vendors			Priced			Total
					internally
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Corporate securities	$	40,095		$	24,144		$	64,239
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	77,891			—			77,891
	Other asset-backed securities	95,271			20,870			116,141
	United States Government and agencies	—			9,065			9,065
	Total	$	213,257		$	54,079		$	267,336
	Percent of total	79.8		%	20.2		%	100		%
		December 31, 2013
		Third-party vendors			Priced			Total
					internally
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Corporate securities	$	59,812		$	22,182		$	81,994
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	71,712			—			71,712
	Other asset-backed securities	65,003			20,832			85,835
	United States Government and agencies	8,044			—			8,044
	Total	$	204,571		$	43,014		$	247,585
	Percent of total	82.6		%	17.4		%	100		%
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block]
	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis
		December 31, 2014
		Fair Value			Valuation Technique		Unobservable Input	Range (Weighted Average)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Corporate securities	$	41,491		Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.95% - 6.80% (4.92%)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	77,891			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.75% - 4.00% (2.89%)
	Other asset-backed securities	26,937			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.96% - 6.17% (4.31%)
	United States Government and agencies	9,065			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.80% (1.80%)
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	8,054			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	3.34% (3.34%)
	Total Assets	$	163,438
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	8,681		Discounted cash flow		Credit risk	0.70% - 1.70% (1.10%)
							Risk margin	0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis
		31-Dec-13
		Fair Value			Valuation Technique		Unobservable Input	Range (Weighted Average)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Corporate securities	$	46,023		Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.91% - 17.08% (7.84%)
	Commercial mortgage-backed	71,712			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	1.75% - 4.50% (2.95%)
	Other asset-backed securities	38,305			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	0.74% - 5.06% (3.55%)
	State, municipal and other governments	7,795			Discounted cash flow		Credit spread	3.81% (3.81%)
	Total Assets	$	163,835
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	286		Discounted cash flow		Credit risk	0.30% - 1.70% (1.05%)
							Risk margin	0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
	The table above excludes certain securities for which the fair value was based on non-binding broker quotes where we could not reasonably obtain the quantitative unobservable inputs.
Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value [Table Text Block]
	Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis
		December 31, 2014
											Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net
		Balance, December 31, 2013			Purchases			Disposals			Included in net income			Included in other compre-hensive income			Transfers into		Transfers			Amort-ization included in net income		Balance, December 31, 2014
																	Level 3 (1)		out of
																			Level 3 (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Corporate securities	$	81,994		$	290		$	(16,304	)	$	(273	)	$	(198	)	$	13,623	$	(14,960	)	$	67	$	64,239
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	71,712			2,920			(752		)	—			8,734			—		(4,820		)	97		77,891
	Other asset-backed securities	85,835			83,387			(19,165		)	—			(196		)	1,974		(37,074		)	1,380		116,141
	United States Government and agencies	8,044			—			—			—			1,014			—		—			7		9,065
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	7,795			—			—			—			259			—		—			—		8,054
	Total	$	255,380		$	86,597		$	(36,221	)	$	(273	)	$	9,613		$	15,597	$	(56,854	)	$	1,551	$	275,390
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	286		$	7,237		$	(369	)	$	1,527		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	8,681
	Total Liabilities	$	286		$	7,237		$	(369	)	$	1,527		$	—		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	8,681
	Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis
		December 31, 2013
											Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net
		Balance, December 31, 2012			Purchases			Disposals			Included in net income			Included in other compre-hensive income			Transfers		Transfers			Amort-ization included in net income		Balance, December 31, 2013
																	into		out of
																	Level 3 (1)		Level 3 (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Corporate securities	$	100,463		$	2,157		$	(7,946	)	$	—		$	(1,945	)	$	—	$	(10,798	)	$	63	$	81,994
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	76,281			—			(660		)	—			(3,996		)	—		—			87		71,712
	Other asset-backed securities	95,756			38,468			(13,583		)	—			(971		)	4,062		(39,155		)	1,258		85,835
	United States Government and agencies	8,555			—			—			—			(517		)	—		—			6		8,044
	State, municipal and other governments	223			—			(218		)	—			(5		)	—		—			—		—
	Non-redeemable preferred stocks	7,391			—			—			—			71			5,208		(4,875		)	—		7,795
	Total	$	288,669		$	40,625		$	(22,407	)	$	—		$	(7,363	)	$	9,270	$	(54,828	)	$	1,414	$	255,380
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits - index annuity embedded derivatives	$	307		$	—		$	(28	)	$	—		$	7		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	286
	Total Liabilities	$	307		$	—		$	(28	)	$	—		$	7		$	—	$	—		$	—	$	286
	-1	Transfers into Level 3 represent assets previously priced using an external pricing service with access to observable inputs no longer available and therefore, were priced using non-binding broker quotes. Transfers out of Level 3 include those assets that we are now able to obtain pricing from a third party pricing vendor that uses observable inputs. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during 2014 and 2013.
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Value [Table Text Block]
	Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels
		December 31, 2014
		Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
		for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Mortgage loans	$	—		$	—		$	667,913		$	667,913
	Policy loans	—			—			230,070			230,070
	Total assets	$	—		$	—		$	897,983		$	897,983
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits	$	—		$	—		$	3,658,279		$	3,658,279
	Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	—			—			329,651			329,651
	Advance premiums and other deposits	—			—			239,700			239,700
	Long-term debt	—			—			69,772			69,772
	Liabilities related to separate accounts	—			—			677,040			677,040
	Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	4,974,442		$	4,974,442
	Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels
		December 31, 2013
		Quoted prices in active markets			Significant other observable			Significant unobservable			Total
		for identical assets (Level 1)			inputs (Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets
	Mortgage loans	$	—		$	—		$	594,451		$	594,451
	Policy loans	—			—			210,401			210,401
	Total assets	$	—		$	—		$	804,852		$	804,852
	Liabilities
	Future policy benefits	$	—		$	—		$	3,371,420		$	3,371,420
	Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	—			—			320,195			320,195
	Advance premiums and other deposits	—			—			230,819			230,819
	Long-term debt	—			—			63,343			63,343
	Liabilities related to separate accounts	—			—			686,387			686,387
	Total liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	4,672,164		$	4,672,164

Reinsurance_and_Policy_Provisi1

Reinsurance and Policy Provisions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance and Policy Provisions [Abstract]
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Disclosures [Text Block]	Analysis of the Value of Insurance In Force Acquired
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Excluding impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses:
	Balance at beginning of year	$	29,935		$	32,500		$	38,062
	Accretion of interest during the year	527			902			1,068
	Amortization of asset	(4,026		)	(3,467		)	(6,630		)
	Balance prior to impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	26,436			29,935			32,500
	Impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	(3,939		)	(6,356		)	(15,346		)
	Balance at end of year	$	22,497		$	23,579		$	17,154
	We periodically revise key assumptions used in the calculation of the value of insurance in force acquired through an “unlocking” process, which increased amortization $1.4 million in 2014, $0.2 million in 2013 and $2.6 million in 2012. Net amortization, based on expected future gross profits/margins, for the next five years is expected to be as follows: 2015 - $2.4 million; 2016 - $2.4 million; 2017 - $2.3 million; 2018 - $2.2 million; and 2019 - $2.1 million.
Schedule of Minimum Guaranteed Benefit Liabilities [Table Text Block]	Certain variable annuity and variable universal life contracts in our separate accounts and in separate accounts of reinsurance partners have minimum interest guarantees on funds deposited in our general account. In addition, we have certain variable annuity contracts that include a) guaranteed minimum death benefits (GMDBs), b) an incremental death benefit (IDB) rider that pays a percentage of the gain on the contract upon the death of the contract holder, and/or c) a guaranteed minimum income benefit (GMIB) that provides monthly income to the contract holder after the eighth policy year.
	GMDB, IDB and GMIB Net Amount at Risk by Type of Guarantee
		December 31, 2014						December 31, 2013
		Separate			Net Amount			Separate			Net Amount
		Account			at Risk			Account			at Risk
		Balance						Balance
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Guaranteed minimum death benefit:
	Return of net deposits	$	192,334		$	659		$	195,593		$	791
	Return the greater of highest anniversary	308,101			3,140			315,176			3,150
	value or net deposits
	Incremental death benefit	280,214			56,369			283,556			57,964
	Guaranteed minimum income benefit	41,378			405			42,850			—
	Total				$	60,573					$	61,905
	The separate account assets are principally comprised of stock and bond mutual funds. The net amount at risk for these contracts is based on the amount by which GMDB, IDB or GMIB exceeds account value. The reserve for GMDBs, IDBs or GMIBs, determined using modeling techniques and industry mortality assumptions, that is included in future policy benefits, totaled $3.3 million at December 31, 2014 and $2.4 million at December 31, 2013. The weighted average age of the contract holders with GMDB, IDB or GMIB rider exposure was 62 years at December 31, 2014 and 63 years at December 31, 2013. Benefits paid for GMDBs, IDBs and GMIBs totaled $0.2 million for 2014, $0.3 million for 2013 and $0.2 million for 2012.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
	Income Tax Expenses (Credits)
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Taxes provided in consolidated statements of operations on:
	Income from continuing operations before noncontrolling interest and equity income (loss):
	Current	$	39,562		$	43,264		$	(8,717	)
	Deferred	7,773			6,058			48,788
		47,335			49,322			40,071
	Equity income (loss)	(13,372		)	(11,050		)	(6,260		)
	Discontinued operations	—			—			(382		)
	Loss on sale of subsidiary	—			—			(1,213		)
	Taxes provided in consolidated statements of changes in stockholders' equity:
	Accumulated other comprehensive income	75,032			(91,961		)	60,309
	Class A and Class B common stock	(1,148		)	(1,657		)	(2,167		)
		73,884			(93,618		)	58,142
		$	107,847		$	(55,346	)	$	90,358
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
	Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation to Federal Income Tax Rate
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes, noncontrolling interest and equity income (loss)	$	147,101		$	150,305		$	118,184
	Income tax at federal statutory rate (35%)	$	51,485		$	52,607		$	41,364
	Tax effect (decrease) of:
	Tax-exempt dividend and interest income	(3,400		)	(2,802		)	(1,741		)
	Impact of incentive stock options	(748		)	(594		)	(341		)
	Other items	(2		)	111			789
	Income tax expense	$	47,335		$	49,322		$	40,071
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
	Tax Effect of Temporary Differences Giving Rise to Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities
		December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Future policy benefits	$	24,241		$	22,754
	Accrued benefit and compensation costs	16,952			12,048
	Loss carryforwards	11,613			17,041
	Other	4,042			4,478
		56,848			56,321
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Fixed maturity and equity securities	208,470			90,360
	Deferred acquisition costs	26,170			66,583
	Other	27,906			22,217
		262,546			179,160
	Net deferred income tax liability	$	205,698		$	122,839

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments
		Year ended December 31, 2014
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
		Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(3,760	)		$	—			$	—			$	(3,760	)
	Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	186				—				—				186
	Other than temporary impairment losses	—				—				—				—
	Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
	Prior service costs	—				—				(11		)		(11		)
	Net actuarial loss	—				—				(4,263		)		(4,263		)
	Reclassifications before income taxes	(3,574		)		—				(4,274		)		(7,848		)
	Income taxes	1,251				—				1,496				2,747
	Reclassification adjustments	$	(2,323	)		$	—			$	(2,778	)		$	(5,101	)
		Year ended December 31, 2013
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
		Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(16,121	)		$	—			$	—			$	(16,121	)
	Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	809				112				—				921
	Other than temporary impairment losses	—				(4,250		)		—				(4,250		)
	Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
	Prior service costs	—				—				(11		)		(11		)
	Net actuarial loss	—				—				2,777				2,777
	Reclassifications before income taxes	(15,312		)		(4,138		)		2,766				(16,684		)
	Income taxes	5,359				1,448				(968		)		5,839
	Reclassification adjustments	$	(9,953	)		$	(2,690	)		$	1,798			$	(10,845	)
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments
		Year ended December 31, 2012
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit				Total
		Net Investment Gains								Plans (2)
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Realized capital gains on sales of investments	$	(16,750	)		$	—			$	—			$	(16,750	)
	Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities	1,012				166				—				1,178
	Other than temporary impairment losses	—				(9,372		)		—				(9,372		)
	Other expenses: Change in unrecognized postretirement items:
	Prior service costs	—				—				35				35
	Net actuarial loss	—				—				(12,421		)		(12,421		)
	Reclassifications before income taxes	(15,738		)		(9,206		)		(12,386		)		(37,330		)
	Income taxes	5,508				3,222				4,335				13,065
	Reclassification adjustments	$	(10,230	)		$	(5,984	)		$	(8,051	)		$	(24,265	)
	-1	See Note 2 for further information.
	-2	See Note 8 discussion on Defined Benefit Plans and Other Retirement Plans for further information.
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax and Other Offsets
		Unrealized				Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Gains (Losses)				Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans				Total
		Net Investment Gains
		(Losses) (1)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Balance at January 1, 2012	$	190,449			$	(12,703	)		$	99			$	177,845
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	125,948				10,325				—				136,273
	Reclassification adjustments	(10,230		)		(5,984		)		(8,051		)		(24,265		)
	Balance at December 31, 2012	306,167				(8,362		)		(7,952		)		289,853
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(169,627		)		9,686				—				(159,941		)
	Reclassification adjustments	(9,953		)		(2,690		)		1,798				(10,845		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	126,587				(1,366		)		(6,154		)		119,067
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	141,947				2,497				—				144,444
	Reclassification adjustments	(2,323		)		—				(2,778		)		(5,101		)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	266,211			$	1,131			$	(8,932	)		$	258,410
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]
	Reconciliation of Outstanding Common Stock
		Class A							Class B							Total
		Shares			Dollars				Shares			Dollars				Shares		Dollars
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012	29,457,644			$	129,684			1,192,990			$	7,522			30,650,634		$	137,206
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	353,140			10,901				—			—				353,140		10,901
	Purchase of common stock	(5,528,700	)		(24,879		)		—			—				(5,528,700	)	(24,879		)
	Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (1)	100			—				(100	)		—				—		—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	24,282,184			115,706				1,192,890			7,522				25,475,074		123,228
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	666,659			20,156				—			—				666,659		20,156
	Purchase of common stock	(363,430	)		(1,862		)		(1,023,948	)		(6,457		)		(1,387,378	)	(8,319		)
	Conversion of Class B to Class A common stock (1)	157,529			993				(157,529	)		(993		)		—		$	—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	24,742,942			$	134,993			11,413			$	72			24,754,355		$	135,065
	Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	390,707			12,028				—			—				390,707		12,028
	Purchase of common stock	(429,746	)		(2,396		)		—			—				(429,746	)	(2,396		)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014	24,703,903			$	144,625			11,413			$	72			24,715,316		$	144,697

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl1

Retirement and Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	Funding Status and Net Periodic Pension Costs
		Multiemployer Plan								Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended								As of and for the year ended
		December 31,								December 31,
		2014				2013				2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Net benefit obligation at beginning of the year	$	292,449			$	330,320			$	23,265		$	26,664
	Service cost	5,295				6,472				269			252
	Interest cost	13,919				13,384				1,077			1,035
	Actuarial loss (gain)	50,315				(41,794		)		5,464			(1,305		)
	Benefits paid	(2,327		)		(15,933		)		(3,346		)	(3,381		)
	Settlements	(20,512		)		—				—			—
	Projected benefit obligation	339,139				292,449				26,729			23,265
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of the year	250,820				220,000				—			—
	Actual return on plan assets	12,229				24,253				—			—
	Employer contributions	16,800				22,500				3,346			3,381
	Benefits paid	(2,327		)		(15,933		)		(3,346		)	(3,381		)
	Settlements	(20,512		)		—				—			—
	Fair value of plan assets at end of the year	257,010				250,820				—			—
	Underfunded status at end of the year	$	(82,129	)		$	(41,629	)		$	(26,729	)	$	(23,265	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation	$	305,388			$	266,891			$	23,973		$	21,944
	For all the Plans we participate in, the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of plan assets. The projected benefit obligations, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets are included above.
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]	Net Periodic Pension Costs Incurred by the Plans
		Multiemployer Plan											Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended											As of and for the year ended
		December 31,											December 31,
		2014				2013				2012			2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Service cost	$	5,295			$	6,472			$	8,117		$	269		$	252		$	442
	Interest cost	13,919				13,384				12,706			1,077			1,035			1,160
	Expected return on assets	(17,504		)		(15,666		)		(14,081		)	—			—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost	144				144				424			(11		)	(11		)	(11		)
	Amortization of actuarial loss	6,087				12,468				9,467			1,131			1,267			1,108
	Effect of settlement	6,306				—				—			—			—			—
	Net periodic pension cost	$	14,247			$	16,802			$	16,633		$	2,466		$	2,543		$	2,699
	FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension cost	$	4,569			$	5,363			$	5,437		$	1,372		$	1,436		$	1,533
	Pension settlement charges were recognized after determining the total cash payments exceeded the sum of the service and interest cost for 2014. The settlement has been recognized quarterly beginning September 30, 2014 when the threshold was first exceeded.
	The Plans' prior service costs are amortized using a straight-line amortization method over the average remaining service period of the employees. For actuarial gains and losses, we use a corridor (10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation or the market related value of plan assets) to determine the amounts to amortize. For the Multiemployer Plan it is expected that net periodic pension cost in 2015 will include $10.4 million for amortization of the actuarial loss and $0.1 million of prior service cost amortization. For the Other Plans it is expected that net periodic pension cost in 2015, included in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2014, will include $1.5 million for amortization of the actuarial loss and less than ($0.1) million of prior service cost (credit) amortization.
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block]
	Multiemployer Plan name		FBL Financial Group Retirement Plan
	Employer identification number		42-1411715
	Plan number		1
	FBL's contributions (in thousands)
		2014	$16,800
		2013	$22,500
		2012	$15,000
	FBL's Proportionate Share of Prepaid or Accrued Pension Cost
		Multiemployer Plan								Other Plans
		As of and for the year ended								As of and for the year ended
		December 31,								December 31,
		2014				2013				2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Amount recognized in FBL's statement of financial position
	Prepaid benefit cost	$	17,148			$	16,330			$	1,417		$	1,284
	Accrued benefit cost	—				—				(21,437		)	(17,302		)
	Net amount recognized	$	17,148			$	16,330			$	(20,020	)	$	(16,018	)
	Amount recognized in FBL's accumulated other comprehensive income, before taxes (1)
	Net actuarial loss									$	14,035		$	9,701
	Prior service cost									(13		)	(24		)
	Net amount recognized									$	14,022		$	9,677
	-1	For multiemployer plans, the funded status is not required to be recognized as an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheets. The unrecognized liability for the underfunded status of our Multiemployer Plan totaled $82.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $41.6 million at December 31, 2013.
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
	Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligation
		31-Dec
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	4.05	%		4.99	%
	Annual salary increases	3	%		3	%
	We estimate the discount rate by projecting and discounting future benefit payments inherent in the projected benefit obligation using a commercially available "spot" yield curve constructed using techniques and a bond universe specifically selected to meet the accounting standard requirements.
	Our expected long-term return on plan assets represents the rate of earnings expected in the funds invested to provide for anticipated benefit payments. We have analyzed the expected rates of return on assets and determined that a long-term return of
	7.00% is reasonable based on the current and expected asset allocations and on the Multiemployer Plan's historical investment performance and best estimates for future investment performance.
	Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Pension Cost
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Discount rate	4.42% / 4.99%			4.18	%		4.67	%
	Expected long-term return on plan assets	7	%		7	%		7	%
	Annual salary increases	3	%		3	%		4	%
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
	Fair Values of the Multiemployer Plan Assets by Asset Category and Hierarchy Levels
		31-Dec-14
		Quoted prices in				Significant other				Significant			Total
		active markets for				observable				unobservable
		identical assets				inputs				inputs
		(Level 1)				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Mutual funds: (1)
	U.S. equity funds	$	31,499			$	—			$	—		$	31,499
	International funds	29,589				—				—			29,589
	Pooled separate accounts: (1)
	Short-term fixed income funds	—				543				—			543
	Fixed income funds	—				12,249				—			12,249
	U.S. equity funds	—				25,250				—			25,250
	Real estate fund	—				12,818				—			12,818
	Annuities: (2)
	Group annuity contract	—				—				128,244			128,244
	Funded annuity contracts	—				—				12,298			12,298
	Alternative investments: (3)
	Limited partnerships	—				—				4,520			4,520
	Total	$	61,088			$	50,860			$	145,062		$	257,010
		31-Dec-13
		Quoted prices in				Significant other				Significant			Total
		active markets for				observable				unobservable
		identical assets				inputs				inputs
		(Level 1)				(Level 2)				(Level 3)
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Mutual funds: (1)
	U.S. equity funds	$	31,325			$	—			$	—		$	31,325
	International funds	30,884				—				—			30,884
	Pooled separate accounts: (1)
	Short-term fixed income funds	—				6,904				—			6,904
	Fixed income funds	—				12,166				—			12,166
	U.S. equity funds	—				24,934				—			24,934
	Real estate fund	—				12,253				—			12,253
	Annuities: (2)
	Group annuity contract	—				—				117,226			117,226
	Funded annuity contracts	—				—				12,932			12,932
	Alternative investments: (3)
	Limited partnerships	—				—				2,196			2,196
	Total	$	62,209			$	56,257			$	132,354		$	250,820
	-1	Represents mutual funds and pooled separate account investments with Principal Life Insurance Company.
	-2	Represents group annuity contracts with Farm Bureau Life.
	-3	Represents interests in several limited partnerships.
	Level 3 Multiemployer Plan Asset Changes in Fair Value
		December 31, 2014
										Return on assets
		December 31,				Purchases				Held at year end			Sold during year			Transfers into (out) of level 3			December 31, 2014
		2013				(disposals),
						net
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Group annuity contract	$	117,226			$	5,829			$	5,189		$	—		$	—		$	128,244
	Funded annuity contracts	12,932				(1,376		)		742			—			—			12,298
	Limited partnerships	2,196				2,107				217			—			—			4,520
	Total	$	132,354			$	6,560			$	6,148		$	—		$	—		$	145,062
Schedule of Level Three Defined Benefit Plan Assets Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
	Level 3 Multiemployer Plan Asset Changes in Fair Value
		December 31, 2014
										Return on assets
		December 31,				Purchases				Held at year end			Sold during year			Transfers into (out) of level 3			December 31, 2014
		2013				(disposals),
						net
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Group annuity contract	$	117,226			$	5,829			$	5,189		$	—		$	—		$	128,244
	Funded annuity contracts	12,932				(1,376		)		742			—			—			12,298
	Limited partnerships	2,196				2,107				217			—			—			4,520
	Total	$	132,354			$	6,560			$	6,148		$	—		$	—		$	145,062
		December 31, 2013
										Return on assets
		December 31,				Purchases				Held at year end			Sold during year			Transfers into (out) of level 3			December 31, 2013
		2012				(disposals),
						net
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Group annuity contract	$	109,275			$	2,793			$	5,158		$	—		$	—		$	117,226
	Funded annuity contracts	13,235				(1,103		)		800			—			—			12,932
	Limited partnerships	—				2,258				(62		)	—			—			2,196
	Total	$	122,510			$	3,948			$	5,896		$	—		$	—		$	132,354

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl2

Retirement and Compensation Plans Stock based compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
	Stock Option Activity
		Number of Shares		Weighted-Average		Weighted-Average	Aggregate
				Exercise Price		Remaining	Intrinsic
				per Share		Contractual	Value (1)
						Term (in
						Years)
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Shares under option at January 1, 2014	651,497		$	27.61
	Exercised	(378,437	)	27.69
	Forfeited or expired	—		—
	Shares under option at December 31, 2014	273,060		27.5		3.12	$	8,335
	Vested at December 31, 2014 or expected to vest in the future	273,060		$	27.5	3.12	$	8,335
	Exercisable options at December 31, 2014	273,060		$	27.5	3.12	$	8,335
	-1	Represents the difference between the share price and exercise price for each option, excluding options where the exercise price is above the share price, at December 31, 2014.
	The intrinsic value of options exercised during the year totaled $6.5 million for 2014, $6.6 million for 2013 and $5.4 million for 2012.
	We issue new shares to satisfy stock option exercises. Beginning in 2014, conditional upon market conditions, we repurchase Class A common shares on the open market for shares issued upon the exercise of stock options. Cash received from stock options exercised totaled $10.5 million for 2014, $19.4 million for 2013 and $9.7 million for 2012. The actual tax benefit realized from stock options exercised totaled $2.2 million for 2014, $2.3 million for 2013 and $1.8 million for 2012.
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block]	The final nonvested shares were vested and released in 2013 and the expense related to these shares has been fully recognized at December 31, 2013. The tax benefit realized from nonvested stock released to employees was $1.7 million in 2013 and $1.6 million in 2012. We have a policy of withholding shares to cover estimated future tax payments.
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block]
	Restricted Stock Unit Activity
		Number of Units		Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
				per Unit
	Restricted stock units at January 1, 2014	117,966		$	34.92
	Granted	67,035		38.63
	Vested	(43,571	)	34.58
	Forfeited or canceled	(12,668	)	36.54
	Restricted stock units at December 31, 2014	128,762		36.8
	The weighted average grant-date fair value per common share of restricted stock units granted was $38.63 in 2014, $34.94 in 2013 and $35.10 in 2012. Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock units based on the stock price at December 31, 2014 totaled $3.8 million. This expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.18 years. Dividends are paid on restricted stock units upon vesting.

Earnings_per_Share_Tables

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
	Computation of Earnings Per Common Share
		Year ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Numerator:
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$	109,941	$	108,558	$	79,940
	Less: Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(2,939		)
	Less: Dividends on Series B preferred stock	150		150		150
	Income available to common stockholders from continuing operations	$	109,791	$	108,408	$	82,729
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average shares - basic	24,866,284		25,508,522		27,497,146
	Effect of dilutive securities - stock-based compensation	149,960		265,893		341,402
	Weighted-average shares - diluted	25,016,244		25,774,415		27,838,548
	Earnings per common share:
	Income from continuing operations	$	4.42	$	4.25	$	3.01
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(0.11		)
	Total earnings per share	$	4.42	$	4.25	$	2.9
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution:
	Income from continuing operations	$	4.39	$	4.21	$	2.97
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	—		—		(0.10		)
	Total earnings per share	$	4.39	$	4.21	$	2.87
	Antidilutive stock options excluded from diluted earnings per share	—		—		790,216

Statutory_Insurance_Informatio1

Statutory Insurance Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Statutory Insurance Information [Abstract]
Statutory Accounting Practices Disclosure [Table Text Block]
	Farm Bureau Life Statutory Information
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Net gain from operations (excludes impact of realized gains and losses on investments)	$	97,799		$	93,306		$	92,988
	Net income	97,393			94,583			86,589
		December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Capital and surplus	$	552,021		$	492,450
	Unassigned surplus	418,538			358,967
	Risk-Based Capital measurements:
	Total adjusted capital	614,201			558,355
	Company action level capital	112,771			111,792
	RBC Ratio	545		%	499		%

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
	Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Operating revenues:
	Annuity	$	203,477			$	197,539			$	192,001
	Life Insurance	390,609				385,325				367,853
	Corporate and Other	93,646				96,775				93,443
		687,732				679,639				653,297
	Realized gains on investments (1)	2,937				13,597				465
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	2,270				(2,005		)		1,778
	Consolidated revenues	$	692,939			$	691,231			$	655,540
	Net investment income:
	Annuity	$	201,550			196,303				191,211
	Life Insurance	146,349				140,510				138,076
	Corporate and Other	31,913				35,843				30,259
		379,812				372,656				359,546
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	2,270				(2,005		)		1,778
	Consolidated net investment income	$	382,082			$	370,651			$	361,324
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Annuity	$	5,709			$	7,186			$	8,271
	Life Insurance	20,027				19,430				25,727
	Corporate and Other	2,895				2,157				5,225
		28,631				28,773				39,223
	Realized gains on investments (1)	189				973				1,200
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	125				(1,324		)		709
	Consolidated depreciation and amortization	$	28,945			$	28,422			$	41,132
	Pre-tax operating income:
	Annuity	$	65,056			$	63,592			$	55,910
	Life Insurance	51,521				48,814				43,741
	Corporate and Other	22,865				22,172				16,856
		139,442				134,578				116,507
	Income taxes on operating income	(32,401		)		(33,985		)		(33,748		)
	Realized gains/losses on investments (1)	1,786				8,206				(477		)
	Change in net unrealized gains/losses on derivatives (1)	1,114				(241		)		619
	Loss on debt redemption (1)	—				—				(22		)
	Loss from discontinued operations	—				—				(2,939		)
	Consolidated net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$	109,941			$	108,558			$	79,940
	Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments - continued
		December 31,
		2014				2013
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Assets:
	Annuity	$	3,981,825			$	3,778,018
	Life Insurance	2,956,347				2,789,145
	Corporate and Other	1,715,241				1,701,368
		8,653,413				8,268,531
	Unrealized gains in accumulated other comprehensive income (2)	410,995				192,792
	Consolidated assets	$	9,064,408			$	8,461,323
	-1
Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures [table text block] [Table Text Block]
	Reconciliation of Traditional Life Insurance Premiums, Net of Reinsurance
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Traditional and universal life insurance premiums collected	$	282,098			$	307,474			$	255,709
	Premiums collected on interest sensitive products	(98,796		)		(127,271		)		(81,212		)
	Traditional life insurance premiums collected	183,302				180,203				174,497
	Change in due premiums and other	(2		)		741				589
	Traditional life insurance premiums	$	183,300			$	180,944			$	175,086
	There is no comparable GAAP financial measure for premiums collected on annuities and universal life-type products. GAAP revenues for those interest sensitive and variable products consist of various policy charges and fees assessed on those contracts, as summarized in the chart below.
	Interest Sensitive Product Charges by Segment
		Year ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Annuity
	Surrender charges and other	$	1,927			$	1,236			$	775
	Life Insurance
	Administration charges	$	13,783			$	19,602			$	11,726
	Cost of insurance charges	45,273				42,697				39,886
	Surrender charges	737				484				943
	Amortization of policy initiation fees	1,504				1,462				2,354
	Total	$	61,297			$	64,245			$	54,909
	Corporate and Other
	Administration charges	$	6,212			$	6,138			$	5,975
	Cost of insurance charges	29,569				29,567				29,638
	Surrender charges	479				525				780
	Separate account charges	9,157				8,742				8,372
	Amortization of policy initiation fees	1,129				1,122				961
	Total	$	46,546			$	46,094			$	45,726
	Consolidated interest sensitive product charges	$	109,770			$	111,575			$	101,410
Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block]
	Premium Concentration by State
		Year ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Life and annuity collected premiums:
	Iowa	25.7	%		27.6	%		28.7	%
	Kansas	20.8			20			21.9
	Oklahoma	8.2			7.7			7.3

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio1

Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Unaudited Quarterly Results of Operations
		2014
	Quarter ended	March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Premiums and product charges	$	72,583		$	74,805	$	72,653	$	73,029
	Net investment income	92,631			95,215		95,744		98,492
	Realized gains (losses) on investments	(540		)	2,806		1,000		(328		)
	Total revenues	168,535			175,837		173,420		175,147
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	22,992			28,642		30,159		28,148
	Earnings per common share	$	0.92		$	1.15	$	1.21	$	1.13
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$	0.91		$	1.14	$	1.21	$	1.13
		2013
	Quarter ended	March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
	Premiums and product charges	$	70,238		$	72,853	$	76,153	$	73,275
	Net investment income	90,810			92,898		93,382		93,561
	Realized gains on investments	3,286			7,236		693		2,340
	Total revenues	168,048			176,683		173,516		172,984
	Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	24,966			29,587		27,053		26,952
	Earnings per common share	$	0.97		$	1.14	$	1.05	$	1.08
	Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$	0.96		$	1.13	$	1.04	$	1.07

Sale_of_EquiTrust_Life_Busines1

Sale of EquiTrust Life Business (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]
	Condensed Statements of Loss from Discontinued Operations
		Year ended December 31, 2012
		(Dollars in thousands)
	Benefits and expenses	$	(214	)
	Interest expense allocation	(855		)
	Income taxes	382
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	(687	)

Significant_Accounting_Policie3

Significant Accounting Policies Accounting principles (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	$129,872	$116,305
Low income housing tax credits [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	$84,800	$76,200

Significant_Accounting_Policie4

Significant Accounting Policies Other Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and Equipment, Net	$28.60	$25.80
Accumulated Depreciation	53.2	50.3
Depreciation expense	6.3	4.6	4.8
Goodwill	$9.90

Significant_Accounting_Policie5

Significant Accounting Policies Recognition of costs (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Recognition of underwriting, acquisition and insurance costs [Line Items]
Commission expense, net of deferrals	$22,856	$27,410	$23,712
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	33,303	29,908	37,651
Amortization of value of insurance in force acquired	3,500	2,565	5,562
Other underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses	78,599	78,377	74,981
Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses	$138,258	$138,260	$141,906

Significant_Accounting_Policie6

Significant Accounting Policies Other income other expense (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other income and other expense [Line Items]
Real Estate Owned, Valuation Allowance	$0.40	$0.10
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired [Abstract]
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, assumptions, interest accrual rate	3.90%	4.56%	4.70%
Future policy benefits:
Interest Sensitive Life, Interest Rate Assumptions, Low End	1.00%	1.00%	1.00%
Interest Sensitive Life, Interest Rate Assumptions, High End	5.50%	5.50%	5.50%
Traditional Life, Interest Rate, Low End	2.00%
Traditional Life, Interest Rate, High End	6.00%
Future policy benefits, assumptions, average rate in investment yields in gross margin estimation	5.75%	5.84%	5.84%
Other Policyholder Claims and Benefits
Premiums from policies subject to participation in dividends	30.00%	30.00%	35.00%
Contracts in force subject to participation in dividends	11.00%	11.00%	12.00%
Farm Bureau Property & Casualty insurance company [Member]
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Lease income	3.1	2.2	2.4
Investment Advisory Fees	1.9	1.7	1.5
Subsidiaries [Member]
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Nonoperating Income (Expense)	3.2	3	3.3
Former subsidiary [Member]
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)		$0	3.5

Investment_Operations_Availabl

Investment Operations Available for Sale Securities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis			$90,071
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	5,873		3,867
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	660		2,383
Available-for-sale Securities			91,555
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities		[1]
Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	6,111,433		5,828,539
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	616,360		369,097
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	27,095		115,883
Available-for-sale Securities	6,700,698		6,081,753
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	1,740	[1]	-2,101	[1]
Corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,335,535		3,142,476
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	348,937		229,151
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	17,566		64,848
Available-for-sale Securities	3,666,906		3,306,779
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	211		329
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	80,900		76,300
Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	29,900		17,100
Residential mortgage-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	453,607		492,990
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	42,510		35,676
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	4,583		7,938
Available-for-sale Securities	491,534		520,728
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	-3,694		-4,155
Commercial mortgage-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	485,934		391,845
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	45,573		20,014
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	812		7,192
Available-for-sale Securities	530,695		404,667
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	0		0
Other asset-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	508,090		444,047
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	17,188		19,169
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	4,017		6,673
Available-for-sale Securities	521,261		456,543
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	5,223		1,725
United States Government and agencies
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	38,227		39,261
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	4,581		4,218
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	4		198
Available-for-sale Securities	42,804		43,281
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	0		0
State, municipal and other governments
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,290,040		1,317,920
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	157,571		60,869
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	113		29,034
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498		1,349,755
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Portion in Other Comprehensive Income, Before Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Available-for-sale Securities	0		0
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	107,410
Available-for-sale Securities	112,623
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	80,566		65,692
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	5,135		3,141
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	660		2,383
Available-for-sale Securities	85,041		66,450
Common stocks
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	26,844		24,379
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	738		726
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0		0
Available-for-sale Securities	$27,582		$25,105
[1]	Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on OTTI's are included in the gross unrealized gains and losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for corporate and other asset-backed securities were in an unrealized gain position at December 31, 2014 and at December 31, 2013 due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.

Investment_Operations_Availabl1

Investment Operations Available-for-sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis	$93,299
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value	94,846
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis	758,104
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value	843,133
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Amortized Cost Basis	890,121
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value	963,230
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis	2,922,278
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value	3,255,999
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities with Maturity Date, Amortized Cost	4,663,802
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities with Maturity Date, Fair Value	5,157,208
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis	1,447,631
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value	1,543,490
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis	6,111,433	5,828,539
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	$6,700,698	$6,081,753

Investment_Operations_Net_Unre

Investment Operations Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax	$594,478	$254,698
Assumed changes in amortization of DAC	179,544	55,550
Impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	3,939	6,356	15,346
Assumed changes in amortization patter of URR	11,461	2,790
Assumed changes in policyholder liability	-11,182	-2,957
Provision for deferred income taxes	143,932	67,404
Net Unrealized gains losses on investments in Accumulated other comprehensive Income	267,342	125,221
Debt Securities [Member]
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax	589,265	253,214
Equity Securities [Member]
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax	$5,213	$1,484

Investment_Operations_Change_i

Investment Operations Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments in AOCI (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments	$339,780	($377,552)	$249,959
Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments	336,051	-374,923	247,581
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments	$3,729	($2,629)	$2,378

Investment_Operations_Fixed_Ma

Investment Operations Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	securities	issuers
	issuers	securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	185	440
Available For Sale Securities In Unrealized Loss Positions Qualitative Disclosure Number Of Issuers	160	366
Debt Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	360,669,000	1,407,316,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	12,420,000	95,147,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	251,052,000	144,837,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	14,675,000	20,736,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	611,721,000	1,552,153,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-27,095,000	-115,883,000
percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	203,764,000	802,161,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	9,756,000	60,138,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	142,600,000	43,500,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	7,810,000	4,710,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	346,364,000	845,661,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-17,566,000	-64,848,000
percent of total	64.80%	56.00%
Available for sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Maximum Loss by issuer	1,100,000
Residential mortgage-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	27,889,000	92,020,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	315,000	3,548,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	19,084,000	20,948,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	4,268,000	4,390,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	46,973,000	112,968,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-4,583,000	-7,938,000
percent of total	16.90%	6.80%
Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by Private Enterprises [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available for sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Maximum Loss by issuer	3,600,000
Available for sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Maximum Loss by security	2,300,000
Commercial mortgage-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0	53,647,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0	4,454,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	20,900,000	28,054,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	812,000	2,738,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	20,900,000	81,701,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-812,000	-7,192,000
percent of total	3.00%	6.20%
Other asset-backed
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	128,516,000	101,961,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	2,349,000	1,109,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	55,526,000	33,170,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	1,668,000	5,564,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	184,042,000	135,131,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-4,017,000	-6,673,000
percent of total	14.80%	5.80%
United States Government and agencies
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	500,000	4,407,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0	198,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	470,000	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	4,000	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	970,000	4,407,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-4,000	-198,000
percent of total	0.00%	0.20%
State, municipal and other governments
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0	353,120,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0	25,700,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	12,472,000	19,165,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	113,000	3,334,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	12,472,000	372,285,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-113,000	-29,034,000
percent of total	0.50%	25.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	14,838,000	31,639,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	110,000	1,756,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	4,450,000	4,373,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	550,000	627,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	19,288,000	36,012,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-660,000	-2,383,000
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	14,838,000	31,639,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	110,000	1,756,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	4,450,000	4,373,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	550,000	627,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	19,288,000	36,012,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-660,000	-2,383,000
Utilities sector [Member] | Corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	90,200,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-6,600,000
Electric sector [Member] | Corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	30,400,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-3,000,000
Gas pipeline sector [Member] | Corporate
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	36,000,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	-2,200,000

Investment_Operations_Mortgage

Investment Operations Mortgage Loans (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	$629,296	$575,861
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	100.00%	100.00%
Year of origination 2014 [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	86,174	0
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	13.70%	0.00%
Year of origination 2013 [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	81,802	84,478
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	13.00%	14.70%
Year of origination 2012 [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	70,274	72,792
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	11.20%	12.60%
Year of Origination 2011 [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	46,813	48,190
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	7.40%	8.40%
Year of origination 2010 [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	24,797	26,173
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	3.90%	4.50%
Year of origination prior [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	319,436	344,228
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	50.80%	59.80%
0% to 50% loan to value [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	180,884	149,719
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	28.70%	26.00%
51% to 60% loan-to-value [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	189,210	202,025
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	30.10%	35.10%
61% to 70% loan-to-value [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	198,336	204,460
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	31.50%	35.50%
71% to 80% loan-to-value [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	53,480	15,559
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	8.50%	2.70%
81% to 90% loan to value [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	7,386	4,098
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	1.20%	0.70%
South Atlantic [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	191,835	170,529
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	30.50%	29.60%
Pacific [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	94,770	92,538
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	15.10%	16.10%
West North Central [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	85,664	85,629
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	13.60%	14.90%
East North Central [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	80,999	79,128
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	12.90%	13.70%
Mountain [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	62,473	53,460
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	9.90%	9.30%
West South Central [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	50,010	39,780
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	7.90%	6.90%
Other geographical locations [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	63,545	54,797
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	10.10%	9.50%
Office Building [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	269,308	241,951
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	42.80%	42.00%
Retail Site [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	214,710	194,053
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	34.10%	33.70%
Industrial Property [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	125,425	126,151
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	19.90%	21.90%
Other Property [Member]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages	$19,853	$13,706
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	3.20%	2.40%

Investment_Operations_Impaired

Investment Operations Impaired Mortgage Loans (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]
Impaired mortgage loans, Unpaid Principal Balance	$22,103	$22,100
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	857	888	1,694
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	267	429
Impaired mortgage loans, Related Allowance	$20,979	$20,783

Investment_Operations_Allowanc

Investment Operations Allowance on Mortgage Loans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Modifications, Recorded Investment		$18,900,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Allowance on mortgage loans	888,000	1,694,000
Allowances established	0	804,000
Charge offs	31,000	1,610,000
Allowance on mortgage loans	857,000	888,000
Financing Receivables, Impaired, Troubled Debt Restructuring, Write-down		$800,000

Investment_Operations_Componen

Investment Operations Components of Net Investment Income (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									$390,121	$379,754	$370,190
Prepayment fee income and other									9,455	5,098	6,737
Less investment expenses									-8,039	-9,103	-8,866
Net investment income	98,492	95,744	95,215	92,631	93,561	93,382	92,898	90,810	382,082	370,651	361,324
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									333,759	328,979	318,364
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									5,388	4,295	3,508
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									32,759	32,447	32,369
Real Estate [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									140	331	0
Policy Loans [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									8,620	8,502	8,997
Short-term Investments [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross Investment Income, Operating									$0	$102	$215

Investment_Operations_Realized

Investment Operations Realized gains losses on investments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities, Debt	$67,200,000	$138,400,000	$156,300,000
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	-822,000	-2,412,000	-17,027,000
Gain (Loss) on Investments	2,938,000	13,555,000	452,000
Categories of Investments, Cost-method Investments [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Mortgage Loans	0	0	767,000
Gains (Losses) on Real Estate	0	12,000	-25,000
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets	0	-166,000	-13,000
Equity Securities [Member] | Categories of Investments, Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Realized gains/losses available for sale	0	0	309,000
Debt Securities [Member] | Categories of Investments, Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Gross gains - Available-for-sale Securities	4,593,000	18,495,000	16,982,000
Gross losses - Available-for-sale Securities	-833,000	-2,374,000	-541,000
Credit related portion of fixed maturity losses [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	0	-618,000	-5,264,000
Other credit related impairments [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	($822,000)	($1,794,000)	($11,763,000)

Investment_Operations_Credit_l

Investment Operations Credit loss component of other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	($21,592)	($27,712)
Increases to previously impaired investments	0	618
Reduction due to investment sold	4,820	5,944
Reductions due to change of intent to not hold investments	0	794
Balance at end of period	($16,772)	($21,592)

Investment_Operations_Variable

Investment Operations Variable interest entities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Measure of Activity, Revenues	$4,000,000	$4,300,000	$4,100,000
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	17,046,000	17,646,000
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	$17,046,000	$17,646,000

Investment_Operations_Derivati

Investment Operations Derivative instruments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	$7.10	$3.70
Derivative Liability	-8.7	-0.3
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	$2.10	($1.50)	$1.60

Investment_Operations_Other_De

Investment Operations Other (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Deposit Assets	$7,110.50
Investment, Non-Income Producing Flag	3.6
Available-for-sale Securities Pledged as Collateral	409.2
Other Commitment	$47.90

Fair_Value_Details

Fair Value (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	$6,700,698	$6,081,753
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities	112,623	91,555
Available-for-sale Securities		91,555
Mortgage loans	629,296	575,861
Policy loans	182,502	176,993
Derivative Assets	7,100	3,700
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	6,700,698	6,081,753
Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	112,623
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	629,296	575,861
Policy loans	182,502	176,993
Derivative Assets	3,558	993
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	125,217	115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	3,562	2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	3,563,558	3,360,519
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	341,955	349,761
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	239,700	230,819
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	97,000	97,000
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	6,700,698	6,081,753
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	112,623	91,555
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	667,913	594,451
Policy loans	230,070	210,401
Derivative Assets	3,558	993
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	125,217	115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	3,562	2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	3,666,960	3,371,706
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	329,651	320,195
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	239,700	230,819
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	69,772	63,343
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	677,040	686,387
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	6,700,698	6,081,753
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$112,623	$91,555

Fair_Value_Valuation_of_our_Fi

Fair Value Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		$91,555
Derivative Assets	7,100	3,700
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	3,558	993
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	125,217	115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	3,562	2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives	3,666,960	3,371,706
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	85,041	66,450
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	521,261	456,543
Derivative Assets	3,558	993
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	125,217	115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	3,562	2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	7,628,691	6,985,981
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives	8,681	286
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	8,854	286
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Derivative Assets	0	0
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	125,217	115,047
Reinsurance recoverable	0	0
Assets held in separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	826,921	827,588
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives	0	0
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	405,120	370,708
Derivative Assets	3,558	993
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	0	0
Reinsurance recoverable	3,562	2,678
Assets held in separate accounts	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	6,526,380	5,903,013
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives	0	0
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	173	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	267,336	247,585
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	116,141	85,835
Derivative Assets	0	0
Cash and short-term investments, fair value disclosure	0	0
Reinsurance recoverable	0	0
Assets held in separate accounts	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	275,390	255,380
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives	8,681	286
Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	8,681	286
Corporate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,666,906	3,306,779
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,666,906	3,306,779
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,602,667	3,224,785
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	64,239	81,994
Residential mortgage-backed
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	491,534	520,728
Residential mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	491,534	520,728
Residential mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Residential mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	491,534	520,728
Residential mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	530,695	404,667
Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	530,695	404,667
Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	452,804	332,955
Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	77,891	71,712
Mortgage-backed Securities Available-for-sale, Fair Value Disclosure	77,891	71,712
United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	42,804	43,281
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	42,804	43,281
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	15,170	15,291
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	18,569	19,946
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	9,065	8,044
State, municipal and other governments
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498	1,349,755
State, municipal and other governments | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498	1,349,755
State, municipal and other governments | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
State, municipal and other governments | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498	1,349,755
State, municipal and other governments | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	85,041	66,450
Non-redeemable preferred stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Non-redeemable preferred stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	76,987	58,655
Non-redeemable preferred stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	8,054	7,795
Common stocks
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	27,582	25,105
Common stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	27,582	25,105
Common stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,501	3,295
Common stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	24,081	21,810
Common stocks | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Level_3_Fixed_Matur

Fair Value Level 3 Fixed Maturity Securities on a recurring basis by valuation source (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		$91,555
Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	530,695	404,667
percent of total	3.00%	6.20%
Other asset-backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	521,261	456,543
percent of total	14.80%	5.80%
United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	42,804	43,281
percent of total	0.00%	0.20%
State, municipal and other governments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498	1,349,755
percent of total	0.50%	25.00%
Corporate
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,666,906	3,306,779
percent of total	64.80%	56.00%
Residential mortgage-backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	491,534	520,728
percent of total	16.90%	6.80%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	85,041	66,450
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	267,336	247,585
percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	77,891	71,712
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Other asset-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	116,141	85,835
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	42,804	43,281
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	9,065	8,044
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | State, municipal and other governments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,447,498	1,349,755
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | State, municipal and other governments | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	3,666,906	3,306,779
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	64,239	81,994
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Internally priced [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	54,079	43,014
percent of total	20.20%	17.40%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Internally priced [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Internally priced [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Other asset-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	20,870	20,832
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Internally priced [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	9,065	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Internally priced [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	24,144	22,182
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party Vendor [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	213,257	204,571
percent of total	79.80%	82.60%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party Vendor [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	77,891	71,712
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party Vendor [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Other asset-backed | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	95,271	65,003
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party Vendor [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	8,044
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party Vendor [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$40,095	$59,812

Fair_Value_Quantitative_Inform

Fair Value Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Corporate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$41,491	$46,023
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit spread	Credit spread
Input range and weighted average	0.95% - 6.80% (4.92%)	0.91% - 17.08% (7.84%)
Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by Private Enterprises [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	77,891	71,712
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit spread	Credit spread
Input range and weighted average	1.75% - 4.00% (2.89%)	1.75% - 4.50% (2.95%)
Other asset-backed
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	26,937	38,305
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit spread	Credit spread
Input range and weighted average	0.96% - 6.17% (4.31%)	0.74% - 5.06% (3.55%)
United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	9,065
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit spread
Input range and weighted average	1.80% (1.80%)
State, municipal and other governments
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure		7,795
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques		Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions		Credit spread
Input range and weighted average		3.81% (3.81%)
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	8,054
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit spread
Input range and weighted average	3.34% (3.34%)
Asset fair value by technique [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	163,438	163,835
Index Annuity Embedded Derivatives [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques	Discounted cash flow	Discounted cash flow
Fair Value Measurements, Significant Assumptions	Credit risk Risk margin	Credit risk Risk margin
Input range and weighted average	0.70% - 1.70% (1.10%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)	0.30% - 1.70% (1.05%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
Future policy benefits-index annuity embedded derivatives		$286

Fair_Value_Level_3_Financial_I

Fair Value Level 3 Financial Instruments changes in Fair Value recurring basis (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	$255,380		$288,669
Asset Purchases	86,597		40,625
Asset Sales	-36,221		-22,407
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	-273		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9,613		-7,363
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	15,597	[1]	9,270	[2]
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	-56,854	[1]	-54,828	[2]
Asset, Amortization	1,551		1,414
Asset Balance at end of period	275,390		255,380
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Liability Value beginning of period	286		307
Liability, Purchases	7,237		0
Liability, Settlements	-369		-28
Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	1,527		0
Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	0		-7
Liability, Transfers Into Level 3	0		0
Liability, Transfers out of Level 3	0		0
Liability Value end of period	8,681		286
Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	71,712		76,281
Asset Purchases	2,920		0
Asset Sales	-752		-660
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	0		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	8,734		3,996
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	0		0
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	-4,820		0
Asset, Amortization	97		87
Asset Balance at end of period	77,891		71,712
Other asset-backed
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	85,835		95,756
Asset Purchases	83,387		38,468
Asset Sales	-19,165		-13,583
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	0		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	-196		971
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	1,974		4,062
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	-37,074		-39,155
Asset, Amortization	1,380		1,258
Asset Balance at end of period	116,141		85,835
United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	8,044		8,555
Asset Purchases	0		0
Asset Sales	0		0
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	0		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	1,014		517
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	0		0
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	0		0
Asset, Amortization	7		6
Asset Balance at end of period	9,065		8,044
State, municipal and other governments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period			223
Asset Purchases			0
Asset Sales			-218
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings			0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			5
Asset Transfers Into Level 3			0
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3			0
Asset, Amortization			0
Asset Balance at end of period			0
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	7,795		7,391
Asset Purchases	0		0
Asset Sales	0		0
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	0		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	259		71
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	0		5,208
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	0		-4,875
Asset, Amortization	0		0
Asset Balance at end of period	8,054		7,795
Corporate
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance at beginning of period	81,994		100,463
Asset Purchases	290		2,157
Asset Sales	-16,304		-7,946
Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	-273		0
Gain/Loss in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	-198		1,945
Asset Transfers Into Level 3	13,623		0
Asset, Transfers out of Level 3	-14,960		-10,798
Asset, Amortization	67		63
Asset Balance at end of period	64,239		81,994
Investment Contracts [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Liability Value beginning of period	286
Liability, Purchases	7,237
Liability, Settlements	-369		-28
Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	1,527		0
Liability Value end of period			286
Index Annuity Embedded Derivatives [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Liability Value beginning of period	286		307
Liability, Purchases			0
Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	0		7
Liability, Transfers Into Level 3	0		0
Liability, Transfers out of Level 3	0		0
Liability Value end of period	$8,681		$286
[1]	Transfers into Level 3 represent assets previously priced using an external pricing service with access to observable inputs no longer available and therefore, were priced using non-binding broker quotes. Transfers out of Level 3 include those assets that we are now able to obtain pricing from a third party pricing vendor that uses observable inputs. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during 2014 and 2013.
[2]	{F|ahBzfndlYmZpbGluZ3MtaHJkcmoLEgZYTUxEb2MiXlhCUkxEb2NHZW5JbmZvOjY4MjU0NjUwNTYzNTQ5YmY5OWMyODQ1NWVlZWFmYTI0fFRleHRTZWxlY3Rpb246NEIyRUIxRThCRDYyOEFERjNBQ0I4N0NGNjg1NTQxNTEM}

Fair_Value_Valuation_of_Financ

Fair Value Valuation of Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Level (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	$629,296	$575,861
Policy loans	182,502	176,993
Liabilities related to separate accounts	683,033	693,955
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	667,913	594,451
Policy loans	230,070	210,401
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	897,983	804,852
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	3,658,279	3,371,420
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	329,651	320,195
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	239,700	230,819
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	69,772	63,343
Liabilities related to separate accounts	677,040	686,387
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	4,974,442	4,672,164
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	0	0
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	0	0
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	0	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	0	0
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	0	0
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	0	0
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	0	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	0	0
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	667,913	594,451
Policy loans	230,070	210,401
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	897,983	804,852
Liabilities Related to Investment Contracts, Fair Value Disclosure	3,658,279	3,371,420
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	329,651	320,195
Advance premiums and other deposits, fair value disclosure	239,700	230,819
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	69,772	63,343
Liabilities related to separate accounts	677,040	686,387
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	$4,974,442	$4,672,164

Fair_Value_Level_3_Financial_I1

Fair Value Level 3 Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis (Details) (Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member], Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, current year impairment	$1	$1.90
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Period Increase (Decrease)	$0.40	$0.20

Reinsurance_and_Policy_Provisi2

Reinsurance and Policy Provisions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Reinsurance retention limit	$1,500,000
Ceded Premiums Earned	32,513,000	29,360,000	28,863,000
Reinsurance Effect on Claims and Benefits Incurred, Amount Ceded	17,000,000	21,700,000	20,500,000
Assumed Premiums, Life Insurance in Force	592,022,000	613,281,000	612,850,000
Reinsurance effect on in force ceded, percentage	24.30%	24.20%
Ceded Premiums, Life Insurance in Force	13,837,869,000	13,220,004,000	11,999,297,000
Assumed Premiums Earned	783,000	786,000	638,000
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed	1,700,000	1,700,000	300,000
Contracts in Force Subject to Participation Through Reinsurance, Percentage	1.40%	1.50%
100% Quota Share Accidental Death [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Reinsurance retention limit	13,900,000
Company sponsored agent trip [Member] | 100% Quota Share Accidental Death [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum	50,000,000
Home office [Member] | 100% Quota Share Accidental Death [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum	$200,000,000

Reinsurance_and_Policy_Provisi3

Reinsurance and Policy Provisions Value of insurance in force acquired (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Movement in Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination [Roll Forward]
Value of insurance in force acquired	$23,579,000	$17,154,000
Accretion of interest during the year	527,000	902,000	1,068,000
Amortization of asset	-4,026,000	-3,467,000	-6,630,000
Value of insurance in force acquired	22,497,000	23,579,000	17,154,000
Impact of net unrealized investment gains and losses	-3,939,000	-6,356,000	-15,346,000
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits, Amortization Expense	-2,600,000
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months	2,400,000
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Amortization Expense, Year Two	2,400,000
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Amortization Expense, Year Three	2,300,000
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Amortization Expense, Year Four	2,200,000
Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination, Amortization Expense, Year Five	2,100,000
Scenario, Actual [Member]
Movement in Intangible Assets Arising from Insurance Contracts Acquired in Business Combination [Roll Forward]
Value of insurance in force acquired				38,062,000
Value of insurance in force acquired	$26,436,000	$29,935,000	$32,500,000	$38,062,000

Reinsurance_and_Policy_Provisi4

Reinsurance and Policy Provisions GMDB, IDB, GMIB (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Ceded Premiums Earned	$32,513,000	$29,360,000	$28,863,000
Reinsurance Effect on Claims and Benefits Incurred, Amount Ceded	17,000,000	21,700,000	20,500,000
Assumed Premiums Earned	783,000	786,000	638,000
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Assumed	1,700,000	1,700,000	300,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, General Account Value	3,300,000	2,400,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk	60,573,000	61,905,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	62 years	63 years
Net amount at risk by product and guarantee, benefits paid	200,000	300,000	200,000
GMDB return of net deposits [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value	192,334,000	195,593,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk	659,000	791,000
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value	308,101,000	315,176,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk	3,140,000	3,150,000
Incremental Death Benefit [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value	280,214,000	283,556,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk	56,369,000	57,964,000
Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Separate Account Value	41,378,000	42,850,000
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Net Amount at Risk	$405,000	$0

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$32,600,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)	39,562,000	43,264,000	-8,717,000
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	7,773,000	6,058,000	48,788,000
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	47,335,000	49,322,000	40,071,000
Tax impact of Income from Equity Method Investments	-13,372,000	-11,050,000	-6,260,000
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect	0	0	-382,000
Loss on sale of subsidiary, Tax Effect	0	0	-1,213,000
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity [Abstract]
Change in net unrealized investment gains/losses - deferred, Tax	75,032,000	-91,961,000	60,309,000
Issuance of shares under stock option plan, current	-1,148,000	-1,657,000	-2,167,000
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity	73,884,000	-93,618,000	58,142,000
Total tax from all sources provided in our financial statements	$107,847,000	($55,346,000)	$90,358,000

Income_Taxes_Effective_tax_rat

Income Taxes Effective tax rate reconciliation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest	$147,101	$150,305	$118,184
Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate	51,485	52,607	41,364
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income	-3,400	-2,802	-1,741
Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost	-748	-594	-341
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments	-2	111	789
Management fee income from affiliates	$47,335	$49,322	$40,071

Income_Taxes_Components_of_def

Income Taxes Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Policyholder Liabilities	$24,241,000	$22,754,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits	16,952,000	12,048,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards	11,613,000	17,041,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	4,042,000	4,478,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	56,848,000	56,321,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income	208,470,000	90,360,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense, Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	26,170,000	66,583,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	27,906,000	22,217,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	262,546,000	179,160,000
Deferred income taxes	205,698,000	122,839,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$32,600,000

Income_Taxes_Other_tax_disclos

Income Taxes Other tax disclosures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount	$12.20	$9.80	$5.70
Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Noncurrent	$0.50

Credit_Arrangements_Details

Credit Arrangements (Details) (USD $)	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates		$97,000,000	$97,000,000
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	175,000,000
Redemption amount		50,000,000
Trust Preferred Securities Subject to Mandatory Redemption [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share			$1,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding			97,000
Senior Notes, unaffiliated [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates			97,000,000
Capital trust equity [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates			-3,000,000
5% Subordinated Deferrable Interest Notes, due June 30, 2047 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates			100,000,000
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption amount			210,900,000
Trust Preferred Securities Subject to Mandatory Redemption [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates			$97,000,000

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 25, 2013	Dec. 31, 2011
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	390,707	666,659	353,140
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	$12,028,000	$20,156,000	$10,901,000
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$0.60
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage	$0.03
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Per Share	$0.60
Shares of common stock repurchased	-429,746	-1,387,378	-5,528,700
Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Shares		0	0
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	42,700,000
Sale of Stock, Price Per Share				$45.33
Purchase of common stock	-18,460,000	-60,603,000	-181,890,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,715,316	24,754,355	25,475,074		30,650,634
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	552,021,000	492,450,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments	97,800,000
Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	390,707	666,659	353,140
Board of directors members	four to ten
Shares of common stock repurchased	-429,746	-363,430	-5,528,700
Purchase of shares of common stock	18,500,000	14,200,000	181,900,000
Common stock, without par value	144,625,000	134,993,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,703,903	24,742,942	24,282,184		29,457,644
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities		157,529	100
Conversion of Stock, Shares Issued		105,930
Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	0	0	0
Board of directors members	five to seven
Shares of common stock repurchased	0	-1,023,948	0
Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Shares		-157,529	-100
Purchase of common stock		-46,400,000
Common stock, without par value	72,000	72,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	11,413	11,413	1,192,890		1,192,990
Parent Company [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction	71.00%
Common stocks
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	12,028,000	20,156,000	10,901,000
Purchase of common stock	-2,396,000	-8,319,000	-24,879,000
Common stock, without par value	144,697,000	135,065,000	123,228,000		137,206,000
Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Value		0	0
Common stocks | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	12,028,000	20,156,000	10,901,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities		993,000	0
Purchase of common stock	-2,396,000	-1,862,000	-24,879,000
Common stock, without par value	144,625,000	134,993,000	115,706,000		129,684,000
Common stocks | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Issuance of common stock under compensation plans	0	0	0
Purchase of common stock	0	-6,457,000	0
Common stock, without par value	72,000	72,000	7,522,000		7,522,000
Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Value		($993,000)	$0

Stockholders_Equity_AOCI_table

Stockholders' Equity AOCI table (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	$258,410		$119,067		$289,853		$177,845
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax	144,444		-159,941		136,273
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax	-5,101		-10,845		-24,265
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	2,778	[1]	-1,798	[1]	8,051	[1]
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	266,211		126,587		306,167		190,449
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax	141,947		-169,627		125,948
Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	1,131		-1,366		-8,362		-12,703
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax	2,497		9,686		10,325
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-8,932		-6,154		-7,952		99
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax	0		0		0
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax	-2,323		-9,953		-10,230
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Write-down of Securities, Net of Tax	0		-2,690		5,984
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	($2,778)		$1,798		($8,051)
[1]	Other comprehensive income is recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities.

Stockholders_Equity_AOCI_Recla

Stockholders' Equity AOCI Reclassifications (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	$3,760		$15,967		$17,479
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	-822		-2,412		-17,027
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax	-5,101		-10,845		-24,265
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	2,778	[1]	-1,798	[1]	8,051	[1]
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	-3,760		-16,121		-16,750
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	-186		-921		1,178
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	0		-4,250		-9,372
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax	11		11		35
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	4,263		-2,777		-12,421
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax	-7,848		-16,684		-37,330
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax	2,747		5,839		13,065
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax	5,101		10,845		-24,265
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	-3,760		-16,121		-16,750
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	-186		-809		1,012
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax	0		0		0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	0		0		0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax	3,574		15,312		-15,738
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Tax	1,251		5,359		5,508
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax	-2,323		-9,953		-10,230
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	0		0		0
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	0		-112		166
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net	0		-4,250		-9,372
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax	0		0		0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	0		0		0
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Write-down of Securities, before Tax	0		-4,138		-9,206
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Write-down of Securities, Tax	0		1,448		3,222
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Write-down of Securities, Net of Tax	0		2,690		-5,984
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	0		0		0
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	0		0		0
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax	11		11		35
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	4,263		-2,777		-12,421
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax	4,274		-2,766		-12,386
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	1,496		-968		4,335
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	($2,778)		$1,798		($8,051)
[1]	Other comprehensive income is recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities.

Stockholders_Equity_Dividend_d

Stockholders' Equity Dividend disclosures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock Special Dividends Per Share Cash Paid	$2
Payment Of Special Cash Dividend	$51,400,000
Dividend Payments Restrictions Schedule, Statutory Capital and Surplus	418,538,000	358,967,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments	97,800,000
Parent Company [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	$45,700,000	$140,000,000	$45,000,000

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl3

Retirement and Compensation Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Entity Tax Identification Number	421411715
Multiemployer Plan Number	1
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	$16,800	$22,500	$15,000

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl4

Retirement and Compensation Plans Funding Status and Net Periodic Pension Costs (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	$257,010,000	$250,820,000
United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets	-20,512,000	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation	-20,512,000	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation	292,449,000	330,320,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	5,295,000	6,472,000	8,117,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	13,919,000	13,384,000	12,706,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)	-50,315,000	41,794,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	-2,327,000	-15,933,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation	339,139,000	292,449,000	330,320,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	250,820,000	220,000,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets	12,229,000	24,253,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	16,800,000	22,500,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	-2,327,000	-15,933,000
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	257,010,000	250,820,000	220,000,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	-82,129,000	-41,629,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	305,388,000	266,891,000
Other Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation	23,265,000	26,664,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	269,000	252,000	442,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,077,000	1,035,000	1,160,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)	-5,464,000	1,305,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	-3,346,000	-3,381,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation	26,729,000	23,265,000	26,664,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer	3,346,000	3,381,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid	-3,346,000	-3,381,000
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	0	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan	-26,729,000	-23,265,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation	$23,973,000	$21,944,000

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl5

Retirement and Compensation Plans Net periodic pension costs incurred by the plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	$269,000	$252,000	$442,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	1,077,000	1,035,000	1,160,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	0	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	-11,000	-11,000	-11,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)	1,131,000	1,267,000	1,108,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements	0	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	2,466,000	2,543,000	2,699,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	-100,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)	1,500,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year, Description	4.1
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	4,100,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	3,200,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	2,200,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	2,400,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	3,100,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	8,900,000
Net periodic pension cost individual entity share	1,372,000	1,436,000	1,533,000
United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost	5,295,000	6,472,000	8,117,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost	13,919,000	13,384,000	12,706,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets	-17,504,000	-15,666,000	-14,081,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	144,000	144,000	424,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)	6,087,000	12,468,000	9,467,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements	-6,306,000	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	14,247,000	16,802,000	16,633,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Prior Service Cost (Credit)	100,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss)	10,400,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year	15,000,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months	26,400,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two	24,800,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three	21,900,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four	24,600,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five	23,700,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter	117,000,000
Net periodic pension cost individual entity share	4,569,000	5,363,000	5,437,000
FBL Financial Group, Inc., participant [Member] | United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year	$4,800,000
FBL Financial Group, Inc participant in other plans [Member] | Other Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year, Description	2.2

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl6

Retirement and Compensation Plans FBL's share of prepaid or accrued pension costs (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multiemployer unrecognized liability for underfunded status	$82,100,000	$41,600,000
United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits	17,148,000	16,330,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet	17,148,000	16,330,000
Other Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits	1,417,000	1,284,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities	-21,437,000	-17,302,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet	-20,020,000	-16,018,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax	14,035,000	9,701,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Prior Service Cost Credit, after Tax	-13,000	-24,000
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	$14,022,000	$9,677,000

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl7

Retirement and Compensation Plans Weighted average assumptions (Details)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate	4.05%		4.05%	4.99%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase	3.00%		3.00%	3.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate	4.42%	4.99%		4.18%	4.67%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets			7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase			3.00%	3.00%	4.00%
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage			0.55
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	58.00%		58.00%
Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage			0.4
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	40.00%		40.00%
Alternative investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage			0.05
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%		2.00%

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl8

Retirement and Compensation Plans Fair Values of plan assets by category and hierarchy (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$257,010,000	$250,820,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	61,088,000	62,209,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	50,860,000	56,257,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	145,062,000	132,354,000	122,510,000
Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	31,499,000	31,325,000
Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	31,499,000	31,325,000
Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
U.S. Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25,250,000	24,934,000
U.S. Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
U.S. Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25,250,000	24,934,000
U.S. Equity Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Private Equity Funds, Foreign [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	29,589,000	30,884,000
Private Equity Funds, Foreign [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	29,589,000	30,884,000
Private Equity Funds, Foreign [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Private Equity Funds, Foreign [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Money Market Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	543,000	6,904,000
Money Market Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Money Market Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	543,000	6,904,000
Money Market Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,249,000	12,166,000
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,249,000	12,166,000
Fixed Income Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,818,000	12,253,000
Real Estate Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Real Estate Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,818,000	12,253,000
Real Estate Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Group annuity contract [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	128,244,000	117,226,000
Group annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Group annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Group annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	128,244,000	117,226,000	109,275,000
Funded annuity contract [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,298,000	12,932,000
Funded annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Funded annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Funded annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	12,298,000	12,932,000	13,235,000
Limited partnership [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,520,000	2,196,000
Limited partnership [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Limited partnership [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	0
Limited partnership [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$4,520,000	$2,196,000	$0

Retirement_and_Compensation_Pl9

Retirement and Compensation Plans Level 3 plan assets changes in fair value (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	$257,010,000	$250,820,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	132,354,000	122,510,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements	6,560,000	3,948,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held	6,148,000	5,896,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Transfers Between Measurement Levels	0	0	[1]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	145,062,000	132,354,000
Funded annuity contract [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	12,298,000	12,932,000
Funded annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	12,932,000	13,235,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements	-1,376,000	-1,103,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held	742,000	800,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Transfers Between Measurement Levels	0	0
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	12,298,000	12,932,000
Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	12,818,000	12,253,000
Real Estate Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	0	0
Limited partnership [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	4,520,000	2,196,000
Limited partnership [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	2,196,000	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements	2,107,000	2,258,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held	217,000	-62,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Transfers Between Measurement Levels	0	0	[1]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	4,520,000	2,196,000
Group annuity contract [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	128,244,000	117,226,000
Group annuity contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair Value of Plan Assets beginning of period	117,226,000	109,275,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements	5,829,000	2,793,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held	5,189,000	5,158,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Transfers Between Measurement Levels	0	0	[1]
Fair Value of Plan Assets, End of period	$128,244,000	$117,226,000
[1]	{F|ahBzfndlYmZpbGluZ3MtaHJkcmoLEgZYTUxEb2MiXlhCUkxEb2NHZW5JbmZvOjY4MjU0NjUwNTYzNTQ5YmY5OWMyODQ1NWVlZWFmYTI0fFRleHRTZWxlY3Rpb246NEIyRUIxRThCRDYyOEFERjNBQ0I4N0NGNjg1NTQxNTEM}

Recovered_Sheet1

Retirement and Compensation Plans Other retirement plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$2,000,000		$1,800,000		$900,000
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	2,778,000	[1]	-1,798,000	[1]	8,051,000	[1]
Health and medical post retirement plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	100,000		100,000		100,000
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	$100,000		$200,000		$0
Minimum [Member] | 100% employer match [Member] | Defined Contribution Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer discretionary percentage	2.75%
Maximum [Member] | 100% employer match [Member] | Defined Contribution Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent	4.00%
Defined contribution plan, employer discretionary percentage	5.75%
Maximum [Member] | 100% employer match [Member] | Defined Contribution Plan Grandfathered Choice Participant [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent	2.00%
Maximum [Member] | 50% employer match [Member] | Defined Contribution Pension [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent	2.00%
[1]	Other comprehensive income is recorded net of deferred income taxes and other adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities.

Recovered_Sheet2

Retirement and Compensation Plans Share based compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense				$900,000
Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term				5 years 2 months
Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options, Outstanding, Number	273,060		651,497
Options, Exercises in Period	-378,437
Options, Forfeitures in Period	0
Options, Outstanding, Number	273,060		651,497
Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	273,060
Options, Exercisable, Number	273,060
Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$27.61
Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$27.69
Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$0
Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$27.50		$27.61
Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$27.50
Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$27.50
Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 1 month 14 days
Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 1 month 14 days
Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 1 month 14 days
Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	8,335,000	[1]
Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	8,335,000	[1]
Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	8,335,000	[1]
Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value	6,500,000		6,600,000	5,400,000
Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 0 months
Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options	10,500,000		19,400,000	9,700,000
Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options	2,200,000		2,300,000	1,800,000
Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Nonvested stock released to employees, tax benefit			1,700,000	1,600,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	390,707		666,659	353,140
Number of Shares Available for Grant	3,430,142
Class A common stock compensation plans [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	200,000		300,000	2,100,000
Cash-based restricted stock unit plan [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	1,000,000		1,000,000	200,000
Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense	600,000		600,000	100,000
Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	3,800,000
Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	2 years 3 months 22 days
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units beginning	117,966
Stock units, Grants in Period	67,035
Stock units, Forfeited in Period	-12,668
Stock units, Vested in Period	-43,571
Number of shares or units end of period	128,762		117,966
Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$36.80		$34.92
Stock units, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$38.63		$34.94	$35.10
Stock units, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$36.54
Stock units, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$34.58
share based compensation restricted stock units cash paid expense	1,800,000		500,000
Directors stock grants-cash based units [Member]
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	19,066		17,295
Directors nonrestricted Class A stock grants [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense				0
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	56,759		58,159
Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Number of Shares Available for Grant	117,557
Executive Salary and Bonus Deferred Compensation Plan-cash based units [Member]
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	16,923		13,308
Executive Salary and Bonus Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	90,009		98,630
Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Number of Shares Available for Grant	108,296
Executive excess 401(k) plan-cash based units [Member]
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	79		93
Executive excess 401(k) plan [Member]
Nonvested & restricted Stock Units, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Number of shares or units end of period	2,878		4,355
Health and medical post retirement plans [Member]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost	$100,000		$100,000	$100,000
[1]	Represents the difference between the share price and exercise price for each option, excluding options where the exercise price is above the share price, at December 31, 2014.

Managment_and_Other_Agreements1

Managment and Other Agreements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Farm Bureau Property & Casualty insurance company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Lease income	$3,100,000	$2,200,000	$2,400,000
Equipment Expense	900,000	1,100,000	1,100,000
Management Fees Revenue	1,900,000	1,800,000	1,900,000
Professional and Contract Services Expense	9,300,000	9,700,000	10,000,000
Investment Advisory Fees	1,900,000	1,700,000	1,500,000
Subsidiary of Common Parent [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Professional and Contract Services Expense	1,000,000	900,000	1,000,000
Majority Shareholder [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Royalty Expense	500,000	500,000	500,000
Royalty agreement restriction	$0.10
Other Farm Bureau organizations [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Royalty Expense	1,700,000	1,800,000	1,400,000
Subsidiaries [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Nonoperating Income (Expense)	$3,200,000	$3,000,000	$3,300,000

Committments_and_Contingencies1

Committments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
Change in state insurance guaranty fund	($0.10)	($0.10)	$0.10
Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent	1.4
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	2.3
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	2.3
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	2.3
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	2.3
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	2.3
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	$4.70

Earnings_per_Share_Details

Earnings per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$28,148	$30,159	$28,642	$22,992	$26,952	$27,053	$29,587	$24,966	$109,941	$108,558	$79,940
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax									0	0	-2,939
Dividends on preferred stock									150	150	150
Income available to common stockholders from continuing operations									109,791	108,408	82,729
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic									24,866,284	25,508,522	27,497,146
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment									149,960	265,893	341,402
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted									25,016,244	25,774,415	27,838,548
Income from continuing operations	$1.13								$4.42	$4.25	$3.01
Income (loss) from discontinued operations									$0	$0	($0.11)
Earnings per common share		$1.21	$1.15	$0.92	$1.08	$1.05	$1.14	$0.97	$4.42	$4.25	$2.90
Income from continuing operations									$4.39	$4.21	$2.97
Income (loss) from discontinued operations									$0	$0	($0.10)
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$1.13	$1.21	$1.14	$0.91	$1.07	$1.04	$1.13	$0.96	$4.39	$4.21	$2.87
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount									0	0	790,216
Dividend Payments Restrictions Schedule, Statutory Capital and Surplus	$418,538				$358,967				$418,538	$358,967

Statutory_Insurance_Informatio2

Statutory Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory accounting practices, net gain from operations	$97,799,000	$93,306,000	$92,988,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Net Income Amount	97,393,000	94,583,000	86,589,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus, Balance	552,021,000	492,450,000
Dividend Payments Restrictions Schedule, Statutory Capital and Surplus	418,538,000	358,967,000
Statutory RBC Total adjusted capital	614,201,000	558,355,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Capital and Surplus Required	112,771,000	111,792,000
Statutory RBC Ratio	545.00%	499.00%
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments	97,800,000
Cash Dividends Paid to Parent Company	45,000,000
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments without Regulatory Approval	$52,800,000

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$175,147	$173,420	$175,837	$168,535	$172,984	$173,516	$176,683	$168,048	$692,939	$691,231	$655,540
Operating revenues									687,732	679,639	653,297
Realized gains on investments related to revenue									2,937	13,597	465
Derivative unrealized related to revenues									2,270	-2,005	1,778
Net investment income	98,492	95,744	95,215	92,631	93,561	93,382	92,898	90,810	382,082	370,651	361,324
Investment Income, Net									379,812	372,656	359,546
Investment Income, Nonoperating									2,270	-2,005	1,778
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization									28,945	28,422	41,132
Other Depreciation and Amortization									28,631	28,773	39,223
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Net Investment Gains (Losses)									189	973	1,200
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)									125	-1,324	709
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	28,148	30,159	28,642	22,992	26,952	27,053	29,587	24,966	109,941	108,558	79,940
Operating Income (Loss)									139,442	134,578	116,507
Income tax on operating income									-32,401	-33,985	-33,748
Realized gains losses on investments net of offsets									1,786	8,206	-477
Derivatives unrealized gain net of offsets									1,114	-241	619
Loss on debt redemption net of tax									0	0	-22
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax									0	0	-2,939
Annuity
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues									203,477	197,539	192,001
Investment Income, Net									201,550	196,303	191,211
Other Depreciation and Amortization									5,709	7,186	8,271
Operating Income (Loss)									65,056	63,592	55,910
Life Insurance
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues									390,609	385,325	367,853
Investment Income, Net									146,349	140,510	138,076
Other Depreciation and Amortization									20,027	19,430	25,727
Operating Income (Loss)									51,521	48,814	43,741
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues									93,646	96,775	93,443
Investment Income, Net									31,913	35,843	30,259
Other Depreciation and Amortization									2,895	2,157	5,225
Operating Income (Loss)									$22,865	$22,172	$16,856

Segment_Information_Segment_as

Segment Information Segment assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$9,064,408,000	$8,461,323,000
Segment assets	8,653,413,000	8,268,531,000
Unrealized Gains on assets in AOCI	410,995,000	192,792,000
Goodwill	9,900,000
Annuity
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment assets	3,981,825,000	3,778,018,000
Goodwill	3,900,000
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment assets	1,715,241,000	1,701,368,000
Life Insurance
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment assets	2,956,347,000	2,789,145,000
Goodwill	6,100,000
Farm Bureau Property & Casualty insurance company [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Lease income	$3,100,000	$2,200,000	$2,400,000

Segment_Information_Reconcilia

Segment Information Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Proceeds from Insurance Premiums Collected	$646,600	$635,600	$646,300
Increase (Decrease) in Premiums Receivable	-2	741	589
Traditional life insurance premiums	183,300	180,944	175,086
Interest sensitive product charges	109,770	111,575	101,410
Annuity
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,927	1,236	775
Traditional life insurance premiums
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Proceeds from Insurance Premiums Collected	183,302	180,203	174,497
Life Insurance
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Proceeds from Insurance Premiums Collected	282,098	307,474	255,709
Interest sensitive product charges	61,297	64,245	54,909
Life insurance - interest sensitive [Member]
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Proceeds from Insurance Premiums Collected	98,796	127,271	81,212
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	46,546	46,094	45,726
Admiin charges [Member] | Life Insurance
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	13,783	19,602	11,726
Admiin charges [Member] | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	6,212	6,138	5,975
Cost of insurance charges [Member] | Life Insurance
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	45,273	42,697	39,886
Cost of insurance charges [Member] | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	29,569	29,567	29,638
Surrender charges [Member] | Life Insurance
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	737	484	943
Surrender charges [Member] | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	479	525	780
Separate account charges [Member] | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	9,157	8,742	8,372
Amortization of policy initiation fees [Member] | Life Insurance
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,504	1,462	2,354
Amortization of policy initiation fees [Member] | Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	$1,129	$1,122	$961

Segment_Information_Premium_co

Segment Information Premium concentration (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
IOWA
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	25.70%	27.60%	28.70%
KANSAS
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	20.80%	20.00%	21.90%
OKLAHOMA
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	8.20%	7.70%	7.30%

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio2

Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Premiums and product charges	$73,029	$72,653	$74,805	$72,583	$73,275	$76,153	$72,853	$70,238
Net investment income	98,492	95,744	95,215	92,631	93,561	93,382	92,898	90,810	382,082	370,651	361,324
Realized gains (losses) on investments	-328	1,000	2,806	-540	2,340	693	7,236	3,286	2,938	13,555	452
Revenues	175,147	173,420	175,837	168,535	172,984	173,516	176,683	168,048	692,939	691,231	655,540
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$28,148	$30,159	$28,642	$22,992	$26,952	$27,053	$29,587	$24,966	$109,941	$108,558	$79,940
Income from continuing operations	$1.13								$4.42	$4.25	$3.01
Earnings per common share		$1.21	$1.15	$0.92	$1.08	$1.05	$1.14	$0.97	$4.42	$4.25	$2.90
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$1.13	$1.21	$1.14	$0.91	$1.07	$1.04	$1.13	$0.96	$4.39	$4.21	$2.87

Sale_of_EquiTrust_Life_Busines2

Sale of EquiTrust Life Business (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Loss on sale of subsidiary, net of tax	($2,300)	$0	$0	$2,252
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax		0	0	-687
Operating expense of discontinued operations				-214
Interest expense related to discontinued operations				-855
Tax related to discontinued operations				$382

Sale_of_EquiTrust_Life_Busines3

Sale of EquiTrust Life Business Notes redemption (Details) (USD $)	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$175
Redemption amount		50
Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability			33.1
Senior Notes [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Line Items]
Redemption amount			$210.90

Sch_I_Schedule_of_Investments_

Sch I. Schedule of Investments (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	$7,086,547	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	7,680,970
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	6,111,433	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	6,700,698
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	6,700,698
All Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	3,335,535	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	3,666,906
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	3,666,906
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	1,447,631	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	1,543,490
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	1,543,490
United States Government and agencies
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	38,227	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	42,804
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	42,804
State, municipal and other governments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	1,290,040	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	1,447,498
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	1,447,498
Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	107,410	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	112,623
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	112,623
Banks, Trust and Insurance, Equities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	23,808	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	23,808
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	23,808
Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	3,036	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	3,774
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	3,774
Non-redeemable preferred stocks
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	80,566	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Fair Value	85,041
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	85,041
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	630,172	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	629,296
Real Estate Investment [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	4,032	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	3,622	[2]
Policy Loans [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	182,502	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	182,502
Short-term Investments [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	48,585	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	48,585
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Cost	2,413	[1]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Carrying Amount	$3,644
[1]	On the basis of cost adjusted for repayments and amortization of premiums and accrual of discounts for fixed maturities and short-term investments; original cost for equity securities, real estate and other investments; and unpaid principal balance for mortgage loans and policy loans.
[2]	Amount shown on balance sheet differs from cost due to depreciation and allowance for possible losses deducted from cost.

Sch_II_Condensed_Financial_Inf1

Sch II - Condensed Financial Information on Registrant (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	$6,700,698				$6,081,753					$6,700,698	$6,081,753
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities	112,623				91,555					112,623	91,555
Short-term investments	48,585				108,677					48,585	108,677
Cash and cash equivalents	76,632				6,370					76,632	6,370	78,074	296,339
Amounts receivable from affiliates	2,666				3,145					2,666	3,145
Accrued investment income	76,445				75,186					76,445	75,186
Other assets	70,286				67,266					70,286	67,266
Assets	9,064,408				8,461,323					9,064,408	8,461,323
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Amounts payable to affiliates	188				408					188	408
Current income taxes	2,764				1,499					2,764	1,499
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates	97,000				97,000					97,000	97,000
Liabilities	7,811,526				7,416,532					7,811,526	7,416,532
Preferred stock	3,000				3,000					3,000	3,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	258,410				119,067					258,410	119,067	289,853	177,845
Retained earnings	846,737				787,609					846,737	787,609
Total FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity	1,252,844				1,044,741					1,252,844	1,044,741
Liabilities and Equity	9,064,408				8,461,323					9,064,408	8,461,323
Revenues:
Net investment income	98,492	95,744	95,215	92,631	93,561	93,382	92,898	90,810		382,082	370,651	361,324
Realized gains (losses) on investments	-328	1,000	2,806	-540	2,340	693	7,236	3,286		2,938	13,555	452
Management fee income from affiliates										47,335	49,322	40,071
Other income										14,849	14,506	17,268
Revenues	175,147	173,420	175,837	168,535	172,984	173,516	176,683	168,048		692,939	691,231	655,540
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Interest expense										4,707	6,863	7,952
Loss on debt redemption										0	0	33
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest										147,101	150,305	118,184
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax										0	0	-687
Loss on sale of subsidiary									2,300	0	0	-2,252
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax										0	0	-2,939
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	28,148	30,159	28,642	22,992	26,952	27,053	29,587	24,966		109,941	108,558	79,940
Parent Company [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Investments in subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	1,226,389				1,021,684					1,226,389	1,021,684
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities	53,907				71,507					53,907	71,507
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities	273				0					273	0
Short-term investments	13,461				31,078					13,461	31,078
Cash and cash equivalents	46,042				0					46,042	0	47,994	195,805
Accrued investment income	77				276					77	276
Current income taxes recoverable	425				0					425	0
Deferred income tax assets	17,522				21,879					17,522	21,879
Other assets	9,235				9,489					9,235	9,489
Assets	1,369,997				1,159,655					1,369,997	1,159,655
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	19,401				17,028					19,401	17,028
Amounts payable to affiliates	188				408					188	408
Current income taxes	0				478					0	478
Long-term debt payable non-affiliates	97,000				97,000					97,000	97,000
Liabilities	117,153				114,914					117,153	114,914
Preferred stock	3,000				3,000					3,000	3,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	258,410				119,067					258,410	119,067
Retained earnings	846,737				787,609					846,737	787,609
Total FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity	1,252,844				1,044,741					1,252,844	1,044,741
Liabilities and Equity	1,369,997				1,159,655					1,369,997	1,159,655
Revenues:
Net investment income										2,689	2,120	557
Realized gains (losses) on investments										1,047	33	-25
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)										45,700	140,000	45,000
Management fee income from affiliates										1,011	5,316	4,010
Other income										7	22	3,804
Revenues										60,204	146,007	53,498
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Interest expense										4,723	6,967	7,935
Loss on debt redemption										0	0	33
General and administrative expenses										8,471	9,582	12,902
Total expenses										13,194	16,549	20,870
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest										47,010	129,458	32,628
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent										48,021	134,774	36,638
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax										0	0	-687
Equity in undistributed income of subsidiary										61,920	-26,216	46,241
Net income from continuing operations, parent plus equity income in subsidiaries										109,941	108,558	82,879
Loss on sale of subsidiary										0	0	-2,252
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax										0	0	-2,939
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.										109,941	108,558	79,940
Common Class A
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Common stock, without par value	144,625				134,993					144,625	134,993
Common Class A | Parent Company [Member]
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Common stock, without par value	144,625				134,993					144,625	134,993
Common Class B
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Common stock, without par value	72				72					72	72
Common Class B | Parent Company [Member]
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Common stock, without par value	72				72					72	72
Affiliated Entity [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Amounts receivable from affiliates	2,666				3,145					2,666	3,145
Revenues:
Management Fees Revenue										1,925	1,760	1,907
Subsidiaries [Member]
Assets [Abstract]
Amounts receivable from affiliates	0				597					0	597
Liabilities and stockholders' equity
Amounts payable to affiliates	564				0					564	0
Subsidiaries [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Revenues:
Management Fees Revenue										8,836	2,072	2,255
Dividends in form of cash [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Revenues:
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)										$45,700	$92,135	$5,089

Sch_II_Condensed_Financial_Inf2

Sch II - Condensed Financial Information on Registrant Cash Flow (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities	$208,758	$182,275	$206,479
Short-term investments, net change	60,092	-34,161	-32,760
Proceeds received from sale of subsidiary	0	0	9,315
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities	-308,643	-277,961	-548,706
Transfer from restricted debt defeasance trusts	0	0	211,627
Repayments of debt	0	-50,000	-174,258
Excess tax deductions on stock-based compensation	1,199	1,964	2,393
Repurchase of common stock, net	-8,003	-43,707	-173,253
Dividends paid	-34,749	-64,775	-11,082
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities	170,147	23,982	123,962
Increase in cash and cash equivalents	70,262	-71,704	-218,265
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	76,632	6,370	78,074
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	6,370	78,074	296,339
Income Taxes Paid, Net	-22,802	-21,001	27,957
Cash paid during the period for interest	4,850	7,104	11,383
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities	4,200	-5,750	-3,984
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities	21,347	45,808	793
Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities	0	-15,192	-4,866
Short-term investments, net change	17,617	-6,577	11,045
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	45,700	140,000	45,000
Proceeds received from sale of subsidiary	0	0	-9,315
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities	84,395	116,174	2,746
Transfer from restricted debt defeasance trusts	0	0	211,627
Repayments of debt	0	-50,000	-174,258
Excess tax deductions on stock-based compensation	1,199	1,964	2,393
Repurchase of common stock, net	-8,003	-43,707	-173,253
Capital contribution by parent to subsidiary	-1,000	-1,900	-2,000
Dividends paid	-34,749	-64,775	-11,082
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities	-42,553	-158,418	-146,573
Increase in cash and cash equivalents	46,042	-47,994	-147,811
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	46,042	0	47,994
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	0	47,994	195,805
Income Taxes Paid, Net	-6,927	-9,182	54,237
Cash paid during the period for interest	4,850	7,104	11,383
Dividends in form of cash [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	$45,700	$92,135	$5,089

Sch_II_Condensed_Financial_Inf3

Sch II - Condensed Financial Information on Registrant Notes - Dividends and debt (Details) (Parent Company [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	$45,700	$140,000	$45,000
Dividends in form of cash [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	45,700	92,135	5,089
Dividends in form of securities [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Dividends from subsidiaries (eliminated in consolidation)	$0	$47,865	$39,911

Sch_III_Supplementary_Insuranc1

Sch III Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Supplementary Insurance Information, Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	$220,760	$335,514	$204,326
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	6,147,935	5,819,495	5,532,443
Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums	12,078	20,045	14,550
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	590,634	590,202	587,758
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	293,070	292,519	276,496
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	382,082	370,651	361,324
Investment Income, Nonoperating	2,270	-2,005	1,778
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	374,416	364,070	352,677
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	33,303	29,908	37,651
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Net Investment Gains (Losses)	189	973	1,200
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)	125	-1,324	709
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	104,955	108,352	104,255
Scenario, Actual [Member] | Annuity
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Supplementary Insurance Information, Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	82,778	82,404	82,396
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	3,370,109	3,172,598	3,047,762
Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	372,244	376,879	384,375
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	1,927	1,236	775
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	201,550	196,303	191,211
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	105,669	102,308	102,961
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	10,477	9,422	9,327
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	22,275	22,217	23,803
Scenario, Actual [Member] | Life Insurance
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Supplementary Insurance Information, Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	232,020	216,743	199,266
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	2,372,108	2,254,194	2,104,973
Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums	10,111	8,884	13,585
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	193,567	191,478	182,597
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	244,597	245,148	229,986
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	146,349	140,510	138,076
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	238,841	231,861	218,856
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	15,594	15,760	21,216
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	72,641	75,571	69,765
Scenario, Actual [Member] | Corporate and Other
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Supplementary Insurance Information, Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	85,506	91,917	94,984
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	394,536	389,746	379,708
Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums	13,428	13,951	14,519
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	24,823	21,845	20,786
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	46,547	46,093	45,722
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	31,913	35,843	30,259
Supplementary Insurance Information, Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expense	29,470	30,183	30,721
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	6,929	5,170	5,326
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	10,032	10,499	10,582
Scenario, Adjustment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Supplementary Insurance Information, Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	-179,544	-55,550	-172,320
Supplementary Insurance Information, Liability for Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims and Loss Expense Reserves	11,182	2,957	0
Supplementary Insurance Information, Unearned Premiums	-11,461	-2,790	-13,554
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	0	0	0
Supplementary Insurance Information, Premium Revenue	0	0	0
Unearned revenue reserve, amortization due to realized gains	-1	42	13
Supplementary Insurance Information, Net Investment Income	0	0	0
Investment Income, Nonoperating	2,270	-2,005	1,778
Deferred sales inducements, amortization due to realized gains losses	4	28	22
Deferred sales inducements, amortization due to unrealized gains losses	432	-310	117
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Net Investment Gains (Losses)	178	880	1,073
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense, Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)	125	-1,324	709
Supplementary Insurance Information, Other Operating Expense	0	0	0
Present Value of Future Profits, amortization due to realized gains losses	$7	$65	$105

Sch_IV_Reinsurance_Details

Sch IV Reinsurance (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Premiums, Life Insurance in Force	$57,010,809	$54,603,479	$51,955,217
Ceded Premiums, Life Insurance in Force	13,837,869	13,220,004	11,999,297
Assumed Premiums, Life Insurance in Force	592,022	613,281	612,850
Premiums, Net, Life Insurance in Force	43,764,962	41,996,756	40,568,770
Life Insurance in Force Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	1.40%	1.50%	1.50%
Direct Premiums Earned	325,182	321,498	305,129
Ceded Premiums Earned	32,513	29,360	28,863
Assumed Premiums Earned	783	786	638
Premiums Earned, Net	293,452	292,924	276,904
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.30%	0.30%	0.20%
Interest sensitive product charges
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Premiums Earned	110,431	112,229	102,027
Ceded Premiums Earned	1,026	1,026	1,010
Assumed Premiums Earned	365	372	393
Premiums Earned, Net	109,770	111,575	101,410
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.30%	0.30%	0.40%
Traditional life insurance premiums
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Premiums Earned	206,701	200,729	194,090
Ceded Premiums Earned	23,819	20,199	19,249
Assumed Premiums Earned	418	414	245
Premiums Earned, Net	183,300	180,944	175,086
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.20%	0.20%	0.10%
Accident and health premiums
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Premiums Earned	8,050	8,540	9,012
Ceded Premiums Earned	7,668	8,135	8,604
Assumed Premiums Earned	0	0	0
Premiums Earned, Net	$382	$405	$408
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%