| Cover | Nov. 14, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 14, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-31911 |
| Entity Registrant Name | AMERICAN EQUITY INVESTMENT LIFE HOLDING CO |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001039828 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 42-1447959 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | IA |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6000 Westown Parkway |
| Entity Address, City or Town | West Des Moines |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 50266 |
| City Area Code | 515 |
| Local Phone Number | 221-0002 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $1 |
| Trading Symbol | AEL |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
