FBL Financial (FFG) 10-Q 2 May 19 2019 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and entity information

Document and entity information Document - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	FBL FINANCIAL GROUP INC
Entity Central Index Key	0001012771
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2019
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float	$ 771,615,180
Common Class A
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		24,641,535
Common Class B
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		11,413

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Investments:
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost: 2019 - $6,873,217; 2018 - $6,856,277)	$ 7,231,584	$ 7,033,045
Equity securities at fair value (cost: 2019 - $104,814; 2018 - $93,564)	108,525	92,857
Mortgage loans	1,023,655	1,039,829
Real estate	1,543	1,543
Policy loans	199,230	197,366
Short-term investments	11,515	15,713
Other investments	44,663	33,765
Total investments	8,620,715	8,414,118
Cash and cash equivalents	6,057	19,035
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	64,377	60,962
Accrued investment income	80,102	74,524
Amounts receivable from affiliates	5,735	3,812
Reinsurance recoverable	103,825	102,386
Deferred acquisition costs	373,711	418,802
Value of insurance in force acquired	6,259	10,385
Current income taxes recoverable	3,510	4,807
Other assets	169,756	163,518
Assets held in separate accounts	614,121	561,281
Total assets	10,048,168	9,833,630
Future policy benefits:
Interest sensitive products	5,426,491	5,403,125
Traditional life insurance and accident and health products	1,815,340	1,802,346
Other policy claims and benefits	44,418	51,298
Advance premiums and other deposits	264,544	260,252
Supplementary contracts without life contingencies	303,771	303,627
Amounts payable to affiliates	953	1,461
Short-term debt payable to non-affiliates	4,000	0
Long-term debt payable to non-affiliates	97,000	97,000
Deferred income taxes	103,300	75,449
Other liabilities	110,709	93,532
Liabilities related to separate accounts	614,121	561,281
Total liabilities	8,784,647	8,649,371
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	189,166	91,318
Retained earnings	918,718	937,097
Total FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders’ equity	1,263,400	1,184,139
Noncontrolling interest	121	120
Total stockholders’ equity	1,263,521	1,184,259
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	10,048,168	9,833,630
Class A common stock, without par value - authorized 88,500,000 shares, issued and outstanding 24,640,927 shares in 2019 and 24,707,402 shares in 2018
FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Common stock, without par value	152,444	152,652
Class B common stock, without par value - authorized 1,500,000 shares, issued and outstanding 11,413 shares in 2019 and 2018
FBL Financial Group, Inc. stockholders' equity:
Common stock, without par value	$ 72	$ 72

Consolidated Balance Sheet Pare

Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical disclosure - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis	$ 6,873,217	$ 6,856,277
Equity Securities, Cost	$ 104,814	$ 93,564
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	24,652,340	24,718,815
Preferred Stock
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 Class A
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	88,500,000	88,500,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	24,640,927	24,707,402
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	24,640,927	24,707,402
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 Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Revenues:
Interest sensitive product charges	$ 31,266	$ 30,098
Traditional life insurance premiums	49,392	49,497
Net investment income	109,640	101,022
Net realized capital gains (losses)	10,157	(1,747)
Net other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in earnings	(869)	(1,040)
Other income	3,970	4,600
Total revenues	203,556	182,430
Benefits and expenses:
Interest sensitive product benefits	70,596	61,345
Traditional life insurance benefits	46,675	45,456
Policyholder dividends	2,534	2,551
Underwriting, acquisition and insurance expenses	36,189	39,577
Interest expense	1,212	1,213
Other expenses	6,250	5,593
Total benefits and expenses	163,456	155,735
Income before equity method investments, income taxes and noncontrolling interest	40,100	26,695
Income taxes	(6,276)	(3,813)
Equity income, net of related income taxes	220	660
Net income	34,044	23,542
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest	(1)	23
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$ 34,043	$ 23,565
Earnings per common share	$ 1.37	$ 0.94
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$ 1.37	$ 0.94

Consolidated Statement of Compr

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Statement - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Net income		$ 34,044	$ 23,542
Change in net unrealized investment gains/losses	[1]	97,640	(93,154)
Change in underfunded status of postretirement benefit plans	[1]	208	262
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	[1]	97,848	(92,892)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		131,892	(69,350)
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest		(1)	23
Total comprehensive income (loss) applicable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.		$ 131,891	$ (69,327)
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) 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 Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total		Series B Preferred Stock	Class A and Class B Common Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Retained Earnings	Non- controlling Interest
Balance at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 1,377,125		$ 3,000	$ 153,661	$ 284,983	$ 935,423	$ 58
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member]	0				(5,869)	5,869
Net income	23,542					23,565	(23)
Other comprehensive loss	(92,892)	[1]			(92,892)
Stock-based compensation	218			218
Purchase of common stock	(6,806)			(612)		(6,194)
Dividends on preferred stock	(38)					(38)
Dividends on common stock	(48,753)					(48,753)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2018	1,252,396		3,000	153,267	186,222	909,872	35
Balance at Dec. 31, 2018	1,184,259		3,000	152,724	91,318	937,097	120
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax | Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member]	595				0	595
Net income	34,044					34,043	1
Other comprehensive loss	97,848	[1]			97,848
Stock-based compensation	202			202
Purchase of common stock	(4,577)			(410)		(4,167)
Dividends on preferred stock	(38)					(38)
Dividends on common stock	(48,812)					(48,812)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2019	$ 1,263,521		$ 3,000	$ 152,516	$ 189,166	$ 918,718	$ 121
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) 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 Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Operating activities
Net income	$ 34,044	$ 23,542
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Interest credited to account balances	38,531	40,650
Charges for mortality, surrenders and administration	(31,201)	(29,827)
Net realized (gains) losses on investments	(9,288)	3,042
Change in fair value of derivatives	(29)	(534)
Increase in liabilities for life insurance and other future policy benefits	17,507	18,264
Deferral of acquisition costs	(11,739)	(11,293)
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs and value of insurance in force	7,774	10,314
Change in reinsurance recoverable	(805)	2,454
Provision for deferred income taxes	1,822	(3,146)
Other	(1,923)	(1,865)
Net cash provided by operating activities	44,693	51,601
Sales, maturities or repayments:
Fixed maturities - available for sale	128,274	138,254
Mortgage loans	24,603	10,383
Derivative instruments	2,121	4,131
Policy loans	9,095	9,133
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	1,133	1,596
Other long-term investments	1,210	938
Acquisitions:
Fixed maturities - available for sale	(128,578)	(288,677)
Equity securities - available for sale	(11,069)	(1,389)
Mortgage loans	(5,650)	(7,186)
Derivative instruments	(4,432)	(3,219)
Policy loans	(10,959)	(11,148)
Securities and indebtedness of related parties	(4,710)	(4,633)
Other long-term investments	(975)	(5,531)
Short-term investments, net change	4,198	(13,068)
Purchases and disposals of property and equipment, net	(4,049)	(1,859)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	212	(172,275)
Financing activities
Contract holder account deposits	135,844	261,240
Contract holder account withdrawals	(143,456)	(124,978)
Dividends paid	(48,850)	(48,791)
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt	4,000	0
Issuance or repurchase of common stock, net	(5,421)	(5,840)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(57,883)	81,631
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(12,978)	(39,043)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	19,035	52,696
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	6,057	13,653
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for interest	(1,213)	(1,213)
Cash (paid) received during the period for income taxes	$ 0	$ (5)

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of FBL Financial Group, Inc. (we or the Company) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Our financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations. Operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2019 . We encourage you to refer to the notes to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 for a complete description of our material accounting policies. Also included in the Form 10-K is a description of areas of judgments and estimates and other information necessary to understand our financial position and results of operations. New Accounting Pronouncements Description Date of adoption Effect on our consolidated financial statements or other significant matters Standards adopted: Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued a new lease accounting standard, which, for most lessees, results in a gross-up of the balance sheet. Under the new standard, lessees recognize the leased assets on the balance sheet and recognize a corresponding liability for the present value of lease payments over the lease term. The new standard requires the application of judgment and estimates. Also, there are accounting policy elections that may be taken both at transition and for the accounting post-transition, including whether to adopt a short-term lease recognition exemption. January 1, 2019 Upon adoption using the modified retrospective approach, a cumulative effect adjustment of $0.6 million representing the elimination of a deferred gain on a sale-leaseback transaction was recorded to retained earnings and both other assets and other liabilities increased by $7.2 million. We elected the practical expedients provided for under the guidance, but did not use hindsight in determining lease term. We have no finance leases and have elected to treat leases with terms of twelve months or less as short-term leases. The impact to earnings per share due to adopting this guidance for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was less than ($0.01) per share. See Note 6 for additional discussion. Financial instruments - recognition and measurement In January 2016, the FASB issued guidance that amended certain aspects of the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. The new guidance primarily affected the accounting for equity securities, which are now carried at fair value with valuation changes recognized in the statement of operations rather than as other comprehensive income. The presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments and the methodology for assessing the need for a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets resulting from unrealized losses on available-for-sale fixed maturity securities were also revised under the new guidance. The new standard required the use of a modified retrospective method at adoption. January 1, 2018 Upon adoption, we reclassified $5.9 million of net unrealized investment gains, net of adjustments to deferred acquisition costs, interest sensitive policy reserves and income taxes, on our equity securities from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings as a cumulative effect adjustment. Description Date of adoption Effect on our consolidated financial statements or other significant matters Standards not yet adopted: Financial instruments - credit impairment In June 2016, the FASB issued guidance amending the accounting for the credit impairment of financial instruments. Under the new guidance, impairment losses are required to be estimated using an expected loss model under which a valuation allowance is established and adjusted over time. The valuation allowance will be based on the probability of loss over the life of the instrument, considering historical, current and forecasted information. The new guidance differs significantly from the incurred loss model used today, and will result in the earlier recognition of impairment losses. The new guidance may also increase the volatility of earnings to the extent actual results differ from the assumptions used in the establishment of the valuation allowance. The financial instruments for which we will be required to use the new model include but are not limited to, mortgage loans, lease receivables and reinsurance recoverables. Our available-for-sale fixed maturities will continue to apply the incurred loss model. However, rather than impairment losses resulting in a permanent reduction of carrying value as they do today, such losses will be in the form of a valuation allowance, which can be increased in the case of future credit losses or decreased should conditions improve. January 1, 2020 We are currently evaluating the impact of this new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. We believe the most significant impact upon adoption will be the establishment of an additional valuation allowance for our mortgage loan investments. We will apply this guidance using a modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the year of adoption. Targeted improvements: long-duration contracts In August 2018, the FASB issued guidance that will change the accounting for long-duration insurance contracts. The new guidance impacts several facets of the accounting for such contracts including the accounting for future policy benefits associated with traditional non-participating and limited payment insurance contracts as well as for guaranteed minimum benefits and the amortization model used for deferred acquisition costs. Disclosures as well as presentation of financial results will also change under the new guidance. January 1, 2021 We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements, but expect the impact to the timing of profit emergence for the impacted insurance contracts to be significant. Adoption of certain portions of the guidance may be applied on a modified retrospective basis and others on a full retrospective basis. Early adoption is allowed. Reclassifications During the third quarter of 2018, we voluntarily changed our accounting policy for low income housing tax credit investments as discussed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018

Investment Operations

Investment Operations	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Investment Operations [Abstract]
Investment Operations	Investment Operations Fixed Maturity Securities Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity Securities by Investment Category March 31, 2019 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1) (Dollars in thousands) Fixed maturities: Corporate $ 3,259,853 $ 213,704 $ (40,981 ) $ 3,432,576 $ — Residential mortgage-backed 584,767 36,715 (2,733 ) 618,749 3,035 Commercial mortgage-backed 896,528 31,393 (11,217 ) 916,704 — Other asset-backed 680,507 17,781 (3,472 ) 694,816 968 United States Government and agencies 19,555 1,203 (45 ) 20,713 — States and political subdivisions 1,432,007 118,037 (2,018 ) 1,548,026 — Total fixed maturities $ 6,873,217 $ 418,833 $ (60,466 ) $ 7,231,584 $ 4,003 December 31, 2018 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1) (Dollars in thousands) Fixed maturities: Corporate $ 3,231,846 $ 138,972 $ (90,933 ) $ 3,279,885 $ — Residential mortgage-backed 584,133 29,969 (7,242 ) 606,860 2,823 Commercial mortgage-backed 873,672 24,284 (19,390 ) 878,566 — Other asset-backed 697,332 15,567 (5,329 ) 707,570 1,143 United States Government and agencies 19,673 996 (134 ) 20,535 — States and political subdivisions 1,449,621 95,921 (5,913 ) 1,539,629 — Total fixed maturities $ 6,856,277 $ 305,709 $ (128,941 ) $ 7,033,045 $ 3,966 (1) Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) losses are included in the gross unrealized gains and gross unrealized losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for residential mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 were in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities. Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date March 31, 2019 Amortized Cost Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Due in one year or less $ 106,619 $ 107,635 Due after one year through five years 534,193 555,588 Due after five years through ten years 697,348 729,149 Due after ten years 3,373,255 3,608,943 4,711,415 5,001,315 Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed 2,161,802 2,230,269 Total fixed maturities $ 6,873,217 $ 7,231,584 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 on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income March 31, December 31, (Dollars in thousands) Net unrealized appreciation on: Fixed maturities - available for sale $ 358,367 $ 176,768 Adjustments for assumed changes in amortization pattern of: Deferred acquisition costs (96,710 ) (46,732 ) Value of insurance in force acquired (10,469 ) (6,878 ) Unearned revenue reserve 11,297 5,134 Adjustments for assumed changes in policyholder liabilities (12,240 ) (1,642 ) Provision for deferred income taxes (52,551 ) (26,596 ) Net unrealized investment gains $ 197,694 $ 100,054 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. Fixed Maturity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time March 31, 2019 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 $ 211,512 $ (7,452 ) $ 445,481 $ (33,529 ) $ 656,993 $ (40,981 ) 67.8 % Residential mortgage-backed 16,335 (590 ) 89,982 (2,143 ) 106,317 (2,733 ) 4.5 Commercial mortgage-backed 41,535 (673 ) 294,545 (10,544 ) 336,080 (11,217 ) 18.6 Other asset-backed 142,050 (2,218 ) 170,790 (1,254 ) 312,840 (3,472 ) 5.7 United States Government and agencies — — 3,699 (45 ) 3,699 (45 ) 0.1 States and political subdivisions 7,872 (571 ) 23,357 (1,447 ) 31,229 (2,018 ) 3.3 Total fixed maturities $ 419,304 $ (11,504 ) $ 1,027,854 $ (48,962 ) $ 1,447,158 $ (60,466 ) 100.0 % December 31, 2018 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 $ 1,035,176 $ (60,299 ) $ 207,381 $ (30,634 ) $ 1,242,557 $ (90,933 ) 70.5 % Residential mortgage-backed 191,365 (4,482 ) 74,113 (2,760 ) 265,478 (7,242 ) 5.6 Commercial mortgage-backed 302,159 (9,947 ) 148,855 (9,443 ) 451,014 (19,390 ) 15.0 Other asset-backed 250,119 (3,397 ) 149,997 (1,932 ) 400,116 (5,329 ) 4.1 United States Government and agencies — — 6,474 (134 ) 6,474 (134 ) 0.1 States and political subdivisions 144,681 (3,885 ) 16,943 (2,028 ) 161,624 (5,913 ) 4.7 Total fixed maturities $ 1,923,500 $ (82,010 ) $ 603,763 $ (46,931 ) $ 2,527,263 $ (128,941 ) 100.0 % Fixed maturities in the above tables include 412 securities from 271 issuers at March 31, 2019 and 709 securities from 465 issuers at December 31, 2018 . Unrealized losses decreased during the three months ended March 31, 2019 primarily due to lower market interest rates. We do not consider securities to be OTTI when the market decline is attributable to factors such as interest rate movements, market volatility, liquidity, spread widening and credit quality when recovery of all amounts due under the contractual terms of the security is anticipated. Based on our intent not to sell or our belief that we will not be required to sell these securities before recovery of their amortized cost basis, we do not consider these investments to be OTTI at March 31, 2019 . We will continue to monitor the investment portfolio for future changes in issuer facts and circumstances that could result in future impairments beyond those currently identified. As described more fully in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, we perform a regular evaluation of all investment classes for impairment in order to evaluate whether such investments are OTTI. Credit Loss Component of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ (5,963 ) $ (12,392 ) Reductions due to investments sold or paid down 230 271 Reduction for credit loss that no longer has a portion of the OTTI loss recognized in other comprehensive income — 2,529 Balance at end of period $ (5,733 ) $ (9,592 ) The table above sets forth the amount of credit loss impairments on fixed maturities held by the Company as of the dates indicated for which the non-credit portion of the OTTI was recognized in other comprehensive income and corresponding changes in such amounts. Credit loss impairments with no portion of the loss recognized in other comprehensive income, such as securities for which OTTI was measured at fair value, are excluded from the table. Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Realized gains (losses) on investments Fixed maturities: Gross gains $ 2,994 $ 83 Mortgage loans 2,778 — Other (4 ) (13 ) 5,768 70 Net gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities 4,419 (1,817 ) Less net gains and (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period (30 ) — Net gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities held at the end of the period 4,389 (1,817 ) Net realized gains (losses) 10,157 (1,747 ) Impairment losses recognized in earnings: Other credit-related (869 ) (1,040 ) Net realized gains (losses) on investments recorded in income $ 9,288 $ (3,042 ) Proceeds from sales of fixed maturities totaled $6.7 million during the three months ended March 31, 2019 and $5.2 million during the three months ended March 31, 2018 . Realized gains and losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of specific identification. Mortgage Loans Our mortgage loan portfolio consists 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 collateral to absorb losses should we be required to foreclose and take possession of the collateral. In order to identify impairment losses, management maintains and regularly 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. Mortgage loans are placed on non-accrual status if we have concerns regarding the collectability of future payments. Interest income on non-performing loans is generally recognized on a cash basis. Once mortgage loans are classified as non-accrual 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. At March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 , there were no non-performing loans over 90 days past due on contractual payments. At March 31, 2019 , we had committed to provide additional funding for mortgage loans totaling $9.5 million . These commitments arose in the normal course of business at terms that are comparable to similar investments. Mortgage Loans by Collateral Type March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Collateral Type Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) Office $ 438,068 42.8 % $ 443,048 42.6 % Retail 312,276 30.5 310,625 29.9 Industrial 198,973 19.4 211,138 20.3 Other 74,338 7.3 75,018 7.2 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 % Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Region of the United States Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) South Atlantic $ 297,927 29.1 % $ 301,206 29.0 % Pacific 157,713 15.4 162,824 15.7 West North Central 127,499 12.5 126,320 12.1 East North Central 121,913 11.9 117,768 11.3 Mountain 90,475 8.8 101,335 9.7 West South Central 85,003 8.3 85,919 8.3 East South Central 75,442 7.4 76,098 7.3 Middle Atlantic 34,559 3.4 34,843 3.4 New England 33,124 3.2 33,516 3.2 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 % Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value Ratio March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Loan-to-Value Ratio Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) 0% - 50% $ 404,912 39.6 % $ 409,089 39.3 % 51% - 60% 304,608 29.8 314,038 30.2 61% - 70% 270,610 26.4 264,973 25.5 71% - 80% 37,186 3.6 37,418 3.6 81% - 90% 6,339 0.6 14,311 1.4 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 % The loan-to-value ratio is determined using the most recent appraised value. Appraisals are updated periodically when there is indication of a possible significant collateral decline or there are loan modifications or refinance requests. Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Year of Origination Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 5,650 0.6 % $ — — % 2018 136,693 13.4 137,519 13.2 2017 205,744 20.1 207,540 20.0 2016 148,175 14.4 149,437 14.4 2015 127,800 12.5 128,877 12.4 2014 & prior 399,593 39.0 416,456 40.0 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 % Impaired Mortgage Loans March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Unpaid principal balance $ 4,706 $ 18,622 Less: Related allowance (329 ) (3,107 ) Carrying value of impaired mortgage loans $ 4,377 $ 15,515 Allowance on Mortgage Loans Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 3,107 $ 497 Recoveries (2,778 ) (50 ) Balance at end of period $ 329 $ 447 Mortgage Loan Modifications Our commercial mortgage loan portfolio can include loans that have been modified. We assess loan modifications on a loan-by-loan basis to evaluate whether a troubled debt restructuring 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 the three months ended March 31, 2019 or March 31, 2018 . 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 would therefore be required to consolidate it for financial reporting purposes. After determining that we have a variable interest, we review our involvement in the VIE to determine whether we have both the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE, and the obligation to absorb losses or the rights to receive benefits that could be potentially significant to the VIE. This analysis includes a review of the purpose and design of the VIE as well as the role that we played in the formation of the entity and how that role could impact our ability to control the VIE. We also review the activities and decisions considered significant to the economic performance of the VIE and assess what power we have in directing those activities and decisions. Finally, we review the agreements in place to determine if there are any guarantees that would affect our maximum exposure to loss. We have reviewed the circumstances surrounding our investments in VIEs, which consist of (i) limited partnerships or limited liability companies accounted for under the equity method included in securities and indebtedness of related parties and (ii) non-guaranteed federal LIHTC investments included in other assets. In addition, we have reviewed the ownership interest in our VIEs and determined that we do not hold direct majority ownership or have other contractual rights (such as kick out rights) that give us effective control over these entities resulting in us having both the power to direct activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could be potentially significant to the VIE. The maximum loss exposure relative to our VIEs is limited to the carrying value and any unfunded commitments that exist for each particular VIE. We also have not provided additional support or other guarantees that were not previously contractually required (financial or otherwise) to any of the VIEs as of March 31, 2019 or December 31, 2018. Based on our analysis, none of our VIEs were required to be consolidated at March 31, 2019 or December 31, 2018. LIHTC investments take the form of limited partnerships or limited liability companies, which in turn invest in a number of low income housing projects. We use the proportional amortization method of accounting for these investments. The proportional amortization method amortizes the cost of the investment over the period in which the investor expects to receive tax credits and other tax benefits, and the resulting amortization is recognized along with the tax benefits as a component of federal income tax expense on our consolidated statements of operations. The net benefits reflected in federal income tax expense related to LIHTC investments were $0.9 million for the first quarter of 2019 , compared to $0.9 million for the first quarter of 2018 . At March 31, 2019 , we had committed to provide additional funds for limited partnerships and limited liability companies in which we invest. The amounts of these unfunded commitments totaled $44.8 million , including $1.5 million for LIHTC investment commitments, which are summarized by year in the following table. LIHTC Investment Commitments by Year March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 505 2020 165 2021-2025 831 Total $ 1,501 VIE Investments by Category March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Carrying Value Maximum Exposure to Loss Carrying Value Maximum Exposure to Loss (Dollars in thousands) LIHTC investments $ 51,156 $ 52,657 $ 54,037 $ 55,597 Investment companies 44,164 80,590 40,236 79,578 Real estate limited partnerships 8,489 15,344 8,945 15,673 Other 494 504 483 493 Total $ 104,303 $ 149,095 $ 103,701 $ 151,341 In addition, we make passive investments in the normal course of business in structured securities issued by VIEs for which we are not the investment manager. These structured securities include all of the residential mortgage-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities and other asset-backed securities included in our fixed maturities. Our maximum exposure to loss on these securities is limited to our carrying value of the investment. We have determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of these structured securities because we do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entities’ economic performance. Derivative Instruments Our primary derivative exposure relates to purchased call options, which provide an economic hedge against the embedded derivatives in our indexed products. We also have embedded derivatives within our modified coinsurance agreements as well as an interest-only fixed maturity investment. We do not apply hedge accounting to any of our derivative positions, and they are held at fair value. Derivatives Instruments by Type March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Freestanding derivatives: Call options (reported in other investments) $ 15,741 $ 4,745 Embedded derivatives: Modified coinsurance (reported in reinsurance recoverable) 110 157 Interest-only security (reported in fixed maturities) 786 855 Total assets $ 16,637 $ 5,757 Liabilities Embedded derivatives: Indexed products (reported in liability for future policy benefits) $ 51,891 $ 40,028 Modified coinsurance (reported in other liabilities) 99 7,426 Total liabilities $ 51,990 $ 47,454 Derivative Income (Loss) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Change in fair value of free standing derivatives: Call options $ 8,685 $ (1,152 ) Change in fair value of embedded derivatives: Modified coinsurance 633 (943 ) Interest-only security 47 (35 ) Indexed products (9,336 ) 2,664 Total income from derivatives $ 29 $ 534 Derivative income is reported in net investment income except for the change in fair value of the embedded derivatives on our indexed products, which is reported in interest sensitive product benefits. We are exposed to credit losses in the event of nonperformance of the derivative counterparties. This credit risk is minimized by purchasing such agreements from financial institutions with high credit ratings (currently rated A or better by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations). We have also entered into credit support agreements with the counterparties requiring them to post collateral when net exposures exceed pre-determined thresholds that vary by counterparty. The net amount of such exposure is essentially the market value less collateral held for such agreements with each counterparty. The call options are supported by securities collateral received of $11.9 million at March 31, 2019 , which is held in a separate custodial account. Subject to certain constraints, we are permitted to sell or re-pledge this collateral, but do not have legal rights to the collateral; accordingly, it has not been recorded on our balance sheet. At March 31, 2019 , none of the collateral had been sold or re-pledged. As of March 31, 2019 , our net derivative exposure was $4.0 million

Fair Values

Fair Values	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Fair Values [Abstract]
Fair Value	Fair Values 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, or, if 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 into 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 measured at fair value on a recurring basis: 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 asset-backed, United States Government agencies, state and political subdivisions and private placement corporate 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 private placement corporate bonds with no quoted market prices 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 corporate, mortgage- and asset-backed and private placement corporate 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 corporate investments in Level 3 are determined by reference to the public market, private transactions or valuations for comparable companies or assets in the relevant asset class when such amounts are available. For other securities for which an exit price based on relevant observable inputs is not obtained, the fair value is determined using a matrix calculation. Fair values estimated through the 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 corporate bonds 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 that 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 period-to-period price trends to detect unexpected price fluctuations based on our knowledge of the market and the particular instrument. As fluctuations are noted, we will perform further research that 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 mutual funds and common stocks that are actively traded, allowing us to use current market prices as an estimate of their fair value. Level 2 equity securities consist of non-redeemable preferred stock. Estimated fair value for the non-redeemable preferred stock is obtained from external pricing sources using a matrix pricing approach. Level 3 equity securities consist of non-redeemable preferred stock for which fair value estimates are based on the value of comparable securities that are actively traded. Increases in spreads 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 that 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. Other investments: Level 2 other investments measured at fair value include call options with fair values based on counterparty market prices adjusted for a credit component of the counterparty, net of collateral received. 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 - indexed product embedded derivatives : Indexed product contracts include embedded derivatives that 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 that require management judgment include the risk margin as well as our credit risk. Should the risk margin increase or the credit risk decrease, the discounted cash flows and the estimated fair value of the obligation will increase. 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. Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels March 31, 2019 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Fixed maturities: Corporate securities $ — $ 3,405,623 $ 26,953 $ 3,432,576 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 618,749 — 618,749 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 908,579 8,125 916,704 Other asset-backed securities — 687,167 7,649 694,816 United States Government and agencies 7,894 12,819 — 20,713 States and political subdivisions — 1,548,026 — 1,548,026 Total fixed maturities 7,894 7,180,963 42,727 7,231,584 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 80,980 7,129 88,109 Common stocks (1) 16,716 — — 16,716 Other investments — 15,741 — 15,741 Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 17,572 — — 17,572 Reinsurance recoverable — 109 — 109 Assets held in separate accounts 614,121 — — 614,121 Total assets $ 656,303 $ 7,277,793 $ 49,856 $ 7,983,952 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ — $ — $ 51,891 $ 51,891 Other liabilities — 99 — 99 Total liabilities $ — $ 99 $ 51,891 $ 51,990 Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels December 31, 2018 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Fixed maturities: Corporate securities $ — $ 3,257,874 $ 22,011 $ 3,279,885 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 606,860 — 606,860 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 810,626 67,940 878,566 Other asset-backed securities — 703,969 3,601 707,570 United States Government and agencies 7,917 12,618 — 20,535 States and political subdivisions — 1,539,629 — 1,539,629 Total fixed maturities 7,917 6,931,576 93,552 7,033,045 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 77,433 6,862 84,295 Common stocks (1) 5,261 — — 5,261 Other investments — 4,745 — 4,745 Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 34,748 — — 34,748 Reinsurance recoverable — 157 — 157 Assets held in separate accounts 561,281 — — 561,281 Total assets $ 609,207 $ 7,013,911 $ 100,414 $ 7,723,532 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ — $ — $ 40,028 $ 40,028 Other liabilities — 780 — 780 Total liabilities $ — $ 780 $ 40,028 $ 40,808 (1) A private equity fund with a fair value estimate of $3.7 million at March 31, 2019 and $3.3 million at December 31, 2018 using net asset value per share as a practical expedient, has not been classified in the fair value hierarchy above in accordance with fair value reporting guidance. This fund invests in senior secured middle market loans and had unfunded commitments totaling $6.4 million at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 . The investment is not currently eligible for redemption. Level 3 Assets by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Third-party vendors Priced Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Corporate securities $ 7,782 $ 19,171 $ 26,953 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 8,125 — 8,125 Other asset-backed securities 5,000 2,649 7,649 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 7,129 7,129 Total assets $ 20,907 $ 28,949 $ 49,856 Percent of total 41.9 % 58.1 % 100.0 % Level 3 Assets by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis December 31, 2018 Third-party vendors Priced internally Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Corporate securities $ 1,940 $ 20,071 $ 22,011 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 67,940 — 67,940 Other asset-backed securities — 3,601 3,601 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 6,862 6,862 Total assets $ 69,880 $ 30,534 $ 100,414 Percent of total 69.6 % 30.4 % 100.0 % Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Average) (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 18,460 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.06% - 5.95% (3.77%) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 8,125 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.30% - 2.25% (1.90%) Non-redeemable preferred stocks 7,129 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 3.40% (3.40%) Total assets $ 33,714 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 51,891 Discounted cash flow Credit risk Risk margin 0.35% - 1.70% (1.05%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%) December 31, 2018 Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Average) (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 19,178 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.23% - 7.00% (4.01%) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 55,866 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.45% - 3.55% (2.58%) Non-redeemable preferred stocks 6,862 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 4.36% (4.36%) Total assets $ 81,906 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 40,028 Discounted cash flow Credit risk Risk margin 0.55% - 1.80% (1.05%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%) The tables above exclude certain securities with the fair value based on non-binding broker quotes for which we could not reasonably obtain the quantitative unobservable inputs. Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net Balance, December 31, 2018 Purchases Disposals Included in net income Included in other compre-hensive income Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) Amort-ization included in net income Balance, March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 22,011 $ 6,000 $ (1,262 ) $ — $ 212 $ — $ — $ (8 ) $ 26,953 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 67,940 — (92 ) — 195 — (59,918 ) — 8,125 Other asset-backed securities 3,601 5,000 (83 ) — (869 ) — — — 7,649 Non-redeemable preferred stocks 6,862 — — — 267 — — — 7,129 Total assets $ 100,414 $ 11,000 $ (1,437 ) $ — $ (195 ) $ — $ (59,918 ) $ (8 ) $ 49,856 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 40,028 $ 3,479 $ (1,169 ) $ 9,553 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 51,891 March 31, 2018 Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net Balance, December 31, 2017 Purchases Disposals Included in net income Included in other compre-hensive income Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) Amort-ization included in net income Balance, March 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 33,600 $ — $ (1,091 ) $ — $ 30 $ — $ (2,000 ) $ (8 ) $ 30,531 Residential mortgage-backed securities 9,124 — — — — — (9,124 ) — — Commercial mortgage-backed securities 85,701 21,875 (227 ) — (1,838 ) — (13,477 ) (22 ) 92,012 Other asset-backed securities 53,480 8,250 (2,025 ) — 13 — (47,080 ) — 12,638 Non-redeemable preferred stocks 7,407 — — — (82 ) — — — 7,325 Total assets $ 189,312 $ 30,125 $ (3,343 ) $ — $ (1,877 ) $ — $ (71,681 ) $ (30 ) $ 142,506 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 27,774 $ 2,254 $ (942 ) $ (366 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 28,720 (1) 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. The fair values of newly issued securities often require additional estimation until a market is created, which is generally within a few months after issuance. Once a market is created, as was the case for the majority of the security transfers out of the Level 3 category above, Level 2 valuation sources become available. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the periods presented above. The Company has other financial assets and financial liabilities that are not carried at fair value but for which fair value disclosure is required. The following table presents the carrying value, fair value and fair value hierarchy level of these financial assets and financial liabilities. Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels March 31, 2019 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value Carrying Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 1,044,026 $ 1,044,026 $ 1,023,655 Policy loans — — 244,677 244,677 199,230 Other investments — — 29,958 29,958 28,922 Total assets $ — $ — $ 1,318,661 $ 1,318,661 $ 1,251,807 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ — $ — $ 4,101,370 $ 4,101,370 $ 4,215,476 Supplementary contracts without life contingencies — — 305,768 305,768 303,771 Advance premiums and other deposits — — 256,261 256,261 256,261 Short-term debt — — 4,000 4,000 4,000 Long-term debt — — 71,004 71,004 97,000 Liabilities related to separate accounts — — 612,681 612,681 614,121 Total liabilities $ — $ — $ 5,351,084 $ 5,351,084 $ 5,490,629 December 31, 2018 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value Carrying Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 1,045,497 $ 1,045,497 $ 1,039,829 Policy loans — — 237,496 237,496 197,366 Other investments — — 30,087 30,087 29,020 Total assets $ — $ — $ 1,313,080 $ 1,313,080 $ 1,266,215 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ — $ — $ 3,981,947 $ 3,981,947 $ 4,217,904 Supplementary contracts without life contingencies — — 298,869 298,869 303,627 Advance premiums and other deposits — — 252,318 252,318 252,318 Long-term debt — — 65,999 65,999 97,000 Liabilities related to separate accounts — — 559,799 559,799 561,281 Total liabilities $ — $ — $ 5,158,932 $ 5,158,932 $ 5,432,130 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 that have been deemed to be impaired during the reporting period. There were no mortgage loans or real estate impaired to fair value during the three months ended March 31, 2019 or March 31, 2018 .

Defined Benefit Plan

Defined Benefit Plan	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan	Defined Benefit Plan We participate with affiliates and an unaffiliated organization in defined benefit pension plans, including a multiemployer plan. Our share of net periodic pension cost for the plans is recorded as expense in our consolidated statements of operations. Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost for FBL and Affiliates Combined - Multiemployer Plan Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Service cost $ 1,137 $ 1,493 Interest cost 3,318 3,411 Expected return on assets (4,707 ) (5,562 ) Amortization of prior service cost — 11 Amortization of actuarial loss 2,229 3,127 Net periodic pension cost $ 1,977 $ 2,480 FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs $ 633 $ 760 Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost for FBL and Affiliates Combined - Other Plans Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Service cost $ 117 $ 135 Interest cost 248 240 Amortization of actuarial loss 266 338 Net periodic pension cost $ 631 $ 713 FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs $ 362 $ 418

Credit Arrangements (Notes)

Credit Arrangements (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	Credit Arrangements Short-term debt as of March 31, 2019 consists of a $4.0 million short-term advance, collateralized by fixed maturity securities, payable to Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB.) The advance was taken on March 29, 2019 and was paid off on April 1, 2019, with an interest rate of 2.62%

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Legal Proceedings In the normal course of business, we may be involved in litigation in which damages are alleged that are substantially in excess of contractual policy benefits or certain other agreements. We are not aware of any claims threatened or pending against FBL Financial Group, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries for which a material loss is reasonably possible. Lease Commitments As discussed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements, we adopted new accounting guidance for leases. Upon adoption, we elected to follow the following practical expedients as allowed under the new guidance: • We did not reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases. • We did not reassess the lease classification (operating vs. finance) for any expired or existing leases. • We did not reassess initial direct costs for any existing leases. We consider leases with original terms of one year or less to be short-term. We have elected not to carry short-term leases on our consolidated balance sheet. We have no agreements with lease and non-lease components. None of our leases are considered finance leases. At March 31, 2019 and on the date of adoption, January 1, 2019, we held four long-term leases all of which related to real estate. The net present value of future cash flows for these leases is reported within our consolidated balance sheet in other assets and other liabilities. The carrying value of these leases was $6.8 million at March 31, 2019, and $7.2 million on the date of adoption, January 1, 2019. The most significant lease is for our home office facilities, which is owned by a subsidiary of our majority owner, the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. That lease has a carrying value of $5.6 million as of March 31, 2019 and $6.1 million on January 1, 2019. All of the leases are based on fixed terms which expire from 2021 through 2024, but allow renewal. Two of the leases, not including the home office property, contain provisions that allow the lease cost to increase based on a stated step-up schedule or changes in the consumer price index. Our estimated incremental borrowing rate of 4.5% was used in determining the net present value of the future leases commitments. Total lease expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 was $1.3 million . Future remaining minimum lease payments for the long-term leases discussed above, as of March 31, 2019, are as follows: Lease commitments by year March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 1,920 2020 2,573 2021 2,574 2022 222 2023 55 Thereafter 24 Total minimum lease payments 7,368 Less: Interest (526 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 6,842

Stockholders Equity

Stockholders Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity Note	Stockholders’ Equity Share Repurchases We periodically repurchase our Class A common stock under programs approved by our Board of Directors. These repurchase programs 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. Under these programs, we repurchased 66,475 shares for $4.6 million during the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 99,312 shares for $6.8 million during the three months ended March 31, 2018 . Completion of the current 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 that we will repurchase. The share repurchase program may be modified or terminated at any time without prior notice. At March 31, 2019 , $36.3 million remains available for repurchase under the active repurchase program. Dividends Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Class A and B common stock: Cash dividends per common share $ 0.48 $ 0.46 Special cash dividend per common share 1.50 1.50 Total common stock dividends per share $ 1.98 $ 1.96 Series B preferred stock dividends per share $ 0.0075 $ 0.0075 Special cash dividends paid to our Class A and Class B common shareholders totaled $37.0 million in the first quarter of 2019 and $37.3 million in the first quarter of 2018. Reconciliation of Outstanding Common Stock Class A Class B Total Shares Dollars Shares Dollars Shares Dollars (Dollars in thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2018 24,919,113 $ 153,589 11,413 $ 72 24,930,526 $ 153,661 Stock-based compensation 6,762 218 — — 6,762 218 Purchase of common stock (99,312 ) (612 ) — — (99,312 ) (612 ) Outstanding at March 31, 2018 24,826,563 $ 153,195 11,413 $ 72 24,837,976 $ 153,267 Outstanding at January 1, 2019 24,707,402 $ 152,652 11,413 $ 72 24,718,815 $ 152,724 Stock-based compensation — 202 — — — 202 Purchase of common stock (66,475 ) (410 ) — — (66,475 ) (410 ) Outstanding at March 31, 2019 24,640,927 $ 152,444 11,413 $ 72 24,652,340 $ 152,516 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax and Other Offsets Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 295,169 $ 537 $ (10,723 ) $ 284,983 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle related to net unrealized gains on equity securities (2) (5,869 ) — — (5,869 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (95,937 ) 2,808 — (87,260 ) Reclassification adjustments (25 ) — 262 237 Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 193,338 $ 3,345 $ (10,461 ) $ 186,222 Balance at January 1, 2019 $ 96,921 $ 3,133 $ (8,736 ) $ 91,318 Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 99,871 29 — 99,900 Reclassification adjustments (2,260 ) — 208 (2,052 ) Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 194,532 $ 3,162 $ (8,528 ) $ 189,166 (1) Includes the impact of taxes, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities. See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements for further information. (2) See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements for further discussion on this one-time adjustment related to an accounting change. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments Three months ended March 31, 2019 Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Realized capital gains on sales of fixed maturities $ (2,994 ) $ — $ — $ (2,994 ) Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities 133 — — 133 Other expenses - change in unrecognized postretirement items: Net actuarial loss — — 263 263 Reclassifications before income taxes (2,861 ) — 263 (2,598 ) Income taxes 601 — (55 ) 546 Reclassification adjustments $ (2,260 ) $ — $ 208 $ (2,052 ) Three months ended March 31, 2018 Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Realized capital gains on sales of fixed maturities $ (83 ) $ — $ — $ (83 ) Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities 51 — — 51 Other expenses - change in unrecognized postretirement items: Net actuarial loss — — 331 331 Reclassifications before income taxes (32 ) — 331 299 Income taxes 7 — (69 ) (62 ) Reclassification adjustments $ (25 ) $ — $ 262 $ 237 (1)

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings per Share Computation of Earnings per Common Share Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. $ 34,043 $ 23,565 Less: Dividends on Series B preferred stock 38 38 Income available to common stockholders $ 34,005 $ 23,527 Denominator: Weighted average shares - basic 24,765,277 25,003,691 Effect of dilutive securities - stock-based compensation 11,176 15,818 Weighted average shares - diluted 24,776,453 25,019,509 Earnings per common share $ 1.37 $ 0.94 Earnings per common share - assuming dilution $ 1.37 $ 0.94

Segment Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Segment Information [Abstract]
Segment Information	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. Our chief operating decision makers use pre-tax adjusted operating income to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Pre-tax adjusted operating income is not a measure used in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP, but is a common life insurance industry measure of performance. Pre-tax adjusted operating income consists of pre-tax net income adjusted to exclude realized gains and losses on investments and the change in fair value of derivatives and equity securities, which can fluctuate greatly from period to period. These fluctuations make it difficult to analyze core operating trends. In addition, for derivatives not designated as hedges, there is a mismatch between the valuation of the asset and liability when deriving net income (loss). Specifically, call options relating to our indexed business are one-year assets while the embedded derivatives in the indexed contracts represent the rights of the contract holder to receive index credits over the entire period the indexed products are expected to be in force. Adjustments to pre-tax net income are net of amortization of unearned revenue reserves, deferred acquisition costs and value of insurance in force acquired, as well as changes in interest sensitive product reserves. While not applicable for the periods reported herein, in determining pre-tax adjusted operating income we will also remove the impact of: settlements or judgments arising from lawsuits, net of any recoveries from third parties; the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles and discontinued operations. Segment results are reported net of inter-segment transactions. Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Pre-tax adjusted operating income: Annuity $ 15,662 $ 16,582 Life Insurance 10,092 10,897 Corporate and Other 4,319 3,533 Total pre-tax adjusted operating income 30,073 31,012 Adjustments to pre-tax adjusted operating income: Net realized gains/losses on investments (1) 9,152 (2,814 ) Change in fair value of derivatives (1) 1,153 (644 ) Pre-tax net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. 40,378 27,554 Income tax expense (6,276 ) (3,813 ) Tax on equity income (59 ) (176 ) Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. $ 34,043 $ 23,565 Adjusted operating revenues: Annuity $ 52,682 $ 57,435 Life Insurance 107,258 107,727 Corporate and Other 23,128 24,111 183,068 189,273 Net realized gains/losses on investments (1) 9,289 (2,971 ) Change in fair value of derivatives (1) 11,199 (3,872 ) Consolidated revenues $ 203,556 $ 182,430 (1) Amounts are net of adjustments, as applicable, to amortization of unearned revenue reserves, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired and interest sensitive policy reserves attributable to these items. Interest expense is attributable to the Corporate and Other segment. Expenditures for long-lived assets were not significant during the periods presented above. Goodwill at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 was allocated among the segments as follows: Annuity ( $3.9 million ) and Life Insurance ( $6.1 million ). Equity income related to securities and indebtedness of related parties is attributable to the Life Insurance and Corporate and Other segments. The following chart provides the related equity income by segment. Equity Income by Operating Segment Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Pre-tax equity income: Life Insurance $ 370 $ 695 Corporate and Other (91 ) 141 279 836 Income taxes (59 ) (176 ) Equity income, net of related income taxes $ 220 $ 660 Premiums collected, which is not a measure used in financial statements prepared according to GAAP, includes premiums received on life insurance policies and deposits on annuities and universal life-type products. Premiums collected is a common life insurance industry measure of agent productivity. Net premiums collected totaled $160.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 and $169.7 million for the same period in 2018 . 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 Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Traditional and universal life insurance premiums collected $ 78,001 $ 76,263 Premiums collected on interest sensitive products (28,379 ) (26,582 ) Traditional life insurance premiums collected 49,622 49,681 Change in due premiums and other (230 ) (184 ) Traditional life insurance premiums as included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations $ 49,392 $ 49,497 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 Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Annuity Surrender charges and other $ 1,567 $ 1,202 Life Insurance Administration charges 4,667 4,046 Cost of insurance charges 12,633 12,537 Surrender charges 621 681 Amortization of policy initiation fees 1,067 795 Total 18,988 18,059 Corporate and Other Administration charges $ 1,236 $ 1,316 Cost of insurance charges 7,202 7,140 Surrender charges 24 23 Separate account charges 1,936 2,145 Amortization of policy initiation fees 7 397 Total 10,405 11,021 Impact of net realized gains/losses on investments and change in fair value of derivatives on amortization of unearned revenue reserves 306 (184 ) Interest sensitive product charges as included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations $ 31,266 $ 30,098

Significant Accounting Polici_2

Significant Accounting Policies Level 2 (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of FBL Financial Group, Inc. (we or the Company) have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Our financial statements include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of our financial position and results of operations. Operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2019
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Reclassifications During the third quarter of 2018, we voluntarily changed our accounting policy for low income housing tax credit investments as discussed in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018

Investment Operations (Tables)

Investment Operations (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Investment Operations [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturity Securities by Investment Category March 31, 2019 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1) (Dollars in thousands) Fixed maturities: Corporate $ 3,259,853 $ 213,704 $ (40,981 ) $ 3,432,576 $ — Residential mortgage-backed 584,767 36,715 (2,733 ) 618,749 3,035 Commercial mortgage-backed 896,528 31,393 (11,217 ) 916,704 — Other asset-backed 680,507 17,781 (3,472 ) 694,816 968 United States Government and agencies 19,555 1,203 (45 ) 20,713 — States and political subdivisions 1,432,007 118,037 (2,018 ) 1,548,026 — Total fixed maturities $ 6,873,217 $ 418,833 $ (60,466 ) $ 7,231,584 $ 4,003 December 31, 2018 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments (1) (Dollars in thousands) Fixed maturities: Corporate $ 3,231,846 $ 138,972 $ (90,933 ) $ 3,279,885 $ — Residential mortgage-backed 584,133 29,969 (7,242 ) 606,860 2,823 Commercial mortgage-backed 873,672 24,284 (19,390 ) 878,566 — Other asset-backed 697,332 15,567 (5,329 ) 707,570 1,143 United States Government and agencies 19,673 996 (134 ) 20,535 — States and political subdivisions 1,449,621 95,921 (5,913 ) 1,539,629 — Total fixed maturities $ 6,856,277 $ 305,709 $ (128,941 ) $ 7,033,045 $ 3,966 (1) Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) losses are included in the gross unrealized gains and gross unrealized losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for residential mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 were in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	Available-For-Sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date March 31, 2019 Amortized Cost Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Due in one year or less $ 106,619 $ 107,635 Due after one year through five years 534,193 555,588 Due after five years through ten years 697,348 729,149 Due after ten years 3,373,255 3,608,943 4,711,415 5,001,315 Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed 2,161,802 2,230,269 Total fixed maturities $ 6,873,217 $ 7,231,584
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]	Net Unrealized Gains on Investments in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income March 31, December 31, (Dollars in thousands) Net unrealized appreciation on: Fixed maturities - available for sale $ 358,367 $ 176,768 Adjustments for assumed changes in amortization pattern of: Deferred acquisition costs (96,710 ) (46,732 ) Value of insurance in force acquired (10,469 ) (6,878 ) Unearned revenue reserve 11,297 5,134 Adjustments for assumed changes in policyholder liabilities (12,240 ) (1,642 ) Provision for deferred income taxes (52,551 ) (26,596 ) Net unrealized investment gains $ 197,694 $ 100,054
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]	Fixed Maturity Securities with Unrealized Losses by Length of Time March 31, 2019 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 $ 211,512 $ (7,452 ) $ 445,481 $ (33,529 ) $ 656,993 $ (40,981 ) 67.8 % Residential mortgage-backed 16,335 (590 ) 89,982 (2,143 ) 106,317 (2,733 ) 4.5 Commercial mortgage-backed 41,535 (673 ) 294,545 (10,544 ) 336,080 (11,217 ) 18.6 Other asset-backed 142,050 (2,218 ) 170,790 (1,254 ) 312,840 (3,472 ) 5.7 United States Government and agencies — — 3,699 (45 ) 3,699 (45 ) 0.1 States and political subdivisions 7,872 (571 ) 23,357 (1,447 ) 31,229 (2,018 ) 3.3 Total fixed maturities $ 419,304 $ (11,504 ) $ 1,027,854 $ (48,962 ) $ 1,447,158 $ (60,466 ) 100.0 % December 31, 2018 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 $ 1,035,176 $ (60,299 ) $ 207,381 $ (30,634 ) $ 1,242,557 $ (90,933 ) 70.5 % Residential mortgage-backed 191,365 (4,482 ) 74,113 (2,760 ) 265,478 (7,242 ) 5.6 Commercial mortgage-backed 302,159 (9,947 ) 148,855 (9,443 ) 451,014 (19,390 ) 15.0 Other asset-backed 250,119 (3,397 ) 149,997 (1,932 ) 400,116 (5,329 ) 4.1 United States Government and agencies — — 6,474 (134 ) 6,474 (134 ) 0.1 States and political subdivisions 144,681 (3,885 ) 16,943 (2,028 ) 161,624 (5,913 ) 4.7 Total fixed maturities $ 1,923,500 $ (82,010 ) $ 603,763 $ (46,931 ) $ 2,527,263 $ (128,941 ) 100.0 %
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Table Text Block]	Credit Loss Component of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ (5,963 ) $ (12,392 ) Reductions due to investments sold or paid down 230 271 Reduction for credit loss that no longer has a portion of the OTTI loss recognized in other comprehensive income — 2,529 Balance at end of period $ (5,733 ) $ (9,592 )
Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]	Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Realized gains (losses) on investments Fixed maturities: Gross gains $ 2,994 $ 83 Mortgage loans 2,778 — Other (4 ) (13 ) 5,768 70 Net gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities 4,419 (1,817 ) Less net gains and (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities sold during the period (30 ) — Net gains (losses) recognized during the period on equity securities held at the end of the period 4,389 (1,817 ) Net realized gains (losses) 10,157 (1,747 ) Impairment losses recognized in earnings: Other credit-related (869 ) (1,040 ) Net realized gains (losses) on investments recorded in income $ 9,288 $ (3,042 )
Mortgage Loans by Colateral Type [Table Text Block]	Mortgage Loans by Collateral Type March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Collateral Type Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) Office $ 438,068 42.8 % $ 443,048 42.6 % Retail 312,276 30.5 310,625 29.9 Industrial 198,973 19.4 211,138 20.3 Other 74,338 7.3 75,018 7.2 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 %
Mortgage Loans by Geograpic Location [Table Text Block]	Mortgage Loans by Geographic Location within the United States March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Region of the United States Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) South Atlantic $ 297,927 29.1 % $ 301,206 29.0 % Pacific 157,713 15.4 162,824 15.7 West North Central 127,499 12.5 126,320 12.1 East North Central 121,913 11.9 117,768 11.3 Mountain 90,475 8.8 101,335 9.7 West South Central 85,003 8.3 85,919 8.3 East South Central 75,442 7.4 76,098 7.3 Middle Atlantic 34,559 3.4 34,843 3.4 New England 33,124 3.2 33,516 3.2 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 %
Mortgage Loans by loan to value ratio [Table Text Block]	Mortgage Loans by Loan-to-Value Ratio March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Loan-to-Value Ratio Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) 0% - 50% $ 404,912 39.6 % $ 409,089 39.3 % 51% - 60% 304,608 29.8 314,038 30.2 61% - 70% 270,610 26.4 264,973 25.5 71% - 80% 37,186 3.6 37,418 3.6 81% - 90% 6,339 0.6 14,311 1.4 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 %
Mortgage loans by year of origination [Table Text Block]	Mortgage Loans by Year of Origination March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Year of Origination Carrying Value Percent of Total Carrying Value Percent of Total (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 5,650 0.6 % $ — — % 2018 136,693 13.4 137,519 13.2 2017 205,744 20.1 207,540 20.0 2016 148,175 14.4 149,437 14.4 2015 127,800 12.5 128,877 12.4 2014 & prior 399,593 39.0 416,456 40.0 Total $ 1,023,655 100.0 % $ 1,039,829 100.0 %
Impaired Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	Impaired Mortgage Loans March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Unpaid principal balance $ 4,706 $ 18,622 Less: Related allowance (329 ) (3,107 ) Carrying value of impaired mortgage loans $ 4,377 $ 15,515
Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	Allowance on Mortgage Loans Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 3,107 $ 497 Recoveries (2,778 ) (50 ) Balance at end of period $ 329 $ 447
Affordable Housing Program [Text Block]	LIHTC Investment Commitments by Year March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 505 2020 165 2021-2025 831 Total $ 1,501
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]	VIE Investments by Category March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Carrying Value Maximum Exposure to Loss Carrying Value Maximum Exposure to Loss (Dollars in thousands) LIHTC investments $ 51,156 $ 52,657 $ 54,037 $ 55,597 Investment companies 44,164 80,590 40,236 79,578 Real estate limited partnerships 8,489 15,344 8,945 15,673 Other 494 504 483 493 Total $ 104,303 $ 149,095 $ 103,701 $ 151,341
Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]	Derivatives Instruments by Type March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Freestanding derivatives: Call options (reported in other investments) $ 15,741 $ 4,745 Embedded derivatives: Modified coinsurance (reported in reinsurance recoverable) 110 157 Interest-only security (reported in fixed maturities) 786 855 Total assets $ 16,637 $ 5,757 Liabilities Embedded derivatives: Indexed products (reported in liability for future policy benefits) $ 51,891 $ 40,028 Modified coinsurance (reported in other liabilities) 99 7,426 Total liabilities $ 51,990 $ 47,454 Derivative Income (Loss) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Change in fair value of free standing derivatives: Call options $ 8,685 $ (1,152 ) Change in fair value of embedded derivatives: Modified coinsurance 633 (943 ) Interest-only security 47 (35 ) Indexed products (9,336 ) 2,664 Total income from derivatives $ 29 $ 534

Fair Values (Tables)

Fair Values (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Fair Values [Abstract]
Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on Recurring Basis by hierarchy levels [Table Text Block]	Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels March 31, 2019 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Fixed maturities: Corporate securities $ — $ 3,405,623 $ 26,953 $ 3,432,576 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 618,749 — 618,749 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 908,579 8,125 916,704 Other asset-backed securities — 687,167 7,649 694,816 United States Government and agencies 7,894 12,819 — 20,713 States and political subdivisions — 1,548,026 — 1,548,026 Total fixed maturities 7,894 7,180,963 42,727 7,231,584 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 80,980 7,129 88,109 Common stocks (1) 16,716 — — 16,716 Other investments — 15,741 — 15,741 Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 17,572 — — 17,572 Reinsurance recoverable — 109 — 109 Assets held in separate accounts 614,121 — — 614,121 Total assets $ 656,303 $ 7,277,793 $ 49,856 $ 7,983,952 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ — $ — $ 51,891 $ 51,891 Other liabilities — 99 — 99 Total liabilities $ — $ 99 $ 51,891 $ 51,990 Valuation of our Financial Instruments Measured on a Recurring Basis by Hierarchy Levels December 31, 2018 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Fixed maturities: Corporate securities $ — $ 3,257,874 $ 22,011 $ 3,279,885 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 606,860 — 606,860 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 810,626 67,940 878,566 Other asset-backed securities — 703,969 3,601 707,570 United States Government and agencies 7,917 12,618 — 20,535 States and political subdivisions — 1,539,629 — 1,539,629 Total fixed maturities 7,917 6,931,576 93,552 7,033,045 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 77,433 6,862 84,295 Common stocks (1) 5,261 — — 5,261 Other investments — 4,745 — 4,745 Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 34,748 — — 34,748 Reinsurance recoverable — 157 — 157 Assets held in separate accounts 561,281 — — 561,281 Total assets $ 609,207 $ 7,013,911 $ 100,414 $ 7,723,532 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ — $ — $ 40,028 $ 40,028 Other liabilities — 780 — 780 Total liabilities $ — $ 780 $ 40,028 $ 40,808
Level 3 fixed maturities on Measurement on Recurring Basis by Valuation Technique [Table Text Block]	Level 3 Assets by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Third-party vendors Priced Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Corporate securities $ 7,782 $ 19,171 $ 26,953 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 8,125 — 8,125 Other asset-backed securities 5,000 2,649 7,649 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 7,129 7,129 Total assets $ 20,907 $ 28,949 $ 49,856 Percent of total 41.9 % 58.1 % 100.0 % Level 3 Assets by Valuation Source - Recurring Basis December 31, 2018 Third-party vendors Priced internally Fair Value (Dollars in thousands) Corporate securities $ 1,940 $ 20,071 $ 22,011 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 67,940 — 67,940 Other asset-backed securities — 3,601 3,601 Non-redeemable preferred stocks — 6,862 6,862 Total assets $ 69,880 $ 30,534 $ 100,414 Percent of total 69.6 % 30.4 % 100.0 %
Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurement Inputs [Text Block]	Quantitative Information about Level 3 Fair Value Measurements - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Average) (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 18,460 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.06% - 5.95% (3.77%) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 8,125 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.30% - 2.25% (1.90%) Non-redeemable preferred stocks 7,129 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 3.40% (3.40%) Total assets $ 33,714 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 51,891 Discounted cash flow Credit risk Risk margin 0.35% - 1.70% (1.05%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%) December 31, 2018 Fair Value Valuation Technique Unobservable Input Range (Weighted Average) (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 19,178 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.23% - 7.00% (4.01%) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 55,866 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.45% - 3.55% (2.58%) Non-redeemable preferred stocks 6,862 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 4.36% (4.36%) Total assets $ 81,906 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 40,028 Discounted cash flow Credit risk Risk margin 0.55% - 1.80% (1.05%) 0.15% - 0.40% (0.25%)
Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value [Table Text Block]	Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value - Recurring Basis March 31, 2019 Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net Balance, December 31, 2018 Purchases Disposals Included in net income Included in other compre-hensive income Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) Amort-ization included in net income Balance, March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 22,011 $ 6,000 $ (1,262 ) $ — $ 212 $ — $ — $ (8 ) $ 26,953 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 67,940 — (92 ) — 195 — (59,918 ) — 8,125 Other asset-backed securities 3,601 5,000 (83 ) — (869 ) — — — 7,649 Non-redeemable preferred stocks 6,862 — — — 267 — — — 7,129 Total assets $ 100,414 $ 11,000 $ (1,437 ) $ — $ (195 ) $ — $ (59,918 ) $ (8 ) $ 49,856 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 40,028 $ 3,479 $ (1,169 ) $ 9,553 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 51,891 March 31, 2018 Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net Balance, December 31, 2017 Purchases Disposals Included in net income Included in other compre-hensive income Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (1) Amort-ization included in net income Balance, March 31, 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Assets Corporate securities $ 33,600 $ — $ (1,091 ) $ — $ 30 $ — $ (2,000 ) $ (8 ) $ 30,531 Residential mortgage-backed securities 9,124 — — — — — (9,124 ) — — Commercial mortgage-backed securities 85,701 21,875 (227 ) — (1,838 ) — (13,477 ) (22 ) 92,012 Other asset-backed securities 53,480 8,250 (2,025 ) — 13 — (47,080 ) — 12,638 Non-redeemable preferred stocks 7,407 — — — (82 ) — — — 7,325 Total assets $ 189,312 $ 30,125 $ (3,343 ) $ — $ (1,877 ) $ — $ (71,681 ) $ (30 ) $ 142,506 Liabilities Future policy benefits - indexed product embedded derivatives $ 27,774 $ 2,254 $ (942 ) $ (366 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 28,720 (1) 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. The fair values of newly issued securities often require additional estimation until a market is created, which is generally within a few months after issuance. Once a market is created, as was the case for the majority of the security transfers out of the Level 3 category above, Level 2 valuation sources become available. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the periods presented above.
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Value [Table Text Block]	Valuation of our Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value by Hierarchy Levels March 31, 2019 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value Carrying Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 1,044,026 $ 1,044,026 $ 1,023,655 Policy loans — — 244,677 244,677 199,230 Other investments — — 29,958 29,958 28,922 Total assets $ — $ — $ 1,318,661 $ 1,318,661 $ 1,251,807 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ — $ — $ 4,101,370 $ 4,101,370 $ 4,215,476 Supplementary contracts without life contingencies — — 305,768 305,768 303,771 Advance premiums and other deposits — — 256,261 256,261 256,261 Short-term debt — — 4,000 4,000 4,000 Long-term debt — — 71,004 71,004 97,000 Liabilities related to separate accounts — — 612,681 612,681 614,121 Total liabilities $ — $ — $ 5,351,084 $ 5,351,084 $ 5,490,629 December 31, 2018 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value Carrying Value (Dollars in thousands) Assets Mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 1,045,497 $ 1,045,497 $ 1,039,829 Policy loans — — 237,496 237,496 197,366 Other investments — — 30,087 30,087 29,020 Total assets $ — $ — $ 1,313,080 $ 1,313,080 $ 1,266,215 Liabilities Future policy benefits $ — $ — $ 3,981,947 $ 3,981,947 $ 4,217,904 Supplementary contracts without life contingencies — — 298,869 298,869 303,627 Advance premiums and other deposits — — 252,318 252,318 252,318 Long-term debt — — 65,999 65,999 97,000 Liabilities related to separate accounts — — 559,799 559,799 561,281 Total liabilities $ — $ — $ 5,158,932 $ 5,158,932 $ 5,432,130

Defined Benefit Plan (Tables)

Defined Benefit Plan (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]	Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost for FBL and Affiliates Combined - Multiemployer Plan Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Service cost $ 1,137 $ 1,493 Interest cost 3,318 3,411 Expected return on assets (4,707 ) (5,562 ) Amortization of prior service cost — 11 Amortization of actuarial loss 2,229 3,127 Net periodic pension cost $ 1,977 $ 2,480 FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs $ 633 $ 760 Components of Net Periodic Pension Cost for FBL and Affiliates Combined - Other Plans Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Service cost $ 117 $ 135 Interest cost 248 240 Amortization of actuarial loss 266 338 Net periodic pension cost $ 631 $ 713 FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs $ 362 $ 418

Commitments and Contingencies O

Commitments and Contingencies Operating Leases (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block]	Lease commitments by year March 31, 2019 (Dollars in thousands) 2019 $ 1,920 2020 2,573 2021 2,574 2022 222 2023 55 Thereafter 24 Total minimum lease payments 7,368 Less: Interest (526 ) Present value of lease liabilities $ 6,842

Stockholders Equity (Tables)

Stockholders Equity (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block]	Dividends Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Class A and B common stock: Cash dividends per common share $ 0.48 $ 0.46 Special cash dividend per common share 1.50 1.50 Total common stock dividends per share $ 1.98 $ 1.96 Series B preferred stock dividends per share $ 0.0075 $ 0.0075 Special cash dividends paid to our Class A and Class B common shareholders totaled $37.0 million in the first quarter of 2019 and $37.3 million in the first quarter of 2018. Reconciliation of Outstanding Common Stock Class A Class B Total Shares Dollars Shares Dollars Shares Dollars (Dollars in thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2018 24,919,113 $ 153,589 11,413 $ 72 24,930,526 $ 153,661 Stock-based compensation 6,762 218 — — 6,762 218 Purchase of common stock (99,312 ) (612 ) — — (99,312 ) (612 ) Outstanding at March 31, 2018 24,826,563 $ 153,195 11,413 $ 72 24,837,976 $ 153,267 Outstanding at January 1, 2019 24,707,402 $ 152,652 11,413 $ 72 24,718,815 $ 152,724 Stock-based compensation — 202 — — — 202 Purchase of common stock (66,475 ) (410 ) — — (66,475 ) (410 ) Outstanding at March 31, 2019 24,640,927 $ 152,444 11,413 $ 72 24,652,340 $ 152,516
Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax and Other Offsets Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Balance at January 1, 2018 $ 295,169 $ 537 $ (10,723 ) $ 284,983 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle related to net unrealized gains on equity securities (2) (5,869 ) — — (5,869 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (95,937 ) 2,808 — (87,260 ) Reclassification adjustments (25 ) — 262 237 Balance at March 31, 2018 $ 193,338 $ 3,345 $ (10,461 ) $ 186,222 Balance at January 1, 2019 $ 96,921 $ 3,133 $ (8,736 ) $ 91,318 Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 99,871 29 — 99,900 Reclassification adjustments (2,260 ) — 208 (2,052 ) Balance at March 31, 2019 $ 194,532 $ 3,162 $ (8,528 ) $ 189,166 (1) Includes the impact of taxes, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities. See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements for further information. (2)
Disclosure of Reclassification Amount [Text Block]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustments Three months ended March 31, 2019 Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Realized capital gains on sales of fixed maturities $ (2,994 ) $ — $ — $ (2,994 ) Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities 133 — — 133 Other expenses - change in unrecognized postretirement items: Net actuarial loss — — 263 263 Reclassifications before income taxes (2,861 ) — 263 (2,598 ) Income taxes 601 — (55 ) 546 Reclassification adjustments $ (2,260 ) $ — $ 208 $ (2,052 ) Three months ended March 31, 2018 Unrealized Net Investment Gains (Losses) on Available For Sale Securities (1) Accumulated Non-Credit Impairment Losses (1) Underfunded Status of Postretirement Benefit Plans Total (Dollars in thousands) Realized capital gains on sales of fixed maturities $ (83 ) $ — $ — $ (83 ) Adjustments for assumed changes in deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserve and policyholder liabilities 51 — — 51 Other expenses - change in unrecognized postretirement items: Net actuarial loss — — 331 331 Reclassifications before income taxes (32 ) — 331 299 Income taxes 7 — (69 ) (62 ) Reclassification adjustments $ (25 ) $ — $ 262 $ 237 (1)

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Numerator: Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. $ 34,043 $ 23,565 Less: Dividends on Series B preferred stock 38 38 Income available to common stockholders $ 34,005 $ 23,527 Denominator: Weighted average shares - basic 24,765,277 25,003,691 Effect of dilutive securities - stock-based compensation 11,176 15,818 Weighted average shares - diluted 24,776,453 25,019,509 Earnings per common share $ 1.37 $ 0.94 Earnings per common share - assuming dilution $ 1.37 $ 0.94

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019
Segment Information [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]	Financial Information Concerning our Operating Segments Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Pre-tax adjusted operating income: Annuity $ 15,662 $ 16,582 Life Insurance 10,092 10,897 Corporate and Other 4,319 3,533 Total pre-tax adjusted operating income 30,073 31,012 Adjustments to pre-tax adjusted operating income: Net realized gains/losses on investments (1) 9,152 (2,814 ) Change in fair value of derivatives (1) 1,153 (644 ) Pre-tax net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. 40,378 27,554 Income tax expense (6,276 ) (3,813 ) Tax on equity income (59 ) (176 ) Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc. $ 34,043 $ 23,565 Adjusted operating revenues: Annuity $ 52,682 $ 57,435 Life Insurance 107,258 107,727 Corporate and Other 23,128 24,111 183,068 189,273 Net realized gains/losses on investments (1) 9,289 (2,971 ) Change in fair value of derivatives (1) 11,199 (3,872 ) Consolidated revenues $ 203,556 $ 182,430 (1)
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	Equity Income by Operating Segment Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Pre-tax equity income: Life Insurance $ 370 $ 695 Corporate and Other (91 ) 141 279 836 Income taxes (59 ) (176 ) Equity income, net of related income taxes $ 220 $ 660
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP measures [Table Text Block]	Reconciliation of Traditional Life Insurance Premiums, Net of Reinsurance Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Traditional and universal life insurance premiums collected $ 78,001 $ 76,263 Premiums collected on interest sensitive products (28,379 ) (26,582 ) Traditional life insurance premiums collected 49,622 49,681 Change in due premiums and other (230 ) (184 ) Traditional life insurance premiums as included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations $ 49,392 $ 49,497 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 Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (Dollars in thousands) Annuity Surrender charges and other $ 1,567 $ 1,202 Life Insurance Administration charges 4,667 4,046 Cost of insurance charges 12,633 12,537 Surrender charges 621 681 Amortization of policy initiation fees 1,067 795 Total 18,988 18,059 Corporate and Other Administration charges $ 1,236 $ 1,316 Cost of insurance charges 7,202 7,140 Surrender charges 24 23 Separate account charges 1,936 2,145 Amortization of policy initiation fees 7 397 Total 10,405 11,021 Impact of net realized gains/losses on investments and change in fair value of derivatives on amortization of unearned revenue reserves 306 (184 ) Interest sensitive product charges as included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations $ 31,266 $ 30,098

Significant Accounting Polici_3

Significant Accounting Policies Recent accounting pronouncements (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2019	Jan. 01, 2018
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset			$ 7,200
Operating Lease, Liability	$ 6,842		$ 7,200
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax		$ 0
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax	$ 595
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Basic Earnings Per Share	$ 0.01
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Diluted Earnings Per Share	$ 0.01
Retained Earnings | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets				$ 5,900
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax		$ 5,869
Retained Earnings | Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax	$ 595

Investment Operations Available

Investment Operations Available-for-sale Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis		$ 6,873,217	$ 6,856,277
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		418,833	305,709
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(60,466)	(128,941)
Available-for-sale Securities		7,231,584	7,033,045
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments	[1]	4,003	3,966
Corporate
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		3,259,853	3,231,846
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		213,704	138,972
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(40,981)	(90,933)
Available-for-sale Securities		3,432,576	3,279,885
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		0	0
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		584,767	584,133
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		36,715	29,969
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(2,733)	(7,242)
Available-for-sale Securities		618,749	606,860
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		3,035	2,823
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		896,528	873,672
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		31,393	24,284
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(11,217)	(19,390)
Available-for-sale Securities		916,704	878,566
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		0	0
Other asset backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		680,507	697,332
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		17,781	15,567
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(3,472)	(5,329)
Available-for-sale Securities		694,816	707,570
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		968	1,143
United States Government and agencies
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		19,555	19,673
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		1,203	996
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(45)	(134)
Available-for-sale Securities		20,713	20,535
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		0	0
State, municipal and other government [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Amortized Cost		1,432,007	1,449,621
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax		118,037	95,921
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax		(2,018)	(5,913)
Available-for-sale Securities		1,548,026	1,539,629
Non-credit losses on other-than-temporary impairments		$ 0	$ 0
[1]	Non-credit losses subsequent to the initial impairment measurement date on other-than-temporary impairment (OTTI) losses are included in the gross unrealized gains and gross unrealized losses columns above. The non-credit loss component of OTTI losses for residential mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018

Investment Operations Availab_2

Investment Operations Available-for-sale Fixed Maturities by Maturity Date (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Amortized Cost, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less, amortized cost basis	$ 106,619
Due after one year through five years, amortized cost basis	534,193
Due after five years through ten years, amortized cost basis	697,348
Due after ten years, amortized cost basis	3,373,255
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Maturity, Allocated and Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost	4,711,415
Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed, amortized cost basis	2,161,802
Total fixed maturities, amortized cost basis	6,873,217	$ 6,856,277
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale, Fair Value, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less, fair value	107,635
Due after one year through five years, fair value	555,588
Due after five years through ten years, fair value	729,149
Due after ten years, fair value	3,608,943
Total fixed maturities with maturity date, fair value	5,001,315
Mortgage-backed and other asset-backed, fair value	2,230,269
Total fixed maturities, fair value	$ 7,231,584	$ 7,033,045

Investment Operations Net Unrea

Investment Operations Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investments in AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Assumed changes in amortization of DAC	$ (96,710)	$ (46,732)
Assumed changes in amortization pattern of VIIF	(10,469)	(6,878)
Assumed changes in amortization pattern of URR	11,297	5,134
Assumed change in policyholder liability	(12,240)	(1,642)
Provision for deferred income taxes	(52,551)	(26,596)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	189,166	91,318
Debt Securities [Member]
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Unrealized appreciation on fixed maturities available for sale	358,367	176,768
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Net Unrealized Gains Losses [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	$ 197,694	$ 100,054

Investment Operations Unrealize

Investment Operations Unrealized Losses by Length of Time (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)issuerssecurities	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)issuerssecurities
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions | securities	412	709
Available For Sale Securities In Unrealized Loss Positions Qualitative Disclosure Number Of Issuers | issuers	271	465
Corporate Securities
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 211,512	$ 1,035,176
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(7,452)	(60,299)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	445,481	207,381
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(33,529)	(30,634)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	656,993	1,242,557
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (40,981)	$ (90,933)
percent of total	67.80%	70.50%
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 16,335	$ 191,365
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(590)	(4,482)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	89,982	74,113
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(2,143)	(2,760)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	106,317	265,478
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (2,733)	$ (7,242)
percent of total	4.50%	5.60%
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 41,535	$ 302,159
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(673)	(9,947)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	294,545	148,855
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(10,544)	(9,443)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	336,080	451,014
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (11,217)	$ (19,390)
percent of total	18.60%	15.00%
Other asset backed securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 142,050	$ 250,119
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(2,218)	(3,397)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	170,790	149,997
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(1,254)	(1,932)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	312,840	400,116
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (3,472)	$ (5,329)
percent of total	5.70%	4.10%
United States Government and agencies
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 0	$ 0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	3,699	6,474
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(45)	(134)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	3,699	6,474
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (45)	$ (134)
percent of total	0.10%	0.10%
State, municipal and other government [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 7,872	$ 144,681
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(571)	(3,885)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	23,357	16,943
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(1,447)	(2,028)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	31,229	161,624
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (2,018)	$ (5,913)
percent of total	3.30%	4.70%
Debt Securities [Member]
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$ 419,304	$ 1,923,500
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	(11,504)	(82,010)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,027,854	603,763
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	(48,962)	(46,931)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,447,158	2,527,263
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$ (60,466)	$ (128,941)
percent of total	100.00%	100.00%

Investment Operations Credit lo

Investment Operations Credit loss component of Other-than-temporary Impairments on Fixed Maturities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ (5,963)	$ (12,392)
Reductions due to securities sold	230	271
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings, Reductions, Change in Status	0	2,529
Balance at end of period	$ (5,733)	$ (9,592)

Investment Operations Realized

Investment Operations Realized Gains (Losses) - Recorded in Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Financial Assets	$ (4)	$ (13)
Realized Gains (Loss) on sales of investments	5,768	70
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	10,157	(1,747)
Net impairment loss recognized in earnings	(869)	(1,040)
Realized gains (losses) on investments recorded in income	9,288	(3,042)
Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities	6,700	5,200
Cost-method Investments [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net	2,778	0
Debt Securities [Member] | Categories of Investments, Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
Gross gains - fixed maturities - available for sale	2,994	83
Equity Securities [Member] | Categories of Investments, Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	4,419	(1,817)
Realized Gain (Loss) on sales of Equity Securities	(30)	0
Other credit-related [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
Net impairment loss recognized in earnings	(869)	(1,040)
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Categories of Investments, Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Net Income	$ 4,389	$ (1,817)

Investment Operations Mortgage

Investment Operations Mortgage Loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Contractual Obligation	$ 9,500
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 1,023,655	$ 1,039,829
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	100.00%	100.00%
Year of origination 2019 [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 5,650
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	0.60%
Year of origination 2018 [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 136,693	$ 137,519
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	13.40%	13.20%
Year of origination 2017 [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 205,744	$ 207,540
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	20.10%	20.00%
Year of origination 2016 [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 148,175	$ 149,437
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	14.40%	14.40%
Year of origination 2015 [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 127,800	$ 128,877
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	12.50%	12.40%
Year of origination prior [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 399,593	$ 416,456
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	39.00%	40.00%
0% to 50% loan to value [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 404,912	$ 409,089
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	39.60%	39.30%
51% to 60% loan-to-value [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 304,608	$ 314,038
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	29.80%	30.20%
61% to 70% loan-to-value [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 270,610	$ 264,973
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	26.40%	25.50%
71% to 80% loan-to-value [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 37,186	$ 37,418
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	3.60%	3.60%
81% to 90% loan to value [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 6,339	$ 14,311
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	0.60%	1.40%
South Atlantic [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 297,927	$ 301,206
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	29.10%	29.00%
Pacific [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 157,713	$ 162,824
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	15.40%	15.70%
West North Central [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 127,499	$ 126,320
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	12.50%	12.10%
East North Central [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 121,913	$ 117,768
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	11.90%	11.30%
Mountain [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 90,475	$ 101,335
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	8.80%	9.70%
West South Central [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 85,003	$ 85,919
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	8.30%	8.30%
East South Central [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 75,442	$ 76,098
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	7.40%	7.30%
Middle Atlantic [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 34,559	$ 34,843
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	3.40%	3.40%
New England [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 33,124	$ 33,516
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	3.20%	3.20%
Office [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 438,068	$ 443,048
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	42.80%	42.60%
Retail [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 312,276	$ 310,625
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	30.50%	29.90%
Industrial [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 198,973	$ 211,138
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	19.40%	20.30%
Other property type [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 74,338	$ 75,018
Percentage of Mortgage Loans	7.30%	7.20%

Investment Operations Impaired

Investment Operations Impaired mortgage loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	$ 4,706	$ 18,622
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	(329)	(3,107)	$ (447)	$ (497)
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	$ 4,377	$ 15,515

Investment Operations Allowance

Investment Operations Allowance on Mortgage Loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 3,107	$ 497
Charge offs (Recoveries)	(2,778)	(50)
Balance at end of period	$ 329	$ 447

Investment Operations Affordabl

Investment Operations Affordable Housing Program (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$ 6,276	$ 3,813
Other Commitment	44,800
Qualified Affordable Housing Project Investments, Commitment	1,501
Affordable Housing Tax Credit Investments
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(900)	$ (900)
Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months	505
Other Commitment, Due in Second Year	165
Other Commitment, Due in Third Year	$ 831

Investment Operations Variable

Investment Operations Variable Interest Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	$ 104,303	$ 103,701
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	149,095	151,341
Low income housing tax credits [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	51,156	54,037
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	52,657	55,597
Investment companies [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	44,164	40,236
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	80,590	79,578
Real estate limited partnerships [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	8,489	8,945
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	15,344	15,673
Other VIE investments [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets	494	483
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	$ 504	$ 493

Investment Operations Derivativ

Investment Operations Derivative instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative assets	$ 16,637		$ 5,757
Derivative Liabilities	51,990		47,454
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	29	$ 534
Fair Value Disclosure, Off-balance Sheet Risks, Amount, Asset	11,900
Net Derivative Exposure	4,000
Investment Income [Member] | Equity Option [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	8,685	(1,152)
Investment Income [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments - MODCO [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	633	(943)
Investment Income [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments - Interest only Security [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	47	(35)
Insurance sensitive product charges [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	(9,336)	$ 2,664
Other Investments [Member] | Equity Option [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative assets	15,741		4,745
Reinsurance Recoverable Including Reinsurance Premium Paid [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Assumed	110		157
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative assets	786		855
Contract Holder Funds [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liabilities	51,891		40,028
Other Liabilities [Member] | Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liabilities	$ 99		$ 7,426

Fair Values Valuation of Financ

Fair Values Valuation of Financial Instruments by Hierarchy Levels (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other Investments		$ 44,663	$ 33,765
Available-for-sale Securities		7,231,584	7,033,045
Other investments		16,637	5,757
Assets held in separate accounts		614,121	561,281
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other investments		15,741	4,745
Cash and short-term investments		17,572	34,748
Reinsurance recoverable		109	157
Assets held in separate accounts		614,121	561,281
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure		7,983,952	7,723,532
Other liabilities		99	780
Total liabilities		51,990	40,808
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other investments		0	0
Cash and short-term investments		17,572	34,748
Reinsurance recoverable		0	0
Assets held in separate accounts		614,121	561,281
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure		656,303	609,207
Future policy benefits - index product embedded derivatives		0	0
Other liabilities		0	0
Total liabilities		0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other investments		15,741	4,745
Cash and short-term investments		0	0
Reinsurance recoverable		109	157
Assets held in separate accounts		0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure		7,277,793	7,013,911
Future policy benefits - index product embedded derivatives		0	0
Other liabilities		99	780
Total liabilities		99	780
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other investments		0	0
Cash and short-term investments		0	0
Reinsurance recoverable		0	0
Assets held in separate accounts		0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure		49,856	100,414
Other liabilities		0	0
Total liabilities		51,891	40,028
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		49,856	100,414
Debt Securities [Member] | 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		7,231,584	7,033,045
Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		7,894	7,917
Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		7,180,963	6,931,576
Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		42,727	93,552
Corporate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		3,432,576	3,279,885
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		3,432,576	3,279,885
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [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 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		3,405,623	3,257,874
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		26,953	22,011
Corporate | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		26,953	22,011
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		618,749	606,860
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member] | 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		618,749	606,860
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		0	0
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		618,749	606,860
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		0	0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		916,704	878,566
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | 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		916,704	878,566
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		0	0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		908,579	810,626
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		8,125	67,940
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		8,125	67,940
Other asset backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		694,816	707,570
Other asset backed securities [Member] | 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		694,816	707,570
Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		0	0
Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		687,167	703,969
Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Mortgage-backed securities available-for-sale		7,649	3,601
Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		7,649	3,601
United States Government and agencies
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		20,713	20,535
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		20,713	20,535
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		7,894	7,917
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		12,819	12,618
United States Government and agencies | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
State, municipal and other government [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		1,548,026	1,539,629
State, municipal and other government [Member] | 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		1,548,026	1,539,629
State, municipal and other government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
State, municipal and other government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		1,548,026	1,539,629
State, municipal and other government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | 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		88,109	84,295
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		80,980	77,433
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		7,129	6,862
Common Stock | 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]	16,716	5,261
Common Stock | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		16,716	5,261
Common Stock | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
Common Stock | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		0	0
Private Equity Funds, US [Member] | Common Stock
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unfunded Commitments			6,400
Private Equity Funds, US [Member] | Common Stock | Fair Value Measured at Net Asset Value Per Share [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments Net Asset Value		3,700	3,300
Index Product Embedded Derivatives | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Future policy benefits - index product embedded derivatives		51,891	40,028
Index Product Embedded Derivatives | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Future policy benefits - index product embedded derivatives		$ 51,891	$ 40,028
[1]	A private equity fund with a fair value estimate of $3.7 million at March 31, 2019 and $3.3 million at December 31, 2018 using net asset value per share as a practical expedient, has not been classified in the fair value hierarchy above in accordance with fair value reporting guidance. This fund invests in senior secured middle market loans and had unfunded commitments totaling $6.4 million at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018

Fair Values Level 3 Fixed Matur

Fair Values Level 3 Fixed Maturitiies on a Recurring Basis by Valuation Source (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 7,231,584	$ 7,033,045
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	49,856	100,414
Corporate Securities
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 3,432,576	$ 3,279,885
percent of total	67.80%	70.50%
Corporate Securities | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 26,953	$ 22,011
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 916,704	$ 878,566
percent of total	18.60%	15.00%
Other asset backed securities [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 694,816	$ 707,570
percent of total	5.70%	4.10%
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 7,129	$ 6,862
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	7,983,952	7,723,532
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 49,856	$ 100,414
percent of total	100.00%	100.00%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Corporate Securities | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 3,432,576	$ 3,279,885
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Corporate Securities | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	26,953	22,011
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	8,125	67,940
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	7,649	3,601
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Collateralized Debt Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	7,129	6,862
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	88,109	84,295
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party vendors [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 20,907	$ 69,880
percent of total	41.90%	69.60%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party vendors [Member] | Corporate Securities | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 7,782	$ 1,940
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party vendors [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	8,125	67,940
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party vendors [Member] | Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	5,000	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Third-party vendors [Member] | Collateralized Debt Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Priced internally [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 28,949	$ 30,534
percent of total	58.10%	30.40%
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Priced internally [Member] | Corporate Securities | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 19,171	$ 20,071
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Priced internally [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Priced internally [Member] | Other asset backed securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	2,649	3,601
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Priced internally [Member] | Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 7,129	$ 6,862

Fair Values Quantitative Inform

Fair Values Quantitative Information about Unobservable Measurement Inputs (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] - Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 49,856	$ 100,414
Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Future policy benefits - index product embedded derivatives	51,891	40,028
Corporate Securities
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	18,460	19,178
Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	8,125	55,866
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	7,129	6,862
Asset fair value by technique [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 33,714	$ 81,906
Minimum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0035	0.0055
Minimum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Corporate Securities
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0106	0.0123
Minimum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.013	0.0145
Minimum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.034	0.0436
Minimum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Risk Margin [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0015	0.0015
Maximum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.017	0.018
Maximum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Corporate Securities
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0595	0.07
Maximum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0225	0.0355
Maximum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.034	0.0436
Maximum [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Risk Margin [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.004	0.004
Weighted Average [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0105	0.0105
Weighted Average [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Corporate Securities
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0377	0.0401
Weighted Average [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Commercial mortgage-backed
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.019	0.0258
Weighted Average [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Credit Spread [Member] | Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.034	0.0436
Weighted Average [Member] | Valuation Technique, Discounted Cash Flow [Member] | Measurement Input, Risk Margin [Member] | Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Input range and weighted average	0.0025	0.0025

Fair Values Level 3 Financial I

Fair Values Level 3 Financial Instruments Changes in Fair Value (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] - Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period		$ 100,414	$ 189,312
Purchases		11,000	30,125
Disposals		(1,437)	(3,343)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		(195)	1,877
Transfers Into Level 3	[1]	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	[1]	(59,918)	(71,681)
Amortization included in net income		(8)	(30)
Asset Balance, end of period		49,856	142,506
Corporate Securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period		22,011	33,600
Purchases		6,000	0
Disposals		(1,262)	(1,091)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		212	(30)
Transfers Into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		0	(2,000)
Amortization included in net income		(8)	(8)
Asset Balance, end of period		26,953	30,531
Residential mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period			9,124
Purchases			0
Disposals			0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income			0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income			0
Transfers Into Level 3			0
Transfers out of Level 3			(9,124)
Amortization included in net income			0
Asset Balance, end of period			0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period		67,940	85,701
Purchases		0	21,875
Disposals		(92)	(227)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		195	1,838
Transfers Into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		(59,918)	(13,477)
Amortization included in net income		0	(22)
Asset Balance, end of period		8,125	92,012
Other asset backed securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period		3,601	53,480
Purchases		5,000	8,250
Disposals		(83)	(2,025)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		(869)	(13)
Transfers Into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		0	(47,080)
Amortization included in net income		0	0
Asset Balance, end of period		7,649	12,638
Non-redeemable preferred stock [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Asset Balance, beginning of period		6,862	7,407
Purchases		0	0
Disposals		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		0	0
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		267	(82)
Transfers Into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		0	0
Amortization included in net income		0	0
Asset Balance, end of period		7,129	7,325
Index Product Embedded Derivatives
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Liability balance, beginning of period		40,028	27,774
Purchases		3,479	2,254
Settlements		(1,169)	(942)
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in net income		9,553	366
Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net, included in other comprehensive income		0	0
Transfers Into Level 3	[1]	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	[1]	0	0
Liability balance, end of period		$ 51,891	$ 28,720
[1]	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. The fair values of newly issued securities often require additional estimation until a market is created, which is generally within a few months after issuance. Once a market is created, as was the case for the majority of the security transfers out of the Level 3 category above, Level 2 valuation sources become available. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the periods presented above.

Fair Values Valuation of Fina_2

Fair Values Valuation of Financial Instruments not reported at fair value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	$ 1,023,655	$ 1,039,829
Policy loans	199,230	197,366
Other investments	44,663	33,765
Other investments	16,637	5,757
Deposit Contracts, Liabilities	303,771	303,627
Liabilities related to separate accounts	614,121	561,281
Short-term Debt	4,000	0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	1,044,026	1,045,497
Policy loans	244,677	237,496
Other investments	29,958	30,087
Total assets	1,318,661	1,313,080
Future policy benefits	4,101,370	3,981,947
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	305,768	298,869
Advance premiums and other deposits	256,261	252,318
Long-term debt	71,004	65,999
Liabilities related to separate accounts	612,681	559,799
Total liabilities	5,351,084	5,158,932
Short term debt, fair value disclosure	4,000
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	1,023,655	1,039,829
Policy loans	199,230	197,366
Other investments	28,922	29,020
Total assets	1,251,807	1,266,215
Future policy benefits	4,215,476	4,217,904
Deposit Contracts, Liabilities	303,771	303,627
Advance premiums and other deposits	256,261	252,318
Long-term debt	97,000	97,000
Liabilities related to separate accounts		561,281
Total liabilities	5,490,629	5,432,130
Short-term Debt	4,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Other investments	0	0
Future policy benefits	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Other investments	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Future policy benefits	0	0
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	0	0
Advance premiums and other deposits	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Short term debt, fair value disclosure	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Other investments	15,741	4,745
Future policy benefits	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans	0	0
Other investments	0	0
Total assets	0	0
Future policy benefits	0	0
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	0	0
Advance premiums and other deposits	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Liabilities related to separate accounts	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0
Short term debt, fair value disclosure	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Other investments	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments Not Reported at Fair Value [Line Items]
Mortgage loans	1,044,026	1,045,497
Policy loans	244,677	237,496
Other investments	29,958	30,087
Total assets	1,318,661	1,313,080
Future policy benefits	4,101,370	3,981,947
Supplemental contracts without life contingencies, fair value disclosure	305,768	298,869
Advance premiums and other deposits	256,261	252,318
Long-term debt	71,004	65,999
Liabilities related to separate accounts	612,681	559,799
Total liabilities	5,351,084	$ 5,158,932
Short term debt, fair value disclosure	$ 4,000

Defined Benefit Plan (Details)

Defined Benefit Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 1,137	$ 1,493
Interest cost	3,318	3,411
Expected return on assets	(4,707)	(5,562)
Amortization of prior service cost	0	11
Amortization of actuarial loss	2,229	3,127
Net periodic pension cost	1,977	2,480
FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs	633	760
Other Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	117	135
Interest cost	248	240
Amortization of actuarial loss	266	338
Net periodic pension cost	631	713
FBL Financial Group, Inc. share of net periodic pension costs	$ 362	$ 418

Credit Arrangements (Details)

Credit Arrangements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt	$ 4,000	$ 0
Federal Home Loan Bank Advances [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt	$ 4,000
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	2.62%

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Lease Commitments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019
Operating Leases [Line Items]
Lessee, Operating Lease, at Carrying Value	$ 6,800	$ 7,200
Lessee, Operating Lease, Discount Rate	4.50%
Operating Lease, Expense	$ 1,300
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months	1,920
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two	2,573
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three	2,574
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four	222
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five	55
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five	24
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due	7,368
Lessee, Operating Lease, Future Value of Interest Expense	(526)
Operating Lease, Liability	6,842	7,200
Majority Shareholder [Member]
Operating Leases [Line Items]
Lessee, Operating Lease, at Carrying Value	$ 5,600	$ 6,100

Stockholders Equity Dividends (

Stockholders Equity Dividends (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash dividends per common share	$ 1.98	$ 1.96
Cash dividends per preferred share	0.0075	0.0075
Cash dividend per common share
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash dividends per common share	0.48	0.46
Special cash dividend per common share
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash dividends per common share	$ 1.50	$ 1.50

Stockholders Equity Recon of Ou

Stockholders Equity Recon of Outstanding Common Stock table & Text (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	(66,475)	(99,312)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	$ (4,577)	$ (6,806)
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	36,300
Payment Of Special Cash Dividend	$ 37,000	$ 37,300
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	24,652,340	24,837,976	24,718,815	24,930,526
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	0	6,762
Stock-based compensation	$ 202	$ 218
Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	(66,475)	(99,312)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	24,640,927	24,826,563	24,707,402	24,919,113
Common stock, without par value	$ 152,444		$ 152,652
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	0	6,762
Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares	0	0
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	11,413	11,413	11,413	11,413
Common stock, without par value	$ 72		$ 72
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures	0	0
Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	$ (410)	$ (612)
Common stock, without par value	152,516	153,267	152,724	$ 153,661
Stock-based compensation	202	218
Common Stock | Common Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	(410)	(612)
Common stock, without par value	152,444	153,195	152,652	153,589
Stock-based compensation	202	218
Common Stock | Common Class B
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	0	0
Common stock, without par value	72	72	$ 72	$ 72
Stock-based compensation	$ 0	$ 0

Stockholders Equity Accumulated

Stockholders Equity Accumulated other comprehensive income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated other comprehensive income		$ 189,166		$ 91,318
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	[1]	194,532	$ 193,338	96,921	$ 295,169
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, after Tax	[1]	99,871	(95,937)
Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	[1]	3,162	3,345	3,133	537
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, after Tax	[1]	29	2,808
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income		(8,528)	(10,461)	(8,736)	(10,723)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax		0	0
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated other comprehensive income		189,166	186,222	$ 91,318	$ 284,983
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-sale, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, after Tax		99,900	(87,260)
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax		(2,052)	237
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax	[2]	(2,260)	(25)
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax	[2]	0	0
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax		208	262
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax		$ (2,052)	237
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] | Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets	[1],[3]		(5,869)
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01 [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets	[3]		$ (5,869)
[1]	Includes the impact of taxes, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired, unearned revenue reserves and policyholder liabilities. See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements for further information.
[2]	See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements for further information.
[3]	See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements for further discussion on this one-time adjustment related to an accounting change.

Stockholders Equity AOC I Recla

Stockholders Equity AOC I Reclassification Adjustments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments		$ 10,157	$ (1,747)
Income available to common stockholders		34,005	23,527
Income taxes		6,276	3,813
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments		(2,994)	(83)
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments		133	51
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax		263	331
Income available to common stockholders		(2,598)	299
Income taxes		546	(62)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax		(2,052)	237
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	[1]	(2,994)	(83)
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	[1]	133	51
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax	[1]	0	0
Income available to common stockholders	[1]	(2,861)	(32)
Income taxes	[1]	601	7
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax	[1]	(2,260)	(25)
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Other-than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments	[1]	0	0
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments	[1]	0	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax	[1]	0	0
Income available to common stockholders	[1]	0	0
Income taxes	[1]	0	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Net of Tax	[1]	0	0
reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Net realized capital gains on sales of investments		0	0
Change in offsets to unrealized on investments		0	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax		263	331
Income available to common stockholders		263	331
Income taxes		(55)	(69)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax		$ 208	$ 262
[1]	See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements for further information.

Earnings per Share (Details)

Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Numerator [Abstract]
Net income attributable to FBL Financial Group, Inc.	$ 34,043	$ 23,565
Less: Dividends Series B preferred stock	(38)	(38)
Income available to common stockholders	$ 34,005	$ 23,527
Denominator [Abstract]
Weighted average shares - diluted	24,776,453	25,019,509
Weighted average shares - basic	24,765,277	25,003,691
Effect of dilutive securities - stock-based compensation	11,176	15,818
Earnings per common share	$ 1.37	$ 0.94
Earnings per common share - assuming dilution	$ 1.37	$ 0.94

Segment Information Financial I

Segment Information Financial Information Conerning our Operating Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Pre-Tax Operating Income (Loss)		$ 30,073	$ 31,012
Realized gains losses on investments net of offsets	[1]	9,152	(2,814)
Derivatives unrealized gain net of offsets	[1]	1,153	(644)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent		40,378	27,554
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		6,276	3,813
Income Tax on Equity Income		(59)	(176)
Operating Income (Loss)		34,043	23,565
Operating revenues		183,068	189,273
Realized gains on investments related to revenue	[1]	9,289	(2,971)
Derivative unrealized related to revenues	[1]	11,199	(3,872)
Revenues		203,556	182,430
Annuity Segment
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Pre-Tax Operating Income (Loss)		15,662	16,582
Operating revenues		52,682	57,435
Life Insurance Segment
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Pre-Tax Operating Income (Loss)		10,092	10,897
Operating revenues		107,258	107,727
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Pre-Tax Operating Income (Loss)		4,319	3,533
Operating revenues		$ 23,128	$ 24,111
[1]	Amounts are net of adjustments, as applicable, to amortization of unearned revenue reserves, deferred acquisition costs, value of insurance in force acquired and interest sensitive policy reserves attributable to these items.

Segment Information Goodwill by

Segment Information Goodwill by segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Annuity Segment
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 3.9	$ 3.9
Life Insurance Segment
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 6.1	$ 6.1

Segment Information Schedule of

Segment Information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Pre-Tax on Equity Income (Loss)	$ 279	$ 836
Income Tax on Equity Income	(59)	(176)
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	220	660
Life Insurance Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Pre-Tax on Equity Income (Loss)	370	695
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Pre-Tax on Equity Income (Loss)	$ (91)	$ 141

Segment Information Reconciliat

Segment Information Reconciliation of Traditional Life Insurance Premiums, Net of Reinsurance & Interest Sensitive Product Charges by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Premiums collected	$ 160,700	$ 169,700
Change in due premiums and other	(230)	(184)
Traditional life insurance premiums	49,392	49,497
Interest sensitive product charges	31,266	30,098
Net realized gains/losses on investments & change in fair value of derivatives on amortization of unearned revenue reserves	306	(184)
Life Insurance Segment
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Premiums collected	78,001	76,263
Interest sensitive product charges	18,988	18,059
Life Insurance Segment | Admin charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	4,667	4,046
Life Insurance Segment | Cost of insurance charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	12,633	12,537
Life Insurance Segment | Surrender charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	621	681
Life Insurance Segment | Amortization of policy initiation fees
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,067	795
Life insurance - interest sensitive
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Premiums collected	28,379	26,582
Life insurance - traditional
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Premiums collected	49,622	49,681
Annuity Segment | Cost of insurance charges & Surrender charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,567	1,202
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	10,405	11,021
Corporate and Other | Admin charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,236	1,316
Corporate and Other | Cost of insurance charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	7,202	7,140
Corporate and Other | Surrender charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	24	23
Corporate and Other | Separate account charges
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	1,936	2,145
Corporate and Other | Amortization of policy initiation fees
Segment Reporting, Other Significant Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Interest sensitive product charges	$ 7	$ 397