Prudential Financial, Inc. 5.62 (PRS) 10-K 20 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document And Entity [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	PRU
Entity Registrant Name	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL INC
Entity Central Index Key	1137774
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		454,000,000	458,000,000
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Public Float			$40,693,000,000
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated_Statements_of_Fin

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost: 2014 - $265,116; 2013 - $268,727)(1)	$299,090	[1]	$286,866	[1]
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value: 2014 - $2,902; 2013 - $3,553)(1)	2,575	[1],[2]	3,312	[1]
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value(1)	20,263	[1]	20,827	[1]
Other trading account assets, at fair value(1)	10,874	[1]	6,453	[1]
Equity Securites, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)	9,861		9,910
Commercial mortgage and other loans (includes $380 and $158 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, repectively)(1)	46,432	[1],[3]	41,008	[1],[3]
Policy loans	11,712		11,766
Other long-term investments (includes $1,082 and $873 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)(1)	10,921	[1]	10,328	[1]
Short-term investments	8,258		7,703
Total investments	419,986		398,173
Cash and cash equivalents(1)	14,918	[1]	11,439	[1]
Accrued investment income(1)	3,130	[1]	3,089	[1]
Deferred policy acquisition costs	15,971		16,512
Value of business acquired	2,836	[4]	3,675
Other assets(1)	13,379	[1]	13,833	[1]
Separate account assets	296,435		285,060
Total Assets	766,655		731,781
LIABILITIES
Future policy benefits	217,766		206,859
Policyholders' account balances(1)	136,150	[1]	136,657	[1]
Policyholders' dividends	7,661		5,515
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	9,407		7,898
Cash collateral for loaned securities	4,241		5,040
Income taxes	9,881		5,422
Short-term debt	3,839	[5]	2,669	[5]
Long-term debt	19,831	[6]	23,553	[6]
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities (includes $6,033 and $3,254 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)(1)	6,058	[1]	3,302	[1]
Other liabilities(1)	13,037	[1]	13,925	[1]
Separate account liabilities	296,435		285,060
Total liabilities	724,306		695,900
EQUITY
Preferred Stock ($.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued)	0		0
Common Stock	6		6
Additional paid-in capital	24,565		24,475
Common Stock held in treasury, at cost (205,277,862 and 199,056,067 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	-13,088		-12,415
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	-651		0
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	16,050		8,681
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit	14,888		14,531
Total Prudential Financial, Inc. equity	41,770		35,278
Noncontrolling interests	579		603
Total equity	42,349		35,881
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY	766,655		731,781
Common Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock	6		6
Common Class B Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock	0		0
Fair Value Option [Member]
ASSETS
Commercial mortgage and other loans (includes $380 and $158 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, repectively)(1)	380		158
Other long-term investments (includes $1,082 and $873 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)(1)	1,082		873
LIABILITIES
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities (includes $6,033 and $3,254 measured at fair value under the fair value option at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)(1)	6,033		3,254
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
EQUITY
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	($650.80)
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[3]	Includes loans held at fair value.
[4]	The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.
[5]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[6]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Fin1

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jan. 02, 2015
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	$265,116		$268,727
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, fair value	2,902	[1]	3,553
Available For Sale Equity Securities Amortized Cost Basis	6,921		7,003
Preferred Stock, par value	$0.01		$0.01
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	10,000,000		10,000,000
Other Long Term Investments	10,921	[2]	10,328	[2]
Total Commercial Mortgage And Other Loans	46,432	[2],[3]	41,008	[2],[3]
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities	6,058	[2]	3,302	[2]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock, par value	$0.01		$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	1,500,000,000		1,500,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	660,111,339		660,111,319
Common Stock held in treasury, shares	205,277,862		199,056,067
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Common Stock, par value	$0.01		$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	10,000,000		10,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	2,000,000		2,000,000
Common Stock, shares outstanding			2,000,000		2,000,000	2,000,000
Fair Value Option [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	1,082		873
Total Commercial Mortgage And Other Loans	380		158
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities	$6,033		$3,254
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Common Stock held in treasury, shares	2,000,000		0				2,000,000
[1]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[2]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[3]	Includes loans held at fair value.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
REVENUES
Premiums Earned Net	$29,293	$26,237	$65,354
Insurance Commissions And Fees	6,179	5,415	4,489
Net investment income	15,256	14,729	13,661
Asset management and service fees	3,719	3,485	3,053
Other income	-1,978	-3,199	-269
Realized investment gains (losses), net:
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities	-127	-1,055	-1,611
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to Other Comprehensive Income	71	856	1,274
Other realized investment gains (losses), net	1,692	-5,007	-1,104
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	1,636	-5,206	-1,441
Total revenues	54,105	41,461	84,847
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES
Policyholders' benefits	31,587	26,733	65,131
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	4,263	3,111	4,234
Dividends to policyholders	2,716	2,050	2,176
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	1,973	240	1,504
General and administrative expenses	11,807	11,011	11,094
Total benefits and expenses	52,346	43,145	84,139
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY IN EARNINGS OF OPERATING JOINT VENTURES	1,759	-1,684	708
IncomeTaxExpense(Benefit)
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	376	34	1,088
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	-27	-1,092	-875
Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures	349	-1,058	213
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE EQUITY IN EARNINGS OF OPERATING JOINT VENTURES	1,410	-626	495
Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures, net of taxes	16	59	60
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS	1,426	-567	555
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	12	7	15
NET INCOME	1,438	-560	570
Less: Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	57	107	50
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC	$1,381	($667)	$520
Financial Services Business [Member]
Basic:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$3.23	($1.57)	$1.02
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$0.02	$0.02	$0.04
Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$3.25	($1.55)	$1.06
Diluted:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$3.20	($1.57)	$1.01
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$0.03	$0.02	$0.04
Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$3.23	($1.55)	$1.05
Closed Block Business [Member]
Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Class B Stock	($70)	$22	$11.50
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	$0.56	$0	($1)
Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Class B Stock	($69.44)	$22	$10.50
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted [Abstract]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$9.63	$9.63	$9.63
Common Stock [Member]
Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted [Abstract]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$2.17	$1.73	$1.60

Consolidated_Statements_of_Oth

Consolidated Statements of Other Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Profit Loss	$1,438	($560)	$570
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	-1,081	-1,487	-263
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)	13,730	-1,528	8,632
Defined benefit pension and postretirement unrecognized net periodic benefit (cost)	-1,043	874	-699
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax	11,606	-2,141	7,670
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	4,249	-582	2,667
Other Comprehensive Income, net of taxes	7,357	-1,559	5,003
Total comprehensive income (loss)	8,795	-2,119	5,573
Less: Comprehensive Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	45	81	84
Comprehensive income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$8,750	($2,200)	$5,489

Consolidated_Statements_of_Equ

Consolidated Statements of Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]		Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Common Stock Held in Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]	Total Prudential Financial, Inc. Equity	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$34,639,000,000	$6,000,000	[1]	$24,293,000,000	$16,506,000,000	($11,920,000,000)	$5,245,000,000	$34,130,000,000	$509,000,000
Common and Class B Stock acquired	-650,000,000					-650,000,000		-650,000,000
NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromSubsidiaryEquityIssuance	4,000,000								4,000,000
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-85,000,000								-85,000,000
Consolidations/deconsolidations of noncontrolling interests	97,000,000								97,000,000
Dividends Declared Common Stock	-749,000,000				-749,000,000			-749,000,000
Dividends Declared Class B Stock	-19,000,000				-19,000,000			-19,000,000
Stock-based compensation programs	302,000,000			87,000,000	-192,000,000	407,000,000		302,000,000
Comprehensive income:
Profit Loss	570,000,000				520,000,000			520,000,000	50,000,000
Other Comprehensive Income, net of taxes	5,003,000,000						4,969,000,000	4,969,000,000	34,000,000
Total comprehensive income (loss)	5,573,000,000							5,489,000,000	84,000,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	39,112,000,000	6,000,000	[1]	24,380,000,000	16,066,000,000	-12,163,000,000	10,214,000,000	38,503,000,000	609,000,000
Common and Class B Stock acquired	-750,000,000					-750,000,000		-750,000,000
NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromSubsidiaryEquityIssuance	4,000,000								4,000,000
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-113,000,000								-113,000,000
Consolidations/deconsolidations of noncontrolling interests	22,000,000								22,000,000
Dividends Declared Common Stock	-810,000,000				-810,000,000			-810,000,000
Dividends Declared Class B Stock	-19,000,000				-19,000,000			-19,000,000
Stock-based compensation programs	554,000,000			95,000,000	-39,000,000	498,000,000		554,000,000
Comprehensive income:
Profit Loss	-560,000,000				-667,000,000			-667,000,000	107,000,000
Other Comprehensive Income, net of taxes	-1,559,000,000						-1,533,000,000	-1,533,000,000	-26,000,000
Total comprehensive income (loss)	-2,119,000,000							-2,200,000,000	81,000,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	35,881,000,000	6,000,000	[1]	24,475,000,000	14,531,000,000	-12,415,000,000	8,681,000,000	35,278,000,000	603,000,000
Common and Class B Stock acquired	-1,651,000,000					-1,000,000,000		-1,651,000,000		-651,000,000
NoncontrollingInterestIncreaseFromSubsidiaryEquityIssuance	103,000,000			-4,000,000				-4,000,000	107,000,000
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	-175,000,000								-175,000,000
Consolidations/deconsolidations of noncontrolling interests	-1,000,000								-1,000,000
Dividends Declared Common Stock	-1,005,000,000				-1,005,000,000			-1,005,000,000
Dividends Declared Class B Stock	-19,000,000				-19,000,000			-19,000,000
Stock-based compensation programs	421,000,000			94,000,000		327,000,000		421,000,000
Comprehensive income:
Profit Loss	1,438,000,000				1,381,000,000			1,381,000,000	57,000,000
Other Comprehensive Income, net of taxes	7,357,000,000						7,369,000,000	7,369,000,000	-12,000,000
Total comprehensive income (loss)	8,795,000,000							8,750,000,000	45,000,000
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$42,349,000,000	$6,000,000	[1]	$24,565,000,000	$14,888,000,000	($13,088,000,000)	$16,050,000,000	$41,770,000,000	$579,000,000	($651,000,000)
[1]	Class B Stock is not presented as the amounts are immaterial.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (Loss)	$1,438		($560)		$570
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Realized investment (gains) losses, net	-1,636		5,206		1,441
Policy charges and fee income	-2,156		-1,649		-1,412
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	4,263		3,111		4,234
Depreciation and amortization	631		411		302
Gains on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, net	-339		250		-613
Change in:
Deferred policy acquisition costs	-721		-2,661		-2,061
Future policy benefits and other insurance liabilities	11,276		8,379		17,784
Other trading account assets	44		-33		-33
Income taxes	175		-1,343		527
Other, net	6,421		-2,666		170
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	19,396		8,445		20,909
Proceeds from the sale/maturity/prepayment of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	49,529		60,719		38,678
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	415		587		528
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets	13,548		19,412		15,347
Equity securities, available for sale	5,001		4,227		4,202
Commercial mortgage and other loans	4,076		6,501		5,327
Policy loans	2,084		2,231		2,241
Other long-term investments	655		1,873		1,474
Short-term investments	73,823		60,002		28,123
Payments for the purchase/origination of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	-57,467		-67,774		-52,212
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	-21		-208		-18
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets	-16,522		-22,552		-16,115
Equity securities, available for sale	-4,476		-4,301		-4,001
Commercial mortgage and other loans	-9,346		-10,316		-7,066
Policy loans	-1,855		-1,831		-2,012
Other long-term investments	-2,445		-2,850		-1,736
Short-term investments	-74,295		-61,034		-28,323
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired.	-23		-488		0
Other, net	231		-532		143
Cash flows used in investing activities	-17,088		-16,334		-15,420
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Policyholders' account deposits	23,977		24,721		22,822
Policyholders' account withdrawals	-22,003		-24,960		-24,014
Net change in securities sold under agreements to repurchase and cash collateral for loaned securities	710		3,200		584
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-1,027		-847		-768
Net change in financing arrangements (maturities of 90 days or less)	-27		96		-583
Common Stock reissued for exercise of stock options	269		348		150
Proceeds from the issuance of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	7,955		4,660		6,064
Repayments of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	-7,384		-3,939		-3,391
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements	26		32		51
Common Stock Acquired	-1,000		-738		-650
Change In Bank Deposits	0		0		-1,730
Other, net	133		-331		160
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	1,629		2,242		-1,305
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash balances	-458		-1,014		-335
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	3,479		-6,661		3,849
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR	11,439	[1]	18,100		14,251
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR	14,918	[1]	11,439	[1]	18,100
NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS DURING THE PERIOD
Treasury Stock shares issued for stock-based compensation programs	100		105		211
FHLBNY debt reissued as funding agreements in PHAB	0		0		445
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income Taxes Paid, Net	109		1,279		501
Interest Paid	$1,883		$1,387		$1,349
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas1

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Non-Cash Transactions (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Treasury Stock shares issued for stock-based compensation programs	$100	$105	$211
FHLBNY debt reissued as funding agreements in PHAB	0	0	445
Hartford [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets excluding cash and cash equivalents	0	11,056	0
Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Liabilities	0	10,568	0
Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired	0	488	0
Uni Asia Life Assurance Berhad [Member]
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets excluding cash and cash equivalents	656	0	0
Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Liabilities	586	0	0
Noncontrolling Interest Assumed	47	0	0
Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired	23	0	0
Pension Risk Transfer [Member]
Liabilities Assumed PRT	4,653	0	33,423
Assets Received And Related Liabilities Recorded Pension Risk Transfer, assets received	1,435	0	33,423
Assets Received And Related Liabilities Recorded Pension Risk Transfer, net cash received	$3,218	$0	$0

Business_and_Basis_of_Presenta

Business and Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business and Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Business and Basis of Presentation	1.    BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	Prudential Financial, Inc. (“Prudential Financial”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Prudential” or the “Company”) provide a wide range of insurance, investment management, and other financial products and services to both individual and institutional customers throughout the United States and in many other countries. Principal products and services provided include life insurance, annuities, retirement-related services, mutual funds, and investment management.
	On December 18, 2001 (the “date of demutualization”), The Prudential Insurance Company of America (“Prudential Insurance”) converted from a mutual life insurance company to a stock life insurance company and became an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Prudential Financial.
	From demutualization through December 31, 2014, the Company has organized its principal operations into the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business. The Financial Services Businesses operate through three operating divisions: U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management, U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance, and International Insurance. The Company's divested businesses and businesses that are not sufficiently material to warrant separate disclosure are included in Corporate and Other operations within the Financial Services Businesses. The Closed Block Business, which has included the Closed Block (see Note 12), is managed separately from the Financial Services Businesses. The Closed Block Business was established on the date of demutualization and includes the Company's in force participating insurance and annuity products and assets that are used for the payment of benefits and policyholders' dividends on these products, as well as other assets and equity that support these products and related liabilities. In connection with the demutualization, the Company ceased offering these participating products.
	From demutualization through December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial has had two classes of common stock: the Common Stock, which is publicly traded (NYSE:PRU) and which has reflected the performance of the Financial Services Businesses, and the Class B Stock, which was issued through a private placement, did not trade on any stock exchange, and which has reflected the performance of the Closed Block Business.
	On January 2, 2015, pursuant to a Share Repurchase Agreement, Prudential Financial repurchased and cancelled the 2.0 million shares of the Class B Stock, representing all of the outstanding shares of the Class B stock, for an aggregate cash purchase price of $650.8 million (the “Class B Repurchase”). The purchase price was determined by an independent appraiser under the methodology set forth in Prudential Financial's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Pursuant to the Share Repurchase Agreement, holders of a majority of the Class B Stock may dispute the purchase price prior to April 6, 2015, and any dispute may be resolved through arbitration. Accordingly, the final purchase price of the Class B Stock may change in the event of a dispute. Effective December 1, 2014, the Class B Repurchase was recorded within the Closed Block Business and resulted in a reduction to “Total Prudential Financial, Inc. equity” in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. In addition, on December 18, 2014, PHLLC redeemed all of the then outstanding IHC Debt, for an aggregate redemption price of $2.1 billion.
	As a result of the Class B Repurchase, for reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, the Company will no longer organize its principal operations into the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business. In addition to the divisions noted above and its Corporate and Other operations, the Company will report a Closed Block division, which will be accounted for as a divested business that is reported separately from the divested businesses that are included in Corporate and Other operations. See Note 25 for additional information.
	Basis of Presentation
	The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Prudential Financial, entities over which the Company exercises control, including majority-owned subsidiaries and minority-owned entities such as limited partnerships in which the Company is the general partner, and variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary. See Note 5 for more information on the Company's consolidated variable interest entities. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
	The Company's Gibraltar Life Insurance Company, Ltd. (“Gibraltar Life”) consolidated operations, including the previously-acquired AIG Star Life Insurance Co., Ltd., AIG Edison Life Insurance Company, AIG Financial Assurance Japan K.K., and AIG Edison Service Co., Ltd. (collectively the “Star and Edison Businesses”) use a November 30 fiscal year end for purposes of inclusion in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. Therefore, the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 include the assets and liabilities of Gibraltar Life as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, include Gibraltar Life's results of operations for the twelve months ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	The most significant estimates include those used in determining deferred policy acquisition costs and related amortization; value of business acquired and its amortization; amortization of sales inducements; measurement of goodwill and any related impairment; valuation of investments including derivatives and the recognition of other-than-temporary impairments; future policy benefits including guarantees; pension and other postretirement benefits; provision for income taxes and valuation of deferred tax assets; and reserves for contingent liabilities, including reserves for losses in connection with unresolved legal matters.
	Out of Period Adjustments
	During 2014, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $193 million to “Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014. Such adjustments were primarily comprised of: 1) a charge of $58 million from an increase in reserves for group long-term disability products; 2) a charge of $43 million from an increase in the deferred profit liability for certain limited pay business within the Gibraltar Life business; and 3) a charge of $35 million from an increase in reserves, net of related amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, for certain variable annuities products with optional living benefit guarantees. Management has evaluated the impact of all out of period adjustments, both individually and in the aggregate, and concluded that they are not material to the current annual financial statements or to any previously reported quarterly or annual financial statements. For additional information on the impact of these adjustments to the Company's operating segments, see Note 22.
	As previously disclosed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, during 2012, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $170 million to “Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the year ended December 31, 2012. These adjustments primarily resulted from 1) a decline in the value of a real estate-related investment, where, based on a review of the underlying collateral and a related guarantee, the Company determined that impairments of $75 million should be recognized, of which $61 million should have been recorded in prior years; 2) an increase of $61 million in reserves for estimated payments arising from use of new Social Security Master Death File matching criteria to identify deceased policy and contract holders which should have been reflected in the third quarter of 2011; and 3) an increase of $54 million in recorded liabilities for certain employee benefits based on a review of the consistency of recognition of such liabilities across the Company which should have been recorded in prior years. Management has evaluated the impact of all out of period adjustments both individually and in the aggregate and concluded they were not material to any previously reported quarterly or annual financial statements.
	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Significant_Accounting_Policie

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements	2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRONOUNCEMENTS
	Share-Based Payments
	The Company recognizes the cost resulting from all share-based payments in accordance with the authoritative guidance on accounting for stock based compensation and applies the fair value-based measurement method in accounting for share-based payment transactions with employees except for equity instruments held by employee share ownership plans. The Company accounts for excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital as a single “pool” available to all share-based compensation awards. The Company does not recognize excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital until the benefits result in a reduction in taxes payable. The Company has elected the “tax-law ordering methodology” and has adopted a convention that considers excess tax benefits to be the last portion of a net operating loss carryforward to be utilized.
	The Company accounts for non-employee stock options using the fair value method in accordance with authoritative guidance and related interpretations on accounting for equity instruments that are issued to other than employees for acquiring, or in conjunction with selling, goods or services.
	Earnings Per Share
	As discussed in Note 1, from demutualization through December 31, 2014, the Company has had outstanding two separate classes of common stock. Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing available income attributable to each of the two groups of common shareholders by the respective weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the effect of all dilutive potential common shares that were outstanding during the period.
	As discussed under “Share-Based Payments” above, the Company accounts for excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital as a single “pool” available to all share-based compensation awards. The Company reflects in assumed proceeds, based on application of the treasury stock method, the excess tax benefits that would be recognized in additional paid-in capital upon exercise or release of the award.
	Investments and Investment-Related Liabilities
	The Company's principal investments are fixed maturities; equity securities; commercial mortgage and other loans; policy loans; other long-term investments, including joint ventures (other than operating joint ventures), limited partnerships, and real estate; and short-term investments. Investments and investment-related liabilities also include securities repurchase and resale agreements and securities lending transactions. The accounting policies related to each are as follows:
	Fixed maturities are comprised of bonds, notes and redeemable preferred stock. Fixed maturities classified as “available-for-sale” are carried at fair value. See Note 20 for additional information regarding the determination of fair value. Fixed maturities that the Company has both the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are carried at amortized cost and classified as “held-to-maturity.” The amortized cost of fixed maturities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Interest income, as well as the related amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is included in “Net investment income” under the effective yield method. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, the effective yield is based on estimated cash flows, including interest rate and prepayment assumptions based on data from widely accepted third-party data sources or internal estimates. In addition to interest rate and prepayment assumptions, cash flow estimates also vary based on other assumptions regarding the underlying collateral, including default rates and changes in value. These assumptions can significantly impact income recognition and the amount of other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings and other comprehensive income. For high credit quality mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities (those rated AA or above), cash flows are provided quarterly, and the amortized cost and effective yield of the security are adjusted as necessary to reflect historical prepayment experience and changes in estimated future prepayments. The adjustments to amortized cost are recorded as a charge or credit to net investment income in accordance with the retrospective method. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities rated below AA, or those for which an other than temporary impairment has been recorded, the effective yield is adjusted prospectively for any changes in estimated cash flows. See the discussion below on realized investment gains and losses for a description of the accounting for impairments. Unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturities classified as “available-for-sale,” net of tax, and the effect on deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, deferred sales inducements (“DSI”), future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances and policyholders' dividends that would result from the realization of unrealized gains and losses, are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” (“AOCI”).
	“Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value” includes invested assets that support certain products included in the Retirement and International Insurance segments which are experience rated, meaning that the investment results associated with these products are expected to ultimately accrue to contractholders. Realized and unrealized gains and losses for these investments are reported in “Other income.” Interest and dividend income from these investments is reported in “Net investment income.”
	“Other trading account assets, at fair value” consist primarily of fixed maturities, equity securities, including certain perpetual preferred stock, and certain derivatives. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on these investments are reported in “Other income,” and interest and dividend income from these investments is reported in “Net investment income.” See “Derivative Financial Instruments” below for additional information regarding the accounting for derivatives.
	“Equity securities available-for-sale, at fair value” are comprised of common stock, mutual fund shares and non-redeemable preferred stock, and are carried at fair value. The associated unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, and the effect on deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, DSI, future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances and policyholders' dividends that would result from the realization of unrealized gains and losses, are included in AOCI. The cost of equity securities is written down to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. See the discussion below on realized investment gains and losses for a description of the accounting for impairments. Dividends from these investments are recognized in “Net investment income” when earned.
	“Commercial mortgage and other loans” consist of commercial mortgage loans, agricultural loans, loans backed by residential properties, as well as certain other collateralized and uncollateralized loans. Loans backed by residential properties primarily include recourse loans held by the Company's international insurance businesses. Uncollateralized loans primarily represent reverse dual currency loans and corporate loans held by the Company's international insurance businesses.
	Commercial mortgage and other loans originated and held for investment are generally carried at unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized deferred loan origination fees and expenses, and net of an allowance for losses. Commercial mortgage loans originated within the Company's commercial mortgage operations include loans held for sale which are reported at the lower of cost or fair value; loans held for investment which are reported at amortized cost net of unamortized deferred loan origination fees and expenses, and net of an allowance for losses; and loans reported at fair value under the fair value option. Commercial mortgage and other loans acquired, including those related to the acquisition of a business, are recorded at fair value when purchased, reflecting any premiums or discounts to unpaid principal balances.
	Interest income, as well as prepayment fees and the amortization of the related premiums or discounts, related to commercial mortgage and other loans, are included in “Net investment income.”
	Impaired loans include those loans for which it is probable that amounts due will not all be collected according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. The Company defines “past due” as principal or interest not collected at least 30 days past the scheduled contractual due date. Interest received on loans that are past due, including impaired and non-impaired loans as well as loans that were previously modified in a troubled debt restructuring, is either applied against the principal or reported as net investment income based on the Company's assessment as to the collectability of the principal. See Note 4 for additional information about the Company's past due loans.
	The Company discontinues accruing interest on loans after the loans become 90 days delinquent as to principal or interest payments, or earlier when the Company has doubts about collectability. When the Company discontinues accruing interest on a loan, any accrued but uncollectible interest on the loan and other loans backed by the same collateral, if any, is charged to interest income in the same period. Generally, a loan is restored to accrual status only after all delinquent interest and principal are brought current and, in the case of loans where the payment of interest has been interrupted for a substantial period, or the loan has been modified, a regular payment performance has been established.
	The Company reviews the performance and credit quality of the commercial mortgage and other loan portfolio on an on-going basis. Loans are placed on watch list status based on a predefined set of criteria and are assigned one of three categories. Loans are placed on “early warning” status in cases where, based on the Company's analysis of the loan's collateral, the financial situation of the borrower or tenants or other market factors, it is believed a loss of principal or interest could occur. Loans are classified as “closely monitored” when it is determined that there is a collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. Loans “not in good standing” are those loans where the Company has concluded that there is a high probability of loss of principal, such as when the loan is delinquent or in the process of foreclosure. As described below, in determining the allowance for losses, the Company evaluates each loan on the watch list to determine if it is probable that amounts due will not be collected according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.
	Loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios are measures commonly used to assess the quality of commercial mortgage loans. The loan-to-value ratio compares the amount of the loan to the fair value of the underlying property collateralizing the loan, and is commonly expressed as a percentage. Loan-to-value ratios greater than 100% indicate that the loan amount exceeds the collateral value. A smaller loan-to-value ratio indicates a greater excess of collateral value over the loan amount. The debt service coverage ratio compares a property's net operating income to its debt service payments. Debt service coverage ratios less than 1.0 times indicate that property operations do not generate enough income to cover the loan's current debt payments. A larger debt service coverage ratio indicates a greater excess of net operating income over the debt service payments. The values utilized in calculating these ratios are developed as part of the Company's periodic review of the commercial mortgage loan and agricultural loan portfolio, which includes an internal appraisal of the underlying collateral value. The Company's periodic review also includes a quality re-rating process, whereby the internal quality rating originally assigned at underwriting is updated based on current loan, property and market information using a proprietary quality rating system. The loan-to-value ratio is the most significant of several inputs used to establish the internal credit rating of a loan which in turn drives the allowance for losses. Other key factors considered in determining the internal credit rating include debt service coverage ratios, amortization, loan term, estimated market value growth rate and volatility for the property type and region. See Note 4 for additional information related to the loan-to-value ratios and debt service coverage ratios related to the Company's commercial mortgage and agricultural loan portfolios.
	Loans backed by residential properties and uncollateralized loans are also reviewed periodically. Each loan is assigned an internal or external credit rating. Internal credit ratings take into consideration various factors including financial ratios and qualitative assessments based on non-financial information. In cases where there are personal or third party guarantors, the credit quality of the guarantor is also reviewed. These factors are used in developing the allowance for losses. Based on the diversity of the loans in these categories and their immateriality, the Company has not disclosed the credit quality indicators related to these loans in Note 4.
	For those loans not reported at fair value, the allowance for losses includes a loan specific reserve for each impaired loan that has a specifically identified loss and a portfolio reserve for probable incurred but not specifically identified losses. For impaired commercial mortgage and other loans the allowances for losses are determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or based upon the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. The portfolio reserves for probable incurred but not specifically identified losses in the commercial mortgage and agricultural loan portfolios consider the current credit composition of the portfolio based on an internal quality rating (as described above). The portfolio reserves are determined using past loan experience, including historical credit migration, loss probability and loss severity factors by property type. These factors are reviewed each quarter and updated as appropriate.
	The allowance for losses on commercial mortgage and other loans can increase or decrease from period to period based on the factors noted above. “Realized investment gains (losses), net” includes changes in the allowance for losses and changes in value for loans accounted for under the fair value option. “Realized investment gains (losses), net” also includes gains and losses on sales, certain restructurings, and foreclosures.
	When a commercial mortgage or other loan is deemed to be uncollectible, any specific valuation allowance associated with the loan is reversed and a direct write down to the carrying amount of the loan is made. The carrying amount of the loan is not adjusted for subsequent recoveries in value.
	Commercial mortgage and other loans are occasionally restructured in a troubled debt restructuring. These restructurings generally include one or more of the following: full or partial payoffs outside of the original contract terms; changes to interest rates; extensions of maturity; or additions or modifications to covenants. Additionally, the Company may accept assets in full or partial satisfaction of the debt as part of a troubled debt restructuring. When restructurings occur, they are evaluated individually to determine whether the restructuring or modification constitutes a "troubled debt restructuring" as defined by authoritative accounting guidance. If the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the Company has granted a concession, the restructuring, including those that involve a partial payoff or the receipt of assets in full satisfaction of the debt is deemed to be a troubled debt restructuring. Based on the Company's credit review process described above, these loans generally would have been deemed impaired prior to the troubled debt restructuring, and specific allowances for losses would have been established prior to the determination that a troubled debt restructuring has occurred.
	In a troubled debt restructuring where the Company receives assets in full satisfaction of the debt, any specific valuation allowance is reversed and a direct write down of the loan is recorded for the amount of the allowance, and any additional loss, net of recoveries, or any gain is recorded for the difference between the fair value of the assets received and the recorded investment in the loan. When assets are received in partial settlement, the same process is followed, and the remaining loan is evaluated prospectively for impairment based on the credit review process noted above. When a loan is restructured in a troubled debt restructuring, the impairment of the loan is remeasured using the modified terms and the loan's original effective yield, and the allowance for loss is adjusted accordingly. Subsequent to the modification, income is recognized prospectively based on the modified terms of the loans in accordance with the income recognition policy noted above. Additionally, the loan continues to be subject to the credit review process noted above.
	In situations where a loan has been restructured in a troubled debt restructuring and the loan has subsequently defaulted, this factor is considered when evaluating the loan for a specific allowance for losses in accordance with the credit review process noted above.
	See Note 4 for additional information about commercial mortgage and other loans that have been restructured in a troubled debt restructuring.
	“Policy loans” are carried at unpaid principal balances. Interest income on policy loans is recognized in net investment income at the contract interest rate when earned. Policy loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the associated insurance policies.
	Securities repurchase and resale agreements and securities loaned transactions are used primarily to earn spread income, to borrow funds, or to facilitate trading activity. As part of securities repurchase agreements or securities loaned transactions, the Company transfers U.S. and foreign debt and equity securities, as well as U.S. government and government agency securities, and receives cash as collateral. As part of securities resale agreements, the Company invests cash and receives as collateral U.S. government securities or other debt securities. For securities repurchase agreements and securities loaned transactions used to earn spread income, the cash received is typically invested in cash equivalents, short-term investments or fixed maturities.
	Securities repurchase and resale agreements that satisfy certain criteria are treated as secured borrowing or secured lending arrangements. These agreements are carried at the amounts at which the securities will be subsequently resold or reacquired, as specified in the respective transactions. For securities purchased under agreements to resell, the Company's policy is to take possession or control of the securities either directly or through a third party custodian. These securities are valued daily and additional securities or cash collateral is received, or returned, when appropriate to protect against credit exposure. Securities to be resold are the same, or substantially the same, as the securities received. For securities sold under agreements to repurchase, the market value of the securities to be repurchased is monitored, and additional collateral is obtained where appropriate, to protect against credit exposure. Securities to be repurchased are the same, or substantially the same, as those sold. Income and expenses related to these transactions executed within the insurance companies used to earn spread income are reported as “Net investment income;” however, for transactions used for funding purposes, the associated borrowing cost is reported as interest expense (included in “General and administrative expenses”). Income and expenses related to these transactions executed within the Company's derivative operations are reported in “Other income.”
	Securities loaned transactions are treated as financing arrangements and are recorded at the amount of cash received. The Company obtains collateral in an amount equal to 102% and 105% of the fair value of the domestic and foreign securities, respectively. The Company monitors the market value of the securities loaned on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained as necessary. Substantially all of the Company's securities loaned transactions are with large brokerage firms. Income and expenses associated with securities loaned transactions used to earn spread income are reported as “Net investment income;” however, for securities loaned transactions used for funding purposes the associated rebate is reported as interest expense (included in “General and administrative expenses”).
	“Other long-term investments” consist of the Company's non-coupon investments in joint ventures and limited partnerships, other than operating joint ventures, as well as wholly-owned investment real estate and other investments. Joint venture and partnership interests are either accounted for using the equity method of accounting or under the cost method when the Company's partnership interest is so minor (generally less than 3%) that it exercises virtually no influence over operating and financial policies. The Company's income from investments in joint ventures and partnerships accounted for using the equity method or the cost method, other than the Company's investment in operating joint ventures, is included in “Net investment income.” The carrying value of these investments is written down, or impaired, to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. In applying the equity method or the cost method (including assessment for other-than-temporary impairment), the Company uses financial information provided by the investee, generally on a one to three month lag. The Company consolidates joint ventures and limited partnerships in certain other instances where it is deemed to exercise control, or is considered the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. See Note 5 for additional information about variable interest entities.
	The Company's wholly-owned investment real estate consists of real estate which the Company has the intent to hold for the production of income as well as real estate held for sale. Real estate which the Company has the intent to hold for the production of income is carried at depreciated cost less any writedowns to fair value for impairment losses and is reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Real estate held for sale is carried at the lower of depreciated cost or fair value less estimated selling costs and is not further depreciated once classified as such. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of the investment real estate exceeds the estimated undiscounted future cash flows (excluding interest charges) from the investment. At that time, the carrying value of the investment real estate is written down to fair value. Decreases in the carrying value of investment real estate held for the production of income due to other-than-temporary impairments are recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Depreciation on real estate held for the production of income is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated lives of the properties, and is included in “Net investment income.” In the period a real estate investment is deemed held for sale and meets all of the discontinued operation criteria, the Company reports all related net investment income and any resulting investment gains and losses as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	“Short-term investments” primarily consist of highly liquid debt instruments with a maturity of twelve months or less and greater than three months when purchased, other than those debt instruments meeting this definition that are included in “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.” These investments are generally carried at fair value and include certain money market investments, short-term debt securities issued by government sponsored entities and other highly liquid debt instruments. Short-term investments held in the Company's former broker-dealer operations were marked-to-market through “Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes.”
	Realized investment gains (losses) are computed using the specific identification method with the exception of some of the Company's International Insurance businesses' portfolios, where the average cost method is used. Realized investment gains and losses are generated from numerous sources, including the sale of fixed maturity securities, equity securities, investments in joint ventures and limited partnerships and other types of investments, as well as adjustments to the cost basis of investments for net other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings. Realized investment gains and losses are also generated from prepayment premiums received on private fixed maturity securities, allowance for losses on commercial mortgage and other loans, fair value changes on commercial mortgage loans carried at fair value, and fair value changes on embedded derivatives and free-standing derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. See “Derivative Financial Instruments” below for additional information regarding the accounting for derivatives.
	The Company's available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities with unrealized losses are reviewed quarterly to identify other-than-temporary impairments in value. In evaluating whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary, the Company considers several factors including, but not limited to the following: (1) the extent and the duration of the decline; (2) the reasons for the decline in value (credit event, currency or interest-rate related, including general credit spread widening); and (3) the financial condition of and near-term prospects of the issuer. With regard to available-for-sale equity securities, the Company also considers the ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time to allow for a recovery of value. When it is determined that a decline in value of an equity security is other-than-temporary, the carrying value of the equity security is reduced to its fair value, with a corresponding charge to earnings.
	An other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings for a debt security in an unrealized loss position when the Company either (a) has the intent to sell the debt security or (b) more likely than not will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery. For all debt securities in unrealized loss positions that do not meet either of these two criteria, the Company analyzes its ability to recover the amortized cost by comparing the net present value of projected future cash flows with the amortized cost of the security. The net present value is calculated by discounting the Company's best estimate of projected future cash flows at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security prior to impairment. The Company may use the estimated fair value of collateral as a proxy for the net present value if it believes that the security is dependent on the liquidation of collateral for recovery of its investment. If the net present value is less than the amortized cost of the investment, an other-than-temporary impairment is recognized. In addition to the above mentioned circumstances, the Company also recognizes an other-than-temporary impairment in earnings when a non-functional currency denominated security in an unrealized loss position due to currency exchange rates approaches maturity.
	When an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security has occurred, the amount of the other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings depends on whether the Company intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If the debt security meets either of these two criteria or the unrealized losses due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not expected to be recovered before maturity, the other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings is equal to the entire difference between the security's amortized cost basis and its fair value at the impairment measurement date. For other-than-temporary impairments of debt securities that do not meet these criteria, the net amount recognized in earnings is equal to the difference between the amortized cost of the debt security and its net present value calculated as described above. Any difference between the fair value and the net present value of the debt security at the impairment measurement date is recorded in “Other comprehensive income (loss).” Unrealized gains or losses on securities for which an other-than-temporary impairment has been recognized in earnings is tracked as a separate component of AOCI.
	For debt securities, the split between the amount of an other-than-temporary impairment recognized in other comprehensive income and the net amount recognized in earnings is driven principally by assumptions regarding the amount and timing of projected cash flows. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, cash flow estimates consider the payment terms of the underlying assets backing a particular security, including interest rate and prepayment assumptions based on data from widely accepted third-party data sources or internal estimates. In addition to interest rate and prepayment assumptions, cash flow estimates also include other assumptions regarding the underlying collateral including default rates and recoveries, which vary based on the asset type and geographic location, as well as the vintage year of the security. For structured securities, the payment priority within the tranche structure is also considered. For all other debt securities, cash flow estimates are driven by assumptions regarding probability of default and estimates regarding timing and amount of recoveries associated with a default. The Company has developed these estimates using information based on its historical experience as well as using market observable data, such as industry analyst reports and forecasts, sector credit ratings and other data relevant to the collectability of a security, such as the general payment terms of the security and the security's position within the capital structure of the issuer.
	The new cost basis of an impaired security is not adjusted for subsequent increases in estimated fair value. In periods subsequent to the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment, the impaired security is accounted for as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the impairment. For debt securities, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis may be accreted into net investment income in future periods, including increases in cash flow on a prospective basis. In certain cases where there are decreased cash flow expectations, the security is reviewed for further cash flow impairments.
	Unrealized investment gains and losses are also considered in determining certain other balances, including deferred policy acquisition costs, the value of business acquired, DSI, certain future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances, policyholders' dividends and deferred tax assets or liabilities. These balances are adjusted, as applicable, for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. Each of these balances is discussed in greater detail below.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, certain money market investments and other debt instruments with maturities of three months or less when purchased, other than cash equivalents that are included in “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.”
	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
	Costs that are related directly to the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance and annuity business are deferred to the extent such costs are deemed recoverable from future profits. Such DAC primarily includes commissions, costs of policy issuance and underwriting, and certain other expenses that are directly related to successfully negotiated contracts. In each reporting period, capitalized DAC is amortized to “Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs,” net of the accrual of imputed interest on DAC balances. DAC is subject to periodic recoverability testing. DAC, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI.
	For traditional participating life insurance included in the Closed Block, DAC is amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross margins based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is evaluated regularly. The effect of changes in estimated gross margins on unamortized DAC is reflected in the period such estimated gross margins are revised. Deferred policy acquisition costs related to interest-sensitive and variable life products and fixed and variable deferred annuity products are generally deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross profits arising principally from investment margins, mortality and expense margins, and surrender charges, based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is updated periodically. The Company uses a reversion to the mean approach for equities to derive future equity return assumptions. However, if the projected equity return calculated using this approach is greater than the maximum equity return assumption, the maximum equity return is utilized. Gross profits also include impacts from the embedded derivatives associated with certain of the optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity contracts and related hedging activities. The effect of changes to total gross profits on unamortized DAC is reflected in “Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs” in the period such total gross profits are revised. DAC related to non-participating traditional individual life insurance and longevity reinsurance contracts is amortized in proportion to gross premiums.
	For group annuity contracts (other than single premium group annuities), acquisition costs are generally deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross profits. For group corporate-, bank- and trust-owned life insurance contracts, acquisition costs are generally deferred and amortized in proportion to lives insured. For single premium immediate annuities with life contingencies, single premium group annuities, including non-participating group annuity contracts, and single premium structured settlements with life contingencies, all acquisition costs are charged to expense immediately because generally all premiums are received at the inception of the contract. For funding agreement notes contracts, single premium structured settlement contracts without life contingencies, and single premium immediate annuities without life contingencies, acquisition expenses are deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts using the interest method. For other group life and disability insurance contracts and guaranteed investment contracts, acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.
	For some products, policyholders can elect to modify product benefits, features, rights or coverages by exchanging a contract for a new contract or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. These transactions are known as internal replacements. If policyholders surrender traditional life insurance policies in exchange for life insurance policies that do not have fixed and guaranteed terms, the Company immediately charges to expense the remaining unamortized DAC on the surrendered policies. For other internal replacement transactions, except those that involve the addition of a nonintegrated contract feature that does not change the existing base contract, the unamortized DAC is immediately charged to expense if the terms of the new policies are not substantially similar to those of the former policies. If the new terms are substantially similar to those of the earlier policies, the DAC is retained with respect to the new policies and amortized over the expected life of the new policies.
	Value of Business Acquired
	As a result of certain acquisitions and the application of purchase accounting, the Company reports a financial asset representing the value of business acquired (“VOBA”). VOBA includes an explicit adjustment to reflect the cost of capital attributable to the acquired insurance contracts. VOBA represents an adjustment to the stated value of inforce insurance contract liabilities to present them at fair value, determined as of the acquisition date. VOBA balances are subject to recoverability testing, in the manner in which they were acquired. The Company has established a VOBA asset primarily for its acquired traditional life insurance products, accident and health products with fixed benefits, deferred annuity contracts, and defined contribution and defined benefit businesses. As of December 31, 2014, the majority of the VOBA balance relates to the 2011 acquisition of the Star and Edison Businesses and the January 2013 acquisition of The Hartford's individual life insurance business. The Company generally amortizes VOBA over the effective life of the acquired contracts in “General and administrative expenses.” For acquired traditional life insurance products and accident and health products with fixed benefits, VOBA is amortized in proportion to estimated gross premiums or in proportion to the face amount of insurance in force, as applicable. For acquired annuity and non-traditional life insurance contracts, VOBA is amortized in proportion to gross profits arising principally from investment margins, mortality and expense margins, and surrender charges, based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is updated periodically. For acquired defined contribution and defined benefit businesses, the majority of VOBA is amortized in proportion to estimated gross profits arising principally from investment spreads and fees in excess of actual expense based upon historical and estimated future experience, which is updated periodically. The effect of changes in total gross profits on unamortized VOBA is reflected in the period such total gross profits are revised. VOBA, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. See Note 8 for additional information regarding VOBA and Note 3 for additional information regarding the acquisition of the Star and Edison Businesses and The Hartford's individual life insurance business.
	Separate Account Assets and Liabilities
	Separate account assets are reported at fair value and represent segregated funds that are invested for certain policyholders, pension funds and other customers. The assets consist primarily of equity securities, fixed maturities, real estate-related investments, real estate mortgage loans, short-term investments and derivative instruments. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. See Note 11 for additional information regarding separate account arrangements with contractual guarantees. Separate account liabilities primarily represent the contractholder's account balance in separate account assets and to a lesser extent borrowings of the separate account, and will be equal and offsetting to total separate account assets. The investment income and realized investment gains or losses from separate account assets generally accrue to the policyholders and are not included in the Company's results of operations. Mortality, policy administration and surrender charges assessed against the accounts are included in “Policy charges and fee income.” Asset management fees charged to the accounts are included in “Asset management and service fees.” Seed money that the Company invests in separate accounts is reported in the appropriate general account asset line. Investment income and realized investment gains or losses from seed money invested in separate accounts accrues to the Company and is included in the Company's results of operations.
	Other Assets and Other Liabilities
	Other assets consist primarily of prepaid pension benefit costs, certain restricted assets, trade receivables, value of business acquired, goodwill and other intangible assets, DSI, the Company's investments in operating joint ventures, which include the Company's previously held indirect investment in China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. (“China Pacific Group”), property and equipment, reinsurance recoverables, and receivables resulting from sales of securities that had not yet settled at the balance sheet date. Other liabilities consist primarily of trade payables, pension and other employee benefit liabilities, derivative liabilities, reinsurance payables, and payables resulting from purchases of securities that had not yet settled at the balance sheet date.
	Property and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is determined using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which generally range from 3 to 40 years.
	As a result of certain acquisitions, the Company recognizes an asset for goodwill representing the excess of cost over the net fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. A reporting unit is an operating segment or a unit one level below the operating segment, if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management at that level. Once goodwill has been assigned to reporting units, it no longer retains its association with a particular acquisition, and all of the activities within a reporting unit, whether acquired or organically grown, are available to support the value of the goodwill.
	The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually as of December 31 and more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. The fundamental goodwill impairment analysis is a two-step test that is performed at the reporting unit level. The first step, used to identify potential impairment, involves comparing each reporting unit's fair value to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, the applicable goodwill is considered not to be impaired. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, there is an indication of a potential impairment and the second step of the test is performed to measure the amount of impairment.
	The second step involves calculating an implied fair value of goodwill for each reporting unit for which the first step indicated impairment. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination, which is the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit, as determined in the first step, over the aggregate fair values of the individual assets, liabilities and identifiable intangibles as if the reporting unit was being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of goodwill in the “pro forma” business combination accounting as described above exceeds the goodwill assigned to the reporting unit, there is no impairment. If the goodwill assigned to a reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment charge is recorded in “General and administrative expenses” for the excess. An impairment loss recognized cannot exceed the amount of goodwill assigned to a reporting unit, and the loss establishes a new basis in the goodwill. Subsequent reversal of goodwill impairment losses is not permitted. Management is required to make significant estimates in determining the fair value of a reporting unit including, but not limited to: projected earnings, comparative market multiples, and the risk rate at which future net cash flows are discounted.
	In accordance with accounting guidance, the Company may first perform a qualitative goodwill assessment to determine whether events or circumstances lead to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Factors such as macroeconomic conditions; industry and market considerations; cost factors and other are used to assess the validity of goodwill. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, the Company determines it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step goodwill impairment test, as described above, is not necessary. If, however, the Company concludes otherwise, then the Company must perform the first step of the two-step impairment test by comparing the reporting unit's fair value with its carrying value including goodwill. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, then the Company must perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to measure the impairment loss, if any.
	See Note 9 for additional information regarding goodwill.
	The Company offers various types of sales inducements to policyholders related to fixed and variable deferred annuity contracts. The Company defers sales inducements and amortizes them over the anticipated life of the policy using the same methodology and assumptions used to amortize DAC. Sales inducements balances are subject to periodic recoverability testing. The Company records amortization of DSI in “Interest credited to policyholders' account balances.” DSI, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. See Note 11 for additional information regarding sales inducements.
	The majority of the Company's reinsurance recoverables and payables are associated with the reinsurance arrangements used to effect the Company's acquisition of the retirement businesses of CIGNA and The Hartford's individual life business. The remaining amounts relate to other reinsurance arrangements entered into by the Company. For each of its reinsurance contracts, the Company determines if the contract provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. The Company reviews all contractual features, particularly those that may limit the amount of insurance risk to which the reinsurer is subject or features that delay the timely reimbursement of claims. See Note 13 for additional information about the Company's reinsurance arrangements.
	Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships and mortgage servicing rights and areIdentifiable intangible assets are recorded net of accumulated amortization. The Company tests identifiable intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as of December 31 of each year or whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying value of an identifiable intangible asset may exceed the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If this condition exists and the carrying value of an identifiable intangible asset exceeds its fair value, the excess is recognized as an impairment and is recorded as a charge against net income. Measuring intangibles requires the use of estimates. Significant estimates include the projected net cash flow attributable to the intangible asset and the risk rate at which future net cash flows are discounted for purposes of estimating fair value, as applicable. Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships and mortgage servicing rights. See Note 9 for additional information regarding identifiable intangible assets.
Investments in operating joint ventures are generally accounted for under the equity method. The carrying value of these investments is written down, or impaired, to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. See Note 7 for additional information on investments in operating joint ventures.
Future Policy Benefits
The Company's liability for future policy benefits is primarily comprised of the present value of estimated future payments to or on behalf of policyholders, where the timing and amount of payment depends on policyholder mortality or morbidity, less the present value of future net premiums. For individual traditional participating life insurance products, the mortality and interest rate assumptions applied are those used to calculate the policies' guaranteed cash surrender values. For life insurance, other than individual traditional participating life insurance, and annuity and disability products, expected mortality and morbidity are generally based on Company experience, industry data and/or other factors. Interest rate assumptions are based on factors such as market conditions and expected investment returns. Although mortality and morbidity and interest rate assumptions are “locked-in” upon the issuance of new insurance or annuity business with fixed and guaranteed terms, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require the Company to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves are established, if necessary, when the liability for future policy benefits plus the present value of expected future gross premiums are determined to be insufficient to provide for expected future policy benefits and expenses. Premium deficiency reserves do not include a provision for the risk of adverse deviation. In determining if a premium deficiency related to short-duration contracts exists, the Company considers, among other factors, anticipated investment income. Any adjustments to future policy benefit reserves related to net unrealized gains on securities classified as available-for-sale are included in AOCI. See Note 10 for additional information regarding future policy benefits.
The Company's liability for future policy benefits also includes a liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses. The Company does not establish claim liabilities until a loss has been incurred. However, unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses includes estimates of claims that the Company believes have been incurred but have not yet been reported as of the balance sheet date. The Company's liability for future policy benefits also includes net liabilities for guarantee benefits related to certain nontraditional long-duration life and annuity contracts, which are discussed more fully in Note 11, and deferred profits.
Policyholders' Account Balances
The Company's liability for policyholders' account balances represents the contract value that has accrued to the benefit of the policyholder as of the balance sheet date. This liability is primarily associated with the accumulated account deposits, plus interest credited, less policyholder withdrawals and other charges assessed against the account balance. These policyholders' account balances also include provision for benefits under non-life contingent payout annuities and certain unearned revenues. See Note 10 for additional information regarding policyholders' account balances.
Policyholders' Dividends
The Company's liability for policyholders' dividends includes its dividends payable to policyholders and its policyholder dividend obligation associated with the participating policies included in the Closed Block. The dividends payable for participating policies included in the Closed Block are determined at the end of each year for the following year by the Board of Directors of Prudential Insurance based on its statutory results, capital position, ratings, and the emerging experience of the Closed Block. The policyholder dividend obligation represents amounts expected to be paid to Closed Block policyholders as an additional policyholder dividend unless otherwise offset by future Closed Block performance. The policyholder dividend obligation also includes amounts relating to net unrealized gains on securities classified as available-for-sale. For additional information on the policyholder dividend obligation, see Note 12. The dividends payable for policies other than the participating policies included in the Closed Block include dividends payable in accordance with certain group and individual insurance policies.
Contingent Liabilities
Amounts related to contingent liabilities are accrued if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and an amount is reasonably estimable. Management evaluates whether there are incremental legal or other costs directly associated with the ultimate resolution of the matter that are reasonably estimable and, if so, they are included in the accrual.
Insurance Revenue and Expense Recognition
Premiums from individual life products, other than interest-sensitive and variable life contracts, and health insurance and long-term care products are recognized when due. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, any gross premium in excess of the net premium (i.e., the portion of the gross premium required to provide for all expected future benefits and expenses) is generally deferred and recognized into revenue in a constant relationship to insurance in force. Benefits are recorded as an expense when they are incurred. A liability for future policy benefits is recorded when premiums are recognized using the net level premium method.
Premiums from non-participating group annuities with life contingencies, single premium structured settlements with life contingencies and single premium immediate annuities with life contingencies are recognized when due. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, any gross premium in excess of the net premium is generally deferred and recognized into revenue in a constant relationship to the amount of expected future benefit payments. Benefits are recorded as an expense when they are incurred. A liability for future policy benefits is recorded when premiums are recognized using the net premium method.
Certain individual annuity contracts provide the contractholder a guarantee that the benefit received upon death or annuitization will be no less than a minimum prescribed amount. These benefits are accounted for as insurance contracts and are discussed in further detail in Note 11. The Company also provides contracts with certain living benefits which are considered embedded derivatives. These contracts are discussed in further detail in Note 11.
Amounts received as payment for interest-sensitive or variable group and individual life contracts, deferred fixed or variable annuities, structured settlements and other contracts without life contingencies, and participating group annuities are reported as deposits to “Policyholders' account balances”and/or “Separate account liabilities.” Revenues from these contracts are reflected in “Policy charges and fee income” consisting primarily of fees assessed during the period against the policyholders' account balances for mortality and other benefit charges, policy administration charges and surrender charges. In addition to fees, the Company earns investment income from the investment of deposits in the Company's general account portfolio. Fees assessed that represent compensation to the Company for services to be provided in future periods and certain other fees are generally deferred and amortized into revenue over the life of the related contracts in proportion to estimated gross profits. Benefits and expenses for these products include claims in excess of related account balances, expenses of contract administration, interest credited to policyholders' account balances and amortization of DAC, DSI and VOBA.
For group life, other than interest-sensitive and variable group life contracts, and disability insurance, premiums are generally recognized over the period to which the premiums relate in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided. Claim and claim adjustment expenses are recognized when incurred.
Premiums, benefits and expenses are stated net of reinsurance ceded to other companies, except for amounts associated with certain modified coinsurance contracts which are reflected in the Company's financial statements based on the application of the deposit method of accounting.
Asset Management and Service Fees
“Asset management and service fees” principally include asset management fees and securities commission revenues, which are recognized in the period in which the services are performed.
In 2013, the Company adopted retrospectively a discretionary change in accounting principle for recognition of performance based incentive fee revenue. In certain asset management fee arrangements, the Company is entitled to receive performance based incentive fees when the return on assets under management exceeds certain benchmark returns or other performance targets. The Company may be required to return all, or part, of such performance based incentive fee depending on future performance of these assets relative to performance benchmarks. Under the newly adopted accounting principle, the Company records performance based incentive fee revenue when the contractual terms of the asset management fee arrangement have been satisfied such that the performance fee is no longer subject to clawback or contingency. Under this principle the Company records a deferred performance based incentive fee liability to the extent it receives cash related to the performance based incentive fee prior to meeting the revenue recognition criteria delineated above.
Under the prior accounting principle, the Company accrued performance based incentive fee revenue quarterly based on measuring fund performance to date versus the performance benchmark stated in the investment management agreement, as if the contracts containing the fee arrangements were terminated as of the applicable balance sheet date. Certain performance based incentive fees were also subject to future adjustment based on cumulative fund performance in relation to these specified benchmarks.
The new method is recognized as preferable in authoritative accounting literature. In addition, the Company believes that the new method improves the quality of earnings by eliminating the potential that revenue will be recognized in one quarter and reversed in a future quarter. Finally, the Company believes that the new accounting principle provides a more meaningful comparison to competitors.
Other Income
“Other income” includes realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments classified as “trading” such as “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” and “Other trading account assets,” short-term investments that are marked-to-market through other income, and from consolidated entities that follow specialized investment company fair value accounting.
“Other income” also includes losses of $3.0 billion, $4.1 billion and $1.8 billion for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, primarily related to the remeasurement of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities, as discussed in more detail under “Foreign Currency” below.
Foreign Currency
Assets and liabilities of foreign operations and subsidiaries reported in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated at the exchange rate in effect at the end of the period. Revenues, benefits and other expenses are translated at the average rate prevailing during the period. The effects of translating the statements of operations and financial position of non-U.S. entities with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar are included, net of related qualifying hedge gains and losses and income taxes, in AOCI. Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign currency transactions are reported in either AOCI or current earnings in “Other income” depending on the nature of the related foreign currency denominated asset or liability.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are derived from interest rates, foreign exchange rates, financial indices, values of securities or commodities, credit spreads, market volatility, expected returns, and liquidity. Values can also be affected by changes in estimates and assumptions, including those related to counterparty behavior and non-performance risk used in valuation models. Derivative financial instruments generally used by the Company include swaps, futures, forwards and options and may be exchange-traded or contracted in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market. Derivative positions are carried at fair value, generally by obtaining quoted market prices or through the use of valuation models.
Derivatives are used to manage the interest rate and currency characteristics of assets or liabilities and to mitigate volatility of expected non-U.S. earnings and net investments in foreign operations resulting from changes in currency exchange rates. Additionally, derivatives may be used to seek to reduce exposure to interest rate, credit, foreign currency and equity risks associated with assets held or expected to be purchased or sold, and liabilities incurred or expected to be incurred. As discussed in detail below and in Note 21, all realized and unrealized changes in fair value of derivatives are recorded in current earnings, with the exception of the effective portion of cash flow hedges and effective hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Cash flows from derivatives are reported in the operating, investing, or financing activities sections in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows based on the nature and purpose of the derivative.
Derivatives are recorded either as assets, within “Other trading account assets, at fair value” or “Other long-term investments,” or as liabilities, within “Other liabilities,” except for embedded derivatives which are recorded with the associated host contract. The Company nets the fair value of all derivative financial instruments with counterparties for which a master netting arrangement has been executed.
The Company designates derivatives as either (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value” hedge); (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow” hedge); (3) a foreign-currency fair value or cash flow hedge (“foreign currency” hedge); (4) a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation; or (5) a derivative that does not qualify for hedge accounting.
To qualify for hedge accounting treatment, a derivative must be highly effective in mitigating the designated risk of the hedged item. Effectiveness of the hedge is formally assessed at inception and throughout the life of the hedging relationship. Even if a derivative qualifies for hedge accounting treatment, there may be an element of ineffectiveness of the hedge. Under such circumstances, the ineffective portion is recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.”
The Company formally documents at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives designated as fair value, cash flow, or foreign currency hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation are linked to the specific foreign operation.
When a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value, along with changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability (including losses or gains on firm commitments), are reported on a net basis in the income statement, generally in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” When swaps are used in hedge accounting relationships, periodic settlements are recorded in the same income statement line as the related settlements of the hedged items.
When a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value are recorded in AOCI until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows being hedged (e.g., when periodic settlements on a variable-rate asset or liability are recorded in earnings). At that time, the related portion of deferred gains or losses on the derivative instrument is reclassified and reported in the income statement line item associated with the hedged item.
When a derivative is designated as a foreign currency hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value are recorded either in current period earnings if the hedge transaction is a fair value hedge (e.g., a hedge of a recognized foreign currency asset or liability) or in AOCI if the hedge transaction is a cash flow hedge (e.g., a foreign currency denominated forecasted transaction). When a derivative is used as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, its change in fair value, to the extent effective as a hedge, is recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account within AOCI.
If it is determined that a derivative no longer qualifies as an effective fair value or cash flow hedge or management removes the hedge designation, the derivative will continue to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, with changes in fair value recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” In this scenario, the hedged asset or liability under a fair value hedge will no longer be adjusted for changes in fair value and the existing basis adjustment is amortized to the income statement line associated with the asset or liability. The component of AOCI related to discontinued cash flow hedges is reclassified to the income statement line associated with the hedged cash flows consistent with the earnings impact of the original hedged cash flows.
When hedge accounting is discontinued because the hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment, or because it is probable that the forecasted transaction will not occur by the end of the specified time period, the derivative will continue to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, with changes in fair value recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Any asset or liability that was recorded pursuant to recognition of the firm commitment is removed from the balance sheet and recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Gains and losses that were in AOCI pursuant to the hedge of a forecasted transaction are recognized immediately in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.”
If a derivative does not qualify for hedge accounting, all changes in its fair value, including net receipts and payments, are included in “Realized investment gains (losses), net” without considering changes in the fair value of the economically associated assets or liabilities.
The Company is a party to financial instruments that contain derivative instruments that are “embedded” in the financial instruments. At inception, the Company assesses whether the economic characteristics of the embedded instrument are clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the remaining component of the financial instrument (i.e., the host contract) and whether a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded instrument would meet the definition of a derivative instrument. When it is determined that (1) the embedded instrument possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and (2) a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded instrument qualifies as an embedded derivative that is separated from the host contract, carried at fair value, and changes in its fair value are included in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” For certain financial instruments that contain an embedded derivative that otherwise would need to be bifurcated and reported at fair value, the Company may elect to classify the entire instrument as a trading account asset and report it within “Other trading account assets, at fair value.”
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
Liabilities for short-term and long-term debt are primarily carried at an amount equal to unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized discount or premium. Original-issue discount or premium and debt-issue costs are recognized as a component of interest expense over the period the debt is expected to be outstanding, using the interest method of amortization. Short-term debt is debt coming due in the next twelve months, including that portion of debt otherwise classified as long-term. The short-term debt caption may exclude short-term debt items the Company intends to refinance on a long-term basis in the near term. See Note 14 for additional information regarding short-term and long-term debt.
Income Taxes
The Company and its includible domestic subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return that includes both life insurance companies and non-life insurance companies. Non-includible domestic subsidiaries file separate individual corporate tax returns. Subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. are taxed, and income tax expense is recorded, based on applicable foreign statutes. See Note 19 for a discussion of certain non-U.S. jurisdictions for which the Company assumes repatriation of earnings to the U.S.
Deferred income taxes are recognized, based on enacted rates, when assets and liabilities have different values for financial statement and tax reporting purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce a deferred tax asset to the amount expected to be realized.
Items required by tax regulations to be included in the tax return may differ from the items reflected in the financial statements. As a result, the effective tax rate reflected in the financial statements may be different than the actual rate applied on the tax return. Some of these differences are permanent such as expenses that are not deductible in the Company's tax return, and some differences are temporary, reversing over time, such as valuation of insurance reserves. Temporary differences create deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in future years for which the Company has already recorded the tax benefit in the Company's income statement. Deferred tax liabilities generally represent tax expense recognized in the Company's financial statements for which payment has been deferred, or expenditures for which the Company has already taken a deduction in the Company's tax return but have not yet been recognized in the Company's financial statements.
The application of U.S. GAAP requires the Company to evaluate the recoverability of the Company's deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if necessary to reduce the Company's deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized. Considerable judgment is required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance the Company may consider many factors, including: (1) the nature of the deferred tax assets and liabilities; (2) whether they are ordinary or capital; (3) in which tax jurisdictions they were generated and the timing of their reversal; (4) taxable income in prior carryback years as well as projected taxable earnings exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; (5) the length of time that carryovers can be utilized in the various taxing jurisdictions; (6) any unique tax rules that would impact the utilization of the deferred tax assets; and (7) any tax planning strategies that the Company would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances, will be realized.
U.S. GAAP prescribes a comprehensive model for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that a company has taken or expects to take on tax returns. The application of this guidance is a two-step process, the first step being recognition. The Company determines whether it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be sustained upon examination. If a tax position does not meet the more likely than not recognition threshold, the benefit of that position is not recognized in the financial statements. The second step is measurement. The Company measures the tax position as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate resolution with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. This measurement considers the amounts and probabilities of the outcomes that could be realized upon ultimate settlement using the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date.
The Company's liability for income taxes includes the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties which relate to tax years still subject to review by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) or other taxing jurisdictions. Audit periods remain open for review until the statute of limitations has passed. Generally, for tax years which produce net operating losses, capital losses or tax credit carryforwards (“tax attributes”), the statute of limitations does not close, to the extent of these tax attributes, until the expiration of the statute of limitations for the tax year in which they are fully utilized. The completion of review or the expiration of the statute of limitations for a given audit period could result in an adjustment to the liability for income taxes. The Company classifies all interest and penalties related to tax uncertainties as income tax expense. See Note 19 for additional information regarding income taxes.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued updated guidance establishing a single definition of a public entity for use in financial accounting and reporting guidance. This new guidance is effective for all current and future reporting periods and did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In July 2013, the FASB issued new guidance regarding derivatives. The guidance permits the Fed Funds Effective Swap Rate (or Overnight Index Swap Rate) to be used as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting in addition to the United States Treasury rate and London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). The guidance also removes the restriction on using different benchmark rates for similar hedges. The guidance is effective for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after July 17, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In July 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards exist. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In June 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance clarifying the characteristics of an investment company and requiring new disclosures. Under the guidance, all entities regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940 automatically qualify as investment companies, while all other entities need to consider both the fundamental and typical characteristics of an investment company in determining whether they qualify as investment companies. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In March 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the recognition in net income of the cumulative translation adjustment upon the sale or loss of control of a business or group of assets residing in a foreign subsidiary, or a loss of control of a foreign investment. This guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. The amendments require an entity that ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity to release any related cumulative translation adjustment into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary or group of assets had resided. For an equity method investment that is a foreign entity, the partial sale guidance still applies. As such, a pro rata portion of the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income upon a partial sale of such an equity method investment. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In February 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the presentation of comprehensive income. Under the guidance, an entity is required to separately present information about significant items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component as well as changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances by component in either the financial statements or the notes to the financial statements. The guidance does not change the items that are reported in other comprehensive income, does not change when an item of other comprehensive income must be reclassified to net income, and does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income. The guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2012, and was applied prospectively. The disclosures required by this guidance are included in Note 7.
In December 2011 and January 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the disclosure of recognized derivative instruments (including bifurcated embedded derivatives), repurchase agreements and securities borrowing/lending transactions that are offset in the statement of financial position or are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement (irrespective of whether they are offset in the statement of financial position). This new guidance requires an entity to disclose information on both a gross and net basis about instruments and transactions within the scope of this guidance. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began on or after January 1, 2013, and was applied retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. The disclosures required by this guidance are included in Note 14.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2015, the FASB issued updated guidance that changes the rules regarding consolidation.  The pronouncement eliminates specialized guidance for limited partnerships and similar legal entities, and removes the indefinite deferral for certain investment funds. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
In January 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding investments in flow-through limited liability entities that manage or invest in affordable housing projects that qualify for the low-income housing tax credit. Under the guidance, an entity is permitted to make an accounting policy election to amortize the initial cost of its investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognize the net investment performance in the statement of operations as a component of income tax expense (benefit) if certain conditions are met. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, and should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In January 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance for troubled debt restructurings clarifying when an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and when a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. This guidance can be elected for prospective adoption or by using a modified retrospective transition method. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In April 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance that changes the criteria for reporting discontinued operations and introduces new disclosures. The new guidance is effective prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale that occur within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted for new disposals or new classifications as held for sale that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued or available for issuance. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
In May 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance on accounting for revenue recognition. The guidance is based on the core principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The guidance also requires additional disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from cost incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. Revenue recognition for insurance contracts is explicitly scoped out of the guidance. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2016, and must be applied using one of two retrospective application methods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
In August 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance for measuring the financial assets and the financial liabilities of a consolidated collateralized financing entity. Under the guidance, an entity within scope is permitted to measure both the financial assets and financial liabilities of a consolidated collateralized financing entity based on either the fair value of the financial assets or the financial liabilities, whichever is more observable. If elected, the guidance will eliminate the measurement difference that exists when both are measured at fair value. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption will be permitted. This guidance can be elected for modified retrospective or full retrospective adoption. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance requiring that mortgage loans be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if certain conditions are met. Upon foreclosure, the separate other receivable should be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) expected to be recovered from the guarantor. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. This guidance can be adopted using either a prospective transition method or a modified retrospective transition method. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or financial statement disclosures.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract]
Mergers Acquisitions And Dispositions	3. ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
	Acquisition of Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones Habitat S.A.
	On October 28, 2014, the Company announced that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Inversiones La Construcción S.A. (“ILC”), the investment subsidiary of the Chilean Construction Chamber, to acquire an indirect ownership interest in Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones Habitat S.A. (“AFP Habitat”), a leading provider of retirement services in Chile. The Company expects to acquire indirectly between approximately 34% and 40% of AFP Habitat from ILC, depending on the results of a pre-closing partial tender offer by ILC to acquire additional shares of AFP Habitat from public shareholders. The Company would acquire its indirect interest in the AFP Habitat shares from subsidiaries of ILC for 925 Chilean pesos per share, for a total purchase price of approximately $530 million to $620 million at current exchange rates as of October 28, 2014. It is expected that the transaction would result in equal ownership positions for the Company and ILC, with a controlling stake in AFP Habitat held through a joint holding company. The transaction, which is subject to certain conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the first half of 2015. This acquisition will enable the Company to participate in the growing Chilean pension market.
	Acquisition of UniAsia Life Assurance
	On January 2, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of UniAsia Life Assurance Berhad, an established life insurance company in Malaysia, through the formation of a joint venture with Bank Simpanan Nasional (“BSN”), a bank owned by the Malaysian government. The joint venture paid cash consideration of $158 million, 70% of which was provided by Prudential Insurance and 30% of which was provided by BSN. This acquisition is part of the Company's strategic initiative to further expand its business in Southeast Asian markets. Subsequent to the acquisition, the Company renamed the acquired company Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad.
	The assets acquired and the liabilities assumed have been included in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements as of the acquisition date. After adjustments, total assets acquired were $744 million, including $88 million of cash and cash equivalents and $19 million of goodwill, none of which is deductible for local tax purposes, and the total liabilities assumed were $586 million.
	Prudential Financial intends to make a Section 338(g) election under the Internal Revenue Code with respect to this acquisition, resulting in the acquired entity being treated for U.S. tax purposes as a newly-incorporated company. Under such election, the U.S. tax basis of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of UniAsia Life Assurance Berhad was adjusted as of January 2, 2014, to reflect the consequences of the Section 338(g) election.
	Acquisition of The Hartford's Individual Life Insurance Business
	On January 2, 2013, the Company acquired The Hartford Financial Services Group's (“The Hartford”) individual life insurance business through a reinsurance transaction. Under the agreement, the Company paid The Hartford cash consideration of $615 million, primarily in the form of a ceding commission to provide reinsurance for approximately 700,000 life insurance policies with net retained face amount in force of approximately $141 billion. The acquisition increased the Company's scale in the U.S. individual life insurance market, particularly universal life products, and provides complementary distribution opportunities through expanded wirehouse and bank distribution channels.
	The assets acquired and liabilities assumed have been included in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements as of the acquisition date. Total assets acquired were $11.2 billion, including $1.4 billion of value of business acquired and $0.1 billion of cash, and total liabilities assumed were $10.6 billion. There is no goodwill, including tax deductible goodwill, associated with the acquisition.
	Sale of Wealth Management Solutions Business
	In April 2013, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its wealth management solutions business to Envestnet Inc. The transaction, which does not have a material impact to the Company's financial results, closed on July 1, 2013. Due to the existence of an ongoing contractual relationship between the Company and these operations, this disposition did not qualify for discontinued operations accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP.
	Discontinued Operations
	Income from discontinued operations, including charges upon disposition, for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
				2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Real estate investments sold or held for sale(1)			$	18	$	9	$	22
	Global commodities business				1		1		0
	Other				-1		0		1
		Income from discontinued operations before income taxes			18		10		23
			Income tax expense		6		3		8
		Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes		$	12	$	7	$	15
	Reflects the income from discontinued real estate investments.
	Charges recorded in connection with the disposals of businesses include estimates that are subject to subsequent adjustment.
	The Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position include total assets and total liabilities related to discontinued operations as follows:
				31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
					(in millions)
	Total assets			$	5	$	15
	Total liabilities			$	5	$	7

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	4. INVESTMENTS
	Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities
	The following tables provide information relating to fixed maturities and equity securities (excluding investments classified as trading) as of the dates indicated:
						31-Dec-14
																		Other-than-
									Gross			Gross						temporary
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair			Impairments
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value			in AOCI(3)
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S.
		government authorities and agencies				$	15,807		$	4,321		$	5		$	20,123		$	0
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions					5,720			814			3			6,531			0
	Foreign government bonds						69,894			11,164			117			80,941			-1
	Corporate securities						143,631			17,799			1,054			160,376			-6
	Asset-backed securities(1)						10,966			353			134			11,185			-592
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,486			430			39			13,877			-1
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						5,612			448			3			6,057			-5
			Total fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	265,116		$	35,329		$	1,355		$	299,090		$	-605
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					$	6,921		$	3,023		$	83		$	9,861
						31-Dec-14
									Gross			Gross
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
	Foreign government bonds					$	821		$	184		$	0		$	1,005
	Corporate securities(4)						713			68			1			780
	Asset-backed securities(1)						0			0			0			0
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						78			7			0			85
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						963			69			0			1,032
		Total fixed maturities, held-to-maturity(4)				$	2,575		$	328		$	1		$	2,902
	(1)       Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
	(2)       Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	(3)       Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $954 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
	(4)       Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
						December 31, 2013(5)
																		Other-than-
									Gross			Gross						temporary
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair			Impairments
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value			in AOCI(3)
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S.
		government authorities and agencies				$	13,754		$	1,742		$	96		$	15,400		$	0
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions					3,598			274			137			3,735			0
	Foreign government bonds						75,595			7,459			266			82,788			1
	Corporate securities						145,091			12,095			3,408			153,778			-4
	Asset-backed securities(1)						10,370			203			315			10,258			-755
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,633			403			163			13,873			0
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						6,686			390			42			7,034			-7
			Total fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	268,727		$	22,566		$	4,427		$	286,866		$	-765
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					$	7,003		$	2,931		$	24		$	9,910
						December 31, 2013(5)
									Gross			Gross
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
	Foreign government bonds					$	938		$	117		$	0		$	1,055
	Corporate securities(4)						904			50			24			930
	Asset-backed securities(1)						1			0			0			1
Commercial mortgage-backed securities						166			18			0			184
Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						1,303			80			0			1,383
	Total fixed maturities, held-to-maturity(4)				$	3,312		$	265		$	24		$	3,553
Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans, and other asset types.
Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $875 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
Excludes notes with amortized cost of $2,400 million (fair value, $2,461 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
Prior period's amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities by contractual maturities at December 31, 2014, are as follows:
					Available-for-Sale						Held-to-Maturity
					Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
					Cost			Value			Cost			Value
					(in millions)
Due in one year or less					$	8,596		$	9,176		$	0		$	0
Due after one year through five years						47,442			52,944			46			50
Due after five years through ten years						58,047			64,974			199			211
Due after ten years(1)						120,967			140,877			1,289			1,524
Asset-backed securities						10,966			11,185			0			0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,486			13,877			78			85
Residential mortgage-backed securities						5,612			6,057			963			1,032
	Total				$	265,116		$	299,090		$	2,575		$	2,902
Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations. Asset-backed, commercial mortgage-backed, and residential mortgage-backed securities are shown separately in the table above, as they are not due at a single maturity date.
The following table depicts the sources of fixed maturity proceeds and related investment gains (losses), as well as losses on impairments of both fixed maturities and equity securities:
					2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
		Proceeds from sales			$	28,359		$	37,248		$	15,919
		Proceeds from maturities/repayments				21,040			23,573			21,897
		Gross investment gains from sales, prepayments, and maturities				1,664			1,571			659
		Gross investment losses from sales and maturities				-414			-1,465			-359
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
		Gross investment gains from prepayments			$	0		$	0		$	0
		Proceeds from maturities/repayments				415			583			530
Equity securities, available-for-sale
		Proceeds from sales			$	4,993		$	4,235		$	4,189
		Gross investment gains from sales				676			554			422
		Gross investment losses from sales				-132			-94			-273
Fixed maturity and equity security impairments
		Net writedowns for other-than-temporary impairment losses on
			fixed maturities recognized in earnings(1)		$	-56		$	-200		$	-337
		Writedowns for impairments on equity securities				-32			-15			-125
Excludes the portion of other-than-temporary impairments recorded in “Other comprehensive income (loss),” representing any difference between the fair value of the impaired debt security and the net present value of its projected future cash flows at the time of impairment.
As discussed in Note 2, a portion of certain other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses on fixed maturity securities are recognized in “Other comprehensive income (loss)” (“OCI”). For these securities, the net amount recognized in earnings (“credit loss impairments”) represents the difference between the amortized cost of the security and the net present value of its projected future cash flows discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security prior to impairment. Any remaining difference between the fair value and amortized cost is recognized in OCI. The following table sets forth the amount of pre-tax credit loss impairments on fixed maturity securities held by the Company as of the dates indicated, for which a portion of the OTTI loss was recognized in OCI, and the corresponding changes in such amounts.
				Year Ended December 31,
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Balance, beginning of period				$	968		$	1,166
Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities which matured, paid down,
	prepaid or were sold during the period				-230			-314
Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities impaired to fair value during
	the period(1)				-6			-4
Credit loss impairment recognized in the current period on securities not previously impaired					16			9
Additional credit loss impairments recognized in the current period on securities
	previously impaired				6			74
Increases due to the passage of time on previously recorded credit losses					42			52
Accretion of credit loss impairments previously recognized due to an increase in
	cash flows expected to be collected				-15			-15
Balance, end of period				$	781		$	968
(1)        Represents circumstances where the Company determined in the current period that it intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the security's amortized cost.
Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities
The following table sets forth the composition of “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” as of the dates indicated:
				31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
				Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
				Cost			Value			Cost			Value
				(in millions)
Short-term investments and cash equivalents				$	196		$	196		$	697		$	697
Fixed maturities:
	Corporate securities				11,922			12,439			12,109			12,616
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities				2,505			2,546			2,417			2,441
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(1)				1,640			1,676			1,857			1,830
	Asset-backed securities(2)				1,180			1,198			1,096			1,107
	Foreign government bonds				621			650			579			596
	U.S. government authorities and agencies and obligations of U.S. states				303			372			303			341
Total fixed maturities					18,171			18,881			18,361			18,931
Equity securities					896			1,186			913			1,199
Total trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities				$	19,263		$	20,263		$	19,971		$	20,827
Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
The net change in unrealized gains (losses) from trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities still held at period end, recorded within “Other income” was $144 million, $(485) million and $689 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Other Trading Account Assets
The following table sets forth the composition of the “Other trading account assets” as of the dates indicated:
					31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
					Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
					Cost			Value			Cost			Value
				(in millions)
Short-term investments and cash equivalents					$	27		$	27		$	105		$	106
Fixed maturities						8,306			8,282			4,653			4,723
Equity securities						992			1,105			1,051			1,177
Other						7			11			3			7
	Subtotal				$	9,332			9,425		$	5,812			6,013
Derivative instruments									1,449						440
Total other trading account assets								$	10,874					$	6,453
The net change in unrealized gains (losses) from other trading account assets, excluding derivative instruments, still held at period end, recorded within “Other income” was $(108) million, $188 million and $264 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Concentrations of Financial Instruments
The Company monitors its concentrations of financial instruments on an on-going basis, and mitigates credit risk by maintaining a diversified investment portfolio which limits exposure to any one issuer.
As of both December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company's exposure to concentrations of credit risk of single issuers greater than 10% of the Company's stockholders' equity included securities of the U.S. government, certain U.S. government agencies and certain securities guaranteed by the U.S. government, as well as the securities disclosed below.
					31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
					Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
					Cost			Value			Cost			Value
Investments in Japanese government and government				(in millions)
		agency securities:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale					$	52,703		$	60,379		$	59,775		$	65,389
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity						801			981			916			1,032
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities						457			470			451			458
Other trading account assets						36			36			38			39
Short-term investments						0			0			0			0
Cash equivalents						0			0			107			107
	Total				$	53,997		$	61,866		$	61,287		$	67,025
Investments in South Korean government and government
		agency securities:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale					$	6,927		$	8,438		$	6,672		$	7,277
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity						0			0			0			0
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities						49			50			61			61
Other trading account assets						0			0			0			0
Short-term investments						0			0			0			0
Cash equivalents						0			0			0			0
		Total			$	6,976		$	8,488		$	6,733		$	7,338
Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans
The Company's commercial mortgage and other loans are comprised as follows, as of the dates indicated:
					31-Dec-14							31-Dec-13
					Amount			% of				Amount			% of
					(in millions)			Total				(in millions)			Total
Commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by property type:
Office					$	9,612			21.5	%		$	7,762			19.9	%
Retail						8,765			19.6				8,698			22.3
Apartments/Multi-Family						10,369			23.2				7,492			19.2
Industrial						7,628			16.9				7,390			18.9
Hospitality						2,270			5.1				2,050			5.2
Other						3,659			8.2				3,464			8.9
Total commercial mortgage loans						42,303			94.5				36,856			94.4
Agricultural property loans						2,445			5.5				2,183			5.6
Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by property type						44,748			100	%			39,039			100	%
Valuation allowance						-105							-195
Total net commercial mortgage and agricultural loans by property type						44,643							38,844
Other loans
Uncollateralized loans						1,092							1,306
Residential property loans						392							544
Other collateralized loans						319							335
Total other loans						1,803							2,185
Valuation allowance						-14							-21
Total net other loans						1,789							2,164
Total commercial mortgage and other loans(1)					$	46,432						$	41,008
Includes loans held at fair value.
The commercial mortgage and agricultural property loans are geographically dispersed throughout the United States, Canada and Asia with the largest concentrations in California (26%), New York (9%) and Texas (9%) at December 31, 2014.
Activity in the allowance for losses for all commercial mortgage and other loans, as of the dates indicated, is as follows:
					Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
					Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
					Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
					(in millions)
Allowance for losses, beginning of year, 2013					$	209		$	20		$	11		$	12		$	17		$	269
Addition to / (release of) allowance of losses						12			-7			-3			-9			-2			-9
Charge-offs, net of recoveries						-33			-6			0			0			0			-39
Change in foreign exchange						0			0			-2			0			-3			-5
		Total Ending Balance, 2013			$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
					Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
					Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
					Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
					(in millions)
Allowance for losses, beginning of year, 2014					$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
Addition to / (release of) allowance of losses						-77			-6			-1			-1			-2			-87
Charge-offs, net of recoveries						-7			0			0			-2			0			-9
Change in foreign exchange						0			0			0			0			-1			-1
		Total Ending Balance, 2014			$	104		$	1		$	5		$	0		$	9		$	119
The following tables set forth the allowance for credit losses and the recorded investment in commercial mortgage and other loans as of the dates indicated:
					31-Dec-14
					Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
					Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
					Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
Allowance for Credit Losses:					(in millions)
Individually evaluated for impairment					$	8		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	8
Collectively evaluated for impairment						96			1			5			0			9			111
Loans acquired with
	deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
		Total ending balance			$	104		$	1		$	5		$	0		$	9		$	119
Recorded Investment:(1)
Gross of reserves:
	individually evaluated for impairment				$	336		$	4		$	0		$	1		$	2		$	343
Gross of reserves:
	collectively evaluated for impairment					41,967			2,441			392			318			1,090			46,208
Gross of reserves: loans
	acquired with deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
		Total ending balance, gross of reserves			$	42,303		$	2,445		$	392		$	319		$	1,092		$	46,551
Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
					31-Dec-13
					Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
					Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
					Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
Allowance for Credit Losses:					(in millions)
Individually evaluated for impairment					$	16		$	0		$	0		$	3		$	0		$	19
Collectively evaluated for impairment						172			7			6			0			12			197
Loans acquired with
	deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
		Total ending balance			$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
Recorded Investment:(1)
Gross of reserves:
	individually evaluated for impairment				$	429		$	5		$	0		$	7		$	2		$	443
Gross of reserves:
	collectively evaluated for impairment					36,427			2,178			544			328			1,304			40,781
Gross of reserves: loans
	acquired with deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
		Total ending balance, gross of reserves			$	36,856		$	2,183		$	544		$	335		$	1,306		$	41,224
Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
Impaired loans include those loans for which it is probable that all amounts due will not be collected according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Impaired commercial mortgage and other loans identified in management's specific review of probable loan losses and the related allowance for losses, for the years ended:
					31-Dec-14
															Average
															Recorded
								Unpaid							Investment			Interest
					Recorded			Principal			Related				Before			Income
					Investment(1)			Balance			Allowance				Allowance(2)			Recognized(3)
					(in millions)
With no related allowance recorded:
Commercial mortgage loans					$	8		$	8		$	0		$	16		$	1
Agricultural property loans						4			4			0			4			0
Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
Uncollateralized loans						0			1			0			0			0
Total with no related allowance					$	12		$	13		$	0		$	20		$	1
With an allowance recorded:
Commercial mortgage loans					$	76		$	76		$	8		$	82		$	6
Agricultural property loans						0			0			0			0			0
Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			3			1
Uncollateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
Total with related allowance					$	76		$	76		$	8		$	85		$	7
Total:
	Commercial mortgage loans				$	84		$	84		$	8		$	98		$	7
	Agricultural property loans					4			4			0			4			0
	Residential property loans					0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans					0			0			0			3			1
	Uncollateralized loans					0			1			0			0			0
Total					$	88		$	89		$	8		$	105		$	8
Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances.
The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairment occurred.
					31-Dec-13
															Average
															Recorded
								Unpaid							Investment			Interest
					Recorded			Principal			Related				Before			Income
					Investment(1)			Balance			Allowance				Allowance(2)			Recognized(3)
					(in millions)
With no related allowance recorded:
Commercial mortgage loans					$	33		$	33		$	0		$	30		$	1
Agricultural property loans						5			5			0			2			0
Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
Uncollateralized loans						0			2			0			0			0
Total with no related allowance					$	38		$	40		$	0		$	32		$	1
With an allowance recorded:
Commercial mortgage loans					$	54		$	55		$	16		$	121		$	1
Agricultural property loans						0			0			0			10			0
Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
Other collateralized loans						5			5			3			8			3
Uncollateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
Total with related allowance					$	59		$	60		$	19		$	139		$	4
Total:
	Commercial mortgage loans				$	87		$	88		$	16		$	151		$	2
	Agricultural property loans					5			5			0			12			0
	Residential property loans					0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans					5			5			3			8			3
	Uncollateralized loans					0			2			0			0			0
Total					$	97		$	100		$	19		$	171		$	5
Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances.
The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairments occurred.
The net carrying value of commercial and other loans held for sale by the Company as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, was $380 million and $158 million, respectively. In all these transactions, the Company pre-arranges that it will sell the loan to an investor. As of both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, all of the Company's commercial and other loans held for sale were collateralized, with collateral primarily consisting of apartment complexes.
The following tables set forth certain key credit quality indicators as of December 31, 2014, based upon the recorded investment gross of allowance for credit losses.
Commercial mortgage loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	22,557		$	637		$	207		$	23,401
60%-69.99%						12,563			500			237			13,300
70%-79.99%						4,354			664			21			5,039
Greater than 80%						234			127			202			563
Total commercial mortgage loans					$	39,708		$	1,928		$	667		$	42,303
Agricultural property loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	2,152		$	140		$	2		$	2,294
60%-69.99%						151			0			0			151
70%-79.99%						0			0			0			0
Greater than 80%						0			0			0			0
Total agricultural property loans					$	2,303		$	140		$	2		$	2,445
Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	24,709		$	777		$	209		$	25,695
60%-69.99%						12,714			500			237			13,451
70%-79.99%						4,354			664			21			5,039
Greater than 80%						234			127			202			563
	Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans				$	42,011		$	2,068		$	669		$	44,748
The following tables set forth certain key credit quality indicators as of December 31, 2013, based upon the recorded investment gross of allowance for credit losses.
Commercial mortgage loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	19,089		$	597		$	179		$	19,865
60%-69.99%						11,101			379			95			11,575
70%-79.99%						4,005			422			216			4,643
Greater than 80%						325			173			275			773
Total commercial mortgage loans					$	34,520		$	1,571		$	765		$	36,856
Agricultural property loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	2,023		$	137		$	0		$	2,160
60%-69.99%						23			0			0			23
70%-79.99%						0			0			0			0
Greater than 80%						0			0			0			0
Total agricultural property loans					$	2,046		$	137		$	0		$	2,183
Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans
					Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
					Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
0%-59.99%					$	21,112		$	734		$	179		$	22,025
60%-69.99%						11,124			379			95			11,598
70%-79.99%						4,005			422			216			4,643
Greater than 80%						325			173			275			773
	Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans				$	36,566		$	1,708		$	765		$	39,039
The following tables provide an aging of past due commercial mortgage and other loans as of the dates indicated, based upon the recorded investment gross of allowance for credit losses, as well as the amount of commercial mortgage loans on nonaccrual status as of the dates indicated.
						31-Dec-14
																							Total
									30-59			60-89			Greater			Greater					Commercial
									Days			Days			Than 90			Than 90			Total		Mortgage		Non
									Past			Past			Days -			Days - Not			Past		and Other		Accrual
						Current			Due			Due			Accruing			Accruing			Due		Loans		Status
						(in millions)
Commercial mortgage loans						$	42,239		$	62		$	0		$	0		$	2		$	64	$	42,303	$	101
Agricultural property loans							2,443			0			1			0			1			2		2,445		1
Residential property loans							375			7			2			0			8			17		392		8
Other collateralized loans							319			0			0			0			0			0		319		0
Uncollateralized loans							1,092			0			0			0			0			0		1,092		0
			Total			$	46,468		$	69		$	3		$	0		$	11		$	83	$	46,551	$	110
						31-Dec-13
																							Total
									30-59			60-89			Greater			Greater					Commercial
									Days			Days			Than 90			Than 90			Total		Mortgage		Non
									Past			Past			Days -			Days - Not			Past		and Other		Accrual
						Current			Due			Due			Accruing			Accruing			Due		Loans		Status
						(in millions)
Commercial mortgage loans						$	36,821		$	16		$	0		$	0		$	19		$	35	$	36,856	$	154
Agricultural property loans							2,182			0			0			0			1			1		2,183		2
Residential property loans							520			11			3			0			10			24		544		10
Other collateralized loans							334			0			0			0			1			1		335		5
Uncollateralized loans							1,306			0			0			0			0			0		1,306		2
			Total			$	41,163		$	27		$	3		$	0		$	31		$	61	$	41,224	$	173
See Note 2 for further discussion regarding nonaccrual status loans.
For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were $0 million and $718 million of commercial mortgage and other loans acquired, other than those through direct origination. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were $25 million and $93 million of commercial mortgage and other loans sold, other than those classified as held-for-sale.
The Company's commercial mortgage and other loans may occasionally be involved in a troubled debt restructuring. As of both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company had no significant commitments to fund to borrowers that have been involved in a troubled debt restructuring.
For the year ended December 31, 2014 there were no new troubled debt restructurings related to commercial mortgage and other loans, and no payment defaults on commercial mortgage and other loans that were modified as a troubled debt restructuring within the 12 months preceding.
For the year ended December 31, 2013 there was an adjusted pre-modification outstanding recorded investment of $117 million and post-modification outstanding recorded investment of $114 million related to commercial mortgage loans. There were no payment defaults on commercial mortgage and other loans that were modified as a troubled debt restructuring within the 12 months preceding. See Note 2 for additional information relating to the accounting for troubled debt restructurings.
Other Long-Term Investments
The following table sets forth the composition of “Other long-term investments” at December 31 for the years indicated.
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
Joint ventures and limited partnerships:
		Real estate-related			$	1,018		$	1,104
		Non-real estate-related				6,527			6,141
	Total joint ventures and limited partnerships					7,545			7,245
Real estate held through direct ownership						2,235			2,051
Other						1,141			1,032
		Total other long-term investments			$	10,921		$	10,328
In certain investment structures, the Company's asset management business invests with other co-investors in an investment fund referred to as a feeder fund. In these structures, the invested capital of several feeder funds is pooled together and used to purchase ownership interests in another fund, referred to as a master fund. The master fund utilizes this invested capital and, in certain cases, other debt financing, to purchase various classes of assets on behalf of its investors. Specialized industry accounting for investment companies calls for the feeder fund to reflect its investment in the master fund as a single net asset equal to its proportionate share of the net assets of the master fund, regardless of its level of interest in the master fund. In cases where the Company consolidates the feeder fund, it retains the feeder fund's net asset presentation and reports the consolidated feeder fund's proportionate share of the net assets of the master fund in “Other long-term investments,” with any unaffiliated investors' noncontrolling interest in the feeder fund reported in “Other liabilities” or “Noncontrolling interests.” The consolidated feeder funds' investments in these master funds, reflected on this net asset basis, totaled $82 million and $52 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. There was no unaffiliated interest in the consolidated feeder funds as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The master funds had gross assets of $12,666 million and $972 million, respectively, and gross liabilities of $11,979 million and $794 million, respectively, which are not included on the Company's balance sheet.
Equity Method Investments
The following tables set forth summarized combined financial information for significant joint ventures and limited partnership interests accounted for under the equity method, including the Company's investments in operating joint ventures that are described in more detail in Note 7. Changes between periods in the tables below reflect changes in the activities within the joint ventures and limited partnerships, as well as changes in the Company's level of investment in such entities.
		At December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in millions)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Total assets(1)		$	50,602		$	51,588
Total liabilities(2)		$	13,152		$	10,868
Partners' capital			37,450			40,720
Total liabilities and partners' capital		$	50,602		$	51,588
Total liabilities and partners' capital included above		$	4,599		$	3,765
Equity in limited partnership interests not included above			42			350
Carrying value		$	4,641		$	4,115
Assets consist primarily of investments in real estate, investments in securities and other miscellaneous assets.
Liabilities consist primarily of third party-borrowed funds, securities repurchase agreements and other miscellaneous liabilities.
				Years ended December 31,
				2014			2013			2012
				(in millions)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Total revenue(1)				$	5,632		$	4,013		$	4,556
Total expenses(2)					-1,654			-943			-1,573
		Net earnings (losses)		$	3,978		$	3,070		$	2,983
Equity in net earnings (losses) included above				$	522		$	255		$	188
Equity in net earnings (losses) of limited partnership interests not included above					72			77			34
		Total equity in net earnings (losses)		$	594		$	332		$	222
Revenue consists of income from investments in real estate, investments in securities and other income.
Expenses consist primarily of interest expense, management fees, salary expenses and other expenses.
Net Investment Income
Net investment income for the years ended December 31, was from the following sources:
			2014			2013			2012
				(in millions)
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	10,558		$	10,541		$	9,800
Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity				185			125			135
Equity securities, available-for-sale				354			337			332
Trading account assets				1,074			963			890
Commercial mortgage and other loans				2,103			1,985			2,014
Policy loans				632			611			597
Short-term investments and cash equivalents				38			40			46
Other long-term investments				1,050			710			320
	Gross investment income			15,994			15,312			14,134
Less: investment expenses				-738			-583			-473
	Net investment income		$	15,256		$	14,729		$	13,661
Carrying value for non-income producing assets included $506 million in fixed maturities, $8 million in trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, $5 million in other long-term investments and $15 million in commercial mortgage and other loans as of December 31, 2014. Non-income producing assets represent investments that have not produced income for the twelve months preceding December 31, 2014.
Realized Investment Gains (Losses), Net
Realized investment gains (losses), net, for the years ended December 31, were from the following sources:
					2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
Fixed maturities					$	1,194		$	-93		$	-37
Equity securities						512			444			24
Commercial mortgage and other loans						110			79			94
Investment real estate						-5			2			-20
Joint ventures and limited partnerships						-15			34			-2
Derivatives(1)						-182			-5,688			-1,500
Other						22			16			0
	Realized investment gains (losses), net				$	1,636		$	-5,206		$	-1,441
Includes embedded derivatives as well as the offset of hedged items in qualifying effective hedge relationships prior to maturity or termination.
Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) on Investments by Asset Class
The table below presents net unrealized gains (losses) on investments by asset class as of the dates indicated:
					2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
Fixed maturity securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized					$	349		$	110		$	-194
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale - all other						33,625			18,029			23,876
Equity securities, available-for-sale						2,940			2,907			1,518
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(1)						206			-446			-257
Other investments(2)						-7			4			14
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments					$	37,113		$	20,604		$	24,957
See Note 21 for more information on cash flow hedges.
As of December 31, 2014, includes $6 million of net unrealized losses on held-to-maturity securities that were previously transferred from available-for-sale. Also includes net unrealized gains on certain joint ventures that are strategic in nature and are included in “Other assets.”
Duration of Gross Unrealized Loss Positions for Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities
The following table shows the fair value and gross unrealized losses aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual fixed maturity securities and equity securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, at December 31 for the years indicated:
				2014
				Less than twelve months						Twelve months or more						Total
				Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses
				(in millions)
Fixed maturities(1)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government authorities and agencies			$	2,145		$	5		$	10		$	0		$	2,155		$	5
Obligations of U.S. states and their political
	subdivisions				105			1			89			2			194			3
Foreign government bonds					839			26			1,052			91			1,891			117
Corporate securities					11,326			401			13,346			654			24,672			1,055
Commercial mortgage-backed securities					1,299			6			1,746			33			3,045			39
Asset-backed securities					3,417			16			3,229			118			6,646			134
Residential mortgage-backed securities					35			0			194			3			229			3
		Total		$	19,166		$	455		$	19,666		$	901		$	38,832		$	1,356
Equity securities, available-for-sale				$	1,670		$	82		$	9		$	1		$	1,679		$	83
Includes $91 million of fair value and $1 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2014, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI.
				2013(2)
				Less than twelve months						Twelve months or more						Total
				Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses
				(in millions)
Fixed maturities(1)
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government authorities and agencies			$	3,913		$	95		$	6		$	1		$	3,919		$	96
Obligations of U.S. states and their political
	subdivisions				1,187			129			43			8			1,230			137
Foreign government bonds					3,260			211			438			55			3,698			266
Corporate securities					29,574			1,618			14,094			1,814			43,668			3,432
Commercial mortgage-backed securities					4,267			128			605			35			4,872			163
Asset-backed securities					2,995			42			2,511			273			5,506			315
Residential mortgage-backed securities					1,602			34			284			8			1,886			42
		Total		$	46,798		$	2,257		$	17,981		$	2,194		$	64,779		$	4,451
Equity securities, available-for-sale				$	586		$	24		$	1		$	0		$	587		$	24
Includes $210 million of fair value and $24 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2013, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI.
Prior period's amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
The gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2014 and 2013, are composed of $1,156 million and $4,178 million related to high or highest quality securities based on NAIC or equivalent rating and $200 million and $274 million related to other than high or highest quality securities based on NAIC or equivalent rating. At December 31, 2014, the $901 million of gross unrealized losses of twelve months or more were concentrated in the energy, consumer non-cyclical, and utility sectors of the Company's corporate securities. At December 31, 2013, the $2,194 million of gross unrealized losses of twelve months or more were concentrated in the consumer non-cyclical, utility, and capital goods sectors of the Company's corporate securities. In accordance with its policy described in Note 2, the Company concluded that an adjustment to earnings for other-than-temporary impairments for these securities was not warranted at either December 31, 2014 or 2013. These conclusions are based on a detailed analysis of the underlying credit and cash flows on each security. The gross unrealized losses are primarily attributable to foreign currency movements and credit spreads widening. At December 31, 2014, the Company does not intend to sell the securities and it is not more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell the securities before the anticipated recovery of its remaining amortized cost basis.
At December 31, 2014, $13 million of the gross unrealized losses on equity securities represented declines of greater than 20%, all of which had been in that position for less than six months. At December 31, 2013, $4 million of the gross unrealized losses on equity securities represented declines of greater than 20%, all of which had been in that position for less than six months. In accordance with its policy described in Note 2, the Company concluded that an adjustment for other-than-temporary impairments for these equity securities was not warranted at either December 31, 2014 or 2013.
Securities Pledged, Restricted Assets and Special Deposits
The Company pledges as collateral investment securities it owns to unaffiliated parties through certain transactions, including securities lending, securities sold under agreements to repurchase, collateralized borrowings and postings of collateral with derivative counterparties. At December 31, 2014, the carrying value of investments pledged to third parties as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position included the following:
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Fixed maturities				$	15,338		$	14,648
Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities					391			606
Other trading account assets					231			105
Separate account assets					2,861			3,488
Equity securities					512			174
Total securities pledged				$	19,333		$	19,021
As of December 31, 2014, the carrying amount of the associated liabilities supported by the pledged collateral was $16,863 million. Of this amount, $9,407 million was “Securities sold under agreements to repurchase,” $2,935 million was “Separate account liabilities,” $4,241 million was “Cash collateral for loaned securities,” and $280 million was “Long-term debt.” As of December 31, 2013, the carrying amount of the associated liabilities supported by the pledged collateral was $16,822 million. Of this amount, $7,898 million was “Securities sold under agreements to repurchase,” $3,603 million was “Separate account liabilities,” $5,040 million was “Cash collateral for loaned securities,” and $281 million was “Long-term debt”.
In the normal course of its business activities, the Company accepts collateral that can be sold or repledged. The primary sources of this collateral are securities in customer accounts and securities purchased under agreements to resell. The fair value of this collateral was approximately $6,518 million and $193 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, all of which, for both periods, had either been sold or repledged.
Assets of $168 million and $211 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, were on deposit with governmental authorities or trustees, including certain restricted cash balances and securities. Additionally, assets carried at $606 million and $594 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, were held in voluntary trusts established primarily to fund guaranteed dividends to certain policyholders and to fund certain employee benefits. Securities restricted as to sale amounted to $164 million and $186 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These amounts include member and activity-based stock associated with memberships in the Federal Home Loan Banks of New York and Boston. Restricted cash and securities of $143 million and $162 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, were included in “Other assets.”

Variable_Interest_Entities

Variable Interest Entities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities	5. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
	In the normal course of its activities, the Company enters into relationships with various special purpose entities and other entities that are deemed to be variable interest entities (“VIEs”). A VIE is an entity that either (1) has equity investors that lack certain essential characteristics of a controlling financial interest (including the ability to control activities of the entity, the obligation to absorb the entity's expected losses and the right to receive the entity's expected residual returns) or (2) lacks sufficient equity to finance its own activities without financial support provided by other entities, which in turn would be expected to absorb at least some of the expected losses of the VIE.
	If the Company determines that it is the VIE's “primary beneficiary” it consolidates the VIE. There are currently two models for determining whether or not the Company is the “primary beneficiary” of a VIE. The first (the “Investment Company Model”) relates to those VIEs that have the characteristics of an investment company and for which certain other conditions are true. These conditions are that (1) the Company does not have the implicit or explicit obligation to fund losses of the VIE and (2) the VIE is not a securitization entity, asset-backed financing entity or an entity that was formerly considered a qualified special-purpose entity. In this model the Company is the primary beneficiary if it stands to absorb a majority of the VIE's expected losses or to receive a majority of the VIE's expected residual returns.
	For all other VIEs, the Company is the primary beneficiary if the Company has (1) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity and (2) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could be potentially significant.
	Consolidated Variable Interest Entities
	The Company is the investment manager of certain asset-backed investment vehicles commonly referred to as collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”) and certain other vehicles for which the Company earns fee income for investment management services, including certain investment structures in which the Company's asset management business invests with other co-investors in investment funds referred to as feeder funds. The Company may sell or syndicate investments through these vehicles, principally as part of the strategic investing activity of the Company's asset management businesses. Additionally, the Company may invest in securities issued by these vehicles. CLOs raise capital by issuing debt securities, and use the proceeds to purchase investments, typically interest-bearing financial instruments. The Company has analyzed these relationships and determined that for certain CLOs and other investment structures it is the primary beneficiary and consolidates these entities. This analysis includes a review of (1) the Company's rights and responsibilities as investment manager, (2) fees received by the Company and (3) other interests (if any) held by the Company. The assets of these VIEs are restricted and must be used first to settle liabilities of the VIE. The Company is not required to provide, and has not provided, material financial or other support to any of these VIEs.
	Additionally, the Company is the primary beneficiary of certain VIEs in which the Company has invested, as part of its investment activities, but for which it is not the investment manager. These include structured investments issued by a VIE that manages yen-denominated investments coupled with cross-currency coupon swap agreements thereby creating synthetic dual currency investments. The Company's involvement in the structuring of these investments combined with its economic interest indicates that the Company is the primary beneficiary. The Company has not provided material financial support or other support that was not contractually required to these VIEs.
	The table below reflects the carrying amount and balance sheet caption in which the assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs are reported. The liabilities primarily comprise obligations under debt instruments issued by the VIEs that are non-recourse to the Company. The creditors of these VIE do not have recourse to the Company in excess of the assets contained within the VIE.
			Consolidated VIEs for Which the Company is the Investment Manager				Other Consolidated VIEs
			December 31,				December 31,
			2014		2013		2014		2013
			(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale		$	44	$	68	$	104	$	108
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			0		0		763		871
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities			0		0		11		11
	Other trading account assets			6,943		3,832		0		0
	Commercial mortgage and other loans			13		23		300		300
	Other long-term investments			0		0		159		87
	Cash and cash equivalents			623		566		0		-3
	Accrued investment income			39		19		3		4
	Other assets			166		132		0		0
		Total assets of consolidated VIEs	$	7,828	$	4,640	$	1,340	$	1,378
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs		$	6,058	$	3,302	$	0	$	0
	Other liabilities			674		631		1		1
		Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	$	6,732	$	3,933	$	1	$	1
	As included in the table above, notes issued by consolidated VIEs are classified in the line item on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position titled, “Notes issued by consolidated VIEs.” Recourse is limited to the assets of the respective VIE and does not extend to the general credit of Prudential Financial. As of December 31, 2014, the maturities of these obligations were greater than five years.
	In addition, not reflected in the table above, the Company has created a trust that is a VIE, to facilitate Prudential Insurance's Funding Agreement Notes Issuance Program (“FANIP”). The trust issues medium-term notes secured by funding agreements issued to the trust by Prudential Insurance with the proceeds of such notes. The trust is the beneficiary of an indemnity agreement with the Company that provides that the Company is responsible for costs related to the notes issued with limited exception. As a result, the Company has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of the trust, which is therefore consolidated.
	The funding agreements represent an intercompany transaction that is eliminated upon consolidation. However, in recognition of the security interest in such funding agreements, the trust's medium-term note liability of $2,705 million and $2,381 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, is classified within “Policyholders' account balances.” Creditors of the trust have recourse to Prudential Insurance if the trust fails to make contractual payments on the medium-term notes. The Company has not provided material financial or other support to the trust that was not contractually required.
	Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities
	The Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of certain VIEs for which it is the investment manager. These VIEs consist primarily of investment funds for which the Company utilizes the Investment Company Model to assess consolidation. Accordingly, the Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of these entities because it does not stand to absorb a majority of the VIE's expected losses or to receive a majority of the VIE's expected residual returns. For all other investment structures, the Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary as it does not have both (1) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity and (2) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could be potentially significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could be potentially significant. The Company's maximum exposure to loss resulting from its relationship with unconsolidated VIEs for which it is the investment manager is limited to its investment in the VIEs, which was $137 million and $489 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These investments are reflected in “Fixed maturities, available-for-sale,” “Other trading account assets, at fair value” and “Other long-term investments.” The fair value of assets held within these unconsolidated VIEs was $6,973 million and $9,426 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. There are no liabilities associated with these unconsolidated VIEs on the Company's balance sheet.
	In the normal course of its activities, the Company will invest in joint ventures and limited partnerships. These ventures include hedge funds, private equity funds and real estate-related funds and may or may not be VIEs. The Company's maximum exposure to loss on these investments, both VIEs and non-VIEs, is limited to the amount of its investment. The Company has determined that it is not required to consolidate these entities because either (1) it does not control them or (2) it does not have the obligation to absorb losses of the entities that could be potentially significant to the entities or the right to receive benefits from the entities that could be potentially significant. The Company classifies these investments as “Other long-term investments” and its maximum exposure to loss associated with these entities was $7,545 million and $7,244 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	In addition, in the normal course of its activities, the Company will invest in structured investments including VIEs for which it is not the investment manager. These structured investments typically invest in fixed income investments and are managed by third parties and include asset-backed securities, commercial mortgage-backed securities and residential mortgage-backed securities. The Company's maximum exposure to loss on these structured investments, both VIEs and non-VIEs, is limited to the amount of its investment. See Note 4 for details regarding the carrying amounts and classification of these assets. The Company has not provided material financial or other support that was not contractually required to these structures. The Company has determined that it is not the primary beneficiary of these structures due to the fact that it does not control these entities.

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Disclosures [Abstract]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Text Block	6. DEFERRED POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS
	The balances of and changes in deferred policy acquisition costs as of and for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
			2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of year		$	16,512	$	14,100	$	12,517
		Capitalization of commissions, sales and issue expenses		2,694		2,902		3,565
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		629		328		328
		Amortization - All other		-2,602		-568		-1,832
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		-697		492		-168
		Foreign currency translation and other		-565		-742		-310
	Balance, end of year		$	15,971	$	16,512	$	14,100

Investments_In_Operating_Joint

Investments In Operating Joint Ventures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block]	7. INVESTMENTS IN OPERATING JOINT VENTURES
	The Company has made investments in certain joint ventures that are strategic in nature and made other than for the sole purpose of generating investment income. These investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting and are included in “Other assets” in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The earnings from these investments are included on an after-tax basis in “Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures, net of taxes” in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations. The summarized financial information for the Company's operating joint ventures has been included in the summarized combined financial information for all significant equity method investments shown in Note 4.
	The following table sets forth information related to the Company's investments in operating joint ventures as of and for the years ended December 31:
		2014		2013		2012
		(in millions)
	Investment in operating joint ventures	$	325	$	361	$	393
	Dividends received from operating joint ventures	$	27	$	31	$	41
	After-tax equity earnings of operating joint ventures(1)	$	16	$	59	$	60
	Includes gains associated with sales of the Company's previous investment, through a consortium, in China Pacific Group, for which the Company's remaining shares were sold in January, 2013. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized pre-tax gains of $66 million and $60 million, respectively, from sales of this investment.
	The Company has made investments in operating joint ventures as part of its Asset Management and International Insurance segments and its Corporate and Other operations. The Company transacts with certain of these operating joint ventures in the normal course of business, on terms equivalent to those that prevail in arm's length transactions. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $33 million, $30 million and $22 million, respectively, of asset management fee income from these transactions.

Value_Of_Business_Acquired

Value Of Business Acquired	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits [Abstract]
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits [Text Block]	8. VALUE OF BUSINESS ACQUIRED
	The balances of and changes in VOBA as of and for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
					2014(1)			2013			2012
						(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of year				$	3,675		$	3,248		$	3,845
		Acquisitions				7			1,370			0
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups				-175			59			-31
		Amortization - All other				-420			-509			-520
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses				-89			-55			90
		Interest(2)				95			105			62
		Foreign currency translation				-257			-543			-198
	Balance, end of year				$	2,836		$	3,675		$	3,248
	The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.
	The interest accrual rates vary by product. The interest rates for 2014 were 6.40%, 6.10%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, 3.00% to 6.17%, and 4.07% to 5.51% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The interest rates for 2013 were 6.40%, 6.14%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, and 3.00% to 6.17% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, and The Hartford, respectively. The interest rates for 2012 were 6.40%, 6.18%, 1.28% to 2.87%, and 2.60% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, and Aoba Life, respectively.
	The following table provides estimated future amortization, net of interest, for the periods indicated.
			2015			2016			2017			2018		2019
			(in millions)
	Estimated future VOBA amortization		$	315		$	284		$	252		$	227	$	210

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill And Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	9. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
	The changes in the book value of goodwill by area are as follows:
				Asset Management		Retirement		International Insurance		Total
				(in millions)
	Balance at December 31, 2011:
		Gross Goodwill		$	238	$	444	$	206	$	888
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			238		444		206		888
		2012 Activity:
			Other(1)		0		0		-15		-15
	Balance at December 31, 2012:
		Gross Goodwill			238		444		191		873
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			238		444		191		873
		2013 Activity:
			Other(1)		2		0		-36		-34
	Balance at December 31, 2013:
		Gross Goodwill			240		444		155		839
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			240		444		155		839
		2014 Activity:
			Acquisitions		0		0		18		18
			Other(1)		-5		0		-21		-26
	Balance at December 31, 2014:
		Gross Goodwill			235		444		152		831
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill		$	235	$	444	$	152	$	831
	(1) Other represents foreign currency translation and purchase price adjustments.
	The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually as of December 31 and more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, as discussed in further detail in Note 2.
	The Company performed goodwill impairment testing for all reporting units that had goodwill at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and no impairments were recorded.
	Other Intangibles
	Other Intangible balances at December 31, are as follows:
				2014								2013
				Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount		Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount
					(in millions)
	Subject to amortization:
		Mortgage servicing rights		$	462	$	-265	$	197	$	420		$	-231	$	189
		Customer relationships			275		-191		84		285			-188		97
		Other			42		-32		10		43			-29		14
	Not subject to amortization				3		N/A		3		3			N/A		3
			Total					$	294						$	303
	The fair values of net mortgage servicing rights were $210 million and $200 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Amortization expense for other intangibles was $55 million, $61 million and $56 million for the years ending December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Amortization expense for other intangibles is expected to be approximately $46 million in 2015, $38 million in 2016, $32 million in 2017, $27 million in 2018 and $24 million in 2019. The amortization expense amounts listed above for 2014, 2013 and 2012 do not include impairments recorded for mortgage servicing rights or other intangibles. See the non-recurring fair value measurements section of Note 20 for more information regarding these impairments.

Policyholders_Liabilities

Policyholders' Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Liability For Policy And Contract Claims [Abstract]
Liability For Policy And Contract Claims Disclosure [Text Block]	10. POLICYHOLDERS' LIABILITIES
	Future Policy Benefits
			Future policy benefits at December 31 for the years indicated are as follows:
				2014		2013
					(in millions)
	Life insurance			$	143,842	$	142,952
	Individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts				58,699		55,445
	Other contract liabilities				12,172		5,490
		Subtotal future policy benefits excluding unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses			214,713		203,887
	Unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses				3,053		2,972
		Total future policy benefits		$	217,766	$	206,859
	Life insurance liabilities include reserves for death and endowment policy benefits, terminal dividends and certain health benefits. Individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts liabilities include reserves for life contingent immediate annuities and life contingent group annuities. Other contract liabilities include unearned premiums and certain other reserves for group, annuities and individual life and health products.
	Future policy benefits for individual participating traditional life insurance are based on the net level premium method, calculated using the guaranteed mortality and nonforfeiture interest rates which range from 2.5% to 7.5%. Participating insurance represented 4% and 5% of direct individual life insurance in force at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and 16%, 14% and 11% of direct individual life insurance premiums for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Future policy benefits for individual non-participating traditional life insurance policies, group and individual long-term care policies and individual health insurance policies are generally equal to the present value of future benefit payments and related expenses, less the present value of future net premiums. Assumptions as to mortality, morbidity and persistency are based on the Company's experience, industry data, and/or other factors, when the basis of the reserve is established. Interest rates used in the determination of the present values range from 0.2% to 14.0%; less than 1% of the reserves are based on an interest rate in excess of 8%.
	Future policy benefits for individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts with life contingencies are generally equal to the aggregate of (1) the present value of expected future payments, and (2) any premium deficiency reserves. Assumptions as to mortality are based on the Company's experience, industry data, and/or other factors, when the basis of the reserve is established. The interest rates used in the determination of the present values range from 0.8% to 11.3%; less than 1% of the reserves are based on an interest rate in excess of 8%.
	Future policy benefits for other contract liabilities are generally equal to the present value of expected future payments based on the Company's experience, except for example, certain group insurance coverages for which future policy benefits are equal to gross unearned premium reserves. The interest rates used in the determination of the present values range from 0.4% to 7.3%.
	The Company's liability for future policy benefits is also inclusive of liabilities for guaranteed benefits related to certain nontraditional long-duration life and annuity contracts. Liabilities for guaranteed benefits with embedded derivative features are primarily in Other Contract Liabilities. The remaining liabilities for guaranteed benefits are primarily reflected with the underlying contract. See Note 11 for additional information regarding liabilities for guaranteed benefits related to certain nontraditional long-duration life and annuity contracts.
	Premium deficiency reserves included in “Future policy benefits” are established, if necessary, when the liability for future policy benefits plus the present value of expected future gross premiums are determined to be insufficient to provide for expected future policy benefits and expenses. Premium deficiency reserves have been recorded for the group single premium annuity business, which consists of limited-payment, long duration traditional, non-participating annuities; structured settlements; single premium immediate annuities with life contingencies; long-term care; and for certain individual health policies.
	Unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses primarily reflect the Company's estimate of future disability claim payments and expenses as well as estimates of claims incurred but not yet reported as of the balance sheet dates related to group disability products. Unpaid claim liabilities that are discounted use interest rates ranging from 3.0% to 6.4%.
	Policyholders' Account Balances
			Policyholders' account balances at December 31 for the years indicated are as follows:
				2014		2013
				(in millions)
	Individual annuities			$	37,718	$	35,947
	Group annuities				27,200		27,294
	Guaranteed investment contracts and guaranteed interest accounts				14,428		14,898
	Funding agreements				4,691		4,370
	Interest-sensitive life contracts				30,406		32,136
	Dividend accumulation and other				21,707		22,012
		Total policyholders' account balances		$	136,150	$	136,657
	Policyholders' account balances primarily represent an accumulation of account deposits plus credited interest less withdrawals, expense charges and mortality charges, if applicable. These policyholders' account balances also include provisions for benefits under non-life contingent payout annuities. Included in “Funding agreements” at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are $2,705 million and $2,380 million, respectively, related to the Company's FANIP. Under this program, which has a maximum authorized amount of $15 billion, a Delaware statutory trust issues medium-term notes to investors that are secured by funding agreements issued to the trust by Prudential Insurance. The outstanding notes have fixed or floating interest rates that range from 0.4% to 2.2% and original maturities ranging from two to ten years. Included in the amounts at December 31, 2014 and 2013 is the medium-term note liability, which is carried at amortized cost, of $2,705 million and $2,381 million, respectively. For additional details on the FANIP, see Note 5.
	Also included in “Funding agreements” are collateralized funding agreements issued to the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York ("FHLBNY") of $1,947 million, as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013. These obligations, which are carried at amortized cost, have fixed or floating interest rates that range from 0.5% to 2.2% and original maturities ranging from two to ten years. For additional details on the FHLBNY program, see Note 14. Interest crediting rates range from 0% to 27.8% for interest-sensitive life contracts and from 0% to 13.3% for contracts other than interest-sensitive life. Less than 1% of policyholders' account balances have interest crediting rates in excess of 8%.

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]
Long-Duration Insurance Contracts Disclosure [Text Block]	11.    CERTAIN NONTRADITIONAL LONG-DURATION CONTRACTS
	The Company issues traditional variable annuity contracts through its separate accounts for which investment income and investment gains and losses accrue directly to, and investment risk is borne by, the contractholder. The Company also issues variable annuity contracts with general and separate account options where the Company contractually guarantees to the contractholder a return of no less than total deposits made to the contract less any partial withdrawals (“return of net deposits”). In certain of these variable annuity contracts, the Company also contractually guarantees to the contractholder a return of no less than (1) total deposits made to the contract less any partial withdrawals plus a minimum return (“minimum return”), and/or (2) the highest contract value on a specified date minus any withdrawals (“contract value”). These guarantees include benefits that are payable in the event of death, annuitization or at specified dates during the accumulation period and withdrawal and income benefits payable during specified periods. The Company also issues annuity contracts with market value adjusted investment options (“MVAs”), which provide for a return of principal plus a fixed rate of return if held-to-maturity, or, alternatively, a “market adjusted value” if surrendered prior to maturity or if funds are reallocated to other investment options. The market value adjustment may result in a gain or loss to the Company, depending on crediting rates or an indexed rate at surrender, as applicable. The Company also issues fixed deferred annuity contracts without MVA that have a guaranteed credited rate and annuity benefit.
	In addition, the Company issues certain variable life, variable universal life and universal life contracts where the Company contractually guarantees to the contractholder a death benefit even when there is insufficient value to cover monthly mortality and expense charges, whereas otherwise the contract would typically lapse (“no lapse guarantee”). Variable life and variable universal life contracts are offered with general and separate account options.
	The assets supporting the variable portion of both traditional variable annuities and certain variable contracts with guarantees are carried at fair value and reported as “Separate account assets” with an equivalent amount reported as “Separate account liabilities.” Amounts assessed against the contractholders for mortality, administration, and other services are included within revenue in “Policy charges and fee income” and changes in liabilities for minimum guarantees are generally included in “Policyholders' benefits.”
	For those guarantees of benefits that are payable in the event of death, the net amount at risk is generally defined as the current guaranteed minimum death benefit in excess of the current account balance at the balance sheet date. The Company's primary risk exposures for these contracts relates to actual deviations from, or changes to, the assumptions used in the original pricing of these products, including fixed income and equity market returns, contract lapses and contractholder mortality.
	For guarantees of benefits that are payable at annuitization, the net amount at risk is generally defined as the present value of the minimum guaranteed annuity payments available to the contractholder determined in accordance with the terms of the contract in excess of the current account balance. The Company's primary risk exposures for these contracts relates to actual deviations from, or changes to, the assumptions used in the original pricing of these products, including fixed income and equity market returns, timing of annuitization, contract lapses and contractholder mortality.
	For guarantees of benefits that are payable at withdrawal, the net amount at risk is generally defined as the present value of the minimum guaranteed withdrawal payments available to the contractholder determined in accordance with the terms of the contract in excess of the current account balance. For guarantees of accumulation balances, the net amount at risk is generally defined as the guaranteed minimum accumulation balance minus the current account balance. The Company's primary risk exposures for these contracts relates to actual deviations from, or changes to, the assumptions used in the original pricing of these products, including equity market returns, interest rates, market volatility or contractholder behavior.
	The Company's contracts with guarantees may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract; therefore, the amounts listed may not be mutually exclusive. The liabilities related to the net amount at risk are reflected within “Future policy benefits.” As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had the following guarantees associated with these contracts, by product and guarantee type:
			31-Dec-14				31-Dec-13
			In the Event of Death		At Annuitization / Accumulation(1)		In the Event of Death		At Annuitization / Accumulation(1)
	Annuity Contracts		($ in millions)
	Return of net deposits
	Account value		$	118,629	$	163	$	113,527	$	181
	Net amount at risk		$	403	$	0	$	465	$	0
	Average attained age of contractholders			64 years		63 years		63 years		62 years
	Minimum return or contract value
	Account value		$	37,322	$	134,938	$	37,801	$	127,530
	Net amount at risk		$	2,856	$	3,135	$	2,817	$	2,892
	Average attained age of contractholders			66 years		62 years		66 years		63 years
	Average period remaining until earliest
		expected annuitization		N/A		0.29 years		N/A		0.33 years
	Includes income and withdrawal benefits as described herein.
							December 31,
							2014		2013
							In the Event of Death
							($ in millions)
	Variable Life, Variable Universal Life and Universal Life Contracts
	No lapse guarantees
	Separate account value						$	7,816	$	7,546
	General account value						$	12,124	$	11,155
	Net amount at risk						$	200,386	$	194,344
	Average attained age of contractholders							55 years		54 years
	Account balances of variable annuity contracts with guarantees were invested in separate account investment options as follows:
							December 31,
							2014		2013
							(in millions)
	Equity funds						$	94,473	$	90,199
	Bond funds							45,159		46,235
	Balanced funds							753		652
	Money market funds							8,335		6,528
		Total					$	148,720	$	143,614
	In addition to the amounts invested in separate account investment options above, $8,948 million at December 31, 2014, and $7,714 million at December 31, 2013, of account balances of variable annuity contracts with guarantees, inclusive of contracts with MVA features, were invested in general account investment options. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there were no transfers of assets, other than cash, from the general account to any separate account, and accordingly no gains or losses recorded.
	Liabilities for Guarantee Benefits
	The table below summarizes the changes in general account liabilities for guarantees. The liabilities for guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”), and guaranteed minimum income benefits (“GMIB”) are included in “Future policy benefits” and the related changes in the liabilities are included in “Policyholders' benefits.” Guaranteed minimum accumulation benefits (“GMAB”), guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (“GMWB”), and guaranteed minimum income and withdrawal benefits (“GMIWB”) features are considered to be bifurcated embedded derivatives and are recorded at fair value within “Future policy benefits”. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives, including changes in the Company's own risk of non-performance, along with any fees attributed or payments made relating to the derivative, are recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” See Note 20 for additional information regarding the methodology used in determining the fair value of these embedded derivatives. The Company maintains a portfolio of derivative investments that serve as a partial hedge of the risks associated with these products, for which the changes in fair value are also recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” This portfolio of derivative investments does not qualify for hedge accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP.
			GMDB				GMIB		GMAB/GMWB/ GMIWB
			Variable Life, Variable Universal Life and Universal Life		Annuity		Annuity		Annuity
			(in millions)
	Balance at December 31, 2011		$	288	$	319	$	405	$	2,886
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		103		272		102		463
		Paid guarantee benefits and other		-14		-104		-32		0
		Other(2)		-6		1		-16		-1
	Balance at December 31, 2012			371		488		459		3,348
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		97		35		10		-2,904
		Paid guarantee benefits and other		-4		-75		-23		0
		Other(3)		1,331		13		-49		-3
	Balance at December 31, 2013			1,795		461		397		441
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		794		245		84		7,741
		Paid guarantee benefits		-18		-68		-15		0
		Other		279		4		1		0
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	2,850	$	642	$	467	$	8,182
	-
	Incurred guarantee benefits include the portion of assessments established as additions to reserves as well as changes in estimates affecting the reserves. Also includes changes in the fair value of features considered to be derivatives.
	Primarily represents amounts acquired from Star and Edison.
	GMDB primarily includes amounts acquired from The Hartford on January 2, 2013.
The GMDB liability is determined each period end by estimating the accumulated value of a portion of the total assessments to date less the accumulated value of the guaranteed death benefits in excess of the account balance. The GMIB liability associated with variable annuities is determined each period by estimating the accumulated value of a portion of the total assessments to date less the accumulated value of the projected income benefits in excess of the account balance. The portion of assessments used is chosen such that, at issue the present value of expected death benefits or expected income benefits in excess of the projected account balance and the portion of the present value of total expected assessments over the lifetime of the contracts are equal. The GMIB liability associated with fixed annuities is determined each period by estimating the present value of projected income benefits in excess of the account balance. The Company regularly evaluates the estimates used and adjusts the GMDB and GMIB liability balances, with an associated charge or credit to earnings, if actual experience or other evidence suggests that earlier estimates should be revised.
The GMAB features provide the contractholder with a guaranteed return of initial account value or an enhanced value if applicable. The most significant of the Company's GMAB features are the guaranteed return option (“GRO”) features, which includes an automatic rebalancing element that reduces the Company's exposure to these guarantees. The GMAB liability is calculated as the present value of future expected payments to customers less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the embedded derivative feature.
The GMWB features provide the contractholder with access to a guaranteed remaining balance if the account value is reduced to zero through a combination of market declines and withdrawals. The guaranteed remaining balance is generally equal to the protected value under the contract, which is initially established as the greater of the account value or cumulative deposits when withdrawals commence, less cumulative withdrawals. The contractholder also has the option, after a specified time period, to reset the guaranteed remaining balance to the then current account value, if greater. The contractholder accesses the guaranteed remaining balance through payments over time, subject to maximum annual limits. The GMWB liability is calculated as the present value of future expected payments to customers less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the embedded derivative feature.
The GMIWB features, taken collectively, provide a contractholder two optional methods to receive guaranteed minimum payments over time, a “withdrawal” option or an “income” option. The withdrawal option (which was available under only one of the GMIWBs and is no longer offered) guarantees that a contractholder can withdraw an amount each year until the cumulative withdrawals reach a total guaranteed balance. The income option (which varies among the Company's GMIWBs) in general guarantees the contractholder the ability to withdraw an amount each year for life (or for joint lives, in the case of any spousal version of the benefit) where such amount is equal to a percentage of a protected value under the benefit. The contractholder also has the potential to increase this annual amount, based on certain subsequent increases in account value that may occur. The GMIWB can be elected by the contractholder upon issuance of an appropriate deferred variable annuity contract or at any time following contract issue prior to annuitization. Certain GMIWB features include an automatic rebalancing element that reduces the Company's exposure to these guarantees. The GMIWB liability is calculated as the present value of future expected payments to customers less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the embedded derivative feature.
Sales Inducements
The Company defers sales inducements and amortizes them over the anticipated life of the policy using the same methodology and assumptions used to amortize deferred policy acquisition costs. These deferred sales inducements are included in “Other assets.” The Company has offered various types of sales inducements including: (1) a bonus whereby the policyholder's initial account balance is increased by an amount equal to a specified percentage of the customer's initial deposit; (2) additional credits after a certain number of years a contract is held; and (3) enhanced interest crediting rates that are higher than the normal general account interest rate credited in certain product lines. Changes in deferred sales inducements, reported as “Interest credited to policyholders' account balances,” are as follows:
		Sales Inducements
		(in millions)
Balance at December 31, 2011		$	1,001
	Capitalization		259
	Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		189
	Amortization - All other		-109
	Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		17
Balance at December 31, 2012			1,357
	Capitalization		53
	Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		27
	Amortization - All other		340
	Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		36
Balance at December 31, 2013			1,813
	Capitalization		22
	Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		81
	Amortization - All other		-403
	Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		1
Balance at December 31, 2014		$	1,514

Closed_Block

Closed Block	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Closed Block Disclosure [Abstract]
Closed Block Note Disclosure [Text Block]	12.    CLOSED BLOCK
	On the date of demutualization, Prudential Insurance established a Closed Block for certain individual life insurance policies and annuities issued by Prudential Insurance in the U.S. The recorded assets and liabilities were allocated to the Closed Block at their historical carrying amounts. From demutualization through December 31, 2014, the Closed Block has formed the principal component of the Closed Block Business. See Note 22 for financial information on the Closed Block Business, which has included Surplus and Related Assets and other related liabilities. After the Class B Repurchase and redemption of the IHC Debt, the insurance policies and annuity contracts comprising the Closed Block continue to be managed in accordance with the Plan of Reorganization approved by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance on December 18, 2001. Prudential Insurance remains directly obligated for the insurance policies and annuity contracts in the Closed Block. These transactions do not change the Closed Block assets allocated to support the Closed Block's liabilities, policyholder dividend scales or the methodology for determining policyholder dividends. Accordingly, the transactions have no impact on the guaranteed benefits, premiums or dividends for Closed Block policyholders. See Note 1 and Note 25 for additional information.
	The policies included in the Closed Block are specified individual life insurance policies and individual annuity contracts that were in force on the effective date of the Plan of Reorganization and for which Prudential Insurance is currently paying or expects to pay experience-based policy dividends. Assets have been allocated to the Closed Block in an amount that has been determined to produce cash flows which, together with revenues from policies included in the Closed Block, are expected to be sufficient to support obligations and liabilities relating to these policies, including provision for payment of benefits, certain expenses, and taxes and to provide for continuation of the policyholder dividend scales in effect in 2000, assuming experience underlying such scales continues. To the extent that, over time, cash flows from the assets allocated to the Closed Block and claims and other experience related to the Closed Block are, in the aggregate, more or less favorable than what was assumed when the Closed Block was established, total dividends paid to Closed Block policyholders may be greater than or less than the total dividends that would have been paid to these policyholders if the policyholder dividend scales in effect in 2000 had been continued. Any cash flows in excess of amounts assumed will be available for distribution over time to Closed Block policyholders and will not be available to stockholders. If the Closed Block has insufficient funds to make guaranteed policy benefit payments, such payments will be made from assets outside of the Closed Block. The Closed Block will continue in effect as long as any policy in the Closed Block remains in force unless, with the consent of the New Jersey insurance regulator, it is terminated earlier.
	The excess of Closed Block lLiabilities over Closed Block aAssets at the date of the demutualization (adjusted to eliminate the impact of related amounts in AOCI) represented the estimated maximum future earnings at that date from the Closed Block expected to result from operations attributed to the Closed Block after income taxes. In establishing the Closed Block, the Company developed an actuarial calculation of the timing of such maximum future earnings. If actual cumulative earnings of the Closed Block from inception through the end of any given period are greater than the expected cumulative earnings, only the expected earnings will be recognized in income. Any excess of actual cumulative earnings over expected cumulative earnings will represent undistributed accumulated earnings attributable to policyholders, which are recorded as a policyholder dividend obligation. The policyholder dividend obligation represents amounts to be paid to Closed Block policyholders as an additional policyholder dividend unless otherwise offset by future Closed Block performance that is less favorable than originally expected. If the actual cumulative earnings of the Closed Block from its inception through the end of any given period are less than the expected cumulative earnings of the Closed Block, the Company will recognize only the actual earnings in income. However, the Company may reduce policyholder dividend scales, which would be intended to increase future actual earnings until the actual cumulative earnings equaled the expected cumulative earnings.
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized a policyholder dividend obligation of $1,558 million and $887 million, respectively, to Closed Block policyholders for the excess of actual cumulative earnings over the expected cumulative earnings. Additionally, accumulated net unrealized investment gains that have arisen subsequent to the establishment of the Closed Block have been reflected as a policyholder dividend obligation of $5,053 million and $3,624 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, to be paid to Closed Block policyholders unless offset by future experience, with an offsetting amount reported in AOCI.
	On December 11, 2012, Prudential Insurance's Board of Directors approved a continuation of the Closed Block dividend scales for 2013. On December 5, 2013 and December 5, 2014, Prudential Insurance's Board of Directors acted to increase the 2014 and 2015 dividends payable on Closed Block policies, respectively. These actions resulted in an approximately $33 million and $60 million increase in the liability for policyholders dividends recognized for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively.
	Closed Block lLiabilities and aAssets designated to the Closed Block at December 31, as well as maximum future earnings to be recognized from Closed Block lLiabilities and Closed Block aAssets, are as follows:
						2014		2013
						(in millions)
	Closed Block liabilities
		Future policy benefits				$	49,863	$	50,258
		Policyholders' dividends payable					931		907
		Policyholders' dividend obligation					6,612		4,511
		Policyholders' account balances					5,310		5,359
		Other Closed Block liabilities					5,084		4,281
			Total Closed Block liabilities				67,800		65,316
	Closed Block assets
		Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value					40,629		39,169
		Other trading account assets, at fair value					302		291
		Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value					3,522		3,884
		Commercial mortgage and other loans					9,472		8,762
		Policy loans					4,914		5,013
		Other long-term investments					2,765		2,085
		Short-term investments					1,225		1,790
			Total investments				62,829		60,994
		Cash and cash equivalents					1,201		544
		Accrued investment income					527		542
		Other Closed Block assets					332		296
			Total Closed Block assets				64,889		62,376
	Excess of reported Closed Block liabilities over Closed Block assets						2,911		2,940
	Portion of above representing accumulated other comprehensive income:
			Net unrealized investment gains (losses)				5,040		3,615
			Allocated to policyholder dividend obligation				-5,053		-3,624
	Future earnings to be recognized from Closed Block assets and Closed Block liabilities					$	2,898	$	2,931
			Information regarding the policyholder dividend obligation is as follows:
						2014		2013
						(in millions)
	Balance, January 1					$	4,511	$	6,363
		Impact from earnings allocable to policyholder dividend obligation					672		2
		Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated to policyholder dividend
			obligation				1,429		-1,854
	Balance, December 31					$	6,612	$	4,511
			Closed Block revenues and benefits and expenses for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
				2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Revenues
		Premiums		$	2,704	$	2,728	$	2,817
		Net investment income			2,809		2,796		2,919
		Realized investment gains (losses), net			1,164		230		243
		Other income			34		57		31
			Total Closed Block revenues		6,711		5,811		6,010
	Benefits and Expenses
		Policyholders' benefits			3,326		3,334		3,445
		Interest credited to policyholders' account balances			136		136		137
		Dividends to policyholders			2,635		1,910		2,021
		General and administrative expenses			444		467		492
			Total Closed Block benefits and expenses		6,541		5,847		6,095
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, before
		income taxes and discontinued operations			170		-36		-85
	Income tax expense (benefit)				139		-57		-103
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses and income
		taxes, before discontinued operations			31		21		18
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes				1		0		-2
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, income taxes
	and discontinued operations		$	32	$	21	$	16

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance [Text Block]	13.    REINSURANCE
	The Company participates in reinsurance with third parties primarily to provide additional capacity for future growth, to limit the maximum net loss potential arising from large risks and in acquiring or disposing of businesses.
	On January 2, 2013, the Company acquired The Hartford's individual life insurance business through a reinsurance transaction. Under the agreement, the Company provided reinsurance for approximately 700,000 life insurance policies with net retained face amount in force of approximately $141 billion. The Company acquired the general account business through a coinsurance arrangement and, for certain types of general account policies, a modified coinsurance arrangement. The Company acquired the separate account business through a modified coinsurance arrangement.
	Since 2011, the Company has entered into several reinsurance agreements to assume pension liabilities in the United Kingdom. Under these arrangements, the Company assumes the longevity risk associated with the pension benefits of certain named beneficiaries. In 2014, the Company entered into a significant reinsurance transaction with a new United Kingdom counterparty. The account value associated with this transaction was $27 billion.
	In 2006, the Company acquired the variable annuity business of The Allstate Corporation (“Allstate”) through a reinsurance transaction. The reinsurance arrangements with Allstate include a coinsurance arrangement associated with the general account liabilities assumed and a modified coinsurance arrangement associated with the separate account liabilities assumed. The reinsurance payable, which represents the Company's obligation under the modified coinsurance arrangement, is netted with the reinsurance receivable in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
	In 2004, the Company acquired the retirement business of CIGNA and subsequently entered into various reinsurance arrangements. The Company still has indemnity coinsurance and modified coinsurance without assumption arrangements in effect related to this acquisition.
	For the domestic business, life and disability reinsurance is accomplished through various plans of reinsurance, primarily yearly renewable term, per person excess, excess of loss, and coinsurance. On policies sold since 2000, the Company has reinsured a significant portion of the mortality risk. However, effective in August 2014, for new term business the Company reduced the amount of mortality risk reinsured, particularly on policies with smaller face amounts. Placement of reinsurance is accomplished primarily on an automatic basis with some specific risks reinsured on a facultative basis. The Company has historically retained up to $30 million per life, but reduced its retention limit to $20 million per life in 2013. In addition, through December 31, 2014, the Company has reinsured 73% of the Closed Block Business with unaffiliated third parties through various modified coinsurance arrangements accounted for using the deposit method of accounting. Effective January 1, 2015, these reinsurance arrangements were recaptured and the Company entered into a new reinsurance arrangement related to the Closed Block. See Note 25 for additional information.
	The international business primarily uses reinsurance to obtain experience with respect to certain new product offerings and to a lesser extent, to manage risk and volatility as necessary.
	Reinsurance ceded arrangements do not discharge the Company as the primary insurer. Ceded balances would represent a liability of the Company in the event the reinsurers were unable to meet their obligations to the Company under the terms of the reinsurance agreements. Reinsurance premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, benefits and reserves related to reinsured long-duration contracts under coinsurance arrangements are accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured contracts using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying contracts. Coinsurance arrangements contrast with the Company's yearly renewable term arrangements, where only mortality risk is transferred to the reinsurer and premiums are paid to the reinsurer to reinsure that risk. The mortality risk that is reinsured under yearly renewable term arrangements represents the difference between the stated death benefits in the underlying reinsured contracts and the corresponding reserves or account value carried by the Company on those same contracts. The premiums paid to the reinsurer are based upon negotiated amounts, not on the actual premiums paid by the underlying contract holders to the Company. As yearly renewable term arrangements are usually entered into by the Company with the expectation that the contracts will be inforce for the lives of the underlying policies, they are considered to be long-duration reinsurance contracts. The cost of reinsurance related to short-duration reinsurance contracts is accounted for over the reinsurance contract period. The tables presented below exclude amounts pertaining to the Company's discontinued operations.
	Reinsurance amounts included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations for premiums, policy charges and fees and policyholders' benefits for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
			2014		2013		2012
			(in millions)
	Direct premiums		$	29,666	$	27,444	$	66,566
	Reinsurance assumed			1,134		272		224
	Reinsurance ceded			-1,507		-1,479		-1,436
		Premiums	$	29,293	$	26,237	$	65,354
	Direct policy charges and fees		$	5,026	$	4,648	$	4,491
	Reinsurance assumed			1,425		918		106
	Reinsurance ceded			-272		-151		-108
		Policy charges and fees	$	6,179	$	5,415	$	4,489
	Direct policyholder benefits		$	31,012	$	27,458	$	66,075
	Reinsurance assumed			2,732		809		435
	Reinsurance ceded			-2,157		-1,534		-1,379
		Policyholders' benefits	$	31,587	$	26,733	$	65,131
	Reinsurance recoverables at December 31, are as follows:
					2014		2013
					(in millions)
	Individual and group annuities(1)				$	109	$	252
	Life insurance(2)					2,842		2,383
	Other reinsurance					159		149
		Total reinsurance recoverable			$	3,110	$	2,784
	Primarily represents reinsurance recoverables established under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA. The Company has recorded reinsurance payables related to the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA of $105 million and $248 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Includes $2,130 million and $1,597 million of reinsurance recoverables established at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the individual life business of The Hartford. The Company has also recorded reinsurance payables related to the individual life business of The Hartford acquisition of $1,300 million and $1,244 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Excluding the reinsurance recoverable associated with the acquisition of individual life business of The Hartford and the retirement business of CIGNA, four major reinsurance companies account for approximately 69% of the reinsurance recoverable at December 31, 2014. The Company periodically reviews the financial condition of its reinsurers, amounts recoverable therefrom, and unearned reinsurance premium, in order to minimize its exposure to loss from reinsurer insolvencies. If deemed necessary, the Company would secure collateral in the form of a trust, letter of credit, or funds withheld arrangement to ensure collectability; otherwise, an allowance for uncollectible reinsurance would be recorded. Under the Company's longevity reinsurance transactions, the Company has secured collateral from its counterparties to minimize counterparty default risk.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt	14.    SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM DEBT
	Short-term Debt
			Short-term debt at December 31 for the years indicated is as follows:
					2014				2013
					(in millions)
	Commercial paper:
		Prudential Financial			$	97			$	190
		Prudential Funding, LLC				386				460
	Subtotal commercial paper					483				650
	Current portion of long-term debt(1)					3,356				2,019
			Total short-term debt(2)		$	3,839			$	2,669
	Supplemental short-term debt information:
		Portion of commercial paper borrowings due overnight			$	199			$	466
		Daily average commercial paper outstanding			$	1,409			$	1,309
		Weighted average maturity of outstanding commercial paper, in days				22				18
		Weighted average interest rate on outstanding short-term debt(3)				0.12	%			0.17	%
	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2014 and limited and non-recourse borrowings of Prudential Holdings, LLC attributable to the Closed Block Business of $75 million at December 31, 2013. This debt was redeemed in December 2014.
	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Excludes the current portion of long-term debt.
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company was in compliance with all covenants related to the above debt.
	Commercial Paper
	Prudential Financial has a commercial paper program with an authorized capacity of $3.0 billion. Prudential Financial commercial paper borrowings have been generally used to fund the working capital needs of Prudential Financial's subsidiaries and provide short-term liquidity at Prudential Financial.
	Prudential Funding, LLC (“Prudential Funding”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Prudential Insurance, has a commercial paper program, with an authorized capacity of $7.0 billion. Prudential Funding commercial paper borrowings have generally served as an additional source of financing to meet the working capital needs of Prudential Insurance and its subsidiaries. Prudential Funding also lends to other subsidiaries of Prudential Financial up to limits agreed with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“NJDOBI”). Prudential Funding maintains a support agreement with Prudential Insurance whereby Prudential Insurance has agreed to maintain Prudential Funding's tangible net worth at a positive level. Additionally, Prudential Financial has issued a subordinated guarantee covering Prudential Funding's $7.0 billion commercial paper program.
	Federal Home Loan Bank of New York
	Prudential Insurance is a member of the FHLBNY. Membership allows Prudential Insurance access to the FHLBNY's financial services, including the ability to obtain collateralized loans and to issue collateralized funding agreements. Under applicable law, the funding agreements issued to the FHLBNY have priority claim status above debt holders of Prudential Insurance. FHLBNY borrowings and funding agreements are collateralized by qualifying mortgage-related assets or U.S. Treasury securities, the fair value of which must be maintained at certain specified levels relative to outstanding borrowings. FHLBNY membership requires Prudential Insurance to own member stock and borrowings require the purchase of activity-based stock in an amount equal to 4.5% of outstanding borrowings. Under FHLBNY guidelines, if Prudential Insurance's financial strength ratings decline below A/A2/A Stable by S&P/Moody's/Fitch, respectively, and the FHLBNY does not receive written assurances from the NJDOBI regarding Prudential Insurance's solvency, new borrowings from the FHLBNY would be limited to a term of 90 days or less. Currently there are no restrictions on the term of borrowings from the FHLBNY. All FHLBNY stock purchased by Prudential Insurance is classified as restricted general account investments within “Other long-term investments,” and the carrying value of these investments was $151 million and $168 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	NJDOBI permits Prudential Insurance to pledge collateral to the FHLBNY in an amount of up to 5% of its prior year-end statutory net admitted assets, excluding separate account assets. Based on Prudential Insurance's statutory net admitted assets as of December 31, 2013, the 5% limitation equates to a maximum amount of pledged assets of $8.6 billion and an estimated maximum borrowing capacity (after taking into account required collateralization levels) of approximately $7.2 billion. Nevertheless, FHLBNY borrowings are subject to the FHLBNY's discretion and to the availability of qualifying assets at Prudential Insurance.
	As of December 31, 2014, Prudential Insurance had pledged assets with a fair value of $2.8 billion supporting aggregate outstanding collateralized advances and funding agreements of $2.2 billion. As of December 31, 2014, an outstanding advance of $280 million is in “Short-term debt” and matures in December 2015, and outstanding funding agreements, totaling $1,947 million are included in “Policyholders' account balances.” The fair value of qualifying assets that were available to Prudential Insurance but not pledged amounted to $4.1 billion as of December 31, 2014.
	Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston
	Prudential Retirement Insurance and Annuity Company (“PRIAC”) is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (“FHLBB”). Membership allows PRIAC access to collateralized advances which will be classified in “Short-term debt” or “Long-term debt,” depending on the maturity date of the obligation. PRIAC's membership in FHLBB requires the ownership of member stock and borrowings from FHLBB require the purchase of activity-based stock in an amount between 3.0% and 4.5% of outstanding borrowings depending on the maturity date of the obligation. As of December 31, 2014, PRIAC had no advances outstanding under the FHLBB facility.
	Under Connecticut law, without the prior consent of the Connecticut Insurance Department (“CTID”), the amount of assets insurers may pledge to secure debt obligations is limited to the lesser of 5% of prior-year statutory admitted assets or 25% of prior-year statutory surplus, resulting in a maximum borrowing capacity for PRIAC under the FHLBB facility of approximately $213 million.
	Credit Facilities
	The Company's syndicated, unsecured committed credit facilities at December 31, 2014 are as follows:
				Original		Expiration
		Borrower		Term		Date		Capacity			Outstanding
								(in millions)
		Prudential Financial(1)		5-year		Nov-18	$	2,000		$	0
		Prudential Financial and Prudential Funding(1)		3-year		Nov-16		1,750			0
							$	3,750		$	0
	In November 2013, amendments to these facilities extended their terms by approximately 2 years. The expiration dates above reflect that extension.
	The above credit facilities may be used for general corporate purposes, including as backup liquidity for the Company's commercial paper programs discussed above. As of December 31, 2014, there were no outstanding borrowings under either credit facility. Prudential Financial expects that it may borrow under the five-year credit facility from time to time to fund its working capital needs and those of its subsidiaries. In addition, up to $300 million of the five-year facility may be drawn in the form of standby letters of credit that can be used to meet the Company's operating needs.
	The credit facilities contain representations and warranties, covenants and events of default that are customary for facilities of this type; however, borrowings under the facilities are not contingent on the Company's credit ratings nor subject to material adverse change clauses. Borrowings under the credit facilities are conditioned on the continued satisfaction of other customary conditions, including the maintenance by the Company at all times of consolidated net worth, of at least $18.99 billion, which for this purpose is calculated as U.S. GAAP equity, excluding AOCI and excluding equity of noncontrolling interests. Prior to an amendment of the facilities in December 2014, this minimum net worth requirement applied to the net worth of the Financial Services Businesses only. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the consolidated net worth of the Company exceeded the minimum amount required to borrow under the credit facilities.
	In addition to the above credit facilities, the Company had access to $483 million of certain other lines of credit at December 31, 2014, of which $445 million was for the sole use of certain real estate separate accounts. The separate account facilities include loan-to-value ratio requirements and other financial covenants, and recourse on obligations under these facilities is limited to the assets of the applicable separate account. At December 31, 2014, $267 million of these credit facilities were used. The Company also has access to uncommitted lines of credit from financial institutions.
	Put Option Agreement for Senior Debt Issuance
	In November 2013, Prudential Financial entered into a ten-year put option agreement with a Delaware trust upon the completion of the sale of $1.5 billion of trust securities by that Delaware trust in a Rule 144A private placement. The trust invested the proceeds from the sale of the trust securities in a portfolio of principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities. The put option agreement provides Prudential Financial the right to sell to the trust at any time up to $1.5 billion of 4.419% senior notes due November 2023 and receive in exchange a corresponding amount of the principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities held by the trust. In return, the Company agreed to pay a semi-annual put premium to the trust at a rate of 1.777% per annum applied to the unexercised portion of the put option. The put option agreement with the trust provides Prudential Financial with a source of liquid assets.
	The put option described above will be exercised automatically in full upon the Company's failure to make certain payments to the trust, such as paying the put option premium or reimbursing the trust for its expenses, if the Company's failure to pay is not cured within 30 days, and upon an event involving its bankruptcy. The Company is also required to exercise the put option if its consolidated stockholders' equity, calculated in accordance with GAAP but excluding AOCI, falls below $7 billion, subject to adjustment in certain cases. The Company has a one-time right to unwind a prior voluntary exercise of the put option by repurchasing all of the senior notes then held by the trust in exchange for principal and interest strips of U.S. Treasury securities. Finally, any of the 4.419% senior notes that Prudential Financial issues may be redeemed prior to their maturity at par or, if greater, a make-whole price, following a voluntary exercise in full of the put option.
	Long-term Debt
	Long-term debt at December 31 for the years indicated is as follows:
				Maturity				December 31,
				Dates		Rate (1)		2014			2013
								(in millions)
	Fixed-rate notes:
		Surplus notes		2015-2025		5.36%-8.30%		$	841		$	941
		Surplus notes subject to set-off arrangements		2021-2033		3.52%-5.26%			3,588			2,400
		Senior notes(2)		2015-2044		2.30%-11.31%			10,842			12,151
		Mortgage debt(3)		2019-2024		1.72%-3.80%			142			0
	Floating-rate notes:
		Surplus notes		2016-2052		0.51%-3.44%			500			3,200
		Surplus notes subject to set-off arrangements		2024		1.65%			385			0
		U. S. dollar-denominated senior notes		2015-2020		0.40%-4.88%			2,209			677
		Foreign currency-denominated senior notes		-4		1.33%-1.42%			53			100
		Mortgage debt(5)		2017-2024		1.36%-3.11%			360			0
	Junior subordinated notes			2042-2068		5.20%-8.88%			4,884			4,884
	Prudential Holdings, LLC notes (the "IHC Debt"):
		Series A		2017(6)		1.12%			0			238
	Series B		2023(6)		7.25%			0			777
	Series C		2023(6)		8.70%			0			585
Subtotal								23,804			25,953
Less: assets under set-off arrangements(7)								3,973			2,400
		Total long-term debt(8)					$	19,831		$	23,553
Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2013.
Includes $71 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $34 million of this debt was presented as fixed-rate senior notes.
Perpetual debt that has no stated maturity.
Includes $142 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $123 million and $39 million of this debt was presented as floating-rate U.S. dollar-denominated senior notes and floating-rate foreign currency-denominated senior notes, respectively.
The IHC Debt was redeemed by Prudential Holdings, LLC in December 2014.
Assets under set-off arrangements represent a reduction in the amount of surplus notes included in long-term debt, resulting from an arrangement where valid rights of set-off exist and it is the intent of both parties to settle on a net basis under legally enforceable arrangements.
Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants related to the borrowings in the table above.
The following table presents the contractual maturities of the Company's long-term debt as of December 31, 2014:
			Calendar Year
														2020 and
			2016			2017			2018			2019		thereafter		Total
			(in millions)
Long-term debt			$	1,352		$	1,581		$	1,431		$	1,631	$	13,836	$	19,831
Surplus Notes
As of December 31, 2014, Prudential Insurance had $941 million of fixed-rate surplus notes outstanding. These notes are subordinated to other Prudential Insurance borrowings and policyholder obligations, and the payment of interest and principal may only be made with the prior approval of NJDOBI. NJDOBI could prohibit the payment of the interest and principal on the surplus notes if certain statutory capital requirements are not met. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company met these statutory capital requirements.
Prudential Insurance's fixed-rate surplus notes include $500 million of exchangeable surplus notes issued in a private placement in 2009 with an interest rate of 5.36% per annum and due September 2019. The surplus notes became exchangeable at the option of the holder, in whole but not in part, for shares of Prudential Financial Common Stock beginning as of September 18, 2014. The initial exchange rate for the surplus notes is 10.1235 shares of Common Stock per each $1,000 principal amount of surplus notes, which represents an initial exchange price per share of Common Stock of $98.78; however, the exchange rate is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments. The exchange rate is also subject to a make-whole decrease in the event of an exchange prior to maturity (except upon a fundamental business combination or a continuing payment default), that will result in a reduction in the number of shares issued upon exchange (per $1,000 principal amount of surplus notes) determined by dividing a prescribed cash reduction value (which will decline over the life of the surplus notes, from $102.62 for an exercise on September 18, 2014, to zero for an exercise at maturity) by the price of the Common Stock at the time of exchange. In addition, the exchange rate is subject to a customary make-whole increase in connection with an exchange of the surplus notes upon a fundamental business combination where 10% or more of the consideration in that business combination consists of cash, other property or securities that are not listed on a U.S. national securities exchange. These exchangeable surplus notes are not redeemable by Prudential Insurance prior to maturity, except in connection with a fundamental business combination involving Prudential Financial, in which case the surplus notes will be redeemable by Prudential Insurance, subject to the noteholders' right to exchange the surplus notes instead, at par or, if greater, a make-whole redemption price.
From 2011 through 2013, a captive reinsurance subsidiary of Prudential Insurance entered into agreements providing for the issuance and sale of up to $2.0 billion of ten-year fixed-rate surplus notes. Under the agreements, the captive receives in exchange for the surplus notes one or more credit-linked notes issued by a special purpose subsidiary of the Company in an aggregate principal amount equal to the surplus notes issued. The captive holds the credit-linked notes as assets supporting non-economic reserves required to be held by the Company's domestic insurance subsidiaries under Regulation XXX in connection with the reinsurance of term life insurance policies through the captive. The principal amount of the outstanding credit-linked notes is redeemable by the captive in cash upon the occurrence of, and in an amount necessary to remedy, a specified liquidity stress event affecting the captive. Under the agreements, external counterparties have agreed to fund any such payment under the credit-linked notes in return for a fee. Prudential Financial has agreed to make capital contributions to the captive to reimburse it for investment losses in excess of specified amounts and has agreed to reimburse the external counterparties for any payments under the credit-linked notes that are funded by those counterparties. As of December 31, 2014, an aggregate of $1,750 million of surplus notes were outstanding under these agreements and no such payments under the credit-linked notes have been required.
In December 2013, a captive reinsurance subsidiary entered into a twenty-year financing facility with external counterparties providing for the issuance and sale of a surplus note in an aggregate principal amount of up to $2.0 billion in order to finance non-economic reserves required to be held by the Company's domestic insurance subsidiaries under a Guideline entitled “The Application of the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Model Regulation,” commonly known as “Guideline AXXX.”. In June 2014, the facility was amended to increase the current financing capacity available under the facility from $2.0 billion to $3.5 billion, increase the maximum potential size of the facility to $4.0 billion and add additional external parties. Similar to the agreements described above, the captive receives in exchange for the surplus note one or more credit linked notes issued by a special-purpose affiliate in an aggregate principal amount equal to the surplus note. As above, the principal amount of the outstanding credit-linked notes is redeemable by the captive in cash upon the occurrence of, and in an amount necessary to remedy, a specified liquidity stress event, and the external counterparties have agreed to fund any such payment. Prudential Financial has agreed to reimburse the captive for investment losses in excess of specified amounts; however, Prudential Financial has no other reimbursement obligations to the external counterparties under this facility. As of December 31, 2014, an aggregate of $1,838 million of surplus notes were outstanding under the facility and no credit-linked note payments have been required.
In December  2014, a captive reinsurance subsidiary entered into a ten-year financing facility with certain unaffiliated financial institutions and a special purpose affiliate, pursuant to which the captive agreed to issue and sell a surplus note in an aggregate principal amount of up to $1.75 billion in return for an equal principal amount of credit linked notes issued by athe special-purpose affiliate. The term of the financing facility may be extended, at the captive's option, by up to five years. The captive holds the credit-linked notes as assets supporting non-economic reserves required to be held by the Company's domestic insurance subsidiaries under Regulation XXX in connection with the reinsurance of term life insurance policies through the captive. The principal amount of the outstanding credit-linked notes is redeemable by the captive in cash upon the occurrence of, and in an amount necessary to remedy, a specified liquidity stress event affecting the captive. Under the agreements, external counterparties have agreed to fund any such payment under the credit-linked notes in return for a fee. Prudential Financial has agreed to make capital contributions to the captive to reimburse it for investment losses in excess of specified amounts. and has agreed to reimburse the external counterparties for any payments under the credit-linked notes that are funded by those counterparties. As of December 31, 2014, an aggregate of $385 million of surplus notes were outstanding under the facility and no credit-linked note payments have been required.
In December 2014, a captive reinsurance subsidiary entered into a financing facility with an unaffiliated financial institution and two special-purpose affiliates, pursuant to which the captive issued and sold $3.0 billion in principal amount of surplus notes in return for an equal principal amount of credit linked notes issued by the two special-purpose affiliates. One of the special-purpose affiliates also issued and sold to the unaffiliated financial institution $1.7 billion in principal amount of senior notes in exchange for cash. The maximum term of the financing is twenty years. The captive intends to hold the credit linked notes as assets supporting reserves required to be held by the Company's domestic insurance subsidiaries under Regulation XXX in connection with the reinsurance through the captive of term life insurance policies. This financing facility replaced the $3.0 billion facility for this captive initially entered into in 2006. The captive can redeem the credit linked notes in cash upon the occurrence of, and in an amount necessary to remedy, a liquidity stress event affecting the captive. The unaffiliated financial institution has agreed to fund any such payment under a portion of the credit linked notes in an aggregate amount of up to $1.0 billion, in return for the receipt of fees. The remaining obligations of the special-purpose affiliates to make such payments are supported by collateral held by those affiliates. Prudential Financial has agreed to make capital contributions to the captive and to the special-purpose affiliates to reimburse them for investment losses in excess of specified amounts. Prudential Financial has also agreed to reimburse the unaffiliated financial institution for any payments under the credit-linked notes funded by it and for any payments due but otherwise unpaid under the senior notes issued by the special-purpose affiliates.
Under each of the above transactions for the captive reinsurance subsidiaries, because valid rights of set-off exist, interest and principal payments on the surplus notes and on the credit-linked notes are settled on a net basis, and the surplus notes are reflected in the Company's total consolidated borrowings on a net basis.
Another captive reinsurance subsidiary has outstanding $500 million of surplus notes that were issued in 2007 with unaffiliated institutions to finance reserves required under Guideline AXXX. Prudential Financial has agreed to maintain the capital of this captive at or above a prescribed minimum level and has entered into arrangements (which are accounted for as derivative instruments) that require it to make certain payments in the event of deterioration in the value of the surplus notes. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no collateral postings made under these derivative instruments.
The surplus notes for the captive reinsurance subsidiaries described above are subordinated to policyholder obligations, and the payment of principal on the surplus notes may only be made with prior approval of the Arizona Department of Insurance. The payment of interest on the surplus notes has been approved by the Arizona Department of Insurance, subject to its ability to withdraw that approval.
On February 18, 2015, Prudential Legacy Insurance Company of NJ (“PLIC”) entered into a twenty-year financing facility with certain unaffiliated financial institutions and Essex, LLC, a special-purpose company affiliate (“LLC”), pursuant to which PLIC may, at its option and subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, issue and sell to LLC up to $4 billion in aggregate principal amount of surplus notes, in return for an equal principal amount of credit linked notes issued by LLC. Upon issuance, PLIC would hold any credit linked notes as assets to finance future statutory surplus needs within PLIC. See Note 25 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.
Senior Notes
Medium-term notes. Prudential Financial maintains a Medium-Term Note, Series D program under its shelf registration statement with an authorized issuance capacity of $20 billion. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance of medium-term notes under this program was $13 billion, an increase of $0.3 billion from December 31, 2013, due to issuances of $1.8 billion, as presented in the below table, offset by $1.5 billion of maturities.
Issue Date			Face Value			Interest Rate		Maturity Date
			(in millions)
15-May-14			$	500		4.60%		15-May-44
15-May-14			$	700		3.50%		15-May-24
14-Aug-14			$	350		2.35%		15-Aug-19
August 14, 2014(1)			$	250		4.60%		15-May-44
These form part of the same series as the 4.600% notes issued on May 15, 2014 increasing the aggregate principal amount of those notes to $750 million.
Retail medium-term notes. Prudential Financial also maintains a retail medium-term notes program, including the InterNotesÒ program, under its shelf registration statement with an authorized issuance capacity of $5.0 billion. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance of retail notes was $375 million. Retail notes outstanding increased by $83 million from December 31, 2013 primarily due to the Company resuming issuances under the program in September 2014 and issuing $141 million of notes offset by maturities of $58 million of notes in 2014.
Asset-backed notes. On March 30, 2012, Prudential Insurance sold, in a Rule 144A private placement, $1.0 billion of 2.997% asset-backed notes with a final maturity of September 30, 2015. As of December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance of these notes was $750 million due to scheduled repayments. The notes are secured by the assets of a trust, consisting of approximately $2.8 billion aggregate principal balance of residential mortgage-backed securities deposited into the trust by Prudential Insurance. Payments of interest and principal on the notes will be made only to the extent of funds available to the trust in accordance with a priority of payments set forth in the indenture governing the notes. Prudential Financial guaranteed to the holders of the notes the timely payment of all principal and interest due on the notes and any “make-whole payments” that may become due as a result of the payment of principal on the notes prior to the scheduled payment date.
Funding Agreement Notes Issuance Program. The Company maintains a FANIP in which a statutory trust issues medium-term notes secured by funding agreements issued to the trust by Prudential Insurance. These obligations are included in “Policyholders' account balances” and not included in the foregoing table. See Notes 5 and 10 for further discussion of these obligations.
Mortgage debt. As of December 31, 2014, the Company's insurance subsidiaries had mortgage debt of $502 million that has recourse only to real estate property held for investment by those subsidiaries. This represents an increase of $306 million from December 31, 2013, due to new borrowings in 2014.
Junior Subordinated Notes
Prudential Financial's junior subordinated notes outstanding are considered hybrid securities that receive enhanced equity treatment from the rating agencies. Junior subordinated notes outstanding, along with their key terms, are as follows:
					Initial				Optional		Interest Rate
		Principal			Interest		Investor		Redemption		Subsequent to Optional		Scheduled	Final
Issue Date		Amount			Rate		Type		Date (1)		Redemption Date		Maturity Date	Maturity Date
	(in millions)
Jun-08		$	600		8.88%		Institutional		6/15/18		LIBOR + 5.00%		6/15/38	6/15/68
Aug-12		$	1,000		5.88%		Institutional		9/15/22		LIBOR + 4.175%		n/a	9/15/42
Nov-12		$	1,500		5.63%		Institutional		6/15/23		LIBOR + 3.920%		n/a	6/15/43
Dec-12		$	575		5.75%		Retail		12/4/17		5.75%		n/a	12/15/52
Mar-13		$	710		5.70%		Retail		3/15/18		5.70%		n/a	3/15/53
Mar-13		$	500		5.20%		Institutional		3/15/24		LIBOR + 3.040%		n/a	3/15/44
Represents the initial date on which the notes can be redeemed at par solely at the option of the Company, subject in the case of the 8.875% notes to compliance with a replacement capital covenant.
Prudential Financial has the right to defer interest payments on these notes for specified periods, typically 5-10 years without resulting in a default, during which time interest will be compounded. On or after the optional redemption dates, Prudential Financial may redeem the notes at par plus accrued and unpaid interest. Prior to those optional redemption dates, redemptions generally are subject to a make-whole price; however, the Company may redeem the notes prior to these dates at par upon the occurrence of certain events, such as, for the notes issued in 2012 and 2013, a future change in the regulatory capital treatment of the notes with respect to the Company.
Limited recourse notes. In the third and fourth quarters of 2014, Prudential Financial entered into financing transactions pursuant to which it issued $500 million of limited recourse notes and, in return, obtained $500 million of asset-backed notes issued by a designated series of a Delaware master trust. The asset backed notes mature from 2019 through 2021; however, the maturity date of a portion of the notes may be extended by the Company for up to three years, subject to conditions. The asset-backed notes were ultimately contributed to PRIAC, an insurance subsidiary, to finance statutory surplus, and PRIAC, in turn, paid cash dividends totaling $500 million to its parent, Prudential Insurance.
The master trust's payment obligations under each of the asset-backed notes are secured by corresponding payment obligations of a third party financial institution and a portfolio of specified assets that have an aggregate value at least equal to the principal amount of the applicable asset-backed note. The principal amount of each asset-backed note is payable to PRIAC in cash at any time upon demand by PRIAC or, if not earlier paid, at maturity. Each of the limited recourse notes obligates Prudential Financial to reimburse the applicable third party financial institution for any principal payments received on the corresponding asset-backed note, but there is no obligation to reimburse any portion of a principal payment that is needed by PRIAC to pay then current claims to its policyholders. Each limited recourse note bears interest at a rate equal to the rate on the corresponding asset-backed note, plus an amount representing fees payable to the applicable third party financial institution. As of December 31, 2014, no principal payments have been received or are currently due on the asset-backed notes and, as a result, there was no payment obligation under the limited recourse notes. Accordingly, the notes are not reflected in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements as of that date.
Prudential Holdings, LLC Notes
On December 18, 2001, the date of demutualization, Prudential Holdings, LLC (“PHLLC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Prudential Financial, issued $1,750 million in senior secured notes (the “IHC Debt”). PHLLC owns the capital stock of Prudential Insurance and does not have any operating businesses of its own. The IHC Debt represented senior secured obligations of PHLLC with limited recourse; neither Prudential Financial, Prudential Insurance nor any other affiliate was an obligor or guarantor on the IHC Debt.
Net proceeds from the IHC Debt amounted to $1,727 million, of which $1,218 million was distributed to Prudential Financial through a dividend on the date of demutualization for use in the Financial Services Businesses. In addition, $72 million was used to purchase a guaranteed investment contract to fund a portion of the financial guarantee insurance premium related to the IHC Debt. The remainder of the net proceeds was deposited to a restricted account within PHLLC, referred to as the Debt Service Coverage Account, and constitutes collateral for the IHC Debt.
On December 18, 2014, PHLLC redeemed the $1,600 million of IHC Debt representing the entire amount outstanding. The outstanding IHC Debt consisted of PHLLC's $237.75 million Series A Floating Rate Insured Notes due December 18, 2017 (the “Series A Notes”), $776.65 million 7.245% Series B Fixed Rate Insured Notes due December 18, 2023 (the “Series B Notes”) and $585.6 million 8.695% Series C Fixed Rate Notes due December 18, 2023 (the “Series C Notes”). The redemption of the IHC Debt was at a cash redemption price calculated for each series as provided in the indenture governing the IHC Debt, plus interest accrued to the redemption date. The redemption price for the Series A Notes was 100% of their outstanding principal amount, or $237.75 million. The redemption price for the Series B Notes and the Series C Notes was equal to the respective sums of the present values of the scheduled payments of principal and interest remaining outstanding at the redemption date until maturity. The present value was calculated by discounting the remaining principal and interest payments to maturity on a semiannual basis using a discount rate equal to a specified Treasury yield, as of December 15, 2014 plus 25 basis points for the Series B Notes and 50 basis points for the Series C Notes. The redemption prices were $1.0 billion, including a $248 million make-whole payment, for the Series B Notes and $786 million, including a $200 million make-whole payment, for the Series C Notes. The total $448 million make-whole payment for early redemption was recorded in interest expense in the Closed Block Business. Additionally, there was a cost of $61 million for terminating associated interest rate swaps. Upon completion of the redemption, no IHC Debt is outstanding.
Interest Expense
In order to modify exposure to interest rate and currency exchange rate movements, the Company utilizes derivative instruments, primarily interest rate swaps, in conjunction with some of its debt issues. The impact of these derivative instruments are not reflected in the rates presented in the tables above. For those derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting treatment, interest expense was increased by $22 million, $23 million and $16 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. See Note 21 for additional information on the Company's use of derivative instruments.
Interest expense for short-term and long-term debt was $1,934 million, $1,419 million and $1,389 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. This includes interest expense of $11 million, $6 million and $8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, reported in “Net investment income.”

Equity

Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity
Equity	15.    EQUITY
	On the date of demutualization, Prudential Financial completed an initial public offering of its Common Stock at an initial public offering price of $27.50 per share. The shares of Common Stock issued were in addition to shares of Common Stock the Company distributed to policyholders as part of the demutualization. The Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PRU” and, through December 31, 2014, has reflected the performance of the Financial Services Businesses. Also on the date of demutualization, Prudential Financial completed the sale, through a private placement, of 2.0 million shares of Class B Stock at a price of $87.50 per share. The Class B Stock is a separate class of common stock not publicly traded, which has reflected the performance of the Closed Block Business. The Company has outstanding two classes of common stock: the Common Stock and the Class B Stock.
	The changes in the number of Common Stock shares issued, held in treasury and outstanding are as follows for the periods indicated:
			Common Stock
					Held In
			Issued		Treasury		Outstanding
			(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011		660.1		192.1		468
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		11.5		-11.5
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-6.5		6.5
	Balance, December 31, 2012		660.1		197.1		463
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		10		-10
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-8.1		8.1
	Balance, December 31, 2013		660.1		199		461.1
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		11.6		-11.6
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-5.3		5.3
	Balance, December 31, 2014		660.1		205.3		454.8
	Represents net shares issued from treasury pursuant to the Company's stock-based compensation programs.
	Common Stock and Class B Stock
	On the date of demutualization, Prudential Financial completed an initial public offering of its Common Stock at an initial public offering price of $27.50 per share. The shares of Common Stock issued were in addition to shares of Common Stock the Company distributed to policyholders as part of the demutualization. The Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PRU.” Also on the date of demutualization, Prudential Financial completed the sale, through a private placement, of 2.0 million shares of Class B Stock at a price of $87.50 per share. The Class B Stock is a separate class of common stock which is not publicly traded. The Common Stock reflects the performance of the Financial Services Businesses and the Class B Stock reflects the performance of the Closed Block Business.
	Holders of Common Stock have no interest in a separate legal entity representing the Financial Services Businesses and holders of the Class B Stock have no interest in a separate legal entity representing the Closed Block Business and holders of each class of common stock are subject to all of the risks associated with an investment in the Company.
	In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Company, holders of Common Stock and holders of Class B Stock would be entitled to receive a proportionate share of the net assets of the Company that remain after paying all liabilities and the liquidation preferences of any preferred stock.
	Common Stock Held in Treasury
	Common Stock held in treasury is accounted for at average cost. Gains resulting from the reissuance of “Common Stock held in treasury” are credited to “Additional paid-in capital.” Losses resulting from the reissuance of “Common Stock held in treasury” are charged first to “Additional paid-in capital” to the extent the Company has previously recorded gains on treasury share transactions, then to “Retained earnings.”
	In June 2012, Prudential Financial's Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase at management's discretion up to $1.0 billion of its outstanding Common Stock from July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013. Under this authorization, 6.6 million shares of the Company's Common Stock were repurchased at a total cost of $400 million, of which 3.9 million shares were repurchased in the first six months of 2013 at a total cost of $250 million.
	In June 2013, Prudential Financial's Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase at management's discretion up to $1.0 billion of its outstanding Common Stock from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014. Under this authorization, 12.0 million shares of the Company's Common Stock were repurchased at a total cost of $1.0 billion, of which 5.9 million shares were repurchased in the first six months of 20142013 at a total cost of $500 million.
	In June 2014, Prudential Financial's Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase at management's discretion up to $1.0 billion of its outstanding Common Stock from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 20154. As of December 31, 2014, 5.7 million shares of the Company's Common Stock were repurchased under this authorization at a total cost of $500 million.
	The timing and amount of share repurchases are determined by management based upon market conditions and other considerations, and repurchases may be effected in the open market, through derivative, accelerated repurchase and other negotiated transactions and through prearranged trading plans complying with Rule 10b5-1(c) under the Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). Numerous factors could affect the timing and amount of any future repurchases under the share repurchase authorization, including increased capital needs of the Company due to changes in regulatory capital requirements, opportunities for growth and acquisitions, and the effect of adverse market conditions on the segments.
	Class B Stock Held in Treasury
	The Company had 2.0 million shares of Class B Stock issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013. On December 1, 2014, Prudential Financial entered into a Share Repurchase Agreement with the Class B Hholders of the Class B Stock. As a result, all of the outstanding 2.0 million shares of Class B Stock were reclassified as “held in treasury,” and a reduction to “Total Prudential Financial, Inc. equity” was recorded for the Closed Block Business in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. On January 2, 2015, the Company repurchased and cancelled all of the outstanding 2.0 million shares of the Class B Stock for an aggregate cash purchase price of $650.8 million, resulting in the elimination of the Class B Stock held in treasury, a $483.8 million decrease in “Retained earnings” and a $167.0 million decrease in “Additional paid-in capital.” See Note 1 and Note 25 for additional information.
	Stock Conversion Rights of the Class B Stock
	Prudential Financial may, at its option, at any time, exchange all outstanding shares of Class B Stock into such number of shares of Common Stock as have an aggregate average market value equal to 120% of the appraised fair market value of the outstanding shares of Class B Stock.
	Holders of Class B Stock will be permitted to convert their shares of Class B Stock into such number of shares of Common Stock as have an aggregate average market value equal to 100% of the appraised fair market value of the outstanding shares of Class B Stock (1) in the holder's sole discretion, beginning on January 1, 2016, and (2) at any time in the event that (a) the Class B Stock is no longer treated as equity of Prudential Financial for federal income tax purposes or (b) the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance changes the regulation of the Closed Block, the Closed Block Business, the Class B Stock or the IHC debt in a manner that materially adversely affects the “CB Distributable Cash Flow” (described below); provided, however, that a holder of Class B Stock may not convert its shares if such holder would become, upon such conversion, the beneficial owner (as defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) of over 9.9% of the total outstanding voting power of Prudential Financial's voting securities. In the event a holder of shares of Class B Stock requests to convert shares pursuant to clause (2)(a) in the preceding sentence, Prudential Financial may elect, instead of effecting such conversion, to increase the Target Dividend Amount of the Class B Stock from $9.625 to $12.6875 per share per annum, retroactively from the time of issuance of the Class B Stock.
	Preferred Stock
	As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no preferred stock outstanding.
	Dividends
	The declaration and payment of dividends on the Common Stock is limited by New Jersey corporate law, pursuant to which Prudential Financial is prohibited from paying a Common Stock dividend if, after giving effect to that dividend, either (a) the Company would be unable to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of its business or (b) the Company's total assets would be less than its liabilities. This limitation is applied both as if the Financial Services Businesses were a separate corporation and on a consolidated basis after taking into account dividends on the Class B Stock. In addition, the terms of the Company's outstanding junior subordinated debt include a “dividend stopper” provision that restricts the payment of dividends on the Common Stock and Class B Stock if interest payments are not made on the junior subordinated debt. The terms of the Class B Stock also restrict dividends on the Common Stock in certain circumstances as described below. Further, as a Designated Financial Company under Dodd-Frank, Prudential Financial is to be subject to minimum risk-based capital and leverage requirements and to the submission of annual capital plans to the FRBBoard of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Prudential Financial's compliance with these and other requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act could limit its ability to pay Common Stock dividends in the future.
	As of December 31, 2014December 31, 2013, the Company's U.S. GAAP retained earnings were $14,888 million. Other than the above limitations, this amount is free of restrictions for the payment of Common Stock dividends. However, Common Stock dividends will be dependent upon the financial conditions, results of operations, cash needs, future prospects and other factors relating to the Financial Services Businesses, including cash available to Prudential Financial, the parent holding company. The principal sources of funds available to Prudential Financial are dividends and returns of capital from its subsidiaries, repayments of operating loans from its subsidiaries and cash and short-term investments. The primary uses of funds at Prudential Financial include servicing its debt, operating expenses, capital contributions and loans to subsidiaries, the payment of declared shareholder dividends and repurchases of outstanding shares of Common Stock if executed under Board authority. As of December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial had cash and short term investments, excluding amounts held in an intercompany liquidity account, of $4,316 million.
	Future cash available at Prudential Financial to support the payment of future Common Stock dividends is dependent on the receipt of dividends or other funds from its subsidiaries, the majority of which are subject to comprehensive regulation, including limitations on their payment of dividends and other transfers of funds, which are discussed below.
	With respect to Prudential Insurance, the Company's primary domestic insurance subsidiary, New Jersey insurance law provides that, except in the case of extraordinary dividends (as described below), all dividends or other distributions paid by Prudential Insurance may be paid only from unassigned surplus, as determined pursuant to statutory accounting principles, less cumulative unrealized investment gains and losses and revaluation of assets as of the prior calendar year-end. As of December 31, 2014, Prudential Insurance's unassigned surplus was $7,396 million, and it recorded applicable adjustments for cumulative unrealized investment gains of $3,071 million. Prudential Insurance must give prior notification to the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (“NJDOBI”) of its intent to pay any such dividend or distribution. Also, if any dividend, together with other dividends or distributions made within the preceding twelve months, exceeds the greater of (i) 10% of Prudential Insurance's statutory surplus as of the preceding December 31 ($10,331 million as of December 31, 2014) or (ii) its statutory net gain from operations excluding realized investment gains and losses for the twelve-month period ending on the preceding December 31 ($731 million for the year ended December 31, 2014), the dividend is considered to be an “extraordinary dividend” and requires the prior approval of NJDOBI. Under New Jersey insurance law, Prudential Insurance is permitted to pay a dividend of $1,033 million after December 12, in 20154 without prior approval of NJDOBI.
	The laws regulating dividends of the states where the Company's other domestic insurance subsidiaries are domiciled are similar, but not identical, to New Jersey's. Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation (“PALAC”), an Arizona-domiciled insurer that is a subsidiary of Prudential Financial, is permitted to pay a dividend of $61 million after December 19,in 2015 with prior notification to the Arizona Department of Insurance.
	The laws regulating dividends of the states where the Company's other domestic insurance subsidiaries are domiciled are similar, but not identical, to New Jersey's. Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation (“PALAC”), an Arizona-domiciled insurer that is a direct subsidiary of Prudential Financial, is permitted to pay a dividend of $61 million in 2014 with prior notification to the Arizona Department of Insurance.
	The Company's international insurance operations are subject to dividend restrictions from the regulatory authorities in the jurisdictions in which they operate. With respect to The Prudential Life Insurance Company Ltd. (“Prudential of Japan”) and Gibraltar Life, the Company's most significant international insurance subsidiaries, both of which are domiciled in Japan, Japan insurance law provides that common stock dividends may be paid in an amount of up to 83% of prior fiscal year statutory after-tax earnings, after certain reserving thresholds are met, including providing for policyholder dividends. If statutory retained earnings exceed 100% of statutory paid-in-capital, 100% of prior year statutory after-tax earnings may be paid, after reserving thresholds are met. Dividends in excess of these amounts and other forms of capital distribution require the prior approval of the Japan Financial Services Agency (“FSA”). Additionally, Prudential of Japan and Gibraltar Life must give prior notification to the FSA of their intent to pay any dividend or distribution. In 2013, Prudential of Japan paid a dividend of ¥25.0 billion, or $255 million, of which approximately $249 million was ultimately paid to Prudential Financial. Prudential of Japan has met the statutory retained earnings level necessary to dividend up to 100% of prior year statutory after-tax earnings. Prudential of Japan's and Gibraltar Life's current regulatory fiscal year will end March 31, 20154, at which time the common stock dividend amount permitted to be paid without prior approval from the FSA will be determinable. In 2014, Prudential of Japan did not declare a dividend. Although Gibraltar Life may be able to pay common stock dividends under applicable legal and regulatory restrictions, itGibraltar Life may return capital through other means, such as the repayment of subordinated debt or preferred stock obligations held by Prudential Financial or affiliates. The prior approval of the FSA is required for such capital distributions.
	In addition, although prior regulatory approval may not be required by law for the payment of dividends up to the limitations described above, in practice, the Company would typically discuss any dividend payments with the applicable regulatory authority prior to payment. Additionally, the payment of dividends by the Company's subsidiaries is subject to declaration by their Board of Directors and may be affected by market conditions and other factors.
	The declaration and payment of dividends on the Class B Stock depends upon the financial performance of the Closed Block Business and, as the Closed Block matures, the holders of the Class B Stock will receive the surplus of the Closed Block Business no longer required to support the Closed Block for regulatory purposes. In addition, dividends on the Class B Stock are payable in an aggregate amount per year at least equal to the lesser of (1) a Target Dividend Amount of $19.25 million or (2) the “CB Distributable Cash Flow” for such year, which is a measure of the net cash flows of the Closed Block Business. Notwithstanding this formula, as with any common stock, Prudential Financial retains the flexibility to suspend dividends on the Class B Stock; however, if CB Distributable Cash Flow exists and Prudential Financial chooses not to pay dividends on the Class B Stock in an aggregate amount at least equal to the lesser of the CB Distributable Cash Flow or the Target Dividend Amount for any period, then cash dividends cannot be paid on the Common Stock with respect to such period.
	Statutory Net Income, Capital and Surplus
	The Company's domestic insurance subsidiaries are required to prepare statutory financial statements in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the insurance department of the state of domicile. These subsidiaries do not utilize prescribed or permitted practices that vary materially from the statutory accounting practices prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”). Statutory accounting practices primarily differ from U.S. GAAP by charging policy acquisition costs to expense as incurred, establishing future policy benefit liabilities using different actuarial assumptions as well as valuing investments and certain assets and accounting for deferred taxes on a different basis. Statutory net income (loss) of Prudential Insurance amounted to $901 million, $1,358 million and $1,382 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Statutory capital and surplus of Prudential Insurance amounted to $10,331 million and $9,383 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Statutory net income (loss) of PALAC amounted to $393 million, $406 million and $217 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Statutory capital and surplus of PALAC amounted to $606 million and $443 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The Risk-Based Capital (“RBC”) ratio is a primary measure by which the Company and its insurance regulators evaluate the capital adequacy of Prudential Insurance and the Company's other domestic insurance subsidiaries. The RBC ratio for Prudential Insurance includes both the Financial Services Businesses and Closed Block Business. RBC is determined by NAIC-prescribed formulas that consider, among other things, risks related to the type and quality of the invested assets, insurance-related risks associated with an insurer's products and liabilities, interest rate risks and general business risks. If a subsidiary's Total Adjusted Capital (“TAC”), as calculated in a manner prescribed by the NAIC, falls below the Company Action Level RBC, corrective action is required. As of December 31, 20143, Prudential Insurance and PALAC both had Total Adjusted CapitalTAC levels in excess of 4.0 times the regulatory required minimums that would require corrective action.
	The Company's international insurance subsidiaries prepare financial statements in accordance with local regulatory requirements, and they do not utilize regulatory accounting practices that vary materially from the applicable prescribed regulatory accounting practices. These statutory accounting practices differ from U.S. GAAP primarily by charging policy acquisition costs to expense as incurred and establishing future policy benefit liabilities using different actuarial assumptions, as well as valuing investments and certain assets and accounting for deferred taxes on a different basis.
	The FSA utilizes a solvency margin ratio to evaluate the capital adequacy of Japanese insurance companies. The solvency margin ratio considers the level of solvency margin capital to a solvency margin risk amount, which is calculated in a similar manner to RBC. As of December 31, 20143, Prudential of Japan and Gibraltar Life both had solvency margin capital in excess of 3.5 times the regulatory required minimums that would require corrective action.
	All of the Company's domestic and international insurance subsidiaries have capital and surplus levels that exceed their respective regulatory minimum requirements.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	The balance of and changes in each component of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.” for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.
				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment			Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)(1)			Pension and Postretirement Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit (Cost)			Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
				(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011			$	1,107		$	5,805		$	-1,667		$	5,245
	Change in other comprehensive income
		before reclassifications			-303			8,596			-800			7,493
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI				6			36			101			143
	Income tax benefit (expense)				118			-3,035			250			-2,667
Balance, December 31, 2012				928			11,402			-2,116			10,214
Change in other comprehensive income
	before reclassifications			-1,465			-1,239			749			-1,955
Amounts reclassified from AOCI				4			-289			125			-160
Income tax benefit (expense)				420			470			-308			582
Balance, December 31, 2013				-113			10,344			-1,550			8,681
Change in other comprehensive income
	before reclassifications			-1,066			15,490			-1,134			13,290
Amounts reclassified from AOCI				-3			-1,760			91			-1,672
Income tax benefit (expense)				207			-4,823			367			-4,249
Balance, December 31, 2014			$	-975		$	19,251		$	-2,226		$	16,050
(1) Includes cash flow hedges of $206 million, ($446) million and ($257) million as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
							Years Ended December 31,						Affected line item in Consolidated
							2014			2013			Statements of Operations
							(in millions)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI (1)(2):
Foreign currency translation adjustment:
	Foreign currency translation adjustment						$	3		$	0		Realized investment gains (losses), net
	Foreign currency translation adjustment							0			-4		Other income
		Total foreign currency translation adjustment						3			-4
Net unrealized investment gains (losses):
	Cash flow hedges - Interest Rate							-60			-24		-3
	Cash flow hedges - Currency/Interest rate							114			-104		-3
	Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
	on available-for-sale securities							1,706			351
	Net unrealized investment gains (losses) - all other							0			66
		Total net unrealized investment gains (losses)						1,760			289		-4
Amortization of defined benefit items:
	Prior service cost							20			22		-5
	Actuarial gain (loss)							-111			-147		-5
		Total amortization of defined benefit items						-91			-125
				Total reclassifications for the period			$	1,672		$	160
All amounts are shown before tax.
Positive amounts indicate gains/benefits reclassified out of AOCI. Negative amounts indicate losses/costs reclassified out of AOCI.
See Note 21 for additional information on cash flow hedges.
See table below for additional information on unrealized investment gains (losses), including the impact on deferred policy acquisition and other costs, future policy benefits and policyholders' dividends.
See Note 18 for information on employee benefit plans.
Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)
Net unrealized investment gains and losses on securities classified as available-for-sale and certain other long-term investments and other assets are included in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as a component of AOCI. Changes in these amounts include reclassification adjustments to exclude from “Other comprehensive income (loss)” those items that are included as part of “Net income” for a period that had been part of “Other comprehensive income (loss)” in earlier periods. The amounts for the periods indicated below, split between amounts related to fixed maturity securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized, and all other net unrealized investment gains and losses, are as follows:
Net Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses on Fixed Maturity Securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized
								Deferred
								Policy
								Acquisition										Accumulated
								Costs,			Future							Other
								Deferred			Policy							Comprehensive
					Net			Sales			Benefits							Income (Loss)
					Unrealized			Inducements,			and					Deferred		Related To Net
					Gains (Losses)			and Value			Policyholders'					Income Tax		Unrealized
					on			of Business			Account			Policyholders'		(Liability)		Investment
					Investments			Acquired			Balances			Dividends		Benefit		Gains (Losses)
					(in millions)
Balance, December 31, 2011					$	-1,003		$	13		$	14		$	466	$	178	$	-332
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					590											-207		383
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					312											-109		203
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(1)					-93											33		-60
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								-10								4		-6
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											-11					5		-6
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-327		114		-213
Balance, December 31, 2012					$	-194		$	3		$	3		$	139	$	18	$	-31
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					242											-85		157
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					70											-25		45
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(1)					-8											3		-5
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								-8								3		-5
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											1							1
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-75		26		-49
Balance, December 31, 2013					$	110		$	-5		$	4		$	64	$	-60	$	113
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					196											-69		127
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					47											-16		31
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(1)					-4											1		-3
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								-1										-1
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											-1							-1
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-96		34		-62
Balance, December 31, 2014					$	349		$	-6		$	3		$	-32	$	-110	$	204
Represents “transfers in” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses in AOCI
								Deferred
								Policy
								Acquisition										Accumulated
								Costs,			Future							Other
								Deferred			Policy							Comprehensive
					Net			Sales			Benefits							Income (Loss)
					Unrealized			Inducements,			and					Deferred		Related To Net
					Gains (Losses)			and Value			Policyholders'					Income Tax		Unrealized
					on			of Business			Account			Policyholders'		(Liability)		Investment
					Investments(1)			Acquired			Balances			Dividends		Benefit		Gains (Losses)
					(in millions)
Balance, December 31, 2011					$	15,748		$	-1,179		$	-1,270		$	-4,319	$	-2,843	$	6,137
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					9,586											-3,373		6,213
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					-276											97		-179
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(2)					93											-32		61
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								-49								17		-32
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											126					-43		83
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-1,308		458		-850
Balance, December 31, 2012					$	25,151		$	-1,228		$	-1,144		$	-5,627	$	-5,719	$	11,433
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					-4,306											1,443		-2,863
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					-359											126		-233
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(2)					8											-3		5
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								509								-178		331
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											465					-164		301
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														1,933		-676		1,257
Balance, December 31, 2013					$	20,494		$	-719		$	-679		$	-3,694	$	-5,171	$	10,231
Net investment gains (losses) on
	investments arising during the
	period					18,073											-6,337		11,736
Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
	losses included in net income					-1,807											632		-1,175
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
	losses excluded from net income(2)					4											-1		3
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on deferred policy
	acquisition costs, deferred sales
	inducements and value of
	business acquired								-736								254		-482
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											-603					211		-392
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-1,342		468		-874
Balance, December 31, 2014					$	36,764		$	-1,455		$	-1,282		$	-5,036	$	-9,944	$	19,047
Includes cash flow hedges. See Note 21 for information on cash flow hedges.
Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share	16.    EARNINGS PER SHARE
	From demutualization through the periods ended December 31, 2014, the Company has had two separate classes of common stock. The Common Stock has reflected the performance of the Financial Services Businesses and the Class B Stock has reflected the performance of the Closed Block Business. On December 1, 2014, Prudential Financial entered into a Share Repurchase Agreement with the Class B Holders pursuant to which it repurchased and cancelled, on January 2, 2015, all of the outstanding 2.0 million shares of the Class B Stock for an aggregate cash purchase price of $650.8 million. See Note 1 and Note 25 for additional information.
	For reporting periods through December 31, 2014, earnings per share have been calculated separately for each of these two classes of common stock. For reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, earnings per share of Common Stock will reflect the consolidated earnings of Prudential Financial.
	Net income for the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business is determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP and includes general and administrative expenses charged to each of the respective businesses based on the Company's methodology for the allocation of such expenses. Cash flows between the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business related to administrative expenses have been determined by a policy servicing fee arrangement that is based upon insurance and policies in force and statutory cash premiums. To the extent reported administrative expenses varied from these cash flow amounts, the differences have been recorded, on an after tax basis, as direct equity adjustments to the equity balances of the businesses. The direct equity adjustments have modified the earnings available to each of the classes of common stock for earnings per share purposes. The Class B Repurchase resulted in the elimination of the separation of the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business. As a result, for reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, the direct equity adjustments will no longer be recorded.
	Common Stock
	A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for the years ended December 31, is as follows:
				2014							2013								2012
				Income		Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income			Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income		Weighted Average Shares		Per Share Amount
					(in millions, except per share amounts)
	Basic earnings per share
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses		$	1,579						$	-613							$	512
	Direct equity adjustment				-27							2								20
	Less: Income attributable to
		noncontrolling interests			57							107								50
	Less: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards			14							8								7
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses
		available to holders of Common
		Stock after direct equity
		adjustment		$	1,481	458.5		$	3.23		$	-726		463.1		$	-1.57		$	475	465.6	$	1.02
	Effect of dilutive securities and
		compensation programs(1)
	Add: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards - Basic		$	14						$	8							$	7
	Less: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards - Diluted			14							8								7
	Stock options					3								0							1.9
	Deferred and long-term
		compensation programs				0.8								0							0.6
	Exchangeable Surplus Notes				17	5.4						0		0						0	0
	Diluted earnings per share(1)(2)
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses
		available to holders of Common
		Stock after direct equity
		adjustment		$	1,498	467.7		$	3.2		$	-726		463.1		$	-1.57		$	475	468.1	$	1.01
	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, weighted average shares for basic earnings per share is also used for calculating diluted earnings per share because dilutive shares and dilutive earnings per share are not applicable when a loss from continuing operations is reported. As a result of the loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, all potential stock options and compensation programs were considered antidilutive.
	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, weighted average shares used for calculating diluted earnings per share excludes the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes since the hypothetical impact of these shares was antidilutive. In calculating diluted earnings per share under the if-converted method, the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes assuming a hypothetical exchange, weighted for the period the notes are outstanding, is added to the denominator, and interest expense, net of tax, is added to the numerator, if the overall effect is dilutive.
	Unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends are participating securities and included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method. Under this method, earnings of the Financial Services Businesses attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. are allocated between Common Stock and the participating awards, as if the awards were a second class of stock. During periods of income from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment, the calculation of earnings per share exclude the income attributable to participating securities in the numerator and the dilutive impact of these securities from the denominator. In the event of loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment, undistributed earnings are not allocated to participating securities and the denominator excludes the dilutive impact of these securities as they do not share in the losses of the Company. For 2013, undistributed earnings were not allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards as these awards do not participate in losses. Undistributed earnings allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2012 were based on 4.3 million and 4.6 million of such awards, respectively, weighted for the period they were outstanding.
	Stock options and shares related to deferred and long-term compensation programs that are considered antidilutive are excluded from the computation of dilutive earnings per share. Stock options are considered antidilutive based on application of the treasury stock method or in the event of loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment. Shares related to deferred and long-term compensation programs are considered antidilutive in the event of loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment. For the years ended December 31, the number of stock options and shares related to deferred and long-term compensation programs that were considered antidilutive and were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share, weighted for the portion of the period they were outstanding, are as follows:
				2014					2013						2012
					Shares		Exercise Price Per Share			Shares			Exercise Price Per Share			Shares			Exercise Price Per Share
					(in millions, except per share amounts, based on weighted average)
	Antidilutive stock options based on application of the
		treasury stock method			1.9	$	90.3			6.6		$	73.51			13.3		$	69.8
	Antidilutive stock options due to loss from continuing
		operations available to holders of Common Stock
		after direct equity adjustment			0					12.2						0
	Antidilutive shares due to loss from continuing operations
		available to holders of Common Stock after direct
		equity adjustment			0					5.2						0
			Total antidilutive stock options and shares		1.9					24						13.3
	In September 2009, the Company issued $500 million of surplus notes with an interest rate of 5.36% per annum which are exchangeable at the option of the note holders for shares of Common Stock. The initial exchange rate for the surplus notes was 10.1235 shares of Common Stock per each $1,000 principal amount of surplus notes, which represents an initial exchange price per share of Common Stock of $98.78; however, the exchange rate is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments. In calculating diluted earnings per share under the if-converted method, the potential shares that would be issued assuming a hypothetical exchange, weighted for the period the notes are outstanding, are added to the denominator, and interest expense, net of tax, is added to the numerator, if the overall effect is dilutive.
Class B Stock
Income from continuing operations per share of Class B Stock for the years ended December 31, are presented below. There are no potentially dilutive shares associated with the Class B Stock.
			2014							2013								2012
			Income		Weighted Average Shares(1)			Per Share Amount		Income			Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income		Weighted Average Shares		Per Share Amount
			(in millions, except per share amounts)
Basic earnings per share
Income (loss) from continuing
	operations attributable to the
	Closed Block Business		$	-153						$	46							$	43
Less: Direct equity adjustment				-27							2								20
Income (loss) from continuing
	operations attributable to the
	Closed Block Business
	available to holders of Class B
	Stock after direct equity
	adjustment		$	-126	1.8		$	-70		$	44		2		$	22		$	23	2	$	11.5
For the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, weighted average shares reflect the reclassification on December 1, 2014 of the 2.0 million shares previously outstanding to “held in treasury,” as a result of the Share Repurchase Agreement between Prudential Financial and the Class B Holders.

ShareBased_Payments

Share-Based Payments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-based Payments	17.    SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS
	Omnibus Incentive Plan
	The Prudential Financial, Inc. Omnibus Incentive Plan (as subsequently amended and restated, the “Omnibus Plan”) provides stock based awards including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock shares, restricted stock units, stock settled performance shares, and cash settled performance units. Dividend equivalents are generally provided on restricted stock shares and restricted stock units outstanding as of the record date. Dividend equivalents are generally accrued on target performance shares and units outstanding as of the record date. These dividend equivalents are paid only on the shares and units released up to a maximum of the target number of shares and units awarded. Generally, the requisite service period is the vesting period. As of December 31, 2014, 11,597,104 authorized shares remain available for grant under the Omnibus Plan.
	Compensation Costs
	Compensation cost for employee stock options is based on the fair values estimated on the grant date, using the approach and assumptions described below. Compensation cost for restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units granted to employees is measured by the share price of the underlying Common Stock at the date of grant.
	The fair value of each stock option award is estimated using a binomial option-pricing model on the date of grant for stock options issued to employees. The weighted average grant date assumptions used in the binomial option valuation model are as follows:
			2014			2013			2012
	Expected volatility			35.52	%		36.44	%		41.8	%
	Expected dividend yield			2.7	%		3	%		3	%
	Expected term			5.63 years			5.52 years			5.44 years
	Risk-free interest rate			1.74	%		1.01	%		0.93	%
	Expected volatilities are based on historical volatility of the Company's Common Stock and implied volatilities from traded options on the Company's Common Stock. The Company uses historical data and expectations of future exercise patterns to estimate option exercises and employee terminations within the valuation model. The expected term of options granted represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate for periods associated with the expected term of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
	The following chart summarizes the compensation cost recognized and the related income tax benefit for stock options, restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units for the years ended December 31:
				2014						2013					2012
				Total Compensation Cost Recognized			Income Tax Benefit			Total Compensation Cost Recognized			Income Tax Benefit		Total Compensation Cost Recognized		Income Tax Benefit
				(in millions)
	Employee stock options			$	25		$	9		$	43		$	15	$	45	$	16
	Employee restricted stock units				95			34			88			32		84		30
	Employee performance shares and
		performance units			46			17			86			31		26		9
		Total		$	166		$	60		$	217		$	78	$	155	$	55
	Compensation costs for all stock based compensation plans capitalized in deferred acquisition costs for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were de minimis.
	Stock Options
	Each stock option granted has an exercise price no less than the fair market value of the Company's Common Stock on the date of grant and has a maximum term of 10 years. Generally, one third of the option grant vests in each of the first three years.
	A summary of the status of the Company's stock option grants is as follows:
				Employee Stock Options
					Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013				14,994,449		$	62.79
		Granted			694,019			84.5
		Exercised			-3,380,297			59.3
		Forfeited			-19,498			58.36
		Expired			-57,176			88.75
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014				12,231,497		$	64.88
	Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2014				12,161,071		$	64.85
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014				8,680,804		$	65.66
	The weighted average grant date fair value of employee stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $21.65, $13.72 and $16.36, respectively.
	The total intrinsic value (i.e., market price of the stock less the option exercise price) of employee stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $97 million, $146 million, and $66 million, respectively.
	The weighted average remaining contractual term and the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding, vested and expected to vest and exercisable as of December 31, 2014 is as follows:
				31-Dec-14
				Employee Stock Options
					Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term			Aggregate Intrinsic Value
					(in years)			(in millions)
	Outstanding				5.03		$	315
	Vested and expected to vest				5.01		$	313
	Exercisable				3.99		$	217
	Restricted Stock Units, Performance Share Awards and Performance Unit Awards
	A restricted stock unit is an unfunded, unsecured right to receive a share of the Company's Common Stock at the end of a specified period of time, which is subject to forfeiture and transfer restrictions. Generally, the restrictions will lapse on the third anniversary of the date of grant. Performance shares and performance units are awards denominated in the Company's Common Stock. The number of units is determined over the performance period, and may be adjusted based on the satisfaction of certain performance goals for the Company's Financial Services Businesses. Performance share awards are payable in the Company's Common Stock. Performance unit awards are payable in cash.
	A summary of the Company's restricted stock units and performance shares and performance unit awards is as follows:
				Restricted Stock Units		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value			Performance Share and Performance Unit Awards(1)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Restricted at December 31, 2013(2)			4,364,106		$	59.93		1,012,990		$	92.22
		Granted(2)		1,295,137			84.56		461,646			90.46
		Forfeited		-78,877			67.46		-16,381			84.3
		Performance adjustment(3)							75,338			84.53
		Released		-1,377,475			63.19		-358,792			84.53
	Restricted at December 31, 2014(2)			4,202,891		$	66.31		1,174,801		$	90.46
	Performance share and performance unit awards reflect the target units awarded, reduced for forfeitures and releases to date. The actual number of units to be awarded at the end of each performance period will range between 0% and 150% of the target number of units granted for performance periods beginning prior to 2014 and between 0% and 125% thereafter, based upon a measure of the reported performance for the Company's Financial Services Businesses relative to stated goals.
	For performance share and performance unit awards, the grant date is the same as the date the grant vests. The features of the grant are such that a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award between the employee and employer have not been reached until the grant is vested. Consequently, the weighted average grant date fair value as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is the closing stock price of Prudential Financial's common stock on those dates.
	Represents the difference between the target units granted and the actual units awarded based upon the attainment of performance goals for the Company's Financial Services Businesses.
	The fair market value of restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units released for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $145 million, $106 million and $196 million, respectively.
	The weighted average grant date fair value for restricted stock units granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $84.56, $57.94 and $58.89, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value for performance shares and performance units granted during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $90.46, $92.22 and $53.33, respectively.
	The number of restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units expected to vest at December 31, 2014 is 5,454,817.
	Unrecognized Compensation Cost
	Unrecognized compensation cost for stock options as of December 31, 2014 was $8 million with a weighted average recognition period of 0.90 years. Unrecognized compensation cost for restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units as of December 31, 2014 was $93 million with a weighted average recognition period of 1.43 years.
	Tax Benefits Realized
The tax benefit realized for exercises of stock options during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $35 million, $51 million and $21 million, respectively.
The tax benefit realized upon vesting of restricted stock units, performance shares and performance units for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $51 million, $38 million and $69 million, respectively.
Settlement of Awards
The Company's policy is to issue shares from Common Stock held in treasury upon exercise of stock options, the release of restricted stock units and performance shares. The Company began settling performance units in cash beginning in 2013. The amount of cash used to settle performance units in 2014 and 2013 was $15 million and $10 million, respectively.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Benefit Plans
Employee Benefit Plans	18.    EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
	Pension and Other Postretirement Plans
	The Company has funded and non-funded non-contributory defined benefit pension plans, which cover substantially all of its employees. For some employees, benefits are based on final average earnings and length of service, while benefits for other employees are based on an account balance that takes into consideration age, service and earnings during their career.
	The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for its retired employees, their beneficiaries and covered dependents (“other postretirement benefits”). The health care plan is contributory; the life insurance plan is non-contributory. Substantially all of the Company's U.S. employees may become eligible to receive other postretirement benefits if they retire after age 55 with at least 10 years of service or under certain circumstances after age 50 with at least 20 years of continuous service.
	The Company updated its mortality assumption as of December 31, 2014 with respect to its measure of its domestic pension and postretirement obligations as a result of a review of plan experience following the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) final issuance in October 2014 of a study of rates of mortality and expected future improvement in mortality rates for U.S. participants. The foreign plans use the most current published mortality tables related to the foreign location.
	The Company's evaluation resulted in an increase in its domestic obligations for pensions and postretirement of $458 million or 4.9% and $124 million or 6.3%, respectively. The offset to these benefit obligation increases was recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAOCI as of December 31, 2014. The mortality assumption update will result in an increase in future benefit cost in 2015 of $76 million and $15 million for the pension and postretirement plans, respectively. The 2015 cost increases include additional amortization of actuarial losses for pension and postretirement of $51 million and $9 million, respectively.
	As a result of this mortality assumption change, future benefit payments are expected to increase and based upon the specific funding method for a given benefit plan, will be sourced primarily from existing plan assets or via employer contributions. The increases in the undiscounted expected cash outflows underlying the domestic benefit obligations are distributed whereby 8% occurs in the next ten years from December 31, 2014, 23% in the next ten year band and 69% in the remaining future years.
	The domestic obligations will increase further if actual mortality improvements are better than the assumption used. A 25% increase in the improvement scale would increase the domestic obligations by approximately $115 million at December 31, 2014.
	On December 6, 2013, the Company transferred $340 million of assets within the qualified pension plan under Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code from assets supporting pension benefits to assets supporting retiree medical and life benefits. The transfer resulted in a reduction to the prepaid benefit cost for the qualified pension plan and an offsetting decrease in the accrued benefit liability for the postretirement plan with no net effect on stockholders' equity on the Company's consolidated financial position. The transfer had no impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations, but will reduce the future cash contributions required to be made to the postretirement plan.
	Prepaid benefits costs and accrued benefit liabilities are included in “Other assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively, in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The status of these plans as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 is summarized below:
			Pension Benefits						Other Postretirement Benefits
			2014			2013			2014			2013
				(in millions)
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at the beginning of period		$	-10,886		$	-12,042		$	-2,102		$	-2,372
	Acquisition/Divestiture			0			0			0			-3
	Service cost			-234			-252			-17			-17
	Interest cost			-481			-437			-96			-89
	Plan participants’ contributions			0			0			-29			-28
	Medicare Part D subsidy receipts			0			0			-8			-12
	Amendments			1			-2			0			0
	Annuity purchase			0			1			0			0
	Actuarial gains/(losses), net			-1,804			844			-169			220
	Settlements			42			5			0			0
	Special termination benefits			-4			-2			0			0
	Benefits paid			620			691			184			200
	Foreign currency changes and other			201			308			4			-1
	Benefit obligation at end of period		$	-12,545		$	-10,886		$	-2,233		$	-2,102
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period		$	12,069		$	12,686		$	1,745		$	1,329
	Actual return on plan assets			1,515			266			120			244
	Annuity purchase			0			-1			0			0
	Employer contributions			165			206			7			18
	Plan participants’ contributions			0			0			29			28
	Disbursement for settlements			-42			-5			0			0
	Benefits paid			-620			-691			-184			-200
	Foreign currency changes and other			-59			-52			0			-14
	Effect of Section 420 transfer			0			-340			0			340
	Fair value of plan assets at end of period		$	13,028		$	12,069		$	1,717		$	1,745
	Funded status at end of period		$	483		$	1,183		$	-516		$	-357
	Amounts recognized in the Statements of Financial Position
	Prepaid benefit cost		$	2,828		$	3,354		$	0		$	0
	Accrued benefit liability			-2,345			-2,171			-516			-357
	Net amount recognized		$	483		$	1,183		$	-516		$	-357
	Items recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)"
	not yet recognized as a component of net periodic (benefit) cost:
	Transition obligation		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0
	Prior service cost			-42			-56			-8			-19
	Net actuarial loss			2,946			2,065			600			463
	Net amount not recognized		$	2,904		$	2,009		$	592		$	444
	Accumulated benefit obligation		$	-11,964		$	-10,374		$	-2,233		$	-2,102
	In addition to the plan assets above, the Company in 2007 established an irrevocable trust, commonly referred to as a “rabbi trust,” for the purpose of holding assets of the Company to be used to satisfy its obligations with respect to certain non-qualified retirement plans ($1,168 million and $918 million benefit obligation at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively). Assets held in the rabbi trust are available to the general creditors of the Company in the event of insolvency or bankruptcy. The Company may from time to time in its discretion make contributions to the trust to fund accrued benefits payable to participants in one or more of the plans, and, in the case of a change in control of the Company, as defined in the trust agreement, the Company will be required to make contributions to the trust to fund the accrued benefits, vested and unvested, payable on a pretax basis to participants in the plans. The Company made a discretionary payment of $95 million to the trust in 2014 and 2013. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the assets in the trust had a carrying value of $656 million and $561 million, respectively.
	The Company also maintains a separate rabbi trust for the purpose of holding assets of the Company to be used to satisfy its obligations with respect to certain other non-qualified retirement plans ($83 million and $73 million benefit obligation at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively), as well as certain cash-based deferred compensation arrangements. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the assets in the trust had a carrying value of $123 million and $116 million, respectively.
	Pension benefits for foreign plans comprised 13% and 16% of the ending benefit obligation for 2014 and 2013, respectively. Foreign pension plans comprised 5% of the ending fair value of plan assets for both 2014 and 2013. There are no material foreign postretirement plans.
	Information for pension plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
					2014			2013
						(in millions)
		Projected benefit obligation			$	2,379		$	2,457
		Fair value of plan assets			$	34		$	286
	Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
					2014			2013
						(in millions)
		Accumulated benefit obligation			$	2,164		$	2,258
		Fair value of plan assets			$	33		$	258
There were no purchases of annuity contracts in 2014 from Prudential Insurance. In 2013 the pension plans purchased annuity contracts from Prudential Insurance for $1 million. The approximate future annual benefit payment payable by Prudential Insurance for all annuity contracts was $21 million as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The Company uses market related value to determine components of net periodic (benefit) cost. Market related value recognizes certain changes in fair value of plan assets over a period of five years. Changes in the fair value of U.S Equities, International Equities, Real Estate and Other Assets are recognized over a five year period. However, the fair value for Fixed Maturity assets (including short term investments) are recognized immediately for the purposes of market related value.
Net periodic (benefit) cost included in “General and administrative expenses” in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, includes the following components:
		Pension Benefits									Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012
			(in millions)
Service cost		$	234		$	252		$	243		$	17		$	17		$	14
Interest cost			481			437			474			96			89			101
Expected return on plan assets			-712			-769			-809			-116			-87			-87
Amortization of transition obligation			0			0			0			0			0			1
Amortization of prior service cost			-10			-10			13			-10			-12			-12
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss, net			86			91			45			25			56			54
Settlements			10			0			9			0			0			0
Curtailments			0			0			0			0			0			0
Special termination benefits (1)			4			2			7			0			0			0
Net periodic (benefit) cost		$	93		$	3		$	-18		$	12		$	63		$	71
Certain employees were provided special termination benefits under non-qualified plans in the form of unreduced early retirement benefits as a result of their involuntary termination.
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The amounts recorded in AOCI as of the end of the period, which have not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic (benefit) cost, and the related changes in these items during the period that are recognized in OCI are as follows:
			Pension Benefits									Other Postretirement Benefits
			Transition Obligation			Prior Service Cost			Net Actuarial (Gain) Loss			Transition Obligation			Prior Service Cost			Net Actuarial (Gain) Loss
				(in millions)
Balance, December 31, 2011			$	0		$	-9		$	1,815		$	1		$	-42		$	861
	Amortization for the period			0			-13			-45			-1			12			-54
	Deferrals for the period			0			-62			810			0			0			81
	Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			3			-32			0			0			5
Balance, December 31, 2012				0			-81			2,548			0			-30			893
	Amortization for the period			0			10			-91			0			12			-56
	Deferrals for the period			0			2			-341			0			0			-377
	Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			13			-51			0			-1			3
Balance, December 31, 2013				0			-56			2,065			0			-19			463
	Amortization for the period			0			10			-86			0			10			-25
	Deferrals for the period			0			-1			1,001			0			0			165
	Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			5			-34			0			1			-3
Balance, December 31, 2014			$	0		$	-42		$	2,946		$	0		$	-8		$	600
The amounts included in AOCI expected to be recognized as components of net periodic (benefit) cost in 2015 are as follows:
			Pension Benefits			Other Postretirement Benefits
			(in millions)
Amortization of prior service cost			$	-8		$	-5
Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss, net				168			38
	Total		$	160		$	33
The Company's assumptions related to the calculation of the domestic benefit obligation (end of period) and the determination of net periodic (benefit) cost (beginning of period) are presented in the table below:
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014			2013		2012		2014		2013		2012
Weighted-average assumptions
Discount rate (beginning of period)			4.95%		4.05%		4.85%		4.75%		3.85%		4.60%
Discount rate (end of period)			4.10%		4.95%		4.05%		3.95%		4.75%		3.85%
Rate of increase in compensation levels (beginning of period)			4.50%		4.50%		4.50%		N/A		N/A		N/A
Rate of increase in compensation levels (end of period)			4.50%		4.50%		4.50%		N/A		N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets (beginning of period)			6.25%		6.25%		6.75%		7.00%		7.00%		7.00%
Health care cost trend rates (beginning of period)			N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00-7.08%		5.00-7.50%		5.00-7.50%
Health care cost trend rates (end of period)			N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00-6.66%		5.00-7.08%		5.00-7.50%
For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the ultimate health care cost trend rate after
	gradual decrease until: 2019, 2019, 2017, (beginning of period)		N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00%		5.00%		5.00%
For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the ultimate health care cost trend rate
	after gradual decrease until: 2019, 2019, 2019 (end of period)		N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00%		5.00%		5.00%
The domestic discount rate used to value the pension and postretirement obligations at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is based upon the value of a portfolio of Aa investments whose cash flows would be available to pay the benefit obligation's cash flows when due. The December 31, 2014 portfolio is selected from a compilation of approximately 740 Aa-rated bonds across the full range of maturities. Since yields can vary widely at each maturity point, the Company generally avoids using the highest and lowest yielding bonds at the maturity points, so as to avoid relying on bonds that might be mispriced or misrated. This refinement process generally results in having a distribution from the 10th to 90th percentile. The Aa portfolio is then selected and, accordingly, its value is a measure of the benefit obligation. A single equivalent discount rate is calculated to equate the value of the Aa portfolio to the cash flows for the benefit obligation. The result is rounded to the nearest 5 basis points and the benefit obligation is recalculated using the rounded discount rate.
The pension and postretirement expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for 2014 were determined based upon an approach that considered an expectation of the allocation of plan assets during the measurement period of 2014. Expected returns are estimated by asset class as noted in the discussion of investment policies and strategies below. Expected returns on asset classes are developed using a building-block approach that is forward looking and are not strictly based upon historical returns. The building blocks for equity returns include inflation, real return, a term premium, an equity risk premium, capital appreciation, effect of active management, expenses and the effect of rebalancing. The building blocks for fixed maturity returns include inflation, real return, a term premium, credit spread, capital appreciation, effect of active management, expenses and the effect of rebalancing.
The Company applied the same approach to the determination of the expected rate of return on plan assets in 2015. The expected rate of return for 2015 is 6.25% and 7.00% for pension and postretirement, respectively.
The assumptions for foreign pension plans are based on local markets. There are no material foreign postretirement plans.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plan. A one-percentage point increase and decrease in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
		Other Postretirement Benefits
		(in millions)
One percentage point increase
Increase in total service and interest costs		$	8
Increase in postretirement benefit obligation			160
One percentage point decrease
Decrease in total service and interest costs		$	6
Decrease in postretirement benefit obligation			125
Plan Assets
The investment goal of the domestic pension plan assets is to generate an above benchmark return on a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds and other investments. The cash requirements of the pension obligation, which include a traditional formula principally representing payments to annuitants and a cash balance formula that allows lump sum payments and annuity payments, are designed to be met by the bonds and short term investments in the portfolio. The pension plan risk management practices include guidelines for asset concentration, credit rating and liquidity. The pension plan does not invest in leveraged derivatives. Derivatives such as futures contracts are used to reduce transaction costs and change asset concentration, while interest rate swaps and futures are used to adjust duration.
The investment goal of the domestic postretirement plan assets is to generate an above benchmark return on a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other investments, while meeting the cash requirements for the postretirement obligation that includes a medical benefit including prescription drugs, a dental benefit, and a life benefit. The postretirement plan risk management practices include guidelines for asset concentration, credit rating, liquidity, and tax efficiency. The postretirement plan does not invest in leveraged derivatives. Derivatives such as futures contracts are used to reduce transaction costs and change asset concentration, while interest rate swaps and futures are used to adjust duration.
The plan fiduciaries for the Company's pension and postretirement plans have developed guidelines for asset allocations reflecting a percentage of total assets by asset class, which are reviewed on an annual basis. Asset allocation targets as of December 31, 2014 are as follows:
		Pension				Postretirement
		Minimum		Maximum		Minimum		Maximum
Asset Category
U.S. Equities		2%		15%		47%		61%
International Equities		2%		15%		2%		10%
Fixed Maturities		51%		70%		1%		38%
Short-term Investments		0%		14%		0%		44%
Real Estate		2%		15%		0%		0%
Other		0%		15%		0%		0%
To implement the investment strategy, plan assets are invested in funds that primarily invest in securities that correspond to one of the asset categories under the investment guidelines. However, at any point in time, some of the assets in a fund may be of a different nature than the specified asset category.
Assets held with Prudential Insurance are in either pooled separate accounts or single client separate accounts. Pooled separate accounts hold assets for multiple investors. Each investor owns a “unit of account.” Single client separate accounts hold assets for only one investor, the domestic qualified pension plan and each security in the fund is treated as individually owned. Assets held with a bank are either in common/collective trusts or single client trusts. Common or collective trusts hold assets for more than one investor. Each investor owns a “unit of account.” Single client trusts hold assets for only one investor, the domestic qualified pension plan and each security in the fund is treated as individually owned.
There were no investments in Prudential Financial Common Stock as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 for either the pension or postretirement plans.
The authoritative guidance around fair value established a framework for measuring fair value. Fair value is disclosed using a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value, as described in Note 20.
The following describes the valuation methodologies used for pension and postretirement plans assets measured at fair value.
Insurance Company Pooled Separate Accounts, Common or Collective Trusts, and United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds – Insurance company pooled separate accounts are invested via group annuity contracts issued by Prudential Insurance. Assets are represented by a “unit of account.” The redemption value of those units is based on a per unit value whose value is the result of the accumulated values of underlying investments. The underlying investments are valued in accordance with the corresponding valuation method for the investments held.
Equities – See Note 20 for a discussion of the valuation methodologies for equity securities.
U.S. Government Securities (both Federal and State & Other), Non–U.S. Government Securities, and Corporate Debt - See Note 20 for a discussion of the valuation methodologies for fixed maturity securities.
Interest Rate Swaps – See Note 20 for a discussion of the valuation methodologies for derivative instruments.
Guaranteed Investment Contracts - The value is based on contract cash flows and available market rates for similar investments.
Registered Investment Companies (Mutual Funds) - Securities are priced at the net asset value (“NAV”) of shares.
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investment of Securities Lending Collateral - This value is the contractual position relative to the investment of securities lending collateral.
Real Estate - The values are determined through an independent appraisal process. The estimate of fair value is based on three approaches; (1) current cost of reproducing the property less deterioration and functional/economic obsolescence; (2) discounting a series of income streams and reversion at a specific yield or by directly capitalizing a single year income estimate by an appropriate factor; and (3) value indicated by recent sales of comparable properties in the market. Each approach requires the exercise of subjective judgment.
Short-term Investments - Securities are valued initially at cost and thereafter adjusted for amortization of any discount or premium (i.e., amortized cost). Amortized cost approximates fair value.
Partnerships - The value of interests owned in partnerships is based on valuations of the underlying investments that include private placements, structured debt, real estate, equities, fixed maturities, commodities and other investments.
Hedge Funds - The value of interests in hedge funds is based on the underlying investments that include equities, debt and other investments.
Variable Life Insurance Policies – These assets are held in group and individual variable life insurance policies issued by Prudential Insurance. Group policies are invested in Insurance Company Pooled Separate Accounts. Individual policies are invested in Registered Investment Companies (Mutual Funds). The value of interest in these policies is the cash surrender value of the policies based on the underlying investments.
Pension plan asset allocations in accordance with the investment guidelines are as follows:
						As of December 31, 2014
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Pooled separate accounts (1)					$	0		$	881		$	0		$	881
	Common/collective trusts (1)						0			87			0			87
			Subtotal													968
International Equities:
	Pooled separate accounts (2)						0			323			0			323
	Common/collective trusts (3)						0			202			0			202
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (4)						0			45			0			45
			Subtotal													570
Fixed Maturities:
	Pooled separate accounts (5)						0			1,162			35			1,197
	Common/collective trusts (6)						0			490			0			490
	U.S. government securities (federal):
		Mortgage-backed					0			1			0			1
		Other U.S. government securities					0			852			0			852
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			694			0			694
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			16			0			16
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (7)						0			320			0			320
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (8)					0			4,550			14			4,564
		Asset-backed					0			25			0			25
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (9)					0			112			0			112
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $1,536)						0			-1			0			-1
	Guaranteed investment contract						0			28			0			28
	Other (10)						712			4			73			789
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (11)					0			-37			0			-37
			Subtotal													9,050
Short-term Investments:
	Pooled separate accounts						0			39			0			39
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds						0			1			0			1
			Subtotal													40
Real Estate:
	Pooled separate accounts (12)						0			0			465			465
	Partnerships						0			0			336			336
			Subtotal													801
Other:
	Partnerships						0			0			455			455
	Hedge funds						0			0			1,144			1,144
			Subtotal													1,599
				Total		$	712		$	9,794		$	2,522		$	13,028
						As of December 31, 2013
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Pooled separate accounts (1)					$	0		$	1,170		$	0		$	1,170
	Common/collective trusts (1)						0			81			0			81
			Subtotal													1,251
International Equities:
	Pooled separate accounts (2)						0			349			0			349
	Common/collective trusts (3)						0			40			0			40
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (4)						0			50			0			50
			Subtotal													439
Fixed Maturities:
	Pooled separate accounts (5)						0			1,085			32			1,117
	Common/collective trusts (6)						0			506			0			506
	U.S. government securities (federal):
		Mortgage-backed					0			2			0			2
		Other U.S. government securities					0			1,005			0			1,005
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			636			0			636
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			17			0			17
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (7)						0			266			0			266
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (8)					0			3,660			16			3,676
		Asset-backed					0			24			0			24
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (9)					0			137			0			137
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $623)						0			-3			0			-3
	Guaranteed investment contract						0			28			0			28
	Other (10)						717			0			66			783
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (13)					0			-39			0			-39
			Subtotal													8,155
Short-term Investments:
	Pooled separate accounts						0			78			0			78
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds						0			1			0			1
			Subtotal													79
Real Estate:
	Pooled separate accounts (12)						0			0			356			356
	Partnerships						0			0			320			320
			Subtotal													676
Other:
	Partnerships						0			0			374			374
	Hedge funds						0			0			1,095			1,095
			Subtotal													1,469
				Total		$	717		$	9,093		$	2,259		$	12,069
These categories invest in U.S. equity funds whose objective is to track or outperform various indexes.
This category invests in a large cap international equity funds whose objective is to track an index.
This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap, whose objective is to outperform various indexes. For 2014, this category also includes a global equity fund, primarily focused on new market leaders with sustainable competitive advantage.
This category invests in an international equity fund whose objective is to track an index.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated private placement securities.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated public securities whose objective is to outperform an index.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated corporate securities.
This category invests in highly rated corporate securities.
This category invests in highly rated Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
Primarily cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables, and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $717 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $754 million.
This category invests in commercial real estate and real estate securities funds, whose objective is to outperform an index.
The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $701 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $740 million.
Changes in Fair Value of Level 3 Pension Assets
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
								Fixed
					Fixed			Maturities -
					Maturities -			Corporate						Real Estate -
					Pooled			Debt -			Fixed			Pooled
					Separate			Corporate			Maturities -			Separate
					Accounts			Bonds			Other			Accounts
					(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period					$	32		$	16		$	66		$	356
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				3			0			0			49
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0			5
	Purchases, sales and settlements					0			-2			7			55
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	35		$	14		$	73		$	465
								Year Ended December 31, 2014
								Real Estate -			Other -			Other -
								Partnerships			Partnerships			Hedge Fund
								(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period								$	320		$	374		$	1,095
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date							6			53			49
		Relating to assets sold during the period							0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements								10			28			0
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3								0			0			0
Fair Value, end of period								$	336		$	455		$	1,144
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
								Fixed
					Fixed			Maturities -
					Maturities -			Corporate						Real Estate -
					Pooled			Debt -			Fixed			Pooled
					Separate			Corporate			Maturities -			Separate
					Accounts			Bonds			Other			Accounts
					(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period					$	32		$	12		$	58		$	322
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0			46
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements					0			4			8			-12
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	32		$	16		$	66		$	356
								Year Ended December 31, 2013
								Real Estate -			Other -			Other -
								Partnerships			Partnerships			Hedge Fund
								(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period								$	185		$	598		$	707
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date							35			48			106
		Relating to assets sold during the period							0			0			4
	Purchases, sales and settlements								100			7			-1
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3 (1)								0			-279			279
Fair Value, end of period								$	320		$	374		$	1,095
The transfers in and out of Level 3 represent a reclassification of certain fund assets from Partnerships to Hedge Funds.
Postretirement plan asset allocations in accordance with the investment guidelines are as follows
						As of December 31, 2014
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (1)					$	0		$	698		$	0		$	698
	Common trusts (2)						0			155			0			155
	Equities						124			0			0			124
			Subtotal													977
International Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (3)						0			61			0			61
	Common trusts (4)						0			22			0			22
			Subtotal													83
Fixed Maturities:
	Common trusts (5)						0			31			0			31
	U.S. government securities (federal):
			Mortgage-Backed				0			5			0			5
			Other U.S. government securities				0			116			0			116
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			3			0			3
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			7			0			7
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (6)					0			254			1			255
		Asset-Backed					0			76			1			77
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (7)					0			39			0			39
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $1,024)						0			-8			0			-8
	Other (8)						57			0			-5			52
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (9)					0			0			0			0
			Subtotal													577
Short-term Investments:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies						0			0			0			0
	Registered investment companies						80			0			0			80
			Subtotal													80
				Total		$	261		$	1,459		$	-3		$	1,717
						As of December 31, 2013
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (1)					$	0		$	634		$	0		$	634
	Common trusts (2)						0			136			0			136
	Equities						110			0			0			110
			Subtotal													880
International Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (3)						0			64			0			64
	Common trusts (4)						0			23			0			23
			Subtotal													87
Fixed Maturities:
	Common trusts (5)						0			29			0			29
	U.S. government securities (federal):
			Mortgage-Backed				0			7			0			7
			Other U.S. government securities				0			289			0			289
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			3			0			3
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			4			0			4
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (6)					0			235			1			236
		Asset-Backed					0			56			5			61
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (7)					0			35			0			35
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $861)						0			-7			0			-7
	Other (8)						74			0			-6			68
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (10)					0			0			0			0
			Subtotal													725
Short-term Investments:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies						0			0			0			0
	Registered investment companies						53			0			0			53
			Subtotal													53
				Total		$	237		$	1,508		$	0		$	1,745
This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities whose objective is to track an index via pooled separate accounts and registered investment companies.
This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities.
This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap international equities whose objective is to track an index.
This category fund invests in large cap international equity fund whose objective is to outperform an index.
This category invests in U.S. bonds funds.
This category invests in highly rated corporate bonds.
This category invests in highly rated Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
Cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
In 2014 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $10 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $10 million.
In 2013 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $16 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $16 million.
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
					Fixed			Fixed
					Maturities -			Maturities -
					Corporate			Corporate
					Debt -			Debt -			Fixed
					Corporate			Asset			Maturities -
					Bonds			Backed			Other
					(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period					$	1		$	5		$	-6
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements					0			1			1
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3 (1)					0			-5			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	1		$	1		$	-5
-1		The transfers from level 3 to level 2 are due to the availability of external pricing sources.
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
					Fixed			Fixed
					Maturities -			Maturities -
					Corporate			Corporate
					Debt -			Debt -			Fixed
					Corporate			Asset			Maturities -
					Bonds			Backed			Other
					(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period					$	2		$	0		$	-4
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements					-1			5			-2
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	1		$	5		$	-6
A summary of pension and postretirement plan asset allocation as of the year ended December 31, are as follows:
		Pension Percentage of Plan Assets				Postretirement Percentage of Plan Assets
		2014		2013		2014		2013
Asset Category
U.S. Equities		7	%	10	%	57	%	50	%
International Equities		5		4		5		5
Fixed Maturities		69		67		34		39
Short-term Investments		0		1		4		6
Real Estate		6		6		0		0
Other		13		12		0		0
Total		100	%	100	%	100	%	100	%
The expected benefit payments for the Company's pension and postretirement plans, as well as the expected Medicare Part D subsidy receipts related to the Company's postretirement plan, for the years indicated are as follows:
		Pension Benefit Payments			Other Postretirement Benefit Payments			Other Postretirement Benefits - Medicare Part D Subsidy Receipts
		(in millions)
2015		$	652		$	172		$	13
2016			677			174			14
2017			697			176			15
2018			717			177			15
2019			741			177			15
2020-2024			4,045			870			83
Total		$	7,529		$	1,746		$	155
The Company anticipates that it will make cash contributions in 2015 of approximately $125 million to the pension plans and approximately $10 million to the postretirement plans.
Postemployment Benefits
The Company accrues postemployment benefits for income continuance and health and life benefits provided to former or inactive employees who are not retirees. The net accumulated liability for these benefits at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $55 million and $68 million, respectively, and is included in “Other liabilities.”
Other Employee Benefits
The Company sponsors voluntary savings plans for employees (401(k) plans). The plans provide for salary reduction contributions by employees and matching contributions by the Company of up to 4% of annual salary. The matching contributions by the Company included in “General and administrative expenses” were $60 million, $57 million and $54 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	19.    INCOME TAXES
	The components of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Current tax expense (benefit)
		U.S.					$	-80		$	-292		$	674
		State and local						-7			16			27
		Foreign						463			310			387
		Total						376			34			1,088
	Deferred tax expense (benefit)
		U.S.						880			44			-437
		State and local						12			0			-5
		Foreign						-919			-1,136			-433
		Total						-27			-1,092			-875
	Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating
		joint ventures						349			-1,058			213
	Income tax expense on equity in earnings of operating joint ventures							-2			19			19
	Income tax expense on discontinued operations							6			3			8
	Income tax expense (benefit) reported in equity related to:
		Other comprehensive income						4,249			-582			2,667
		Stock-based compensation programs						-29			-32			-56
	Total income taxes						$	4,573		$	-1,650		$	2,851
	In July 2014, the IRS issued guidance relating to the hedging of variable annuity guaranteed minimum benefits (“Hedging IDD”). The Hedging IDD provides an elective safe harbor tax accounting method for certain contracts which permits the current deduction of losses and the deferral of gains for hedging activities that can be applied to open years under IRS examination beginning with the earliest open year. The Company will apply this tax accounting method for hedging gains and losses covered by the Hedging IDD beginning with 2009. As a result of applying such accounting method in 2014 the Company's U.S. current tax benefit includes an additional tax benefit of $475 million and a corresponding reduction of deferred tax assets.
	The Company's actual income tax expense on continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures for the years ended December 31 differs from the expected amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 35% to income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures for the following reasons:
							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Expected federal income tax expense (benefit)						$	616		$	-589		$	248
	Non-taxable investment income							-381			-319			-302
	Foreign taxes at other than U.S. rate							140			-36			-51
	Low income housing and other tax credits							-127			-105			-78
	Reversal of acquisition opening balance sheet deferred tax items							53			55			384
	Repatriation change							32			0			6
	Minority interest							-19			-37			-17
	Medicare Part D							3			-43			-1
	State taxes							-2			10			15
	Other							34			6			9
		Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of
			operating joint ventures				$	349		$	-1,058		$	213
	The dividends received deduction (“DRD”) reduces the amount of dividend income subject to U.S. tax and is the primary component of the non-taxable investment income shown in the table above, and, as such, is a significant component of the difference between the Company's effective tax rate and the federal statutory tax rate of 35%. The DRD for the current period was estimated using information from 2013 and current year results, and was adjusted to take into account the current year's equity market performance. The actual current year DRD can vary from the estimate based on factors such as, but not limited to, changes in the amount of dividends received that are eligible for the DRD, changes in the amount of distributions received from mutual fund investments, changes in the account balances of variable life and annuity contracts, and the Company's taxable income before the DRD.
	In August 2007, the IRS released Revenue Ruling 2007-54, which included, among other items, guidance on the methodology to be followed in calculating the DRD related to variable life insurance and annuity contracts. In September 2007, the IRS released Revenue Ruling 2007-61. Revenue Ruling 2007-61 suspended Revenue Ruling 2007-54 and informed taxpayers that the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS intend to address through new guidance the issues considered in Revenue Ruling 2007-54, including the methodology to be followed in determining the DRD related to variable life insurance and annuity contracts. In May 2010, the IRS issued an Industry Director Directive (“IDD”) confirming that the methodology for calculating the DRD set forth in Revenue Ruling 2007-54 should not be followed. The IDD also confirmed that the IRS guidance issued before Revenue Ruling 2007-54, which guidance the Company relied upon in calculating its DRD, should be used to determine the DRD. In February 2014, the IRS released Revenue Ruling 2014-7, which modified and superseded Revenue Ruling 2007-54, by removing the provisions of Revenue Ruling 2007-54 related to the methodology to be followed in calculating the DRD and obsoleting Revenue Ruling 2007-61. These activities had no impact on the Company's 2012, 2013 or 2014 results. However, there remains the possibility that the IRS and the U.S. Treasury will address, through subsequent guidance, the issues related to the calculation of the DRD. For the last several years, the revenue proposals included in the Obama Administration's budgets included a proposal that would change the method used to determine the amount of the DRD. A change in the DRD, including the possible retroactive or prospective elimination of this deduction through guidance or legislation, could increase actual tax expense and reduce the Company's consolidated net income.
	The Medicare Part D subsidy provided by the government is not subject to tax. However, the amount a company can otherwise deduct for retiree health care expenses must be reduced by the amount of the Medicare Part D subsidy received and not taxed in that year, effectively making the subsidy taxable. During 2013, the Company transferred $340 million of assets within the qualified pension plan under Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code from assets supporting pension benefits to assets supporting retiree medical and life benefits. As a result, the Company reduced the projected amount of retiree health care payments that would not be deductible related to future receipts by the Company of the Medicare Part D subsidy and recognized a $43 million tax benefit in "Income from continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures."
	Total income tax expense includes additional U.S. income tax expense related to the realization of local deferred tax assets recorded in the Statement of Financial Position as of the acquisition date for Prudential Gibraltar Financial Life Insurance Company, Ltd. (“Prudential Gibraltar”) and AIG Star Life Insurance Co., Ltd, AIG Edison Life Insurance Company, AIG Financial Assurance Japan K.K., and AIG Edison Service Co., Ltd. (collectively, the “Star and Edison Businesses”). As of December 31, 2014, additional U.S. GAAP tax expense related to the utilization of opening balance sheet local deferred tax assets has been fully recognized in the Statement of Operations as follows:
						Prudential Gibraltar			Star and Edison Businesses			Total
						(in millions)
	Opening balance sheet deferred tax assets after valuation allowance that will result
		in additional tax expense				$	56		$	678		$	734
	Additional tax expense (benefit) recognized in the Statement of Operations:
		2009					13			0			13
		2010					6			0			6
		2011					-29			252			223
		2012					51			333			384
		2013					15			40			55
		2014					0			53			53
				Subtotal			56			678			734
	Additional tax expense recognized in Other Comprehensive Income						0			0			0
	Unrecognized balance of additional tax expense					$	0		$	0		$	0
	On January 1, 2012, the Star and Edison Businesses merged into Gibraltar Life. The majority of additional U.S. tax expense recognized in 2012 is a result of the merger. During the first quarter of 2013, the Company changed its repatriation assumption for Gibraltar Life and Prudential Gibraltar. As a result, the Company recorded an additional U.S. tax expense of $108 million in the first quarter of 2013. Future losses in pre-tax income of Gibraltar Life may reduce the amount of additional tax expense recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and increase the amount of additional tax expense recognized in Other Comprehensive Income.
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31 resulted from the items listed in the following table:
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Deferred tax assets
		Insurance reserves			$	4,361		$	2,760
		Policyholders' dividends				2,552			1,797
		Net operating and capital loss carryforwards				256			358
	Employee benefits				825			477
	Investments				0			1,510
	Other				285			472
	Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance				8,279			7,374
	Valuation allowance				-277			-235
	Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance				8,002			7,139
Deferred tax liabilities
	Net unrealized investment gains				12,713			7,147
	Deferred policy acquisition costs				4,049			4,208
	Investments				171			0
	Unremitted foreign earnings				512			679
	Value of business acquired				924			1,204
	Deferred tax liabilities				18,369			13,238
Net deferred tax liability				$	-10,367		$	-6,099
The application of U.S. GAAP requires the Company to evaluate the recoverability of deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if necessary to reduce the deferred tax asset to an amount that is more likely than not expected to be realized. Considerable judgment is required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance the Company considers many factors, including: (1) the nature of the deferred tax assets and liabilities; (2) whether they are ordinary or capital; (3) in which tax jurisdictions they were generated and the timing of their reversal; (4) taxable income in prior carryback years as well as projected taxable earnings exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; (5) the length of time that carryovers can be utilized in the various taxing jurisdictions; (6) any unique tax rules that would impact the utilization of the deferred tax assets; and (7) any tax planning strategies that the Company would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances, will be realized.
A valuation allowance has been recorded related to tax benefits associated with state and local and foreign deferred tax assets. Adjustments to the valuation allowance are made to reflect changes in management's assessment of the amount of the deferred tax asset that is realizable and the amount of deferred tax asset actually realized during the year. The valuation allowance includes amounts recorded in connection with deferred tax assets at December 31 as follows:
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Valuation allowance related to state and local deferred tax assets				$	252		$	208
Valuation allowance related to foreign operations deferred tax assets				$	25		$	27
The following table sets forth the federal, state and foreign operating, capital loss and tax credit carryforwards for tax purposes, at December 31:
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Federal net operating and capital loss carryforwards				$	0		$	0
State net operating and capital loss carryforwards(1)				$	5,895		$	3,945
Foreign operating loss carryforwards(2)				$	53		$	505
General business credits(3)				$	136		$	0
Alternative minimum tax credits(4)				$	248		$	226
Expires between 2015 and 2034.
$36 million expires between 2019 and 2023 and $17 million has an unlimited carryforward.
Expires between 2031 and 2034.
Alternative minimum tax credits do not expire.
The Company provides for U.S. income taxes on a portion of its unremitted foreign earnings of its operations in Japan, and the unremitted foreign earnings of certain operations in India, Germany, and Taiwan. In addition, beginning in 2012, the Company provides for U.S. income taxes on a portion of current year foreign earnings for its Korean insurance operations. Unremitted foreign earnings from operations in other foreign jurisdictions are considered to be permanently reinvested. During the first quarter of 2013, we determined that in addition to U.S. GAAP earnings, we would repatriate an additional amount from Gibraltar Life and Prudential Gibraltar, but that such additional amount would not exceed the deferred tax assets recorded in the Statement of Financial Position as of the acquisition date for Prudential Gibraltar and the Star and Edison Businesses. Consequently we recognized an additional U.S. tax expense of $108 million in “Income from continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” during 2013. During the fourth quarter of 2014 we determined that the current year operating earnings and AOCI, except realized and unrealized capital gains/(losses), of our Japanese insurance operations will be treated as permanently reinvested. Consequently, we recognized a U.S. tax expense of $32 million in “Income from continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” during 2014. The Company will no longer provide for U.S. income taxes on the permanently reinvested earnings of our Japanese insurance operations.
The following table sets forth the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries, where the Company assumes permanent reinvestment of such and for which U.S. deferred taxes have not been provided, as of the periods indicated. Determining the tax liability that would arise if these earnings were remitted is not practicable.
						At December 31,
						2014			2013			2012
						(in millions)
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (assuming permanent reinvestment)						$	2,396		$	1,973		$	1,747
The Company's income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures includes income from domestic operations of $3,487 million, $1,274 million and $1,138 million, and income (loss) from foreign operations of $(1,728) million, $(2,958) million and $(430) million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company's liability for income taxes includes the liability for unrecognized tax benefits and interest that relate to tax years still subject to review by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) or other taxing authorities. The completion of review or the expiration of the Federal statute of limitations for a given audit period could result in an adjustment to the liability for income taxes.
The Company's unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
			2014			2013			2012
				(in millions)
Balance at January 1,			$	11		$	19		$	90
Increases in unrecognized tax benefits - prior years				0			0			16
(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits- prior years				0			-7			-4
Increases in unrecognized tax benefits - current year				0			0			0
(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits- current year				0			0			0
Settlements with taxing authorities				-5			-1			-83
Balance at December 31,			$	6		$	11		$	19
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably impact the
	effective rate		$	6		$	11		$	19
The Company does not anticipate any significant changes within the next 12 months to its total unrecognized tax benefits related to tax years for which the statute of limitations has not expired.
The Company classifies all interest and penalties related to tax uncertainties as income tax expense (benefit). The amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements for tax-related interest and penalties for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
						2014			2013			2012
						(in millions)
Interest and penalties recognized in the consolidated statements of operations						$	2		$	1		$	4
									2014			2013
										(in millions)
Interest and penalties recognized in liabilities in the consolidated statements of
	financial position								$	4		$	6
Listed below are the tax years that remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdiction, at December 31, 2014:
Major Tax Jurisdiction			Open Tax Years
United States			2007 - 2014
Japan			Fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 - 2014
Korea			Fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 - 2013 and the period ended December 31, 2014
For tax years 2007 through 2015, the Company is participating in the IRS's Compliance Assurance Program (“CAP”). Under CAP, the IRS assigns an examination team to review completed transactions as they occur in order to reach agreement with the Company on how they should be reported in the relevant tax returns. If disagreements arise, accelerated resolutions programs are available to resolve the disagreements in a timely manner before the tax return is filed.
Certain of the Company's affiliates in Japan file a consolidated tax return, while others file separate tax returns. The Company's affiliates in Japan are subject to audits by the local taxing authority. The general statute of limitations is five years from when the return is filed. During 2013 the Tokyo Regional Taxation Bureau concluded a routine tax audit of the tax returns of the Company's affiliates in Japan for their tax years ended March 31, 2009 to March 31, 2012. These activities had no material impact on the Company's 2012, 2013 or 2014 results.
The Company's affiliates in South Korea file separate tax returns and are subject to audits by the local taxing authority. The general statute of limitations is five years from when the return is filed. During 2014, the Korean National Tax Service concluded a routine tax audit of the tax returns of Prudential of Korea for the tax years ended March 31, 2010 to March 31, 2012. These activities had no material impact on the Company's 2012, 2013 or 2014 results.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	20.    FAIR VALUE OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
	Fair Value Measurement––Fair value represents 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. The authoritative fair value guidance establishes a framework for measuring fair value that includes a hierarchy used to classify the inputs used in measuring fair value. The level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
	Level 1—Fair value is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible to the Company for identical assets or liabilities. The Company's Level 1 assets and liabilities primarily include certain cash equivalents and short term investments, equity securities and derivative contracts that trade on an active exchange market.
	Level 2—Fair value is based on significant inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability through corroboration with observable market data. Level 2 inputs include quoted market prices in active markets for similar assets and liabilities, quoted market prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar assets or liabilities, and other market observable inputs. The Company's Level 2 assets and liabilities include: fixed maturities (corporate public and private bonds, most government securities, certain asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities, etc.), certain equity securities (mutual funds, which do not actively trade and are priced based on a net asset value), certain commercial mortgage loans, short-term investments and certain cash equivalents (primarily commercial paper), and certain over-the-counter derivatives.
	Level 3—Fair value is based on at least one or more significant unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The assets and liabilities in this category may require significant judgment or estimation in determining the fair value. The Company's Level 3 assets and liabilities primarily include: certain private fixed maturities and equity securities, certain manually priced public equity securities and fixed maturities, certain highly structured over-the-counter derivative contracts, certain commercial mortgage loans, certain consolidated real estate funds for which the Company is the general partner, and embedded derivatives resulting from certain products with guaranteed benefits.
	Assets and Liabilities by Hierarchy Level - The tables below present the balances of assets and liabilities reported at fair value on a recurring basis, as of the dates indicated.
					As of December 31, 2014
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Netting (1)			Total
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies			$	0		$	20,123		$	0		$			$	20,123
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			6,525			6						6,531
	Foreign government bonds					0			80,939			2						80,941
	Corporate securities					0			159,073			1,303						160,376
	Asset-backed securities					0			7,126			4,059						11,185
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			13,834			43						13,877
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			5,804			253						6,057
		Subtotal				0			293,424			5,666						299,090
	Trading account assets:(2)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies				0			399			0						399
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			199			0						199
	Foreign government bonds					0			696			21						717
	Corporate securities					0			20,146			124						20,270
	Asset-backed securities					0			850			393						1,243
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			2,556			5						2,561
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			1,767			7						1,774
	Equity securities					1,396			232			663						2,291
	All other(3)					194			13,803			7			-12,321			1,683
		Subtotal				1,590			40,648			1,220			-12,321			31,137
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					6,688			2,898			275						9,861
	Commercial mortgage and other loans					0			380			0						380
	Other long-term investments					12			224			1,547			-11			1,772
	Short-term investments					5,263			2,472			0						7,735
	Cash equivalents					2,657			9,188			0						11,845
	Other assets					4			109			2						115
		Subtotal excluding separate account assets				16,214			349,343			8,710			-12,332			361,935
	Separate account assets(4)					48,063			223,710			24,662						296,435
		Total assets			$	64,277		$	573,053		$	33,372		$	-12,332		$	658,370
	Future policy benefits(5)				$	0		$	0		$	8,182		$			$	8,182
	Other liabilities					1			6,883			5			-6,661			228
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			0			6,033						6,033
		Total liabilities			$	1		$	6,883		$	14,220		$	-6,661		$	14,443
					As of December 31, 2013(6)
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Netting(1)			Total
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies			$	0		$	15,400		$	0		$			$	15,400
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			3,735			0						3,735
	Foreign government bonds					0			82,787			1						82,788
	Corporate securities					0			152,449			1,329						153,778
	Asset-backed securities					0			7,146			3,112						10,258
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			13,708			165						13,873
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			6,696			338						7,034
		Subtotal				0			281,921			4,945						286,866
	Trading account assets:(2)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies				0			266			0						266
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			190			0						190
	Foreign government bonds					0			643			0						643
	Corporate securities					0			16,865			115						16,980
	Asset-backed securities					0			876			395						1,271
Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			2,466			1						2,467
Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			1,828			9						1,837
Equity securities					1,309			225			842						2,376
All other(3)					591			7,899			6			-7,246			1,250
	Subtotal				1,900			31,258			1,368			-7,246			27,280
Equity securities, available-for-sale					6,938			2,668			304						9,910
Commercial mortgage and other loans					0			158			0						158
Other long-term investments					19			109			1,396			5			1,529
Short-term investments					6,139			1,046			0						7,185
Cash equivalents					2,461			4,521			0						6,982
Other assets					3			209			4						216
	Subtotal excluding separate account assets				17,460			321,890			8,017			-7,241			340,126
Separate account assets(4)					49,182			213,275			22,603						285,060
	Total assets			$	66,642		$	535,165		$	30,620		$	-7,241		$	625,186
Future policy benefits(5)				$	0		$	0		$	441		$			$	441
Other liabilities					1			9,458			5			-7,257			2,207
Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			0			3,254						3,254
	Total liabilities			$	1		$	9,458		$	3,700		$	-7,257		$	5,902
“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral of $5,671 million and ($16) million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty, subject to master netting arrangements.
Includes “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” and “Other trading account assets”.
Level 1 represents cash equivalents and short term investments. All other amounts primarily represent derivative assets.
Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account assets classified as Level 3 consist primarily of real estate and real estate investment funds. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position.
Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
The methods and assumptions the Company uses to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below.
Fixed Maturity Securities—The fair values of the Company's public fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices obtained from independent pricing services. Prices for each security are generally sourced from multiple pricing vendors, and a vendor hierarchy is maintained by asset type based on historical pricing experience and vendor expertise. The Company ultimately uses the price from the pricing service highest in the vendor hierarchy based on the respective asset type. The pricing hierarchy is updated for new financial products and recent pricing experience with various vendors. Consistent with the fair value hierarchy described above, securities with validated quotes from pricing services are generally reflected within Level 2, as they are primarily based on observable pricing for similar assets and/or other market observable inputs. Typical inputs used by these pricing services include but are not limited to, reported trades, benchmark yields, issuer spreads, bids, offers, and/or estimated cash flow, prepayment speeds, and default rates. If the pricing information received from third party pricing services is deemed not reflective of market activity or other inputs observable in the market, the Company may challenge the price through a formal process with the pricing service or classify the securities as Level 3. If the pricing service updates the price to be more consistent with the presented market observations, the security remains within Level 2.
Internally-developed valuations or indicative broker quotes are also used to determine fair value in circumstances where vendor pricing is not available, or where the Company ultimately concludes that pricing information received from independent pricing services is not reflective of market activity. If the Company concludes the values from both pricing services and brokers are not reflective of market activity, it may override the information with an internally-developed valuation. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, overrides on a net basis were not material. Pricing service overrides, internally-developed valuations and indicative broker quotes are generally included in Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
The Company conducts several specific price monitoring activities. Daily analyses identify price changes over pre-determined thresholds defined at the financial instrument level. Various pricing integrity reports are reviewed on a daily and monthly basis to determine if pricing is reflective of market activity or if it would warrant any adjustments. Other procedures performed include, but are not limited to, reviews of third-party pricing services methodologies, reviews of pricing trends, and back testing.
The fair value of private fixed maturities, which are comprised of investments in private placement securities, originated by internal private asset managers, are primarily determined using discounted cash flow models. These models primarily use observable inputs that include Treasury or similar base rates plus estimated credit spreads to value each security. The credit spreads are obtained through a survey of private market intermediaries who are active in both primary and secondary transactions, and consider, among other factors, the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer and the reduced liquidity associated with private placements. Since most private placements are valued using standard market observable inputs and inputs derived from, or corroborated by, market observable data including observed prices and spreads for similar publicly traded or privately traded issues, they have been reflected within Level 2. For certain private fixed maturities, the discounted cash flow model may incorporate significant unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company's own assumptions about the inputs that market participants would use in pricing the asset. To the extent management determines that such unobservable inputs are significant to the price of a security, a Level 3 classification is made.
Trading Account Assets—Trading account assets consist primarily of fixed maturity securities, equity securities and derivatives whose fair values are determined consistent with similar instruments described above under “Fixed Maturity Securities” and below under “Equity Securities” and “Derivative Instruments.”
Equity Securities—Equity securities consist principally of investments in common and preferred stock of publicly traded companies, perpetual preferred stock, privately traded securities, as well as mutual fund shares. The fair values of most publicly traded equity securities are based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets and are classified within Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. Estimated fair values for most privately traded equity securities are determined using discounted cash flow, earnings multiple and other valuation models that require a substantial level of judgment around inputs and therefore are classified within Level 3. The fair values of mutual fund shares that transact regularly (but do not trade in active markets because they are not publicly available) are based on transaction prices of identical fund shares and are classified within Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of perpetual preferred stock are based on inputs obtained from independent pricing services that are primarily based on indicative broker quotes. As a result, the fair values of perpetual preferred stock are classified as Level 3.
Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans—The fair value of commercial mortgage loans held for investment and accounted for using the fair value option are determined based on the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the appropriate U.S. Treasury rate, adjusted for the current market spread for similar quality loans. The quality ratings for these loans, a primary determinant of the appropriate credit spread and a significant component of the pricing input, are based on internally-developed estimates. As a result, these loans are included in Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value of other loans held and accounted for using the fair value option is determined utilizing pricing indicators from the whole loan market, where investors are committed to purchase these loans at a pre-determined price, which is considered the principal exit market for these loans. The Company has evaluated the valuation inputs used for these assets, including the existence of pre-determined exit prices, the terms of the loans, prevailing interest rates and credit risk, and deemed that the primary pricing inputs are Level 2 inputs in the fair value hierarchy.
Other Long-Term Investments—Other long-term investments include limited partnerships which are consolidated because the Company is either deemed to exercise control or considered the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. These entities are considered investment companies and follow specialized industry accounting whereby their assets are carried at fair value. The investments held by these entities include various feeder fund investments in underlying master funds (whose underlying holdings generally include public fixed maturities, equity securities and mutual funds), as well as wholly-owned real estate held within other investment funds. The fair value is determined by reference to the underlying direct investments, with publicly traded equity securities based on quoted prices in active markets reflected in Level 1, and public fixed maturities and mutual funds priced via quotes from pricing services or observable data reflected in Level 2. The fair value of investments in funds that are subject to significant liquidity restrictions are reflected in Level 3.
The fair value of real estate held in consolidated investment funds is determined through an independent appraisal process. The appraisals generally utilize a discounted cash flow model, supplemented with replacement cost estimates and comparable recent sales data when available. These appraisals and the related assumptions are updated at least annually. Since many of the assumptions utilized are unobservable and are considered to be significant inputs to the valuation, the real estate investments within other long-term investments have been reflected within Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value of fund investments, where the fair value option has been elected, is primarily determined by the fund managers and is measured at fair value using net asset value (“NAV”) as a practical expedient. Since the valuations may be based on unobservable market inputs and cannot be validated by the Company, these investments have been included within Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
Derivative Instruments—Derivatives are recorded at fair value either as assets, within “Other trading account assets,” or “Other long-term investments,” or as liabilities, within “Other liabilities,” except for embedded derivatives which are recorded with the associated host contract. The fair values of derivative contracts can be affected by changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, commodity prices, credit spreads, market volatility, expected returns, non-performance risk (“NPR”), liquidity and other factors. For derivative positions included within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, liquidity valuation adjustments are made to reflect the cost of exiting significant risk positions, and consider the bid-ask spread, maturity, complexity, and other specific attributes of the underlying derivative position.
The Company's exchange-traded futures and options include Treasury futures, Eurodollar futures, commodity futures, Eurodollar options and commodity options. Exchange-traded futures and options are valued using quoted prices in active markets and are classified within Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.
The majority of the Company's derivative positions are traded in the OTC derivative market and are classified within Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives classified within Level 2 are valued using models that utilize actively quoted or observable market input values from external market data providers, third-party pricing vendors and/or recent trading activity. The Company's policy is to use mid-market pricing in determining its best estimate of fair value. The fair values of most OTC derivatives, including interest rate and cross currency swaps, currency forward contracts, commodity swaps, commodity forward contracts, single name credit default swaps, loan commitments held for sale and “to be announced” (“TBA”) forward contracts on highly rated mortgage-backed securities issued by U.S. government sponsored entities are determined using discounted cash flow models. The fair values of European style option contracts are determined using Black-Scholes option pricing models. These models' key inputs include the contractual terms of the respective contract, along with significant observable inputs, including interest rates, currency rates, credit spreads, equity prices, index dividend yields, NPR, volatility and other factors.
The Company's cleared interest rate swaps and credit derivatives linked to an index are valued using models that utilize actively quoted or observable market inputs, including Overnight Indexed Swap discount rates, obtained from external market data providers, third-party pricing vendors and/or recent trading activity. These derivatives are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
The vast majority of the Company's derivative agreements are with highly rated major international financial institutions. To reflect the market's perception of its own and the counterparty's NPR, the Company incorporates additional spreads over LIBOR into the discount rate used in determining the fair value of OTC derivative assets and liabilities that are not otherwise collateralized.
Derivatives classified as Level 3 include look-back equity options and other structured products. These derivatives are valued based upon models, such as Monte Carlo simulation models and other techniques that utilize significant unobservable inputs. Level 3 methodologies are validated through periodic comparison of the Company's fair values to external broker-dealer values.
Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments—Cash equivalents and short-term investments include money market instruments, commercial paper and other highly liquid debt instruments. Certain money market instruments are valued using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible for identical assets and are primarily classified as Level 1. The remaining instruments in this category are generally fair valued based on market observable inputs and these investments have primarily been classified within Level 2.
Separate Account Assets—Separate account assets include fixed maturity securities, treasuries, equity securities, mutual funds, and real estate investments for which values are determined consistent with similar instruments described above under “Fixed Maturity Securities,” “Equity Securities” and “Other Long-Term Investments.”
Notes issued by Consolidated VIEs—The fair values of these notes are based on indicative broker quotes and classified within Level 3. See Note 5 and the Fair Value Option section below for additional information.
Other Liabilities—Other liabilities include certain derivative instruments, the fair values of which are determined consistent with similar derivative instruments described above under “Derivative Instruments.”
Future Policy Benefits—The liability for future policy benefits is related to guarantees primarily associated with the optional living benefit features of certain variable annuity contracts offered by the Company's Individual Annuities segment, including GMAB, GMWB and GMIWB, accounted for as embedded derivatives. The fair values of the GMAB, GMWB and GMIWB liabilities are calculated as the present value of future expected benefit payments to customers less the present value of assessed rider fees attributable to the embedded derivative feature. This methodology could result in either a liability or contra-liability balance, given changing capital market conditions and various actuarial assumptions. Since there is no observable active market for the transfer of these obligations, the valuations are calculated using internally-developed models with option pricing techniques. The models are based on a risk neutral valuation framework and incorporate premiums for risks inherent in valuation techniques, inputs, and the general uncertainty around the timing and amount of future cash flows. The determination of these risk premiums requires the use of management judgment.
The significant inputs to the valuation models for these embedded derivatives include capital market assumptions, such as interest rate levels and volatility assumptions, the Company's market-perceived NPR, as well as actuarially determined assumptions, including contractholder behavior, such as lapse rates, benefit utilization rates, withdrawal rates, and mortality rates. Since many of these assumptions are unobservable and are considered to be significant inputs to the liability valuation, the liability included in future policy benefits has been reflected within Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
Capital market inputs and actual policyholders' account values are updated each quarter based on capital market conditions as of the end of the quarter, including interest rates, equity markets and volatility. In the risk neutral valuation, the initial swap curve drives the total return used to grow the policyholders' account values. The Company's discount rate assumption is based on the LIBOR swap curve adjusted for an additional spread relative to LIBOR to reflect NPR.
Actuarial assumptions, including contractholder behavior and mortality, are reviewed at least annually, and updated based upon emerging experience, future expectations and other data, including any observable market data. These assumptions are generally updated annually unless a material change that the Company feels is indicative of a long term trend is observed in an interim period.
Transfers between Levels 1 and 2—Overall, transfers between levels are made to reflect changes in observability of inputs and market activity. Transfers into or out of any level are assumed to occur at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfers occur. Periodically there are transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for assets held in the Company's Separate Account. The fair value of foreign common stock held in the Company's Separate Account may reflect differences in market levels between the close of foreign trading markets and the close of U.S. trading markets for the respective day. Dependent on the existence of such a timing difference, the assets may move between Level 1 and Level 2. During the year ended December 31, 2014, $2.1 billion were transferred from Level 1 to Level 2 and $0.1 billion were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1. During the year ended December 31, 2013, $4.0 billion were transferred from Level 1 to Level 2 and $5.0 billion were transferred from Level 2 to Level 1.
Level 3 Assets and Liabilities by Price Source—The table below presents the balances of Level 3 assets and liabilities measured at fair value with their corresponding pricing sources.
				As of December 31, 2014
				Internal(1)			External(2)			Total
				(in millions)
Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions				$	6		$	0		$	6
Foreign government bonds					0			23			23
Corporate securities					752			675			1,427
Asset-backed securities					150			4,302			4,452
Commercial mortgage-backed securities					10			38			48
Residential mortgage-backed securities					57			203			260
Equity securities					140			798			938
Other long-term investments					1			1,546			1,547
Other assets					9			0			9
	Subtotal excluding separate account assets(3)				1,125			7,585			8,710
Separate account assets					23,632			1,030			24,662
	Total assets			$	24,757		$	8,615		$	33,372
Future policy benefits				$	8,182		$	0		$	8,182
Other liabilities					2			3			5
Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			6,033			6,033
	Total liabilities			$	8,184		$	6,036		$	14,220
				As of December 31, 2013
				Internal(1)			External(2)			Total
				(in millions)
Foreign government bonds				$	0		$	1		$	1
Corporate securities					660			784			1,444
Asset-backed securities					209			3,298			3,507
Commercial mortgage-backed securities					14			152			166
Residential mortgage-backed securities					77			270			347
Equity securities					141			1,005			1,146
Other long-term investments					9			1,387			1,396
Other assets					10			0			10
	Subtotal excluding separate account assets(3)				1,120			6,897			8,017
Separate account assets					21,665			938			22,603
	Total assets			$	22,785		$	7,835		$	30,620
Future policy benefits				$	441		$	0		$	441
Other liabilities					5			0			5
Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			3,254			3,254
	Total liabilities			$	446		$	3,254		$	3,700
Represents valuations reflecting both internally-derived and market inputs, as well as third party pricing information or quotes. See below for additional information related to internally-developed valuation for significant items in the above table.
Represents unadjusted prices from independent pricing services and independent indicative broker quotes where pricing inputs are not readily available.
Includes assets classified as fixed maturities available-for-sale, trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets.
Quantitative Information Regarding Internally-Priced Level 3 Assets and Liabilities––The tables below present quantitative information on significant internally-priced Level 3 assets and liabilities (see narrative below for quantitative information for separate account assets.
				As of December 31, 2014
				Fair Value			Valuation Techniques		Unobservable Inputs		Minimum		Maximum		Weighted Average	Impact of Increase in Input on Fair Value (1)
				(in millions)
Assets:
Corporate securities				$	752		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		0.84%	-	15%		7.73%	Decrease
							Market comparables		EBITDA multiples(2)		6.1X	-	7.0X		6.1X	Increase
							Liquidation		Liquidation value		22.12%	-	100.00%		82.92%	Increase
Liabilities:
Future policy
benefits(4)				$	8,182		Discounted cash flow		Lapse rate(5)		0%	-	14%			Decrease
									NPR spread(6)		0%	-	1.30%			Decrease
									Utilization rate(7)		63%	-	96%			Increase
									Withdrawal rate(8)		74%	-	100%			Increase
									Mortality rate(9)		0%	-	14%			Decrease
									Equity volatility curve		17%	-	28%			Increase
				As of December 31, 2013
					Fair Value		Valuation Techniques		Unobservable Inputs		Minimum		Maximum		Weighted Average	Impact of Increase in Input on Fair Value (1)
				(in millions)
Assets:
Corporate securities				$	660		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		1.25%	-	15%		8.52%	Decrease
							Market comparables		EBITDA multiples(2)		5.0X	-	8.0X		6.0X	Increase
							Liquidation		Liquidation value		11.61%	-	100.00%		59.17%	Increase
Asset-backed securities				$	209		Discounted cash flow		Prepayment rate(3)		11.11%	-	27.41%		19.91%	Increase
									Default rate(3)		2.00%	-	31.85%		8.63%	Decrease
									Loss severity(3)		15.06%	-	45.00%		33.00%	Decrease
									Liquidity premium		1.00%	-	2.00%		1.90%	Decrease
									Average life (years)		0.47	-	14.76		5.53	Increase
									Comparable spreads		0.19%	-	45.19%		6.76%	Decrease
									Comparable security yields		0.61%	-	10.00%		6.52%	Decrease
Liabilities:
Future policy
benefits(4)				$	441		Discounted cash flow		Lapse rate(5)		0%	-	11%			Decrease
									NPR spread(6)		0.08%	-	1.09%			Decrease
									Utilization rate(7)		70%	-	94%			Increase
									Withdrawal rate(8)		86%	-	100%			Increase
									Mortality rate(9)		0%	-	13%			Decrease
									Equity volatility curve		15%	-	28%			Increase
Conversely, the impact of a decrease in input would have the opposite impact for the fair value as that presented in the table.
EBITDA multiples represent multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and are amounts used when the reporting entity has determined that market participants would use such multiples when pricing the investments.
In isolation, an increase in prepayment rate or a decrease in default rate or loss severity would generally result in an increase in fair value, although the interrelationships between these inputs depend on specific market conditions.
Future policy benefits primarily represent general account liabilities for the optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity contracts which are accounted for as embedded derivatives. Since the valuation methodology for these liabilities uses a range of inputs that vary at the contract level over the cash flow projection period, presenting a range, rather than weighted average, is a more meaningful representation of the unobservable inputs used in the valuation.
Lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on the in-the-moneyness of the living benefit and reflect other factors, such as the applicability of any surrender charges. Lapse rates are reduced when contracts are more in-the-money. Lapse rates are also generally assumed to be lower for the period where surrender charges apply.
To reflect NPR, the Company incorporates an additional spread over LIBOR into the discount rate used in the valuation of individual living benefit contracts in a liability position and generally not to those in a contra-liability position. The NPR spread reflects the financial strength ratings of the Company, as these are insurance liabilities and senior to debt. The additional spread over LIBOR is determined by utilizing the credit spreads associated with issuing funding agreements, adjusted for any illiquidity risk premium.
The utilization rate assumption estimates the percentage of contracts that will utilize the benefit during the contract duration, and begin lifetime withdrawals at various time intervals from contract inception. The remaining contractholders are assumed to either begin lifetime withdrawals immediately or never utilize the benefit. Utilization assumptions may vary by product type, tax status, and age. The impact of changes in these assumptions is highly dependent on the product type, the age of the contractholder at the time of the sale, and the timing of the first lifetime income withdrawal.
The withdrawal rate assumption estimates the magnitude of annual contractholder withdrawals relative to the maximum allowable amount under the contract. These assumptions may vary based on the product type, contractholder age, tax status, and withdrawal timing. The fair value of the liability will generally increase the closer the withdrawal rate is to 100%.
Range reflects the mortality rate for the vast majority of business with living benefits, with policyholders ranging from 35 to 90 years old. While the majority of living benefits have a minimum age requirement, certain benefits do not have an age restriction. This results in contractholders for certain benefits with mortality rates approaching 0%. Based on historical experience, the Company applies a set of age and duration specific mortality rate adjustments compared to standard industry tables. A mortality improvement assumption is also incorporated into the overall mortality table.
Interrelationships Between Unobservable Inputs—In addition to the sensitivities of fair value measurements to changes in each unobservable input in isolation, as reflected in the table above, interrelationships between these inputs may also exist, such that a change in one unobservable input may give rise to a change in another or multiple inputs. Examples of such interrelationships for significant internally-priced Level 3 assets and liabilities are as follows:
Corporate Securities—The rate used to discount future cash flows reflects current risk-free rates plus credit and liquidity spread requirements that market participants would use to value an asset. The discount rate may be influenced by many factors, including market cycles, expectations of default, collateral, term, and asset complexity. Each of these factors can influence discount rates, either in isolation, or in response to other factors.
Asset-Backed Securities—Interrelationships may exist between the prepayment rate, the default rate and/or loss severity, depending on specific market conditions. In stronger business cycles, prepayment rates are generally driven by overall market interest rates, and accompanied by lower default rates and loss severity. During weaker cycles, prepayments may decline, as default rates and loss severity increase. Additionally, the impact of these factors on average life varies with the structure and subordination.
Future Policy Benefits—The Company expects efficient benefit utilization and withdrawal rates to generally be correlated with lapse rates. However, behavior is generally highly dependent on the facts and circumstances surrounding the individual contractholder, such as their liquidity needs or tax situation, which could drive lapse behavior independent of other contractholder behavior assumptions. To the extent more efficient contractholder behavior results in greater in-the-moneyness at the contract level, lapse rates may decline for those contracts. Similarly, to the extent that increases in equity volatility are correlated with overall declines in the capital markets, lapse rates may decline as contracts become more in-the-money.
Separate Account Assets—In addition to the significant internally-priced Level 3 assets and liabilities presented and described above, the Company also has internally-priced separate account assets reported within Level 3. Changes in the fair value of separate account assets are borne by customers and thus are offset by changes in separate account liabilities on the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. As a result, changes in value associated with these investments do not impact the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations. In addition, fees earned by the Company related to the management of most separate account assets classified as Level 3 do not change due to changes in the fair value of these investments. Quantitative information about significant internally-priced Level 3 separate account assets is as follows:
Real Estate and Other Invested Assets—Separate account assets include $22,641 million and $20,806 million of investments in real estate as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, that are classified as Level 3 and reported at fair value. In general, these fair value estimates are based on property appraisal reports prepared by independent real estate appraisers. Key inputs and assumptions to the appraisal process include rental income and expense amounts, related growth rates, discount rates and capitalization rates. In cases where real estate investments are made through indirect investments, fair value is generally determined by the Company's equity in net assets of the entities. The debt associated with real estate, other invested assets and the Company's equity position in entities are externally valued. Because of the subjective nature of inputs and the judgment involved in the appraisal process, real estate investments and their corresponding debt are typically included in the Level 3 classification. Key unobservable inputs to real estate valuation include capitalization rates, which ranged from 4.50% to 9.75% (6.05% weighted average) as of December 31, 2014, and 4.15% to11.00% (6.35% weighted average) as of December 31, 2013, and discount rates, which ranged from 6.00% to 15.00% (7.36% weighted average) as of December 31, 2014, and 6.00% to 15.00% (7.71% weighted average) as of December 31, 2013. Key unobservable inputs to real estate debt valuation include yield to maturity, which ranged from 0.77% to 6.76% (4.02% weighted average) as of December 31, 2014, and 1.13% to 6.85% (4.17% weighted average) as of December 31, 2013, and market spread over base rate, which ranged from 1.50% to 4.76% (2.67% weighted average) as of December 31, 2014, and 1.60% to 4.75% (2.87% weighted average) as of December 31, 2013.
Commercial Mortgage Loans—Separate account assets include $943 million and $793 million of commercial mortgage loans as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, that are classified as Level 3 and reported at fair value. Commercial mortgage loans are primarily valued internally using discounted cash flow techniques, as described further under “Fair Value of Financial Instruments.” The primary unobservable input used is the spread to discount cash flows, which ranged from 1.17% to 8.39% (1.44% weighted average) as of December 31, 2014, and 1.25% to 1.98% (1.47% weighted average) as of December 31, 2013. In isolation, an increase (decrease) in the value of this input would result in a lower (higher) fair value measurement.
Valuation Process for Fair Value Measurements Categorized within Level 3---The Company has established an internal control infrastructure over the valuation of financial instruments that requires ongoing oversight by its various Business Groups. These management control functions are segregated from the trading and investing functions. For invested assets, the Company has established oversight teams, often in the form of Pricing Committees within each asset management group. The teams, which typically include representation from investment, accounting, operations, legal and other disciplines are responsible for overseeing and monitoring the pricing of the Company's investments and performing periodic due diligence reviews of independent pricing services. An actuarial valuation team oversees the valuation of optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity contracts.
The Company has also established policies and guidelines that require the establishment of valuation methodologies and consistent application of such methodologies. These policies and guidelines govern the use of inputs and price source hierarchies and provide controls around the valuation processes. These controls include appropriate review and analysis of investment prices against market activity or indicators of reasonableness, analysis of portfolio returns to corresponding benchmark returns, back-testing, review of bid/ask spreads to assess activity, approval of price source changes, price overrides, methodology changes and classification of fair value hierarchy levels. For optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity products, the actuarial valuation unit periodically performs baseline testing of contract input data and actuarial assumptions are reviewed at least annually, and updated based upon emerging experience, future expectations and other data, including any observable market data. The valuation policies and guidelines are reviewed and updated as appropriate.
Within the trading and investing functions, the Company has established policies and procedures that relate to the approval of all new transaction types, transaction pricing sources and fair value hierarchy coding within the financial reporting system. For variable annuity product changes or new launches of optional living benefit features, the actuarial valuation unit validates input logic and new product features and agrees new input data directly to source documents.
Changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities––The following tables provide summaries of the changes in fair values of Level 3 assets and liabilities as of the dates indicated, as well as the portion of gains or losses included in income attributable to unrealized gains or losses related to those assets and liabilities still held at the end of their respective periods.
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
						Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
						U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	0		$	1		$	1,329		$	3,112	$	165	$	338
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			20			17		4		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			0			45			24		-1		0
	Net investment income						0			0			0			-10			17		0		0
	Purchases						0			2			2			825			2,743		869		0
	Sales						0			-1			0			-636			-346		-11		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			0			0			-413			-1,046		-5		-12
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-66			-60		-1		-18
	Other(1)						0			0			0			4			53		0		-55
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			5			0			319			1,164		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			0			-1			-114			-1,619		-977		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	6		$	2		$	1,303		$	4,059	$	43	$	253
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held (3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-20		$	2	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
						Trading Account Assets
						Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
									(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	115		$	395		$	1		$	9	$	842	$	6
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		1		0
			Other income				0			-7			0			0			0		13		1
	Net investment income						0			0			1			0			0		0		0
	Purchases						21			181			119			87			0		29		0
	Sales						0			-160			-21			0			0		-64		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			-10			-29			0			-1		-84		0
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			-2			0			0		-74		0
	Other(1)						0			0			2			-1			-1		0		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			9			47			5			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-4			-119			-87			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	21		$	124		$	393		$	5		$	7	$	663	$	7
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held (3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	1	$	0
			Other income			$	0		$	6		$	0		$	0		$	1	$	16	$	1
														Year Ended December 31, 2014
																Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Other Assets
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	304		$	0	$	1,396	$	4
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													8			0		-8		0
			Other income													0			0		94		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														9			0		0		0
	Net investment income															0			0		-1		0
	Purchases															24			0		240		0
	Sales															-41			0		-2		0
	Issuances															0			0		0		0
	Settlements															0			0		-89		-2
	Foreign currency translation															-29			0		-9		0
	Other(1)															1			0		-79		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															7			0		5		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-8			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	275		$	0	$	1,547	$	2
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													-2		$	0	$	-8	$	0
			Other income													0		$	0	$	94	$	0
															Year Ended December 31, 2014
															Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	22,603		$	-441	$	-5	$	-3,254
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													10			-6,831		2		201
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances													2,738			0		0		0
	Net investment income															24			0		0		0
	Purchases															1,801			0		0		0
	Sales															-710			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			-910		0		-2,980
	Settlements															-1,783			0		0		0
	Foreign currency translation															-1			0		0		0
	Other(1)															0			0		-2		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															100			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-120			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	24,662		$	-8,182	$	-5	$	-6,033
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	0		$	-6,853	$	2	$	201
			Interest credited to policyholders' account												$	1,760		$	0	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2013(5)
						Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
						U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	0		$	0		$	1,630		$	3,230	$	124	$	484
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			-30			29		37		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			-1			-18			-6		-19		-2
	Net investment income						0			0			0			-4			37		0		-2
	Purchases						0			0			4			477			2,412		438		0
	Sales						0			0			-1			-126			-320		-51		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			0			-2			-579			-1,175		-41		-55
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-127			-22		-9		-88
	Other(1)						0			0			0			0			-171		0		1
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			0			13			573			10		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			0			-12			-467			-912		-314		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	0		$	1		$	1,329		$	3,112	$	165	$	338
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-53		$	13	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2013(5)
						Trading Account Assets
						U.S. Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	134		$	419		$	10		$	12	$	1,098	$	25
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		0		-16
			Other income				0			-8			7			0			1		63		2
	Net investment income						0			0			5			1			0		0		0
	Purchases						0			23			319			74			0		17		0
	Sales						0			-13			-2			-1			0		-140		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			-49			-228			-2			-3		-43		-5
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			-6			-1			-2		-153		0
	Other(1)						0			0			-76			0			0		0		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			52			2			0			2		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-24			-45			-80			-1		0		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	115		$	395		$	1		$	9	$	842	$	6
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	0	$	-16
			Other income			$	0		$	-7		$	7		$	0		$	0	$	50	$	2
															Year Ended December 31, 2013
															Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Other Assets
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	330		$	48	$	1,053	$	8
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													13			5		0		-4
			Other income													0			0		160		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														58			0		0		0
	Purchases															37			0		439		0
	Sales															-65			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			0		0		0
	Settlements															-3			-53		-134		0
	Foreign currency translation															-53			0		-13		0
	Other(1)															-18			0		-109		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															6			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-1			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	304		$	0	$	1,396	$	4
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	-5		$	0	$	-2	$	-3
			Other income												$	0		$	0	$	155	$	0
															Year Ended December 31, 2013
															Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	21,132		$	-3,348	$	0	$	-1,406
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													2			3,741		-3		17
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances													2,649			0		0		0
	Net investment income															20			0		0		0
	Purchases															1,653			0		0		0
	Sales															-832			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			-836		0		-1,834
	Settlements															-2,120			0		0		-31
	Foreign currency translation															0			2		0		0
	Other(1)															140			0		-2		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															89			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-130			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	22,603		$	-441	$	-5	$	-3,254
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	0		$	3,647	$	-3	$	17
			Interest credited to policyholders' account												$	1,652		$	0	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2012(5)
						Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
						U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	66		$	0		$	25		$	1,450		$	1,984	$	145	$	560
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			-35			21		25		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			0			195			94		11		8
	Net investment income						0			0			0			8			32		-1		-1
	Purchases						0			10			0			375			2,602		44		38
	Sales						0			0			0			-165			-426		-28		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						-2			0			0			-325			-590		-14		-89
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-38			-9		-5		-32
	Other(1)						-64			0			-8			71			0		0		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			0			8			306			60		37		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-10			-25			-212			-538		-90		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	0		$	0		$	1,630		$	3,230	$	124	$	484
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-1		$	9	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2012(5)
						Trading Account Assets
						U.S. Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	9		$	148		$	403		$	35		$	17	$	1,296	$	93
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		0		-73
			Other income				0			-7			16			2			2		88		2
	Net investment income						0			0			6			1			0		0		0
	Purchases						0			22			182			16			2		21		0
	Sales						0			-12			-12			-5			-3		-170		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						-2			-25			-110			-2			-4		-89		6
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			-3			-1			-1		-70		0
	Other(1)						-7			7			-1			0			-1		3		-3
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			5			4			82			0		20		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-4			-66			-118			0		-1		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	134		$	419		$	10		$	12	$	1,098	$	25
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	-1	$	-73
			Other income			$	0		$	-10		$	14		$	2		$	0	$	78	$	2
															Year Ended December 31, 2012
															Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Short-term Investments
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	360		$	86	$	1,110	$	0
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													-1			2		1		-9
			Other income													0			0		126		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														29			0		0		0
	Net investment income															0			0		6		0
	Purchases															69			0		186		9
	Sales															-22			0		-25		0
	Issuances															0			0		0		0
	Settlements															0			-40		-296		0
	Foreign currency translation															-18			0		2		0
	Other(1)															0			0		7		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															5			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-92			0		-64		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	330		$	48	$	1,053	$	0
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	-1		$	1	$	1	$	-9
			Other income												$	0		$	0	$	56	$	0
												Year Ended December 31, 2012
												Other Assets			Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
												(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period												$	9		$	19,358		$	-2,886	$	-3	$	-282
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net										0			0			231		-23		-4
			Other income										2			0			0		0		0
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances										0			1,932			0		0		0
	Purchases												0			4,230			0		0		0
	Sales												-3			-1,697			0		0		0
	Issuances												0			0			-694		0		-1,412
	Settlements												0			-2,272			0		26		0
	Foreign currency translation												0			0			1		0		0
	Other(1)												0			0			0		0		292
	Transfers into Level 3(2)												0			326			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)												0			-745			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period												$	8		$	21,132		$	-3,348	$	0	$	-1,406
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net									$	0		$	0		$	146	$	-23	$	-4
			Other income									$	2		$	0		$	0	$	0	$	0
			Interest credited to policyholders' account									$	0		$	1,013		$	0	$	0	$	0
Other primarily represents reclassifications of certain assets between reporting categories.
Transfers into or out of Level 3 are reported as the value as of the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurs.
Unrealized gains or losses related to assets still held at the end of the period do not include amortization or accretion of premiums and discounts.
Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
Transfers––Transfers into Level 3 are generally the result of unobservable inputs utilized within valuation methodologies and the use of indicative broker quotes for assets that were previously valued using observable inputs. Transfers out of Level 3 are generally due to the use of observable inputs in valuation methodologies as well as the availability of pricing service information for certain assets that the Company is able to validate.
Derivative Fair Value Information
The following tables present the balance of derivative assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, as of the date indicated, by primary underlying. These tables include NPR and exclude embedded derivatives which are typically recorded with the associated host contract. The derivative assets and liabilities shown below are included in “Trading account assets-All other,” “Other long-term investments” or “Other liabilities” in the tables presented previously in this note, under the headings “Assets and Liabilities by Hierarchy Level” and “Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities.”
				As of December 31, 2014
				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3				Netting (1)		Total
				(in millions)
Derivative assets:
	Interest Rate			$	5		$	10,584		$	6		$			$	10,595
	Currency				0			865			0						865
	Credit				0			7			0						7
	Currency/Interest Rate				0			1,885			0						1,885
	Equity				5			562			5						572
	Commodity				1			0			0						1
	Netting (1)													-12,332			-12,332
		Total derivative assets		$	11		$	13,903		$	11		$	-12,332		$	1,593
Derivative liabilities:
	Interest Rate			$	3		$	4,948		$	3		$			$	4,954
	Currency				0			1,025			0						1,025
	Credit				0			30			0						30
	Currency/Interest Rate				0			307			0						307
	Equity				0			503			0						503
	Commodity				0			0			0						0
	Netting (1)													-6,661			-6,661
		Total derivative liabilities		$	3		$	6,813		$	3		$	-6,661		$	158
				As of December 31, 2013
				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3				Netting (1)		Total
				(in millions)
Derivative assets:
	Interest Rate			$	10		$	6,122		$	8		$			$	6,140
	Currency				0			593			0						593
	Credit				0			3			0						3
	Currency/Interest Rate				0			647			0						647
	Equity				14			376			0						390
	Commodity				1			0			0						1
	Netting (1)													-7,241			-7,241
		Total derivative assets		$	25		$	7,741		$	8		$	-7,241		$	533
Derivative liabilities:
	Interest Rate			$	5		$	7,597		$	5		$			$	7,607
	Currency				0			425			0						425
	Credit				0			49			0						49
	Currency/Interest Rate				0			857			0						857
	Equity				1			474			0						475
	Commodity				0			0			0						0
	Netting (1)													-7,257			-7,257
		Total derivative liabilities		$	6		$	9,402		$	5		$	-7,257		$	2,156
“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty.
Changes in Level 3 derivative assets and liabilities - The following tables provide a summary of the changes in fair value of Level 3 derivative assets and liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2014, as well as the portion of gains or losses included in income for the year ended December 31, 2014, attributable to unrealized gains or losses related to those assets and liabilities still held at December 31, 2014.
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
						Derivative			Derivative
						Assets -			Assets -
						Equity			Interest Rate
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	3
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				1			0
			Other income				0			0
	Purchases						0			0
	Sales						0			0
	Issuances						0			0
	Settlements						0			0
	Transfers into Level 3(1)						5			0
	Transfers out of Level 3(1)						0			0
Fair Value, end of period						$	6		$	3
Unrealized gains (losses) for the period relating to those Level 3
	assets that were still held at the end of the period:
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	1		$	0
			Other income			$	0		$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2013
						Derivative			Derivative
						Assets -			Assets -
						Equity			Interest Rate
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	19		$	3
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				-15			0
			Other income				0			0
	Purchases						0			0
	Sales						0			0
	Issuances						0			0
	Settlements						-4			0
	Transfers into Level 3(1)						0			0
	Transfers out of Level 3(1)						0			0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	3
Unrealized gains (losses) for the period relating to those Level 3
	assets that were still held at the end of the period:
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	-15		$	0
			Other income			$	0		$	0
Transfers into or out of Level 3 are generally reported as the value as of the beginning of the period in which the transfer occurs.
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements―Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. There were no fair value reserve adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2014. There were fair value reserve adjustments resulting in a net loss of $9 million and a net gain of $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, on certain commercial mortgage loans. The carrying value of these loans as of December 31, 2013 was $27 million. The reserve adjustments were based on discounted cash flows utilizing market rates or the fair value of the underlying real estate collateral and the underlying assets were classified as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy.
There were no intangible asset impairments recorded for both the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. Impairments of $46 million were recorded related to the write off of intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2012. The impairments were primarily based on discounted cash flow models using assumptions and inputs specific to the Company, and those underlying assets are therefore, classified as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy.
For mortgage servicing rights, there were valuation reserve decreases of $7 million and $16 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and a valuation reserve increase of $14 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. Mortgage servicing rights are revalued based on internal models, utilizing inputs and classified as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy. The fair value for mortgage servicing rights is determined using a discounted cash flow model incorporating assumptions for servicing revenues, adjusted for expected prepayments, delinquency rates, escrow deposit income and estimated loan servicing expenses.
There were no impairments for both the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, and $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 on real estate held for investment. These impairments were based primarily on appraised value. Key inputs and assumptions to the appraisal process include rental income and expense amounts, related growth rates, discount rates and capitalization rates. Given the subjective nature of inputs and the judgment involved in the appraisal process, real estate investments are typically included in the Level 3 classification. For certain cost method investments, there were $21 million of impairments recorded for both the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. There were $4 million of impairments recorded for the year ended December 31, 2012. The methodologies utilized were primarily discounted future cash flow and, where appropriate, valuations provided by the general partners taking into consideration investment-related expenses. These cost method investments are classified as Level 3 in the valuation hierarchy.
Fair Value Option
The fair value option provides the Company an option to elect fair value as an alternative measurement for selected financial assets and financial liabilities not otherwise reported at fair value. Such elections have been made by the Company to help mitigate volatility in earnings that results from different measurement attributes. Electing the fair value option also allows the Company to achieve consistent accounting for certain assets and liabilities.
The following table presents information regarding changes in fair values recorded in earnings for commercial mortgage and other loans, other long-term investments and notes issued by consolidated variable interest entities (“VIEs”), where the fair value option has been elected.
					Years Ended December 31,
				2014			2013			2012
				(in millions)
Assets:
	Commercial mortgage and other loans:
		Changes in instrument-specific credit risk		$	0		$	0		$	0
		Other changes in fair value			0			0			-1
	Other long-term investments:
		Changes in fair value			54			68			40
Liabilities:
	Notes issued by consolidated variable interest entities:
		Changes in fair value		$	-201		$	-17		$	2
Changes in fair value are reflected in “Realized investment gains (losses), net” for commercial mortgage and other loans and “Other income” for other long-term investments and notes issued by consolidated variable interest entities. Changes in fair value due to instrument-specific credit risk are estimated based on changes in credit spreads and quality ratings for the period reported.
Interest income on commercial mortgage and other loans is included in net investment income. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded $11 million, $10 million and $13 million of interest income, respectively, on these fair value option loans. Interest income on these loans is recorded based on the effective interest rates as determined at the closing of the loan.
The fair values and aggregate contractual principal amounts of commercial mortgage and other loans, for which the fair value option has been elected, were $380 million and $372 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2014, and $158 million and $154 million, respectively, as December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014, there were no loans in non-accrual status and none of the loans are more than 90 days past due and still accruing.
The fair value of other long-term investments was $1,082 million and $873 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The fair value and aggregate contractual principal amounts of limited recourse notes issued by consolidated VIEs, for which the fair value option has been elected at issuance, were $6,033 million and $6,216 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2014, and $3,254 million and $3,276 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2013. Interest expense recorded for these liabilities was $200 million and $106 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The table below presents the carrying amount and fair value by fair value hierarchy level of certain financial instruments that are not reported at fair value. The financial instruments presented below are reported at carrying value on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Financial Position; however, in some cases, as described below, the carrying amount equals or approximates fair value.
				31-Dec-14
				Fair Value												Carrying Amount(1)
				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Total
				(in millions)
Assets:
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			$	0		$	1,703		$	1,199		$	2,902		$	2,575
	Commercial mortgage and other loans				0			559			48,158			48,717			46,052
	Policy loans				0			0			11,712			11,712			11,712
	Other long-term investments				0			0			1,917			1,917			1,712
	Short-term investments				0			523			0			523			523
	Cash and cash equivalents				2,230			843			0			3,073			3,073
	Accrued investment income				0			3,130			0			3,130			3,130
	Other assets				143			2,106			109			2,358			2,358
		Total assets		$	2,373		$	8,864		$	63,095		$	74,332		$	71,135
Liabilities:
	Policyholders' account balances - investment contracts			$	0		$	40,264		$	56,111		$	96,375		$	95,069
	Securities sold under agreements to repurchase				0			9,407			0			9,407			9,407
	Cash collateral for loaned securities				0			4,241			0			4,241			4,241
	Short-term debt				0			3,784			104			3,888			3,839
	Long-term debt				1,285			16,718			4,083			22,086			19,831
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs				0			0			18			18			25
	Other liabilities				0			6,254			120			6,374			6,374
	Separate account liabilities - investment contracts				0			82,801			24,175			106,976			106,976
		Total liabilities		$	1,285		$	163,469		$	84,611		$	249,365		$	245,762
				31-Dec-13
				Fair Value												Carrying Amount(1)
				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Total
				(in millions)
Assets:
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			$	0		$	2,065		$	1,488		$	3,553		$	3,312
	Commercial mortgage and other loans				0			639			42,010			42,649			40,850
	Policy loans				0			0			11,766			11,766			11,766
	Other long-term investments				0			0			2,470			2,470			2,203
	Short-term investments				0			518			0			518			518
	Cash and cash equivalents				3,661			796			0			4,457			4,457
	Accrued investment income				0			3,089			0			3,089			3,089
	Other assets				162			2,147			252			2,561			2,561
		Total assets		$	3,823		$	9,254		$	57,986		$	71,063		$	68,756
Liabilities:
	Policyholders' account balances - investment contracts			$	0		$	39,347		$	57,253		$	96,600		$	95,476
	Securities sold under agreements to repurchase				0			7,898			0			7,898			7,898
	Cash collateral for loaned securities				0			5,040			0			5,040			5,040
	Short-term debt				0			2,718			0			2,718			2,669
	Long-term debt				1,078			19,453			5,038			25,569			23,553
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs				0			0			39			39			48
	Other liabilities				0			5,803			266			6,069			6,069
	Separate account liabilities - investment contracts				0			82,071			22,163			104,234			104,234
		Total liabilities		$	1,078		$	162,330		$	84,759		$	248,167		$	244,987
Carrying values presented herein differ from those in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position because certain items within the respective financial statement captions are not considered financial instruments or out of scope under authoritative guidance relating to disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments. Financial statement captions excluded from the above table are not considered financial instruments.
The fair values presented above have been determined by using available market information and by applying market valuation methodologies, as described in more detail below.
Fixed Maturities, Held-to-Maturity
The fair values of public fixed maturity securities are generally based on prices from third-party pricing services, which are reviewed to validate reasonableness; however, for certain public fixed maturity securities and investments in private placement fixed maturity securities, this information is either not available or not reliable. For these public fixed maturity securities, the fair value is based on indicative broker quotes, if available, or determined using a discounted cash flow model or internally-developed values. For private fixed maturities, fair value is determined using a discounted cash flow model. In determining the fair value of certain fixed maturity securities, the discounted cash flow model may also use unobservable inputs, which reflect the Company's own assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the security.
Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans
The fair value of most commercial mortgage loans is based upon the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the appropriate U.S. Treasury rate or foreign government bond rate (for non-U.S. dollar-denominated loans) plus an appropriate credit spread for similar quality loans. The quality ratings for these loans, a primary determinant of the credit spreads and a significant component of the pricing process, are based on an internally-developed methodology.
Certain commercial mortgage loans are valued incorporating other factors, including the terms of the loans, the principal exit strategies for the loans, prevailing interest rates and credit risk. Other loan valuations are primarily based upon the present value of the expected future cash flows discounted at the appropriate local government bond rate and local market swap rates or credit default swap spreads, plus an appropriate credit spread and liquidity premium. The credit spread and liquidity premium are a significant component of the pricing inputs, and are based upon an internally-developed methodology, which takes into account, among other factors, the credit quality of the loans, the property type of the collateral, the weighted average coupon and the weighted average life of the loans.
Policy Loans
During the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company changed the valuation technique used to fair value policy loans. For the periods ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the fair value of policy loans was determined by discounting expected cash flows at the current loan coupon rate. As a result, the carrying value of the policy loans approximates the fair value for both the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. Prior to this change, the fair value of U.S. insurance policy loans was calculated by discounting expected cash flows based upon current U.S. Treasury rates and historical loan repayment patterns, while Japanese insurance policy loans used the risk-free proxy based on the yen LIBOR.
Other Long-term Investments
Other long-term investments include investments in joint ventures and limited partnerships. The estimated fair values of these cost method investments are generally based on the Company's share of the net asset value (“NAV”) as provided in the financial statements of the investees. In certain circumstances, management may adjust the NAV by a premium or discount when it has sufficient evidence to support applying such adjustments. No such adjustments were made as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Short-Term Investments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Accrued Investment Income and Other Assets
The Company believes that due to the short-term nature of certain assets, the carrying value approximates fair value. These assets include: certain short-term investments which are not securities, are recorded at amortized cost and include quality loans; cash and cash equivalent instruments; accrued investment income; and other assets that meet the definition of financial instruments, including receivables, such as reinsurance recoverables, unsettled trades, accounts receivable and restricted cash.
Policyholders' Account Balances – Investment Contracts
Only the portion of policyholders' account balances related to products that are investment contracts (those without significant mortality or morbidity risk) are reflected in the table above. For fixed deferred annuities, single premium endowments, payout annuities and other similar contracts without life contingencies, fair values are derived using discounted projected cash flows based on interest rates that are representative of the Company's financial strength ratings, and hence reflect the Company's own NPR. For guaranteed investment contracts, funding agreements, structured settlements without life contingencies and other similar products, fair values are derived using discounted projected cash flows based on interest rates being offered for similar contracts with maturities consistent with those of the contracts being valued. For those balances that can be withdrawn by the customer at any time without prior notice or penalty, the fair value is the amount estimated to be payable to the customer as of the reporting date, which is generally the carrying value. For defined contribution and defined benefit contracts and certain other products, the fair value is the market value of the assets supporting the liabilities.
Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase
The Company receives collateral for selling securities under agreements to repurchase, or pledges collateral under agreements to resell. Repurchase and resale agreements are also generally short-term in nature and, therefore, the carrying amounts of these instruments approximate fair value.
Cash Collateral for Loaned Securities
Cash collateral for loaned securities represents the collateral received or paid in connection with loaning or borrowing securities, similar to the securities sold under agreement to repurchase above. For these transactions, the carrying value of the related asset or liability approximates fair value, as they equal the amount of cash collateral received or paid.
Debt
The fair value of short-term and long-term debt, as well as notes issued by consolidated VIEs, is generally determined by either prices obtained from independent pricing services, which are validated by the Company, or discounted cash flow models. With the exception of the notes issued by consolidated VIEs for which recourse is limited to the assets of the respective VIE and does not extend to the general credit of the Company, the fair values of these instruments consider the Company's own NPR. Discounted cash flow models predominately use market observable inputs such as the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for debt and financial instruments with similar terms and remaining maturities. For commercial paper issuances and other debt with a maturity of less than 90 days, the carrying value approximates fair value.
A portion of the IHC Debt issued by Prudential Holdings, LLC was insured by a third-party financial guarantee insurance policy. The effect of the third-party credit enhancement is not included in the fair value measurement of the IHC Debt and the methodologies used to determine fair value consider the Company's own NPR. On December 18, 2014, the Company redeemed all of the then outstanding IHC Debt.
Other Liabilities
Other liabilities are primarily payables, such as reinsurance payables, unsettled trades, drafts and accrued expense payables. Due to the short term until settlement of most of these liabilities, the Company believes that carrying value approximates fair value.
Separate Account Liabilities–Investment Contracts
Only the portion of separate account liabilities related to products that are investment contracts are reflected in the table above. Separate account liabilities are recorded at the amount credited to the contractholder, which reflects the change in fair value of the corresponding separate account assets including contractholder deposits less withdrawals and fees; therefore, carrying value approximates fair value.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments
Derivative Instruments	21. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
	Types of Derivative Instruments and Derivative Strategies
	Interest Rate Contracts
	Interest rate swaps, options, and futures are used by the Company to reduce risks from changes in interest rates, manage interest rate exposures arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities (including duration mismatches) and to hedge against changes in the value of assets it owns or anticipates acquiring or selling. Swaps may be attributed to specific assets or liabilities or may be used on a portfolio basis. Under interest rate swaps, the Company agrees with counterparties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed-rate and floating-rate interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed upon notional principal amount.
	The Company also uses swaptions, interest rate caps, and interest rate floors to manage interest rate risk. A swaption is an option to enter into a swap with a forward starting effective date. The Company pays a premium for purchased swaptions and receives a premium for written swaptions. In an interest rate cap, the buyer receives payments at the end of each period in which the interest rate exceeds the agreed strike price. Similarly, in an interest rate floor, the buyer receives payments at the end of each period in which the interest rate is below the agreed strike price. Swaptions and interest rate caps and floors are included in interest rate options.
	In exchange-traded interest rate futures transactions, the Company purchases or sells a specified number of contracts, the values of which are determined by the values of underlying referenced investments, and posts variation margin on a daily basis in an amount equal to the difference in the daily market values of those contracts. The Company enters into exchange-traded futures with regulated futures commission's merchants who are members of a trading exchange.
	Equity Contracts
	Equity index options are contracts which will settle in cash based on differentials in the underlying indices at the time of exercise and the strike price. The Company uses combinations of purchases and sales of equity index options to hedge the effects of adverse changes in equity indices within a predetermined range.
	Total return swaps are contracts whereby the Company agrees with counterparties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between the return on an asset (or market index) and LIBOR based on a notional amount. The Company generally uses total return swaps to hedge the effect of adverse changes in equity indices.
	Foreign Exchange Contracts
	Currency derivatives, including currency futures, options, forwards, and swaps, are used by the Company to reduce risks from changes in currency exchange rates with respect to investments denominated in foreign currencies that the Company either holds or intends to acquire or sell, and to hedge the currency risk associated with net investments in foreign operations and anticipated earnings of its foreign operations.
	Under currency forwards, the Company agrees with counterparties to deliver a specified amount of an identified currency at a specified future date. Typically, the price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at the specified future date. As noted above, the Company uses currency forwards to mitigate the impact of changes in currency exchange rates on U.S. dollar equivalent earnings generated by certain of its non-U.S. businesses, primarily its international insurance and investments operations. The Company executes forward sales of the hedged currency in exchange for U.S. dollars at a specified exchange rate. The maturities of these forwards correspond with the future periods in which the non-U.S. dollar-denominated earnings are expected to be generated. These earnings hedges do not qualify for hedge accounting.
	Under currency swaps, the Company agrees with counterparties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between one currency and another at an exchange rate and calculated by reference to an agreed principal amount. Generally, the principal amount of each currency is exchanged at the beginning and termination of the currency swap by each party.
	Credit Contracts
	The Company writes credit default swaps for which it receives a premium to insure credit risk. These are used by the Company to enhance the return on the Company's investment portfolio by creating credit exposure similar to an investment in public fixed maturity cash instruments. With these derivatives, the Company sells credit protection on an identified name, or an index of names, and in return receives a quarterly premium. This premium or credit spread generally corresponds to the difference between the yield on the referenced names (or an index's referenced names) public fixed maturity cash instruments and swap rates, at the time the agreement is executed. If there is an event of default by the referenced name or one of the referenced names in the index, as defined by the agreement, then the Company is obligated to pay the referenced amount of the contract to the counterparty and receive in return the referenced defaulted security or similar security or (in the case of a credit default index) pay the referenced amount less the auction recovery rate. See credit derivatives written section for further discussion of guarantees. In addition to selling credit protection the Company has purchased credit protection using credit derivatives in order to hedge specific credit exposures in the Company's investment portfolio.
	Other Contracts
	TBAs. The Company uses TBA forward contracts to gain exposure to the investment risk and return of mortgage-backed securities. TBA transactions can help the Company enhance the return on its investment portfolio, and can provide a more liquid and cost effective method of achieving these goals than purchasing or selling individual mortgage-backed pools. Typically, the price is agreed upon at the time of the contract and payment for such a contract is made at a specified future date. Additionally, pursuant to the Company's mortgage dollar roll program, TBAs or mortgage-backed securities are transferred to counterparties with a corresponding agreement to repurchase them at a future date. These transactions do not qualify as secured borrowings and are accounted for as derivatives.
	Loan Commitments. In its mortgage operations, the Company enters into commitments to fund commercial mortgage loans at specified interest rates and other applicable terms within specified periods of time. These commitments are legally binding agreements to extend credit to a counterparty. Loan commitments for loans that will be held for sale are recognized as derivatives and recorded at fair value. The determination of the fair value of loan commitments accounted for as derivatives considers various factors including, among others, terms of the related loan, the intended exit strategy for the loans based upon either securitization valuation models or investor purchase commitments, prevailing interest rates, origination income or expense, and the value of service rights. Loan commitments that relate to the origination of mortgage loans that will be held for investment are not accounted for as derivatives and accordingly are not recognized in the Company's financial statements. See Note 23 for a further discussion of these loan commitments.
	Embedded Derivatives. The Company sells variable annuity products, which may include guaranteed benefit features that are accounted for as embedded derivatives. These embedded derivatives are marked to market through “Realized investment gains (losses), net” based on the change in value of the underlying contractual guarantees, which are determined using valuation models. The Company maintains a portfolio of derivative instruments that is intended to economically hedge the risks related to the above products' features. The derivatives may include, but are not limited to equity options, total return swaps, interest rate swaptions, caps, floors, and other instruments.
	Prior to disposal in the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company invested in fixed maturities that, in addition to a stated coupon, provided a return based upon the results of an underlying portfolio of fixed income investments and related investment activity. The Company accounted for these investments as available-for-sale fixed maturities containing embedded derivatives. Such embedded derivatives are marked to market through “Realized investment gains (losses), net,” based upon the change in value of the underlying portfolio.
	Synthetic Guarantees. The Company sells synthetic GICs, through both full service and investment-only sales channels, to qualified pension plans. The assets are owned by the trustees of such plans, who invest the assets according to the contract terms agreed to with the Company. The contracts contain a guarantee of a minimum rate of return on participant balances supported by the underlying assets, and a guarantee of liquidity to meet certain participant-initiated withdrawals from the contract. Under U.S. GAAP, these contracts are accounted for as derivatives and recorded at fair value.
	The table below provides a summary of the gross notional amount and fair value of derivatives contracts by the primary underlying, excluding embedded derivatives which are recorded with the associated host. Many derivative instruments contain multiple underlyings. The fair value amounts below represent the gross fair value of derivative contracts prior to taking into account the netting effects of master netting agreements, cash collateral held with the same counterparty, and non-performance risk. This netting impact results in total derivative assets of $1,593 million and $533 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and total derivative liabilities of $158 million and $2,156 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.
									31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
				Primary Underlying/						Gross Fair Value							Gross Fair Value
				Instrument Type					Notional(1)	Assets		Liabilities			Notional(1)(2)		Assets(2)		Liabilities(2)
								(in millions)
				Derivatives Designated as Hedge
				Accounting Instruments:
					Interest Rate
						Interest Rate Swaps		$	1,714	$	21	$	-191	$	2,556		$	26	$	-253
					Foreign Currency
						Foreign Currency Forwards			443		5		-14		534			1		-32
					Currency/Interest Rate
						Foreign Currency Swaps			10,772		679		-161		9,502			233		-553
						Total Qualifying Hedges		$	12,929	$	705	$	-366	$	12,592		$	260	$	-838
				Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
				Accounting Instruments:
					Interest Rate
						Interest Rate Swaps		$	182,937	$	9,904	$	-4,578	$	171,337		$	5,727	$	-7,051
						Interest Rate Futures			32,008		5		-3		34,424			10		-5
						Interest Rate Options			27,561		663		-180		25,308			370		-297
						Interest Rate Forwards			877		2		-1		1,452			0		-6
					Foreign Currency
						Foreign Currency Forwards			21,197		854		-1,011		13,122			587		-393
						Foreign Currency Options			203		6		0		118			5		0
					Currency/Interest Rate
						Foreign Currency Swaps			11,083		1,207		-145		7,787			414		-304
					Credit
						Credit Default Swaps			2,622		7		-30		1,890			3		-49
					Equity
						Equity Futures			331		3		0		262			1		-1
						Equity Options			57,590		504		-41		61,231			388		-12
						Total Return Swaps			15,217		65		-462		11,554			1		-462
					Commodity
						Commodity Futures			18		1		0		37			1		0
					Synthetic GICs(3)				74,707		6		0		78,110			8		0
						Total Non-Qualifying Derivatives(4)		$	426,351	$	13,227	$	-6,451	$	406,632		$	7,515	$	-8,580
						Total Derivatives(5)		$	439,280	$	13,932	$	-6,817	$	419,224		$	7,775	$	-9,418
	Notional amounts are presented on a gross basis and include derivatives used to offset existing positions.
	Prior period has been revised to include the gross notional amount and fair value of derivative contracts used in a broker-dealer capacity.
	The gross notional amount as of December 31, 2013 has been revised from $60,758 million to $78,110 million to correct the previously reported amount. This amount does not impact the Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Based on notional amounts, most of the Company's derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting as follows: i) derivatives that economically hedge embedded derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting because changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives are already recorded in net income, ii) derivatives that are utilized as macro hedges of the Company's exposure to various risks typically do not qualify for hedge accounting because they do not meet the criteria required under portfolio hedge accounting rules, and iii) synthetic GICs, which are product standalone derivatives that do not qualify as hedging instruments under hedge accounting rules.
	Excludes embedded derivatives which contain multiple underlyings. The fair value of these embedded derivatives was a net liability of $8,162 million as of December 31, 2014 and a net liability of $430 million as of December 31, 2013, primarily included in “Future policy benefits.”
	Offsetting Assets and Liabilities
The following table presents recognized derivative instruments (including bifurcated embedded derivatives), and repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements that are offset in the balance sheet, and/or are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement, irrespective of whether they are offset in the balance sheet.
					31-Dec-14
							Gross		Net
					Gross		Amounts		Amounts
					Amounts of		Offset in the		Presented in
					Recognized		Statement of		the Statement		Financial
					Financial		Financial		of Financial		Instruments/			Net
					Instruments		Position		Position		Collateral(1)			Amount
					(in millions)
Offsetting of Financial Assets:
Derivatives(1)					$	13,786	$	-12,332	$	1,454	$	-623		$	831
Securities purchased under agreement to resell						702		0		702		-702			0
Total Assets					$	14,488	$	-12,332	$	2,156	$	-1,325		$	831
Offsetting of Financial Liabilities:
Derivatives(1)					$	6,810	$	-6,661	$	149	$	-149		$	0
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase						9,407		0		9,407		-9,407			0
Total Liabilities					$	16,217	$	-6,661	$	9,556	$	-9,556		$	0
					31-Dec-13
							Gross		Net
					Gross		Amounts		Amounts
					Amounts of		Offset in the		Presented in
					Recognized		Statement of		the Statement		Financial
					Financial		Financial		of Financial		Instruments/			Net
					Instruments		Position		Position		Collateral(1)			Amount
					(in millions)
Offsetting of Financial Assets:
Derivatives(1)					$	7,721	$	-7,241	$	480	$	-480		$	0
Securities purchased under agreement to resell						656		0		656		-656			0
Total Assets					$	8,377	$	-7,241	$	1,136	$	-1,136		$	0
Offsetting of Financial Liabilities:
Derivatives(1)					$	9,408	$	-7,257	$	2,151	$	-1,999		$	152
Securities sold under agreement to repurchase						7,898		0		7,898		-7,898			0
Total Liabilities					$	17,306	$	-7,257	$	10,049	$	-9,897		$	152
Amounts exclude the excess of collateral received/pledged from/to the counterparty. Prior period has been revised to conform to current period presentation.
For information regarding the rights of offset associated with the derivative assets and liabilities in the table above see “—Counterparty Credit Risk” below. For securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold under agreements to repurchase, the Company monitors the value of the securities and maintains collateral, as appropriate, to protect against credit exposure. Where the Company has entered into repurchase and resale agreements with the same counterparty, in the event of default, the Company would generally be permitted to exercise rights of offset. For additional information on the Company's accounting policy for securities repurchase and resale agreements, see Note 2 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
Cash Flow, Fair Value and Net Investment Hedges
The primary derivative instruments used by the Company in its fair value, cash flow, and net investment hedge accounting relationships are interest rate swaps, currency swaps and currency forwards. These instruments are only designated for hedge accounting in instances where the appropriate criteria are met. The Company does not use futures, options, credit, equity or embedded derivatives in any of its fair value, cash flow or net investment hedge accounting relationships.
The following table provides the financial statement classification and impact of derivatives used in qualifying and non-qualifying hedge relationships, excluding the offset of the hedged item in an effective hedge relationship.
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
													Interest
													Credited			Accumulated
					Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
					Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
					Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
						(in millions)
Derivatives Designated as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
Fair value hedges
	Interest Rate				$	-4	$	-57	$	0	$	0	$	2		$	0
	Currency					-9		-1		0		0		0			0
	Total fair value hedges					-13		-58		0		0		2			0
Cash flow hedges
	Interest Rate					0		0		0		-22		0			38
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		7		67		0		0			614
	Total cash flow hedges					0		7		67		-22		0			652
Net investment hedges
	Currency					0		0		0		0		0			17
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			128
		Total net investment hedges				0		0		0		0		0			145
Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
	Interest Rate					7,623		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency					-562		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency/Interest Rate					1,124		0		5		0		0			0
	Credit					-22		0		0		0		0			0
	Equity					-1,605		0		0		0		0			0
	Commodity					1		0		0		0		0			0
	Embedded Derivatives					-6,734		0		0		0		0			0
	Total non-qualifying hedges					-175		0		5		0		0			0
Total					$	-188	$	-51	$	72	$	-22	$	2		$	797
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
													Interest
													Credited			Accumulated
					Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
					Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
					Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
						(in millions)
Derivatives Designated as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
Fair value hedges
	Interest Rate				$	103	$	-71	$	0	$	0	$	20		$	0
	Currency					-80		-1		0		0		0			0
	Total fair value hedges					23		-72		0		0		20			0
Cash flow hedges
	Interest Rate					0		0		0		-23		0			26
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		2		-91		0		0			-215
	Total cash flow hedges					0		2		-91		-23		0			-189
Net investment hedges
	Currency(2)					0		0		-4		0		0			6
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			233
	Total net investment hedges					0		0		-4		0		0			239
Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
	Interest Rate					-5,254		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency					-591		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency/Interest Rate					131		0		-2		0		0			0
	Credit					-4		0		0		0		0			0
	Equity					-3,684		0		0		0		0			0
	Commodity					1		0		0		0		0			0
	Embedded Derivatives					3,752		0		0		0		0			0
	Total non-qualifying hedges					-5,649		0		-2		0		0			0
Total					$	-5,626	$	-70	$	-97	$	-23	$	20		$	50
					Year Ended December 31, 2012
													Interest
													Credited			Accumulated
					Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
					Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
					Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
						(in millions)
Derivatives Designated as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
Fair value hedges
	Interest Rate				$	22	$	-92	$	0	$	4	$	33		$	0
	Currency					-37		-3		0		0		0			0
	Total fair value hedges					-15		-95		0		4		33			0
Cash flow hedges
	Interest Rate					0		0		0		-19		-1			14
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		-5		-20		0		0			-185
	Total cash flow hedges					0		-5		-20		-19		-1			-171
Net investment hedges
	Currency(2)					-1		0		0		0		0			-9
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			228
			Total net investment hedges			-1		0		0		0		0			219
Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
	Interest Rate					413		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency					-64		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency/Interest Rate					235		0		0		0		0			0
	Credit					-34		0		0		0		0			0
	Equity					-2,302		0		0		0		0			0
	Commodity					0		0		0		0		0			0
	Embedded Derivatives					251		0		0		0		0			0
	Total non-qualifying hedges					-1,501		0		0		0		0			0
Total					$	-1,517	$	-100	$	-20	$	-15	$	32		$	48
Amounts deferred in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”
Relates to the sale of equity method investments.
For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the ineffective portion of derivatives accounted for using hedge accounting was not material to the Company's results of operations. Also, there were no material amounts reclassified into earnings relating to instances in which the Company discontinued cash flow hedge accounting because the forecasted transaction did not occur by the anticipated date or within the additional time period permitted by the authoritative guidance for the accounting for derivatives and hedging. In addition, there were no instances in which the Company discontinued fair value hedge accounting due to a hedged firm commitment no longer qualifying as a fair value hedge.
Presented below is a rollforward of current period cash flow hedges in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” before taxes:
					(in millions)
Balance, December 31, 2011					$	-86
Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2012						-219
Amount reclassified into current period earnings						48
Balance, December 31, 2012						-257
Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2013						-317
Amount reclassified into current period earnings						128
Balance, December 31, 2013						-446
Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2014						706
Amount reclassified into current period earnings						-54
Balance, December 31, 2014					$	206
Using December 31, 2014 values, it is anticipated that a pre-tax gain of approximately $27 million will be reclassified from “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” to earnings during the subsequent twelve months ending December 31, 2015, offset by amounts pertaining to the hedged items. As of December 31, 2014, the Company does not have any qualifying cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions other than those related to the variability of the payment or receipt of interest or foreign currency amounts on existing financial instruments. The maximum length of time for which these variable cash flows are hedged is 29 years. Income amounts deferred in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” as a result of cash flow hedges are included in “Net unrealized investment gains (losses)” in the Consolidated Statements of Equity.
For effective net investment hedges, the amounts, before applicable taxes, recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account within “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” were $501 million in 2014, $356 million in 2013, and $117 million in 2012.
Credit Derivatives
Credit derivatives, where the Company has written credit protection on a single name reference, had outstanding notional amounts of $5 million as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013. These credit derivatives are reported at fair value as an asset of less than $1 million, as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013. These credit derivatives have a NAIC designation of 2. The Company has also written credit protection on an index reference, and has a notional amount of $1,544 million, reported at fair value as a liability of $2 million as of December 31, 2014. These credit derivatives have a NAIC designation of 3, which is based on the lowest rated single name reference included in the index. As of December 31, 2013, the Company had no outstanding written credit protection on an index reference.
The Company's maximum amount at risk under these credit derivatives equals the aforementioned notional amounts and assumes the value of the underlying referenced securities become worthless. These single name credit derivatives have maturities of less than 1 year, while the credit protection on the index reference has a maturity of less than 10 years. This excludes a credit derivative related to surplus notes issued by a subsidiary of Prudential Insurance (noted below).
The Company also entered into a credit derivative that will require the Company to make certain payments in the event of deterioration in the value of the surplus notes issued by a subsidiary of Prudential Insurance. The notional amount of this credit derivative is $500 million and the fair value as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 was a liability of $4 million. No collateral was pledged in either period.
In addition to writing credit protection, the Company has purchased credit protection using credit derivatives in order to hedge specific credit exposures in the Company's investment portfolio. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had $573 million and $1,399 million of outstanding notional amounts, respectively, reported at fair value as a liability of $17 million and $42 million, respectively.
Counterparty Credit Risk
The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of non-performance by counterparties to financial derivative transactions. The Company manages credit risk by entering into derivative transactions with highly rated major international financial institutions and other creditworthy counterparties, and by obtaining collateral, such as cash and securities, when appropriate. Additionally, limits are set on single party credit exposures which are subject to periodic management review.
The credit exposure of the Company's OTC derivative transactions is represented by the contracts with a positive fair value at the reporting date. To reduce credit exposures, the Company seeks to (i) enter into OTC derivative transactions pursuant to master agreements that provide for a netting of payments and receipts with a single counterparty, and (ii) enter into agreements that allow the use of credit support annexes, which are bilateral rating-sensitive agreements that require collateral postings at established threshold levels. Cleared derivatives are transactions between the Company and a counterparty where the transactions are cleared through a clearinghouse, such that each derivative counterparty is only exposed to the default of the clearinghouse. These cleared transactions require initial and daily variation margin collateral postings and include certain interest rate swaps and credit default swaps entered into on or after June 10, 2013, related to guidelines under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. The Company also enters into exchange-traded futures and certain options transactions through regulated exchanges and these transactions are settled on a daily basis, thereby reducing credit risk exposure in the event of non-performance by counterparties to such financial instruments.
Under fair value measurements, the Company incorporates the market's perception of its own and the counterparty's non-performance risk in determining the fair value of the portion of its OTC derivative assets and liabilities that are uncollateralized. Credit spreads are applied to the derivative fair values on a net basis by counterparty. To reflect the Company's own credit spread a proxy based on relevant debt spreads is applied to OTC derivative net liability positions. Similarly, the Company's counterparty's credit spread is applied to OTC derivative net asset positions.
Certain of the Company's derivative agreements with some of its counterparties contain credit-rating related triggers. If the Company's credit rating were to fall below a certain level, the counterparties to the derivative instruments could request termination at the then fair value of the derivative or demand immediate full collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. If a downgrade occurred and the derivative positions were terminated, the Company anticipates it would be able to replace the derivative positions with other counterparties in the normal course of business. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that are in a net liability position was $1 million as of December 31, 2014. In the normal course of business the Company has posted collateral related to these instruments of $38 million as of December 31, 2014. If the credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements had been triggered on December 31, 2014, the Company estimates that it would be required to post no additional collateral to its counterparties.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	22.    SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Segments
	From demutualization through the periods ended December 31, 2014, the Company has organized its principal operations into the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business. Within the Financial Services Businesses, the Company operates through three divisions, which together encompass six reportable segments. Divested businesses and businesses that are not sufficiently material to warrant separate disclosure are included in Corporate and Other operations within the Financial Services Businesses. Collectively, the businesses that comprise the three operating divisions and Corporate and Other are referred to as the Financial Services Businesses.
	As a result of the Class B Repurchase, for reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, the Company will no longer organize its principal operations into the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business. In addition to the divisions noted above and its Corporate and Other operations, the Company will report a Closed Block division, which will be accounted for as a divested business that is reported separately from the divested businesses that are included in Corporate and Other operations. See Note 1 and 25 for additional information.
	U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division. The U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management division consists of the Individual Annuities, Retirement, and Asset Management segments. The Individual Annuities segment manufactures and distributes individual variable and fixed annuity products, primarily to the U.S. mass affluent market. The Retirement segment manufactures and distributes products and provides administrative services for qualified and non-qualified retirement plans and offers innovative pension risk transfer solutions, investment-only stable value products, guaranteed investment contracts, funding agreements, institutional and retail notes, structured settlement annuities and other group annuities. The Asset Management segment provides a broad array of investment management and advisory services by means of institutional portfolio management, mutual funds, asset securitization activity and other structured products, and strategic investments. These products and services are provided to the public and private marketplace, as well as to other segments of the Company.
	U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division. The U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance division consists of the Individual Life and Group Insurance segments. The Individual Life segment manufactures and distributes individual variable life, term life and universal life insurance products primarily to the U.S. mass middle, mass affluent and affluent markets. The Individual Life segment also includes the results of the individual life business acquired from The Hartford on January 2, 2013. The Group Insurance segment manufactures and distributes a full range of group life, long-term and short-term group disability, and group corporate-, bank- and trust-owned life insurance in the U.S. primarily to institutional clients for use in connection with employee plans and affinity groups.
	International Insurance Division. The International Insurance division consists of the International Insurance segment, which manufactures and distributes individual life insurance, retirement and related products to the mass affluent and affluent markets in Japan, Korea and other foreign countries through its Life Planner operations. In addition, similar products are offered to the broad middle income market across Japan through Life Consultants, the proprietary distribution channel of the Company's Gibraltar Life operation, as well as other channels, including banks and independent agencies.
	Corporate and Other. Corporate and Other includes corporate operations, after allocations to business segments, and divested businesses. Corporate operations consist primarily of: (1) investment returns on capital that is not deployed in any business segments; (2) returns from investments not allocated to business segments, including debt-financed investment portfolios, as well as tax credit investments and other tax enhanced investments financed by business segments; (3) capital debt that is used or will be used to meet the capital requirements of the Company and the related interest expense; (4) income and expense from qualified pension and other employee benefit plans, after allocations to business segments; (5) corporate-level income and expense, after allocations to business segments, including corporate governance, corporate advertising, philanthropic activities, deferred compensation, and costs related to certain contingencies and enhanced regulatory supervision; (6) certain retained obligations relating to pre-demutualization policyholders; (7) results related to the Company's capital protection framework; (8) results related to a life insurance joint venture and an asset management company joint venture in China; and (9) the impact of transactions with other segments.
	Closed Block Business. The Closed Block Business, which is managed separately from the Financial Services Businesses, was established on the date of demutualization. It has included the Closed Block (as discussed in Note 12); assets held outside the Closed Block necessary to meet insurance regulatory capital requirements related to products included within the Closed Block; deferred policy acquisition costs related to the Closed Block policies; the principal amount of the IHC Debt (as discussed in Note 14) and certain related assets and liabilities. Under U.S. GAAP, the Closed Block Business is a reporting segment of the Company.
	Segment Accounting Policies. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 2. Results for each segment include earnings on attributed equity established at a level which management considers necessary to support each segment's risks. Operating expenses specifically identifiable to a particular segment are allocated to that segment as incurred. Operating expenses not identifiable to a specific segment that are incurred in connection with the generation of segment revenues are generally allocated based upon the segment's historical percentage of general and administrative expenses.
	For information related to significant acquisitions and disposition, see Note 3. For information related to the adoption of new accounting pronouncements, see Note 2. The segments' results in prior years have been revised for these items, as applicable, to conform to the current year presentation.
	Adjusted Operating Income
	In managing the Financial Services Businesses, the Company analyzes the operating performance of each segment using “adjusted operating income.” Adjusted operating income does not equate to “income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” or “net income” as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP but is the measure of segment profit or loss used by the Company's chief operating decision maker to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources, and consistent with authoritative guidance, is the measure of segment performance presented below. Adjusted operating income is calculated by adjusting each segment's “income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the following items, which are described in greater detail below:
	realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments;
	net investment gains and losses on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and changes in experience-rated contractholder liabilities due to asset value changes;
	the contribution to income/loss of divested businesses that have been or will be sold or exited, including businesses that have been placed in wind down status, but that did not qualify for “discontinued operations” accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP; and
	equity in earnings of operating joint ventures and earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests.
	These items are important to an understanding of overall results of operations. Adjusted operating income is not a substitute for income determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and the Company's definition of adjusted operating income may differ from that used by other companies. However, the Company believes that the presentation of adjusted operating income as measured for management purposes enhances the understanding of results of operations by highlighting the results from ongoing operations and the underlying profitability factors of the Financial Services Businesses.
	For reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, the Closed Block division will be accounted for as a divested business under the Company's definition of adjusted operating income. Both the current reporting of the Closed Block Business and the future reporting of the Closed Block division exclude its results from adjusted operating income.
	In addition, as discussed in Note 1, during 2014, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $193 million to “Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014. These adjustments resulted in a decrease in adjusted operating income of $165 million for the year, principally consisting of a net decrease of $67 million for the Group Insurance segment and $75 million for the International Insurance segment. As previously disclosed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, during 2012, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $170 million to “Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012. These adjustments resulted in a decrease in adjusted operating income of $160 million for the year, principally $61 million to the Asset Management segment and $99 million to Corporate and Other operations.
	Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments
	Realized investment gains (losses), net
	Adjusted operating income excludes “Realized investment gains (losses), net,” except for certain items described below. Significant activity excluded from adjusted operating income includes impairments and credit-related gains and losses from sales of securities, the timing of which depends largely on market credit cycles and can vary considerably across periods, and interest rate-related gains and losses from sales of securities, which are largely subject to the Company's discretion and influenced by market opportunities, as well as the Company's tax and capital profile. Additionally, certain gains and losses pertaining to derivative contracts that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are also excluded from adjusted operating income. Trends in the underlying profitability of the Company's businesses can be more clearly identified without the fluctuating effects of these transactions.
	The following table sets forth the significant components of “Realized investment gains (losses), net” that are included in adjusted operating income and, as a result, are reflected as adjustments to “Realized investment gains (losses), net” for purposes of calculating adjusted operating income:
				Years Ended December 31,
				2014			2013		2012
	Net gains (losses) from(1):			(in millions)
		Terminated hedges of foreign currency earnings		$	293		$	240	$	-75
		Current period yield adjustments		$	476		$	445	$	320
		Principal source of earnings		$	100		$	122	$	91
	In addition to the items in the table above, “Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments” also includes an adjustment to reflect “Realized investment gains (losses), net” related to divested businesses as results of “Divested businesses”, discussed below.
	Terminated Hedges of Foreign Currency Earnings. The amounts shown in the table above primarily reflect the impact of an intercompany arrangement between Corporate and Other operations and the International Insurance segment, pursuant to which the non-U.S. dollar-denominated earnings in all countries for a particular year, including its interim reporting periods, are translated at fixed currency exchange rates. The fixed rates are determined in connection with a currency hedging program designed to mitigate the risk that unfavorable rate changes will reduce the segment's U.S. dollar equivalent earnings. Pursuant to this program, the Company's Corporate and Other operations may execute forward currency contracts with third parties to sell the net exposure of projected earnings from the hedged currency in exchange for U.S. dollars at a specified exchange rate. The maturities of these contracts correspond with the future periods in which the identified non-U.S. dollar-denominated earnings are expected to be generated. These contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting under U.S. GAAP, so the resulting profits or losses are recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” When the contracts are terminated in the same period that the expected earnings emerge, the resulting positive or negative cash flow effect is included in adjusted operating income.
	Current Period Yield Adjustments. The Company uses interest rate and currency swaps and other derivatives to manage interest and currency exchange rate exposures arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities, including duration mismatches. For derivative contracts that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, the periodic swap settlements, as well as certain other derivative related yield adjustments are recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net”, and are included in adjusted operating income to reflect the after-hedge yield of the underlying instruments. In certain instances, when these derivative contracts are terminated or offset before their final maturity, the resulting realized gains or losses are recognized in adjusted operating income over periods that generally approximate the expected terms of the derivatives or underlying instruments in order for adjusted operating income to reflect the after-hedge yield of the underlying instruments. Included in the amounts shown in the table above are gains on certain derivative contracts that were terminated or offset before their final maturity of $105 million, $72 million and $64 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2014, there was a $218 million deferred net gain related to certain derivative contracts that were terminated or offset before their final maturity, primarily in the International Insurance segment. Also included in the amounts shown in the table above are fees related to synthetic GICs of $168 million, $157 million and $120 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Synthetic GICs are accounted for as derivatives under U.S. GAAP and, therefore, these fees are recorded in "Realized investment gains (losses), net." See Note 21 for additional information on synthetic GICs.
	Principal Source of Earnings. The Company conducts certain activities for which realized investment gains and losses are a principal source of earnings for its businesses and therefore included in adjusted operating income, particularly within the Company's Asset Management segment. For example, Asset Management's strategic investing business makes investments for sale or syndication to other investors or for placement or co-investment in the Company's managed funds and structured products. The realized investment gains and losses associated with the sale of these strategic investments, as well as related derivative results, are a principal activity for this business and included in adjusted operating income. In addition, the realized investment gains and losses associated with loans originated by the Company's commercial mortgage operations, as well as related derivative results and retained mortgage servicing rights, are a principal activity for this business and included in adjusted operating income.
	Other items reflected as adjustments to Realized investment gains (losses), net
	The following table sets forth certain other items excluded from adjusted operating income and reflected as an adjustment to “Realized investment gains (losses), net” for purposes of calculating adjusted operating income:
				Years Ended December 31,
				2014			2013		2012
	Net gains (losses) from:			(in millions)
		Other trading account assets		$	-21		$	168	$	102
		Foreign currency exchange movements		$	-3,023		$	-4,060	$	-1,750
		Other activities		$	13		$	167	$	29
	Other Trading Account Assets. The Company has certain investments in its general account portfolios that are classified as trading. These trading investments are carried at fair value and included in “Other trading account assets, at fair value” on the Company's statements of financial position. Realized and unrealized gains and losses for these investments are recorded in “Asset management fees and oOther income.” Consistent with the exclusion of realized investment gains and losses with respect to other investments managed on a consistent basis, the net gains or losses on these investments are excluded from adjusted operating income.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Movements. The Company has certain assets and liabilities for which, under U.S. GAAP, the changes in value, including those associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates during the period, are recorded in “Asset management fees and oOther income.” To the extent the foreign currency exposure on these assets and liabilities is economically hedged or considered part of the Company's capital funding strategies for its international subsidiaries, the change in value included in “Asset management fees and oOther income” is excluded from adjusted operating income. The amounts in the table above are largely driven by non-yen denominated insurance liabilities in the Company's Japanese insurance operations. The insurance liabilities are supported by investments denominated in corresponding currencies, including a significant portion designated as available-for-sale. While these non-yen denominated assets and liabilities are economically hedged, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, including those arising from foreign currency exchange rate movements, are recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” under U.S. GAAP, while the non-yen denominated liabilities are re-measured for foreign currency exchange rate movements, and the related change in value is recorded in earnings within “Asset management fees and oOther income.” Due to this non-economic volatility that is reflected in U.S. GAAP earnings, the change in value recorded within “Asset management fee and oOther income” is excluded from adjusted operating income.
	Other Activities. The Company excludes certain other items from adjusted operating income that are consistent with similar adjustments described above. The significant items within other activities shown in the table above included the following:
	In connection with the settlement of disputes arising out of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition filed by Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc., the Company previously recorded losses related to a portion of its counterparty exposure on derivative transactions it had previously held with Lehman Brothers and its affiliates. The Company recorded estimated recoveries related to this matter of $12 million in 2011 related to a portion of its counterparty exposure on derivative transactions it had previously held with Lehman Brothers and its affiliates. For the years ended 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded $19 million, $146 million and $12 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively., in estimated recoveries of this settlement. These losses and recoveries are recorded within “Asset management fees and oOther income” within the Company's Corporate and Other operations. Consistent with the exclusion of credit-related losses recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net”, the impact of this estimated recovery is excluded from adjusted operating income.
	The Company records valuation adjustments for non-performance risk that relates to the uncollateralized portion of certain derivative contracts between a subsidiary of the Company and third parties and liquidity risk associated with certain derivatives. These adjustments are recorded within “Asset management fees and oOther income.” Consistent with the exclusion of the mark-to-market on derivatives recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net”, the impact of these non-performance risks is excluded from adjusted operating income. The net impact of these non-performance risks was to exclude from adjusted operating income net gainslosses of $1 million, net gainsgains of $30 million and net lossesgains of $36 million for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Related charges
	Charges that relate to realized investment gains and losses are also excluded from adjusted operating income, and include the following:
	The portion of the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, unearned revenue reserves and deferred sales inducements for certain products that is related to net realized investment gains and losses.
	Policyholder dividends and interest credited to policyholders' account balances that relate to certain life policies that pass back certain realized investment gains and losses to the policyholder, and reserves for future policy benefits for certain policies that are affected by net realized investment gains and losses.
	Market value adjustments paid or received upon a contractholder's surrender of certain of the Company's annuity products as these amounts mitigate the net realized investment gains or losses incurred upon the disposition of the underlying invested assets.
	Investment gains and losses on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and changes in experience-rated contractholder liabilities due to asset value changes
	Certain products included in the Retirement and International Insurance segments are experience-rated in that investment results associated with these products are expected to ultimately accrue to contractholders. The majority of investments supporting these experience-rated products are classified as trading and are carried at fair value, with realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in “Other income.” To a lesser extent, these experience-rated products are also supported by derivatives and commercial mortgage and other loans. The derivatives are carried at fair value, with realized and unrealized gains and losses reported in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” The commercial mortgage and other loans are carried at unpaid principal, net of unamortized discounts and an allowance for losses, with gains and losses on sales and changes in the valuation allowance for commercial mortgage and other loans reported in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.”
	Adjusted operating income excludes net investment gains and losses on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, which is consistent with the exclusion of realized investment gains and losses with respect to other investments supporting insurance liabilities managed on a consistent basis. In addition, to be consistent with the historical treatment of charges related to realized investment gains and losses on investments, adjusted operating income also excludes the change in contractholder liabilities due to asset value changes in the pool of investments (including changes in the fair value of commercial mortgage and other loans) supporting these experience-rated contracts, which are reflected in “Interest credited to policyholders' account balances.” These adjustments are in addition to the exclusion from adjusted operating income of net investment gains and losses on the related derivatives and commercial mortgage and other loans through “Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments,” as discussed above. The result of this approach is that adjusted operating income for these products includes net fee revenue and interest spread the Company earns on these experience-rated contracts, and excludes changes in fair value of the pool of investments, both realized and unrealized, that are expected to ultimately accrue to the contractholders.
	Divested businesses
	The contribution to income (loss) of divested businesses that have been or will be sold or exited, including businesses that have been placed in wind down, but that did not qualify for “discontinued operations” accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP, are excluded from adjusted operating income as the results of divested businesses are not considered relevant to understanding the Company's ongoing operating results.
	As discussed above, for reporting periods commencing after December 31, 2014, the Closed Block division will be accounted for as a divested business because it consists primarily of participating insurance and annuity products that the Company ceased selling at demutualization in 2001.
	Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures and earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
	Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures, on a pre-tax basis, are included in adjusted operating income as these results are a principal source of earnings. These earnings are reflected on a U.S. GAAP basis on an after-tax basis as a separate line on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests are excluded from adjusted operating income. Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests represents the portion of earnings from consolidated entities that relates to the equity interests of minority investors, and are reflected on a U.S. GAAP basis as a separate line on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	The summary below reconciles adjusted operating income before income taxes for the Financial Services Businesses to income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures:
							Years Ended December 31,
							2014		2013		2012
						(in millions)
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes by Segment:
	Individual Annuities					$	1,467	$	2,085	$	1,039
	Retirement						1,215		1,039		638
	Asset Management						785		723		584
				Total U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division			3,467		3,847		2,261
	Individual Life						498		583		384
	Group Insurance						23		157		16
				Total U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division			521		740		400
	International Insurance						3,252		3,152		2,704
				Total International Insurance Division			3,252		3,152		2,704
	Corporate Operations						-1,348		-1,370		-1,338
				Total Corporate and Other			-1,348		-1,370		-1,338
	Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes						5,892		6,369		4,027
		Reconciling items:
		Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related adjustments					-3,588		-9,956		-3,666
		Charges related to realized investment gains (losses), net					-542		1,807		857
		Investment gains (losses) on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, net					339		-250		610
		Change in experience-rated contractholder liabilities due to asset value changes					-294		227		-540
		Divested businesses					167		29		-615
		Closed Block Segment					-259		62		64
		Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures and earnings attributable to noncontrolling
			interests				44		28		-29
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of
	operating joint ventures					$	1,759	$	-1,684	$	708
The Individual Annuities segmentU.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division and U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division results reflect deferred policy acquisition costs as if the individual annuity business and group insurance business were is a stand-alone operations. The elimination of intersegment costs capitalized in accordance with this policy is included in consolidating adjustments within Corporate and Other operations.
The summary below presents certain financial information for the Company's reportable segments
					Total Assets
					As of December 31,
						2014			2013
					(in millions)
Financial Services Businesses:
	Individual Annuities					$	174,951	$	160,778
	Retirement						179,674		170,762
	Asset Management						50,214		45,040
		Total U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division					404,839		376,580
	Individual Life						70,152		64,990
	Group Insurance						41,125		39,185
		Total U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division					111,277		104,175
	International Insurance						171,635		168,677
		Total International Insurance Division					171,635		168,677
	Corporate Operations						8,013		13,947
		Total Corporate and Other					8,013		13,947
			Total Financial Services Businesses				695,764		663,379
Closed Block Business							70,891		68,402
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	766,655	$	731,781
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
						Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
						(in millions)
Financial Services Businesses:
	Individual Annuities					$	4,710	$	630	$	481	$	429	$	0	$	107	$	543
	Retirement						12,077		4,209		8,336		1,476		0		25		31
	Asset Management						2,840		120		0		0		0		10		20
		Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
			and Investment Management Division				19,627		4,959		8,817		1,905		0		142		594
	Individual Life						5,226		1,620		2,108		606		32		533		345
	Group Insurance						5,357		613		4,215		248		0		9		8
		Total U.S. Individual Life and
			Group Insurance Division				10,583		2,233		6,323		854		32		542		353
	International Insurance						20,066		4,434		12,234		961		50		4		961
		Total International Insurance Division					20,066		4,434		12,234		961		50		4		961
	Corporate Operations						-632		420		83		0		0		620		-55
		Total Corporate and Other					-632		420		83		0		0		620		-55
			Total				49,644		12,046		27,457		3,720		82		1,308		1,853
Reconciling items:
	Realized investment gains (losses),
		net, and related adjustments					-3,588		-5		0		0		0		0		0
	Charges related to realized
		investment gains (losses), net					55		0		295		111		-1		0		83
	Investment gains (losses) on trading
		account assets supporting
		insurance liabilities, net					339		0		0		0		0		0		0
	Change in experience-rated
		contractholder liabilities due
		to assets value changes					0		0		0		294		0		0		0
	Divested businesses						762		208		509		2		0		3		0
	Equity in earnings of operating joint
		ventures and earnings attributable
		to noncontrolling interests					-13		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Total Financial Services Businesses					47,199		12,249		28,261		4,127		81		1,311		1,936
Closed Block Business							6,906		3,007		3,326		136		2,635		597		37
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	54,105	$	15,256	$	31,587	$	4,263	$	2,716	$	1,908	$	1,973
						Year Ended December 31, 2013
						Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
						(in millions)
Financial Services Businesses:
	Individual Annuities					$	4,465	$	693	$	77	$	381	$	0	$	91	$	257
	Retirement						6,028		4,067		2,461		1,529		0		26		15
	Asset Management						2,678		87		0		0		0		11		25
		Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
			and Investment Management Division				13,171		4,847		2,538		1,910		0		128		297
	Individual Life						4,620		1,406		1,869		576		33		407		111
	Group Insurance						5,518		585		4,299		232		0		7		10
		Total U.S. Individual Life and
			Group Insurance Division				10,138		1,991		6,168		808		33		414		121
	International Insurance						22,540		4,306		14,499		984		107		3		1,011
		Total International Insurance Division					22,540		4,306		14,499		984		107		3		1,011
	Corporate Operations						-568		386		-35		0		0		715		-35
		Total Corporate and Other					-568		386		-35		0		0		715		-35
			Total				45,281		11,530		23,170		3,702		140		1,260		1,394
Reconciling items:
	Realized investment gains (losses),
		net, and related adjustments					-9,960		-13		0		0		0		0		0
	Charges related to realized
		investment gains (losses), net					-199		0		-225		-500		0		0		-1,191
	Investment gains (losses) on trading
		account assets supporting
		insurance liabilities, net					-250		0		0		0		0		0		0
	Change in experience-rated
		contractholder liabilities due
		to assets value changes					0		0		0		-227		0		0		0
	Divested businesses						631		196		454		0		0		1		0
	Equity in earnings of operating joint
		ventures and earnings attributable
		to noncontrolling interests					-78		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Total Financial Services Businesses					35,425		11,713		23,399		2,975		140		1,261		203
Closed Block Business							6,036		3,016		3,334		136		1,910		148		37
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	41,461	$	14,729	$	26,733	$	3,111	$	2,050	$	1,409	$	240
						Year Ended December 31, 2012
						Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
						(in millions)
Financial Services Businesses:
	Individual Annuities					$	3,983	$	770	$	573	$	452	$	0	$	109	$	338
	Retirement(1)						36,595		3,203		33,317		1,695		0		20		49
	Asset Management						2,376		107		0		0		0		15		24
		Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
			and Investment Management Division				42,954		4,080		33,890		2,147		0		144		411
	Individual Life						3,367		1,033		1,210		329		31		316		419
	Group Insurance						5,601		586		4,528		228		0		7		5
		Total U.S. Individual Life and
			Group Insurance Division				8,968		1,619		5,738		557		31		323		424
	International Insurance						29,586		4,268		20,981		1,122		124		3		1,173
		Total International Insurance Division					29,586		4,268		20,981		1,122		124		3		1,173
	Corporate Operations						-405		403		136		-22		0		773		-42
		Total Corporate and Other					-405		403		136		-22		0		773		-42
			Total				81,103		10,370		60,745		3,804		155		1,243		1,966
Reconciling items:
	Realized investment gains (losses),
		net, and related adjustments					-3,671		-24		0		0		0		0		0
	Charges related to realized
		investment gains (losses), net					-108		0		-2		-247		0		0		-716
	Investment gains (losses) on trading
		account assets supporting
		insurance liabilities, net					610		0		0		0		0		0		0
	Change in experience-rated
		contractholder liabilities due
		to assets value changes					0		0		0		540		0		0		0
	Divested businesses						735		162		943		0		0		0		216
	Equity in earnings of operating joint
		ventures and earnings attributable
		to noncontrolling interests					-79		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Total Financial Services Businesses					78,590		10,508		61,686		4,097		155		1,243		1,466
Closed Block Business							6,257		3,153		3,445		137		2,021		148		38
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	84,847	$	13,661	$	65,131	$	4,234	$	2,176	$	1,391	$	1,504
In 2012, the Company completed significant non-participating group annuity pension risk transfer transactions with two unaffiliated pension plan sponsors. The premiums from these transactions contributed approximately $31.8 billion to revenue in the Retirement segment. These premiums were largely offset by a corresponding increase in policyholders' benefits.
Revenues, calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the years ended December 31, include the following associated with the Company's foreign and domestic operations:
			2014			2013		2012
				(in millions)
Domestic operations			$	35,793		$	22,222	$	56,684
Foreign operations, total			$	18,312		$	19,239	$	28,163
Foreign operations, Japan			$	15,461		$	16,523	$	26,393
Foreign operations, Korea			$	1,484		$	1,437	$	1,294
The Asset Management segment revenues include intersegment revenues, primarily consisting of asset-based management and administration fees, for the years ended December 31, as follows:
			2014			2013		2012
				(in millions)
Asset Management segment intersegment revenues			$	645		$	611	$	545
Management has determined the intersegment revenues with reference to market rates. Intersegment revenues are eliminated in consolidation in Corporate and Other.

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments And Guarantees And Contingent Liabilities [Abstract]
Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters	23.       COMMITMENTS AND GUARANTEES, CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND LITIGATION AND
	REGULATORY MATTERS
	Commitments and Guarantees
	The Company occupies leased office space in many locations under various long-term leases and has entered into numerous leases covering the long-term use of computers and other equipment. Rental expense, net of sub-lease income, incurred for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $225 million, $253 million and $287 million, respectively.
	The following table presents, at December 31, 2014, the Company's future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating and capital leases along with associated sub-lease income:
				Operating and Capital Leases(1)			Sub-lease Income
			(in millions)
	2015			$	123		$	-1
	2016				106			0
	2017				93			0
	2018				71			0
	2019				55			0
	2020 and thereafter				181			0
		Total		$	629		$	-1
	(1) Future minimum lease payments under capital leases were $28 million as of December 31, 2014.
	Occasionally, for business reasons, the Company may exit certain non-cancelable operating leases prior to their expiration. In these instances, the Company's policy is to accrue, at the time it ceases to use the property being leased, the future rental expense net of any expected sub-lease income, and to release this reserve over the remaining commitment period. Of the total non-cancelable operating and capital leases amounts listed above, $3 million has been accrued as of December 31, 2014. There were no accruals of sub-lease income as of December 31, 2014.
	Commercial Mortgage Loan Commitments
					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Total outstanding mortgage loan commitments				$	2,442		$	2,365
	Portion of commitment where prearrangement to sell to investor exists				$	958		$	587
	In connection with the Company's commercial mortgage operations, it originates commercial mortgage loans. Commitments for loans that will be held for sale are recognized as derivatives and recorded at fair value. In certain of these transactions, the Company pre-arranges that it will sell the loan to an investor, including to government sponsored entities as discussed below, after the Company funds the loan.
	Commitments to Purchase Investments (excluding Commercial Mortgage Loans)
						As of December 31,
						2014			2013
						(in millions)
	Expected to be funded from the general account and other operations outside the
			separate accounts (1)			$	4,883		$	5,461
	Expected to be funded from separate accounts					$	28		$	274
	(1) Includes a remaining commitment of $194 million and $256 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the Company's agreement to co-invest with the Fosun Group (Fosun) in a private equity fund, managed by Fosun, for the Chinese marketplace.
	The Company has other commitments to purchase or fund investments, some of which are contingent upon events or circumstances not under the Company's control, including those at the discretion of the Company's counterparties. The Company anticipates a portion of these commitments will ultimately be funded from its separate accounts.
	Indemnification of Securities Lending Transactions
					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Indemnification provided to mutual fund and separate account clients for securities lending				$	14,334		$	15,598
	Fair value of related collateral associated with above indemnifications				$	14,740		$	15,965
	Accrued liability associated with guarantee				$	0		$	0
	In the normal course of business, the Company may facilitate securities lending transactions on behalf of mutual funds and separate accounts for which the Company is the investment advisor and/or the asset manager. In certain of these arrangements, the Company has provided an indemnification to the mutual funds or separate accounts to hold them harmless against losses caused by counterparty (i.e., borrower) defaults associated with the securities lending activity facilitated by the Company. Collateral is provided by the counterparty to the mutual fund or separate account at the inception of the loan equal to or greater than 102% of the fair value of the loaned securities and the collateral is maintained daily at 102% or greater of the fair value of the loaned securities. The Company is only at risk if the counterparty to the securities lending transaction defaults and the value of the collateral held is less than the value of the securities loaned to such counterparty. The Company believes the possibility of any payments under these indemnities is remote.
	Credit Derivatives Written
	As discussed further in Note 21, the Company writes credit derivatives under which the Company is obligated to pay the counterparty the referenced amount of the contract and receive in return the defaulted security or similar security.
	Guarantees of Asset Values
					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Guaranteed value of third parties' assets		$	74,707		$	78,110
			Fair value of collateral supporting these assets		$	76,711		$	79,458
			Asset associated with guarantee, carried at fair value		$	6		$	8
	Certain contracts underwritten by the Retirement segment include guarantees related to financial assets owned by the guaranteed party. These contracts are accounted for as derivatives and carried at fair value. The collateral supporting these guarantees is not reflected on the Company's balance sheet.
	Guarantees of Credit Enhancements
					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Guarantees of credit enhancements of debt instruments associated with commercial real estate assets		$	5		$	156
			Fair value of properties and associated tax credits that secure the guarantee		$	8		$	220
			Accrued liability associated with guarantee		$	0		$	0
	The Company arranges for credit enhancements of certain debt instruments that provide financing primarily for affordable multi-family real estate assets, including certain tax-exempt bond financings. The credit enhancements provide assurances to the debt holders as to the timely payment of amounts due under the debt instruments. The remaining contractual maturities for these guarantees are up to fifteen years. The Company's obligations to reimburse required credit enhancement payments are secured by mortgages on the related real estate. The Company receives certain ongoing fees for providing these enhancement arrangements and anticipates the extinguishment of its obligation under these enhancements prior to maturity through the aggregation and transfer of its positions to a substitute enhancement provider.
	Indemnification of Serviced Mortgage Loans
					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Maximum exposure under indemnification agreements for mortgage loans serviced by the Company		$	1,248		$	1,173
			First-loss exposure portion of above		$	388		$	371
		Accrued liability associated with guarantees		$	16		$	17
As part of the commercial mortgage activities of the Company's Asset Management segment, the Company provides commercial mortgage origination, underwriting and servicing for certain government sponsored entities, such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Company has agreed to indemnify the government sponsored entities for a portion of the credit risk associated with certain of the mortgages it services through a delegated authority arrangement. Under these arrangements, the Company originates multi-family mortgages for sale to the government sponsored entities based on underwriting standards they specify, and makes payments to them for a specified percentage share of losses they incur on certain loans serviced by the Company. The Company's percentage share of losses incurred generally varies from 2% to 20% of the loan balance, and is typically based on a first-loss exposure for a stated percentage of the loan balance, plus a shared exposure with the government sponsored entity for any losses in excess of the stated first-loss percentage, subject to a contractually specified maximum percentage. The Company services $9,929 million of mortgages subject to these loss-sharing arrangements as of December 31, 2014, all of which are collateralized by first priority liens on the underlying multi-family residential properties. As of December 31, 2014, these mortgages had an average debt service coverage ratio of 2.04 times and an average loan-to-value ratio of 62%. The Company's total share of losses related to indemnifications that were settled was $1 million, $0 million, and $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Other Guarantees
				As of December 31,
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Other guarantees where amount can be determined				$	331		$	404
Accrued liability for other guarantees and indemnifications				$	5		$	7
The Company is also subject to other financial guarantees and indemnity arrangements. The Company has provided indemnities and guarantees related to acquisitions, dispositions, investments and other transactions that are triggered by, among other things, breaches of representations, warranties or covenants provided by the Company. These obligations are typically subject to various time limitations, defined by the contract or by operation of law, such as statutes of limitation. In some cases, the maximum potential obligation is subject to contractual limitations, while in other cases such limitations are not specified or applicable. Included above are $323 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 of yield maintenance guarantees related to certain investments the Company sold. The Company does not expect to make any payments on these guarantees and is not carrying any liabilities associated with these guarantees.
Since certain of these obligations are not subject to limitations, it is not possible to determine the maximum potential amount due under these guarantees. The accrued liabilities identified above do not include retained liabilities associated with sold businesses.
Insolvency Assessments
Most of the jurisdictions in which the Company is admitted to transact business require insurers doing business within the jurisdiction to participate in guarantee associations, which are organized to pay contractual benefits owed pursuant to insurance policies issued by impaired, insolvent or failed insurers. These associations levy assessments, up to prescribed limits, on all member insurers in a particular state on the basis of the proportionate share of the premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business in which the impaired, insolvent or failed insurer engaged. Some states permit member insurers to recover assessments paid through full or partial premium tax offsets. In addition, Japan has established the Japan Policyholders Protection Corporation as a contingency to protect policyholders against the insolvency of life insurance companies in Japan through assessments to companies licensed to provide life insurance.
Assets and liabilities held for insolvency assessments were as follows:
				As of December 31,
				2014			2013
				(in millions)
Other assets:
	Premium tax offset for future undiscounted assessments			$	92		$	78
	Premium tax offsets currently available for paid assessments				6			5
		Total		$	98		$	83
Other liabilities:
	Insolvency assessments			$	39		$	46
Contingent Liabilities
On an ongoing basis, the Company's internal supervisory and control functions review the quality of sales, marketing and other customer interface procedures and practices and may recommend modifications or enhancements. From time to time, this review process results in the discovery of product administration, servicing or other errors, including errors relating to the timing or amount of payments or contract values due to customers. In certain cases, if appropriate, the Company may offer customers remediation and may incur charges, including the cost of such remediation, administrative costs and regulatory fines.
The Company is subject to the laws and regulations of states and other jurisdictions concerning the identification, reporting and escheatment of unclaimed or abandoned funds, and is subject to audit and examination for compliance with these requirements. For additional discussion of these matters, see “Litigation and Regulatory Matters” below.
It is possible that the results of operations or the cash flow of the Company in a particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected as a result of payments in connection with the matters discussed above or other matters depending, in part, upon the results of operations or cash flow for such period. Management believes, however, that ultimate payments in connection with these matters, after consideration of applicable reserves and rights to indemnification, should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position.
Litigation and Regulatory Matters
The Company is subject to legal and regulatory actions in the ordinary course of its businesses. Pending legal and regulatory actions include proceedings relating to aspects of the Company's businesses and operations that are specific to it and proceedings that are typical of the businesses in which it operates, including in both cases businesses that have been either divested or placed in wind-down status. Some of these proceedings have been brought on behalf of various alleged classes of complainants. In certain of these matters, the plaintiffs are seeking large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive or exemplary damages. The outcome of litigation or a regulatory matter, and the amount or range of potential loss at any particular time, is often inherently uncertain.
The Company establishes accruals for litigation and regulatory matters when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of that loss can be reasonably estimated. For litigation and regulatory matters where a loss may be reasonably possible, but not probable, or is probable but not reasonably estimable, no accrual is established but the matter, if material, is disclosed, including matters discussed below. The Company estimates that as of December 31, 2014, the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of accruals established for those litigation and regulatory matters for which such an estimate currently can be made is not material (i.e., less than $250 million). Any estimate is not an indication of expected loss, if any, or the Company's maximum possible loss exposure on such matters. The Company reviews relevant information with respect to its litigation and regulatory matters on a quarterly and annual basis and updates its accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible loss based on such reviews.
Individual Annuities, Individual Life and Group Insurance
In January 2013, a qui tam action on behalf of the State of Florida, Total Asset Recovery Services v. Met Life Inc., et al., Manulife Financial Corporation, et. al., Prudential Financial, Inc., The Prudential Insurance Company of America, and Prudential Insurance Agency, LLC. filed in the Circuit Court of Leon County, Florida, was served on the Company. The complaint alleges that the Company failed to escheat life insurance proceeds to the State of Florida in violation of the Florida False Claims Act and seeks injunctive relief, compensatory damages, civil penalties, treble damages, prejudgment interest, attorneys' fees and costs. In March 2013, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint. In August 2013, the court dismissed the complaint with prejudice. In September 2013, plaintiff filed an appeal with Florida's Circuit Court of the Second Judicial Circuit in Leon County. In September 2014, the Florida District Court of Appeal First District affirmed the trial Court's decision.
In September 2012, the State of West Virginia, through its State Treasurer, filed a lawsuit, State of West Virginia ex. Rel. John D. Perdue v. Prudential Insurance Company of America, in the Circuit Court of Putnam County, West Virginia. The complaint alleges violations of the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Fund Act by failing to properly identify and report all unclaimed insurance policy proceeds which should either be paid to beneficiaries or escheated to West Virginia. The complaint seeks to examine the records of Prudential Insurance to determine compliance with the West Virginia Uniform Unclaimed Property Fund Act, and to assess penalties and costs in an undetermined amount. In October 2012, the State of West Virginia commenced a second action, State of West Virginia ex. Rel. John D. Perdue v. Pruco Life Insurance Company making the same allegations stated in the action against Prudential Insurance. In April 2013, the Company filed motions to dismiss the complaints in both of the West Virginia actions. In December 2013, the Court granted the Company's motions and dismissed the complaints with prejudice. In January 2014, the State of West Virginia appealed the decisions.
In January 2012, a Global Resolution Agreement entered into by the Company and a third party auditor became effective upon its acceptance by the unclaimed property departments of 20 states and jurisdictions. Under the terms of the Global Resolution Agreement, the third party auditor acting on behalf of the signatory states will compare expanded matching criteria to the Social Security Master Death File (“SSMDF”) to identify deceased insureds and contractholders where a valid claim has not been made. In February 2012, a Regulatory Settlement Agreement entered into by the Company to resolve a multi-state market conduct examination regarding its adherence to state claim settlement practices became effective upon its acceptance by the insurance departments of 20 states and jurisdictions. The Regulatory Settlement Agreement applies prospectively and requires the Company to adopt and implement additional procedures comparing its records to the SSMDF to identify unclaimed death benefits and prescribes procedures for identifying and locating beneficiaries once deaths are identified. Substantially all other jurisdictions that are not signatories to the Global Resolution Agreement or the Regulatory Settlement Agreement have entered into similar agreements with the Company.
The New York Attorney General has subpoenaed the Company, along with other companies, regarding its unclaimed property procedures and may ultimately seek remediation and other relief, including damages. Additionally, the New York Office of Unclaimed Funds is conducting an audit of the Company's compliance with New York's unclaimed property laws.
From July 2010 to December 2010, four purported nationwide class actions were filed challenging the use of retained asset accounts to settle death benefit claims of beneficiaries of a group life insurance contract owned by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs that covers the lives of members and veterans of the U.S. armed forces. In 2011, the cases were consolidated in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts by the Judicial Panel for Multi-District Litigation as In re Prudential Insurance Company of America SGLI/VGLI Contract Litigation. The consolidated complaint alleges that the use of the retained assets accounts that earn interest and are available to be withdrawn by the beneficiary, in whole or in part, at any time, to settle death benefit claims is in violation of federal law, and asserts claims of breach of contract, breaches of fiduciary duty and the duty of good faith and fair dealing, fraud and unjust enrichment and seeks compensatory and punitive damages, disgorgement of profits, equitable relief and pre and post-judgment interest. In March 2011, the motion to dismiss was denied. In January 2012, plaintiffs filed a motion to certify the class. In August 2012, the court denied plaintiffs' class certification motion without prejudice pending the filing of summary judgment motions on the issue of whether plaintiffs sustained an actual injury. In October 2012, the parties filed motions for summary judgment. In November 2013, the Court issued a Memorandum and Order stating that the named plaintiffs: (1) did not suffer a cognizable legal injury; (2) are not entitled to any damages based on allegations of delay in payment of benefits; and (3) are not entitled to disgorgement of profits as a remedy. The Court ordered further briefing on whether nominal damages should be awarded and whether any equitable relief should be granted. In February 2014, the parties filed briefs on the issues addressed in the Court's order. In August 2014, the Court granted preliminary approval of a proposed settlement of this matter as a class action settlement. In December 2014, the Court issued a final order approving the class action settlement and dismissed the consolidated complaint with prejudice. The settlement was within the amount reserved for this matter.
In September 2010, Huffman v. The Prudential Insurance Company, a purported nationwide class action brought on behalf of beneficiaries of group life insurance contracts owned by ERISA-governed employee welfare benefit plans was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, challenging the use of retained asset accounts in employee welfare benefit plans to settle death benefit claims as a violation of ERISA and seeking injunctive relief and disgorgement of profits. In July 2011, the Company's motion for judgment on the pleadings was denied. In February 2012, plaintiffs filed a motion to certify the class. In April 2012, the Court stayed the case pending the outcome of a case involving another insurer that is before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. In August 2014, the Court lifted the stay, and in September 2014, Plaintiffs filed a motion seeking leave to amend the complaint.
From November 2002 to March 2005, eleven separate complaints were filed against the Company and the law firm of Leeds Morelli & Brown in New Jersey state court and in the New Jersey Superior Court, Essex County as Lederman v. Prudential Financial, Inc., et al. The complaints allege that an alternative dispute resolution agreement entered into among Prudential Insurance, over 235 claimants who are current and former Prudential Insurance employees, and Leeds Morelli & Brown (the law firm representing the claimants) was illegal and that Prudential Insurance conspired with Leeds Morelli & Brown to commit fraud, malpractice, breach of contract, and violate racketeering laws by advancing legal fees to the law firm with the purpose of limiting Prudential's liability to the claimants. In February 2010, the New Jersey Supreme Court assigned the cases for centralized case management to the Superior Court, Bergen County. The Company participated in a court-ordered mediation that resulted in a settlement involving 193 of the remaining 235 plaintiffs. The amounts paid to the 193 plaintiffs were within existing reserves for this matter. In December 2013, the Company participated in court-ordered mediation that resulted in a December 2013 settlement involving 40 of the remaining 42 plaintiffs with litigation against the Company, including plaintiffs who had not yet appealed the dismissal of their claims. The amounts paid to the 40 plaintiffs were within existing reserves for this matter. In July 2014, the Court granted the Company's summary judgment motion dismissing with prejudice the complaint of one of the two remaining plaintiffs asserting claims against the Company. In August 2014, an appeal was filed from the Court's summary judgment decision. In January 2015, the New Jersey Appellate Division dismissed the appeal without prejudice.
Other Matters
In September 2014, Lehman Brothers Special Financing Inc. (“LBSF”) through Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. (“LBHI”), the Plan Administrator under the Modified Third Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of LBHI and its affiliated debtors, filed a Third Amended Complaint in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York against certain indenture trustees, certain special purpose entities, and a putative class of 158 noteholders, including Gibraltar Life Insurance Company, Ltd. (f/k/a AIG Edison – GA Non Dima), in its adversary proceeding to recover funds alleged to have been paid improperly to the noteholders.
In October 2012, a shareholder derivative lawsuit, Stephen Silverman, Derivatively on Behalf of Prudential Financial, Inc. v. John R. Strangfeld, et. al., was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, alleging breaches of fiduciary duties, waste of corporate assets and unjust enrichment by certain senior officers and directors. The complaint names as defendants the Company's Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Principal Accounting Officer, certain members of the Company's Board of Directors and a former Director. The complaint alleges that the defendants made false and misleading statements regarding the Company's current and future financial condition based on, among other things, the alleged failure to disclose: (i) potential liability for benefits that should either have been paid to policyholders or their beneficiaries, or escheated to applicable states; and (ii) the extent of the Company's exposure for alleged state and federal law violations concerning the settlement of claims and the escheatment of unclaimed property. The complaint seeks an undetermined amount of damages, attorneys' fees and costs, and equitable relief including a direction for the Company to reform and to improve its corporate governance and internal procedures to comply with applicable laws.
In October 2012, the Board of Directors received a shareholder demand letter (the “Demand”), containing allegations of wrongdoing similar to those alleged in the Silverman complaint. The Demand alleges that the Company's Senior Management: (i) breached their fiduciary duties of loyalty and good faith in connection with the management, operation and oversight of the Company's business; (ii) breached their fiduciary duty of good faith to establish and maintain adequate internal controls; and (iii) breached their fiduciary duties by disseminating false, misleading and/or incomplete information, all in connection with the Company's alleged failure to use the SSDMF and to pay beneficiaries and escheat funds to states. The Demand requests that the Board of Directors: (a) undertake an independent internal investigation into Senior Management's violations of New Jersey and/or federal law; and (b) commence a civil action against each member of Senior Management to recover for the benefit of the Company the amount of damages sustained by the Company as a result of the alleged breaches described above. In response to the Demand, the Board of Directors formed a Special Litigation Committee that has retained an outside law firm to investigate the Demand's allegations. In September 2013, before the conclusion of the Special Litigation Committee's investigation, the shareholder who submitted the Demand filed a shareholder derivative lawsuit, Paul Memo, Derivatively on Behalf of Prudential Financial, Inc. v. John R. Strangfeld, Jr. et. al., in New Jersey Superior Court, Essex County. The complaint (the “Memo complaint”) names as defendants the Company's Chief Executive Officer, the Vice Chairman, a former Chief Financial Officer, the Principal Accounting Officer, certain members of the Company's Board of Directors and a former Director. The complaint repeats the allegations in the Demand and seeks an undetermined amount of damages, attorneys' fees and costs, and equitable relief including a direction for the Company to reform and to improve its corporate governance and internal procedures to comply with applicable laws. In March 2014, the Special Litigation Committee completed its investigation into the Demand's allegations and concluded that it is neither appropriate nor in the best interests of the Company's shareholders to pursue any litigation arising from allegations contained in the Demand or in the Memo complaint, and that the Company should seek dismissal of the Memo complaint. In July 2014, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the complaint.
In August 2012, a purported class action lawsuit, City of Sterling Heights General Employees' Retirement System v. Prudential Financial, Inc., et al., was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, alleging violations of federal securities law. The complaint names as defendants the Company's Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Principal Accounting Officer and certain members of the Company's Board of Directors. The complaint alleges that knowingly false and misleading statements were made regarding the Company's current and future financial condition based on, among other things, the alleged failure to disclose: (i) potential liability for benefits that should either have been paid to policyholders or their beneficiaries, or escheated to applicable states; and (ii) the extent of the Company's exposure for alleged state and federal law violations concerning the settlement of claims and the escheatment of unclaimed property. The complaint seeks an undetermined amount of damages, interest, attorneys' fees and costs. In May 2013, the complaint was amended to add three additional putative institutional investors as lead plaintiffs: National Shopmen Pension Fund, The Heavy & General Laborers' Locals 472 & 172 Pension & Annuity Funds, and Roofers Local No. 149 Pension Fund. In June 2013, the Company moved to dismiss the amended complaint. In February 2014, the Court denied the Company's motion to dismiss. In July 2014, plaintiffs' filed a motion to certify a class comprised of investors who purchased shares of the Company's Common Stock between May 5, 2010 and November 4, 2011. That motion was subsequently withdrawn and refiled in December 2014.
In October 2006, a purported class action lawsuit, Bouder v. Prudential Financial, Inc. and Prudential Insurance Company of America, was filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, claiming that Prudential failed to pay overtime to insurance agents in violation of federal and Pennsylvania law, and that improper deductions were made from these agents' wages in violation of state law. The complaint sought back overtime pay and statutory damages, recovery of improper deductions, interest, and attorneys' fees. In March 2008, the court conditionally certified a nationwide class on the federal overtime claim. Separately, in March 2008, a purported nationwide class action lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California, Wang v. Prudential Financial, Inc. and Prudential Insurance, claiming that the Company failed to pay its agents overtime and provide other benefits in violation of California and federal law and seeking compensatory and punitive damages in unspecified amounts. In September 2008, Wang was transferred to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey and consolidated with the Bouder matter. Subsequent amendments to the complaint resulted in additional allegations involving purported violations of an additional nine states' overtime and wage payment laws. In February 2010, Prudential moved to decertify the federal overtime class that had been conditionally certified in March 2008 and moved for summary judgment on the federal overtime claims of the named plaintiffs. In July 2010, plaintiffs filed a motion for class certification of the state law claims. In August 2010, the district court granted Prudential's motion for summary judgment, dismissing the federal overtime claims. In January 2013, the Court denied plaintiffs' motion for class certification in its entirety. In July 2013, the Court granted plaintiffs' motion for reconsideration, permitting plaintiffs to file a motion to certify a class of employee insurance agents seeking recovery under state wage and hour laws. In September 2013, plaintiffs filed a renewed motion for class certification.
Since April 2012, the Company has filed ten actions seeking to recover damages attributable to investments in residential mortgage-backed securities ("RMBS"). Eight actions were filed in New Jersey state court, captioned The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. JP Morgan Chase, et al.; The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. Morgan Stanley, et al.; The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. Nomura Securities International, Inc., et al.; The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. Barclays Bank PLC, et al.; The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. Goldman Sachs & Company, et al.;The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. RBS Financial Products, Inc., et al.; The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. Countrywide Financial Corp., et al.; and The Prudential Insurance Company of America, et al. v. UBS Securities LLC., et al. Additionally, two actions were filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey: The Prudential Insurance Company of America v. Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, et al. and The Prudential Insurance Company of America v. Bank of America National Association and Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc., et al. Among other allegations stemming from the defendants' origination, underwriting and sales of RMBS, the complaints assert claims of common-law fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breaches of the New Jersey Civil RICO statute, and, in some lawsuits, federal securities claims. The complaints seek unspecified damages.
Seven of the defendants (J.P. Morgan, Barclays, Nomura, RBS, Goldman Sachs, Countrywide, and UBS) removed the lawsuits from New Jersey state court to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. The Countrywide defendants also made an application to the Judicial Panel on Multi-District Litigation to transfer that case to the United States District Court for the Central District of California. In August 2013, that application was granted. Except for the Nomura and Goldman Sachs actions, the Company filed motions to remand the lawsuits to New Jersey state court. The J.P. Morgan, Barclays, RBS and UBS lawsuits were subsequently remanded to New Jersey state court.
Each of the Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Nomura, Credit Suisse, Barclays, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, J.P. Morgan, RBS, UBS and Countrywide defendants filed motions to dismiss the complaints against them. The motions to dismiss filed in Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, Credit Suisse, and Nomura have been denied in their entirety. In March 2014, the motion to dismiss filed by Countrywide was granted in part by the federal court in California, dismissing the federal securities, successor-liability, fraudulent transfer, and New Jersey RICO claims, and the court, sua sponte, remanded the remaining claims to New Jersey state court for further consideration. In April 2014, the Company filed an appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, challenging the court's March 2014 order granting, in part, Countrywide's motion to dismiss. In June 2014, Countrywide filed a motion to dismiss the remaining claims pending against it in New Jersey state court. In January 2015, the Countrywide and RBS motions were denied except as to certain non-New Jersey domiciled plaintiffs whose claims were found to be untimely.
In April 2014, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch's motion to dismiss was granted in part and denied in part, with the court upholding the common-law claim on the theory of underwriting abandonment, the equitable fraud claim, and the 1933 Securities Act claims (except as to one offering). The court dismissed with prejudice the negligent representation claim; dismissed without prejudice the New Jersey Civil RICO claim, aiding and abetting claim, and certain aspects of the common-law fraud claim; and permitted the Company 45 days to file an amended complaint. In June 2014, the Company filed an amended complaint against Bank of America/Merrill Lynch in New Jersey federal court and filed a second complaint against the same defendants in July 2014. In July 2014, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch filed motions to dismiss. In February 2015, the court granted Bank of America/Merrill Lynch's motions in part, sustaining the Company's common-law claim on the theory of underwriting abandonment, the 1933 Securities Act claims, and the equitable fraud claim. The court dismissed with prejudice certain aspects of the common-law fraud claim, as well as the aiding and abetting, New Jersey Civil RICO, and negligent misrepresentation claims. The court dismissed the common-law fraud claim with respect to securities where Bank of America/Merrill Lynch was the only underwriter, but granted the Company 45 days to file an amended complaint on that claim.
The following lawsuits have settled: Goldman Sachs, December 2013; J.P. Morgan, July 2014; Credit Suisse, August 2014; UBS, November 2014, and Barclays, December 2014. The Bank of America/Merrill Lynch and Nomura cases are currently pending in New Jersey federal court, and the Countrywide, Morgan Stanley, and RBS cases are pending in New Jersey state court.
In June 2014, the Company, together with nine other institutional investors, filed six actions against certain RMBS trustees. The actions were filed in New York state court, captioned BlackRock Allocation Target Shares: Series S Portfolio, et al. v. U.S. Bank Nat'l Ass'n, et al.; BlackRock Balanced Capital Portfolio (FI), et al. v. Deutsche Bank Nat'l Trust Co., et al.; BlackRock Allocation Target Shares: Series S Portfolio, et al. v. The Bank of New York Mellon, et al.; BlackRock Allocation Target Shares: Series S Portfolio, et al. v. Wells Fargo, Nat'l Ass'n, et al.; BlackRock Balanced Capital Portfolio (FI), et al. v. Citibank N.A., et al.; and BlackRock Core Active LIBOR Fund B, et al. v. HSBC Bank USA, Nat'l Ass'n, et al. The actions, which are brought derivatively on behalf of more than 2,200 RMBS trusts, seek unspecified damages attributable to the trustees' alleged failure to: (i) enforce the trusts' respective repurchase rights against sellers of defective mortgage loans; and (ii) properly monitor the respective mortgage loan servicers. The complaints assert claims for breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence and violations of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939. In July 2014, the Company amended its complaint against each of the six defendants. In November 2014, the Company filed amended complaints against each of the trustee bank defendants in federal court in the Southern District of New York.  In December 2014, the New York State court actions were dismissed without prejudice upon the Company's request.
In May 2014, Prudential Investment Portfolios 2, on behalf of the Prudential Core Short-Term Bond Fund and the Prudential Core Taxable Money Market Fund (the “Funds”), filed an action against ten banks in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey asserting that the banks participated in the setting of LIBOR, a major benchmark interest rate. The action is captioned Prudential Investment Portfolios 2, f/k/a Dryden Core Investment Fund, o/b/o Prudential Core Short-Term Bond Fund and Prudential Core Taxable Money Market Fund v. Bank of America Corporation et al. The Complaint alleges that the defendant banks manipulated LIBOR, and asserts, among other things, claims for common-law fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of contract, intentional interference with contract and with prospective economic relations, unjust enrichment, breaches of the New Jersey Civil RICO statute, and violations of the Sherman Act. In June 2014, the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation transferred the action to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, where it has been consolidated for pre-trial purposes with other pending LIBOR-related actions. In October 2014, the Funds filed an amended complaint. In November 2014, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint.
Summary
The Company's litigation and regulatory matters are subject to many uncertainties, and given their complexity and scope, their outcome cannot be predicted. It is possible that the Company's results of operations or cash flow in a particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by an ultimate unfavorable resolution of pending litigation and regulatory matters depending, in part, upon the results of operations or cash flow for such period. In light of the unpredictability of the Company's litigation and regulatory matters, it is also possible that in certain cases an ultimate unfavorable resolution of one or more pending litigation or regulatory matters could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position. Management believes, however, that, based on information currently known to it, the ultimate outcome of all pending litigation and regulatory matters, after consideration of applicable reserves and rights to indemnification, is not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Event Details [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	25.    SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	Class B Stock Repurchase
	On January 2, 2015, pursuant to a Share Repurchase Agreement, Prudential Financial repurchased from National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, P.A., Lexington Insurance Company and Pacific Life Corp, the holders of 100% of the outstanding shares of the Class B Stock (the “Class B Holders”), 2.0 million shares of the Class B Stock, representing all of the outstanding shares of the Class B stock, for an aggregate cash purchase price of $650.8 million (the “Class B Repurchase”). The Class B Repurchase was recorded on December 1, 2014, the effective date of the Share Repurchase Agreement, within the Closed Block Business and resulted in a reduction to “Total Prudential Financial, Inc. equity” in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of December 31, 2014. The purchase price was determined by an independent appraiser under the methodology set forth in Prudential Financial's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Pursuant to the Share Repurchase Agreement, holders of a majority of the Class B Stock may dispute the purchase price prior to April 6, 2015, and any dispute may be resolved through arbitration. Accordingly, the final purchase price of the Class B Stock may change in the event of a dispute. On January 2, 2015, the 2.0 million shares of Class B stock were cancelled, resulting in the elimination of the Class B Stock held in treasury, a $483.8 million decrease in “Retained earnings” and a $167.0 million decrease in “Additional paid-in capital.”
	Prudential Financial funded the Class B Repurchase from the sale of a portion of the Surplus and Related Assets, and funds available within PHLLC.
	Elimination of the Separation of the Businesses
	As a result of the Class B Repurchase, the Company's future earnings per share of Common Stock will reflect the consolidated earnings of Prudential Financial. The close of the Class B Repurchase also resulted in the elimination of the distinction between the Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business, effective January 2, 2015. Following the close of the Class B Repurchase, the results of the Closed Block, along with certain related assets and liabilities, will be reported as a separate segment, referred to as the “Closed Block Division” and treated as a “divested business” under Prudential Financial's definition of adjusted operating income. The results of divested businesses are included in net income and income from continuing operations determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, but are excluded from adjusted operating income. See Note 22 for additional information about the Company's definition of adjusted operating income.
	Reinsurance Transaction
	On January 1, 2015, Prudential Insurance recaptured its reinsurance arrangements with both third party reinsurers and affiliates that effectively reinsured 90% of the risks associated with the Closed Block Business (the “Existing Reinsurance Arrangements”). Immediately following the recapture of the Existing Reinsurance Arrangements, Prudential Insurance entered into a reinsurance agreement with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Prudential Legacy Insurance Company of New Jersey (“PLIC”), pursuant to which Prudential Insurance reinsured substantially all of the outstanding liabilities of the Closed Block into a statutory guaranteed separate account of PLIC (the “Reinsurance Agreement”) primarily on a coinsurance basis. Pursuant to the Reinsurance Agreement, approximately $57 billion of Closed Block assets were transferred to PLIC. Consistent with the participating nature of the Closed Block policies and contracts, experience of the Closed Block is ultimately passed along to policyholders over time through adjustments of the annual policyholder dividend scale. Also, effective as of January 2, 2015, the Company terminated the $2 billion letter of credit facility that previously supported a portion of these recaptured reinsurance arrangements.
	The insurance policies and annuity contracts comprising the Closed Block continue to be managed in accordance with the Plan of Reorganization approved by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance on December 18, 2001. Prudential Insurance remains directly obligated for the insurance policies and annuity contracts in the Closed Block. These transactions do not change the Closed Block Assets allocated to support the Closed Block's liabilities, policyholder dividend scales or the methodology for determining policyholder dividends. Accordingly, the transactions have no impact on the guaranteed benefits, premiums or dividends for Closed Block policyholders.
	Inter-Business Transfer and Allocation Policies
	In connection with the Class B Repurchase and the resulting elimination of the distinction between the Company's Financial Services Businesses and the Closed Block Business, on January 2, 2015, the Company terminated the inter-business transfer and allocation policies relating to payments, loans, capital contributions, transfers of assets and other transactions between the Closed Block Business and the Financial Services Businesses, and the allocation between the two businesses of tax costs and benefits.
	Financing Facility
	On February 18, 2015, PLIC entered into a twenty-year financing facility with certain unaffiliated financial institutions and Essex, LLC, a special purpose company affiliate (“LLC”), pursuant to which PLIC may, at its option and subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, issue and sell to LLC up to $4 billion in aggregate principal amount of surplus notes, in return for an equal principal amount of credit linked notes issued by LLC. Upon issuance, PLIC would hold any credit linked notes as assets to finance future statutory surplus needs within PLIC.
	PLIC can redeem any issued credit linked notes in cash upon the occurrence of, and in an amount necessary to remedy, a liquidity stress event affecting PLIC (a “Cash Redemption Payment”). The unaffiliated financial institutions have agreed to fund any Cash Redemption Payment up to a specified commitment amount, in return for the receipt of fees. Any issued surplus notes are redeemable prior to maturity, subject to certain prepayment penalties.
	Principal payments on any issued surplus notes and credit linked notes (other than a Cash Redemption Payment) will be settled on a net basis and, accordingly, any issued surplus notes and credit linked notes will be reflected in the Company's total consolidated borrowings on a net basis.
	Common Stock Dividend Declaration
	On February 10, 2015, Prudential Financial's Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.58 per share of Common Stock, payable on March 19, 2015.

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]	24.    QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
	The unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are summarized in the table below:
			Three Months Ended
			31-Mar		30-Jun		30-Sep		31-Dec
				(in millions, except per share amounts)
	2014
	Total revenues		$	12,854	$	13,146	$	12,380	$	15,725
	Total benefits and expenses			11,136		11,639		12,096		17,475
	Income (loss) from continuing operations			1,245		1,109		523		-1,451
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations			4		4		0		4
	Net income (loss)			1,249		1,113		523		-1,447
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests			11		23		11		12
	Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.			1,238		1,090		512		-1,459
	Basic earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.62	$	2.25	$	1	$	-2.7
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0.01		0.01		0		0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.63	$	2.26	$	1	$	-2.69
	Diluted earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.58	$	2.21	$	0.99	$	-2.7
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0.01		0.01		0		0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.59	$	2.22	$	0.99	$	-2.69
	Basic and diluted earnings per share - Class B Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	7.5	$	22	$	25	$	-180.77
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0		0.77
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	7.5	$	22	$	25	$	-180
	2013
	Total revenues		$	10,171	$	10,041	$	11,310	$	9,939
	Total benefits and expenses			11,730		10,810		9,784		10,821
	Income (loss) from continuing operations			-686		-489		1,032		-424
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations			1		2		8		-4
	Net income (loss)			-685		-487		1,040		-428
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests			35		27		13		32
	Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.			-720		-514		1,027		-460
	Basic earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.06	$	-0.93
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0.01		-0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.07	$	-0.94
	Diluted earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.02	$	-0.93
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0.02		-0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.04	$	-0.94
	Basic and diluted earnings per share - Class B Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	5.5	$	1	$	29.5	$	-14
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0		0
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	5.5	$	1	$	29.5	$	-14
	Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.
	Results for the third quarter of 2014 include total pre-tax out of period adjustments of $156 million which primarily consisted of: 1) a charge of $48 million from an increase in reserves for group long-term disability products and 2) a charge of $45 million from an increase in reserves, net of related amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, for certain variable annuities products with optional living benefit guarantees. These items were identified during the Company's annual review and update of assumptions used in calculating these reserves. In addition, during the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company identified and recorded out of period adjustments, of which, $63 million was for the reversal of an overstatement of reserves recorded in the third quarter related to certain variable annuities products with optional living benefit guarantees. Management has evaluated the impact of all out of period adjustments, both individually and in the aggregate, and concluded that they are not material to the current quarter or to any previously reported quarterly or annual financial statements.
	Results for the fourth quarter of 2013 include a pre-tax benefit of $116 million related to an out of period adjustment recorded by the Company due to an overstatement of reserves in the third quarter of 2013. The overstatement resulted from the use of incorrect data inputs to calculate the impact of the market's perception of our own non-performance risk on the reserves for certain annuities with guaranteed benefits. This item impacted only the third and fourth quarters of 2013 and had no impact to full year 2013 reported results.

Summary_of_Investments_Other_T

Summary of Investments Other Than investments in Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract]
Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule I
	Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
	As of December 31, 2014 (in millions)
									Amount
							Fair		shown in the
	Type of Investment					Cost(1)	Value		Balance Sheet
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale:
		Bonds:
			United States Government and government agencies and authorities		$	15,807	$	20,123	$	20,123
			States, municipalities and political subdivisions			5,720		6,531		6,531
			Foreign governments			69,894		80,941		80,941
			Asset-backed securities			10,966		11,185		11,185
			Residential mortgage-backed securities			5,612		6,057		6,057
			Commercial mortgage-backed securities			13,486		13,877		13,877
			Public utilities			19,754		22,403		22,403
			Certificates of deposit			106		105		105
			All other corporate bonds			123,361		137,410		137,410
		Redeemable preferred stock				410		458		458
				Total fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	265,116	$	299,090	$	299,090
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity:
		Bonds:
			Foreign governments		$	821	$	1,005	$	821
			Residential mortgage-backed securities			963		1,032		963
			Commercial mortgage-backed securities			78		85		78
		All other corporate bonds				713		780		713
				Total fixed maturities, held-to-maturity	$	2,575	$	2,902	$	2,575
	Equity securities:
		Common Stocks:
			Public utilities		$	151	$	194	$	194
			Banks, trust and insurance companies			1,232		1,971		1,971
			Industrial, miscellaneous and other			5,512		7,668		7,668
		Nonredeemable preferred stocks				26		28		28
				Total equity securities, available-for-sale	$	6,921	$	9,861	$	9,861
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities(2)(3)				$	20,263			$	20,263
	Other trading account assets(2)					10,874				10,874
	Commercial mortgage and other loans(4)					46,432				46,432
	Policy loans					11,712				11,712
	Short-term investments(5)					8,258				8,258
	Other long-term investments					10,921				10,921
				Total investments	$	383,072			$	419,986
	Original cost of equities reduced by impairment and, as to fixed maturities, original cost reduced by repayments and impairments and adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts.
	At fair value.
	See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the composition of the Company's “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.”
	At carrying value, net of allowance for losses. Includes commercial mortgage and other collateralized loans of $45,348 million and uncollateralized loans of $1,084 million.
	“Short-term investments” include securities purchased under agreements to resell.

Condensed_Financial_Informatio

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule II
	Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
	Condensed Statements of Financial Positions as of December 31, 2014 and 2013
	(in millions)
				2014			2013
	ASSETS
	Investment contracts from subsidiaries			$	1		$	1
	Other investments				2,395			1,197
		Total investments			2,396			1,198
	Cash and cash equivalents				8,692			4,370
	Due from subsidiaries				875			1,477
	Loans receivable from subsidiaries				8,475			8,750
	Investment in subsidiaries				50,218			40,662
	Other assets				365			889
		TOTAL ASSETS		$	71,021		$	57,346
	LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
	LIABILITIES
	Due to subsidiaries			$	7,414		$	1,734
	Loans payable to subsidiaries				2,033			1,799
	Short-term debt				2,319			1,721
	Long-term debt				16,061			16,346
	Income taxes payable				271			0
	Other liabilities				1,153			468
		Total liabilities			29,251			22,068
	EQUITY
	Preferred Stock ($.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued)				0			0
	Common Stock ($.01 par value; 1,500,000,000 shares authorized; 660,111,339 and 660,111,319
		shares issued at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively)			6			6
	Class B Stock ($0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; 2,000,000 shares issued at both
		December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013)			0			0
	Additional paid-in capital				24,565			24,475
	Common Stock held in treasury, at cost (205,277,862 and 199,056,067 shares at December 31,
		2014 and 2013, respectively)			-13,088			-12,415
	Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and
		December 31, 2013, respectively)			-651			0
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)				16,050			8,681
	Retained earnings				14,888			14,531
		Total equity			41,770			35,278
		TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY		$	71,021		$	57,346
	See Notes to Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
		Schedule II
		Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
		Condensed Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
		(in millions)
					2014			2013			2012
	REVENUES
	Net investment income				$	7		$	6		$	33
	Realized investment gains (losses), net					-793			390			-33
	Affiliated interest revenue					417			416			404
	Other income					146			153			-19
			Total revenues			-223			965			385
	EXPENSES
	General and administrative expenses					59			50			67
	Interest expense					1,075			1,091			1,066
			Total expenses			1,134			1,141			1,133
	LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES
	AND EQUITY IN EARNINGS OF SUBSIDIARIES					-1,357			-176			-748
			Total income tax expense (benefit)			-492			-80			-266
	LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE EQUITY IN
	EARNINGS OF SUBSIDIARIES					-865			-96			-482
	Equity in earnings of subsidiaries					2,246			-571			1,002
	INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS					1,381			-667			520
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes					0			0			0
NET INCOME (LOSS)				$	1,381		$	-667		$	520
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)				$	8,750		$	-2,200		$	5,489
See Notes to Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule II
	Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
	Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012
	(in millions)
				2014			2013			2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss)				$	1,381		$	-667		$	520
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
	Equity in earnings of subsidiaries				-2,246			571			-1,002
	Realized investment (gains) losses, net				793			-390			33
	Dividends received from subsidiaries				2,218			2,483			2,435
	Change in:
		Due to/from subsidiaries, net			5,718			-1,753			1,920
		Other, net			647			-418			9
		Cash flows from (used in) operating activities			8,511			-174			3,915
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from the sale/maturity of:
		Fixed maturities, available-for-sale			0			0			191
		Equity securities, available-for-sale			0			0			0
		Commercial loans			0			0			312
		Investment contracts from subsidiaries			0			0			525
		Short-term investments			10,207			6,522			2,485
Payments for the purchase of:
		Equity securities, available-for-sale			0			0			0
		Commercial loans			0			0			-68
		Investment contracts from subsidiaries			0			-1			0
		Short-term investments			-11,394			-6,544			-2,550
Capital contributions to subsidiaries					-3,065			-1,760			-1,912
Returns of capital contributions from subsidiaries					258			524			427
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries					0			0			0
Loans to subsidiaries, net of maturities					925			-22			825
Other, investing					21			32			24
		Cash flows from (used in) investing activities			-3,048			-1,249			259
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock					-1,008			-828			-749
Cash dividends paid on Class B Stock					-19			-19			-19
Common Stock acquired					-999			-738			-650
Common Stock reissued for exercise of stock options					269			348			150
Proceeds from the issuance of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)					2,063			2,414			3,180
Repayments of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)					-1,659			-3,257			-2,737
Repayments of loans from subsidiaries					-241			-102			-20
Proceeds from loans payable to subsidiaries					558			545			400
Net change in financing arrangements (maturities of 90 days or less)					-94			65			-143
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements					7			10			12
Other, financing					-18			-45			-44
		Cash flows from (used in) financing activities			-1,141			-1,607			-620
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS					4,322			-3,030			3,554
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD					4,370			7,400			3,846
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD				$	8,692		$	4,370		$	7,400
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Cash paid during the period for interest				$	1,036		$	1,070		$	1,040
Cash paid (refunds received) during the period for taxes				$	-1,231		$	246		$	-256
NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS DURING THE YEAR
Non-cash capital contributions to subsidiaries				$	100		$	1,097		$	0
Non-cash dividends from subsidiaries				$	650		$	942		$	0
Treasury Stock shares issued for stock-based compensation programs				$	100		$	105		$	211
See Notes to Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
Schedule II
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Notes to Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
ORGANIZATION AND PRESENTATION
Prudential Financial, Inc. (“Prudential Financial”) was incorporated on December 28, 1999 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Prudential Insurance Company of America. On December 18, 2001, The Prudential Insurance Company of America converted from a mutual life insurance company to a stock life insurance company and became an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Prudential Financial.
The condensed financial statements of Prudential Financial reflect its direct wholly-owned subsidiaries using the equity method of accounting.
Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.
OTHER INVESTMENTS
Prudential Financial's other investments as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 primarily consisted of money market funds and derivative instruments.
DEBT
A summary of Prudential Financial's short- and long-term debt is as follows:
			Maturity Dates		Rate(1)		31-Dec-14			31-Dec-13
							(in millions)
Short-term debt:
	Commercial Paper(2)						$	97		$	190
	Current portion of long-term debt							2,222			1,531
Total short-term debt							$	2,319		$	1,721
Long-term debt:
	Fixed rate senior notes		2015-2044		2.30%-7.38%		$	10,667		$	10,907
	Floating rate senior notes		2015-2020		1.00%-4.88%			510			555
	Junior subordinated notes		2042-2068		5.20%-8.88%			4,884			4,884
Total long-term debt							$	16,061		$	16,346
Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.
The weighted average interest rate on outstanding commercial paper was 0.28% and 0.32% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Long-term Debt
In order to modify exposure to interest rate movements, Prudential Financial utilizes derivative instruments, primarily interest rate swaps, in conjunction with some of its debt issues. The impact of these derivative instruments are not reflected in the rates presented in the table above. For those derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting treatment, interest expense was increased by $2 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and decreased by $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Schedule of Long-term Debt Maturities
The following table presents, as of December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial's contractual maturities for long-term debt:
			Calendar Year
			2016			2017			2018			2019		2020 and thereafter		Total
			(in millions)
Long-term debt			$	751		$	971		$	831		$	1,100	$	12,408	$	16,061
4.       DIVIDENDS AND RETURNS OF CAPITAL
For the years ended December 31, Prudential Financial received cash dividends and/or returns of capital from the following companies:
		2014			2013			2012
		(in millions)
Prudential Holdings, LLC		$	400		$	0		$	600
Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation			342			284			408
International Insurance and Investments Holding Companies			526			1,642			865
Prudential Asset Management Holding Company			588			441			646
Other Holding Companies			620			640			343
Total		$	2,476		$	3,007		$	2,862
COMMITMENTS AND GUARANTEES
Prudential Financial has issued a subordinated guarantee covering a subsidiary's domestic commercial paper program. As of December 31, 2014, there was $386 million outstanding under this commercial paper program.
Prudential Financial has provided guarantees of the payment of principal and interest on inter-company loans between affiliates. As of December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial had issued guarantees of outstanding loans totaling $4.6 billion between International Insurance subsidiaries and other affiliates.
In 2004, Prudential Financial entered into a $200 million liquidity facility agreement with a subsidiary. Under the facility, Prudential Financial may provide loans to the subsidiary from time to time in order to support payment obligations of the subsidiary arising under affiliated reinsurance arrangements and borrowings. There were no outstanding loans under the facility as of December 31, 2014.
Prudential Financial is also subject to other financial guarantees, net worth maintenance agreements and indemnity arrangements, including those made in the normal course of businesses guaranteeing the performance of, or representations made by, Prudential Financial subsidiaries. Prudential Financial has provided indemnities and guarantees related to acquisitions and dispositions, investments, debt issuances and other transactions, including those provided as part of its on-going operations that are triggered by, among other things, breaches of representations, warranties or covenants provided by Prudential Financial or its subsidiaries. These obligations are typically subject to various time limitations, defined by the contract or by operation of law, such as statutes of limitation. In some cases, the maximum potential obligation is subject to contractual limitations, while in other cases such limitations are not specified or applicable. Since certain of these obligations are not subject to limitations, it is not possible to determine the maximum potential amount due under these guarantees. At December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial has accrued liabilities of $5 million associated with all other financial guarantees and indemnity arrangements.
REDEMPTION OF CLASS B SHARES
From demutualization through December 31, 2014, Prudential Financial has had two classes of common stock: the Common Stock, which is publicly traded (NYSE:PRU) and which has reflected the performance of the Financial Services Businesses, and the Class B Stock, which was issued through a private placement, did not trade on any stock exchange, and has reflected the performance of the Closed Block Business.
On December 1, 2014, Prudential Financial entered into a Share Repurchase Agreement (the “Share Repurchase Agreement”) with National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, P.A., Lexington Insurance Company and Pacific Life Corp., the holders of 100% of the outstanding shares of the Class B Stock (the “Class B Holders”). Pursuant to the Share Repurchase Agreement, on January 2, 2015, Prudential Financial repurchased from the Class B Holders 2 million shares of the Class B Stock, representing all of the outstanding shares of the Class B Stock, for an aggregate cash purchase price of $651 million (the “Class B Repurchase”). The purchase price was determined by an independent appraiser under the methodology set forth in Prudential Financial's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Pursuant to the Share Repurchase Agreement, holders of a majority of the Class B Stock may dispute the purchase price prior to April 6, 2015, and any dispute may be resolved through arbitration. Accordingly, the final purchase price of the Class B Stock may change in the event of a dispute.

Supplementary_Insurance_Inform

Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014																					Dec. 31, 2013																					Dec. 31, 2012
Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Supplementary Insurance Information, for Insurance Companies Disclosure [Text Block]	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.																					PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.																					PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule III																					Schedule III																					Schedule III
	Supplementary Insurance Information																					Supplementary Insurance Information																					Supplementary Insurance Information
	As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2014 (in millions)																					As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2013 (in millions)																					As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2012 (in millions)
			Segment	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs		Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable		Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income		Net Investment Income		Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses		Amortization of DAC		Other Operating Expenses				Segment	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs		Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable		Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income		Net Investment Income		Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses		Amortization of DAC		Other Operating Expenses				Segment	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs		Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable		Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income		Net Investment Income		Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses		Amortization of DAC		Other Operating Expenses
	Individual Annuities			$	5,376	$	10,220	$	0	$	8,693	$	2,785	$	615	$	1,017	$	603	$	1,791	Individual Annuities			$	5,490	$	2,341	$	0	$	9,035	$	2,541	$	685	$	-30	$	-956	$	1,661	Individual Annuities			$	3,829	$	5,360	$	0	$	10,608	$	2,140	$	770	$	776	$	-397	$	1,581
	Retirement				117		49,237		1,848		47,465		7,013		4,238		9,918		33		1,020	Retirement				225		45,241		1,939		46,475		1,107		4,084		3,294		15		984	Retirement				207		47,297		2,142		45,674		32,604		3,203		35,349		49		896
	Asset Management				0		0		0		0		0		120		0		20		1,976	Asset Management				0		0		0		0		0		87		0		25		1,826	Asset Management				0		0		0		0		0		106		0		24		1,785
		U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment																					U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment																					U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment
			Management Division		5,493		59,457		1,848		56,158		9,798		4,973		10,935		656		4,787			Management Division		5,715		47,582		1,939		55,510		3,648		4,856		3,264		-916		4,471			Management Division		4,036		52,657		2,142		56,282		34,744		4,079		36,125		-324		4,262
	Individual Life				4,056		9,224		0		21,463		3,073		1,610		3,040		368		1,745	Individual Life				4,112		7,407		0		20,746		2,660		1,403		2,238		95		1,363	Individual Life				3,115		5,144		0		10,590		1,976		1,033		1,570		419		995
	Group Insurance				177		4,925		201		8,342		4,626		610		4,468		8		863	Group Insurance				183		4,921		193		8,179		4,813		581		4,535		10		820	Group Insurance				182		4,920		187		8,073		4,908		586		4,756		5		824
		U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division			4,233		14,149		201		29,805		7,699		2,220		7,508		376		2,608		U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division			4,295		12,328		193		28,925		7,473		1,984		6,773		105		2,183		U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division			3,297		10,064		187		18,663		6,884		1,619		6,326		424		1,819
	International Insurance				6,156		87,744		543		44,977		14,961		4,434		13,432		962		2,608	International Insurance				6,407		90,641		504		46,948		17,482		4,291		16,057		998		2,782	International Insurance				6,589		96,412		462		54,289		25,015		4,245		22,431		1,167		3,474
		International Insurance Division			6,156		87,744		543		44,977		14,961		4,434		13,432		962		2,608		International Insurance Division			6,407		90,641		504		46,948		17,482		4,291		16,057		998		2,782		International Insurance Division			6,589		96,412		462		54,289		25,015		4,245		22,431		1,167		3,474
	Corporate and Other				-321		3,961		0		18		310		622		594		-58		773	Corporate and Other				-316		3,414		0		12		321		582		420		16		1,018	Corporate and Other				-234		3,286		1		10		383		565		1,056		199		987
		Total Financial Services Businesses			15,561		165,311		2,592		130,958		32,768		12,249		32,469		1,936		10,776		Total Financial Services Businesses			16,101		153,965		2,636		131,395		28,924		11,713		26,514		203		10,454		Total Financial Services Businesses			13,688		162,419		2,792		129,244		67,026		10,508		65,938		1,466		10,542
	Closed Block Business				410		49,863		0		12,853		2,704		3,007		6,097		37		1,031	Closed Block Business				411		50,258		0		10,777		2,728		3,016		5,380		37		557	Closed Block Business				412		50,839		0		12,676		2,817		3,153		5,603		38		552
		Total		$	15,971	$	215,174	$	2,592	$	143,811	$	35,472	$	15,256	$	38,566	$	1,973	$	11,807		Total		$	16,512	$	204,223	$	2,636	$	142,172	$	31,652	$	14,729	$	31,894	$	240	$	11,011		Total		$	14,100	$	213,258	$	2,792	$	141,920	$	69,843	$	13,661	$	71,541	$	1,504	$	11,094

Reinsurance_Schedule

Reinsurance Schedule	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract]
Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Text Block]	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule IV
	Reinsurance
	For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in millions)
								Assumed				Percentage
						Ceded to		from				of Amount
				Gross		Other		Other		Net		Assumed
				Amount		Companies		Companies		Amount		to Net
	2014
	Life Insurance Face Amount In Force			$	3,492,396	$	633,501	$	245,674	$	3,104,569	7.9	%
	Premiums:
		Life Insurance		$	26,638	$	1,451	$	1,134	$	26,321	4.3	%
		Accident and Health Insurance			3,028		56		0		2,972	0
			Total Premiums	$	29,666	$	1,507	$	1,134	$	29,293	3.9	%
	2013
	Life Insurance Face Amount In Force			$	3,534,834	$	521,189	$	185,479	$	3,199,124	5.8	%
	Premiums:
		Life Insurance		$	24,068	$	1,408	$	272	$	22,932	1.2	%
		Accident and Health Insurance			3,376		71		0		3,305	0
			Total Premiums	$	27,444	$	1,479	$	272	$	26,237	1	%
	2012
	Life Insurance Face Amount In Force			$	3,645,504	$	456,329	$	22,050	$	3,211,225	0.7	%
	Premiums:
		Life Insurance		$	62,603	$	1,374	$	223	$	61,452	0.4	%
		Accident and Health Insurance			3,963		62		1		3,902	0
			Total Premiums	$	66,566	$	1,436	$	224	$	65,354	0.3	%

Valuation_and_Qualifying_Accou

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]	PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC.
	Schedule V
	Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
	For the Years Ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 (in millions)
					Additions
			Balance at		Charged to							Effect of		Balance
			Beginning		Costs and							Foreign		at End
	Description		of Period		Expenses		Other		Deductions			Exchange Rates		of Period
	2014
	Allowance for losses on commercial mortgage
		and other loans	$	216	$	0	$	0	$	96	-1	$	-1	$	119
	Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset			235		44		0		0			-2		277
			$	451	$	44	$	0	$	96		$	-3	$	396
	2013
	Allowance for losses on commercial mortgage
		and other loans	$	269	$	0	$	0	$	48	-1	$	-5	$	216
	Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset			280		-42		-1		0			-2		235
			$	549	$	-42	$	-1	$	48		$	-7	$	451
	2012
	Allowance for losses on commercial mortgage
		and other loans	$	367	$	0	$	0	$	96	-1	$	-2	$	269
	Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset			392		-108		-3		0			-1		280
			$	759	$	-108	$	-3	$	96		$	-3	$	549
	Represents release of allowance for losses and charge-offs, net of recoveries.

Business_and_Basis_of_Presenta1

Business and Basis of Presentation (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business and Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation, Policy	Basis of Presentation
	The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Prudential Financial, entities over which the Company exercises control, including majority-owned subsidiaries and minority-owned entities such as limited partnerships in which the Company is the general partner, and variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary. See Note 5 for more information on the Company's consolidated variable interest entities. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
	The Company's Gibraltar Life Insurance Company, Ltd. (“Gibraltar Life”) consolidated operations, including the previously-acquired AIG Star Life Insurance Co., Ltd., AIG Edison Life Insurance Company, AIG Financial Assurance Japan K.K., and AIG Edison Service Co., Ltd. (collectively the “Star and Edison Businesses”) use a November 30 fiscal year end for purposes of inclusion in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. Therefore, the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 include the assets and liabilities of Gibraltar Life as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, include Gibraltar Life's results of operations for the twelve months ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Use of Estimates, Policy	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	The most significant estimates include those used in determining deferred policy acquisition costs and related amortization; value of business acquired and its amortization; amortization of sales inducements; measurement of goodwill and any related impairment; valuation of investments including derivatives and the recognition of other-than-temporary impairments; future policy benefits including guarantees; pension and other postretirement benefits; provision for income taxes and valuation of deferred tax assets; and reserves for contingent liabilities, including reserves for losses in connection with unresolved legal matters.
Out of Period Adjustment, Policy	Out of Period Adjustments
	During 2014, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $193 million to “Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014. Such adjustments were primarily comprised of: 1) a charge of $58 million from an increase in reserves for group long-term disability products; 2) a charge of $43 million from an increase in the deferred profit liability for certain limited pay business within the Gibraltar Life business; and 3) a charge of $35 million from an increase in reserves, net of related amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, for certain variable annuities products with optional living benefit guarantees. Management has evaluated the impact of all out of period adjustments, both individually and in the aggregate, and concluded that they are not material to the current annual financial statements or to any previously reported quarterly or annual financial statements. For additional information on the impact of these adjustments to the Company's operating segments, see Note 22.
	As previously disclosed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, during 2012, the Company recorded out of period adjustments resulting in an aggregate net decrease of $170 million to “Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of operating joint ventures” for the year ended December 31, 2012. These adjustments primarily resulted from 1) a decline in the value of a real estate-related investment, where, based on a review of the underlying collateral and a related guarantee, the Company determined that impairments of $75 million should be recognized, of which $61 million should have been recorded in prior years; 2) an increase of $61 million in reserves for estimated payments arising from use of new Social Security Master Death File matching criteria to identify deceased policy and contract holders which should have been reflected in the third quarter of 2011; and 3) an increase of $54 million in recorded liabilities for certain employee benefits based on a review of the consistency of recognition of such liabilities across the Company which should have been recorded in prior years. Management has evaluated the impact of all out of period adjustments both individually and in the aggregate and concluded they were not material to any previously reported quarterly or annual financial statements.
Reclassifications, Policy	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation.

Significant_Accounting_Policie1

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Share Based Payments	Share-Based Payments
	The Company recognizes the cost resulting from all share-based payments in accordance with the authoritative guidance on accounting for stock based compensation and applies the fair value-based measurement method in accounting for share-based payment transactions with employees except for equity instruments held by employee share ownership plans. The Company accounts for excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital as a single “pool” available to all share-based compensation awards. The Company does not recognize excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital until the benefits result in a reduction in taxes payable. The Company has elected the “tax-law ordering methodology” and has adopted a convention that considers excess tax benefits to be the last portion of a net operating loss carryforward to be utilized.
	The Company accounts for non-employee stock options using the fair value method in accordance with authoritative guidance and related interpretations on accounting for equity instruments that are issued to other than employees for acquiring, or in conjunction with selling, goods or services.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share
	As discussed in Note 1, from demutualization through December 31, 2014, the Company has had outstanding two separate classes of common stock. Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing available income attributable to each of the two groups of common shareholders by the respective weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share includes the effect of all dilutive potential common shares that were outstanding during the period.
	As discussed under “Share-Based Payments” above, the Company accounts for excess tax benefits in additional paid-in capital as a single “pool” available to all share-based compensation awards. The Company reflects in assumed proceeds, based on application of the treasury stock method, the excess tax benefits that would be recognized in additional paid-in capital upon exercise or release of the award.
Investments in Debt, Equity Securities, and Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans	Investments and Investment-Related Liabilities
	The Company's principal investments are fixed maturities; equity securities; commercial mortgage and other loans; policy loans; other long-term investments, including joint ventures (other than operating joint ventures), limited partnerships, and real estate; and short-term investments. Investments and investment-related liabilities also include securities repurchase and resale agreements and securities lending transactions. The accounting policies related to each are as follows:
	Fixed maturities are comprised of bonds, notes and redeemable preferred stock. Fixed maturities classified as “available-for-sale” are carried at fair value. See Note 20 for additional information regarding the determination of fair value. Fixed maturities that the Company has both the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are carried at amortized cost and classified as “held-to-maturity.” The amortized cost of fixed maturities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Interest income, as well as the related amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is included in “Net investment income” under the effective yield method. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, the effective yield is based on estimated cash flows, including interest rate and prepayment assumptions based on data from widely accepted third-party data sources or internal estimates. In addition to interest rate and prepayment assumptions, cash flow estimates also vary based on other assumptions regarding the underlying collateral, including default rates and changes in value. These assumptions can significantly impact income recognition and the amount of other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings and other comprehensive income. For high credit quality mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities (those rated AA or above), cash flows are provided quarterly, and the amortized cost and effective yield of the security are adjusted as necessary to reflect historical prepayment experience and changes in estimated future prepayments. The adjustments to amortized cost are recorded as a charge or credit to net investment income in accordance with the retrospective method. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities rated below AA, or those for which an other than temporary impairment has been recorded, the effective yield is adjusted prospectively for any changes in estimated cash flows. See the discussion below on realized investment gains and losses for a description of the accounting for impairments. Unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturities classified as “available-for-sale,” net of tax, and the effect on deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, deferred sales inducements (“DSI”), future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances and policyholders' dividends that would result from the realization of unrealized gains and losses, are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” (“AOCI”).
	“Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value” includes invested assets that support certain products included in the Retirement and International Insurance segments which are experience rated, meaning that the investment results associated with these products are expected to ultimately accrue to contractholders. Realized and unrealized gains and losses for these investments are reported in “Other income.” Interest and dividend income from these investments is reported in “Net investment income.”
	“Other trading account assets, at fair value” consist primarily of fixed maturities, equity securities, including certain perpetual preferred stock, and certain derivatives. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on these investments are reported in “Other income,” and interest and dividend income from these investments is reported in “Net investment income.” See “Derivative Financial Instruments” below for additional information regarding the accounting for derivatives.
	“Equity securities available-for-sale, at fair value” are comprised of common stock, mutual fund shares and non-redeemable preferred stock, and are carried at fair value. The associated unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, and the effect on deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, DSI, future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances and policyholders' dividends that would result from the realization of unrealized gains and losses, are included in AOCI. The cost of equity securities is written down to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. See the discussion below on realized investment gains and losses for a description of the accounting for impairments. Dividends from these investments are recognized in “Net investment income” when earned.
	“Commercial mortgage and other loans” consist of commercial mortgage loans, agricultural loans, loans backed by residential properties, as well as certain other collateralized and uncollateralized loans. Loans backed by residential properties primarily include recourse loans held by the Company's international insurance businesses. Uncollateralized loans primarily represent reverse dual currency loans and corporate loans held by the Company's international insurance businesses.
	Commercial mortgage and other loans originated and held for investment are generally carried at unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized deferred loan origination fees and expenses, and net of an allowance for losses. Commercial mortgage loans originated within the Company's commercial mortgage operations include loans held for sale which are reported at the lower of cost or fair value; loans held for investment which are reported at amortized cost net of unamortized deferred loan origination fees and expenses, and net of an allowance for losses; and loans reported at fair value under the fair value option. Commercial mortgage and other loans acquired, including those related to the acquisition of a business, are recorded at fair value when purchased, reflecting any premiums or discounts to unpaid principal balances.
	Interest income, as well as prepayment fees and the amortization of the related premiums or discounts, related to commercial mortgage and other loans, are included in “Net investment income.”
	Impaired loans include those loans for which it is probable that amounts due will not all be collected according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. The Company defines “past due” as principal or interest not collected at least 30 days past the scheduled contractual due date. Interest received on loans that are past due, including impaired and non-impaired loans as well as loans that were previously modified in a troubled debt restructuring, is either applied against the principal or reported as net investment income based on the Company's assessment as to the collectability of the principal. See Note 4 for additional information about the Company's past due loans.
	The Company discontinues accruing interest on loans after the loans become 90 days delinquent as to principal or interest payments, or earlier when the Company has doubts about collectability. When the Company discontinues accruing interest on a loan, any accrued but uncollectible interest on the loan and other loans backed by the same collateral, if any, is charged to interest income in the same period. Generally, a loan is restored to accrual status only after all delinquent interest and principal are brought current and, in the case of loans where the payment of interest has been interrupted for a substantial period, or the loan has been modified, a regular payment performance has been established.
	The Company reviews the performance and credit quality of the commercial mortgage and other loan portfolio on an on-going basis. Loans are placed on watch list status based on a predefined set of criteria and are assigned one of three categories. Loans are placed on “early warning” status in cases where, based on the Company's analysis of the loan's collateral, the financial situation of the borrower or tenants or other market factors, it is believed a loss of principal or interest could occur. Loans are classified as “closely monitored” when it is determined that there is a collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. Loans “not in good standing” are those loans where the Company has concluded that there is a high probability of loss of principal, such as when the loan is delinquent or in the process of foreclosure. As described below, in determining the allowance for losses, the Company evaluates each loan on the watch list to determine if it is probable that amounts due will not be collected according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.
	Loan-to-value and debt service coverage ratios are measures commonly used to assess the quality of commercial mortgage loans. The loan-to-value ratio compares the amount of the loan to the fair value of the underlying property collateralizing the loan, and is commonly expressed as a percentage. Loan-to-value ratios greater than 100% indicate that the loan amount exceeds the collateral value. A smaller loan-to-value ratio indicates a greater excess of collateral value over the loan amount. The debt service coverage ratio compares a property's net operating income to its debt service payments. Debt service coverage ratios less than 1.0 times indicate that property operations do not generate enough income to cover the loan's current debt payments. A larger debt service coverage ratio indicates a greater excess of net operating income over the debt service payments. The values utilized in calculating these ratios are developed as part of the Company's periodic review of the commercial mortgage loan and agricultural loan portfolio, which includes an internal appraisal of the underlying collateral value. The Company's periodic review also includes a quality re-rating process, whereby the internal quality rating originally assigned at underwriting is updated based on current loan, property and market information using a proprietary quality rating system. The loan-to-value ratio is the most significant of several inputs used to establish the internal credit rating of a loan which in turn drives the allowance for losses. Other key factors considered in determining the internal credit rating include debt service coverage ratios, amortization, loan term, estimated market value growth rate and volatility for the property type and region. See Note 4 for additional information related to the loan-to-value ratios and debt service coverage ratios related to the Company's commercial mortgage and agricultural loan portfolios.
	Loans backed by residential properties and uncollateralized loans are also reviewed periodically. Each loan is assigned an internal or external credit rating. Internal credit ratings take into consideration various factors including financial ratios and qualitative assessments based on non-financial information. In cases where there are personal or third party guarantors, the credit quality of the guarantor is also reviewed. These factors are used in developing the allowance for losses. Based on the diversity of the loans in these categories and their immateriality, the Company has not disclosed the credit quality indicators related to these loans in Note 4.
	For those loans not reported at fair value, the allowance for losses includes a loan specific reserve for each impaired loan that has a specifically identified loss and a portfolio reserve for probable incurred but not specifically identified losses. For impaired commercial mortgage and other loans the allowances for losses are determined based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or based upon the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. The portfolio reserves for probable incurred but not specifically identified losses in the commercial mortgage and agricultural loan portfolios consider the current credit composition of the portfolio based on an internal quality rating (as described above). The portfolio reserves are determined using past loan experience, including historical credit migration, loss probability and loss severity factors by property type. These factors are reviewed each quarter and updated as appropriate.
	The allowance for losses on commercial mortgage and other loans can increase or decrease from period to period based on the factors noted above. “Realized investment gains (losses), net” includes changes in the allowance for losses and changes in value for loans accounted for under the fair value option. “Realized investment gains (losses), net” also includes gains and losses on sales, certain restructurings, and foreclosures.
	When a commercial mortgage or other loan is deemed to be uncollectible, any specific valuation allowance associated with the loan is reversed and a direct write down to the carrying amount of the loan is made. The carrying amount of the loan is not adjusted for subsequent recoveries in value.
	Commercial mortgage and other loans are occasionally restructured in a troubled debt restructuring. These restructurings generally include one or more of the following: full or partial payoffs outside of the original contract terms; changes to interest rates; extensions of maturity; or additions or modifications to covenants. Additionally, the Company may accept assets in full or partial satisfaction of the debt as part of a troubled debt restructuring. When restructurings occur, they are evaluated individually to determine whether the restructuring or modification constitutes a "troubled debt restructuring" as defined by authoritative accounting guidance. If the borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the Company has granted a concession, the restructuring, including those that involve a partial payoff or the receipt of assets in full satisfaction of the debt is deemed to be a troubled debt restructuring. Based on the Company's credit review process described above, these loans generally would have been deemed impaired prior to the troubled debt restructuring, and specific allowances for losses would have been established prior to the determination that a troubled debt restructuring has occurred.
	In a troubled debt restructuring where the Company receives assets in full satisfaction of the debt, any specific valuation allowance is reversed and a direct write down of the loan is recorded for the amount of the allowance, and any additional loss, net of recoveries, or any gain is recorded for the difference between the fair value of the assets received and the recorded investment in the loan. When assets are received in partial settlement, the same process is followed, and the remaining loan is evaluated prospectively for impairment based on the credit review process noted above. When a loan is restructured in a troubled debt restructuring, the impairment of the loan is remeasured using the modified terms and the loan's original effective yield, and the allowance for loss is adjusted accordingly. Subsequent to the modification, income is recognized prospectively based on the modified terms of the loans in accordance with the income recognition policy noted above. Additionally, the loan continues to be subject to the credit review process noted above.
	In situations where a loan has been restructured in a troubled debt restructuring and the loan has subsequently defaulted, this factor is considered when evaluating the loan for a specific allowance for losses in accordance with the credit review process noted above.
	See Note 4 for additional information about commercial mortgage and other loans that have been restructured in a troubled debt restructuring.
	“Policy loans” are carried at unpaid principal balances. Interest income on policy loans is recognized in net investment income at the contract interest rate when earned. Policy loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the associated insurance policies.
	Securities repurchase and resale agreements and securities loaned transactions are used primarily to earn spread income, to borrow funds, or to facilitate trading activity. As part of securities repurchase agreements or securities loaned transactions, the Company transfers U.S. and foreign debt and equity securities, as well as U.S. government and government agency securities, and receives cash as collateral. As part of securities resale agreements, the Company invests cash and receives as collateral U.S. government securities or other debt securities. For securities repurchase agreements and securities loaned transactions used to earn spread income, the cash received is typically invested in cash equivalents, short-term investments or fixed maturities.
	Securities repurchase and resale agreements that satisfy certain criteria are treated as secured borrowing or secured lending arrangements. These agreements are carried at the amounts at which the securities will be subsequently resold or reacquired, as specified in the respective transactions. For securities purchased under agreements to resell, the Company's policy is to take possession or control of the securities either directly or through a third party custodian. These securities are valued daily and additional securities or cash collateral is received, or returned, when appropriate to protect against credit exposure. Securities to be resold are the same, or substantially the same, as the securities received. For securities sold under agreements to repurchase, the market value of the securities to be repurchased is monitored, and additional collateral is obtained where appropriate, to protect against credit exposure. Securities to be repurchased are the same, or substantially the same, as those sold. Income and expenses related to these transactions executed within the insurance companies used to earn spread income are reported as “Net investment income;” however, for transactions used for funding purposes, the associated borrowing cost is reported as interest expense (included in “General and administrative expenses”). Income and expenses related to these transactions executed within the Company's derivative operations are reported in “Other income.”
	Securities loaned transactions are treated as financing arrangements and are recorded at the amount of cash received. The Company obtains collateral in an amount equal to 102% and 105% of the fair value of the domestic and foreign securities, respectively. The Company monitors the market value of the securities loaned on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained as necessary. Substantially all of the Company's securities loaned transactions are with large brokerage firms. Income and expenses associated with securities loaned transactions used to earn spread income are reported as “Net investment income;” however, for securities loaned transactions used for funding purposes the associated rebate is reported as interest expense (included in “General and administrative expenses”).
	“Other long-term investments” consist of the Company's non-coupon investments in joint ventures and limited partnerships, other than operating joint ventures, as well as wholly-owned investment real estate and other investments. Joint venture and partnership interests are either accounted for using the equity method of accounting or under the cost method when the Company's partnership interest is so minor (generally less than 3%) that it exercises virtually no influence over operating and financial policies. The Company's income from investments in joint ventures and partnerships accounted for using the equity method or the cost method, other than the Company's investment in operating joint ventures, is included in “Net investment income.” The carrying value of these investments is written down, or impaired, to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. In applying the equity method or the cost method (including assessment for other-than-temporary impairment), the Company uses financial information provided by the investee, generally on a one to three month lag. The Company consolidates joint ventures and limited partnerships in certain other instances where it is deemed to exercise control, or is considered the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. See Note 5 for additional information about variable interest entities.
	The Company's wholly-owned investment real estate consists of real estate which the Company has the intent to hold for the production of income as well as real estate held for sale. Real estate which the Company has the intent to hold for the production of income is carried at depreciated cost less any writedowns to fair value for impairment losses and is reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Real estate held for sale is carried at the lower of depreciated cost or fair value less estimated selling costs and is not further depreciated once classified as such. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of the investment real estate exceeds the estimated undiscounted future cash flows (excluding interest charges) from the investment. At that time, the carrying value of the investment real estate is written down to fair value. Decreases in the carrying value of investment real estate held for the production of income due to other-than-temporary impairments are recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Depreciation on real estate held for the production of income is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated lives of the properties, and is included in “Net investment income.” In the period a real estate investment is deemed held for sale and meets all of the discontinued operation criteria, the Company reports all related net investment income and any resulting investment gains and losses as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	“Short-term investments” primarily consist of highly liquid debt instruments with a maturity of twelve months or less and greater than three months when purchased, other than those debt instruments meeting this definition that are included in “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.” These investments are generally carried at fair value and include certain money market investments, short-term debt securities issued by government sponsored entities and other highly liquid debt instruments. Short-term investments held in the Company's former broker-dealer operations were marked-to-market through “Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes.”
	Realized investment gains (losses) are computed using the specific identification method with the exception of some of the Company's International Insurance businesses' portfolios, where the average cost method is used. Realized investment gains and losses are generated from numerous sources, including the sale of fixed maturity securities, equity securities, investments in joint ventures and limited partnerships and other types of investments, as well as adjustments to the cost basis of investments for net other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings. Realized investment gains and losses are also generated from prepayment premiums received on private fixed maturity securities, allowance for losses on commercial mortgage and other loans, fair value changes on commercial mortgage loans carried at fair value, and fair value changes on embedded derivatives and free-standing derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment. See “Derivative Financial Instruments” below for additional information regarding the accounting for derivatives.
	The Company's available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities with unrealized losses are reviewed quarterly to identify other-than-temporary impairments in value. In evaluating whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary, the Company considers several factors including, but not limited to the following: (1) the extent and the duration of the decline; (2) the reasons for the decline in value (credit event, currency or interest-rate related, including general credit spread widening); and (3) the financial condition of and near-term prospects of the issuer. With regard to available-for-sale equity securities, the Company also considers the ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time to allow for a recovery of value. When it is determined that a decline in value of an equity security is other-than-temporary, the carrying value of the equity security is reduced to its fair value, with a corresponding charge to earnings.
	An other-than-temporary impairment is recognized in earnings for a debt security in an unrealized loss position when the Company either (a) has the intent to sell the debt security or (b) more likely than not will be required to sell the debt security before its anticipated recovery. For all debt securities in unrealized loss positions that do not meet either of these two criteria, the Company analyzes its ability to recover the amortized cost by comparing the net present value of projected future cash flows with the amortized cost of the security. The net present value is calculated by discounting the Company's best estimate of projected future cash flows at the effective interest rate implicit in the debt security prior to impairment. The Company may use the estimated fair value of collateral as a proxy for the net present value if it believes that the security is dependent on the liquidation of collateral for recovery of its investment. If the net present value is less than the amortized cost of the investment, an other-than-temporary impairment is recognized. In addition to the above mentioned circumstances, the Company also recognizes an other-than-temporary impairment in earnings when a non-functional currency denominated security in an unrealized loss position due to currency exchange rates approaches maturity.
	When an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security has occurred, the amount of the other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings depends on whether the Company intends to sell the security or more likely than not will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. If the debt security meets either of these two criteria or the unrealized losses due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates are not expected to be recovered before maturity, the other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings is equal to the entire difference between the security's amortized cost basis and its fair value at the impairment measurement date. For other-than-temporary impairments of debt securities that do not meet these criteria, the net amount recognized in earnings is equal to the difference between the amortized cost of the debt security and its net present value calculated as described above. Any difference between the fair value and the net present value of the debt security at the impairment measurement date is recorded in “Other comprehensive income (loss).” Unrealized gains or losses on securities for which an other-than-temporary impairment has been recognized in earnings is tracked as a separate component of AOCI.
	For debt securities, the split between the amount of an other-than-temporary impairment recognized in other comprehensive income and the net amount recognized in earnings is driven principally by assumptions regarding the amount and timing of projected cash flows. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, cash flow estimates consider the payment terms of the underlying assets backing a particular security, including interest rate and prepayment assumptions based on data from widely accepted third-party data sources or internal estimates. In addition to interest rate and prepayment assumptions, cash flow estimates also include other assumptions regarding the underlying collateral including default rates and recoveries, which vary based on the asset type and geographic location, as well as the vintage year of the security. For structured securities, the payment priority within the tranche structure is also considered. For all other debt securities, cash flow estimates are driven by assumptions regarding probability of default and estimates regarding timing and amount of recoveries associated with a default. The Company has developed these estimates using information based on its historical experience as well as using market observable data, such as industry analyst reports and forecasts, sector credit ratings and other data relevant to the collectability of a security, such as the general payment terms of the security and the security's position within the capital structure of the issuer.
	The new cost basis of an impaired security is not adjusted for subsequent increases in estimated fair value. In periods subsequent to the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment, the impaired security is accounted for as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the impairment. For debt securities, the discount (or reduced premium) based on the new cost basis may be accreted into net investment income in future periods, including increases in cash flow on a prospective basis. In certain cases where there are decreased cash flow expectations, the security is reviewed for further cash flow impairments.
	Unrealized investment gains and losses are also considered in determining certain other balances, including deferred policy acquisition costs, the value of business acquired, DSI, certain future policy benefits, policyholders' account balances, policyholders' dividends and deferred tax assets or liabilities. These balances are adjusted, as applicable, for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. Each of these balances is discussed in greater detail below.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, amounts due from banks, certain money market investments and other debt instruments with maturities of three months or less when purchased, other than cash equivalents that are included in “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.”
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
	Costs that are related directly to the successful acquisition of new and renewal insurance and annuity business are deferred to the extent such costs are deemed recoverable from future profits. Such DAC primarily includes commissions, costs of policy issuance and underwriting, and certain other expenses that are directly related to successfully negotiated contracts. In each reporting period, capitalized DAC is amortized to “Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs,” net of the accrual of imputed interest on DAC balances. DAC is subject to periodic recoverability testing. DAC, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI.
	For traditional participating life insurance included in the Closed Block, DAC is amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross margins based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is evaluated regularly. The effect of changes in estimated gross margins on unamortized DAC is reflected in the period such estimated gross margins are revised. Deferred policy acquisition costs related to interest-sensitive and variable life products and fixed and variable deferred annuity products are generally deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross profits arising principally from investment margins, mortality and expense margins, and surrender charges, based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is updated periodically. The Company uses a reversion to the mean approach for equities to derive future equity return assumptions. However, if the projected equity return calculated using this approach is greater than the maximum equity return assumption, the maximum equity return is utilized. Gross profits also include impacts from the embedded derivatives associated with certain of the optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity contracts and related hedging activities. The effect of changes to total gross profits on unamortized DAC is reflected in “Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs” in the period such total gross profits are revised. DAC related to non-participating traditional individual life insurance and longevity reinsurance contracts is amortized in proportion to gross premiums.
	For group annuity contracts (other than single premium group annuities), acquisition costs are generally deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts in proportion to gross profits. For group corporate-, bank- and trust-owned life insurance contracts, acquisition costs are generally deferred and amortized in proportion to lives insured. For single premium immediate annuities with life contingencies, single premium group annuities, including non-participating group annuity contracts, and single premium structured settlements with life contingencies, all acquisition costs are charged to expense immediately because generally all premiums are received at the inception of the contract. For funding agreement notes contracts, single premium structured settlement contracts without life contingencies, and single premium immediate annuities without life contingencies, acquisition expenses are deferred and amortized over the expected life of the contracts using the interest method. For other group life and disability insurance contracts and guaranteed investment contracts, acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.
	For some products, policyholders can elect to modify product benefits, features, rights or coverages by exchanging a contract for a new contract or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. These transactions are known as internal replacements. If policyholders surrender traditional life insurance policies in exchange for life insurance policies that do not have fixed and guaranteed terms, the Company immediately charges to expense the remaining unamortized DAC on the surrendered policies. For other internal replacement transactions, except those that involve the addition of a nonintegrated contract feature that does not change the existing base contract, the unamortized DAC is immediately charged to expense if the terms of the new policies are not substantially similar to those of the former policies. If the new terms are substantially similar to those of the earlier policies, the DAC is retained with respect to the new policies and amortized over the expected life of the new policies.
Value of Business Acquired	Value of Business Acquired
	As a result of certain acquisitions and the application of purchase accounting, the Company reports a financial asset representing the value of business acquired (“VOBA”). VOBA includes an explicit adjustment to reflect the cost of capital attributable to the acquired insurance contracts. VOBA represents an adjustment to the stated value of inforce insurance contract liabilities to present them at fair value, determined as of the acquisition date. VOBA balances are subject to recoverability testing, in the manner in which they were acquired. The Company has established a VOBA asset primarily for its acquired traditional life insurance products, accident and health products with fixed benefits, deferred annuity contracts, and defined contribution and defined benefit businesses. As of December 31, 2014, the majority of the VOBA balance relates to the 2011 acquisition of the Star and Edison Businesses and the January 2013 acquisition of The Hartford's individual life insurance business. The Company generally amortizes VOBA over the effective life of the acquired contracts in “General and administrative expenses.” For acquired traditional life insurance products and accident and health products with fixed benefits, VOBA is amortized in proportion to estimated gross premiums or in proportion to the face amount of insurance in force, as applicable. For acquired annuity and non-traditional life insurance contracts, VOBA is amortized in proportion to gross profits arising principally from investment margins, mortality and expense margins, and surrender charges, based on historical and anticipated future experience, which is updated periodically. For acquired defined contribution and defined benefit businesses, the majority of VOBA is amortized in proportion to estimated gross profits arising principally from investment spreads and fees in excess of actual expense based upon historical and estimated future experience, which is updated periodically. The effect of changes in total gross profits on unamortized VOBA is reflected in the period such total gross profits are revised. VOBA, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. See Note 8 for additional information regarding VOBA and Note 3 for additional information regarding the acquisition of the Star and Edison Businesses and The Hartford's individual life insurance business.
Separate Account Assets And Liabilities	Separate Account Assets and Liabilities
	Separate account assets are reported at fair value and represent segregated funds that are invested for certain policyholders, pension funds and other customers. The assets consist primarily of equity securities, fixed maturities, real estate-related investments, real estate mortgage loans, short-term investments and derivative instruments. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. See Note 11 for additional information regarding separate account arrangements with contractual guarantees. Separate account liabilities primarily represent the contractholder's account balance in separate account assets and to a lesser extent borrowings of the separate account, and will be equal and offsetting to total separate account assets. The investment income and realized investment gains or losses from separate account assets generally accrue to the policyholders and are not included in the Company's results of operations. Mortality, policy administration and surrender charges assessed against the accounts are included in “Policy charges and fee income.” Asset management fees charged to the accounts are included in “Asset management and service fees.” Seed money that the Company invests in separate accounts is reported in the appropriate general account asset line. Investment income and realized investment gains or losses from seed money invested in separate accounts accrues to the Company and is included in the Company's results of operations.
Other Assets And Other Liabilities	Other Assets and Other Liabilities
	Other assets consist primarily of prepaid pension benefit costs, certain restricted assets, trade receivables, value of business acquired, goodwill and other intangible assets, DSI, the Company's investments in operating joint ventures, which include the Company's previously held indirect investment in China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. (“China Pacific Group”), property and equipment, reinsurance recoverables, and receivables resulting from sales of securities that had not yet settled at the balance sheet date. Other liabilities consist primarily of trade payables, pension and other employee benefit liabilities, derivative liabilities, reinsurance payables, and payables resulting from purchases of securities that had not yet settled at the balance sheet date.
	Property and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is determined using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which generally range from 3 to 40 years.
	As a result of certain acquisitions, the Company recognizes an asset for goodwill representing the excess of cost over the net fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units at the date the goodwill is initially recorded. A reporting unit is an operating segment or a unit one level below the operating segment, if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management at that level. Once goodwill has been assigned to reporting units, it no longer retains its association with a particular acquisition, and all of the activities within a reporting unit, whether acquired or organically grown, are available to support the value of the goodwill.
	The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually as of December 31 and more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. The fundamental goodwill impairment analysis is a two-step test that is performed at the reporting unit level. The first step, used to identify potential impairment, involves comparing each reporting unit's fair value to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, the applicable goodwill is considered not to be impaired. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, there is an indication of a potential impairment and the second step of the test is performed to measure the amount of impairment.
	The second step involves calculating an implied fair value of goodwill for each reporting unit for which the first step indicated impairment. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination, which is the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit, as determined in the first step, over the aggregate fair values of the individual assets, liabilities and identifiable intangibles as if the reporting unit was being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of goodwill in the “pro forma” business combination accounting as described above exceeds the goodwill assigned to the reporting unit, there is no impairment. If the goodwill assigned to a reporting unit exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment charge is recorded in “General and administrative expenses” for the excess. An impairment loss recognized cannot exceed the amount of goodwill assigned to a reporting unit, and the loss establishes a new basis in the goodwill. Subsequent reversal of goodwill impairment losses is not permitted. Management is required to make significant estimates in determining the fair value of a reporting unit including, but not limited to: projected earnings, comparative market multiples, and the risk rate at which future net cash flows are discounted.
	In accordance with accounting guidance, the Company may first perform a qualitative goodwill assessment to determine whether events or circumstances lead to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. Factors such as macroeconomic conditions; industry and market considerations; cost factors and other are used to assess the validity of goodwill. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, the Company determines it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step goodwill impairment test, as described above, is not necessary. If, however, the Company concludes otherwise, then the Company must perform the first step of the two-step impairment test by comparing the reporting unit's fair value with its carrying value including goodwill. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, then the Company must perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to measure the impairment loss, if any.
	See Note 9 for additional information regarding goodwill.
	The Company offers various types of sales inducements to policyholders related to fixed and variable deferred annuity contracts. The Company defers sales inducements and amortizes them over the anticipated life of the policy using the same methodology and assumptions used to amortize DAC. Sales inducements balances are subject to periodic recoverability testing. The Company records amortization of DSI in “Interest credited to policyholders' account balances.” DSI, for applicable products, is adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. See Note 11 for additional information regarding sales inducements.
	The majority of the Company's reinsurance recoverables and payables are associated with the reinsurance arrangements used to effect the Company's acquisition of the retirement businesses of CIGNA and The Hartford's individual life business. The remaining amounts relate to other reinsurance arrangements entered into by the Company. For each of its reinsurance contracts, the Company determines if the contract provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. The Company reviews all contractual features, particularly those that may limit the amount of insurance risk to which the reinsurer is subject or features that delay the timely reimbursement of claims. See Note 13 for additional information about the Company's reinsurance arrangements.
	Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships and mortgage servicing rights and areIdentifiable intangible assets are recorded net of accumulated amortization. The Company tests identifiable intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as of December 31 of each year or whenever events or circumstances suggest that the carrying value of an identifiable intangible asset may exceed the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If this condition exists and the carrying value of an identifiable intangible asset exceeds its fair value, the excess is recognized as an impairment and is recorded as a charge against net income. Measuring intangibles requires the use of estimates. Significant estimates include the projected net cash flow attributable to the intangible asset and the risk rate at which future net cash flows are discounted for purposes of estimating fair value, as applicable. Identifiable intangible assets primarily include customer relationships and mortgage servicing rights. See Note 9 for additional information regarding identifiable intangible assets.
	Investments in operating joint ventures are generally accounted for under the equity method. The carrying value of these investments is written down, or impaired, to fair value when a decline in value is considered to be other-than-temporary. See Note 7 for additional information on investments in operating joint ventures.
Future Policy Benefits	Future Policy Benefits
	The Company's liability for future policy benefits is primarily comprised of the present value of estimated future payments to or on behalf of policyholders, where the timing and amount of payment depends on policyholder mortality or morbidity, less the present value of future net premiums. For individual traditional participating life insurance products, the mortality and interest rate assumptions applied are those used to calculate the policies' guaranteed cash surrender values. For life insurance, other than individual traditional participating life insurance, and annuity and disability products, expected mortality and morbidity are generally based on Company experience, industry data and/or other factors. Interest rate assumptions are based on factors such as market conditions and expected investment returns. Although mortality and morbidity and interest rate assumptions are “locked-in” upon the issuance of new insurance or annuity business with fixed and guaranteed terms, significant changes in experience or assumptions may require the Company to provide for expected future losses on a product by establishing premium deficiency reserves. Premium deficiency reserves are established, if necessary, when the liability for future policy benefits plus the present value of expected future gross premiums are determined to be insufficient to provide for expected future policy benefits and expenses. Premium deficiency reserves do not include a provision for the risk of adverse deviation. In determining if a premium deficiency related to short-duration contracts exists, the Company considers, among other factors, anticipated investment income. Any adjustments to future policy benefit reserves related to net unrealized gains on securities classified as available-for-sale are included in AOCI. See Note 10 for additional information regarding future policy benefits.
	The Company's liability for future policy benefits also includes a liability for unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses. The Company does not establish claim liabilities until a loss has been incurred. However, unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses includes estimates of claims that the Company believes have been incurred but have not yet been reported as of the balance sheet date. The Company's liability for future policy benefits also includes net liabilities for guarantee benefits related to certain nontraditional long-duration life and annuity contracts, which are discussed more fully in Note 11, and deferred profits.
Policyholders Account Balances	Policyholders' Account Balances
	The Company's liability for policyholders' account balances represents the contract value that has accrued to the benefit of the policyholder as of the balance sheet date. This liability is primarily associated with the accumulated account deposits, plus interest credited, less policyholder withdrawals and other charges assessed against the account balance. These policyholders' account balances also include provision for benefits under non-life contingent payout annuities and certain unearned revenues. See Note 10 for additional information regarding policyholders' account balances.
Policyholders Dividends	Policyholders' Dividends
	The Company's liability for policyholders' dividends includes its dividends payable to policyholders and its policyholder dividend obligation associated with the participating policies included in the Closed Block. The dividends payable for participating policies included in the Closed Block are determined at the end of each year for the following year by the Board of Directors of Prudential Insurance based on its statutory results, capital position, ratings, and the emerging experience of the Closed Block. The policyholder dividend obligation represents amounts expected to be paid to Closed Block policyholders as an additional policyholder dividend unless otherwise offset by future Closed Block performance. The policyholder dividend obligation also includes amounts relating to net unrealized gains on securities classified as available-for-sale. For additional information on the policyholder dividend obligation, see Note 12. The dividends payable for policies other than the participating policies included in the Closed Block include dividends payable in accordance with certain group and individual insurance policies.
Contingent Liabilities	Contingent Liabilities
	Amounts related to contingent liabilities are accrued if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and an amount is reasonably estimable. Management evaluates whether there are incremental legal or other costs directly associated with the ultimate resolution of the matter that are reasonably estimable and, if so, they are included in the accrual.
Insurance Revenue and Expense Recognitions	Insurance Revenue and Expense Recognition
	Premiums from individual life products, other than interest-sensitive and variable life contracts, and health insurance and long-term care products are recognized when due. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, any gross premium in excess of the net premium (i.e., the portion of the gross premium required to provide for all expected future benefits and expenses) is generally deferred and recognized into revenue in a constant relationship to insurance in force. Benefits are recorded as an expense when they are incurred. A liability for future policy benefits is recorded when premiums are recognized using the net level premium method.
	Premiums from non-participating group annuities with life contingencies, single premium structured settlements with life contingencies and single premium immediate annuities with life contingencies are recognized when due. When premiums are due over a significantly shorter period than the period over which benefits are provided, any gross premium in excess of the net premium is generally deferred and recognized into revenue in a constant relationship to the amount of expected future benefit payments. Benefits are recorded as an expense when they are incurred. A liability for future policy benefits is recorded when premiums are recognized using the net premium method.
	Certain individual annuity contracts provide the contractholder a guarantee that the benefit received upon death or annuitization will be no less than a minimum prescribed amount. These benefits are accounted for as insurance contracts and are discussed in further detail in Note 11. The Company also provides contracts with certain living benefits which are considered embedded derivatives. These contracts are discussed in further detail in Note 11.
	Amounts received as payment for interest-sensitive or variable group and individual life contracts, deferred fixed or variable annuities, structured settlements and other contracts without life contingencies, and participating group annuities are reported as deposits to “Policyholders' account balances”and/or “Separate account liabilities.” Revenues from these contracts are reflected in “Policy charges and fee income” consisting primarily of fees assessed during the period against the policyholders' account balances for mortality and other benefit charges, policy administration charges and surrender charges. In addition to fees, the Company earns investment income from the investment of deposits in the Company's general account portfolio. Fees assessed that represent compensation to the Company for services to be provided in future periods and certain other fees are generally deferred and amortized into revenue over the life of the related contracts in proportion to estimated gross profits. Benefits and expenses for these products include claims in excess of related account balances, expenses of contract administration, interest credited to policyholders' account balances and amortization of DAC, DSI and VOBA.
	For group life, other than interest-sensitive and variable group life contracts, and disability insurance, premiums are generally recognized over the period to which the premiums relate in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided. Claim and claim adjustment expenses are recognized when incurred.
	Premiums, benefits and expenses are stated net of reinsurance ceded to other companies, except for amounts associated with certain modified coinsurance contracts which are reflected in the Company's financial statements based on the application of the deposit method of accounting.
Other Income	Other Income
	“Other income” includes realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments classified as “trading” such as “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” and “Other trading account assets,” short-term investments that are marked-to-market through other income, and from consolidated entities that follow specialized investment company fair value accounting.
	“Other income” also includes losses of $3.0 billion, $4.1 billion and $1.8 billion for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, primarily related to the remeasurement of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities, as discussed in more detail under “Foreign Currency” below.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency
	Assets and liabilities of foreign operations and subsidiaries reported in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated at the exchange rate in effect at the end of the period. Revenues, benefits and other expenses are translated at the average rate prevailing during the period. The effects of translating the statements of operations and financial position of non-U.S. entities with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar are included, net of related qualifying hedge gains and losses and income taxes, in AOCI. Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign currency transactions are reported in either AOCI or current earnings in “Other income” depending on the nature of the related foreign currency denominated asset or liability.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments
	Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are derived from interest rates, foreign exchange rates, financial indices, values of securities or commodities, credit spreads, market volatility, expected returns, and liquidity. Values can also be affected by changes in estimates and assumptions, including those related to counterparty behavior and non-performance risk used in valuation models. Derivative financial instruments generally used by the Company include swaps, futures, forwards and options and may be exchange-traded or contracted in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market. Derivative positions are carried at fair value, generally by obtaining quoted market prices or through the use of valuation models.
	Derivatives are used to manage the interest rate and currency characteristics of assets or liabilities and to mitigate volatility of expected non-U.S. earnings and net investments in foreign operations resulting from changes in currency exchange rates. Additionally, derivatives may be used to seek to reduce exposure to interest rate, credit, foreign currency and equity risks associated with assets held or expected to be purchased or sold, and liabilities incurred or expected to be incurred. As discussed in detail below and in Note 21, all realized and unrealized changes in fair value of derivatives are recorded in current earnings, with the exception of the effective portion of cash flow hedges and effective hedges of net investments in foreign operations. Cash flows from derivatives are reported in the operating, investing, or financing activities sections in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows based on the nature and purpose of the derivative.
	Derivatives are recorded either as assets, within “Other trading account assets, at fair value” or “Other long-term investments,” or as liabilities, within “Other liabilities,” except for embedded derivatives which are recorded with the associated host contract. The Company nets the fair value of all derivative financial instruments with counterparties for which a master netting arrangement has been executed.
	The Company designates derivatives as either (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or unrecognized firm commitment (“fair value” hedge); (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash flow” hedge); (3) a foreign-currency fair value or cash flow hedge (“foreign currency” hedge); (4) a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation; or (5) a derivative that does not qualify for hedge accounting.
	To qualify for hedge accounting treatment, a derivative must be highly effective in mitigating the designated risk of the hedged item. Effectiveness of the hedge is formally assessed at inception and throughout the life of the hedging relationship. Even if a derivative qualifies for hedge accounting treatment, there may be an element of ineffectiveness of the hedge. Under such circumstances, the ineffective portion is recorded in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.”
	The Company formally documents at inception all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives designated as fair value, cash flow, or foreign currency hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the balance sheet or to specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation are linked to the specific foreign operation.
	When a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value, along with changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability (including losses or gains on firm commitments), are reported on a net basis in the income statement, generally in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” When swaps are used in hedge accounting relationships, periodic settlements are recorded in the same income statement line as the related settlements of the hedged items.
	When a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value are recorded in AOCI until earnings are affected by the variability of cash flows being hedged (e.g., when periodic settlements on a variable-rate asset or liability are recorded in earnings). At that time, the related portion of deferred gains or losses on the derivative instrument is reclassified and reported in the income statement line item associated with the hedged item.
	When a derivative is designated as a foreign currency hedge and is determined to be highly effective, changes in its fair value are recorded either in current period earnings if the hedge transaction is a fair value hedge (e.g., a hedge of a recognized foreign currency asset or liability) or in AOCI if the hedge transaction is a cash flow hedge (e.g., a foreign currency denominated forecasted transaction). When a derivative is used as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, its change in fair value, to the extent effective as a hedge, is recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account within AOCI.
	If it is determined that a derivative no longer qualifies as an effective fair value or cash flow hedge or management removes the hedge designation, the derivative will continue to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, with changes in fair value recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” In this scenario, the hedged asset or liability under a fair value hedge will no longer be adjusted for changes in fair value and the existing basis adjustment is amortized to the income statement line associated with the asset or liability. The component of AOCI related to discontinued cash flow hedges is reclassified to the income statement line associated with the hedged cash flows consistent with the earnings impact of the original hedged cash flows.
	When hedge accounting is discontinued because the hedged item no longer meets the definition of a firm commitment, or because it is probable that the forecasted transaction will not occur by the end of the specified time period, the derivative will continue to be carried on the balance sheet at its fair value, with changes in fair value recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Any asset or liability that was recorded pursuant to recognition of the firm commitment is removed from the balance sheet and recognized currently in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” Gains and losses that were in AOCI pursuant to the hedge of a forecasted transaction are recognized immediately in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.”
	If a derivative does not qualify for hedge accounting, all changes in its fair value, including net receipts and payments, are included in “Realized investment gains (losses), net” without considering changes in the fair value of the economically associated assets or liabilities.
	The Company is a party to financial instruments that contain derivative instruments that are “embedded” in the financial instruments. At inception, the Company assesses whether the economic characteristics of the embedded instrument are clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the remaining component of the financial instrument (i.e., the host contract) and whether a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded instrument would meet the definition of a derivative instrument. When it is determined that (1) the embedded instrument possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and (2) a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded instrument qualifies as an embedded derivative that is separated from the host contract, carried at fair value, and changes in its fair value are included in “Realized investment gains (losses), net.” For certain financial instruments that contain an embedded derivative that otherwise would need to be bifurcated and reported at fair value, the Company may elect to classify the entire instrument as a trading account asset and report it within “Other trading account assets, at fair value.”
Short-Term And Long-Term Debt	Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
	Liabilities for short-term and long-term debt are primarily carried at an amount equal to unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized discount or premium. Original-issue discount or premium and debt-issue costs are recognized as a component of interest expense over the period the debt is expected to be outstanding, using the interest method of amortization. Short-term debt is debt coming due in the next twelve months, including that portion of debt otherwise classified as long-term. The short-term debt caption may exclude short-term debt items the Company intends to refinance on a long-term basis in the near term. See Note 14 for additional information regarding short-term and long-term debt.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The Company and its includible domestic subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return that includes both life insurance companies and non-life insurance companies. Non-includible domestic subsidiaries file separate individual corporate tax returns. Subsidiaries operating outside the U.S. are taxed, and income tax expense is recorded, based on applicable foreign statutes. See Note 19 for a discussion of certain non-U.S. jurisdictions for which the Company assumes repatriation of earnings to the U.S.
	Deferred income taxes are recognized, based on enacted rates, when assets and liabilities have different values for financial statement and tax reporting purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce a deferred tax asset to the amount expected to be realized.
	Items required by tax regulations to be included in the tax return may differ from the items reflected in the financial statements. As a result, the effective tax rate reflected in the financial statements may be different than the actual rate applied on the tax return. Some of these differences are permanent such as expenses that are not deductible in the Company's tax return, and some differences are temporary, reversing over time, such as valuation of insurance reserves. Temporary differences create deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in future years for which the Company has already recorded the tax benefit in the Company's income statement. Deferred tax liabilities generally represent tax expense recognized in the Company's financial statements for which payment has been deferred, or expenditures for which the Company has already taken a deduction in the Company's tax return but have not yet been recognized in the Company's financial statements.
	The application of U.S. GAAP requires the Company to evaluate the recoverability of the Company's deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if necessary to reduce the Company's deferred tax assets to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized. Considerable judgment is required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary, and if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance the Company may consider many factors, including: (1) the nature of the deferred tax assets and liabilities; (2) whether they are ordinary or capital; (3) in which tax jurisdictions they were generated and the timing of their reversal; (4) taxable income in prior carryback years as well as projected taxable earnings exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards; (5) the length of time that carryovers can be utilized in the various taxing jurisdictions; (6) any unique tax rules that would impact the utilization of the deferred tax assets; and (7) any tax planning strategies that the Company would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances, will be realized.
	U.S. GAAP prescribes a comprehensive model for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that a company has taken or expects to take on tax returns. The application of this guidance is a two-step process, the first step being recognition. The Company determines whether it is more likely than not, based on the technical merits, that the tax position will be sustained upon examination. If a tax position does not meet the more likely than not recognition threshold, the benefit of that position is not recognized in the financial statements. The second step is measurement. The Company measures the tax position as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate resolution with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. This measurement considers the amounts and probabilities of the outcomes that could be realized upon ultimate settlement using the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date.
	The Company's liability for income taxes includes the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties which relate to tax years still subject to review by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) or other taxing jurisdictions. Audit periods remain open for review until the statute of limitations has passed. Generally, for tax years which produce net operating losses, capital losses or tax credit carryforwards (“tax attributes”), the statute of limitations does not close, to the extent of these tax attributes, until the expiration of the statute of limitations for the tax year in which they are fully utilized. The completion of review or the expiration of the statute of limitations for a given audit period could result in an adjustment to the liability for income taxes. The Company classifies all interest and penalties related to tax uncertainties as income tax expense. See Note 19 for additional information regarding income taxes.
Impact of Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
	In December 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued updated guidance establishing a single definition of a public entity for use in financial accounting and reporting guidance. This new guidance is effective for all current and future reporting periods and did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued new guidance regarding derivatives. The guidance permits the Fed Funds Effective Swap Rate (or Overnight Index Swap Rate) to be used as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting in addition to the United States Treasury rate and London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). The guidance also removes the restriction on using different benchmark rates for similar hedges. The guidance is effective for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after July 17, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits when net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards exist. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In June 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance clarifying the characteristics of an investment company and requiring new disclosures. Under the guidance, all entities regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940 automatically qualify as investment companies, while all other entities need to consider both the fundamental and typical characteristics of an investment company in determining whether they qualify as investment companies. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the recognition in net income of the cumulative translation adjustment upon the sale or loss of control of a business or group of assets residing in a foreign subsidiary, or a loss of control of a foreign investment. This guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2013, and was applied prospectively. The amendments require an entity that ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity to release any related cumulative translation adjustment into net income only if the sale or transfer results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity in which the subsidiary or group of assets had resided. For an equity method investment that is a foreign entity, the partial sale guidance still applies. As such, a pro rata portion of the cumulative translation adjustment should be released into net income upon a partial sale of such an equity method investment. Adoption of the guidance did not have a significant effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the presentation of comprehensive income. Under the guidance, an entity is required to separately present information about significant items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component as well as changes in accumulated other comprehensive income balances by component in either the financial statements or the notes to the financial statements. The guidance does not change the items that are reported in other comprehensive income, does not change when an item of other comprehensive income must be reclassified to net income, and does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income. The guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began after December 15, 2012, and was applied prospectively. The disclosures required by this guidance are included in Note 7.
	In December 2011 and January 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding the disclosure of recognized derivative instruments (including bifurcated embedded derivatives), repurchase agreements and securities borrowing/lending transactions that are offset in the statement of financial position or are subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement (irrespective of whether they are offset in the statement of financial position). This new guidance requires an entity to disclose information on both a gross and net basis about instruments and transactions within the scope of this guidance. This new guidance became effective for interim or annual reporting periods that began on or after January 1, 2013, and was applied retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. The disclosures required by this guidance are included in Note 14.
Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	Future Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements
	In February 2015, the FASB issued updated guidance that changes the rules regarding consolidation.  The pronouncement eliminates specialized guidance for limited partnerships and similar legal entities, and removes the indefinite deferral for certain investment funds. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
	In January 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance regarding investments in flow-through limited liability entities that manage or invest in affordable housing projects that qualify for the low-income housing tax credit. Under the guidance, an entity is permitted to make an accounting policy election to amortize the initial cost of its investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognize the net investment performance in the statement of operations as a component of income tax expense (benefit) if certain conditions are met. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, and should be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In January 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance for troubled debt restructurings clarifying when an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and when a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. This guidance can be elected for prospective adoption or by using a modified retrospective transition method. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance that changes the criteria for reporting discontinued operations and introduces new disclosures. The new guidance is effective prospectively to new disposals and new classifications of disposal groups as held for sale that occur within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted for new disposals or new classifications as held for sale that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued or available for issuance. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or financial statement disclosures.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance on accounting for revenue recognition. The guidance is based on the core principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The guidance also requires additional disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from cost incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. Revenue recognition for insurance contracts is explicitly scoped out of the guidance. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2016, and must be applied using one of two retrospective application methods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued updated guidance for measuring the financial assets and the financial liabilities of a consolidated collateralized financing entity. Under the guidance, an entity within scope is permitted to measure both the financial assets and financial liabilities of a consolidated collateralized financing entity based on either the fair value of the financial assets or the financial liabilities, whichever is more observable. If elected, the guidance will eliminate the measurement difference that exists when both are measured at fair value. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption will be permitted. This guidance can be elected for modified retrospective or full retrospective adoption. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the guidance on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations and financial statement disclosures.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued guidance requiring that mortgage loans be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if certain conditions are met. Upon foreclosure, the separate other receivable should be measured based on the amount of the loan balance (principal and interest) expected to be recovered from the guarantor. The new guidance is effective for annual periods and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. This guidance can be adopted using either a prospective transition method or a modified retrospective transition method. This guidance is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations, or financial statement disclosures.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Acquisitions And Dispositions [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Businesses, Including Charges upon Disposition				2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Real estate investments sold or held for sale(1)			$	18	$	9	$	22
	Global commodities business				1		1		0
	Other				-1		0		1
		Income from discontinued operations before income taxes			18		10		23
			Income tax expense		6		3		8
		Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes		$	12	$	7	$	15
	Reflects the income from discontinued real estate investments.
Total assets and total liabilities related to discontinued businesses included in Statements of Financial Position				31-Dec-14		31-Dec-13
					(in millions)
	Total assets			$	5	$	15
	Total liabilities			$	5	$	7

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities, Available-for-sale Securities						31-Dec-14
																		Other-than-
									Gross			Gross						temporary
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair			Impairments
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value			in AOCI(3)
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S.
		government authorities and agencies				$	15,807		$	4,321		$	5		$	20,123		$	0
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions					5,720			814			3			6,531			0
	Foreign government bonds						69,894			11,164			117			80,941			-1
	Corporate securities						143,631			17,799			1,054			160,376			-6
	Asset-backed securities(1)						10,966			353			134			11,185			-592
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,486			430			39			13,877			-1
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						5,612			448			3			6,057			-5
			Total fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	265,116		$	35,329		$	1,355		$	299,090		$	-605
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					$	6,921		$	3,023		$	83		$	9,861
	(1)       Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
	(2)       Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	(3)       Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $954 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
						December 31, 2013(5)
																		Other-than-
									Gross			Gross						temporary
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair			Impairments
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value			in AOCI(3)
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S.
		government authorities and agencies				$	13,754		$	1,742		$	96		$	15,400		$	0
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions					3,598			274			137			3,735			0
	Foreign government bonds						75,595			7,459			266			82,788			1
	Corporate securities						145,091			12,095			3,408			153,778			-4
	Asset-backed securities(1)						10,370			203			315			10,258			-755
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,633			403			163			13,873			0
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						6,686			390			42			7,034			-7
			Total fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	268,727		$	22,566		$	4,427		$	286,866		$	-765
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					$	7,003		$	2,931		$	24		$	9,910
	Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans, and other asset types.
	Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $875 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
	Prior period's amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
Fixed Maturities, Held-to-maturity Securities						31-Dec-14
									Gross			Gross
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
	Foreign government bonds					$	821		$	184		$	0		$	1,005
	Corporate securities(4)						713			68			1			780
	Asset-backed securities(1)						0			0			0			0
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						78			7			0			85
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						963			69			0			1,032
		Total fixed maturities, held-to-maturity(4)				$	2,575		$	328		$	1		$	2,902
	(1)       Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
	(2)       Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	(3)       Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $954 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
	(4)       Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
						December 31, 2013(5)
									Gross			Gross
						Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair
						Cost			Gains			Losses			Value
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
	Foreign government bonds					$	938		$	117		$	0		$	1,055
	Corporate securities(4)						904			50			24			930
	Asset-backed securities(1)						1			0			0			1
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						166			18			0			184
	Residential mortgage-backed securities(2)						1,303			80			0			1,383
		Total fixed maturities, held-to-maturity(4)				$	3,312		$	265		$	24		$	3,553
	Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans, and other asset types.
	Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $875 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
	Excludes notes with amortized cost of $2,400 million (fair value, $2,461 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
	Prior period's amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date						Available-for-Sale						Held-to-Maturity
						Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
						Cost			Value			Cost			Value
						(in millions)
	Due in one year or less					$	8,596		$	9,176		$	0		$	0
	Due after one year through five years						47,442			52,944			46			50
	Due after five years through ten years						58,047			64,974			199			211
	Due after ten years(1)						120,967			140,877			1,289			1,524
	Asset-backed securities						10,966			11,185			0			0
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities						13,486			13,877			78			85
	Residential mortgage-backed securities						5,612			6,057			963			1,032
		Total				$	265,116		$	299,090		$	2,575		$	2,902
	Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
Sources of Fixed Maturity Proceeds, Related Investment Gains (Losses), and Losses on Impairments of Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities						2014			2013			2012
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale
			Proceeds from sales			$	28,359		$	37,248		$	15,919
			Proceeds from maturities/repayments				21,040			23,573			21,897
			Gross investment gains from sales, prepayments, and maturities				1,664			1,571			659
			Gross investment losses from sales and maturities				-414			-1,465			-359
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity
			Gross investment gains from prepayments			$	0		$	0		$	0
			Proceeds from maturities/repayments				415			583			530
	Equity securities, available-for-sale
			Proceeds from sales			$	4,993		$	4,235		$	4,189
			Gross investment gains from sales				676			554			422
			Gross investment losses from sales				-132			-94			-273
	Fixed maturity and equity security impairments
			Net writedowns for other-than-temporary impairment losses on
				fixed maturities recognized in earnings(1)		$	-56		$	-200		$	-337
			Writedowns for impairments on equity securities				-32			-15			-125
	Excludes the portion of other-than-temporary impairments recorded in “Other comprehensive income (loss),” representing any difference between the fair value of the impaired debt security and the net present value of its projected future cash flows at the time of impairment.
Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings on Fixed Maturity Securities Held by the Company for which a Portion of the OTTI Loss was Recognized in OCI					Year Ended December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of period				$	968		$	1,166
	Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities which matured, paid down,
		prepaid or were sold during the period				-230			-314
	Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities impaired to fair value during
		the period(1)				-6			-4
	Credit loss impairment recognized in the current period on securities not previously impaired					16			9
	Additional credit loss impairments recognized in the current period on securities
		previously impaired				6			74
	Increases due to the passage of time on previously recorded credit losses					42			52
	Accretion of credit loss impairments previously recognized due to an increase in
		cash flows expected to be collected				-15			-15
	Balance, end of period				$	781		$	968
	(1)        Represents circumstances where the Company determined in the current period that it intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the security's amortized cost.
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure					31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
					Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
					Cost			Value			Cost			Value
					(in millions)
	Short-term investments and cash equivalents				$	196		$	196		$	697		$	697
	Fixed maturities:
		Corporate securities				11,922			12,439			12,109			12,616
		Commercial mortgage-backed securities				2,505			2,546			2,417			2,441
		Residential mortgage-backed securities(1)				1,640			1,676			1,857			1,830
		Asset-backed securities(2)				1,180			1,198			1,096			1,107
		Foreign government bonds				621			650			579			596
		U.S. government authorities and agencies and obligations of U.S. states				303			372			303			341
	Total fixed maturities					18,171			18,881			18,361			18,931
	Equity securities					896			1,186			913			1,199
	Total trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities				$	19,263		$	20,263		$	19,971		$	20,827
	Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.
	Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
Other Trading Account Assets Disclosure						31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
						Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
						Cost			Value			Cost			Value
					(in millions)
	Short-term investments and cash equivalents					$	27		$	27		$	105		$	106
	Fixed maturities						8,306			8,282			4,653			4,723
	Equity securities						992			1,105			1,051			1,177
	Other						7			11			3			7
		Subtotal				$	9,332			9,425		$	5,812			6,013
	Derivative instruments									1,449						440
	Total other trading account assets								$	10,874					$	6,453
Investments Securities Disclosure						31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
						Amortized			Fair			Amortized			Fair
						Cost			Value			Cost			Value
	Investments in Japanese government and government				(in millions)
			agency securities:
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale					$	52,703		$	60,379		$	59,775		$	65,389
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity						801			981			916			1,032
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities						457			470			451			458
	Other trading account assets						36			36			38			39
	Short-term investments						0			0			0			0
	Cash equivalents						0			0			107			107
		Total				$	53,997		$	61,866		$	61,287		$	67,025
	Investments in South Korean government and government
			agency securities:
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale					$	6,927		$	8,438		$	6,672		$	7,277
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity						0			0			0			0
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities						49			50			61			61
	Other trading account assets						0			0			0			0
	Short-term investments						0			0			0			0
	Cash equivalents						0			0			0			0
			Total			$	6,976		$	8,488		$	6,733		$	7,338
Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans						31-Dec-14							31-Dec-13
						Amount			% of				Amount			% of
						(in millions)			Total				(in millions)			Total
	Commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by property type:
	Office					$	9,612			21.5	%		$	7,762			19.9	%
	Retail						8,765			19.6				8,698			22.3
	Apartments/Multi-Family						10,369			23.2				7,492			19.2
	Industrial						7,628			16.9				7,390			18.9
	Hospitality						2,270			5.1				2,050			5.2
	Other						3,659			8.2				3,464			8.9
	Total commercial mortgage loans						42,303			94.5				36,856			94.4
	Agricultural property loans						2,445			5.5				2,183			5.6
	Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by property type						44,748			100	%			39,039			100	%
	Valuation allowance						-105							-195
	Total net commercial mortgage and agricultural loans by property type						44,643							38,844
	Other loans
	Uncollateralized loans						1,092							1,306
	Residential property loans						392							544
	Other collateralized loans						319							335
	Total other loans						1,803							2,185
	Valuation allowance						-14							-21
	Total net other loans						1,789							2,164
	Total commercial mortgage and other loans(1)					$	46,432						$	41,008
	Includes loans held at fair value.
Allowance for Losses						Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
						Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
						Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
						(in millions)
	Allowance for losses, beginning of year, 2013					$	209		$	20		$	11		$	12		$	17		$	269
	Addition to / (release of) allowance of losses						12			-7			-3			-9			-2			-9
	Charge-offs, net of recoveries						-33			-6			0			0			0			-39
	Change in foreign exchange						0			0			-2			0			-3			-5
			Total Ending Balance, 2013			$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
						Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
						Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
						Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
						(in millions)
	Allowance for losses, beginning of year, 2014					$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
	Addition to / (release of) allowance of losses						-77			-6			-1			-1			-2			-87
	Charge-offs, net of recoveries						-7			0			0			-2			0			-9
	Change in foreign exchange						0			0			0			0			-1			-1
			Total Ending Balance, 2014			$	104		$	1		$	5		$	0		$	9		$	119
Allowance for Credit Losses and Recorded Investment in Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans						31-Dec-14
						Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
						Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
						Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
	Allowance for Credit Losses:					(in millions)
	Individually evaluated for impairment					$	8		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	8
	Collectively evaluated for impairment						96			1			5			0			9			111
	Loans acquired with
		deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
			Total ending balance			$	104		$	1		$	5		$	0		$	9		$	119
	Recorded Investment:(1)
	Gross of reserves:
		individually evaluated for impairment				$	336		$	4		$	0		$	1		$	2		$	343
	Gross of reserves:
		collectively evaluated for impairment					41,967			2,441			392			318			1,090			46,208
	Gross of reserves: loans
		acquired with deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
			Total ending balance, gross of reserves			$	42,303		$	2,445		$	392		$	319		$	1,092		$	46,551
	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
						31-Dec-13
						Commercial			Agricultural			Residential			Other
						Mortgage			Property			Property			Collateralized			Uncollateralized
						Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Loans			Total
	Allowance for Credit Losses:					(in millions)
	Individually evaluated for impairment					$	16		$	0		$	0		$	3		$	0		$	19
	Collectively evaluated for impairment						172			7			6			0			12			197
	Loans acquired with
		deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
			Total ending balance			$	188		$	7		$	6		$	3		$	12		$	216
	Recorded Investment:(1)
	Gross of reserves:
		individually evaluated for impairment				$	429		$	5		$	0		$	7		$	2		$	443
	Gross of reserves:
		collectively evaluated for impairment					36,427			2,178			544			328			1,304			40,781
	Gross of reserves: loans
		acquired with deteriorated credit quality					0			0			0			0			0			0
			Total ending balance, gross of reserves			$	36,856		$	2,183		$	544		$	335		$	1,306		$	41,224
	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
Impaired Financing Receivables						31-Dec-14
																Average
																Recorded
									Unpaid							Investment			Interest
						Recorded			Principal			Related				Before			Income
						Investment(1)			Balance			Allowance				Allowance(2)			Recognized(3)
						(in millions)
	With no related allowance recorded:
	Commercial mortgage loans					$	8		$	8		$	0		$	16		$	1
	Agricultural property loans						4			4			0			4			0
	Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Uncollateralized loans						0			1			0			0			0
	Total with no related allowance					$	12		$	13		$	0		$	20		$	1
	With an allowance recorded:
	Commercial mortgage loans					$	76		$	76		$	8		$	82		$	6
	Agricultural property loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			3			1
	Uncollateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Total with related allowance					$	76		$	76		$	8		$	85		$	7
	Total:
		Commercial mortgage loans				$	84		$	84		$	8		$	98		$	7
		Agricultural property loans					4			4			0			4			0
		Residential property loans					0			0			0			0			0
		Other collateralized loans					0			0			0			3			1
		Uncollateralized loans					0			1			0			0			0
	Total					$	88		$	89		$	8		$	105		$	8
	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
	Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances.
	The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairment occurred.
						31-Dec-13
																Average
																Recorded
									Unpaid							Investment			Interest
						Recorded			Principal			Related				Before			Income
						Investment(1)			Balance			Allowance				Allowance(2)			Recognized(3)
						(in millions)
	With no related allowance recorded:
	Commercial mortgage loans					$	33		$	33		$	0		$	30		$	1
	Agricultural property loans						5			5			0			2			0
	Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Uncollateralized loans						0			2			0			0			0
	Total with no related allowance					$	38		$	40		$	0		$	32		$	1
	With an allowance recorded:
	Commercial mortgage loans					$	54		$	55		$	16		$	121		$	1
	Agricultural property loans						0			0			0			10			0
	Residential property loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Other collateralized loans						5			5			3			8			3
	Uncollateralized loans						0			0			0			0			0
	Total with related allowance					$	59		$	60		$	19		$	139		$	4
	Total:
		Commercial mortgage loans				$	87		$	88		$	16		$	151		$	2
		Agricultural property loans					5			5			0			12			0
		Residential property loans					0			0			0			0			0
		Other collateralized loans					5			5			3			8			3
		Uncollateralized loans					0			2			0			0			0
	Total					$	97		$	100		$	19		$	171		$	5
	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
	Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances.
	The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairments occurred.
Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators	Commercial mortgage loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	22,557		$	637		$	207		$	23,401
	60%-69.99%						12,563			500			237			13,300
	70%-79.99%						4,354			664			21			5,039
	Greater than 80%						234			127			202			563
	Total commercial mortgage loans					$	39,708		$	1,928		$	667		$	42,303
	Agricultural property loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	2,152		$	140		$	2		$	2,294
	60%-69.99%						151			0			0			151
	70%-79.99%						0			0			0			0
	Greater than 80%						0			0			0			0
	Total agricultural property loans					$	2,303		$	140		$	2		$	2,445
	Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2014
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	24,709		$	777		$	209		$	25,695
	60%-69.99%						12,714			500			237			13,451
	70%-79.99%						4,354			664			21			5,039
	Greater than 80%						234			127			202			563
		Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans				$	42,011		$	2,068		$	669		$	44,748
	Commercial mortgage loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	19,089		$	597		$	179		$	19,865
	60%-69.99%						11,101			379			95			11,575
	70%-79.99%						4,005			422			216			4,643
	Greater than 80%						325			173			275			773
	Total commercial mortgage loans					$	34,520		$	1,571		$	765		$	36,856
	Agricultural property loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	2,023		$	137		$	0		$	2,160
	60%-69.99%						23			0			0			23
	70%-79.99%						0			0			0			0
	Greater than 80%						0			0			0			0
	Total agricultural property loans					$	2,046		$	137		$	0		$	2,183
	Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans
						Debt Service Coverage Ratio—December 31, 2013
						Greater than 1.2X			1.0X to <1.2X			Less than 1.0X			Total
	Loan-to-Value Ratio					(in millions)
	0%-59.99%					$	21,112		$	734		$	179		$	22,025
	60%-69.99%						11,124			379			95			11,598
	70%-79.99%						4,005			422			216			4,643
	Greater than 80%						325			173			275			773
		Total commercial and agricultural mortgage loans				$	36,566		$	1,708		$	765		$	39,039
Aging of Past Due Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans and Nonaccrual Status							31-Dec-14
																								Total
										30-59			60-89			Greater			Greater					Commercial
										Days			Days			Than 90			Than 90			Total		Mortgage		Non
										Past			Past			Days -			Days - Not			Past		and Other		Accrual
							Current			Due			Due			Accruing			Accruing			Due		Loans		Status
							(in millions)
	Commercial mortgage loans						$	42,239		$	62		$	0		$	0		$	2		$	64	$	42,303	$	101
	Agricultural property loans							2,443			0			1			0			1			2		2,445		1
	Residential property loans							375			7			2			0			8			17		392		8
	Other collateralized loans							319			0			0			0			0			0		319		0
	Uncollateralized loans							1,092			0			0			0			0			0		1,092		0
				Total			$	46,468		$	69		$	3		$	0		$	11		$	83	$	46,551	$	110
							31-Dec-13
																								Total
										30-59			60-89			Greater			Greater					Commercial
										Days			Days			Than 90			Than 90			Total		Mortgage		Non
										Past			Past			Days -			Days - Not			Past		and Other		Accrual
							Current			Due			Due			Accruing			Accruing			Due		Loans		Status
							(in millions)
	Commercial mortgage loans						$	36,821		$	16		$	0		$	0		$	19		$	35	$	36,856	$	154
	Agricultural property loans							2,182			0			0			0			1			1		2,183		2
	Residential property loans							520			11			3			0			10			24		544		10
	Other collateralized loans							334			0			0			0			1			1		335		5
	Uncollateralized loans							1,306			0			0			0			0			0		1,306		2
				Total			$	41,163		$	27		$	3		$	0		$	31		$	61	$	41,224	$	173
Schedule of Other Long Term Investments						2014			2013
						(in millions)
	Joint ventures and limited partnerships:
			Real estate-related			$	1,018		$	1,104
			Non-real estate-related				6,527			6,141
		Total joint ventures and limited partnerships					7,545			7,245
	Real estate held through direct ownership						2,235			2,051
	Other						1,141			1,032
			Total other long-term investments			$	10,921		$	10,328
Net Investment Income				2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale			$	10,558		$	10,541		$	9,800
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity				185			125			135
	Equity securities, available-for-sale				354			337			332
	Trading account assets				1,074			963			890
	Commercial mortgage and other loans				2,103			1,985			2,014
	Policy loans				632			611			597
	Short-term investments and cash equivalents				38			40			46
	Other long-term investments				1,050			710			320
		Gross investment income			15,994			15,312			14,134
	Less: investment expenses				-738			-583			-473
		Net investment income		$	15,256		$	14,729		$	13,661
Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments						2014			2013			2012
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturities					$	1,194		$	-93		$	-37
	Equity securities						512			444			24
	Commercial mortgage and other loans						110			79			94
	Investment real estate						-5			2			-20
	Joint ventures and limited partnerships						-15			34			-2
	Derivatives(1)						-182			-5,688			-1,500
	Other						22			16			0
		Realized investment gains (losses), net				$	1,636		$	-5,206		$	-1,441
	Includes embedded derivatives as well as the offset of hedged items in qualifying effective hedge relationships prior to maturity or termination.
Unrealized Gains and (Losses) on Investments						2014			2013			2012
						(in millions)
	Fixed maturity securities on which an OTTI loss has been recognized					$	349		$	110		$	-194
	Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale - all other						33,625			18,029			23,876
	Equity securities, available-for-sale						2,940			2,907			1,518
	Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges(1)						206			-446			-257
	Other investments(2)						-7			4			14
	Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments					$	37,113		$	20,604		$	24,957
	See Note 21 for more information on cash flow hedges.
	As of December 31, 2014, includes $6 million of net unrealized losses on held-to-maturity securities that were previously transferred from available-for-sale. Also includes net unrealized gains on certain joint ventures that are strategic in nature and are included in “Other assets.”
Duration Of Gross Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities [Text Block]					2014
					Less than twelve months						Twelve months or more						Total
					Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities(1)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
		U.S. government authorities and agencies			$	2,145		$	5		$	10		$	0		$	2,155		$	5
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions				105			1			89			2			194			3
	Foreign government bonds					839			26			1,052			91			1,891			117
	Corporate securities					11,326			401			13,346			654			24,672			1,055
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					1,299			6			1,746			33			3,045			39
	Asset-backed securities					3,417			16			3,229			118			6,646			134
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					35			0			194			3			229			3
			Total		$	19,166		$	455		$	19,666		$	901		$	38,832		$	1,356
	Equity securities, available-for-sale				$	1,670		$	82		$	9		$	1		$	1,679		$	83
	Includes $91 million of fair value and $1 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2014, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI.
					2013(2)
					Less than twelve months						Twelve months or more						Total
					Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value			Gross Unrealized Losses
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities(1)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
		U.S. government authorities and agencies			$	3,913		$	95		$	6		$	1		$	3,919		$	96
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political
		subdivisions				1,187			129			43			8			1,230			137
	Foreign government bonds					3,260			211			438			55			3,698			266
	Corporate securities					29,574			1,618			14,094			1,814			43,668			3,432
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					4,267			128			605			35			4,872			163
	Asset-backed securities					2,995			42			2,511			273			5,506			315
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					1,602			34			284			8			1,886			42
			Total		$	46,798		$	2,257		$	17,981		$	2,194		$	64,779		$	4,451
	Equity securities, available-for-sale				$	586		$	24		$	1		$	0		$	587		$	24
	Includes $210 million of fair value and $24 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2013, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI.
	Prior period's amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
Securities Pledged					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities				$	15,338		$	14,648
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities					391			606
	Other trading account assets					231			105
	Separate account assets					2,861			3,488
	Equity securities					512			174
	Total securities pledged				$	19,333		$	19,021
Equity Method Balance Sheet [Text Block]			At December 31,
			2014			2013
			(in millions)
	STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
	Total assets(1)		$	50,602		$	51,588
	Total liabilities(2)		$	13,152		$	10,868
	Partners' capital			37,450			40,720
	Total liabilities and partners' capital		$	50,602		$	51,588
	Total liabilities and partners' capital included above		$	4,599		$	3,765
	Equity in limited partnership interests not included above			42			350
	Carrying value		$	4,641		$	4,115
	Assets consist primarily of investments in real estate, investments in securities and other miscellaneous assets.
	Liabilities consist primarily of third party-borrowed funds, securities repurchase agreements and other miscellaneous liabilities.
Equity Method Income Statement [Text Block]					Years ended December 31,
					2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
	STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
	Total revenue(1)				$	5,632		$	4,013		$	4,556
	Total expenses(2)					-1,654			-943			-1,573
			Net earnings (losses)		$	3,978		$	3,070		$	2,983
	Equity in net earnings (losses) included above				$	522		$	255		$	188
	Equity in net earnings (losses) of limited partnership interests not included above					72			77			34
			Total equity in net earnings (losses)		$	594		$	332		$	222
	Revenue consists of income from investments in real estate, investments in securities and other income.
	Expenses consist primarily of interest expense, management fees, salary expenses and other expenses.

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]
Schedule of Qualified Special Purpose Entities and Variable Interest Entities			Consolidated VIEs for Which the Company is the Investment Manager				Other Consolidated VIEs
			December 31,				December 31,
			2014		2013		2014		2013
			(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale		$	44	$	68	$	104	$	108
	Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			0		0		763		871
	Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities			0		0		11		11
	Other trading account assets			6,943		3,832		0		0
	Commercial mortgage and other loans			13		23		300		300
	Other long-term investments			0		0		159		87
	Cash and cash equivalents			623		566		0		-3
	Accrued investment income			39		19		3		4
	Other assets			166		132		0		0
		Total assets of consolidated VIEs	$	7,828	$	4,640	$	1,340	$	1,378
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs		$	6,058	$	3,302	$	0	$	0
	Other liabilities			674		631		1		1
		Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	$	6,732	$	3,933	$	1	$	1

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co1

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule Of Deferred Acquisition Costs [Table Text Block]	The balances of and changes in deferred policy acquisition costs as of and for the years ended December 31, are as follows:
			2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of year		$	16,512	$	14,100	$	12,517
		Capitalization of commissions, sales and issue expenses		2,694		2,902		3,565
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		629		328		328
		Amortization - All other		-2,602		-568		-1,832
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		-697		492		-168
		Foreign currency translation and other		-565		-742		-310
	Balance, end of year		$	15,971	$	16,512	$	14,100

Recovered_Sheet1

Investments in Operating Joint Ventures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]		2014		2013		2012
		(in millions)
	Investment in operating joint ventures	$	325	$	361	$	393
	Dividends received from operating joint ventures	$	27	$	31	$	41
	After-tax equity earnings of operating joint ventures(1)	$	16	$	59	$	60
	Includes gains associated with sales of the Company's previous investment, through a consortium, in China Pacific Group, for which the Company's remaining shares were sold in January, 2013. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized pre-tax gains of $66 million and $60 million, respectively, from sales of this investment.

Valuation_of_Business_Acquired

Valuation of Business Acquired (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits [Abstract]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Table Text Block]					2014(1)			2013			2012
						(in millions)
	Balance, beginning of year				$	3,675		$	3,248		$	3,845
		Acquisitions				7			1,370			0
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups				-175			59			-31
		Amortization - All other				-420			-509			-520
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses				-89			-55			90
		Interest(2)				95			105			62
		Foreign currency translation				-257			-543			-198
	Balance, end of year				$	2,836		$	3,675		$	3,248
	The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.
	The interest accrual rates vary by product. The interest rates for 2014 were 6.40%, 6.10%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, 3.00% to 6.17%, and 4.07% to 5.51% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The interest rates for 2013 were 6.40%, 6.14%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, and 3.00% to 6.17% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, and The Hartford, respectively. The interest rates for 2012 were 6.40%, 6.18%, 1.28% to 2.87%, and 2.60% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, and Aoba Life, respectively.
Expected Amortization Expense Of Ending Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Table Text Block]			2015			2016			2017			2018		2019
			(in millions)
	Estimated future VOBA amortization		$	315		$	284		$	252		$	227	$	210

Recovered_Sheet2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]				Asset Management		Retirement		International Insurance		Total
				(in millions)
	Balance at December 31, 2011:
		Gross Goodwill		$	238	$	444	$	206	$	888
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			238		444		206		888
		2012 Activity:
			Other(1)		0		0		-15		-15
	Balance at December 31, 2012:
		Gross Goodwill			238		444		191		873
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			238		444		191		873
		2013 Activity:
			Other(1)		2		0		-36		-34
	Balance at December 31, 2013:
		Gross Goodwill			240		444		155		839
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill			240		444		155		839
		2014 Activity:
			Acquisitions		0		0		18		18
			Other(1)		-5		0		-21		-26
	Balance at December 31, 2014:
		Gross Goodwill			235		444		152		831
		Accumulated Impairment Losses			0		0		0		0
		Net Goodwill		$	235	$	444	$	152	$	831
	(1) Other represents foreign currency translation and purchase price adjustments.
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]				2014								2013
				Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount		Gross Carrying Amount			Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount
					(in millions)
	Subject to amortization:
		Mortgage servicing rights		$	462	$	-265	$	197	$	420		$	-231	$	189
		Customer relationships			275		-191		84		285			-188		97
		Other			42		-32		10		43			-29		14
	Not subject to amortization				3		N/A		3		3			N/A		3
			Total					$	294						$	303

Policyholders_Liabilities_Tabl

Policyholders' Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Liability For Policy And Contract Claims [Abstract]
Schedule Of Policyholders Account Balances [Text Block]	Policyholders' Account Balances
			Policyholders' account balances at December 31 for the years indicated are as follows:
				2014		2013
				(in millions)
	Individual annuities			$	37,718	$	35,947
	Group annuities				27,200		27,294
	Guaranteed investment contracts and guaranteed interest accounts				14,428		14,898
	Funding agreements				4,691		4,370
	Interest-sensitive life contracts				30,406		32,136
	Dividend accumulation and other				21,707		22,012
		Total policyholders' account balances		$	136,150	$	136,657
Schedule of Liability for Future Policy Benefits, by Product Segment [Table Text Block]	Future Policy Benefits
			Future policy benefits at December 31 for the years indicated are as follows:
				2014		2013
					(in millions)
	Life insurance			$	143,842	$	142,952
	Individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts				58,699		55,445
	Other contract liabilities				12,172		5,490
		Subtotal future policy benefits excluding unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses			214,713		203,887
	Unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses				3,053		2,972
		Total future policy benefits		$	217,766	$	206,859

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur1

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]
Deferred Sales Inducements [Table Text Block]			Sales Inducements
			(in millions)
	Balance at December 31, 2011		$	1,001
		Capitalization		259
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		189
		Amortization - All other		-109
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		17
	Balance at December 31, 2012			1,357
		Capitalization		53
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		27
		Amortization - All other		340
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		36
	Balance at December 31, 2013			1,813
		Capitalization		22
		Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups		81
		Amortization - All other		-403
		Change in unrealized investment gains and losses		1
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	1,514
Schedule of Minimum Guaranteed Benefit Liabilities [Table Text Block]			GMDB				GMIB		GMAB/GMWB/ GMIWB
			Variable Life, Variable Universal Life and Universal Life		Annuity		Annuity		Annuity
			(in millions)
	Balance at December 31, 2011		$	288	$	319	$	405	$	2,886
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		103		272		102		463
		Paid guarantee benefits and other		-14		-104		-32		0
		Other(2)		-6		1		-16		-1
	Balance at December 31, 2012			371		488		459		3,348
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		97		35		10		-2,904
		Paid guarantee benefits and other		-4		-75		-23		0
		Other(3)		1,331		13		-49		-3
	Balance at December 31, 2013			1,795		461		397		441
		Incurred guarantee benefits (1)		794		245		84		7,741
		Paid guarantee benefits		-18		-68		-15		0
		Other		279		4		1		0
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	2,850	$	642	$	467	$	8,182
	-
	Incurred guarantee benefits include the portion of assessments established as additions to reserves as well as changes in estimates affecting the reserves. Also includes changes in the fair value of features considered to be derivatives.
	Primarily represents amounts acquired from Star and Edison.
	GMDB primarily includes amounts acquired from The Hartford on January 2, 2013.
Schedule of Net Amount of Risk by Product and Guarantee [Table Text Block]			31-Dec-14				31-Dec-13
			In the Event of Death		At Annuitization / Accumulation(1)		In the Event of Death		At Annuitization / Accumulation(1)
	Annuity Contracts		($ in millions)
	Return of net deposits
	Account value		$	118,629	$	163	$	113,527	$	181
	Net amount at risk		$	403	$	0	$	465	$	0
	Average attained age of contractholders			64 years		63 years		63 years		62 years
	Minimum return or contract value
	Account value		$	37,322	$	134,938	$	37,801	$	127,530
	Net amount at risk		$	2,856	$	3,135	$	2,817	$	2,892
	Average attained age of contractholders			66 years		62 years		66 years		63 years
	Average period remaining until earliest
		expected annuitization		N/A		0.29 years		N/A		0.33 years
	Includes income and withdrawal benefits as described herein.
							December 31,
							2014		2013
							In the Event of Death
							($ in millions)
	Variable Life, Variable Universal Life and Universal Life Contracts
	No lapse guarantees
	Separate account value						$	7,816	$	7,546
	General account value						$	12,124	$	11,155
	Net amount at risk						$	200,386	$	194,344
	Average attained age of contractholders							55 years		54 years
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Table Text Block]							December 31,
							2014		2013
							(in millions)
	Equity funds						$	94,473	$	90,199
	Bond funds							45,159		46,235
	Balanced funds							753		652
	Money market funds							8,335		6,528
		Total					$	148,720	$	143,614

Closed_Block_Tables

Closed Block (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Closed Block Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Closed Block Liabilities and Assets						2014		2013
						(in millions)
	Closed Block liabilities
		Future policy benefits				$	49,863	$	50,258
		Policyholders' dividends payable					931		907
		Policyholders' dividend obligation					6,612		4,511
		Policyholders' account balances					5,310		5,359
		Other Closed Block liabilities					5,084		4,281
			Total Closed Block liabilities				67,800		65,316
	Closed Block assets
		Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value					40,629		39,169
		Other trading account assets, at fair value					302		291
		Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value					3,522		3,884
		Commercial mortgage and other loans					9,472		8,762
		Policy loans					4,914		5,013
		Other long-term investments					2,765		2,085
		Short-term investments					1,225		1,790
			Total investments				62,829		60,994
		Cash and cash equivalents					1,201		544
		Accrued investment income					527		542
		Other Closed Block assets					332		296
			Total Closed Block assets				64,889		62,376
	Excess of reported Closed Block liabilities over Closed Block assets						2,911		2,940
	Portion of above representing accumulated other comprehensive income:
			Net unrealized investment gains (losses)				5,040		3,615
			Allocated to policyholder dividend obligation				-5,053		-3,624
	Future earnings to be recognized from Closed Block assets and Closed Block liabilities					$	2,898	$	2,931
Schedule of Closed Block Dividend Obligation			Information regarding the policyholder dividend obligation is as follows:
						2014		2013
						(in millions)
	Balance, January 1					$	4,511	$	6,363
		Impact from earnings allocable to policyholder dividend obligation					672		2
		Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated to policyholder dividend
			obligation				1,429		-1,854
	Balance, December 31					$	6,612	$	4,511
Schedule of Closed Block Revenues Benefits Expenses			Closed Block revenues and benefits and expenses for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
				2014		2013		2012
				(in millions)
	Revenues
		Premiums		$	2,704	$	2,728	$	2,817
		Net investment income			2,809		2,796		2,919
		Realized investment gains (losses), net			1,164		230		243
		Other income			34		57		31
			Total Closed Block revenues		6,711		5,811		6,010
	Benefits and Expenses
		Policyholders' benefits			3,326		3,334		3,445
		Interest credited to policyholders' account balances			136		136		137
		Dividends to policyholders			2,635		1,910		2,021
		General and administrative expenses			444		467		492
			Total Closed Block benefits and expenses		6,541		5,847		6,095
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, before
		income taxes and discontinued operations			170		-36		-85
	Income tax expense (benefit)				139		-57		-103
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses and income
		taxes, before discontinued operations			31		21		18
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes				1		0		-2
	Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, income taxes
		and discontinued operations		$	32	$	21	$	16

Reinsurance_Tables

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance Information Table [Text Block]			2014		2013		2012
			(in millions)
	Direct premiums		$	29,666	$	27,444	$	66,566
	Reinsurance assumed			1,134		272		224
	Reinsurance ceded			-1,507		-1,479		-1,436
		Premiums	$	29,293	$	26,237	$	65,354
	Direct policy charges and fees		$	5,026	$	4,648	$	4,491
	Reinsurance assumed			1,425		918		106
	Reinsurance ceded			-272		-151		-108
		Policy charges and fees	$	6,179	$	5,415	$	4,489
	Direct policyholder benefits		$	31,012	$	27,458	$	66,075
	Reinsurance assumed			2,732		809		435
	Reinsurance ceded			-2,157		-1,534		-1,379
		Policyholders' benefits	$	31,587	$	26,733	$	65,131
	Reinsurance recoverables at December 31, are as follows:
					2014		2013
					(in millions)
	Individual and group annuities(1)				$	109	$	252
	Life insurance(2)					2,842		2,383
	Other reinsurance					159		149
		Total reinsurance recoverable			$	3,110	$	2,784
Reinsurance Recoverables Table [Text Block]
	Primarily represents reinsurance recoverables established under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA. The Company has recorded reinsurance payables related to the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA of $105 million and $248 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Includes $2,130 million and $1,597 million of reinsurance recoverables established at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the individual life business of The Hartford. The Company has also recorded reinsurance payables related to the individual life business of The Hartford acquisition of $1,300 million and $1,244 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Ta

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt
Short-term Debt	Short-term Debt
			Short-term debt at December 31 for the years indicated is as follows:
					2014				2013
					(in millions)
	Commercial paper:
		Prudential Financial			$	97			$	190
		Prudential Funding, LLC				386				460
	Subtotal commercial paper					483				650
	Current portion of long-term debt(1)					3,356				2,019
			Total short-term debt(2)		$	3,839			$	2,669
	Supplemental short-term debt information:
		Portion of commercial paper borrowings due overnight			$	199			$	466
		Daily average commercial paper outstanding			$	1,409			$	1,309
		Weighted average maturity of outstanding commercial paper, in days				22				18
		Weighted average interest rate on outstanding short-term debt(3)				0.12	%			0.17	%
	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2014 and limited and non-recourse borrowings of Prudential Holdings, LLC attributable to the Closed Block Business of $75 million at December 31, 2013. This debt was redeemed in December 2014.
	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Excludes the current portion of long-term debt.
ScheduleOfLineOfCreditFacilitiesTextBlock				Original		Expiration
		Borrower		Term		Date		Capacity			Outstanding
								(in millions)
		Prudential Financial(1)		5-year		Nov-18	$	2,000		$	0
		Prudential Financial and Prudential Funding(1)		3-year		Nov-16		1,750			0
							$	3,750		$	0
	In November 2013, amendments to these facilities extended their terms by approximately 2 years. The expiration dates above reflect that extension.
Long-term Debt				Maturity				December 31,
				Dates		Rate (1)		2014			2013
								(in millions)
	Fixed-rate notes:
		Surplus notes		2015-2025		5.36%-8.30%		$	841		$	941
		Surplus notes subject to set-off arrangements		2021-2033		3.52%-5.26%			3,588			2,400
		Senior notes(2)		2015-2044		2.30%-11.31%			10,842			12,151
		Mortgage debt(3)		2019-2024		1.72%-3.80%			142			0
	Floating-rate notes:
		Surplus notes		2016-2052		0.51%-3.44%			500			3,200
		Surplus notes subject to set-off arrangements		2024		1.65%			385			0
		U. S. dollar-denominated senior notes		2015-2020		0.40%-4.88%			2,209			677
		Foreign currency-denominated senior notes		-4		1.33%-1.42%			53			100
		Mortgage debt(5)		2017-2024		1.36%-3.11%			360			0
	Junior subordinated notes			2042-2068		5.20%-8.88%			4,884			4,884
	Prudential Holdings, LLC notes (the "IHC Debt"):
		Series A		2017(6)		1.12%			0			238
		Series B		2023(6)		7.25%			0			777
		Series C		2023(6)		8.70%			0			585
	Subtotal								23,804			25,953
	Less: assets under set-off arrangements(7)								3,973			2,400
			Total long-term debt(8)					$	19,831		$	23,553
	Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2013.
	Includes $71 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $34 million of this debt was presented as fixed-rate senior notes.
	Perpetual debt that has no stated maturity.
	Includes $142 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $123 million and $39 million of this debt was presented as floating-rate U.S. dollar-denominated senior notes and floating-rate foreign currency-denominated senior notes, respectively.
	The IHC Debt was redeemed by Prudential Holdings, LLC in December 2014.
	Assets under set-off arrangements represent a reduction in the amount of surplus notes included in long-term debt, resulting from an arrangement where valid rights of set-off exist and it is the intent of both parties to settle on a net basis under legally enforceable arrangements.
	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Contractual Maturities Of Long-Term Debt				Calendar Year
															2020 and
				2016			2017			2018			2019		thereafter		Total
				(in millions)
	Long-term debt			$	1,352		$	1,581		$	1,431		$	1,631	$	13,836	$	19,831
Junior Subordinated Notes						Initial				Optional		Interest Rate
			Principal			Interest		Investor		Redemption		Subsequent to Optional		Scheduled	Final
	Issue Date		Amount			Rate		Type		Date (1)		Redemption Date		Maturity Date	Maturity Date
		(in millions)
	Jun-08		$	600		8.88%		Institutional		6/15/18		LIBOR + 5.00%		6/15/38	6/15/68
	Aug-12		$	1,000		5.88%		Institutional		9/15/22		LIBOR + 4.175%		n/a	9/15/42
	Nov-12		$	1,500		5.63%		Institutional		6/15/23		LIBOR + 3.920%		n/a	6/15/43
	Dec-12		$	575		5.75%		Retail		12/4/17		5.75%		n/a	12/15/52
	Mar-13		$	710		5.70%		Retail		3/15/18		5.70%		n/a	3/15/53
	Mar-13		$	500		5.20%		Institutional		3/15/24		LIBOR + 3.040%		n/a	3/15/44
	Represents the initial date on which the notes can be redeemed at par solely at the option of the Company, subject in the case of the 8.875% notes to compliance with a replacement capital covenant.
Medium Term Notes	Issue Date			Face Value			Interest Rate		Maturity Date
				(in millions)
	15-May-14			$	500		4.60%		15-May-44
	15-May-14			$	700		3.50%		15-May-24
	14-Aug-14			$	350		2.35%		15-Aug-19
	August 14, 2014(1)			$	250		4.60%		15-May-44
	These form part of the same series as the 4.600% notes issued on May 15, 2014 increasing the aggregate principal amount of those notes to $750 million.

Equity_Tables

Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity
Common Stock Disclosure			Common Stock
					Held In
			Issued		Treasury		Outstanding
			(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011		660.1		192.1		468
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		11.5		-11.5
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-6.5		6.5
	Balance, December 31, 2012		660.1		197.1		463
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		10		-10
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-8.1		8.1
	Balance, December 31, 2013		660.1		199		461.1
	Common Stock issued		0		0		0
	Common Stock acquired		0		11.6		-11.6
	Stock-based compensation programs(1)		0		-5.3		5.3
	Balance, December 31, 2014		660.1		205.3		454.8
	Represents net shares issued from treasury pursuant to the Company's stock-based compensation programs.
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income				Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.
				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment			Net Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)(1)			Pension and Postretirement Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit (Cost)			Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
				(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011			$	1,107		$	5,805		$	-1,667		$	5,245
	Change in other comprehensive income
		before reclassifications			-303			8,596			-800			7,493
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI				6			36			101			143
	Income tax benefit (expense)				118			-3,035			250			-2,667
	Balance, December 31, 2012				928			11,402			-2,116			10,214
	Change in other comprehensive income
		before reclassifications			-1,465			-1,239			749			-1,955
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI				4			-289			125			-160
	Income tax benefit (expense)				420			470			-308			582
	Balance, December 31, 2013				-113			10,344			-1,550			8,681
	Change in other comprehensive income
		before reclassifications			-1,066			15,490			-1,134			13,290
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI				-3			-1,760			91			-1,672
	Income tax benefit (expense)				207			-4,823			367			-4,249
	Balance, December 31, 2014			$	-975		$	19,251		$	-2,226		$	16,050
	(1) Includes cash flow hedges of $206 million, ($446) million and ($257) million as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
								Years Ended December 31,						Affected line item in Consolidated
								2014			2013			Statements of Operations
								(in millions)
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI (1)(2):
	Foreign currency translation adjustment:
		Foreign currency translation adjustment						$	3		$	0		Realized investment gains (losses), net
		Foreign currency translation adjustment							0			-4		Other income
			Total foreign currency translation adjustment						3			-4
	Net unrealized investment gains (losses):
		Cash flow hedges - Interest Rate							-60			-24		-3
		Cash flow hedges - Currency/Interest rate							114			-104		-3
		Net unrealized investment gains (losses)
		on available-for-sale securities							1,706			351
		Net unrealized investment gains (losses) - all other							0			66
			Total net unrealized investment gains (losses)						1,760			289		-4
	Amortization of defined benefit items:
		Prior service cost							20			22		-5
		Actuarial gain (loss)							-111			-147		-5
			Total amortization of defined benefit items						-91			-125
					Total reclassifications for the period			$	1,672		$	160
	All amounts are shown before tax.
	Positive amounts indicate gains/benefits reclassified out of AOCI. Negative amounts indicate losses/costs reclassified out of AOCI.
	See Note 21 for additional information on cash flow hedges.
	See table below for additional information on unrealized investment gains (losses), including the impact on deferred policy acquisition and other costs, future policy benefits and policyholders' dividends.
	See Note 18 for information on employee benefit plans.
Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) AOCI Rollforward
									Deferred
									Policy
									Acquisition										Accumulated
									Costs,			Future							Other
									Deferred			Policy							Comprehensive
						Net			Sales			Benefits							Income (Loss)
						Unrealized			Inducements,			and					Deferred		Related To Net
						Gains (Losses)			and Value			Policyholders'					Income Tax		Unrealized
						on			of Business			Account			Policyholders'		(Liability)		Investment
						Investments			Acquired			Balances			Dividends		Benefit		Gains (Losses)
						(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011					$	-1,003		$	13		$	14		$	466	$	178	$	-332
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					590											-207		383
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					312											-109		203
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(1)					-93											33		-60
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
		business acquired								-10								4		-6
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on future policy
		benefits and policyholders'
		account balances											-11					5		-6
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on policyholders'
		dividends														-327		114		-213
	Balance, December 31, 2012					$	-194		$	3		$	3		$	139	$	18	$	-31
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					242											-85		157
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					70											-25		45
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(1)					-8											3		-5
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
		business acquired								-8								3		-5
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on future policy
		benefits and policyholders'
		account balances											1							1
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on policyholders'
		dividends														-75		26		-49
	Balance, December 31, 2013					$	110		$	-5		$	4		$	64	$	-60	$	113
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					196											-69		127
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					47											-16		31
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(1)					-4											1		-3
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
	business acquired								-1										-1
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											-1							-1
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-96		34		-62
Balance, December 31, 2014					$	349		$	-6		$	3		$	-32	$	-110	$	204
Represents “transfers in” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) AOCI Rollforward									Deferred
									Policy
									Acquisition										Accumulated
									Costs,			Future							Other
									Deferred			Policy							Comprehensive
						Net			Sales			Benefits							Income (Loss)
						Unrealized			Inducements,			and					Deferred		Related To Net
						Gains (Losses)			and Value			Policyholders'					Income Tax		Unrealized
						on			of Business			Account			Policyholders'		(Liability)		Investment
						Investments(1)			Acquired			Balances			Dividends		Benefit		Gains (Losses)
						(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011					$	15,748		$	-1,179		$	-1,270		$	-4,319	$	-2,843	$	6,137
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					9,586											-3,373		6,213
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					-276											97		-179
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(2)					93											-32		61
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
		business acquired								-49								17		-32
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on future policy
		benefits and policyholders'
		account balances											126					-43		83
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on policyholders'
		dividends														-1,308		458		-850
	Balance, December 31, 2012					$	25,151		$	-1,228		$	-1,144		$	-5,627	$	-5,719	$	11,433
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					-4,306											1,443		-2,863
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					-359											126		-233
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(2)					8											-3		5
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
		business acquired								509								-178		331
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on future policy
		benefits and policyholders'
		account balances											465					-164		301
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on policyholders'
		dividends														1,933		-676		1,257
	Balance, December 31, 2013					$	20,494		$	-719		$	-679		$	-3,694	$	-5,171	$	10,231
	Net investment gains (losses) on
		investments arising during the
		period					18,073											-6,337		11,736
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains)
		losses included in net income					-1,807											632		-1,175
	Reclassification adjustment for OTTI
		losses excluded from net income(2)					4											-1		3
	Impact of net unrealized investment
		(gains) losses on deferred policy
		acquisition costs, deferred sales
		inducements and value of
		business acquired								-736								254		-482
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on future policy
	benefits and policyholders'
	account balances											-603					211		-392
Impact of net unrealized investment
	(gains) losses on policyholders'
	dividends														-1,342		468		-874
Balance, December 31, 2014					$	36,764		$	-1,455		$	-1,282		$	-5,036	$	-9,944	$	19,047
Includes cash flow hedges. See Note 21 for information on cash flow hedges.
Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share
Reconciliation of Earnings Per Share
				2014							2013								2012
				Income		Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income			Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income		Weighted Average Shares		Per Share Amount
					(in millions, except per share amounts)
	Basic earnings per share
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses		$	1,579						$	-613							$	512
	Direct equity adjustment				-27							2								20
	Less: Income attributable to
		noncontrolling interests			57							107								50
	Less: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards			14							8								7
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses
		available to holders of Common
		Stock after direct equity
		adjustment		$	1,481	458.5		$	3.23		$	-726		463.1		$	-1.57		$	475	465.6	$	1.02
	Effect of dilutive securities and
		compensation programs(1)
	Add: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards - Basic		$	14						$	8							$	7
	Less: Dividends and undistributed
		earnings allocated to participating
		unvested share-based payment
		awards - Diluted			14							8								7
	Stock options					3								0							1.9
	Deferred and long-term
		compensation programs				0.8								0							0.6
	Exchangeable Surplus Notes				17	5.4						0		0						0	0
	Diluted earnings per share(1)(2)
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Financial Services Businesses
		available to holders of Common
		Stock after direct equity
		adjustment		$	1,498	467.7		$	3.2		$	-726		463.1		$	-1.57		$	475	468.1	$	1.01
	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, weighted average shares for basic earnings per share is also used for calculating diluted earnings per share because dilutive shares and dilutive earnings per share are not applicable when a loss from continuing operations is reported. As a result of the loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, all potential stock options and compensation programs were considered antidilutive.
	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, weighted average shares used for calculating diluted earnings per share excludes the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes since the hypothetical impact of these shares was antidilutive. In calculating diluted earnings per share under the if-converted method, the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes assuming a hypothetical exchange, weighted for the period the notes are outstanding, is added to the denominator, and interest expense, net of tax, is added to the numerator, if the overall effect is dilutive.
Earnings Per Share Computation				2014							2013								2012
				Income		Weighted Average Shares(1)			Per Share Amount		Income			Weighted Average Shares			Per Share Amount		Income		Weighted Average Shares		Per Share Amount
				(in millions, except per share amounts)
	Basic earnings per share
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Closed Block Business		$	-153						$	46							$	43
	Less: Direct equity adjustment				-27							2								20
	Income (loss) from continuing
		operations attributable to the
		Closed Block Business
		available to holders of Class B
		Stock after direct equity
		adjustment		$	-126	1.8		$	-70		$	44		2		$	22		$	23	2	$	11.5
Antidilutive Options Excluded From Diluted Earnings Per Share Calculation
				2014					2013						2012
					Shares		Exercise Price Per Share			Shares			Exercise Price Per Share			Shares			Exercise Price Per Share
					(in millions, except per share amounts, based on weighted average)
	Antidilutive stock options based on application of the
		treasury stock method			1.9	$	90.3			6.6		$	73.51			13.3		$	69.8
	Antidilutive stock options due to loss from continuing
		operations available to holders of Common Stock
		after direct equity adjustment			0					12.2						0
	Antidilutive shares due to loss from continuing operations
		available to holders of Common Stock after direct
		equity adjustment			0					5.2						0
			Total antidilutive stock options and shares		1.9					24						13.3

ShareBased_Payments_Tables

Share-Based Payments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule Of Share Based Payment Award Stock Options Valuation Assumptions [TableText Block]
			2014			2013			2012
	Expected volatility			35.52	%		36.44	%		41.8	%
	Expected dividend yield			2.7	%		3	%		3	%
	Expected term			5.63 years			5.52 years			5.44 years
	Risk-free interest rate			1.74	%		1.01	%		0.93	%
				31-Dec-14
				Employee Stock Options
					Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term			Aggregate Intrinsic Value
					(in years)			(in millions)
	Outstanding				5.03		$	315
	Vested and expected to vest				5.01		$	313
	Exercisable				3.99		$	217
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
				2014						2013					2012
				Total Compensation Cost Recognized			Income Tax Benefit			Total Compensation Cost Recognized			Income Tax Benefit		Total Compensation Cost Recognized		Income Tax Benefit
				(in millions)
	Employee stock options			$	25		$	9		$	43		$	15	$	45	$	16
	Employee restricted stock units				95			34			88			32		84		30
	Employee performance shares and
		performance units			46			17			86			31		26		9
		Total		$	166		$	60		$	217		$	78	$	155	$	55
Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Stock Options Activity [Table Text Block]
				Employee Stock Options
					Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013				14,994,449		$	62.79
		Granted			694,019			84.5
		Exercised			-3,380,297			59.3
		Forfeited			-19,498			58.36
		Expired			-57,176			88.75
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014				12,231,497		$	64.88
	Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2014				12,161,071		$	64.85
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014				8,680,804		$	65.66
Employee Restricted Equity Awards [Table Text Block]				Restricted Stock Units		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value			Performance Share and Performance Unit Awards(1)		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
	Restricted at December 31, 2013(2)			4,364,106		$	59.93		1,012,990		$	92.22
		Granted(2)		1,295,137			84.56		461,646			90.46
		Forfeited		-78,877			67.46		-16,381			84.3
		Performance adjustment(3)							75,338			84.53
		Released		-1,377,475			63.19		-358,792			84.53
	Restricted at December 31, 2014(2)			4,202,891		$	66.31		1,174,801		$	90.46
	Performance share and performance unit awards reflect the target units awarded, reduced for forfeitures and releases to date. The actual number of units to be awarded at the end of each performance period will range between 0% and 150% of the target number of units granted for performance periods beginning prior to 2014 and between 0% and 125% thereafter, based upon a measure of the reported performance for the Company's Financial Services Businesses relative to stated goals.
	For performance share and performance unit awards, the grant date is the same as the date the grant vests. The features of the grant are such that a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award between the employee and employer have not been reached until the grant is vested. Consequently, the weighted average grant date fair value as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is the closing stock price of Prudential Financial's common stock on those dates.
	Represents the difference between the target units granted and the actual units awarded based upon the attainment of performance goals for the Company's Financial Services Businesses.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Benefit Plans
Status of Employee Benefit Plans			Pension Benefits						Other Postretirement Benefits
			2014			2013			2014			2013
				(in millions)
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at the beginning of period		$	-10,886		$	-12,042		$	-2,102		$	-2,372
	Acquisition/Divestiture			0			0			0			-3
	Service cost			-234			-252			-17			-17
	Interest cost			-481			-437			-96			-89
	Plan participants’ contributions			0			0			-29			-28
	Medicare Part D subsidy receipts			0			0			-8			-12
	Amendments			1			-2			0			0
	Annuity purchase			0			1			0			0
	Actuarial gains/(losses), net			-1,804			844			-169			220
	Settlements			42			5			0			0
	Special termination benefits			-4			-2			0			0
	Benefits paid			620			691			184			200
	Foreign currency changes and other			201			308			4			-1
	Benefit obligation at end of period		$	-12,545		$	-10,886		$	-2,233		$	-2,102
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period		$	12,069		$	12,686		$	1,745		$	1,329
	Actual return on plan assets			1,515			266			120			244
	Annuity purchase			0			-1			0			0
	Employer contributions			165			206			7			18
	Plan participants’ contributions			0			0			29			28
	Disbursement for settlements			-42			-5			0			0
	Benefits paid			-620			-691			-184			-200
	Foreign currency changes and other			-59			-52			0			-14
	Effect of Section 420 transfer			0			-340			0			340
	Fair value of plan assets at end of period		$	13,028		$	12,069		$	1,717		$	1,745
	Funded status at end of period		$	483		$	1,183		$	-516		$	-357
	Amounts recognized in the Statements of Financial Position
	Prepaid benefit cost		$	2,828		$	3,354		$	0		$	0
	Accrued benefit liability			-2,345			-2,171			-516			-357
	Net amount recognized		$	483		$	1,183		$	-516		$	-357
	Items recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)"
	not yet recognized as a component of net periodic (benefit) cost:
	Transition obligation		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0
	Prior service cost			-42			-56			-8			-19
	Net actuarial loss			2,946			2,065			600			463
	Net amount not recognized		$	2,904		$	2,009		$	592		$	444
	Accumulated benefit obligation		$	-11,964		$	-10,374		$	-2,233		$	-2,102
Schedule of Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	Information for pension plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
					2014			2013
						(in millions)
		Projected benefit obligation			$	2,379		$	2,457
		Fair value of plan assets			$	34		$	286
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
					2014			2013
						(in millions)
		Accumulated benefit obligation			$	2,164		$	2,258
		Fair value of plan assets			$	33		$	258
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]			Pension Benefits									Other Postretirement Benefits
			2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012
				(in millions)
	Service cost		$	234		$	252		$	243		$	17		$	17		$	14
	Interest cost			481			437			474			96			89			101
	Expected return on plan assets			-712			-769			-809			-116			-87			-87
	Amortization of transition obligation			0			0			0			0			0			1
	Amortization of prior service cost			-10			-10			13			-10			-12			-12
	Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss, net			86			91			45			25			56			54
	Settlements			10			0			9			0			0			0
	Curtailments			0			0			0			0			0			0
	Special termination benefits (1)			4			2			7			0			0			0
	Net periodic (benefit) cost		$	93		$	3		$	-18		$	12		$	63		$	71
	Certain employees were provided special termination benefits under non-qualified plans in the form of unreduced early retirement benefits as a result of their involuntary termination.
Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income				Pension Benefits									Other Postretirement Benefits
				Transition Obligation			Prior Service Cost			Net Actuarial (Gain) Loss			Transition Obligation			Prior Service Cost			Net Actuarial (Gain) Loss
					(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011			$	0		$	-9		$	1,815		$	1		$	-42		$	861
		Amortization for the period			0			-13			-45			-1			12			-54
		Deferrals for the period			0			-62			810			0			0			81
		Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			3			-32			0			0			5
	Balance, December 31, 2012				0			-81			2,548			0			-30			893
		Amortization for the period			0			10			-91			0			12			-56
		Deferrals for the period			0			2			-341			0			0			-377
		Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			13			-51			0			-1			3
	Balance, December 31, 2013				0			-56			2,065			0			-19			463
		Amortization for the period			0			10			-86			0			10			-25
		Deferrals for the period			0			-1			1,001			0			0			165
		Impact of foreign currency changes and other			0			5			-34			0			1			-3
	Balance, December 31, 2014			$	0		$	-42		$	2,946		$	0		$	-8		$	600
Amounts in AOCI to be recognized in next year	The amounts included in AOCI expected to be recognized as components of net periodic (benefit) cost in 2015 are as follows:
				Pension Benefits			Other Postretirement Benefits
				(in millions)
	Amortization of prior service cost			$	-8		$	-5
	Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss, net				168			38
		Total		$	160		$	33
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]			Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
			2014			2013		2012		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted-average assumptions
	Discount rate (beginning of period)			4.95%		4.05%		4.85%		4.75%		3.85%		4.60%
	Discount rate (end of period)			4.10%		4.95%		4.05%		3.95%		4.75%		3.85%
	Rate of increase in compensation levels (beginning of period)			4.50%		4.50%		4.50%		N/A		N/A		N/A
	Rate of increase in compensation levels (end of period)			4.50%		4.50%		4.50%		N/A		N/A		N/A
	Expected return on plan assets (beginning of period)			6.25%		6.25%		6.75%		7.00%		7.00%		7.00%
	Health care cost trend rates (beginning of period)			N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00-7.08%		5.00-7.50%		5.00-7.50%
	Health care cost trend rates (end of period)			N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00-6.66%		5.00-7.08%		5.00-7.50%
	For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the ultimate health care cost trend rate after
		gradual decrease until: 2019, 2019, 2017, (beginning of period)		N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00%		5.00%		5.00%
	For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the ultimate health care cost trend rate
		after gradual decrease until: 2019, 2019, 2019 (end of period)		N/A		N/A		N/A		5.00%		5.00%		5.00%
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block]			Other Postretirement Benefits
			(in millions)
	One percentage point increase
	Increase in total service and interest costs		$	8
	Increase in postretirement benefit obligation			160
	One percentage point decrease
	Decrease in total service and interest costs		$	6
	Decrease in postretirement benefit obligation			125
Schedule of Plans Assets-Fair Value and Allocation % (Target/Actual)			Pension				Postretirement
			Minimum		Maximum		Minimum		Maximum
	Asset Category
	U.S. Equities		2%		15%		47%		61%
	International Equities		2%		15%		2%		10%
	Fixed Maturities		51%		70%		1%		38%
	Short-term Investments		0%		14%		0%		44%
	Real Estate		2%		15%		0%		0%
	Other		0%		15%		0%		0%
							As of December 31, 2014
							Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
							(in millions)
	U.S. Equities:
		Pooled separate accounts (1)					$	0		$	881		$	0		$	881
		Common/collective trusts (1)						0			87			0			87
				Subtotal													968
	International Equities:
		Pooled separate accounts (2)						0			323			0			323
		Common/collective trusts (3)						0			202			0			202
		United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (4)						0			45			0			45
				Subtotal													570
	Fixed Maturities:
		Pooled separate accounts (5)						0			1,162			35			1,197
		Common/collective trusts (6)						0			490			0			490
		U.S. government securities (federal):
			Mortgage-backed					0			1			0			1
			Other U.S. government securities					0			852			0			852
		U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			694			0			694
		Non-U.S. government securities						0			16			0			16
		United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (7)						0			320			0			320
		Corporate Debt:
			Corporate bonds (8)					0			4,550			14			4,564
			Asset-backed					0			25			0			25
			Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (9)					0			112			0			112
		Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $1,536)						0			-1			0			-1
		Guaranteed investment contract						0			28			0			28
		Other (10)						712			4			73			789
		Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
			collateral (11)					0			-37			0			-37
				Subtotal													9,050
	Short-term Investments:
		Pooled separate accounts						0			39			0			39
		United Kingdom insurance pooled funds						0			1			0			1
				Subtotal													40
	Real Estate:
		Pooled separate accounts (12)						0			0			465			465
		Partnerships						0			0			336			336
				Subtotal													801
	Other:
		Partnerships						0			0			455			455
		Hedge funds						0			0			1,144			1,144
				Subtotal													1,599
					Total		$	712		$	9,794		$	2,522		$	13,028
							As of December 31, 2013
							Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
							(in millions)
	U.S. Equities:
		Pooled separate accounts (1)					$	0		$	1,170		$	0		$	1,170
		Common/collective trusts (1)						0			81			0			81
				Subtotal													1,251
	International Equities:
		Pooled separate accounts (2)						0			349			0			349
		Common/collective trusts (3)						0			40			0			40
		United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (4)						0			50			0			50
			Subtotal													439
Fixed Maturities:
	Pooled separate accounts (5)						0			1,085			32			1,117
	Common/collective trusts (6)						0			506			0			506
	U.S. government securities (federal):
		Mortgage-backed					0			2			0			2
		Other U.S. government securities					0			1,005			0			1,005
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			636			0			636
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			17			0			17
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds (7)						0			266			0			266
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (8)					0			3,660			16			3,676
		Asset-backed					0			24			0			24
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (9)					0			137			0			137
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $623)						0			-3			0			-3
	Guaranteed investment contract						0			28			0			28
	Other (10)						717			0			66			783
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (13)					0			-39			0			-39
			Subtotal													8,155
Short-term Investments:
	Pooled separate accounts						0			78			0			78
	United Kingdom insurance pooled funds						0			1			0			1
			Subtotal													79
Real Estate:
	Pooled separate accounts (12)						0			0			356			356
	Partnerships						0			0			320			320
			Subtotal													676
Other:
	Partnerships						0			0			374			374
	Hedge funds						0			0			1,095			1,095
			Subtotal													1,469
				Total		$	717		$	9,093		$	2,259		$	12,069
These categories invest in U.S. equity funds whose objective is to track or outperform various indexes.
This category invests in a large cap international equity funds whose objective is to track an index.
This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap, whose objective is to outperform various indexes. For 2014, this category also includes a global equity fund, primarily focused on new market leaders with sustainable competitive advantage.
This category invests in an international equity fund whose objective is to track an index.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated private placement securities.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated public securities whose objective is to outperform an index.
This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated corporate securities.
This category invests in highly rated corporate securities.
This category invests in highly rated Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
Primarily cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables, and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $717 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $754 million.
This category invests in commercial real estate and real estate securities funds, whose objective is to outperform an index.
The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $701 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $740 million.
						As of December 31, 2014
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (1)					$	0		$	698		$	0		$	698
	Common trusts (2)						0			155			0			155
	Equities						124			0			0			124
			Subtotal													977
International Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (3)						0			61			0			61
	Common trusts (4)						0			22			0			22
			Subtotal													83
Fixed Maturities:
	Common trusts (5)						0			31			0			31
	U.S. government securities (federal):
			Mortgage-Backed				0			5			0			5
			Other U.S. government securities				0			116			0			116
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			3			0			3
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			7			0			7
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (6)					0			254			1			255
		Asset-Backed					0			76			1			77
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (7)					0			39			0			39
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $1,024)						0			-8			0			-8
	Other (8)						57			0			-5			52
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (9)					0			0			0			0
			Subtotal													577
Short-term Investments:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies						0			0			0			0
	Registered investment companies						80			0			0			80
			Subtotal													80
				Total		$	261		$	1,459		$	-3		$	1,717
						As of December 31, 2013
						Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
						(in millions)
U.S. Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (1)					$	0		$	634		$	0		$	634
	Common trusts (2)						0			136			0			136
	Equities						110			0			0			110
			Subtotal													880
International Equities:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies (3)						0			64			0			64
	Common trusts (4)						0			23			0			23
			Subtotal													87
Fixed Maturities:
	Common trusts (5)						0			29			0			29
	U.S. government securities (federal):
			Mortgage-Backed				0			7			0			7
			Other U.S. government securities				0			289			0			289
	U.S. government securities (state & other)						0			3			0			3
	Non-U.S. government securities						0			4			0			4
	Corporate Debt:
		Corporate bonds (6)					0			235			1			236
		Asset-Backed					0			56			5			61
		Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (7)					0			35			0			35
	Interest rate swaps (Notional amount: $861)						0			-7			0			-7
	Other (8)						74			0			-6			68
	Unrealized gain (loss) on investment of securities lending
		collateral (10)					0			0			0			0
			Subtotal													725
Short-term Investments:
	Variable Life Insurance Policies						0			0			0			0
	Registered investment companies						53			0			0			53
			Subtotal													53
				Total		$	237		$	1,508		$	0		$	1,745
This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities whose objective is to track an index via pooled separate accounts and registered investment companies.
This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities.
This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap international equities whose objective is to track an index.
This category fund invests in large cap international equity fund whose objective is to outperform an index.
This category invests in U.S. bonds funds.
This category invests in highly rated corporate bonds.
This category invests in highly rated Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
Cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
In 2014 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $10 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $10 million.
In 2013 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $16 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $16 million.
A summary of pension and postretirement plan asset allocation as of the year ended December 31, are as follows:
		Pension Percentage of Plan Assets				Postretirement Percentage of Plan Assets
		2014		2013		2014		2013
Asset Category
U.S. Equities		7	%	10	%	57	%	50	%
International Equities		5		4		5		5
Fixed Maturities		69		67		34		39
Short-term Investments		0		1		4		6
Real Estate		6		6		0		0
Other		13		12		0		0
Total		100	%	100	%	100	%	100	%
Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block]						Year Ended December 31, 2014
									Fixed
						Fixed			Maturities -
						Maturities -			Corporate						Real Estate -
						Pooled			Debt -			Fixed			Pooled
						Separate			Corporate			Maturities -			Separate
						Accounts			Bonds			Other			Accounts
						(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period					$	32		$	16		$	66		$	356
		Actual Return on Assets:
			Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				3			0			0			49
			Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0			5
		Purchases, sales and settlements					0			-2			7			55
		Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0			0
	Fair Value, end of period					$	35		$	14		$	73		$	465
									Year Ended December 31, 2014
									Real Estate -			Other -			Other -
									Partnerships			Partnerships			Hedge Fund
									(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period								$	320		$	374		$	1,095
		Actual Return on Assets:
			Relating to assets still held at the reporting date							6			53			49
			Relating to assets sold during the period							0			0			0
		Purchases, sales and settlements								10			28			0
		Transfers in and /or out of Level 3								0			0			0
	Fair Value, end of period								$	336		$	455		$	1,144
						Year Ended December 31, 2013
									Fixed
						Fixed			Maturities -
						Maturities -			Corporate						Real Estate -
						Pooled			Debt -			Fixed			Pooled
						Separate			Corporate			Maturities -			Separate
						Accounts			Bonds			Other			Accounts
						(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period					$	32		$	12		$	58		$	322
		Actual Return on Assets:
			Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0			46
			Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0			0
		Purchases, sales and settlements					0			4			8			-12
		Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0			0
	Fair Value, end of period					$	32		$	16		$	66		$	356
									Year Ended December 31, 2013
									Real Estate -			Other -			Other -
									Partnerships			Partnerships			Hedge Fund
									(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period								$	185		$	598		$	707
		Actual Return on Assets:
			Relating to assets still held at the reporting date							35			48			106
			Relating to assets sold during the period							0			0			4
		Purchases, sales and settlements								100			7			-1
		Transfers in and /or out of Level 3 (1)								0			-279			279
	Fair Value, end of period								$	320		$	374		$	1,095
	The transfers in and out of Level 3 represent a reclassification of certain fund assets from Partnerships to Hedge Funds.
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
						Fixed			Fixed
						Maturities -			Maturities -
						Corporate			Corporate
						Debt -			Debt -			Fixed
						Corporate			Asset			Maturities -
						Bonds			Backed			Other
						(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period					$	1		$	5		$	-6
		Actual Return on Assets:
			Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements					0			1			1
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3 (1)					0			-5			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	1		$	1		$	-5
-1		The transfers from level 3 to level 2 are due to the availability of external pricing sources.
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
					Fixed			Fixed
					Maturities -			Maturities -
					Corporate			Corporate
					Debt -			Debt -			Fixed
					Corporate			Asset			Maturities -
					Bonds			Backed			Other
					(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period					$	2		$	0		$	-4
	Actual Return on Assets:
		Relating to assets still held at the reporting date				0			0			0
		Relating to assets sold during the period				0			0			0
	Purchases, sales and settlements					-1			5			-2
	Transfers in and /or out of Level 3					0			0			0
Fair Value, end of period					$	1		$	5		$	-6
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block]	The expected benefit payments for the Company's pension and postretirement plans, as well as the expected Medicare Part D subsidy receipts related to the Company's postretirement plan, for the years indicated are as follows:
			Pension Benefit Payments			Other Postretirement Benefit Payments			Other Postretirement Benefits - Medicare Part D Subsidy Receipts
			(in millions)
	2015		$	652		$	172		$	13
	2016			677			174			14
	2017			697			176			15
	2018			717			177			15
	2019			741			177			15
	2020-2024			4,045			870			83
	Total		$	7,529		$	1,746		$	155

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Current tax expense (benefit)
		U.S.					$	-80		$	-292		$	674
		State and local						-7			16			27
		Foreign						463			310			387
		Total						376			34			1,088
	Deferred tax expense (benefit)
		U.S.						880			44			-437
		State and local						12			0			-5
		Foreign						-919			-1,136			-433
		Total						-27			-1,092			-875
	Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating
		joint ventures						349			-1,058			213
	Income tax expense on equity in earnings of operating joint ventures							-2			19			19
	Income tax expense on discontinued operations							6			3			8
	Income tax expense (benefit) reported in equity related to:
		Other comprehensive income						4,249			-582			2,667
		Stock-based compensation programs						-29			-32			-56
	Total income taxes						$	4,573		$	-1,650		$	2,851
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Expected federal income tax expense (benefit)						$	616		$	-589		$	248
	Non-taxable investment income							-381			-319			-302
	Foreign taxes at other than U.S. rate							140			-36			-51
	Low income housing and other tax credits							-127			-105			-78
	Reversal of acquisition opening balance sheet deferred tax items							53			55			384
	Repatriation change							32			0			6
	Minority interest							-19			-37			-17
	Medicare Part D							3			-43			-1
	State taxes							-2			10			15
	Other							34			6			9
		Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of
			operating joint ventures				$	349		$	-1,058		$	213
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Deferred tax assets
		Insurance reserves			$	4,361		$	2,760
		Policyholders' dividends				2,552			1,797
		Net operating and capital loss carryforwards				256			358
		Employee benefits				825			477
		Investments				0			1,510
		Other				285			472
		Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance				8,279			7,374
		Valuation allowance				-277			-235
		Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance				8,002			7,139
	Deferred tax liabilities
		Net unrealized investment gains				12,713			7,147
		Deferred policy acquisition costs				4,049			4,208
		Investments				171			0
		Unremitted foreign earnings				512			679
		Value of business acquired				924			1,204
		Deferred tax liabilities				18,369			13,238
	Net deferred tax liability				$	-10,367		$	-6,099
Valuation Allowance For State Local And Foreign Deferred Tax Assets [Table Text Block]					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Valuation allowance related to state and local deferred tax assets				$	252		$	208
	Valuation allowance related to foreign operations deferred tax assets				$	25		$	27
Operating And Capital Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Federal net operating and capital loss carryforwards				$	0		$	0
	State net operating and capital loss carryforwards(1)				$	5,895		$	3,945
	Foreign operating loss carryforwards(2)				$	53		$	505
	General business credits(3)				$	136		$	0
	Alternative minimum tax credits(4)				$	248		$	226
	Expires between 2015 and 2034.
	$36 million expires between 2019 and 2023 and $17 million has an unlimited carryforward.
	Expires between 2031 and 2034.
	Alternative minimum tax credits do not expire.
Undistributed Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiaries Assuming Permanent Reinvestment [Table Text Block]							At December 31,
							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (assuming permanent reinvestment)						$	2,396		$	1,973		$	1,747
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation [Table Text Block]				2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
	Balance at January 1,			$	11		$	19		$	90
	Increases in unrecognized tax benefits - prior years				0			0			16
	(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits- prior years				0			-7			-4
	Increases in unrecognized tax benefits - current year				0			0			0
	(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits- current year				0			0			0
	Settlements with taxing authorities				-5			-1			-83
	Balance at December 31,			$	6		$	11		$	19
	Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably impact the
		effective rate		$	6		$	11		$	19
Amounts Recognized In Consolidated Financial Statements For Tax Related Interest And Penalties [Table Text Block]							2014			2013			2012
							(in millions)
	Interest and penalties recognized in the consolidated statements of operations						$	2		$	1		$	4
										2014			2013
											(in millions)
	Interest and penalties recognized in liabilities in the consolidated statements of
		financial position								$	4		$	6
Utilization Of Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets [Table Text Block]						Prudential Gibraltar			Star and Edison Businesses			Total
						(in millions)
	Opening balance sheet deferred tax assets after valuation allowance that will result
		in additional tax expense				$	56		$	678		$	734
	Additional tax expense (benefit) recognized in the Statement of Operations:
		2009					13			0			13
		2010					6			0			6
		2011					-29			252			223
		2012					51			333			384
		2013					15			40			55
		2014					0			53			53
				Subtotal			56			678			734
	Additional tax expense recognized in Other Comprehensive Income						0			0			0
	Unrecognized balance of additional tax expense					$	0		$	0		$	0
Open Tax Years By Major Tax Jurisdictions [Table Text Block]	Major Tax Jurisdiction			Open Tax Years
	United States			2007 - 2014
	Japan			Fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 - 2014
	Korea			Fiscal years ended March 31, 2010 - 2013 and the period ended December 31, 2014

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi1

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis					As of December 31, 2014
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Netting (1)			Total
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies			$	0		$	20,123		$	0		$			$	20,123
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			6,525			6						6,531
	Foreign government bonds					0			80,939			2						80,941
	Corporate securities					0			159,073			1,303						160,376
	Asset-backed securities					0			7,126			4,059						11,185
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			13,834			43						13,877
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			5,804			253						6,057
		Subtotal				0			293,424			5,666						299,090
	Trading account assets:(2)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies				0			399			0						399
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			199			0						199
	Foreign government bonds					0			696			21						717
	Corporate securities					0			20,146			124						20,270
	Asset-backed securities					0			850			393						1,243
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			2,556			5						2,561
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			1,767			7						1,774
	Equity securities					1,396			232			663						2,291
	All other(3)					194			13,803			7			-12,321			1,683
		Subtotal				1,590			40,648			1,220			-12,321			31,137
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					6,688			2,898			275						9,861
	Commercial mortgage and other loans					0			380			0						380
	Other long-term investments					12			224			1,547			-11			1,772
	Short-term investments					5,263			2,472			0						7,735
	Cash equivalents					2,657			9,188			0						11,845
	Other assets					4			109			2						115
		Subtotal excluding separate account assets				16,214			349,343			8,710			-12,332			361,935
	Separate account assets(4)					48,063			223,710			24,662						296,435
		Total assets			$	64,277		$	573,053		$	33,372		$	-12,332		$	658,370
	Future policy benefits(5)				$	0		$	0		$	8,182		$			$	8,182
	Other liabilities					1			6,883			5			-6,661			228
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			0			6,033						6,033
		Total liabilities			$	1		$	6,883		$	14,220		$	-6,661		$	14,443
					As of December 31, 2013(6)
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Netting(1)			Total
					(in millions)
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies			$	0		$	15,400		$	0		$			$	15,400
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			3,735			0						3,735
	Foreign government bonds					0			82,787			1						82,788
	Corporate securities					0			152,449			1,329						153,778
	Asset-backed securities					0			7,146			3,112						10,258
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			13,708			165						13,873
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			6,696			338						7,034
		Subtotal				0			281,921			4,945						286,866
	Trading account assets:(2)
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government
		authorities and agencies				0			266			0						266
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions					0			190			0						190
	Foreign government bonds					0			643			0						643
	Corporate securities					0			16,865			115						16,980
	Asset-backed securities					0			876			395						1,271
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					0			2,466			1						2,467
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					0			1,828			9						1,837
	Equity securities					1,309			225			842						2,376
	All other(3)					591			7,899			6			-7,246			1,250
		Subtotal				1,900			31,258			1,368			-7,246			27,280
	Equity securities, available-for-sale					6,938			2,668			304						9,910
Commercial mortgage and other loans					0			158			0						158
Other long-term investments					19			109			1,396			5			1,529
Short-term investments					6,139			1,046			0						7,185
Cash equivalents					2,461			4,521			0						6,982
Other assets					3			209			4						216
	Subtotal excluding separate account assets				17,460			321,890			8,017			-7,241			340,126
Separate account assets(4)					49,182			213,275			22,603						285,060
	Total assets			$	66,642		$	535,165		$	30,620		$	-7,241		$	625,186
Future policy benefits(5)				$	0		$	0		$	441		$			$	441
Other liabilities					1			9,458			5			-7,257			2,207
Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			0			3,254						3,254
	Total liabilities			$	1		$	9,458		$	3,700		$	-7,257		$	5,902
“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral of $5,671 million and ($16) million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty, subject to master netting arrangements.
Includes “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” and “Other trading account assets”.
Level 1 represents cash equivalents and short term investments. All other amounts primarily represent derivative assets.
Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account assets classified as Level 3 consist primarily of real estate and real estate investment funds. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position.
Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation							Year Ended December 31, 2014
							Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
							U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
							(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	0		$	1		$	1,329		$	3,112	$	165	$	338
		Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			20			17		4		0
			Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			0			45			24		-1		0
		Net investment income						0			0			0			-10			17		0		0
		Purchases						0			2			2			825			2,743		869		0
		Sales						0			-1			0			-636			-346		-11		0
		Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
		Settlements						0			0			0			-413			-1,046		-5		-12
		Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-66			-60		-1		-18
		Other(1)						0			0			0			4			53		0		-55
		Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			5			0			319			1,164		0		0
		Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			0			-1			-114			-1,619		-977		0
	Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	6		$	2		$	1,303		$	4,059	$	43	$	253
	Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held (3):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-20		$	2	$	0	$	0
							Year Ended December 31, 2014
							Trading Account Assets
							Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
										(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	115		$	395		$	1		$	9	$	842	$	6
		Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		1		0
				Other income				0			-7			0			0			0		13		1
		Net investment income						0			0			1			0			0		0		0
		Purchases						21			181			119			87			0		29		0
		Sales						0			-160			-21			0			0		-64		0
		Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
		Settlements						0			-10			-29			0			-1		-84		0
		Foreign currency translation						0			0			-2			0			0		-74		0
		Other(1)						0			0			2			-1			-1		0		0
		Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			9			47			5			0		0		0
		Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-4			-119			-87			0		0		0
	Fair Value, end of period						$	21		$	124		$	393		$	5		$	7	$	663	$	7
	Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held (3):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	1	$	0
				Other income			$	0		$	6		$	0		$	0		$	1	$	16	$	1
															Year Ended December 31, 2014
																	Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Other Assets
																(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period															$	304		$	0	$	1,396	$	4
		Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net													8			0		-8		0
				Other income													0			0		94		0
			Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														9			0		0		0
		Net investment income															0			0		-1		0
		Purchases															24			0		240		0
		Sales															-41			0		-2		0
		Issuances															0			0		0		0
		Settlements															0			0		-89		-2
		Foreign currency translation															-29			0		-9		0
		Other(1)															1			0		-79		0
		Transfers into Level 3(2)															7			0		5		0
		Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-8			0		0		0
	Fair Value, end of period															$	275		$	0	$	1,547	$	2
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													-2		$	0	$	-8	$	0
			Other income													0		$	0	$	94	$	0
															Year Ended December 31, 2014
															Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	22,603		$	-441	$	-5	$	-3,254
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													10			-6,831		2		201
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances													2,738			0		0		0
	Net investment income															24			0		0		0
	Purchases															1,801			0		0		0
	Sales															-710			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			-910		0		-2,980
	Settlements															-1,783			0		0		0
	Foreign currency translation															-1			0		0		0
	Other(1)															0			0		-2		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															100			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-120			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	24,662		$	-8,182	$	-5	$	-6,033
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	0		$	-6,853	$	2	$	201
			Interest credited to policyholders' account												$	1,760		$	0	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2013(5)
						Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
						U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	0		$	0		$	1,630		$	3,230	$	124	$	484
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			-30			29		37		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			-1			-18			-6		-19		-2
	Net investment income						0			0			0			-4			37		0		-2
	Purchases						0			0			4			477			2,412		438		0
	Sales						0			0			-1			-126			-320		-51		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			0			-2			-579			-1,175		-41		-55
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-127			-22		-9		-88
	Other(1)						0			0			0			0			-171		0		1
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			0			13			573			10		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			0			-12			-467			-912		-314		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	0		$	1		$	1,329		$	3,112	$	165	$	338
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-53		$	13	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2013(5)
						Trading Account Assets
						U.S. Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	134		$	419		$	10		$	12	$	1,098	$	25
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		0		-16
			Other income				0			-8			7			0			1		63		2
	Net investment income						0			0			5			1			0		0		0
	Purchases						0			23			319			74			0		17		0
	Sales						0			-13			-2			-1			0		-140		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						0			-49			-228			-2			-3		-43		-5
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			-6			-1			-2		-153		0
	Other(1)						0			0			-76			0			0		0		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			52			2			0			2		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-24			-45			-80			-1		0		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	115		$	395		$	1		$	9	$	842	$	6
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	0	$	-16
			Other income			$	0		$	-7		$	7		$	0		$	0	$	50	$	2
															Year Ended December 31, 2013
															Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Other Assets
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	330		$	48	$	1,053	$	8
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													13			5		0		-4
			Other income													0			0		160		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														58			0		0		0
	Purchases															37			0		439		0
	Sales															-65			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			0		0		0
	Settlements															-3			-53		-134		0
	Foreign currency translation															-53			0		-13		0
	Other(1)															-18			0		-109		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															6			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-1			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	304		$	0	$	1,396	$	4
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	-5		$	0	$	-2	$	-3
			Other income												$	0		$	0	$	155	$	0
															Year Ended December 31, 2013
															Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	21,132		$	-3,348	$	0	$	-1,406
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													2			3,741		-3		17
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances													2,649			0		0		0
	Net investment income															20			0		0		0
	Purchases															1,653			0		0		0
	Sales															-832			0		0		0
	Issuances															0			-836		0		-1,834
	Settlements															-2,120			0		0		-31
	Foreign currency translation															0			2		0		0
	Other(1)															140			0		-2		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															89			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-130			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	22,603		$	-441	$	-5	$	-3,254
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	0		$	3,647	$	-3	$	17
			Interest credited to policyholders' account												$	1,652		$	0	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2012(5)
						Fixed Maturities Available-For-Sale
						U.S. Government			U.S. States			Foreign Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed		Commercial Mortgage-Backed		Residential Mortgage-Backed
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	66		$	0		$	25		$	1,450		$	1,984	$	145	$	560
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			-35			21		25		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)					0			0			0			195			94		11		8
	Net investment income						0			0			0			8			32		-1		-1
	Purchases						0			10			0			375			2,602		44		38
	Sales						0			0			0			-165			-426		-28		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						-2			0			0			-325			-590		-14		-89
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			0			-38			-9		-5		-32
	Other(1)						-64			0			-8			71			0		0		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			0			8			306			60		37		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-10			-25			-212			-538		-90		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	0		$	0		$	1,630		$	3,230	$	124	$	484
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	-1		$	9	$	0	$	0
						Year Ended December 31, 2012(5)
						Trading Account Assets
						U.S. Government			Corporate			Asset-Backed			Commercial Mortgage-Backed			Residential Mortgage-Backed		Equity		All Other Activity
						(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period						$	9		$	148		$	403		$	35		$	17	$	1,296	$	93
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net				0			0			0			0			0		0		-73
			Other income				0			-7			16			2			2		88		2
	Net investment income						0			0			6			1			0		0		0
	Purchases						0			22			182			16			2		21		0
	Sales						0			-12			-12			-5			-3		-170		0
	Issuances						0			0			0			0			0		0		0
	Settlements						-2			-25			-110			-2			-4		-89		6
	Foreign currency translation						0			0			-3			-1			-1		-70		0
	Other(1)						-7			7			-1			0			-1		3		-3
	Transfers into Level 3(2)						0			5			4			82			0		20		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)						0			-4			-66			-118			0		-1		0
Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	134		$	419		$	10		$	12	$	1,098	$	25
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0	$	-1	$	-73
			Other income			$	0		$	-10		$	14		$	2		$	0	$	78	$	2
															Year Ended December 31, 2012
															Equity Securities Available-For-Sale			Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans		Other Long-term Investments		Short-term Investments
															(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period															$	360		$	86	$	1,110	$	0
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net													-1			2		1		-9
			Other income													0			0		126		0
		Included in other comprehensive income (loss)														29			0		0		0
	Net investment income															0			0		6		0
	Purchases															69			0		186		9
	Sales															-22			0		-25		0
	Issuances															0			0		0		0
	Settlements															0			-40		-296		0
	Foreign currency translation															-18			0		2		0
	Other(1)															0			0		7		0
	Transfers into Level 3(2)															5			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)															-92			0		-64		0
Fair Value, end of period															$	330		$	48	$	1,053	$	0
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net												$	-1		$	1	$	1	$	-9
			Other income												$	0		$	0	$	56	$	0
												Year Ended December 31, 2012
												Other Assets			Separate Account Assets(4)			Future Policy Benefits		Other Liabilities		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs
												(in millions)
Fair Value, beginning of period												$	9		$	19,358		$	-2,886	$	-3	$	-282
	Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net										0			0			231		-23		-4
			Other income										2			0			0		0		0
			Interest credited to policyholders' account balances										0			1,932			0		0		0
	Purchases												0			4,230			0		0		0
	Sales												-3			-1,697			0		0		0
	Issuances												0			0			-694		0		-1,412
	Settlements												0			-2,272			0		26		0
	Foreign currency translation												0			0			1		0		0
	Other(1)												0			0			0		0		292
	Transfers into Level 3(2)												0			326			0		0		0
	Transfers out of Level 3(2)												0			-745			0		0		0
Fair Value, end of period												$	8		$	21,132		$	-3,348	$	0	$	-1,406
Unrealized gains (losses) for assets/liabilities still held(3):
		Included in earnings:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net									$	0		$	0		$	146	$	-23	$	-4
			Other income									$	2		$	0		$	0	$	0	$	0
			Interest credited to policyholders' account									$	0		$	1,013		$	0	$	0	$	0
Other primarily represents reclassifications of certain assets between reporting categories.
Transfers into or out of Level 3 are reported as the value as of the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurs.
Unrealized gains or losses related to assets still held at the end of the period do not include amortization or accretion of premiums and discounts.
Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Derivatives					As of December 31, 2014
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3				Netting (1)		Total
					(in millions)
	Derivative assets:
		Interest Rate			$	5		$	10,584		$	6		$			$	10,595
		Currency				0			865			0						865
		Credit				0			7			0						7
		Currency/Interest Rate				0			1,885			0						1,885
		Equity				5			562			5						572
		Commodity				1			0			0						1
		Netting (1)													-12,332			-12,332
			Total derivative assets		$	11		$	13,903		$	11		$	-12,332		$	1,593
	Derivative liabilities:
		Interest Rate			$	3		$	4,948		$	3		$			$	4,954
		Currency				0			1,025			0						1,025
		Credit				0			30			0						30
		Currency/Interest Rate				0			307			0						307
		Equity				0			503			0						503
		Commodity				0			0			0						0
		Netting (1)													-6,661			-6,661
			Total derivative liabilities		$	3		$	6,813		$	3		$	-6,661		$	158
					As of December 31, 2013
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3				Netting (1)		Total
					(in millions)
	Derivative assets:
		Interest Rate			$	10		$	6,122		$	8		$			$	6,140
		Currency				0			593			0						593
		Credit				0			3			0						3
		Currency/Interest Rate				0			647			0						647
		Equity				14			376			0						390
		Commodity				1			0			0						1
		Netting (1)													-7,241			-7,241
			Total derivative assets		$	25		$	7,741		$	8		$	-7,241		$	533
	Derivative liabilities:
		Interest Rate			$	5		$	7,597		$	5		$			$	7,607
		Currency				0			425			0						425
		Credit				0			49			0						49
		Currency/Interest Rate				0			857			0						857
		Equity				1			474			0						475
		Commodity				0			0			0						0
		Netting (1)													-7,257			-7,257
			Total derivative liabilities		$	6		$	9,402		$	5		$	-7,257		$	2,156
	“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty.
Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Derivatives							Year Ended December 31, 2014
							Derivative			Derivative
							Assets -			Assets -
							Equity			Interest Rate
							(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period						$	0		$	3
		Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net				1			0
				Other income				0			0
		Purchases						0			0
		Sales						0			0
		Issuances						0			0
		Settlements						0			0
		Transfers into Level 3(1)						5			0
		Transfers out of Level 3(1)						0			0
	Fair Value, end of period						$	6		$	3
	Unrealized gains (losses) for the period relating to those Level 3
		assets that were still held at the end of the period:
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	1		$	0
				Other income			$	0		$	0
							Year Ended December 31, 2013
							Derivative			Derivative
							Assets -			Assets -
							Equity			Interest Rate
							(in millions)
	Fair Value, beginning of period						$	19		$	3
		Total gains (losses) (realized/unrealized):
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net				-15			0
				Other income				0			0
		Purchases						0			0
		Sales						0			0
		Issuances						0			0
		Settlements						-4			0
		Transfers into Level 3(1)						0			0
		Transfers out of Level 3(1)						0			0
	Fair Value, end of period						$	0		$	3
	Unrealized gains (losses) for the period relating to those Level 3
		assets that were still held at the end of the period:
			Included in earnings:
				Realized investment gains (losses), net			$	-15		$	0
				Other income			$	0		$	0
	Transfers into or out of Level 3 are generally reported as the value as of the beginning of the period in which the transfer occurs.
Fair Value, Option						Years Ended December 31,
					2014			2013			2012
					(in millions)
	Assets:
		Commercial mortgage and other loans:
			Changes in instrument-specific credit risk		$	0		$	0		$	0
			Other changes in fair value			0			0			-1
		Other long-term investments:
			Changes in fair value			54			68			40
	Liabilities:
		Notes issued by consolidated variable interest entities:
			Changes in fair value		$	-201		$	-17		$	2
Fair Value Disclosure Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value					31-Dec-14
					Fair Value												Carrying Amount(1)
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Total
					(in millions)
	Assets:
		Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			$	0		$	1,703		$	1,199		$	2,902		$	2,575
		Commercial mortgage and other loans				0			559			48,158			48,717			46,052
		Policy loans				0			0			11,712			11,712			11,712
		Other long-term investments				0			0			1,917			1,917			1,712
		Short-term investments				0			523			0			523			523
		Cash and cash equivalents				2,230			843			0			3,073			3,073
		Accrued investment income				0			3,130			0			3,130			3,130
		Other assets				143			2,106			109			2,358			2,358
			Total assets		$	2,373		$	8,864		$	63,095		$	74,332		$	71,135
	Liabilities:
		Policyholders' account balances - investment contracts			$	0		$	40,264		$	56,111		$	96,375		$	95,069
		Securities sold under agreements to repurchase				0			9,407			0			9,407			9,407
		Cash collateral for loaned securities				0			4,241			0			4,241			4,241
		Short-term debt				0			3,784			104			3,888			3,839
		Long-term debt				1,285			16,718			4,083			22,086			19,831
		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs				0			0			18			18			25
		Other liabilities				0			6,254			120			6,374			6,374
		Separate account liabilities - investment contracts				0			82,801			24,175			106,976			106,976
			Total liabilities		$	1,285		$	163,469		$	84,611		$	249,365		$	245,762
					31-Dec-13
					Fair Value												Carrying Amount(1)
					Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total			Total
					(in millions)
	Assets:
		Fixed maturities, held-to-maturity			$	0		$	2,065		$	1,488		$	3,553		$	3,312
		Commercial mortgage and other loans				0			639			42,010			42,649			40,850
		Policy loans				0			0			11,766			11,766			11,766
		Other long-term investments				0			0			2,470			2,470			2,203
		Short-term investments				0			518			0			518			518
		Cash and cash equivalents				3,661			796			0			4,457			4,457
		Accrued investment income				0			3,089			0			3,089			3,089
		Other assets				162			2,147			252			2,561			2,561
			Total assets		$	3,823		$	9,254		$	57,986		$	71,063		$	68,756
	Liabilities:
		Policyholders' account balances - investment contracts			$	0		$	39,347		$	57,253		$	96,600		$	95,476
		Securities sold under agreements to repurchase				0			7,898			0			7,898			7,898
		Cash collateral for loaned securities				0			5,040			0			5,040			5,040
		Short-term debt				0			2,718			0			2,718			2,669
		Long-term debt				1,078			19,453			5,038			25,569			23,553
		Notes issued by consolidated VIEs				0			0			39			39			48
		Other liabilities				0			5,803			266			6,069			6,069
		Separate account liabilities - investment contracts				0			82,071			22,163			104,234			104,234
			Total liabilities		$	1,078		$	162,330		$	84,759		$	248,167		$	244,987
	Carrying values presented herein differ from those in the Company's Consolidated Statement of Financial Position because certain items within the respective financial statement captions are not considered financial instruments or out of scope under authoritative guidance relating to disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments. Financial statement captions excluded from the above table are not considered financial instruments.
Fair Value Inputs Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]					As of December 31, 2014
					Fair Value			Valuation Techniques		Unobservable Inputs		Minimum		Maximum		Weighted Average	Impact of Increase in Input on Fair Value (1)
					(in millions)
	Assets:
	Corporate securities				$	752		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		0.84%	-	15%		7.73%	Decrease
								Market comparables		EBITDA multiples(2)		6.1X	-	7.0X		6.1X	Increase
								Liquidation		Liquidation value		22.12%	-	100.00%		82.92%	Increase
	Liabilities:
	Future policy
	benefits(4)				$	8,182		Discounted cash flow		Lapse rate(5)		0%	-	14%			Decrease
										NPR spread(6)		0%	-	1.30%			Decrease
										Utilization rate(7)		63%	-	96%			Increase
										Withdrawal rate(8)		74%	-	100%			Increase
										Mortality rate(9)		0%	-	14%			Decrease
										Equity volatility curve		17%	-	28%			Increase
					As of December 31, 2013
						Fair Value		Valuation Techniques		Unobservable Inputs		Minimum		Maximum		Weighted Average	Impact of Increase in Input on Fair Value (1)
					(in millions)
	Assets:
	Corporate securities				$	660		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		1.25%	-	15%		8.52%	Decrease
								Market comparables		EBITDA multiples(2)		5.0X	-	8.0X		6.0X	Increase
								Liquidation		Liquidation value		11.61%	-	100.00%		59.17%	Increase
	Asset-backed securities				$	209		Discounted cash flow		Prepayment rate(3)		11.11%	-	27.41%		19.91%	Increase
										Default rate(3)		2.00%	-	31.85%		8.63%	Decrease
										Loss severity(3)		15.06%	-	45.00%		33.00%	Decrease
										Liquidity premium		1.00%	-	2.00%		1.90%	Decrease
										Average life (years)		0.47	-	14.76		5.53	Increase
										Comparable spreads		0.19%	-	45.19%		6.76%	Decrease
										Comparable security yields		0.61%	-	10.00%		6.52%	Decrease
	Liabilities:
	Future policy
	benefits(4)				$	441		Discounted cash flow		Lapse rate(5)		0%	-	11%			Decrease
										NPR spread(6)		0.08%	-	1.09%			Decrease
										Utilization rate(7)		70%	-	94%			Increase
										Withdrawal rate(8)		86%	-	100%			Increase
										Mortality rate(9)		0%	-	13%			Decrease
										Equity volatility curve		15%	-	28%			Increase
	Conversely, the impact of a decrease in input would have the opposite impact for the fair value as that presented in the table.
	EBITDA multiples represent multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and are amounts used when the reporting entity has determined that market participants would use such multiples when pricing the investments.
	In isolation, an increase in prepayment rate or a decrease in default rate or loss severity would generally result in an increase in fair value, although the interrelationships between these inputs depend on specific market conditions.
	Future policy benefits primarily represent general account liabilities for the optional living benefit features of the Company's variable annuity contracts which are accounted for as embedded derivatives. Since the valuation methodology for these liabilities uses a range of inputs that vary at the contract level over the cash flow projection period, presenting a range, rather than weighted average, is a more meaningful representation of the unobservable inputs used in the valuation.
	Lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on the in-the-moneyness of the living benefit and reflect other factors, such as the applicability of any surrender charges. Lapse rates are reduced when contracts are more in-the-money. Lapse rates are also generally assumed to be lower for the period where surrender charges apply.
	To reflect NPR, the Company incorporates an additional spread over LIBOR into the discount rate used in the valuation of individual living benefit contracts in a liability position and generally not to those in a contra-liability position. The NPR spread reflects the financial strength ratings of the Company, as these are insurance liabilities and senior to debt. The additional spread over LIBOR is determined by utilizing the credit spreads associated with issuing funding agreements, adjusted for any illiquidity risk premium.
	The utilization rate assumption estimates the percentage of contracts that will utilize the benefit during the contract duration, and begin lifetime withdrawals at various time intervals from contract inception. The remaining contractholders are assumed to either begin lifetime withdrawals immediately or never utilize the benefit. Utilization assumptions may vary by product type, tax status, and age. The impact of changes in these assumptions is highly dependent on the product type, the age of the contractholder at the time of the sale, and the timing of the first lifetime income withdrawal.
	The withdrawal rate assumption estimates the magnitude of annual contractholder withdrawals relative to the maximum allowable amount under the contract. These assumptions may vary based on the product type, contractholder age, tax status, and withdrawal timing. The fair value of the liability will generally increase the closer the withdrawal rate is to 100%.
	Range reflects the mortality rate for the vast majority of business with living benefits, with policyholders ranging from 35 to 90 years old. While the majority of living benefits have a minimum age requirement, certain benefits do not have an age restriction. This results in contractholders for certain benefits with mortality rates approaching 0%. Based on historical experience, the Company applies a set of age and duration specific mortality rate adjustments compared to standard industry tables. A mortality improvement assumption is also incorporated into the overall mortality table.
Fair Value Level Three Amounts By Pricing Source [Table Text Block]					As of December 31, 2014
					Internal(1)			External(2)			Total
					(in millions)
	Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions				$	6		$	0		$	6
	Foreign government bonds					0			23			23
	Corporate securities					752			675			1,427
	Asset-backed securities					150			4,302			4,452
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					10			38			48
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					57			203			260
	Equity securities					140			798			938
	Other long-term investments					1			1,546			1,547
	Other assets					9			0			9
		Subtotal excluding separate account assets(3)				1,125			7,585			8,710
	Separate account assets					23,632			1,030			24,662
		Total assets			$	24,757		$	8,615		$	33,372
	Future policy benefits				$	8,182		$	0		$	8,182
	Other liabilities					2			3			5
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			6,033			6,033
		Total liabilities			$	8,184		$	6,036		$	14,220
					As of December 31, 2013
					Internal(1)			External(2)			Total
					(in millions)
	Foreign government bonds				$	0		$	1		$	1
	Corporate securities					660			784			1,444
	Asset-backed securities					209			3,298			3,507
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities					14			152			166
	Residential mortgage-backed securities					77			270			347
	Equity securities					141			1,005			1,146
	Other long-term investments					9			1,387			1,396
	Other assets					10			0			10
		Subtotal excluding separate account assets(3)				1,120			6,897			8,017
	Separate account assets					21,665			938			22,603
		Total assets			$	22,785		$	7,835		$	30,620
	Future policy benefits				$	441		$	0		$	441
	Other liabilities					5			0			5
	Notes issued by consolidated VIEs					0			3,254			3,254
		Total liabilities			$	446		$	3,254		$	3,700
	Represents valuations reflecting both internally-derived and market inputs, as well as third party pricing information or quotes. See below for additional information related to internally-developed valuation for significant items in the above table.
	Represents unadjusted prices from independent pricing services and independent indicative broker quotes where pricing inputs are not readily available.
	Includes assets classified as fixed maturities available-for-sale, trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets.

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value									31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
				Primary Underlying/						Gross Fair Value							Gross Fair Value
				Instrument Type					Notional(1)	Assets		Liabilities			Notional(1)(2)		Assets(2)		Liabilities(2)
								(in millions)
				Derivatives Designated as Hedge
				Accounting Instruments:
					Interest Rate
						Interest Rate Swaps		$	1,714	$	21	$	-191	$	2,556		$	26	$	-253
					Foreign Currency
						Foreign Currency Forwards			443		5		-14		534			1		-32
					Currency/Interest Rate
						Foreign Currency Swaps			10,772		679		-161		9,502			233		-553
						Total Qualifying Hedges		$	12,929	$	705	$	-366	$	12,592		$	260	$	-838
				Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
				Accounting Instruments:
					Interest Rate
						Interest Rate Swaps		$	182,937	$	9,904	$	-4,578	$	171,337		$	5,727	$	-7,051
						Interest Rate Futures			32,008		5		-3		34,424			10		-5
						Interest Rate Options			27,561		663		-180		25,308			370		-297
						Interest Rate Forwards			877		2		-1		1,452			0		-6
					Foreign Currency
						Foreign Currency Forwards			21,197		854		-1,011		13,122			587		-393
						Foreign Currency Options			203		6		0		118			5		0
					Currency/Interest Rate
						Foreign Currency Swaps			11,083		1,207		-145		7,787			414		-304
					Credit
						Credit Default Swaps			2,622		7		-30		1,890			3		-49
					Equity
						Equity Futures			331		3		0		262			1		-1
						Equity Options			57,590		504		-41		61,231			388		-12
						Total Return Swaps			15,217		65		-462		11,554			1		-462
					Commodity
						Commodity Futures			18		1		0		37			1		0
					Synthetic GICs(3)				74,707		6		0		78,110			8		0
						Total Non-Qualifying Derivatives(4)		$	426,351	$	13,227	$	-6,451	$	406,632		$	7,515	$	-8,580
						Total Derivatives(5)		$	439,280	$	13,932	$	-6,817	$	419,224		$	7,775	$	-9,418
	Notional amounts are presented on a gross basis and include derivatives used to offset existing positions.
	Prior period has been revised to include the gross notional amount and fair value of derivative contracts used in a broker-dealer capacity.
	The gross notional amount as of December 31, 2013 has been revised from $60,758 million to $78,110 million to correct the previously reported amount. This amount does not impact the Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Based on notional amounts, most of the Company's derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting as follows: i) derivatives that economically hedge embedded derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting because changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives are already recorded in net income, ii) derivatives that are utilized as macro hedges of the Company's exposure to various risks typically do not qualify for hedge accounting because they do not meet the criteria required under portfolio hedge accounting rules, and iii) synthetic GICs, which are product standalone derivatives that do not qualify as hedging instruments under hedge accounting rules.
	Excludes embedded derivatives which contain multiple underlyings. The fair value of these embedded derivatives was a net liability of $8,162 million as of December 31, 2014 and a net liability of $430 million as of December 31, 2013, primarily included in “Future policy benefits.”
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]						31-Dec-14
								Gross		Net
						Gross		Amounts		Amounts
						Amounts of		Offset in the		Presented in
						Recognized		Statement of		the Statement		Financial
						Financial		Financial		of Financial		Instruments/			Net
						Instruments		Position		Position		Collateral(1)			Amount
						(in millions)
	Offsetting of Financial Assets:
	Derivatives(1)					$	13,786	$	-12,332	$	1,454	$	-623		$	831
	Securities purchased under agreement to resell						702		0		702		-702			0
	Total Assets					$	14,488	$	-12,332	$	2,156	$	-1,325		$	831
	Offsetting of Financial Liabilities:
	Derivatives(1)					$	6,810	$	-6,661	$	149	$	-149		$	0
	Securities sold under agreement to repurchase						9,407		0		9,407		-9,407			0
	Total Liabilities					$	16,217	$	-6,661	$	9,556	$	-9,556		$	0
						31-Dec-13
								Gross		Net
						Gross		Amounts		Amounts
						Amounts of		Offset in the		Presented in
						Recognized		Statement of		the Statement		Financial
						Financial		Financial		of Financial		Instruments/			Net
						Instruments		Position		Position		Collateral(1)			Amount
						(in millions)
	Offsetting of Financial Assets:
	Derivatives(1)					$	7,721	$	-7,241	$	480	$	-480		$	0
	Securities purchased under agreement to resell						656		0		656		-656			0
	Total Assets					$	8,377	$	-7,241	$	1,136	$	-1,136		$	0
	Offsetting of Financial Liabilities:
	Derivatives(1)					$	9,408	$	-7,257	$	2,151	$	-1,999		$	152
	Securities sold under agreement to repurchase						7,898		0		7,898		-7,898			0
	Total Liabilities					$	17,306	$	-7,257	$	10,049	$	-9,897		$	152
	Amounts exclude the excess of collateral received/pledged from/to the counterparty. Prior period has been revised to conform to current period presentation.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance
						Year Ended December 31, 2014
														Interest
														Credited			Accumulated
						Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
						Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
						Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
							(in millions)
	Derivatives Designated as Hedge
	Accounting Instruments:
	Fair value hedges
		Interest Rate				$	-4	$	-57	$	0	$	0	$	2		$	0
		Currency					-9		-1		0		0		0			0
		Total fair value hedges					-13		-58		0		0		2			0
	Cash flow hedges
		Interest Rate					0		0		0		-22		0			38
		Currency/Interest Rate					0		7		67		0		0			614
		Total cash flow hedges					0		7		67		-22		0			652
	Net investment hedges
		Currency					0		0		0		0		0			17
		Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			128
			Total net investment hedges				0		0		0		0		0			145
	Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
	Accounting Instruments:
		Interest Rate					7,623		0		0		0		0			0
		Currency					-562		0		0		0		0			0
		Currency/Interest Rate					1,124		0		5		0		0			0
		Credit					-22		0		0		0		0			0
		Equity					-1,605		0		0		0		0			0
		Commodity					1		0		0		0		0			0
		Embedded Derivatives					-6,734		0		0		0		0			0
		Total non-qualifying hedges					-175		0		5		0		0			0
	Total					$	-188	$	-51	$	72	$	-22	$	2		$	797
						Year Ended December 31, 2013
														Interest
														Credited			Accumulated
						Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
						Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
						Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
							(in millions)
	Derivatives Designated as Hedge
	Accounting Instruments:
	Fair value hedges
		Interest Rate				$	103	$	-71	$	0	$	0	$	20		$	0
		Currency					-80		-1		0		0		0			0
		Total fair value hedges					23		-72		0		0		20			0
	Cash flow hedges
		Interest Rate					0		0		0		-23		0			26
		Currency/Interest Rate					0		2		-91		0		0			-215
		Total cash flow hedges					0		2		-91		-23		0			-189
	Net investment hedges
		Currency(2)					0		0		-4		0		0			6
		Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			233
		Total net investment hedges					0		0		-4		0		0			239
	Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
	Accounting Instruments:
		Interest Rate					-5,254		0		0		0		0			0
		Currency					-591		0		0		0		0			0
		Currency/Interest Rate					131		0		-2		0		0			0
		Credit					-4		0		0		0		0			0
		Equity					-3,684		0		0		0		0			0
		Commodity					1		0		0		0		0			0
		Embedded Derivatives					3,752		0		0		0		0			0
		Total non-qualifying hedges					-5,649		0		-2		0		0			0
Total					$	-5,626	$	-70	$	-97	$	-23	$	20		$	50
					Year Ended December 31, 2012
													Interest
													Credited			Accumulated
					Realized		Net						To Policyholders'			Other
					Investment		Investment		Other		Interest		Account			Comprehensive
					Gains (Losses)		Income		Income		Expense		Balances			Income (Loss)(1)
						(in millions)
Derivatives Designated as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
Fair value hedges
	Interest Rate				$	22	$	-92	$	0	$	4	$	33		$	0
	Currency					-37		-3		0		0		0			0
	Total fair value hedges					-15		-95		0		4		33			0
Cash flow hedges
	Interest Rate					0		0		0		-19		-1			14
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		-5		-20		0		0			-185
	Total cash flow hedges					0		-5		-20		-19		-1			-171
Net investment hedges
	Currency(2)					-1		0		0		0		0			-9
	Currency/Interest Rate					0		0		0		0		0			228
			Total net investment hedges			-1		0		0		0		0			219
Derivatives Not Qualifying as Hedge
Accounting Instruments:
	Interest Rate					413		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency					-64		0		0		0		0			0
	Currency/Interest Rate					235		0		0		0		0			0
	Credit					-34		0		0		0		0			0
	Equity					-2,302		0		0		0		0			0
	Commodity					0		0		0		0		0			0
	Embedded Derivatives					251		0		0		0		0			0
	Total non-qualifying hedges					-1,501		0		0		0		0			0
Total					$	-1,517	$	-100	$	-20	$	-15	$	32		$	48
Amounts deferred in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”
Relates to the sale of equity method investments.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income(Loss) Before Taxes
						(in millions)
	Balance, December 31, 2011					$	-86
	Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2012						-219
	Amount reclassified into current period earnings						48
	Balance, December 31, 2012						-257
	Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2013						-317
	Amount reclassified into current period earnings						128
	Balance, December 31, 2013						-446
	Net deferred gains (losses) on cash flow hedges from January 1 to December 31, 2014						706
	Amount reclassified into current period earnings						-54
	Balance, December 31, 2014					$	206

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated				Years Ended December 31,
				2014			2013		2012
	Net gains (losses) from(1):			(in millions)
		Terminated hedges of foreign currency earnings		$	293		$	240	$	-75
		Current period yield adjustments		$	476		$	445	$	320
		Principal source of earnings		$	100		$	122	$	91
	In addition to the items in the table above, “Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments” also includes an adjustment to reflect “Realized investment gains (losses), net” related to divested businesses as results of “Divested businesses”, discussed below.
				Years Ended December 31,
				2014			2013		2012
	Net gains (losses) from:			(in millions)
		Other trading account assets		$	-21		$	168	$	102
		Foreign currency exchange movements		$	-3,023		$	-4,060	$	-1,750
		Other activities		$	13		$	167	$	29
							Years Ended December 31,
							2014		2013		2012
							(in millions)
	Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes by Segment:
		Individual Annuities					$	1,467	$	2,085	$	1,039
		Retirement						1,215		1,039		638
		Asset Management						785		723		584
					Total U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division			3,467		3,847		2,261
		Individual Life						498		583		384
		Group Insurance						23		157		16
					Total U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division			521		740		400
		International Insurance						3,252		3,152		2,704
					Total International Insurance Division			3,252		3,152		2,704
		Corporate Operations						-1,348		-1,370		-1,338
					Total Corporate and Other			-1,348		-1,370		-1,338
		Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes						5,892		6,369		4,027
			Reconciling items:
			Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related adjustments					-3,588		-9,956		-3,666
			Charges related to realized investment gains (losses), net					-542		1,807		857
			Investment gains (losses) on trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, net					339		-250		610
			Change in experience-rated contractholder liabilities due to asset value changes					-294		227		-540
			Divested businesses					167		29		-615
			Closed Block Segment					-259		62		64
			Equity in earnings of operating joint ventures and earnings attributable to noncontrolling
				interests				44		28		-29
	Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of
		operating joint ventures					$	1,759	$	-1,684	$	708
Reconcilliation of Certain Financial Information from Segments to Consolidated						Total Assets
						As of December 31,
							2014			2013
						(in millions)
	Financial Services Businesses:
		Individual Annuities					$	174,951	$	160,778
		Retirement						179,674		170,762
		Asset Management						50,214		45,040
			Total U.S. Retirement Solutions and Investment Management Division					404,839		376,580
		Individual Life						70,152		64,990
		Group Insurance						41,125		39,185
			Total U.S. Individual Life and Group Insurance Division					111,277		104,175
		International Insurance						171,635		168,677
			Total International Insurance Division					171,635		168,677
		Corporate Operations						8,013		13,947
			Total Corporate and Other					8,013		13,947
				Total Financial Services Businesses				695,764		663,379
	Closed Block Business							70,891		68,402
	Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	766,655	$	731,781
							Year Ended December 31, 2014
							Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
							(in millions)
	Financial Services Businesses:
		Individual Annuities					$	4,710	$	630	$	481	$	429	$	0	$	107	$	543
		Retirement						12,077		4,209		8,336		1,476		0		25		31
		Asset Management						2,840		120		0		0		0		10		20
			Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
				and Investment Management Division				19,627		4,959		8,817		1,905		0		142		594
		Individual Life						5,226		1,620		2,108		606		32		533		345
		Group Insurance						5,357		613		4,215		248		0		9		8
			Total U.S. Individual Life and
				Group Insurance Division				10,583		2,233		6,323		854		32		542		353
		International Insurance						20,066		4,434		12,234		961		50		4		961
			Total International Insurance Division					20,066		4,434		12,234		961		50		4		961
		Corporate Operations						-632		420		83		0		0		620		-55
			Total Corporate and Other					-632		420		83		0		0		620		-55
				Total				49,644		12,046		27,457		3,720		82		1,308		1,853
	Reconciling items:
		Realized investment gains (losses),
			net, and related adjustments					-3,588		-5		0		0		0		0		0
		Charges related to realized
			investment gains (losses), net					55		0		295		111		-1		0		83
		Investment gains (losses) on trading
			account assets supporting
			insurance liabilities, net					339		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Change in experience-rated
			contractholder liabilities due
			to assets value changes					0		0		0		294		0		0		0
		Divested businesses						762		208		509		2		0		3		0
		Equity in earnings of operating joint
			ventures and earnings attributable
			to noncontrolling interests					-13		0		0		0		0		0		0
			Total Financial Services Businesses					47,199		12,249		28,261		4,127		81		1,311		1,936
	Closed Block Business							6,906		3,007		3,326		136		2,635		597		37
	Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	54,105	$	15,256	$	31,587	$	4,263	$	2,716	$	1,908	$	1,973
							Year Ended December 31, 2013
							Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
							(in millions)
	Financial Services Businesses:
		Individual Annuities					$	4,465	$	693	$	77	$	381	$	0	$	91	$	257
		Retirement						6,028		4,067		2,461		1,529		0		26		15
		Asset Management						2,678		87		0		0		0		11		25
			Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
				and Investment Management Division				13,171		4,847		2,538		1,910		0		128		297
	Individual Life						4,620		1,406		1,869		576		33		407		111
	Group Insurance						5,518		585		4,299		232		0		7		10
		Total U.S. Individual Life and
			Group Insurance Division				10,138		1,991		6,168		808		33		414		121
	International Insurance						22,540		4,306		14,499		984		107		3		1,011
		Total International Insurance Division					22,540		4,306		14,499		984		107		3		1,011
	Corporate Operations						-568		386		-35		0		0		715		-35
		Total Corporate and Other					-568		386		-35		0		0		715		-35
			Total				45,281		11,530		23,170		3,702		140		1,260		1,394
Reconciling items:
	Realized investment gains (losses),
		net, and related adjustments					-9,960		-13		0		0		0		0		0
	Charges related to realized
		investment gains (losses), net					-199		0		-225		-500		0		0		-1,191
	Investment gains (losses) on trading
		account assets supporting
		insurance liabilities, net					-250		0		0		0		0		0		0
	Change in experience-rated
		contractholder liabilities due
		to assets value changes					0		0		0		-227		0		0		0
	Divested businesses						631		196		454		0		0		1		0
	Equity in earnings of operating joint
		ventures and earnings attributable
		to noncontrolling interests					-78		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Total Financial Services Businesses					35,425		11,713		23,399		2,975		140		1,261		203
Closed Block Business							6,036		3,016		3,334		136		1,910		148		37
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	41,461	$	14,729	$	26,733	$	3,111	$	2,050	$	1,409	$	240
						Year Ended December 31, 2012
						Revenues		Net Investment Income		Policyholders' Benefits		Interest Credited to Policyholders' Account Balances		Dividends to Policyholders		Interest Expense		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
						(in millions)
Financial Services Businesses:
	Individual Annuities					$	3,983	$	770	$	573	$	452	$	0	$	109	$	338
	Retirement(1)						36,595		3,203		33,317		1,695		0		20		49
	Asset Management						2,376		107		0		0		0		15		24
		Total U.S. Retirement Solutions
			and Investment Management Division				42,954		4,080		33,890		2,147		0		144		411
	Individual Life						3,367		1,033		1,210		329		31		316		419
	Group Insurance						5,601		586		4,528		228		0		7		5
		Total U.S. Individual Life and
			Group Insurance Division				8,968		1,619		5,738		557		31		323		424
	International Insurance						29,586		4,268		20,981		1,122		124		3		1,173
		Total International Insurance Division					29,586		4,268		20,981		1,122		124		3		1,173
	Corporate Operations						-405		403		136		-22		0		773		-42
		Total Corporate and Other					-405		403		136		-22		0		773		-42
			Total				81,103		10,370		60,745		3,804		155		1,243		1,966
Reconciling items:
	Realized investment gains (losses),
		net, and related adjustments					-3,671		-24		0		0		0		0		0
	Charges related to realized
		investment gains (losses), net					-108		0		-2		-247		0		0		-716
	Investment gains (losses) on trading
		account assets supporting
		insurance liabilities, net					610		0		0		0		0		0		0
	Change in experience-rated
		contractholder liabilities due
		to assets value changes					0		0		0		540		0		0		0
	Divested businesses						735		162		943		0		0		0		216
	Equity in earnings of operating joint
		ventures and earnings attributable
		to noncontrolling interests					-79		0		0		0		0		0		0
		Total Financial Services Businesses					78,590		10,508		61,686		4,097		155		1,243		1,466
Closed Block Business							6,257		3,153		3,445		137		2,021		148		38
Total per Consolidated Financial Statements						$	84,847	$	13,661	$	65,131	$	4,234	$	2,176	$	1,391	$	1,504
In 2012, the Company completed significant non-participating group annuity pension risk transfer transactions with two unaffiliated pension plan sponsors. The premiums from these transactions contributed approximately $31.8 billion to revenue in the Retirement segment. These premiums were largely offset by a corresponding increase in policyholders' benefits.
Schedule Of Revenues From Domestic And Foreign Operations
				2014			2013		2012
					(in millions)
	Domestic operations			$	35,793		$	22,222	$	56,684
	Foreign operations, total			$	18,312		$	19,239	$	28,163
	Foreign operations, Japan			$	15,461		$	16,523	$	26,393
	Foreign operations, Korea			$	1,484		$	1,437	$	1,294
Schedule Of Intersegment Revenues
				2014			2013		2012
					(in millions)
	Asset Management segment intersegment revenues			$	645		$	611	$	545

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con1

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities, and Litigation and Regulatory Matters (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block]				Operating and Capital Leases(1)			Sub-lease Income
			(in millions)
	2015			$	123		$	-1
	2016				106			0
	2017				93			0
	2018				71			0
	2019				55			0
	2020 and thereafter				181			0
		Total		$	629		$	-1
	(1) Future minimum lease payments under capital leases were $28 million as of December 31, 2014.
Insolvency Assessment [Table Text Block]					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Other assets:
		Premium tax offset for future undiscounted assessments			$	92		$	78
		Premium tax offsets currently available for paid assessments				6			5
			Total		$	98		$	83
	Other liabilities:
		Insolvency assessments			$	39		$	46
Guarantee Type, Other [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Other guarantees where amount can be determined				$	331		$	404
	Accrued liability for other guarantees and indemnifications				$	5		$	7
Credit Enhancements [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Guarantees of credit enhancements of debt instruments associated with commercial real estate assets		$	5		$	156
			Fair value of properties and associated tax credits that secure the guarantee		$	8		$	220
			Accrued liability associated with guarantee		$	0		$	0
Securities Lending Transactions [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Indemnification provided to mutual fund and separate account clients for securities lending				$	14,334		$	15,598
	Fair value of related collateral associated with above indemnifications				$	14,740		$	15,965
	Accrued liability associated with guarantee				$	0		$	0
Serviced Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Maximum exposure under indemnification agreements for mortgage loans serviced by the Company		$	1,248		$	1,173
			First-loss exposure portion of above		$	388		$	371
			Accrued liability associated with guarantees		$	16		$	17
Asset Values [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
			Guaranteed value of third parties' assets		$	74,707		$	78,110
			Fair value of collateral supporting these assets		$	76,711		$	79,458
			Asset associated with guarantee, carried at fair value		$	6		$	8
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees					As of December 31,
					2014			2013
					(in millions)
	Total outstanding mortgage loan commitments				$	2,442		$	2,365
	Portion of commitment where prearrangement to sell to investor exists				$	958		$	587
Investments Excluding Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Commitments and Guarantees						As of December 31,
						2014			2013
						(in millions)
	Expected to be funded from the general account and other operations outside the
			separate accounts (1)			$	4,883		$	5,461
	Expected to be funded from separate accounts					$	28		$	274
	(1) Includes a remaining commitment of $194 million and $256 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the Company's agreement to co-invest with the Fosun Group (Fosun) in a private equity fund, managed by Fosun, for the Chinese marketplace.

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation1

Quarterly Results of Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]			Three Months Ended
			31-Mar		30-Jun		30-Sep		31-Dec
				(in millions, except per share amounts)
	2014
	Total revenues		$	12,854	$	13,146	$	12,380	$	15,725
	Total benefits and expenses			11,136		11,639		12,096		17,475
	Income (loss) from continuing operations			1,245		1,109		523		-1,451
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations			4		4		0		4
	Net income (loss)			1,249		1,113		523		-1,447
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests			11		23		11		12
	Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.			1,238		1,090		512		-1,459
	Basic earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.62	$	2.25	$	1	$	-2.7
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0.01		0.01		0		0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.63	$	2.26	$	1	$	-2.69
	Diluted earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.58	$	2.21	$	0.99	$	-2.7
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0.01		0.01		0		0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	2.59	$	2.22	$	0.99	$	-2.69
	Basic and diluted earnings per share - Class B Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	7.5	$	22	$	25	$	-180.77
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0		0.77
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	7.5	$	22	$	25	$	-180
	2013
	Total revenues		$	10,171	$	10,041	$	11,310	$	9,939
	Total benefits and expenses			11,730		10,810		9,784		10,821
	Income (loss) from continuing operations			-686		-489		1,032		-424
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations			1		2		8		-4
	Net income (loss)			-685		-487		1,040		-428
	Less: Income attributable to noncontrolling interests			35		27		13		32
	Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.			-720		-514		1,027		-460
	Basic earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.06	$	-0.93
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0.01		-0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.07	$	-0.94
	Diluted earnings per share - Common Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.02	$	-0.93
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0.02		-0.01
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	-1.58	$	-1.12	$	2.04	$	-0.94
	Basic and diluted earnings per share - Class B Stock(1):
		Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	5.5	$	1	$	29.5	$	-14
		Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes		0		0		0		0
		Net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$	5.5	$	1	$	29.5	$	-14
	Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Recovered_Sheet3

Business And Basis Of Presentation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 18, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Out of Period Adjustment		$160,000,000
Class B Stock Repurchase and IHC Debt Redemption
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)				651,000,000	651,000,000		0
IHC Debt Redemption	2,100,000,000
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Class B Stock Repurchase and IHC Debt Redemption
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired			2	2
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Class B Stock Repurchase and IHC Debt Redemption
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired				2
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)			650,800,000	650,800,000	650,800,000
Real Estate Investment [Member]
Out of Period Adjustment		61,000,000
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments		75,000,000
Certain Employee Benefit Liabilities [Member]
Out of Period Adjustment		54,000,000
Variable Annuity
Out of Period Adjustment				35,000,000	63,000,000	45,000,000
Long-term disability
Out of Period Adjustment		61,000,000		58,000,000		48,000,000
Deferred Profit Liability [Member]
Out of Period Adjustment				43,000,000
Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Equity In Earnings Of Operating Joint Ventures [Member]
Out of Period Adjustment		$170,000,000		193,000,000		$156,000,000	$116,000,000	($116,000,000)

Significant_Accounting_Policie2

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

Contractual Due Date

The Company defines “past due” as principal or interest not collected at least 30 days past the scheduled contractual due date

Accruing interest on Non performing Loans

The Company discontinues accruing interest on loans after the loans become 90 days delinquent as to principal or interest payments, or earlier when the Company has doubts about collectability

Loan-to-value ratios

100.00%

Debt service coverage ratios

1

Partnership interest

or under the cost method when the Company’s partnership interest is so minor (generally less than 3%) that it exercises virtually no influence over operating and financial policies

Other income

($1,978)

($3,199)

($269)

Uncertain Tax Positions Measurement Percentage

50.00%

Net income (loss)

-1,447

523

1,113

1,249

-428

1,040

-487

-685

1,438

-560

570

Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock

($2.69)

[1]

$0.99

[1]

$2.22

[1]

$2.59

[1]

($0.94)

[1]

$2.04

[1]

($1.12)

[1]

($1.58)

[1]

Foreign Currency Gain Loss [Member]

Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

Other income

($3,000)

($4,100)

($1,800)

Financial Services Business [Member]

Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock

$3.23

($1.55)

$1.05

Minimum [Member]

Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

Securities loaned transactions collateral

102.00%

Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life

3 years

Maximum [Member]

Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]

Securities loaned transactions collateral

105.00%

Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life

40 years

[1]

         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Significant_Accounting_Policie3

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements - Accounting Change (Impact on BS) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Other assets		$13,379	[1]	$13,833	[1]
Total assets		766,655		731,781
Income taxes		9,881		5,422
Other liabilities(1)		13,037	[1]	13,925	[1]
Total liabilities		724,306		695,900
Retained Earnings	483.8	14,888		14,531
Total Prudential Financial, Inc. equity		41,770		35,278
Noncontrolling interests		579		603
Total equity		42,349		35,881		39,112	34,639
Total liabilities and equity		$766,655		$731,781
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Significant_Accounting_Policie4

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements - Accounting Change (Impact on IS) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other income																	($1,978)	($3,199)	($269)
Total revenues	15,725		12,380		13,146		12,854		9,939		11,310		10,041		10,171		54,105	41,461	84,847
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Operating Joint Ventures																	1,759	-1,684	708
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)																	-27	-1,092	-875
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)																	349	-1,058	213
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Operating Joint Ventures																	1,410	-626	495
Income from continuing operations	-1,451		523		1,109		1,245		-424		1,032		-489		-686		1,426	-567	555
Net income (loss)	-1,447		523		1,113		1,249		-428		1,040		-487		-685		1,438	-560	570
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests	12		11		23		11		32		13		27		35		57	107	50
Net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	($1,459)		$512		$1,090		$1,238		($460)		$1,027		($514)		($720)		$1,381	($667)	$520
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	($2.70)		$1		$2.25		$2.62		($0.93)	[1]	$2.06	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Basic net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock	($2.69)		$1		$2.26		$2.63		($0.94)	[1]	$2.07	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	($2.70)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.21	[1]	$2.58	[1]	($0.93)	[1]	$2.02	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock	($2.69)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.22	[1]	$2.59	[1]	($0.94)	[1]	$2.04	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Financial Services Business [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share																	$3.23	($1.57)	$1.02
Basic net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock																	$3.25	($1.55)	$1.06
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share																	$3.20	($1.57)	$1.01
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock																	$3.23	($1.55)	$1.05
[1]	         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Significant_Accounting_Policie5

Significant Accounting Policies and Pronouncements- Accounting Change (Impact on CF) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net income (loss)	($1,447)	$523	$1,113	$1,249	($428)	$1,040	($487)	($685)	$1,438	($560)	$570
Other, net									$6,421	($2,666)	$170

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_1

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Narrative) (Details)

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2014

Jan. 02, 2013

Jan. 02, 2014

Jan. 02, 2014

Jan. 02, 2014

Oct. 28, 2014

Oct. 28, 2014

Oct. 28, 2014

Oct. 28, 2014

Oct. 28, 2014

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Bank Simpanan Nasional [Member]

Hartford [Member]

Uni Asia Life Assurance Berhad [Member]

Uni Asia Life Assurance Berhad [Member]

Uni Asia Life Assurance Berhad [Member]

AFP Habitat [Member]

AFP Habitat [Member]

AFP Habitat [Member]

AFP Habitat [Member]

AFP Habitat [Member]

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Prudential Insurance [Member]

Bank Simpanan Nasional [Member]

CLP

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

USD ($)

USD ($)

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Percentage of shares acquired

34.00%

40.00%

Acquisition Price per Share

925

Ceding Commission Paid

$615,000,000

Number of Life Insurance Policies Acquired

700,000

Net Retained Face Amount of Life Insurance In Force Acquired

141,000,000,000

Total assets acquired

11,200,000,000

744,000,000

Value Of Business Acquired VOBA

2,836,000,000

[1]

3,675,000,000

3,248,000,000

3,845,000,000

6,000,000

1,400,000,000

Cash and Cash Equivalvents Acquired

100,000,000

88,000,000

Total liabilities assumed

10,600,000,000

586,000,000

Goodwill

831,000,000

839,000,000

873,000,000

888,000,000

19,000,000

Cash paid for business acquisition

$158,000,000

$530,000,000

$620,000,000

Percentage of cash paid for business acquired

70.00%

30.00%

[1]

The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_2

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Income (Loss) from Discontinued Businesses Including Charges upon Disposition) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes									$18		$10		$23
Income tax expense (benefit)									6		3		8
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes	4	0	4	4	-4	8	2	1	12		7		15
Real Estate Investment [Member]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes									18	[1]	9	[1]	22	[1]
Global Commodities Business [Member]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes									1		1		0
Other Discontinued Ops [Member]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes									($1)		$0		$1
[1]	Reflects the income from discontinued real estate investments.

Acquisitions_and_Dispositions_3

Acquisitions and Dispositions (Total Assets and Total Liabilities Related to Discontinued Businesses Included in Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract]
Total assets	$5	$15
Total liabilities	$5	$7

Investments_Narrative_Details

Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) from trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities	$144		($485)		$689
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) from other trading account assets	-108		188		264
Net investment income	15,256		14,729		13,661
Net carrying value of commercial loans held for sale	380		158
Gross unrealized losses related to high or highest quality securities	1,156		4,178
Gross unrealized losses related to other than high or highest quality securities	200		274
Gross unrealized losses representing declines in value of greater than 20%	13		4
Gross unrealized losses in a continuous loss position for less than six months	0		0
Twelve months or more Unrealized Losses	901		2,194
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	2,575	[1],[2]	3,312	[1]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	2,902	[2]	3,553
Troubled Debt Restructuring Commitment To Borrowers	0		0
Non Income Producing Assets, Fixed Maturities	506
Non Income Producing Assets, Loans	15
Non Income Producing Assets, Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities	8
Consolidated Feeder Funds Investments in Master Funds	82		52
Unaffiliated Interest in Consolidated Feeder Funds	0		0
Master Funds Gross Assets	12,666		972
Master Funds Gross Liabilities	11,979		794
Restricted Cash and Investments	143		162
Assets Deposited With Governmental Authorities	168		211
Available-for-sale Securities, Restricted	164		186
Assets Held In Voluntary Trusts	606		594
Non Income Producing Assets, Other Long Term Investments	5
Prudential Netting Agreement [Member]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	3,588		2,400
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	3,953		2,461
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	2,575	[3]	3,312	[4]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	$2,902	[3]	$3,553	[4]
California [Member]
Commercial mortgage loan, concentration percentage	26.00%
New York [Member]
Commercial mortgage loan, concentration percentage	9.00%
Texas [Member]
Commercial mortgage loan, concentration percentage	9.00%
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[3]	Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[4]	Prior period’s amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.

Investments_Fixed_Maturities_a

Investments (Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities Excluding Investments Classified as Trading) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	$265,116		$268,727
Available For Sale Securities Equity Securities Cost	6,921		7,003
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	299,090	[1]	286,866	[1]
Equity Securites, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)	9,861		9,910
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	605	[2]	765	[3]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	2,575	[1],[4]	3,312	[1]
Fair Value	2,902	[4]	3,553
Net unrealized gains on impaired available for sale securities relating to changes in value of securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date	954		875
Net Unrealized Gains On Impaired Held To Maturity Securities	1		1
US Treasury And Government [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	0	[2]	0	[3]
Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	0	[2]	0	[3]
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	1	[2]	-1	[3]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	6	[2]	4	[3]
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	592	[2]	755	[3]
Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	1	[2]	0	[3]
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments in AOCI	5	[2]	7	[3]
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	265,116		268,727	[5]
Gross Unrealized Gains	35,329		22,566	[5]
Gross Unrealized Losses	1,355		4,427	[5]
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	299,090		286,866	[5]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	2,575	[6]	3,312	[5]
Gross Unrealized Gains	328	[6]	265	[5]
Gross Unrealized Losses	1	[6]	24	[5]
Fair Value	2,902	[6]	3,553	[5]
Fixed Maturities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	15,807		13,754
Gross Unrealized Gains	4,321		1,742
Gross Unrealized Losses	5		96
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	20,123		15,400
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	5,720		3,598
Gross Unrealized Gains	814		274
Gross Unrealized Losses	3		137
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	6,531		3,735
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	69,894		75,595
Gross Unrealized Gains	11,164		7,459
Gross Unrealized Losses	117		266
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	80,941		82,788
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	821		938
Gross Unrealized Gains	184		117
Gross Unrealized Losses	0		0
Fair Value	1,005		1,055
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	143,631		145,091
Gross Unrealized Gains	17,799		12,095
Gross Unrealized Losses	1,054		3,408
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	160,376		153,778
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	713	[6]	904
Gross Unrealized Gains	68	[6]	50
Gross Unrealized Losses	1	[6]	24
Fair Value	780	[6]	930
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	10,966	[7]	10,370	[8]
Gross Unrealized Gains	353	[7]	203	[8]
Gross Unrealized Losses	134	[7]	315	[8]
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	11,185	[7]	10,258	[8]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	0	[7]	1	[8]
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	[7]	0	[8]
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	[7]	0	[8]
Fair Value	0	[7]	1	[8]
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	13,486		13,633
Gross Unrealized Gains	430		403
Gross Unrealized Losses	39		163
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	13,877		13,873
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	78		166
Gross Unrealized Gains	7		18
Gross Unrealized Losses	0		0
Fair Value	85		184
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	5,612	[9]	6,686	[9]
Gross Unrealized Gains	448	[9]	390	[9]
Gross Unrealized Losses	3	[9]	42	[9]
Fair Value, Fixed maturities, available for sale	6,057	[9]	7,034	[9]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity, at amortized cost	963	[9]	1,303	[9]
Gross Unrealized Gains	69	[9]	80	[9]
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	[9]	0	[9]
Fair Value	1,032	[9]	1,383	[9]
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Summary Of Investments Other Than Investments In Related Parties Reportable Data [Line Items]
Available For Sale Securities Equity Securities Cost	6,921		7,003
Gross Unrealized Gains	3,023		2,931
Gross Unrealized Losses	83		24
Equity Securites, available-for-sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)	$9,861		$9,910
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $954 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
[3]	Represents the amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses in AOCI, which were not included in earnings. Amount excludes $875 million of net unrealized gains on impaired available-for-sale securities and $1 million of net unrealized gains on impaired held-to-maturity securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
[4]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[5]	Prior period’s amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
[6]	Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[7]	Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.
[8]	Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans, and other asset types.
[9]	Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations.

Investments_Amortized_Cost_and

Investments (Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Fixed Maturities by Contractual Maturities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Available for Sale Amortized Cost
Due in one year or less	$8,596
Due after one year through five years	47,442
Due after five years through ten years	58,047
Due after ten years	120,967
Debt Maturities, without single maturity date	30,064
Total	265,116		268,727
Available for Sale Securities Fair Value
Due in one year or less	9,176
Due after one year through five years	52,944
Due after five years through ten years	64,974
Due after ten years	140,877
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	31,119
Total	299,090	[1]	286,866	[1]
Held to Maturity Securities Amortized Cost
Due in one year or less	0
Due after one year through five years	46
Due after five years through ten years	199
Due after ten years	1,289	[2]
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	1,041
Total	2,575	[1],[2]	3,312	[1]
Held to Maturity Securities Fair Value
Due in one year or less	0
Due after one year through five years	50
Due after five years through ten years	211
Due after ten years	1,524	[2]
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	1,117
Total	2,902	[2]	3,553
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available for Sale Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without single maturity date	5,612
Available for Sale Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	6,057
Held to Maturity Securities Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	963
Held to Maturity Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	1,032
Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available for Sale Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without single maturity date	13,486
Available for Sale Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	13,877
Held to Maturity Securities Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	78
Held to Maturity Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	85
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Available for Sale Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without single maturity date	10,966
Available for Sale Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	11,185
Held to Maturity Securities Amortized Cost
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	0
Held to Maturity Securities Fair Value
Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date	$0
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.

Investments_Fixed_Maturities_P

Investments (Fixed Maturities Proceeds)(Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Fixed maturity and equity security impairments
Net writedowns for other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed maturities recognized in earnings	($56)	[1]	($200)	[1]	($337)	[1]
Writedowns for impairments on equity securities	32		15		125
Equity securities, available for sale
Proceeds From Sale Of Available For Sale Securities Equity Including Not Settled	4,993		4,235		4,189
Equity Securities [Member]
Available For Sale
Gross investment gains from sales	676		554		422
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses	132		94		273
Fixed Maturities, Available For Sale [Member]
Available For Sale
Proceeds from sales	28,359		37,248		15,919
Proceeds from maturities/repayments	21,040		23,573		21,897
Gross investment gains from sales	1,664		1,571		659
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses	414		1,465		359
Fixed Maturities, Held To Maturity [Member]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity
Proceeds from maturities/repayments	415		583		530
Gross investment gains from prepayments	$0		$0		$0
[1]	Excludes the portion of other-than-temporary impairments recorded in “Other comprehensive income (loss),” representing any difference between the fair value of the impaired debt security and the net present value of its projected future cash flows at the time of impairment.

Investments_Credit_Losses_Reco

Investments (Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings on Fixed Maturity Securities Held by the Company) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Credit losses recognized in earnings on fixed maturity securities
Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings, BOP	$968		$1,166
Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities which matured, paid down, prepaid or were sold during the period	-230		-314
Credit loss impairments previously recognized on securities impaired to fair value during the period	-6	[1]	-4	[1]
Credit loss impairment recognized in the current period on securities not previously impaired	16		9
Additional credit loss impairments recognized in the current period on securities previously impaired	6		74
Increases due to the passage of time on previously recorded credit losses	42		52
Accretion of credit loss impairments previously recognized due to an increase in cash flows expected to be collected	-15		-15
Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings, EOP	$781		$968
[1]	Represents circumstances where the Company determined in the current period that it intends to sell the security or it is more likely than not that it will be required to sell the security before recovery of the security’s amortized cost.

Investments_Trading_Account_As

Investments (Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Amortized Cost	$19,263		$19,971
Fair Value	20,263	[1]	20,827	[1]
Cash Equivalents And Short Term Investments [Member]
Amortized Cost	196		697
Fair Value	196		697
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	18,171		18,361
Fair Value	18,881		18,931
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	621		579
Fair Value	650		596
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	11,922		12,109
Fair Value	12,439		12,616
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	1,180		1,096
Fair Value	1,198		1,107
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	2,505		2,417
Fair Value	2,546		2,441
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	1,640	[2]	1,857	[2]
Fair Value	1,676	[2]	1,830	[2]
Fixed Maturities [Member] | US Government Corporations and Agencies Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	303		303
Fair Value	372		341
Equity Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	896		913
Fair Value	$1,186		$1,199
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	Includes publicly-traded agency pass-through securities and collateralized mortgage obligations. Includes credit-tranched securities collateralized by sub-prime mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, education loans and other asset types.

Investments_Other_Trading_Acco

Investments (Other Trading Account Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value	$10,874	$6,453
Cash Equivalents And Short Term Investments [Member]
Amortized Cost	27	105
Fair Value	27	106
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	8,306	4,653
Fair Value	8,282	4,723
Equity Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	992	1,051
Fair Value	1,105	1,177
Other Assets [Member]
Amortized Cost	7	3
Fair Value	11	7
Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets [Member]
Fair Value	1,449	440
Investments Excluding Derivative Instruments [Member]
Amortized Cost	9,332	5,812
Fair Value	$9,425	$6,013

Concentrations_of_Financial_In

Concentrations of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	$53,997	$61,287
Fair Value	61,866	67,025
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	52,703	59,775
Fair Value	60,379	65,389
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	801	916
Fair Value	981	1,032
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Amortized Cost	457	451
Fair Value	470	458
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Other Trading [Member]
Amortized Cost	36	38
Fair Value	36	39
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	0
Fair Value	0	0
Japan Government and Agencies Securities [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	107
Fair Value	0	107
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member]
Amortized Cost	6,976	6,733
Fair Value	8,488	7,338
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	6,927	6,672
Fair Value	8,438	7,277
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	0
Fair Value	0	0
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Amortized Cost	49	61
Fair Value	50	61
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Other Trading [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	0
Fair Value	0	0
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	0
Fair Value	0	0
South Korean government and Agency Securities [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Amortized Cost	0	0
Fair Value	$0	$0

Investments_Commercial_Mortgag

Investments (Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	$46,432	[1],[2]	$41,008	[1],[2]
Office buildings [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	9,612		7,762
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	21.50%		19.90%
Retail stores [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	8,765		8,698
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	19.60%		22.30%
Apartment Complexes [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	10,369		7,492
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	23.20%		19.20%
Industrial Buildings [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	7,628		7,390
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	16.90%		18.90%
Agricultural Properties [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	2,445		2,183
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	5.50%		5.60%
Hospitality [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	2,270		2,050
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	5.10%		5.20%
Other Commercial Loans [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	3,659		3,464
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	8.20%		8.90%
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	42,303		36,856
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	94.50%		94.40%
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member] | Agricultural Properties [Member]
Commercial mortgage loans	44,748		39,039
Commercial mortgage loans, Percentage	100.00%		100.00%
Total net commercial and agricultural mortgage loans by property type	44,643		38,844
Valuation allowance	105		195
Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Total other loans	1,092		1,306
Residential Property Loan [Member]
Total other loans	392		544
Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Total other loans	319		335
Total Other Loans [Member]
Total other loans	1,803		2,185
Valuation allowance	14		21
Total net other loans	$1,789		$2,164
[1]	Includes loans held at fair value.
[2]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Investments_Allowance_for_Loss

Investments (Allowance for Losses) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	$216	$269
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-87	-9
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	-9	-39
Change in foreign exchange	-1	-5
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	119	216
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	188	209
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-77	12
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	-7	-33
Change in foreign exchange	0	0
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	104	188
Agricultural Property Loans [Member]
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	7	20
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-6	-7
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	0	-6
Change in foreign exchange	0	0
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	1	7
Residential Property Loans [Member]
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	6	11
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-1	-3
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	0	0
Change in foreign exchange	0	-2
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	5	6
Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	3	12
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-1	-9
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	-2	0
Change in foreign exchange	0	0
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	0	3
Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Allowance For Losses On Commermcial Mortgage And Other Loans [Line Items]
Allowance for Losses, Beginning Balance	12	17
Addition To / (Release of) Allowance For Losses	-2	-2
Charge-offs, net of recoveries	0	0
Change in foreign exchange	-1	-3
Allowance for Losses, Ending Balance	$9	$12

Investments_Allowance_for_Cred

Investments (Allowance for Credit Losses and Recorded Investment in Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	$8		$19
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	111		197
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	119		216
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	343		443
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	46,208		40,781
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	46,551	[1]	41,224	[1]
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	8		16
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	96		172
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	104		188
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	336		429
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	41,967		36,427
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	42,303	[1]	36,856	[1]
Agricultural Property Loans [Member]
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	0		0
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	1		7
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	1		7
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	4		5
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	2,441		2,178
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	2,445	[1]	2,183	[1]
Residential Property Loan [Member]
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	0		0
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	5		6
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	5		6
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	0		0
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	392		544
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	392	[1]	544	[1]
Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	0		3
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	0		0
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	0		3
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	1		7
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	318		328
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	319	[1]	335	[1]
Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Allowance for Credit Losses:
Ending balance: individually evaluated for impairment	0		0
Ending Balance: collectively evaluated for impairment	9		12
Ending Balance: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	9		12
Recorded Investment:
Ending balance gross of reserves: individually evaluated for impairment	2		2
Ending balance gross of reserves: collectively evaluated for impairment	1,090		1,304
Ending balance gross of reserves: loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality	0		0
Total	$1,092	[1]	$1,306	[1]
[1]	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.

Investments_Impaired_Loans_Det

Investments (Impaired Loans) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Recorded Investment	$88	[1]	$97	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	89		100
Related Allowance	8		19
Average Recorded Investment	105	[3]	171	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	8	[5]	5	[6]
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	84	[1]	87	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	84		88
Related Allowance	8		16
Average Recorded Investment	98	[3]	151	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	7	[5]	2	[6]
Agricultural Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	4	[1]	5	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	4		5
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	4	[3]	12	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Residential Property Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	5	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		5
Related Allowance	0		3
Average Recorded Investment	3	[3]	8	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	1	[5]	3	[6]
Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	1		2
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]`
Recorded Investment	12	[1]	38	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	13		40
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	20	[3]	32	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	1	[5]	1	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]` | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	8	[1]	33	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	8		33
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	16	[3]	30	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	1	[5]	1	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]` | Agricultural Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	4	[1]	5	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	4		5
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	4	[3]	2	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]` | Residential Property Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]` | Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage with No Related Allowance [Member]` | Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	1		2
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member]
Recorded Investment	76	[1]	59	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	76		60
Related Allowance	8		19
Average Recorded Investment	85	[3]	139	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	7	[5]	4	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	76	[1]	54	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	76		55
Related Allowance	8		16
Average Recorded Investment	82	[3]	121	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	6	[5]	1	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	10	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member] | Residential Property Loan [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	0	[5]	0	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member] | Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	5	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		5
Related Allowance	0		3
Average Recorded Investment	3	[3]	8	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	1	[5]	3	[6]
Impaired Mortgage With Related Allowance [Member] | Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Unpaid Principal Balance Principal Balance	0		0
Related Allowance	0		0
Average Recorded Investment	0	[3]	0	[4]
Interest Income Recognized	$0	[5]	$0	[6]
[1]	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance.
[2]	Recorded investment reflects the balance sheet carrying value gross of related allowance. Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances. The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairments occurred.
[3]	Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances. The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairment occurred.
[4]	Average recorded investment represents the average of the beginning-of-period and all subsequent quarterly end-of-period balances.
[5]	The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairment occurred.
[6]	The interest income recognized is for the year-to-date income regardless of when the impairments occurred.

Investments_Credit_Quality_Ind

Investments (Credit Quality Indicators) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
commercial mortgage and other loans	$46,551	$41,224
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	22,557	19,089
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	24,709	21,112
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2,152	2,023
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	12,563	11,101
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	12,714	11,124
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	151	23
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	4,354	4,005
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	4,354	4,005
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	234	325
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	234	325
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	39,708	34,520
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	42,011	36,566
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Greater than One Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2,303	2,046
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	637	597
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	777	734
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	140	137
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	500	379
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	500	379
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	664	422
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	664	422
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	127	173
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	127	173
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	1,928	1,571
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2,068	1,708
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, One Point Zero X to Less Than Two Point Two X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	140	137
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	207	179
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	209	179
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	237	95
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	237	95
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	21	216
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	21	216
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	202	275
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	202	275
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	667	765
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	669	765
Debt Service Coverage Ratio, Less Than One Point Zero X [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	23,401	19,865
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	25,695	22,025
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Less Than Fifty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	2,294	2,160
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	13,300	11,575
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	13,451	11,598
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Sixty Percent To Sixty Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	151	23
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	5,039	4,643
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	5,039	4,643
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Seventy Percent To Seventy Nine Point Nine Nine Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	563	773
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	563	773
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan-to-Value Ratio, Greater than Eighty Percent [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	0	0
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	42,303	36,856
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Commercial Mortgage and Agricultural Loans [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	44,748	39,039
Debt Service Coverage Ratio Total [Member] | Loan To Value Ratio Total [Member] | Agricultural Loan [Member]
commercial mortgage and other loans	$2,445	$2,183

Investments_Analysis_of_Past_D

Investments (Analysis of Past Due Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current	$46,468	$41,163
30-59 Days Past Due	69	27
60-89 Days Past Due	3	3
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	11	31
Total Past Due	83	61
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	46,551	41,224
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	110	173
Commercial Mortgage Loan [Member]
Current	42,239	36,821
30-59 Days Past Due	62	16
60-89 Days Past Due	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	2	19
Total Past Due	64	35
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	42,303	36,856
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	101	154
Agricultural Loan [Member]
Current	2,443	2,182
30-59 Days Past Due	0	0
60-89 Days Past Due	1	0
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	1	1
Total Past Due	2	1
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	2,445	2,183
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	1	2
Residential Property Loan [Member]
Current	375	520
30-59 Days Past Due	7	11
60-89 Days Past Due	2	3
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	8	10
Total Past Due	17	24
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	392	544
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	8	10
Other Collateralized Loans [Member]
Current	319	334
30-59 Days Past Due	0	0
60-89 Days Past Due	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	0	1
Total Past Due	0	1
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	319	335
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	0	5
Uncollateralized Loans [Member]
Current	1,092	1,306
30-59 Days Past Due	0	0
60-89 Days Past Due	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Accruing	0	0
Greater than 90 Days - Not Accruing	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	1,092	1,306
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Nonaccrual Status	$0	$2

Investments_Commercial_Mortgag1

Investments (Commercial Mortgage And Other Loans Sold And Acquired) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commercial Mortgage And Other Loans Sold and Acquired [Line Items]
Acquired	$0	$718
Sold	$25	$93

Investments_Troubled_Debt_Rest

Investments (Troubled Debt Restructurings) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Pre Modification:
FinancingReceivableModificationsPreModificationRecordedInvestment	$0	$117
Post Modification:
FinancingReceivableModificationsPostModificationRecordedInvestment	$0	$114

Investments_Other_Long_Term_In

Investments (Other Long Term Investments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Other Long Term Investments	$10,921	[1]	$10,328	[1]
Joint Ventures And Limited Partnerships [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	7,545		7,245
Joint Ventures And Limited Partnerships [Member] | Real Estate Related [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	1,018		1,104
Joint Ventures And Limited Partnerships [Member] | Non Real Estate Related [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	6,527		6,141
Wholly Owned Properties [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	2,235		2,051
Other Investments [Member]
Other Long Term Investments	$1,141		$1,032
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Investments_Equity_Method_Inve

Investments (Equity Method Investments, Statement of Financial Position) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets	$50,602	[1]	$51,588	[1]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities	13,152	[2]	10,868	[2]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity or Capital	37,450		40,720
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity	50,602		51,588
Equity Method Investment, Underlying Equity in Net Assets	4,599		3,765
Equity Method Investment, Underlying Equity in Net Assets Not Included Above	42		350
Equity Method Investments	$4,641		$4,115
[1]	Assets consist primarily of investments in real estate, investments in securities and other miscellaneous assets.
[2]	Liabilities consist primarily of third party-borrowed funds, securities repurchase agreements and other miscellaneous liabilities.

Investments_Equity_Method_Inve1

Investments (Equity Method Investments, Statement of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	$3,978		$3,070		$2,983
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Included Above	522		255		188
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Not Included Above	72		77		34
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	594		332		222
Total Revenue [Member]
Schedule Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	5,632	[1]	4,013	[1]	4,556	[1]
Total Expenses [Member]
Schedule Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)	($1,654)	[2]	($943)	[2]	($1,573)	[2]
[1]	Revenue consists of income from investments in real estate, investments in securities and other income.
[2]	Expenses consist primarily of interest expense, management fees, salary expenses and other expenses.

Investments_Net_Investment_Inc

Investments (Net Investment Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	$15,994	$15,312	$14,134
Less: investment expenses	-738	-583	-473
Net Investment Income, Total	15,256	14,729	13,661
Available For Sale Fixed Maturities [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	10,558	10,541	9,800
Fixed Maturities, Held To Maturity [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	185	125	135
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	354	337	332
Trading Account Assets [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	1,074	963	890
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	2,103	1,985	2,014
Policy Loans [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	632	611	597
Short-term Investments [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	38	40	46
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Schedule of Investment Income, Reported Amounts, by Category [Line Items]
Gross investment income	$1,050	$710	$320

Investments_Realized_Investmen

Investments (Realized Investment Gains Losses Net) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	$1,636		($5,206)		($1,441)
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	1,194		-93		-37
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	512		444		24
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	110		79		94
Real Estate Investment [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	-5		2		-20
Equity Method Investments [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	-15		34		-2
Derivative [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	-182	[1]	-5,688	[1]	-1,500	[1]
Other Asset Types [Member]
Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Line Items]
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	$22		$16		$0
[1]	embedded derivatives as well as the offset of hedged items in qualifying effective hedge relationships prior to maturity or termination.

Investments_Net_Unrealized_Gai

Investments (Net Unrealized Gains Losses on Investments by Asset Class) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	$37,113		$20,604		$24,957
Net unrealized losses on held to maturity securities transferred from available-for-sale	6
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	-7	[1]	4	[1]	14	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	33,625		18,029		23,876
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	2,940		2,907		1,518
Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	349		110		-194
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	$206	[2]	($446)	[2]	($257)	[2]
[1]	As of December 31, 2014, includes $6 million of net unrealized losses on held-to-maturity securities that were previously transferred from available-for-sale. Also includes net unrealized gains on certain joint ventures that are strategic in nature and are included in “Other assets.”
[2]	See Note 21 for more information on cash flow hedges.

Investments_Fair_Value_and_Los

Investments (Fair Value and Losses by Investment Category and Length of Time in a Loss Position) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	$19,166		$46,798
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	455		2,257
Twelve months or more Fair Value	19,666		17,981
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	901		2,194
Total Fair Value	38,832	[1]	64,779	[2],[3]
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	1,356	[1]	4,451	[2],[3]
US Treasury And Government [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	2,145		3,913
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	5		95
Twelve months or more Fair Value	10		6
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	0		1
Total Fair Value	2,155		3,919
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	5		96
Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	105		1,187
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	1		129
Twelve months or more Fair Value	89		43
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	2		8
Total Fair Value	194		1,230
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	3		137
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	839		3,260
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	26		211
Twelve months or more Fair Value	1,052		438
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	91		55
Total Fair Value	1,891		3,698
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	117		266
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	11,326		29,574
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	401		1,618
Twelve months or more Fair Value	13,346		14,094
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	654		1,814
Total Fair Value	24,672		43,668
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	1,055		3,432
Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	1,299		4,267
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	6		128
Twelve months or more Fair Value	1,746		605
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	33		35
Total Fair Value	3,045		4,872
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	39		163
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	3,417		2,995
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	16		42
Twelve months or more Fair Value	3,229		2,511
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	118		273
Total Fair Value	6,646		5,506
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	134		315
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	35		1,602
Less than 12 months Gross Unrealized Losses	0		34
Twelve months or more Fair Value	194		284
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	3		8
Total Fair Value	229		1,886
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	3		42
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Fixed Maturities Investments [Line Items]
Total Fair Value	91		210
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	$1		$24
[1]	Includes $91 million of fair value and $1 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2014, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI.
[2]	Includes $210 million of fair value and $24 million of gross unrealized losses at December 31, 2013, on securities classified as held-to-maturity, a portion of which is not reflected in AOCI. Prior period’s amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.
[3]	Prior period’s amounts are presented on a basis consistent with the current period presentation.

Investments_Fair_Value_and_Los1

Investments (Fair Value and Losses by Length of Time in a Continuous Unrealized Loss Position) (Details) (Equity Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Equity Securities [Member]
Duration Of Unrealized Losses On Equity Securities [Line Items]
Less than twelve months Fair Value	$1,670	$586
Less than twelve months Gross Unrealized Losses	82	24
Twelve months or more Fair Value	9	1
Twelve months or more Gross Unrealized Losses	1	0
Total Fair Value	1,679	587
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	$83	$24

Investments_Securities_Pledged

Investments (Securities Pledged) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	$19,333	$19,021
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Associated Liabilities	16,863	16,822
Fair Value of Securities Received as Collateral that Can be Resold or Repledged	6,518	193
Fixed Maturities, Available For Sale [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	15,338	14,648
Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	391	606
Other Trading Account Assets [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	231	105
Separate Account Assets [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	2,861	3,488
Equity Securities [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral	512	174
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Associated Liabilities	9,407	7,898
Separate Account Liabilities [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Associated Liabilities	2,935	3,603
Cash Collateral For Loaned Securities [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Associated Liabilities	4,241	5,040
Long-term Debt [Member]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral [Line Items]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Associated Liabilities	$280	$281

Variable_Interest_Entities_Nar

Variable Interest Entities Narrative (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Creditors of VIE do not have recourse to the Company	“Notes issued by consolidated VIEs.” Recourse is limited to the assets of the respective VIE and does not extend to the general credit of Prudential Financial.
Notes Issued by VIE-maturity description	As of December 31, 2014, the maturities of these obligations were greater than five years.
VIE Notes Maturity greater than 5 years	$6,058	$3,302
Medium-term notes	2,705	2,381
Other realized investment gains (losses), net	1,692	-5,007	-1,104
Guarantee Type, Other [Member]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	331	404
Other Long-term Investments [Member] | Joint Ventures And Limited Partnerships [Member]
Maximum exposure to loss resulting from investment in unconsolidated VIEs	7,545	7,244
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Fair value of assets held within unconsolidated VIEs	6,973	9,426
Fair value of liabilities held within unconsolidated VIEs	0	0
Fixed Maturities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Other Trading [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] | Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Maximum exposure to loss resulting from investment in unconsolidated VIEs	$137	$489

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tot

Variable Interest Entities (Total Assets of Consolidated VIEs) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	$7,828	$4,640
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	6,732	3,933
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	44	68
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Other Trading Account Assets [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	6,943	3,832
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	13	23
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	623	566
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Accrued Investment Income [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	39	19
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	166	132
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Notes Issued By Consolidated V I E [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	6,058	3,302
Variable Interest Entities Investment Manager [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	674	631
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	1,340	1,378
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	1	1
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	104	108
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	763	871
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	11	11
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Other Trading Account Assets [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	300	300
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	159	87
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	-3
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Accrued Investment Income [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	3	4
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Notes Issued By Consolidated V I E [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	0	0
Variable Interest Entities Not Investment Manager [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total liabilities of consolidated VIEs	$1	$1

Deferred_Policy_Acquisition_Co2

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs Disclosures [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of year	$16,512	$14,100	$12,517
Capitalization	2,694	2,902	3,565
Amortization-Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups	629	328	328
Amortization - All Other	-2,602	-568	-1,832
Change in Unrealized investment gains and losses	-697	492	-168
Foreign currency translation and other	-565	-742	-310
Balance, end of year	$15,971	$16,512	$14,100

Investments_in_Operating_Joint1

Investments in Operating Joint Ventures (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
China Pacific Group [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Pre-tax gain on sale of operating joint venture		$66	$60
Total Operating Joint Ventures [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Asset management fees	$33	$30	$22

Investments_in_Operating_Joint2

Investments in Operating Joint Ventures (Investments in Operating Joint Ventures) (Details) (Total Operating Joint Ventures [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Total Operating Joint Ventures [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in operating joint ventures	$325		$361		$393
Dividends received from operating joint ventures	27		31		41
After-tax equity earnings (losses)	$16	[1]	$59	[1]	$60	[1]
[1]	Includes gains associated with sales of the Company's previous investment, through a consortium, in China Pacific Group, for which the Company’s remaining shares were sold in January, 2013. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized pre-tax gains of $66 million and $60 million, respectively, from sales of this investment.

Valuation_of_Business_Acquired1

Valuation of Business Acquired (Balance of and Changes in VOBA) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Present Value of Future Insurance Profits [Abstract]
Beginning Balance	$3,675		$3,248		$3,845
Acquisitions	7		1,370		0
Amortization-Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups	-175		59		-31
Amortization-All Other	-420		-509		-520
Change in unrealized investment gains and losses	-89		-55		90
Interest	95	[1]	105	[1]	62	[1]
Foreign currency translation	-257		-543		-198
Ending Balance	$2,836	[2]	$3,675		$3,248
[1]	The interest accrual rates vary by product. The interest rates for 2014 were 6.40%, 6.10%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, 3.00% to 6.17%, and 4.07% to 5.51% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The interest rates for 2013 were 6.40%, 6.14%, 1.28% to 2.87%, 2.60%, and 3.00% to 6.17% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, and The Hartford, respectively. The interest rates for 2012 were 6.40%, 6.18%, 1.28% to 2.87%, and 2.60% for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, and Aoba Life, respectively.
[2]	The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.

Valuation_of_Business_Acquired2

Valuation of Business Acquired (Balances of and Changes in VOBA) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	$2,836	[1]	3,675	3,248	$3,845
Connecticut General Life Insurance Company [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	201
Weighted average remaining expected life	12 years
Interest accrual rates	6.40%		6.40%	6.40%
Prudential Annuities Holding Company [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	40
Weighted average remaining expected life	5 years
Interest accrual rates	6.10%		6.14%	6.18%
Aoba Life Insurance Company Ltd [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	0
Weighted average remaining expected life	6 years
Interest accrual rates	2.60%		2.60%	2.60%
Gibraltar Life [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	1,554
Weighted average remaining expected life	8 years
Gibraltar Life [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	1.28%		1.28%	1.28%
Gibraltar Life [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	2.87%		2.87%	2.87%
Hartford [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	1,036
Weighted average remaining expected life	9 years
Hartford [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	3.00%		3.00%
Hartford [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	6.17%		6.17%
Bank Simpanan Nasional [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Value Of Business Acquired VOBA	$6
Weighted average remaining expected life	10 years
Bank Simpanan Nasional [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	4.07%
Bank Simpanan Nasional [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Schedule Of Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits [Line Items]
Interest accrual rates	5.51%
[1]	The VOBA balances at December 31, 2014 were $201 million, $40 million, $1,554 million, $0 million, $1,036 million, and $6 million related to the insurance transactions associated with the CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life, Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively. The weighted average remaining expected life of VOBA varies by product. The weighted average remaining expected lives were approximately 12, 5, 8, 6, 9, and 10 years for the VOBA related to CIGNA, Prudential Annuities Holding Co., Gibraltar Life., Aoba Life, The Hartford, and Gibraltar BSN Life Berhad, respectively.

Valuation_of_Business_Acquired3

Valuation of Business Acquired (Estimated Future Amortization, Net of Interest) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Expected Amortization Expense Of Ending Present Value Of Future Insurance Profits Net Of Interest Accrued [Abstract]
2015	$315
2016	284
2017	252
2018	227
2019	$210

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles1

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Changes in the Book Value of Goodwill by Segment) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Goodwill, Beginning of Year	$839		$873		$888
Accumulated Impairment Losses, Beginning of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, Beginning of Year	839		873		888
Acquisitions	18				0
Other	-26	[1]	-34	[1]	-15	[1]
Gross Goodwill, End of Year	831		839		873
Accumulated Impairment Losses, End of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, End of Year	831		839		873
Asset Management [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Goodwill, Beginning of Year	240		238		238
Accumulated Impairment Losses, Beginning of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, Beginning of Year	240		238		238
Acquisitions	0				0
Other	-5	[1]	2	[1]	0	[1]
Gross Goodwill, End of Year	235		240		238
Accumulated Impairment Losses, End of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, End of Year	235		240		238
Retirement [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Goodwill, Beginning of Year	444		444		444
Accumulated Impairment Losses, Beginning of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, Beginning of Year	444		444		444
Acquisitions	0				0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Gross Goodwill, End of Year	444		444		444
Accumulated Impairment Losses, End of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, End of Year	444		444		444
International Insurance [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross Goodwill, Beginning of Year	155		191		206
Accumulated Impairment Losses, Beginning of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, Beginning of Year	155		191		206
Acquisitions	18				0
Other	-21	[1]	-36	[1]	-15	[1]
Gross Goodwill, End of Year	152		155		191
Accumulated Impairment Losses, End of Year	0		0		0
Goodwill, End of Year	$152		$155		$191
[1]	Other represents foreign currency translation and purchase price adjustments.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Other Intangibles) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Other Intangibles [Line Items]
Net Carrying Amount, Not subject to amortization	$3	$3
Total Other Intangible Assets	294	303
Gross Carrying Amount, Not subject to amortization	3	3
Mortgage Servicing Rights [Member]
Other Intangibles [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	462	420
Accumulate Amortization	-265	-231
Net Carrying Amount	197	189
Customer Relationships [Member]
Other Intangibles [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	275	285
Accumulate Amortization	-191	-188
Net Carrying Amount	84	97
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Other Intangibles [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	42	43
Accumulate Amortization	-32	-29
Net Carrying Amount	$10	$14

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles3

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Intangible Assets Net Excluding Goodwill [Abstract]
Mortgage Servicing Rights Fair Value	$210	$200
Amortization expense for other intangibles	55	61	56
2015	46
2016	38
2017	32
2018	27
2019	$24

Policyholders_Liabilities_Futu

Policyholders' Liabilities (Future Policy Benefits) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Liability for Future Policy Benefits and Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Abstract]
Life insurance future policy benefits	$143,842	$142,952
Individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts future policy benefits	58,699	55,445
Other contract liabilities future policy benefits	12,172	5,490
Subtotal future policy benefits excluding unpaid claims and claim adjustment expenses	214,713	203,887
Unpaid claims and claims adjustment expenses	3,053	2,972
Total future policy benefits	$217,766	$206,859

Policyholders_Liabilities_Narr

Policyholders' Liabilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Traditional life insurance low limit guaranteed mortality and nonforfeiture interest rate used to calculate future policy benefits	2.50%
Traditional life insurance high limit guaranteed mortality and nonforfeiture interest rate used to calculate future policy benefits	7.50%
Participating Policies As Percentage Of Direct Gross Life Insurance In Force	4.00%		5.00%
Participating Policies As Percentage Of Direct Gross Life Premiums	16.00%		14.00%		11.00%
Individual and group annuities and supplementary contracts future policy benefits	$58,699,000,000		$55,445,000,000
net unrealized gains on securities classified as available for sale	37,113,000,000		20,604,000,000		24,957,000,000
Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expenses Interest Rate Lower End	3.00%
Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expenses Interest Rate High End	6.40%
Policyholders' account balances	136,150,000,000	[1]	136,657,000,000	[1]
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions Low End	0.00%
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions High End	13.30%
Interest Sensitive Life, Interest Rate Assumptions, Low End	0.00%
Interest Sensitive Life, Interest Rate Assumptions, High End	27.80%
Percentage Of Policyholders Account Balances With Interest Crediting Rates In Excess Of 8 Percent	1.00%
Individual Non Participating Life Insurance Long Term Care And Individual Health [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate Low End	0.20%
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate High End	14.00%
Percentage Of Reserves Based On Interest Rates In Excess Of 8 Percent	1.00%
Individual And Group Annuities And Supplementary Contracts [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate Low End	0.80%
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate High End	11.30%
Other Contract Liabilities [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate Low End	0.40%
Future Policy Benefits Interest Rate High End	7.30%
Funding Agreements[ Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Policyholders' account balances	4,691,000,000		4,370,000,000
Funding Agreements[ Member] | Funding Agreement Notes Issuance Program [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Policyholders' account balances	2,705,000,000		2,380,000,000
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions Low End	0.40%
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions High End	2.20%
Funding Agreements[ Member] | Funding Agreement Notes Issuance Program [Member] | Amortized Cost [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Policyholders' account balances	2,705,000,000		2,381,000,000
Funding Agreements[ Member] | Funding Agreement Notes Issuance Program [Member] | Delaware Statutory Trust [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Authorized	15,000,000,000
Funding Agreements[ Member] | Federal Home Loan Bank of New York [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Policyholders' account balances	1,947,000,000		1,947,000,000
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions Low End	0.50%
Other Than Interest Sensitive Life Interest Rate Assumptions High End	2.20%
Interest Sensitive Life Contracts [Member]
Liability for Future Policy Benefit, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Policyholders' account balances	$30,406,000,000		$32,136,000,000
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Policyholders_Liabilities_Poli

Policyholders' Liabilities (Policyholders' Account Balances) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Policyholders' account balances	$136,150	[1]	$136,657	[1]
Individual Annuities [Member]
Policyholders' account balances	37,718		35,947
Group Annuities [Member]
Policyholders' account balances	27,200		27,294
Guaranteed Investment Contracts And Guaranteed Interest Accounts [Member]
Policyholders' account balances	14,428		14,898
Funding Agreements[ Member]
Policyholders' account balances	4,691		4,370
Interest Sensitive Life Contracts [Member]
Policyholders' account balances	30,406		32,136
Dividend Accumulation And Other [Member]
Policyholders' account balances	$21,707		$22,012
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur2

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Guarantees Associated with Variable Annuity Contracts, by Guarantee Type) (Details) (Annuity [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Return Of Net Deposits [Member] | In Event Of Death [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value in the event of death	$118,629		$113,527
Net amount at risk in the event of death	403		465
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	64 years		63 years
Return Of Net Deposits [Member] | At Annuitization Accumulation [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value at annuitization or accumulation	163	[1]	181	[1]
Net amount at risk at annuitization or accumulation	0	[1]	0	[1]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	63 years		62 years
Mimimum Return Or Contract Value [Member] | In Event Of Death [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value in the event of death	37,322		37,801
Net amount at risk in the event of death	2,856		2,817
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	66 years		66 years
Mimimum Return Or Contract Value [Member] | At Annuitization Accumulation [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account value at annuitization or accumulation	134,938	[1]	127,530	[1]
Net amount at risk at annuitization or accumulation	$3,135	[1]	$2,892	[1]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	62 years		63 years
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Period Remaining	0 years 4 months		0 years 4 months
[1]	         Includes income and withdrawal benefits as described herein.

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur3

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Guarantees Associated with Variable Annuity Contracts, by guarantee, by Guarantee Type) (MVA) (Details) (Annuity [Member], Market Value Adjusted Annuites [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Annuity [Member] | Market Value Adjusted Annuites [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Account Value	$8,948	$7,714

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur4

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Guarantees Associated with Variable Life Contracts, by Guarantee Type) (Details) (Variable Life Variable Universal Life And Universal Life [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Variable Life Variable Universal Life And Universal Life [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate account value in the event of death	$7,816	$7,546
General account value in the event of death	12,124	11,155
Net amount at risk in the event of death	$200,386	$194,344
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee, Weighted Average Attained Age	55 years	54 years

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur5

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Account Balances of Variable Annuity Contracts with Guarantees Invested in General and Separate Account Investment Options) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate Account Value	$148,720	$143,614
Equity Funds [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate Account Value	94,473	90,199
Bond Funds [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate Account Value	45,159	46,235
Balanced Funds [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate Account Value	753	652
Money Market Funds [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate Account Value	$8,335	$6,528

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur6

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Summary of the Changes in General Account Liabilities for Guarantees on Variable Contracts) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] | Variable Life Variable Universal Life And Universal Life [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	$1,795		$371		$288
Incurred guarantee benefits	794	[1]	97	[1]	103	[1]
Guaranteed Benefits Other	279		1,331	[2]	-6	[3]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Benefits Paid	-18		-4		-14
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	2,850		1,795		371
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit [Member] | Annuity [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	461		488		319
Incurred guarantee benefits	245	[1]	35	[1]	272	[1]
Guaranteed Benefits Other	4		13	[2]	1	[3]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Benefits Paid	-68		-75		-104
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	642		461		488
Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit [Member] | Annuity [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	397		459		405
Incurred guarantee benefits	84	[1]	10	[1]	102	[1]
Guaranteed Benefits Other	1		-49	[2]	-16	[3]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Benefits Paid	-15		-23		-32
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	467		397		459
Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Withdrawal Income And Withdrawal Benefits [Member] | Annuity [Member]
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	441		3,348		2,886
Incurred guarantee benefits	7,741	[1]	-2,904	[1]	463	[1]
Guaranteed Benefits Other	0		-3	[2]	-1	[3]
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Benefits Paid	0		0		0
Liabilities For Guarantees On Long Duration Contracts Guaranteed Benefit Liability Gross	$8,182		$441		$3,348
[1]	Incurred guarantee benefits include the portion of assessments established as additions to reserves as well as changes in estimates affecting the reserves. Also includes changes in the fair value of features considered to be derivatives.
[2]	GMDB primarily includes amounts acquired from The Hartford on January 2, 2013.
[3]	Primarily represents amounts acquired from Star and Edison.

Certain_Nontraditional_LongDur7

Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts (Changes in Deferred Sales Inducements, Reported as "Interest credited to policyholders' account balances") (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Deferred Sales Inducements [Abstract]
Beginning Balance	$1,813	$1,357	$1,001
Capitalization	22	53	259
Amortization - Impact of assumption and experience unlocking and true-ups	81	27	189
Amortization - All other	-403	340	-109
Change in unrealized investment gains and losses	1	36	17
Ending Balance	$1,514	$1,813	$1,357

Closed_Block_Narrative_Details

Closed Block (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Closed Block [Line Items]
Closed Block Liabilities, Policyholder Dividend Obligation	$6,612	$4,511	$6,363
Dividends to policyholders'	2,635	1,910	2,021
December 2013 Board Of Directors Action [Member]
Closed Block [Line Items]
Dividends to policyholders'		33
December 2014 Board Of Directors Action [Member]
Closed Block [Line Items]
Dividends to policyholders'	60
Excess Of Actual Cumulative Earnings Over Expected Cumulative Earnings [Member]
Closed Block [Line Items]
Closed Block Liabilities, Policyholder Dividend Obligation	1,558	887
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gains That Have Arisen Subsequent To Establishment Of Closed Block [Member]
Closed Block [Line Items]
Closed Block Liabilities, Policyholder Dividend Obligation	$5,053	$3,624

Closed_Block_Closed_Block_Liab

Closed Block (Closed Block Liabilities and Assets Designated to Closed Block; Maximum Future Earnings to be Recognized) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Closed Block Liabilities
Future policy benefits		$49,863	$50,258
Policyholders' dividends payable		931	907
Policyholders' dividend obligation		6,612	4,511	6,363
Policyholders' account balances		5,310	5,359
Other Closed Block liabilities		5,084	4,281
Total Closed Block Liabilities		67,800	65,316
Closed Block Assets
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value		40,629	39,169
Other trading account assets, at fair value		302	291
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value		3,522	3,884
Commercial mortgage and other loans		9,472	8,762
Policy loans		4,914	5,013
Other long-term investments		2,765	2,085
Short-term investments		1,225	1,790
Total investments		62,829	60,994
Cash and cash equivalents		1,201	544
Accrued investment income		527	542
Other Closed Block assets		332	296
Total Closed Block Assets	57,000	64,889	62,376
Excess of reported Closed Block Liabilities over Closed Block Assets		2,911	2,940
Portion of above representing accumulated other comprehensive income:
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)		5,040	3,615
Allocated to policyholder dividend obligation		-5,053	-3,624
Future earnings to be recognized from Closed Block Assets and Closed Block Liabilities		$2,898	$2,931

Closed_Block_Information_Regar

Closed Block (Information Regarding Policyholder Dividend Obligation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Closed Block Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance, January 1	$4,511	$6,363
Impact from earnings allocable to policyholder dividend obligation	672	2
Change in net unrealized investment gains (losses) allocated to policyholder dividend obligation	1,429	-1,854
Ending Balance	$6,612	$4,511

Closed_Block_Closed_Block_Reve

Closed Block (Closed Block Revenues and Benefits and Expenses) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues
Premiums	$2,704	$2,728	$2,817
Net investment income	2,809	2,796	2,919
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1,164	230	243
Other income	34	57	31
Total Closed Block revenues	6,711	5,811	6,010
Benefits and Expenses
Policyholders' benefits	3,326	3,334	3,445
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	136	136	137
Dividends to policyholders'	2,635	1,910	2,021
General and administrative expenses	444	467	492
Total Closed Block benefits and expenses	6,541	5,847	6,095
Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, before income taxes and discontinued operations	170	-36	-85
Income tax expense (benefit)	139	-57	-103
Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses and income taxes, before discontinued operations	31	21	18
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	1	0	-2
Closed Block revenues, net of Closed Block benefits and expenses, income taxes and discontinued operations	$32	$21	$16

Reinsurance_Narrative_Details

Reinsurance (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Closed Block Reinsurance Percentage	73.00%	90.00%
Percentage Of Reinsurance Recoverable From Major Reinsurance Companies	69.00%
Retention Limits For Reinsurance	$20,000,000		$20,000,000	$30,000,000
United Kingdom Longevity Reinsurance	27,000,000,000
Business Acquisition Number of Life Insurance Policies Acquired Reinsurance	700,000
Business Acquistion Contracts In Force Acquired Through Reinsurance Net Retained Face Amount Reinsurance	$141,000,000,000

Reinsurance_Reinsurance_Info_D

Reinsurance (Reinsurance Info) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Premiums
Direct Premiums	$29,666	$27,444	$66,566
Reinsurance assumed	1,134	272	224
Reinsurance ceded	-1,507	-1,479	-1,436
Premiums-Net amount	29,293	26,237	65,354
Policy Charges and Fees
Direct Policy Charges and Fees	5,026	4,648	4,491
Reinsurance Assumed	1,425	918	106
Reinsurance Ceded	-272	-151	-108
Insurance Commissions And Fees	6,179	5,415	4,489
Policyholder Benefits
Direct Policyholder Benefits	31,012	27,458	66,075
Reinsurance Assumed	2,732	809	435
Reinsurance Ceded	-2,157	-1,534	-1,379
Policyholders' benefits	$31,587	$26,733	$65,131

Reinsurance_Reinsurance_Recove

Reinsurance (Reinsurance Recoverable) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Reinsurance Recoverables	$3,110		$2,784
Individual And Group Annuities [Member]
Reinsurance Recoverables	109	[1]	252	[1]
Life Insurance Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Recoverables	2,842	[2]	2,383	[2]
Other Reinsurance [Member]
Reinsurance Recoverables	$159		$149
[1]	Primarily represents reinsurance recoverables established under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA. The Company has recorded reinsurance payables related to the acquisition of the retirement business of CIGNA of $105 million and $248 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[2]	Includes $2,130 million and $1,597 million of reinsurance recoverables established at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, under the reinsurance arrangements associated with the acquisition of the individual life business of The Hartford. The Company has also recorded reinsurance payables related to the individual life business of The Hartford acquisition of $1,300 million and $1,244 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Reinsurance_Reinsurance_Recove1

Reinsurance (Reinsurance Recoverable) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance Payable Related To Acquired Retirement Business	$105	$248
Reinsurance Payable Related To Acquired Hartford Business	1,300	1,244
Reinsurance Recoverable Related To Acquired Hartford Business	$2,130	$1,597

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Sh

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Short-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$3,839	[1]	$2,669	[1]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.12%	[2]	0.17%	[2]
Commercial Paper Weighted Average Maturity	22 days		18 days
CommercialPaperDueOvernight	199		466
CommercialPaperDailyAverageOutstanding	1,409		1,309
Parent Company [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	2,319		1,721
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.28%		0.32%
Commercial Paper [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	483		650
Commercial Paper [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	97	[3]	190	[3]
Commercial Paper [Member] | Prudential Funding L L C [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	386		460
Long Term Debt Current Portion [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	3,356	[4]	2,019	[4]
Long Term Debt Current Portion [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$2,222		$1,531
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[2]	Excludes the current portion of long-term debt.
[3]	The weighted average interest rate on outstanding commercial paper was 0.28% and 0.32% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[4]	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2014 and limited and non-recourse borrowings of Prudential Holdings, LLC attributable to the Closed Block Business of $75 million at December 31, 2013. This debt was redeemed in December 2014.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Sh1

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Short-Term Debt) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$3,839	[1]	$2,669	[1]
Collateralized borrowings from Federal Home Loan Bank of New York	280
Parent Company [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt	2,319		1,721
Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Short Term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term debt			$75
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Na

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 18, 2001	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Other Long Term Investments	$10,921,000,000	[1]	$10,328,000,000	[1]			$10,921,000,000	[1]
Advances outstanding short term	280,000,000						280,000,000
FederalHomeLoanBankAdvancesMaturitiesSummaryDueFromOneToTwoYears			280,000,000
Medium-term notes	2,705,000,000		2,381,000,000				2,705,000,000
Debt Maturities	7,384,000,000		3,939,000,000		3,391,000,000
Payments to Acquire Other Investments	2,445,000,000		2,850,000,000		1,736,000,000
ExtensionofLineofCreditFacilityTerm	2 years
Assets Under Set Off Arrangements	3,973,000,000	[2]	2,400,000,000	[2]			3,973,000,000	[2]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	3,750,000,000						3,750,000,000
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper authorized capacity	3,000,000,000						3,000,000,000
Commercial Paper	386,000,000						386,000,000
Debt Maturities	1,659,000,000		3,257,000,000		2,737,000,000
Payments to Acquire Other Investments	0		1,000,000		0
Increase Decrease In Interest Expense	2,000,000		2,000,000		-4,000,000
Unsecured committed lines of credit	2,000,000,000	[3]					2,000,000,000	[3]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company Prudential Funding Combined [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	1,750,000,000	[3]					1,750,000,000	[3]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Prudential Funding L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper authorized capacity	7,000,000,000						7,000,000,000
Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes Issued						1,750,000,000
Proceeds from IHC Debt						1,727,000,000
Dividend paid to Prudential Financial (distribution to parent)						1,218,000,000
Payments to Acquire Other Investments						72,000,000
MakeWholePayment	448,000,000						448,000,000
Other Subsidiaries [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	483,000,000						483,000,000
Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Financing Facility Term	twenty-year
Assets Under Set Off Arrangements	1,000,000,000						1,000,000,000
Prudential Legacy Insurance Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Financing Facility Term	twenty-year
Future Debt Instrument Authorized	4,000,000,000						4,000,000,000
Line of Credit and Other Credit Facilities [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters Of Credit Maximum Borrowing Capacity	300,000,000						300,000,000
Line of Credit and Other Credit Facilities [Member] | Parent Company Prudential Funding Combined [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum statutory consolidated net worth	18,990,000,000						18,990,000,000
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Line of Credit and Other Credit Facilities [Member] | Real Estate Separate Account [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	445,000,000						445,000,000
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	267,000,000
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Purchase requirement of FHLBNY activity based stock in percent of the outstanding borrowings	4.50%						4.50%
Other Long Term Investments	151,000,000		168,000,000				151,000,000
Maximum amount of qualifying assets, percentage collateral to the FHLBNY, prior year-end statutory net admitted assets exclusive of separate account assets	5.00%						5.00%
Maximum amount of pledged asset	8,600,000,000						8,600,000,000
Estimated maximum borrowing capacity, after taking into account applicable required collateralization levels and required purchases of activity based stock	7,200,000,000						7,200,000,000
Pledged qualifying assets with a fair value	2,800,000,000						2,800,000,000
Collateralized agreements	1,947,000,000						1,947,000,000
Advances outstanding short term	280,000,000						280,000,000
Assets not pledged fair value	4,100,000,000						4,100,000,000
Outstanding amount of notes	2,200,000,000						2,200,000,000
Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Estimated maximum borrowing capacity, after taking into account applicable required collateralization levels and required purchases of activity based stock	213,000,000						213,000,000
Minimum purchase requirement of activity based stock in percent of the outstanding borrowings	3.00%						3.00%
Maximum purchase requirement of activity based stock in percent of the outstanding borrowings	4.50%						4.50%
Outstanding amount of notes	0						0
Maximum amount of qualifying assets to be pledged	lesser of 5% of prior-year statutory admitted assets or 25% of prior-year statutory surplus
Medium Term Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issued amount	1,800,000,000						1,800,000,000
Outstanding amount of notes	13,000,000,000						13,000,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized	20,000,000,000						20,000,000,000
Increase in outstanding debt	300,000,000						300,000,000
Debt Maturities	1,500,000,000
Retail Medium Term Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issued amount	141,000,000						141,000,000
Outstanding amount of notes	375,000,000						375,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized	5,000,000,000						5,000,000,000
Increase in outstanding debt	83,000,000						83,000,000
Debt Maturities	58,000,000
Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Increase Decrease In Interest Expense	22,000,000		23,000,000		16,000,000
Current And Long Term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Expense, Debt	1,934,000,000		1,419,000,000		1,389,000,000
Senior Secured Notes [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Redemptions							1,600,000,000
Net Investment Income [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest Expense, Debt	11,000,000		6,000,000		8,000,000
Private Placement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issued amount	1,000,000,000						1,000,000,000
Outstanding amount of notes	750,000,000						750,000,000
Interest rate percent	3.00%						3.00%
Principal Of Assets Securing Debt	2,800,000,000						2,800,000,000
Private Placement [Member] | Trust [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issued amount	1,500,000,000						1,500,000,000
Fixed Rate Debt Surplus Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	941,000,000						941,000,000
Exhangeable Surplus Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	500,000,000						500,000,000
Interest rate percent	5.36%						5.36%
Initial number of shares of common stock per each $1000 principal amount of surplus notes	10.1235						10.1235
Initial Exchange Price Per Share Of Common Stock	$98.78
Maximum consideration percentage	10.00%						10.00%
Exhangeable Surplus Notes [Member] | Upper Limit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Prescribed cash reduction value	$102.62						$102.62
Floating Rate Debt Surplus Notes [Member] | Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	500,000,000						500,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized			3,000,000,000
Fixed Rate Debt Surplus Notes Subject To Set Off Arrangements [Member] | Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member] | RegulationXXX [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	1,750,000,000						1,750,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized	2,000,000,000						2,000,000,000
Fixed Rate Debt Surplus Notes Subject To Set Off Arrangements [Member] | Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member] | Guidline AXXX [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	1,838,000,000						1,838,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized	3,500,000,000		2,000,000,000				3,500,000,000
Future Debt Instrument Authorized			4,000,000,000
Put Option
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Underlying Asset of Put Option	$1.5 billion of 4.419% senior notes due November 2023
Put Option Premium	1.78%						1.78%
Minimum Equity Less AOCI For Automatic Exercise	7,000,000,000						7,000,000,000
Derivative Description Of Terms	ten-year
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Assets Under Set Off Arrangements	500,000,000						500,000,000
CashDividendsPaidtoPrudentialInsurance	500,000,000						500,000,000
Floating Rate Debt Surplus Notes Subject To Set Off Arrangement | Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member] | RegulationXXX [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Outstanding amount of notes	385,000,000						385,000,000
Debt Instrument Authorized	1,750,000,000						1,750,000,000
AffiliatedSurplusNoteSubjecttoSetOffArrangement [Member] | Captive Reinsurance Subsidiary [Member] | RegulationXXX [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Authorized	3,000,000,000						3,000,000,000
SeniorNotes | Other Subsidiaries [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Notes Issued	1,700,000,000
MortgageDebt[Member] | Real Estate subsidiaries [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issued amount	306,000,000						306,000,000
Outstanding amount of notes	502,000,000						502,000,000
Senior Secured Notes Series A [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Redemptions							237,750,000
Redemption Price	237,750,000						237,750,000
Senior Secured Notes Series B [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate percent	7.25%						7.25%
Debt Instrument Redemptions							776,650,000
Redemption Price	1,000,000,000						1,000,000,000
MakeWholePayment	248,000,000						248,000,000
Senior Secured Notes Series C [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate percent	8.70%						8.70%
Debt Instrument Redemptions							585,600,000
Redemption Price	786,000,000						786,000,000
MakeWholePayment	$200,000,000						$200,000,000
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	Assets under set-off arrangements represent a reduction in the amount of surplus notes included in long-term debt, resulting from an arrangement where valid rights of set-off exist and it is the intent of both parties to settle on a net basis under legally enforceable arrangements.
[3]	In November 2013, amendments to these facilities extended their terms by approximately 2 years. The expiration dates above reflect that extension.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Lo

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	$23,804		$25,953
Assets Under Set Off Arrangements	3,973	[1]	2,400	[1]
Long-term debt	19,831	[2]	23,553	[2]
Senior Secured Notes Series A [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	18-Dec-17
Interest Rate	1.12%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	0	[4]	238	[4]
Senior Secured Notes Series B [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	18-Dec-23
Interest Rate	7.25%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	0	[4]	777	[4]
Senior Secured Notes Series C [Member] | Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	18-Dec-23
Interest Rate	8.70%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	0	[4]	585	[4]
Fixed Rate Debt Surplus Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2015
Maximum Maturity Date	2025
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	5.36%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	8.30%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	841		941
Fixed Rate Debt Surplus Notes Subject To Set Off Arrangements [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2021
Maximum Maturity Date	2033
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	3.52%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	5.26%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	3,588		2,400
Fixed Rate Senior Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2015
Maximum Maturity Date	2044
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	2.30%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	11.31%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	10,842		12,151	[5]
Floating Rate Debt Surplus Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2016
Maximum Maturity Date	2052
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	0.51%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	3.44%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	500		3,200
Floating Rate Debt Foreign Currency Denominated Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	1.33%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	1.42%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	53	[6]	100	[6]
Floating Rate U S Denominated Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2015
Maximum Maturity Date	2020
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	0.40%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	4.88%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	2,209		677
Junior Subordinated Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2042
Maximum Maturity Date	2068
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	5.20%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	8.88%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	4,884		4,884
FixedRateMortgageDebt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2019
Maximum Maturity Date	2024
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	1.72%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	3.80%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	142	[7]	0	[7]
Floating Rate Mortgage Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2017
Maximum Maturity Date	2024
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum	1.36%	[3]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum	3.11%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	360	[8]	0	[8]
FloatingRateDebtSurplusNotesSubjectToSetOffArrangements [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	17-Dec-24
Interest Rate	1.65%	[3]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	$385		$0
[1]	Assets under set-off arrangements represent a reduction in the amount of surplus notes included in long-term debt, resulting from an arrangement where valid rights of set-off exist and it is the intent of both parties to settle on a net basis under legally enforceable arrangements.
[2]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[3]	Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.
[4]	The IHC Debt was redeemed by Prudential Holdings, LLC in December 2014.
[5]	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2013.
[6]	Perpetual debt that has no stated maturity.
[7]	Includes $71 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $34 million of this debt was presented as fixed-rate senior notes.
[8]	Includes $142 million of debt at December 31, 2014 denominated in foreign currency. As of December 31, 2013, $123 million and $39 million of this debt was presented as floating-rate U.S. dollar-denominated senior notes and floating-rate foreign currency-denominated senior notes, respectively.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Lo1

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Long-Term Debt) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$19,831	[1]	$23,553	[1]
FederalHomeLoanBankAdvancesMaturitiesSummaryDueFromOneToTwoYears			280
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	16,061		16,346
FixedRateForeignCurrencyMortgageDebt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	71		34
FloatingRateForeignCurrencyMortgageDebt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	142		39
Floating Rate USD Mortgage Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt			$123
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Co

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Contractual Maturities for Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
2 years	$1,352
3 years	1,581
4 years	1,431
5 years	1,631
After 5 years	13,836
Long-term debt	$19,831	[1]	$23,553	[1]
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Sc

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Medium-Term Notes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	$2,705	$2,381
Medium Term Notes Issue May 2014 Due May 2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	500
Interest Rate	4.60%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-May-44
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	15-May-14
Medium Term Notes Due May 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	700
Interest Rate	3.50%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-May-24
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	15-May-14
Medium Term Notes Due August 2019[Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	350
Interest Rate	2.35%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Aug-19
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	14-Aug-14
Medium Term Notes Issued August 2014 Due May 2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	250
Interest Rate	4.60%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-May-44
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date	14-Aug-14
Aggregate Principal Amount Due May 2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Medium-term notes	$750
Interest Rate	4.60%

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Sc1

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Junior Subordinated Notes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Junior Subordinated Institutional Notes June 2008 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	17-Jun-08
Issued amount	$600
Interest Rate	8.88%
Optional Redemption Date	6/15/18	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	LIBOR + 5.00%
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Start	6/15/38
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Jun-68
Junior Subordinated Institutional Notes August 2012 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	9-Aug-12
Issued amount	1,000
Interest Rate	5.88%
Optional Redemption Date	9/15/22	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	LIBOR + 4.175%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Sep-42
Junior Subordinated Institutional Notes November 2012 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	19-Nov-12
Issued amount	1,500
Interest Rate	5.63%
Optional Redemption Date	6/15/23	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	LIBOR + 3.920%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Jun-43
Junior Subordinated Retail Notes December 2012 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	4-Dec-12
Issued amount	575
Interest Rate	5.75%
Optional Redemption Date	12/4/17	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	5.75%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Dec-52
Junior Subordinated Retail Notes March 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	14-Mar-13
Issued amount	710
Interest Rate	5.70%
Optional Redemption Date	3/15/18	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	5.70%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Mar-53
Junior Subordinated Institutional Notes March 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Date Of Issuance	22-Mar-13
Issued amount	$500
Interest Rate	5.20%
Optional Redemption Date	3/15/24	[1]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate Terms	LIBOR + 3.040%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	15-Mar-44
[1]	Represents the initial date on which the notes can be redeemed at par solely at the option of the Company, subject in the case of the 8.875% notes to compliance with a replacement capital covenant.

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Su

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Summarized Consolidated Financial Data) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets	$766,655				$731,781				$766,655	$731,781
Liabilities	724,306				695,900				724,306	695,900
Stockholders Equity	41,770				35,278				41,770	35,278
Minority Interest	579				603				579	603
Stockholders Equity Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest	42,349				35,881				42,349	35,881	39,112	34,639
Liabilities And Stockholders Equity	766,655				731,781				766,655	731,781
Revenues	15,725	12,380	13,146	12,854	9,939	11,310	10,041	10,171	54,105	41,461	84,847
Total benefits and expenses	17,475	12,096	11,639	11,136	10,821	9,784	10,810	11,730	52,346	43,145	84,139
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Operating Joint Ventures									1,759	-1,684	708
Profit Loss	-1,447	523	1,113	1,249	-428	1,040	-487	-685	1,438	-560	570
Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest	12	11	23	11	32	13	27	35	57	107	50
Net Income Loss	-1,459	512	1,090	1,238	-460	1,027	-514	-720	1,381	-667	520
Cash flows from operating activities									19,396	8,445	20,909
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities									-17,088	-16,334	-15,420
Cash flows used in financing activities									1,629	2,242	-1,305
Effect of foreign exchange in cash and cash equivalents									-458	-1,014	-335
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS									$3,479	($6,661)	$3,849

ShortTerm_and_LongTerm_Debt_Cr

Short-Term and Long-Term Debt (Credit Facilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
CreditFacility [Line Items]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	$3,750
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company [Member]
CreditFacility [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility Term	5 years	[1]
LineOfCreditFacilityExpiration	22-Nov-18	[1]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	2,000	[1]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company Prudential Funding Combined [Member]
CreditFacility [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility Term	3 years	[1]
LineOfCreditFacilityExpiration	22-Nov-16	[1]
Unsecured committed lines of credit	1,750	[1]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	$0
[1]	In November 2013, amendments to these facilities extended their terms by approximately 2 years. The expiration dates above reflect that extension.

Equity_Common_Stock_and_Class_

Equity (Common Stock and Class B Stock Changes in Number of Shares Issued, Held in Treasury and Outstanding) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Common Stock Issuable [Member]
Beginning Balance	660,100,000		660,100,000		660,100,000
Common Stock issued	0		0		0
Common Stock acquired	0		0		0
Stock-based compensation programs	0		0		0
Ending Balance	660,100,000		660,100,000		660,100,000
Common Stock Held In Treasury [Member]
Beginning Balance	199,000,000		197,100,000		192,100,000
Common Stock issued	0		0		0
Common Stock acquired	11,600,000		10,000,000		11,500,000
Stock-based compensation programs	-5,300,000	[1]	-8,100,000	[1]	-6,500,000	[1]
Ending Balance	205,300,000		199,000,000		197,100,000
Common Stock Outstanding [Member]
Beginning Balance	461,100,000		463,000,000		468,000,000
Common Stock issued	0		0		0
Common Stock acquired	-11,600,000		-10,000,000		-11,500,000
Stock-based compensation programs	5,300,000	[1]	8,100,000	[1]	6,500,000	[1]
Ending Balance	454,800,000		461,100,000		463,000,000
[1]	Represents net shares issued from treasury pursuant to the Company’s stock-based compensation program

Equity_Narrative_Details

Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 18, 2001	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cost of Treasury Stock Acquired	$1,000,000,000	$738,000,000	$650,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0	0
Retained Earnings	14,888,000,000	14,531,000,000						483,800,000
Additional Paid In Capital								167,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	651,000,000	0
Prudential Insurance [Member]
Unassigned Surplus	7,396,000,000
Cumulative Unrealized Investment Gains	3,071,000,000
Percentage of Statutory Surplus	10.00%
Statutory Surplus Balance	10,331,000,000
Statutory Net Gains From Operations	731,000,000
Dividend permitted to be paid without prior approval	1,033,000,000
Statutory Net Income	901,000,000	1,358,000,000	1,382,000,000
Statutory Capital and Surplus	10,331,000,000	9,383,000,000
Description of RBC or solvency margin requirement		If a subsidiary’s Total Adjusted Capital (“TAC”), as calculated in a manner prescribed by the NAIC, falls below the Company Action Level RBC, corrective action is required
RBC or solvency margin ratio multiple	4
Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation [Member]
Dividend permitted to be paid with prior approval	61,000,000
Statutory Net Income	393,000,000	406,000,000	217,000,000
Statutory Capital and Surplus	606,000,000	443,000,000
Description of RBC or solvency margin requirement		If a subsidiary’s Total Adjusted Capital (“TAC”), as calculated in a manner prescribed by the NAIC, falls below the Company Action Level RBC, corrective action is required
RBC or solvency margin ratio multiple	4
Gibraltar Life [Member]
Japan Permitted Percentage of Statutory Earnings w/o approval	83.00%
OtherRestrictionsOnPaymentOfDividends		If statutory retained earnings exceed 100% of statutory paid-in-capital, 100% of prior year statutory after-tax earnings may be paid, after reserving thresholds are met.
RBC or solvency margin ratio multiple	3.5
POJ
Japan Permitted Percentage of Statutory Earnings w/o approval	83.00%
OtherRestrictionsOnPaymentOfDividends		If statutory retained earnings exceed 100% of statutory paid-in-capital, 100% of prior year statutory after-tax earnings may be paid, after reserving thresholds are met.
Japan-Retained Earnings Level- Permitted Percentage of Prior Year Statutory Earnings	100.00%
RBC or solvency margin ratio multiple	3.5
Parent Company [Member]
Cost of Treasury Stock Acquired	999,000,000	738,000,000	650,000,000
Retained Earnings	14,888,000,000	14,531,000,000
Cash and ST Investments, excluding ELA	4,316,000,000
Dividends Or Returns Of Capital Paid To Parent Company	2,476,000,000	3,007,000,000	2,862,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	651,000,000	0
Under June 2012 Board Of Directors Authorization [Member]
Amount of Stock Repurchases Authorized by the Board of Directors										1,000,000,000
Number of Treasury Stock Shares Acquired				3,900,000	6,600,000
Cost of Treasury Stock Acquired				250,000,000	400,000,000
Under June 2013 Board Of Directors Authorization [Member]
Amount of Stock Repurchases Authorized by the Board of Directors				1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000
Number of Treasury Stock Shares Acquired						5,900,000	12,000,000
Cost of Treasury Stock Acquired						500,000,000	1,000,000,000
Under June 2014 Board Of Directors Authorization [Member]
Amount of Stock Repurchases Authorized by the Board of Directors						1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000
Number of Treasury Stock Shares Acquired	5,700,000
Cost of Treasury Stock Acquired	500,000,000
Common Stock [Member] | IPO [Member]
Price Per Share									$27.50
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Number of Treasury Stock Shares Acquired	2,000,000							2,000,000
Common Stock, shares outstanding		2,000,000	2,000,000								2,000,000
Common Class B Stock [Member] | Private Placement [Member]
Price Per Share									$87.50
Number of Common Stock Shares Issued									2,000,000
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Number of Treasury Stock Shares Acquired	2,000,000
Retained Earnings								483,800,000
Additional Paid In Capital								167,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	650,800,000							650,800,000
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member] | Parent Company [Member]
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	$651,000,000

Equity_Balance_of_and_Changes_

Equity (Balance of and Changes in Each Component of "AOCI Attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.") (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Beginning Balance	$8,681
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	4,249		-582		2,667
Ending Balance	16,050		8,681
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Beginning Balance	-113		928		1,107
Change in component during period	-1,066		-1,465		-303
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	-3	[1],[2]	4	[1],[2]	6
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	207		420		118
Ending Balance	-975		-113		928
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Beginning Balance	10,344	[3]	11,402	[3]	5,805	[3]
Change in component during period	15,490	[3]	-1,239	[3]	8,596	[3]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	-1,760	[1],[2],[3],[4]	-289	[1],[2],[3],[4]	36	[3]
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	-4,823	[3]	470	[3]	-3,035	[3]
Ending Balance	19,251	[3]	10,344	[3]	11,402	[3]
Pension and Postretirement Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit (Cost) [Member]
Beginning Balance	-1,550		-2,116		-1,667
Change in component during period	-1,134		749		-800
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	91		125		101
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	367		-308		250
Ending Balance	-2,226		-1,550		-2,116
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Beginning Balance	8,681		10,214		5,245
Change in component during period	13,290		-1,955		7,493
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	-1,672	[1],[2]	-160	[1],[2]	143
Other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	-4,249		582		-2,667
Ending Balance	$16,050		$8,681		$10,214
[1]	All amounts are shown before tax.
[2]	Positive amounts indicate gains/benefits reclassified out of AOCI. Negative amounts indicate losses/costs reclassified out of AOCI.
[3]	Includes cash flow hedges of $206 million, ($446) million and ($257) million as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
[4]	See table below for additional information on unrealized investment gains (losses), including the impact on deferred policy acquisition and other costs, future policy benefits and policyholders’ dividends.

Equity_Balance_of_and_Changes_1

Equity (Balance of and Changes in Each Component of "AOCI Attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.") (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Equity
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain Loss, Cash Flow Hedges	$206	($446)	($257)

Equity_Reclassifications_out_o

Equity (Reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	$1,636		($5,206)		($1,441)
Other Income reclassified from AOCI	-1,978		-3,199		-269
Cash Flow Interest Rates Hedges [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-60	[1],[2],[3]	-24	[1],[2],[3]
Cash Flow Currency Interest Rate Hedges [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	114	[1],[2],[3]	-104	[1],[2],[3]
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1,706	[1],[2]	351	[1],[2]
Joint Ventures And Limited Partnerships [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[1],[2]	66	[1],[2]
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Realized investment gains (losses), net	3	[1],[2]	0	[1],[2]
Other Income reclassified from AOCI	0	[1],[2]	-4	[1],[2]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	3	[1],[2]	-4	[1],[2]	-6
Pension and Postretirement Unrecognized Net Periodic Benefit (Cost) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	-91		-125		-101
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	1,760	[1],[2],[4],[5]	289	[1],[2],[4],[5]	-36	[4]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	1,672	[1],[2]	160	[1],[2]	-143
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service costs reclassed from AOCI	20	[1],[2],[6]	22	[1],[2],[6]
Amortization of actuarial gain (loss), net reclassed from AOCI	-111	[1],[2],[6]	-147	[1],[2],[6]
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Current Period BeforeTax	($91)	[1],[2]	($125)	[1],[2]
[1]	All amounts are shown before tax.
[2]	Positive amounts indicate gains/benefits reclassified out of AOCI. Negative amounts indicate losses/costs reclassified out of AOCI.
[3]	See Note 21 for additional information on cash flow hedges.
[4]	Includes cash flow hedges of $206 million, ($446) million and ($257) million as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
[5]	See table below for additional information on unrealized investment gains (losses), including the impact on deferred policy acquisition and other costs, future policy benefits and policyholders’ dividends.
[6]	See Note 18 for information on employee benefit plans.

Equity_Net_Unrealized_Investme

Equity (Net Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses on Fixed Maturity Securities on which an OTTI loss) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Ending Balance	$16,050		$8,681
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Beginning Balance	10,231		11,433		6,137
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	11,736		-2,863		6,213
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	-1,175		-233		-179
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	3	[1]	5	[1]	61	[1]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-482		331		-32
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-392		301		83
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-874		1,257		-850
Ending Balance	19,047		10,231		11,433
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	113		-31		-332
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	127		157		383
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	31		45		203
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	-3	[2]	-5	[2]	-60	[2]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-1		-5		-6
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-1		1		-6
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-62		-49		-213
Ending Balance	204		113		-31
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	20,494	[3]	25,151	[3]	15,748	[3]
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	18,073	[3]	-4,306	[3]	9,586	[3]
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	-1,807	[3]	-359	[3]	-276	[3]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	4	[1],[3]	8	[1],[3]	93	[1],[3]
Ending Balance	36,764	[3]	20,494	[3]	25,151	[3]
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) Pre Tax [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	110		-194		-1,003
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	196		242		590
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	47		70		312
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	-4	[2]	-8	[2]	-93	[2]
Ending Balance	349		110		-194
Deferred Costs Policy Acquisition And Sales Inducements And Valuation Of Business Acquired, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-719		-1,228		-1,179
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-736		509		-49
Ending Balance	-1,455		-719		-1,228
Deferred Costs Policy Acquisition And Sales Inducements And Valuation Of Business Acquired, Pre Tax [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	-5		3		13
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-1		-8		-10
Ending Balance	-6		-5		3
Future Policy Benefits, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-679		-1,144		-1,270
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-603		465		126
Ending Balance	-1,282		-679		-1,144
Future Policy Benefits, Pre Tax [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	4		3		14
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-1		1		-11
Ending Balance	3		4		3
Deferred Income Tax Liability Benefit [Member]
Beginning Balance	-5,171		-5,719		-2,843
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	-6,337		1,443		-3,373
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	632		126		97
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	-1	[1]	-3	[1]	-32	[1]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	254		-178		17
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	211		-164		-43
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	468		-676		458
Ending Balance	-9,944		-5,171		-5,719
Deferred Income Tax Liability Benefit [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	-60		18		178
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	-69		-85		-207
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	-16		-25		-109
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	1	[2]	3	[2]	33	[2]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired			3		4
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits					5
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	34		26		114
Ending Balance	-110		-60		18
Policyholders Dividends, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-3,694		-5,627		-4,319
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-1,342		1,933		-1,308
Ending Balance	-5,036		-3,694		-5,627
Policyholders Dividends, Pre Tax [Member] | Securities Related to Other Than Temporary Impairments [Member]
Beginning Balance	64		139		466
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-96		-75		-327
Ending Balance	($32)		$64		$139
[1]	Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
[2]	Represents “transfers in” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
[3]	Includes cash flow hedges. See Note 21 for information on cash flow hedges.

Equity_All_Other_Net_Unrealize

Equity (All Other Net Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses in AOCI) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Ending Balance	$16,050		$8,681
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Beginning Balance	10,231		11,433		6,137
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	11,736		-2,863		6,213
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	-1,175		-233		-179
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	3	[1]	5	[1]	61	[1]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-482		331		-32
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-392		301		83
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-874		1,257		-850
Ending Balance	19,047		10,231		11,433
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	20,494	[2]	25,151	[2]	15,748	[2]
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	18,073	[2]	-4,306	[2]	9,586	[2]
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	-1,807	[2]	-359	[2]	-276	[2]
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	4	[1],[2]	8	[1],[2]	93	[1],[2]
Ending Balance	36,764	[2]	20,494	[2]	25,151	[2]
Deferred Costs Policy Acquisition And Sales Inducements And Valuation Of Business Acquired, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-719		-1,228		-1,179
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	-736		509		-49
Ending Balance	-1,455		-719		-1,228
Future Policy Benefits, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-679		-1,144		-1,270
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	-603		465		126
Ending Balance	-1,282		-679		-1,144
Policyholders Dividends, Pre Tax [Member]
Beginning Balance	-3,694		-5,627		-4,319
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	-1,342		1,933		-1,308
Ending Balance	-5,036		-3,694		-5,627
Deferred Income Tax Liability Benefit [Member]
Beginning Balance	-5,171		-5,719		-2,843
Net investment gains (losses) on investments arising during the period	-6,337		1,443		-3,373
Other comprehensive income loss reclassification adjustment for sale of securities included in net income net of tax	632		126		97
Reclassification adjustment for OTTI losses excluded from net income	-1	[1]	-3	[1]	-32	[1]
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on deferred policy acquisition costs, deferred sales inducements and valuation of business acquired	254		-178		17
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on future policy benefits	211		-164		-43
Impact of net unrealized investment (gains) losses on policyholders' dividends	468		-676		458
Ending Balance	($9,944)		($5,171)		($5,719)
[1]	Represents “transfers out” related to the portion of OTTI losses recognized during the period that were not recognized in earnings for securities with no prior OTTI loss.
[2]	Includes cash flow hedges. See Note 21 for information on cash flow hedges.

Earnings_Per_Share_Narrative_D

Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 02, 2015	Feb. 18, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Undistributed earnings allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards, weighted outstanding shares	4,300,000	4,600,000
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	$23,804,000,000				$25,953,000,000
Surplus notes principle amount				4,000,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	651,000,000				0
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	2,000,000		2,000,000
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	2,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	650,800,000		650,800,000
Exhangeable Surplus Notes [Member]
Long Term Debt Gross Of Set Off Arrangements	500,000,000
Interest Rate	5.36%
Debt Instrument Convertible Exchange Ratio	10.1235
Surplus notes principle amount	$1,000
Initial exchange price per share of Common Stock	$98.78

Earnings_Per_Share_Reconciliat

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliation of the Numerators and Denominators of the Basic and Diluted Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Income
Less: Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	$12		$11		$23		$11		$32		$13		$27		$35		$57	$107		$50
Basic earnings per share
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	($2.70)		$1		$2.25		$2.62		($0.93)	[1]	$2.06	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Diluted earnings per share
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	($2.70)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.21	[1]	$2.58	[1]	($0.93)	[1]	$2.02	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Common Stock [Member]
Income
Income from continuing operations attributable to the Financial Services Businesses																	1,579	-613		512
Direct equity adjustment																	-27	2		20
Less: Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests																	57	107		50
Less: Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards																	14	8		7
Income from continuing operations attributable to the Financial Services Businesses available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment																	1,481	-726		475
Add: Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards - Basic																	14	8		7
Less: Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating unvested share-based payment awards - Diluted																	14	8		7
Exchangeable Surplus Notes																	17	0		0
Income from continuing operations attributable to the Financial Services Businesses available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment																	$1,498	($726)		$475
Weighted Average Shares
Weighted Average Shares Basic																	458.5	463.1		465.6
Stock options																	3	0	[2]	1.9
Deferred and long-term compensation programs																	0.8	0	[2]	0.6
Exchangeable Surplus Notes																	5.4	0		0
Weighted Average Shares Diluted																	467.7	463.1	[2]	468.1	[3]
Basic earnings per share
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share																	$3.23	($1.57)		$1.02
Diluted earnings per share
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share																	$3.20	($1.57)		$1.01
[1]	         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.
[2]	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, weighted average shares for basic earnings per share is also used for calculating diluted earnings per share because dilutive shares and dilutive earnings per share are not applicable when a loss from continuing operations is reported. As a result of the loss from continuing operations available to holders of Common Stock after direct equity adjustment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, all potential stock options and compensation programs were considered antidilutive.
[3]	For the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, weighted average shares used for calculating diluted earnings per share excludes the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes since the hypothetical impact of these shares was antidilutive. In calculating diluted earnings per share under the if-converted method, the potential shares that would be issued related to the exchangeable surplus notes assuming a hypothetical exchange, weighted for the period the notes are outstanding, is added to the denominator, and interest expense, net of tax, is added to the numerator, if the overall effect is dilutive.

Earnings_Per_Share_Antidilutiv

Earnings Per Share (Antidilutive Securities Excluded From the Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Weighted average shares of antidilutive security excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	1.9	24	13.3
Employee And Non Employee Stock Option [Member] | Loss From Continuing Operation Available To Holders Of Common Stock After Direct Equity Adjustment [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Weighted average shares of antidilutive security excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	0	12.2	0
Employee And Non Employee Stock Option [Member] | Treasury Stock Method [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Weighted average shares of antidilutive security excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	1.9	6.6	13.3
Weighted average exercise price of options excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	90.3	73.51	69.8
Employee And Non Employee Resricted Stock Shares Restricted Stock Units Performance Shares And Performance Units [Member] | Loss From Continuing Operation Available To Holders Of Common Stock After Direct Equity Adjustment [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Weighted average shares of antidilutive security excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share	0	5.2	0

Earnings_Per_Share_Income_from

Earnings Per Share (Income from Continuing Operations Per Share of Class B Stock) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Jun. 30, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Basic earnings per share

Basic and diluted income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Class B Stock

($180.77)

[1]

$25

[1]

$22

[1]

$7.50

[1]

($14)

[1]

$29.50

[1]

$1

[1]

$5.50

[1]

Common Class B Stock [Member]

Income from continuing operations attributable to the Closed Block Business

($153)

$46

$43

Less: Direct equity adjustment

-27

2

20

Income from continuing operations attributable to the Closed Block Business available to holders of Class B Stock after direct equity adjustment

($126)

$44

$23

Weighted Average Shares

Weighted Average Shares Basic

1.8

[2]

2

2

Basic earnings per share

Basic and diluted income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Class B Stock

($70)

$22

$11.50

[1]

         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

[2]

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, weighted average shares reflect the reclassification on December 1, 2014 of the 2.0 million shares previously outstanding to “held in treasury,” as a result of the Share Repurchase Agreement between Prudential Financial and the Class B Holders.

ShareBased_Payments_Narrative_

Share-Based Payments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cash used to settle performance units	$15		$10
Omnibus Incentive Plan [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Authorized shares remain available for grant including previously authorized but unissued shares under the Option Plan	11,597,104
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum term of stock option granted (in years)	10
The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	97		146	66
Weighed Average grant date fair value of stock options granted	$21.65		$13.72	$16.36
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	8
Weighted Average Recognition Period (in years)	0 years 10 months 29 days
Employee And Non Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Tax Benefit realized for exercises of employee and non-employee stock options	35		51	21
Employee Restricted Stock Restricted Units And Performance Shares [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
The fair market value of share awards released	145		106	196
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	93
Weighted Average Recognition Period (in years)	1 year 5 months 7 days
The number of employee restricted stock units and performance shares expected to vest	5,454,817
Employee And Non Employee Resricted Stock Shares Restricted Stock Units Performance Shares And Performance Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Tax benefit realized upon vesting of restricted stock shares, restricted stock units, and performance shares	$51		$38	$69
Employee Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted Fair Value	$84.56		$57.94	$58.89
Employee Performance Shares And Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted Fair Value	$90.46	[1]	$92.22	$53.33
[1]	For performance share and performance unit awards, the grant date is the same as the date the grant vests. The features of the grant are such that a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award between the employee and employer have not been reached until the grant is vested. Consequently, the weighted average grant date fair value as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is the closing stock price of Prudential Financial’s common stock on those dates.

SharedBased_Payments_Weighted_

Shared-Based Payments (Weighted Average Grant Date Assumptions Used in Binomial Optional Valuation Model) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Expected Volatility	35.52%	36.44%	41.80%
Expected dividend yield	2.70%	3.00%	3.00%
Expected term	5 years 7 months 20 days	5 years 6 months 10 days	5 years 5 months 11 days
Risk-free interest rate	1.74%	1.01%	0.93%

ShareBased_Payments_Compensati

Share-Based Payments (Compensation Cost Recognized and Related Income Tax Benefit for Stock Options, Restricted Stock Shares, Restricted Stock Units, and Performance Share Awards) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total Compensation Cost Recognized	$166	$217	$155
Income Tax Benefit	60	78	55
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total Compensation Cost Recognized	25	43	45
Income Tax Benefit	9	15	16
Employee Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total Compensation Cost Recognized	95	88	84
Income Tax Benefit	34	32	30
Employee Performance Shares And Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total Compensation Cost Recognized	46	86	26
Income Tax Benefit	$17	$31	$9

ShareBased_Payments_Summary_of

Share-Based Payments (Summary of the Status of the Company's Employee Stock Option Grants) (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares Outstanding Beginning Balance	14,994,449
Granted	694,019
Exercised	-3,380,297
Shares Forfeited	-19,498
Shares Expired	-57,176
Shares Outstanding Ending Balance	12,231,497
Shares - Vested and Expected to Vest Ending Balance	12,161,071
Shares Exercisable Ending Balance	8,680,804
Weighted Average Exercise Price Beginning of Period	$62.79
Granted Weighted Average Exercise Price	$84.50
Exercised Weighted Average Exercise Price	$59.30
Forfeited Weighted Average Exercise Price	$58.36
Expired Weighted Average Exercise Price	$88.75
Weighted Average Exercise Price End of Period	$64.88
Weigted Average Price Vested and Expected to Vest, Ending balance	$64.85
Weighted Average Price Exercisable Ending Balance	$65.66

ShareBased_Payments_Weighted_A

Share-Based Payments (Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term and Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Outstanding, Vested and Expected to Vest, and Exercisable) (Details) (Employee Stock Option [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 0 months 11 days
Vested and expected to vest, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 0 months 4 days
Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 11 months 27 days
Outstanding, Intrinsic Value	$315
Vested and Expected to Vest, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	313
Exercisable, Intrinsic Value	$217

ShareBased_Payments_Summary_of1

Share-Based Payments (Summary of the Comapny's Employee Restricted Stock Shares, Restricted Stock Units and Performance Shares (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Employee Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted Shares Beginning	4,364,106
Granted Shares	1,295,137
Forfeited Shares	-78,877
Released Shares	-1,377,475
Restricted Shares Ending	4,202,891		4,364,106
Restricted Fair Value Beginning of Period	$59.93
Granted Fair Value	$84.56		$57.94		$58.89
Forfeited Fair Value	$67.46
Released Fair Value	$63.19
Restricted Fair Value End of Period	$66.31		$59.93
Employee Performance Shares And Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted Shares Beginning	1,012,990	[1]
Granted Shares	461,646	[1]
Forfeited Shares	-16,381	[1]
Performance Adjustment Shares	75,338	[1],[2]
Released Shares	-358,792	[1]
Restricted Shares Ending	1,174,801	[1]	1,012,990	[1]
Restricted Fair Value Beginning of Period	$92.22	[3]
Granted Fair Value	$90.46	[3]	$92.22		$53.33
Forfeited Fair Value	$84.30
Performance Adjustment Fair Value	$84.53
Released Fair Value	$84.53
Restricted Fair Value End of Period	$90.46	[3]	$92.22	[3]
[1]	Performance share and performance unit awards reflect the target units awarded, reduced for forfeitures and releases to date. The actual number of units to be awarded at the end of each performance period will range between 0% and 150% of the target number of units granted for performance periods beginning prior to 2014 and between 0% and 125% thereafter, based upon a measure of the reported performance for the Company’s Financial Services Businesses relative to stated goals.
[2]	Represents the difference between the target units granted and the actual units awarded based upon the attainment of performance goals for the Company’s Financial Services Businesses.
[3]	For performance share and performance unit awards, the grant date is the same as the date the grant vests. The features of the grant are such that a mutual understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award between the employee and employer have not been reached until the grant is vested. Consequently, the weighted average grant date fair value as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is the closing stock price of Prudential Financial’s common stock on those dates.

SharedBased_Payments_Summary_o

Shared-Based Payments (Summary of the Company's Employee Restricted Stock Shares, Restrcited Stock Units and Performance Shares) (Parenthetical) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Number of shares to be awarded at the end of each performance period, lower limit	0.00%	0.00%
Number of shares to be awarded at the end of each performance period, upper limit	125.00%	150.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Narrati

Employee Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
General Description of employee benefit plans	The Company has funded and non-funded non-contributory defined benefit pension plans, which cover substantially all of its employees. For some employees, benefits are based on final average earnings and length of service, while benefits for other employees are based on an account balance that takes into consideration age, service and earnings during their career. The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for its retired employees, their beneficiaries and covered dependents (“other postretirement benefits”). The health care plan is contributory; the life insurance plan is non-contributory. Substantially all of the Company’s U.S. employees may become eligible to receive other postretirement benefits if they retire after age 55 with at least 10 years of service or under certain circumstances after age 50 with at least 20 years of continuous service. The Company updated its mortality assumption as of December 31, 2014 with respect to its measure of its domestic pension and postretirement obligations as a result of a review of plan experience following the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) final issuance in October 2014 of a study of rates of mortality and expected future improvement in mortality rates for U.S. participants. The foreign plans use the most current published mortality tables related to the foreign location. The Company's evaluation resulted in an increase in its domestic obligations for pensions and postretirement of $458 million or 4.9% and $124 million or 6.3%, respectively. The offset to these benefit obligation increases was recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive IncomeAOCI as of December 31, 2014. The mortality assumption update will result in an increase in future benefit cost in 2015 of $76 million and $15 million for the pension and postretirement plans, respectively. The 2015 cost increases include additional amortization of actuarial losses for pension and postretirement of $51 million and $9 million, respectively. As a result of this mortality assumption change, future benefit payments are expected to increase and based upon the specific funding method for a given benefit plan, will be sourced primarily from existing plan assets or via employer contributions. The increases in the undiscounted expected cash outflows underlying the domestic benefit obligations are distributed whereby 8% occurs in the next ten years from December 31, 2014, 23% in the next ten year band and 69% in the remaining future years. The domestic obligations will increase further if actual mortality improvements are better than the assumption used. A 25% increase in the improvement scale would increase the domestic obligations by approximately $115 million at December 31, 2014. On December 6, 2013, the Company transferred $340 million of assets within the qualified pension plan under Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code from assets supporting pension benefits to assets supporting retiree medical and life benefits. The transfer resulted in a reduction to the prepaid benefit cost for the qualified pension plan and an offsetting decrease in the accrued benefit liability for the postretirement plan with no net effect on stockholders’ equity on the Company’s consolidated financial position. The transfer had no impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, but will reduce the future cash contributions required to be made to the postretirement plan. Prepaid benefits costs and accrued benefit liabilities are included in “Other assets” and “Other liabilities,” respectively, in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The status of these plans as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 is summarized below:
Determining the discount rate for Defined Benefit Obligation	The domestic discount rate used to value the pension and postretirement obligations at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 is based upon the value of a portfolio of Aa investments whose cash flows would be available to pay the benefit obligation's cash flows when due. The December 31, 2014 portfolio is selected from a compilation of approximately 740 Aa-rated bonds across the full range of maturities. Since yields can vary widely at each maturity point, the Company generally avoids using the highest and lowest yielding bonds at the maturity points, so as to avoid relying on bonds that might be mispriced or misrated. This refinement process generally results in having a distribution from the 10th to 90th percentile. The Aa portfolio is then selected and, accordingly, its value is a measure of the benefit obligation. A single equivalent discount rate is calculated to equate the value of the Aa portfolio to the cash flows for the benefit obligation. The result is rounded to the nearest 5 basis points and the benefit obligation is recalculated using the rounded discount rate.
Percentage of annual salary Contributed by the Company for employees (401(k) plans)		4.00%
Other Liabilities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net accumulated liability for non-retiree postemployment benefits provided to former or inactive employee	$55	$68
General And Administrative Expense [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discretionary contributions from the Company to defined benefit or other plans	60	57	54
Lower Limit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Bond Yield rate used in determining Discount rate	10.00%
Upper Limit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Bond Yield rate used in determining Discount rate	90.00%
Non Qualified Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] | Rabbi Trust [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Obligation	1,168	918
Defined Benefit Plan Assets	656	561
Non Qualified Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] | Rabbi Trust [Member] | Discontinued Operations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Obligation	83	73
Defined Benefit Plan Assets	123	116
Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension benefits for foreign plans percentage of the ending benefit obligation	13.00%	16.00%
Defined Benefit Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations	5.00%	5.00%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Obligation	12,545	10,886	12,042
Defined Benefit Plan Assets	13,028	12,069	12,686
Defined Benefit Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Benefit obligation increase (decrease) related to plan amendments	-1	2
Net periodic (benefit) cost	93	3	-18
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	6.25%
Defined Benefit Plans Estimated Future Employer Contributionsin Next Fiscal Year	125
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Annuity Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Obligation	21
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Obligation	2,233	2,102	2,372
Defined Benefit Plan Assets	1,717	1,745	1,329
Defined Benefit Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Benefit obligation increase (decrease) related to plan amendments	0	0
Net periodic (benefit) cost	12	63	71
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.00%
Defined Benefit Plans Estimated Future Employer Contributionsin Next Fiscal Year	$10

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Status_

Employee Benefit Plans (Status of Prepaid Benefits Costs and Accrued Benefit Liabilities Included in Other Assets and Other Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Change in plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan Assets Transferred To From		$340
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Change in Benefit Obligation
Benefit obligation at the beginning of the period	-10,886	-12,042
Acquisitions/Divestiture	0	0
Service cost	-234	-252	-243
Interest cost	-481	-437	-474
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Medicare Part D subsidy receipts	0	0
Amendments	1	-2
Annuity purchase	0	1
Actuarial gains/(losses), net	-1,804	844
Settlements	42	5
Special termination benefits	-4	-2
Benefits paid	620	691
Foreign currency changes and other	201	308
Benefit obligation at end of period	-12,545	-10,886	-12,042
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	12,069	12,686
Actual Return on Plan Assets	1,515	266
Annuity purchase	0	-1
Employer contributions	165	206
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Disbursements for settlements	-42	-5
Benefits paid	-620	-691
Foreign currency changes and other	-59	-52
Defined Benefit Plan Assets Transferred To From	0	-340
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	13,028	12,069	12,686
Funded status of plan at end of period	483	1,183
Amounts recognized in the Statement of Financial Position
Prepaid benefit cost	2,828	3,354
Accrued benefit liability	-2,345	-2,171
Net amount recognized	483	1,183
Items recorded in "Accumulated other comprehensive income' not year recognized as a component of net periodic (benefit) cost:
Transition obligation	0	0
Prior service cost	-42	-56
Net actuarial losst	2,946	2,065
Net amount not recognized	2,904	2,009
Accumulated benefit obligation	-11,964	-10,374
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Change in Benefit Obligation
Benefit obligation at the beginning of the period	-2,102	-2,372
Acquisitions/Divestiture	0	-3
Service cost	-17	-17	-14
Interest cost	-96	-89	-101
Plan participants' contributions	-29	-28
Medicare Part D subsidy receipts	-8	-12
Amendments	0	0
Annuity purchase	0	0
Actuarial gains/(losses), net	-169	220
Settlements	0	0
Special termination benefits	0	0
Benefits paid	184	200
Foreign currency changes and other	4	-1
Benefit obligation at end of period	-2,233	-2,102	-2,372
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	1,745	1,329
Actual Return on Plan Assets	120	244
Annuity purchase	0	0
Employer contributions	7	18
Plan participants' contributions	29	28
Disbursements for settlements	0	0
Benefits paid	-184	-200
Foreign currency changes and other	0	-14
Defined Benefit Plan Assets Transferred To From	0	340
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	1,717	1,745	1,329
Funded status of plan at end of period	-516	-357
Amounts recognized in the Statement of Financial Position
Prepaid benefit cost	0	0
Accrued benefit liability	-516	-357
Net amount recognized	-516	-357
Items recorded in "Accumulated other comprehensive income' not year recognized as a component of net periodic (benefit) cost:
Transition obligation	0	0
Prior service cost	-8	-19
Net actuarial losst	600	463
Net amount not recognized	592	444
Accumulated benefit obligation	($2,233)	($2,102)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Informa

Employee Benefit Plans (Information for Pension Plans with a Projected and Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Information On Pension Plans With Projected Benefit Obligation In Excess Of Plan Assets [Abstract]
Projected Benefit Obligation	$2,379	$2,457
Fair value of plan assets	34	286
Information On Pension Plans With Accumulated Benefit Obligation In Excess Of Plan Assets [Abstract]
Accumulated benefit obligation	2,164	2,258
Fair value of plan assets	$33	$258

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Compone

Employee Benefit Plans (Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Included in General and Administrative Expenses) (Details) and (Parenthetical Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$234		$252		$243
Interest cost	481		437		474
Expected return on plan assets	-712		-769		-809
Amortization of transition obligation	0		0		0
Amortization of prior service cost	-10		-10		13
Amortization of actuarial gain (loss), net	86		91		45
Settlements	10		0		9
Curtailments	0		0		0
Special Termination Benefits	4	[1]	2	[1]	7	[1]
Net periodic (benefit) cost	93		3		-18
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	17		17		14
Interest cost	96		89		101
Expected return on plan assets	-116		-87		-87
Amortization of transition obligation	0		0		1
Amortization of prior service cost	-10		-12		-12
Amortization of actuarial gain (loss), net	25		56		54
Settlements	0		0		0
Curtailments	0		0		0
Special Termination Benefits	0		0		0
Net periodic (benefit) cost	$12		$63		$71
[1]	Certain employees were provided special termination benefits under non-qualified plans in the form of unreduced early retirement benefits as a result of their involuntary termination

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Amounts

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income not yet Recognized) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	$2,009
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	160
Balance, end of period	2,904
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Transition Obligation [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	0	0	0
Amortization for the period	0	0	0
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year			0
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	0	0	0
Balance, end of period	0	0	0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Prior Service Credit And Cost [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	-56	-81	-9
Amortization for the period	10	10	-13
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	-1	2	-62
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	5	13	3
Balance, end of period	-42	-56	-81
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Actuarial Gains And Losses [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	2,065	2,548	1,815
Amortization for the period	-86	-91	-45
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	1,001	-341	810
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	-34	-51	-32
Balance, end of period	2,946	2,065	2,548
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	444
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	33
Balance, end of period	592
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Transition Obligation [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	0	0	1
Amortization for the period	0	0	-1
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	0	0	0
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	0	0	0
Balance, end of period	0	0	0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Prior Service Credit And Cost [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	-19	-30	-42
Amortization for the period	10	12	12
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	0	0	0
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	1	-1	0
Balance, end of period	-8	-19	-30
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Actuarial Gains And Losses [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of year	463	893	861
Amortization for the period	-25	-56	-54
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	165	-377	81
Impact of foreign currency changes and other	-3	3	5
Balance, end of period	$600	$463	$893

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Amounts1

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected to be Recognized as Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost in Subsequent Year) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Future Amortization Of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	($8)
Defined Benefit Plan Future Amortization Of Gain (Loss)	168
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	160
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Future Amortization Of Prior Service Cost (Credit)	-5
Defined Benefit Plan Future Amortization Of Gain (Loss)	38
Defined Benefit Plan Amount To Be Amortized From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Next Fiscal Year	$33

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Assumpt

Employee Benefit Plans (Assumptions Related to Calculation of Domestic Benefit Obligation (End of Period) and Determination of Net Periodic (Benefit) Cost (Beginning of Period)) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected return on plan assets	6.25%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Beginning Of Period [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.95%	4.05%	4.85%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%
Expected return on plan assets	6.25%	6.25%	6.75%
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | End Of Period [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.10%	4.95%	4.05%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Beginning Of Period [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	4.75%	3.85%	4.60%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Ultimate health care cost trend rate	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Year that rate reaches ultimate health care trend rate	2019	2017	2017
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Beginning Of Period [Member] | Approximate Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Health care cost trend rates	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Beginning Of Period [Member] | Approximate Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Health care cost trend rates	7.50%	7.50%	7.50%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | End Of Period [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate	3.95%	4.75%	3.85%
Ultimate health care cost trend rate	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Year that rate reaches ultimate health care trend rate	2019	2019	2017
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | End Of Period [Member] | Approximate Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Health care cost trend rates	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | End Of Period [Member] | Approximate Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Health care cost trend rates	7.08%	7.50%	7.50%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Effects

Employee Benefit Plans (Effects of a One-Percentage Point Increase and Decrease in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Increase in total service and interest costs	$8
Increase in postretirement benefit obligations	160
Decrease in total service and interest costs	6
Decrease in postretirement benefit obligation	$125

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Asset_A

Employee Benefit Plans (Asset Allocation Targets Reflecting a Percentage of Total Assets by Asset Class) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	2.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	15.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	47.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	61.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	2.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	15.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	2.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	10.00%
Debt Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	51.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	70.00%
Debt Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	1.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	38.00%
Short-term Investments [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	14.00%
Short-term Investments [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	44.00%
Real Estate [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	2.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	15.00%
Real Estate [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Other Investment [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	15.00%
Other Investment [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%
Maximum Asset Allocation Target Percent	0.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Pension

Employee Benefit Plans (Pension and Post Retirement Asset Allocations in Accordance with Investment Guidelines) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$13,028		$12,069		$12,686
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	968		1,251
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	570		439
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	881	[1]	1,170	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	323	[2]	349	[2]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	87	[1]	81	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	202	[3]	40	[3]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	45	[4]	50	[4]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	9,050		8,155
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,197	[5]	1,117	[5]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	490	[6]	506	[6]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	320	[7]	266	[7]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1		2
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	852		1,005
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	694		636
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	16		17
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,564	[8]	3,676	[8]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25		24
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	112	[9]	137	[9]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-1		-3
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	28		28
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	789	[10]	783	[10]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-37	[11]	-39	[12]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	40		79
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	39		78
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1		1
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Real Estate [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	801		676
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	465	[13]	356	[13]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	336		320
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investment [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,599		1,469
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	455		374
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,144		1,095
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	712		717
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[2]	0	[2]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[3]	0	[3]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[4]	0	[4]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[5]	0	[5]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[6]	0	[6]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[7]	0	[7]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[8]	0	[8]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[9]	0	[9]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	712	[10]	717	[10]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[11]	0	[12]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[13]	0	[13]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	9,794		9,093
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	881	[1]	1,170	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	323	[2]	349	[2]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	87	[1]	81	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	202	[3]	40	[3]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	45	[4]	50	[4]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,162	[5]	1,085	[5]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	490	[6]	506	[6]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	320	[7]	266	[7]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1		2
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	852		1,005
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	694		636
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	16		17
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4,550	[8]	3,660	[8]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	25		24
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	112	[9]	137	[9]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-1		-3
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	28		28
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	4	[10]	0	[10]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-37	[11]	-39	[12]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	39		78
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1		1
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[13]	0	[13]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,522		2,259
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[2]	0	[2]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[1]	0	[1]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[3]	0	[3]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[4]	0	[4]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	35	[5]	32	[5]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[6]	0	[6]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[7]	0	[7]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	14	[8]	16	[8]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[9]	0	[9]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	73	[10]	66	[10]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[11]	0	[12]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | United Kingdom Insurance Pooled Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	465	[13]	356	[13]
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	336		320
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	455		374
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Hedge Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,144		1,095
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,717		1,745		1,329
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	977		880
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	83		87
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	155	[14]	136	[14]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	22	[15]	23	[15]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Other Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	124		110
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	698	[16]	634	[16]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	61	[17]	64	[17]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	577		725
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	31	[18]	29	[18]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	5		7
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	116		289
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	3		3
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	7		4
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	255	[19]	236	[19]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	77		61
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	39	[9]	35	[9]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-8		-7
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	52	[20]	68	[20]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[21]	0	[22]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	80		53
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Other Investment Companies [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	80		53
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	261		237
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[14]	0	[14]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[15]	0	[15]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Other Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	124		110
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[16]	0	[16]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[17]	0	[17]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[18]	0	[18]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[19]	0	[19]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[9]	0	[9]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	57	[20]	74	[20]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[21]	0	[22]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Other Investment Companies [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	80		53
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,459		1,508
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	155	[14]	136	[14]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	22	[15]	23	[15]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Other Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	698	[16]	634	[16]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	61	[17]	64	[17]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	31	[18]	29	[18]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	5		7
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	116		289
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	3		3
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	7		4
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	254	[19]	235	[19]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	76		56
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	39	[9]	35	[9]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-8		-7
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[20]	0	[20]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[21]	0	[22]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Other Investment Companies [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-3		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[14]	0	[14]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[15]	0	[15]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Other Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | United States Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[16]	0	[16]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member] | International Entities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[17]	0	[17]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Common Collective Trusts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[18]	0	[18]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1	[19]	1	[19]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	1		5
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[9]	0	[9]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	-5	[20]	-6	[20]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Unrealized Gain Loss On Investment Of Securities Lending Collateral [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0	[21]	0	[22]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Other Investment Companies [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	0		0
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Short-term Investments [Member] | Investment Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets	$0		$0
[1]	         These categories invest in U.S. equity funds whose objective is to track or outperform various indexes.
[2]	This category invests in a large cap international equity funds whose objective is to track an index.
[3]	This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap, whose objective is to outperform various indexes. For 2014, this category also includes a global equity fund, primarily focused on new market leaders with sustainable competitive advantage.
[4]	This category invests in an international equity fund whose objective is to track an index.
[5]	This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated private placement securities.
[6]	This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated public securities whose objective is to outperform an index.
[7]	This category invests in bond funds, primarily highly rated corporate securities.
[8]	This category invests in highly rated corporate securities.
[9]	This category invests in highly rated Collateralized Mortgage Obligations.
[10]	Primarily cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables, and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
[11]	The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $717 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $754 million.
[12]	The contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $701 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $740 million.
[13]	This category invests in commercial real estate and real estate securities funds, whose objective is to outperform an index.
[14]	This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities.
[15]	This category fund invests in large cap international equity fund whose objective is to outperform an index.
[16]	This category invests in U.S. equity funds, primarily large cap equities whose objective is to track an index via pooled separate accounts and registered investment companies
[17]	This category invests in international equity funds, primarily large cap international equities whose objective is to track an index.
[18]	This category invests in U.S. bonds funds.
[19]	This category invests in highly rated corporate bonds.
[20]	Cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, payables and receivables and open future contract positions (including fixed income collateral).
[21]	In 2014 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $10 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $10 million.
[22]	In 2013 the contractual net value of the investment of securities lending collateral invested in primarily short-term bond funds is $16 million and the liability for securities lending collateral is $16 million.

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Pension1

Employee Benefit Plans (Pension and Post-Retirement Asset Allocations in Accordance with Investment Guidelines) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net Value of investment of securities lending collateral invested in short-term bond	$717	$701
Liabilitiy for securities lending collateral	754	740
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
DerivativeNotionalAmount	1,536	623
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net Value of investment of securities lending collateral invested in short-term bond	10	16
Liabilitiy for securities lending collateral	10	16
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
DerivativeNotionalAmount	$1,024	$861

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Changes

Employee Benefit Plans (Changes in Fair Value of Level 3 Pension and Post Retirement Assets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	$16	$12
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	0	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	-2	4
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	14	16
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	66	58
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	0	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	7	8
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	73	66
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	32	32
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	3	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	0	0
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	35	32
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Pooled Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	356	322
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	49	46
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	5	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	55	-12
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	465	356
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Real Estate [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	320	185
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	6	35
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	10	100
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	336	320
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Partnership Interest [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	374	598
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	53	48
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	28	7
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	-279
Fair Value, end of period	455	374
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Other Investment [Member] | Hedge Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1,095	707
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	49	106
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	4
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	0	-1
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	279
Fair Value, end of period	1,144	1,095
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1	2
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	0	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	0	-1
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	1	1
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Other Fixed Maturities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	-6	-4
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	0	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	1	-2
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	0	0
Fair Value, end of period	-5	-6
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	5	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets [Abstract]
Actual Return On Assets Still Held	0	0
Actual Return Assets Sold During Period	0	0
Purchases, Sales, Issuances and Settlements	1	5
Transfers into\out of level 3, Net	-5	0
Fair Value, end of period	$1	$5

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary of Pension and Postretirement Plan Asset Allocation) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	100.00%	100.00%
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	12.00%	14.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	62.00%	55.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	7.00%	10.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	57.00%	50.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	5.00%	4.00%
Equity Securities [Member] | International Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	5.00%	5.00%
Debt Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	69.00%	67.00%
Debt Securities [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	34.00%	39.00%
Short-term Investments [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	0.00%	1.00%
Short-term Investments [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	4.00%	6.00%
Real Estate [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	6.00%	6.00%
Real Estate [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	0.00%	0.00%
Other Investment [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	13.00%	12.00%
Other Investment [Member] | United States Entities [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Percentage of asset class to total plan assets (actual)	0.00%	0.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Expecte

Employee Benefit Plans (Expected Benefit Payments for Company's Pension and Postretirement Plans as well as Expected Medicare Part D Subsidy Receipts Related to Postretirement Plan) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2014	$652
2015	677
2016	697
2017	717
2018	741
2019-2023	4,045
Total expected benefit payments	7,529
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2014	172
2015	174
2016	176
2017	177
2018	177
2019-2023	870
Total expected benefit payments	1,746
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] | Medicare Part D [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2014	13
2015	14
2016	15
2017	15
2018	15
2019-2023	83
Total expected subsidy receipts	$155

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Dividends	35.00%
Section 420 Transfer		$340
Non Taxable Medicare Part D		43
Income tax expense (benefit) on discontinued operations	6	3	8
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	349	-1,058	213
Income tax expense (benefit reported in equity related to other comprehensive income	4,249	-582	2,667
Hedging IDD	$475

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes (Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
U.S.	($80)	($292)	$674
State and Local	-7	16	27
Foreign	463	310	387
Total	376	34	1,088
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
U.S.	880	44	-437
State and Local	12	0	-5
Foreign	-919	-1,136	-433
Total	-27	-1,092	-875
Tax expense (benefit)	349	-1,058	213
Income Tax Expense Benefit On Equity In Earnings Of Operating Joint Ventures	-2	19	19
Income tax expense (benefit) on discontinued operations	6	3	8
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss)	4,249	-582	2,667
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation	-29	-32	-56
Total Income Taxes	$4,573	($1,650)	$2,851

Income_Taxes_Foreign_Domestic_

Income Taxes (Foreign & Domestic Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic Operations	$3,487	$1,274	$1,138
Foreign Operations	($1,728)	($2,958)	($430)

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_To

Income Taxes (Reconciliation To Effective Rate) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract]
Expected federal income tax expense (benefit)	$616	($589)	$248
Reversal Of Acquisition Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Items	53	55	384
Non-taxable investment income	-381	-319	-302
Low income housing and other tax credits	-127	-105	-78
Foreign taxes at other than US rate	140	-36	-51
Medicare Part D	-3	43	1
Repatriation change	32	0	6
Minority Interest	19	37	17
State and Local Income Taxes	-2	10	15
Other Adjustments	34	6	9
Total income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations before equity in earnings of operating joint ventures	$349	($1,058)	$213
Federal income tax rate	35.00%

Income_Taxes_Utilization_of_Op

Income Taxes - Utilization of Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Utilization Of Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets [Line Items]
Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets After Valuation Allowance That Will Result In Additional Tax Expense		$734
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2009		13
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2010		6
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2011		223
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2012		384
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2013	108		55
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2014		53
Subtotal		734
Additional Tax Expense Benefit Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income		0
Unrecognized balance of additional tax expense		0
Gibraltar Life [Member]
Utilization Of Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets [Line Items]
Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets After Valuation Allowance That Will Result In Additional Tax Expense		56
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2009		13
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2010		6
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2011		-29
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2012		51
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2013			15
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2014		0
Subtotal		56
Additional Tax Expense Benefit Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income		0
Unrecognized balance of additional tax expense		0
AIG Star Life Insurance Co Ltd AIG Edison Life Insurance Company and Related Entities [Member]
Utilization Of Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets [Line Items]
Opening Balance Sheet Deferred Tax Assets After Valuation Allowance That Will Result In Additional Tax Expense		678
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2009		0
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2010		0
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2011		252
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2012		333
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2013			40
Additional Tax Expense Recognized In Statement Of Operations 2014		53
Subtotal		678
Additional Tax Expense Benefit Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income		0
Unrecognized balance of additional tax expense		$0

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Tax_Asse

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilitites) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
Policyholder Dividends	$2,552	$1,797
Net operating and capital loss carryforwards	256	358
Employee Benefits	825	477
Insurance Reserves	4,361	2,760
Investments	0	1,510
Other	285	472
Deferred tax assets before valuation allowance	8,279	7,374
Valuation Allowance	-277	-235
Deferred Tax Assets after valuation allowance	8,002	7,139
Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract]
Net unrealized investment gains	12,713	7,147
Unremitted Foreign Earnings	512	679
Value Of Business Acquired Deferred Tax Liability	924	1,204
Investments	171	0
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	4,049	4,208
Deferred Tax Liabilities	18,369	13,238
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	($10,367)	($6,099)

Income_Taxes_Valuation_Allowan

Income Taxes (Valuation Allowance) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance	($277)	($235)
Foreign Country [Member]
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance	25	27
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance	$252	$208

Income_Taxes_Operating_and_Cap

Income Taxes (Operating and Capital Loss Carryforwards) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
General business credits	$136	[1]	$0
Alternative minimum tax credits	248	[2]	226
Domestic Country [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating And Capital Loss Carryforwards	0		0
Foreign Country [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	53	[3]	505
Foreign Country [Member] | Operating Loss Expiring Between 2018 And 2022 [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	36
Foreign Country [Member] | Net Operating Loss Indefinite Life [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	17
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating And Capital Loss Carryforwards			3,945
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Operating Loss Expiring Between 2018 And 2022 [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Net Operating And Capital Loss Carryforwards	$5,895	[4]
[1]	Expires between 2031 and 2034.
[2]	Alternative minimum tax credits do not expire.
[3]	$36 million expires between 2019 and 2023 and $17 million has an unlimited carryforward.
[4]	Expires between 2015 and 2034.

Income_Taxes_Undistributed_Ear

Income Taxes (Undistributed Earnings) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Undistributed Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiaries	$2,396	$1,973	$1,747

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Abstract]
Amount, Beginning of Period	$11	$19	$90
Increase in unrecognized tax benefits taken in prior periods	0	0	16
(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits taken in prior periods	0	-7	-4
Increase in unrecognized tax benefits taken in current period	0	0	0
(Decreases) in unrecognized tax benefits taken in current period	0	0	0
Settlements with taxing authorities	-5	-1	-83
Amount, End of Period	6	11	19
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate	$6	$11	$19

Income_Taxes_Amounts_Recognize

Income Taxes (Amounts Recognized for Tax Related Interest and Penalties) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Expense [Abstract]
Interest and penalties recognized in the consolidated statements of operations	$2	$1	$4
Interest and penalties recognized in liabiltiies in the consolidated statements of financial position	$4	$6

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi2

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	$46,432,000,000	[1],[2]	$41,008,000,000	[1],[2]
Other Long Term Investments	10,921,000,000	[2]	10,328,000,000	[2]
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities	6,058,000,000	[2]	3,302,000,000	[2]
Embedded Derivative Fair Value of Embedded Derivative	8,162,000,000		430,000,000
Fair Value Assets Level1 To Level2 Transfers	2,100,000,000		4,000,000,000
Fair Value Assets Level2 to Level1 Transfers	100,000,000		5,000,000,000
DerivativeAssetCollateralObligationToReturnCashOffset	-12,332,000,000	[3]	-7,241,000,000	[3]
Derivative Liability Collateral Right To Reclaim Cash Offset	-6,661,000,000	[3]	-7,257,000,000	[3]
Netting And Collateral [Member]
Embedded Derivative Fair Value of Embedded Derivative	-5,671,000,000		16,000,000
Commercial Mortgage Loans Fair Value Based On Discounted Cash Flow Pricing Model [Member]
Non-recurring Fair Value net loss adjustment	0		9,000,000		-2,000,000
Commercial Mortgage Loans Carrying Value Non Recurring	0		27,000,000
Cost-method Investments [Member]
Non-recurring Fair Value net loss adjustment	21,000,000		21,000,000		4,000,000
Non Accrual Loans [Member]
Contractual principal amounts of commercial mortgage loans, for which the fair value option has been elected	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans Carrying Value Non Recurring	0
Fair Value Option [Member]
Interest income recorded on certain commercial loans	11,000,000		10,000,000		13,000,000
Contractual principal amounts of commercial mortgage loans, for which the fair value option has been elected	372,000,000		154,000,000
Other Long Term Investments	1,082,000,000		873,000,000
Notes Of Consolidated Variable Interest Entities	6,033,000,000		3,254,000,000
Commercial Mortgage Loans Carrying Value Non Recurring	380,000,000		158,000,000
Interest Expense	200,000,000		106,000,000
Notes Of Vies Contractual Principle Amount	6,216,000,000		3,276,000,000
Mortgage Servicing Rights [Member]
Non-recurring Fair Value net loss adjustment	-7,000,000		-16,000,000		14,000,000
Real Estate [Member]
Non-recurring Fair Value net loss adjustment	0		0		4,000,000
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Non-recurring Fair Value net loss adjustment	0		0		46,000,000
Liability For Future Policy Benefits [Member]
Embedded Derivative Fair Value of Embedded Derivative	-8,200,000,000		-400,000,000
Embedded Derivative Fair Value Of Embedded Derivative Liability	8,800,000,000		1,900,000,000
Embedded Derivative Fair Value Of Embedded Derivative Asset	$600,000,000		$1,500,000,000
[1]	Includes loans held at fair value.
[2]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[3]	“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi3

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Balances of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	$299,090	[1]	$286,866	[1]
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)(1)	9,861		9,910
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	46,432	[1],[2]	41,008	[1],[2]
Other Long Term Investments	10,921	[1]	10,328	[1]
Short-term investments	8,258		7,703
Other assets	13,379	[1]	13,833	[1]
Separate account assets	296,435		285,060
Total assets	766,655		731,781
Future policy benefits	217,766		206,859
Total liabilities	724,306		695,900
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	299,090		286,866
Trading Account Assets - Totals	31,137	[3]	27,280	[3]
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)(1)	9,861		9,910
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	380		158
Other Long Term Investments	1,772		1,529
Short-term investments	7,735		7,185
Cash equivalents	11,845		6,982
Other assets	115		216
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	361,935		340,126
Separate account assets	296,435	[4]	285,060	[4]
Total assets	658,370		625,186
Future policy benefits	8,182	[5]	441	[5]
Other liabilities	228		2,207
Notes of consolidated VIEs	6,033		3,254
Total liabilities	14,443		5,902
Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability And Obligation To Return Cash Offset	-12,332	[6]	-7,241	[6]
DerivativeLiabilityFairValueGrossAssetAndRightToReclaimCashOffset	-6,661	[6]	-7,257	[6]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Trading Account Assets [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability And Obligation To Return Cash Offset	-12,321	[6]	-7,246	[6]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability And Obligation To Return Cash Offset	-11	[6]	5	[6]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
DerivativeLiabilityFairValueGrossAssetAndRightToReclaimCashOffset	-6,661	[6]	-7,257	[6]
US Treasury And Government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	20,123		15,400
Trading Account Assets - Debt	399	[3]	266	[3]
Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	6,531		3,735
Trading Account Assets - Debt	199	[3]	190	[3]
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	80,941		82,788
Trading Account Assets - Debt	717	[3]	643	[3]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	160,376		153,778
Trading Account Assets - Debt	20,270	[3]	16,980	[3]
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	11,185		10,258
Trading Account Assets - Debt	1,243	[3]	1,271	[3]
Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	13,877		13,873
Trading Account Assets - Debt	2,561	[3]	2,467	[3]
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	6,057		7,034
Trading Account Assets - Debt	1,774	[3]	1,837	[3]
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Equity Securities	2,291	[3]	2,376	[3]
Other Activity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Other	1,683	[3],[7]	1,250	[3],[7]
Other Activity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Trading Account Assets [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability And Obligation To Return Cash Offset	-12,321	[6]	-7,246	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Totals	1,590	[3]	1,900	[3]
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)(1)	6,688		6,938
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	0		0
Other Long Term Investments	12		19
Short-term investments	5,263		6,139
Cash equivalents	2,657		2,461
Other assets	4		3
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	16,214		17,460
Separate account assets	48,063	[4]	49,182	[4]
Total assets	64,277		66,642
Future policy benefits	0	[5]	0	[5]
Other liabilities	1		1
Notes of consolidated VIEs	0		0
Total liabilities	1		1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Equity Securities	1,396	[3]	1,309	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Other	194	[3],[7]	591	[3],[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	293,424		281,921
Trading Account Assets - Totals	40,648	[3]	31,258	[3]
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)(1)	2,898		2,668
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	380		158
Other Long Term Investments	224		109
Short-term investments	2,472		1,046
Cash equivalents	9,188		4,521
Other assets	109		209
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	349,343		321,890
Separate account assets	223,710	[4]	213,275	[4]
Total assets	573,053		535,165
Future policy benefits	0	[5]	0	[5]
Other liabilities	6,883		9,458
Notes of consolidated VIEs	0		0
Total liabilities	6,883		9,458
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	20,123		15,400
Trading Account Assets - Debt	399	[3]	266	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	6,525		3,735
Trading Account Assets - Debt	199	[3]	190	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	80,939		82,787
Trading Account Assets - Debt	696	[3]	643	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	159,073		152,449
Trading Account Assets - Debt	20,146	[3]	16,865	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	7,126		7,146
Trading Account Assets - Debt	850	[3]	876	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	13,834		13,708
Trading Account Assets - Debt	2,556	[3]	2,466	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	5,804		6,696
Trading Account Assets - Debt	1,767	[3]	1,828	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Equity Securities	232	[3]	225	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Other	13,803	[3],[7]	7,899	[3],[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	5,666		4,945
Trading Account Assets - Totals	1,220	[3]	1,368	[3]
Equity securities, available for sale, at fair value (cost: 2014 - $6,921; 2013 - $7,003)(1)	275		304
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	0		0
Other Long Term Investments	1,547		1,396
Short-term investments	0		0
Cash equivalents	0		0
Other assets	2		4
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	8,710	[8]	8,017	[8]
Separate account assets	24,662	[4]	22,603	[4]
Total assets	33,372		30,620
Future policy benefits	8,182	[5]	441	[5]
Other liabilities	5		5
Notes of consolidated VIEs	6,033		3,254
Total liabilities	14,220		3,700
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	0		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	6		0
Trading Account Assets - Debt	0	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	2		1
Trading Account Assets - Debt	21	[3]	0	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	1,303		1,329
Trading Account Assets - Debt	124	[3]	115	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	4,059		3,112
Trading Account Assets - Debt	393	[3]	395	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	43		165
Trading Account Assets - Debt	5	[3]	1	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value	253		338
Trading Account Assets - Debt	7	[3]	9	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Equity Securities	663	[3]	842	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Trading Account Assets - Other	$7	[3],[7]	$6	[3],[7]
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	Includes loans held at fair value.
[3]	Includes “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities” and “Other trading account assets”.
[4]	Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account assets classified as Level 3 consist primarily of real estate and real estate investment funds. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
[5]	For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
[6]	“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral of $5,671 million and ($16) million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty, subject to master netting arrangements.
[7]	Level 1 represents cash equivalents and short term investments. All other amounts primarily represent derivative assets.
[8]	Includes assets classified as fixed maturities available-for-sale, trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi4

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Level 3 by Pricing Source) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	$46,432	[1],[2]	$41,008	[1],[2]
Other Long Term Investments	10,921	[2]	10,328	[2]
Separate Account Assets	296,435		285,060
Total assets	766,655		731,781
Future policy benefits	217,766		206,859
Total liabilities	724,306		695,900
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	380		158
Other Long Term Investments	1,772		1,529
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	361,935		340,126
Separate Account Assets	296,435	[3]	285,060	[3]
Total assets	658,370		625,186
Future policy benefits	8,182	[4]	441	[4]
Other liabilities	228		2,207
Notes of consolidated VIEs	6,033		3,254
Total liabilities	14,443		5,902
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Equity Securities	938		1,146
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	0		0
Other Long Term Investments	1,547		1,396
Other assets	9		10
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	8,710	[5]	8,017	[5]
Separate Account Assets	24,662	[3]	22,603	[3]
Total assets	33,372		30,620
Future policy benefits	8,182	[4]	441	[4]
Other liabilities	5		5
Notes of consolidated VIEs	6,033		3,254
Total liabilities	14,220		3,700
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Equity Securities	140	[6]	141	[6]
Other Long Term Investments	1	[6]	9	[6]
Other assets	9	[6]	10	[6]
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	1,125	[5],[6]	1,120	[5],[6]
Separate Account Assets	23,632	[6]	21,665	[6]
Total assets	24,757	[6]	22,785	[6]
Future policy benefits	8,182	[6]	441	[6]
Other liabilities	2	[6]	5	[6]
Notes of consolidated VIEs	0	[6]	0	[6]
Total liabilities	8,184	[6]	446	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member] | Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total commercial mortgage and other loans	943		793
Real Estate Investments	22,641		20,806
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Equity Securities	798	[7]	1,005	[7]
Other Long Term Investments	1,546	[7]	1,387	[7]
Other assets	0	[7]	0	[7]
Subtotal excluding separate account assets	7,585	[5],[7]	6,897	[5],[7]
Separate Account Assets	1,030	[7]	938	[7]
Total assets	8,615	[7]	7,835	[7]
Future policy benefits	0	[7]	0	[7]
Other liabilities	3	[7]	0	[7]
Notes of consolidated VIEs	6,033	[7]	3,254	[7]
Total liabilities	6,036	[7]	3,254	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	6
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	6	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	0	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	23		1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	0	[6]	0	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Foreign Government Debt [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	23	[7]	1	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	1,427		1,444
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	752	[6]	660	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	675	[7]	784	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	4,452		3,507
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	150	[6]	209	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	4,302	[7]	3,298	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	48		166
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	10	[6]	14	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	38	[7]	152	[7]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	260		347
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Internal Pricing [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	57	[6]	77	[6]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | External Priced [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Fixed Maturities	$203	[7]	$270	[7]
[1]	Includes loans held at fair value.
[2]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[3]	Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account assets classified as Level 3 consist primarily of real estate and real estate investment funds. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
[4]	For the year ended December 31, 2014, the net embedded derivative liability position of $8.2 billion includes $0.6 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $8.8 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the net embedded derivative liability position of $0.4 billion includes $1.5 billion of embedded derivatives in an asset position and $1.9 billion of embedded derivatives in a liability position. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.
[5]	Includes assets classified as fixed maturities available-for-sale, trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities and other trading account assets.
[6]	Represents valuations reflecting both internally-derived and market inputs, as well as third party pricing information or quotes. See below for additional information related to internally-developed valuation for significant items in the above table.
[7]	Represents unadjusted prices from independent pricing services and independent indicative broker quotes where pricing inputs are not readily available.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi5

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Quantiative Info for Level 3 Inputs) (Details) (Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
EBITDA	7	[1],[2]	8	[1]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	15.00%		15.00%
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidation Value	100.00%		100.00%
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
EBITDA	6.1	[1],[2]	5	[1]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	0.84%		1.25%
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidation Value	22.12%		11.61%
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Weighted Average [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
EBITDA	6.1	[1],[2]	6	[1]
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Weighted Average [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	7.73%		8.52%
Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Weighted Average [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidation Value	82.92%		59.17%
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidity Premium			2.00%
Prepayment Rate			27.41%	[3]
Default Rate			31.85%	[3]
Loss Severity			45.00%	[3]
Average Life			14.76
Comparable Spreads			45.19%
Comparable Security Yields			10.00%
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidity Premium			1.00%
Prepayment Rate			11.11%	[3]
Default Rate			2.00%	[3]
Loss Severity			15.06%	[3]
Average Life			0.47
Comparable Spreads			0.19%
Comparable Security Yields			0.61%
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Weighted Average [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Liquidity Premium			1.90%
Prepayment Rate			19.91%	[3]
Default Rate			8.63%	[3]
Loss Severity			33.00%	[3]
Average Life			5.53
Comparable Spreads			6.76%
Comparable Security Yields			6.52%
Future Policy Benefits [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Volatility Curve	28.00%	[4]	28.00%	[4]
Lapse Rate	14.00%	[4],[5]	11.00%	[4],[5]
NPR Spread	1.30%	[4],[6]	1.09%	[4],[6]
Utilization Rate	96.00%	[4],[7]	94.00%	[4],[7]
Withdrawal Rate	100.00%	[4],[8]	100.00%	[4],[8]
Mortality Rate	14.00%	[4],[9]	13.00%	[4],[9]
Future Policy Benefits [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Volatility Curve	17.00%	[4]	15.00%	[4]
Lapse Rate	0.00%	[4],[5]	0.00%	[4],[5]
NPR Spread	0.00%	[4],[6]	0.08%	[4],[6]
Utilization Rate	63.00%	[4],[7]	70.00%	[4],[7]
Withdrawal Rate	74.00%	[4],[8]	86.00%	[4],[8]
Mortality Rate	0.00%	[4],[9]	0.00%	[4],[9]
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	15.00%		15.00%
Cap Rate	9.75%		11.00%
Yield To Maturity	6.76%		6.85%
Market Spread Over Base Rate	4.76%		4.75%
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Credit Risk	8.39%		1.98%
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	6.00%		6.00%
Cap Rate	4.50%		4.15%
Yield To Maturity	0.77%		1.13%
Market Spread Over Base Rate	1.50%		1.60%
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Credit Risk	1.17%		1.25%
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Weighted Average [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Tech [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Discount Rate	7.36%		7.71%
Cap Rate	6.05%		6.35%
Yield To Maturity	4.02%		4.17%
Market Spread Over Base Rate	2.67%		2.87%
Separate Account Real Estate [Member] | Weighted Average [Member] | Income Approach Valuation [Member]
Fair Value Quantiative Information [Line Items]
Credit Risk	1.44%		1.47%
[1]	EBITDA multiples represent multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and are amounts used when the reporting entity has determined that market participants would use such multiples when pricing the investments.
[2]	Conversely, the impact of a decrease in input would have the opposite impact for the fair value as that presented in the table.
[3]	In isolation, an increase in prepayment rate or a decrease in default rate or loss severity would generally result in an increase in fair value, although the interrelationships between these inputs depend on specific market conditions.
[4]	Future policy benefits primarily represent general account liabilities for the optional living benefit features of the Company’s variable annuity contracts which are accounted for as embedded derivatives. Since the valuation methodology for these liabilities uses a range of inputs that vary at the contract level over the cash flow projection period, presenting a range, rather than weighted average, is a more meaningful representation of the unobservable inputs used in the valuation.
[5]	Lapse rates are adjusted at the contract level based on the in-the-moneyness of the living benefit and reflect other factors, such as the applicability of any surrender charges. Lapse rates are reduced when contracts are more in-the-money. Lapse rates are also generally assumed to be lower for the period where surrender charges apply.
[6]	To reflect NPR, the Company incorporates an additional spread over LIBOR into the discount rate used in the valuation of individual living benefit contracts in a liability position and generally not to those in a contra-liability position. The NPR spread reflects the financial strength ratings of the Company, as these are insurance liabilities and senior to debt. The additional spread over LIBOR is determined by utilizing the credit spreads associated with issuing funding agreements, adjusted for any illiquidity risk premium.
[7]	The utilization rate assumption estimates the percentage of contracts that will utilize the benefit during the contract duration, and begin lifetime withdrawals at various time intervals from contract inception. The remaining contractholders are assumed to either begin lifetime withdrawals immediately or never utilize the benefit. Utilization assumptions may vary by product type, tax status, and age. The impact of changes in these assumptions is highly dependent on the product type, the age of the contractholder at the time of the sale, and the timing of the first lifetime income withdrawal.
[8]	The withdrawal rate assumption estimates the magnitude of annual contractholder withdrawals relative to the maximum allowable amount under the contract. These assumptions may vary based on the product type, contractholder age, tax status, and withdrawal timing. The fair value of the liability will generally increase the closer the withdrawal rate is to 100%.
[9]	Range reflects the mortality rate for the vast majority of business with living benefits, with policyholders ranging from 35 to 90 years old. While the majority of living benefits have a minimum age requirement, certain benefits do not have an age restriction. This results in contractholders for certain benefits with mortality rates approaching 0%. Based on historical experience, the Company applies a set of age and duration specific mortality rate adjustments compared to standard industry tables. A mortality improvement assumption is also incorporated into the overall mortality table.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi6

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Changes in Level 3 Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	$304		$330		$360
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	8		13		-1
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	9		58		29
Purchases	24		37		69
Sales	-41		-65		-22
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		-3		0
Foreign currency translation	-29		-53		-18
Other	1	[1]	-18	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	7	[2]	6	[2]	5	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-8	[2]	-1	[2]	-92	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	275		304		330
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-2	[3]	-5	[3]	-1	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Equity Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		0		0
Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0				0
Notes Issued By Consolidated V I E [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Beginning of period	-3,254		-1,406		-282
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	201		17		-4
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	-2,980		-1,834		-1,412
Settlements	0		-31		0
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	292	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, End of Period	-6,033		-3,254		-1,406
Included In Earnings
Realized investement gains (losses), net	201	[3]	17	[3]	-4	[3]
Asset management fees and other income					0	[3]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Notes Issued By Consolidated V I E [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income					0
Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	0		0		66
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		0		-2
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	-64	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	0		0		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	0		0		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		0		0
Purchases	2		0		10
Sales	-1		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		0		0
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	5	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	-10	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	6		0		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1		0		25
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		-1		0
Purchases	2		4		0
Sales	0		-1		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		-2		0
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	-8	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	13	[2]	8	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-1	[2]	-12	[2]	-25	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	2		1		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1,329		1,630		1,450
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	20		-30		-35
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	45		-18		195
Purchases	825		477		375
Sales	-636		-126		-165
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-413		-579		-325
Foreign currency translation	-66		-127		-38
Other	4	[1]	0	[1]	71	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	319	[2]	573	[2]	306	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-114	[2]	-467	[2]	-212	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	1,303		1,329		1,630
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-20	[3]	-53	[3]	-1	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	-10		-4		8
Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	3,112		3,230		1,984
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	17		29		21
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	24		-6		94
Purchases	2,743		2,412		2,602
Sales	-346		-320		-426
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-1,046		-1,175		-590
Foreign currency translation	-60		-22		-9
Other	53	[1]	-171	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	1,164	[2]	10	[2]	60	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-1,619	[2]	-912	[2]	-538	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	4,059		3,112		3,230
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	2	[3]	13	[3]	9	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	17		37		32
Debt Securities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	165		124		145
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	4		37		25
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	-1		-19		11
Purchases	869		438		44
Sales	-11		-51		-28
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-5		-41		-14
Foreign currency translation	-1		-9		-5
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	37	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-977	[2]	-314	[2]	-90	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	43		165		124
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		-1
Debt Securities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	338		484		560
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		-2		8
Purchases	0		0		38
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-12		-55		-89
Foreign currency translation	-18		-88		-32
Other	-55	[1]	1	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	253		338		484
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Debt Securities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		-2		-1
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	0		48		86
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		5		2
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		-53		-40
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	0		0		48
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	1	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		0		0
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0				0
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1,396		1,053		1,110
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-8		0		1
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		0		0
Purchases	240		439		186
Sales	-2		0		-25
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-89		-134		-296
Foreign currency translation	-9		-13		2
Other	-79	[1]	-109	[1]	7	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	5	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	-64	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	1,547		1,396		1,053
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-8	[3]	-2	[3]	1	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	94	[3]	155	[3]	56	[3]
Other Long-term Investments [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	94		160		126
Other Long-term Investments [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	-1				6
Other Assets [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	4		8		9
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		-4		0
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances					0
Included in Other Comprehensive Income	0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		-3
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-2		0		0
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	2		4		8
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	-3	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]	0	[3]	2	[3]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances					0	[3]
Other Assets [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		0		2
Other Assets [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0
Separate Accounts Asset [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	22,603	[4]	21,132	[4]	19,358	[4]
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	10	[4]	2	[4]	0	[4]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	2,738	[4]	2,649	[4]	1,932	[4]
Purchases	1,801	[4]	1,653	[4]	4,230	[4]
Sales	-710	[4]	-832	[4]	-1,697	[4]
Issuances	0	[4]	0	[4]	0	[4]
Settlements	-1,783	[4]	-2,120	[4]	-2,272	[4]
Foreign currency translation	-1	[4]	0	[4]	0	[4]
Other	0	[1],[4]	140	[1],[4]	0	[1],[4]
Transfers into Level 3	100	[2],[4]	89	[2],[4]	326	[2],[4]
Transfers out of Level 3	-120	[2],[4]	-130	[2],[4]	-745	[2],[4]
Fair Value, end of period	24,662	[4]	22,603	[4]	21,132	[4]
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3],[4]	0	[3],[4]	0	[3],[4]
Asset management fees and other income					0	[3],[4]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	1,760	[3],[4]	1,652	[3],[4]	1,013	[3],[4]
Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income					0	[4]
Separate Accounts Asset [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	24	[4]	20	[4]
Future Policy Benefits [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Beginning of period	-441		-3,348		-2,886
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	-6,831		3,741		231
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	-910		-836		-694
Settlements	0		0		0
Foreign Currency Translation	0		2		1
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, End of Period	-8,182		-441		-3,348
Included In Earnings
Realized investement gains (losses), net	-6,853	[3]	3,647	[3]	146	[3]
Asset management fees and other income					0	[3]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Future Policy Benefits [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income					0
Other Liabilities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Beginning of period	-5		0		-3
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	2		-3		-23
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		0		26
Foreign Currency Translation	0		0		0
Other	-2	[1]	-2	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, End of Period	-5		-5		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investement gains (losses), net	2	[3]	-3	[3]	-23	[3]
Asset management fees and other income					0	[3]
Interest credited to policyholders' account balances	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Other Liabilities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income					0
Short-term Investments [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period					0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net					-9
Included in Other Comprehensive Income					0
Purchases					9
Sales					0
Issuances					0
Settlements					0
Foreign currency translation					0
Other					0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3					0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3					0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period					0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net					-9	[3]
Asset management fees and other income					0	[3]
Short-term Investments [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income					0
Short-term Investments [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)					0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period			0		9
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net			0		0
Purchases			0		0
Sales			0		0
Issuances			0		0
Settlements			0		-2
Foreign currency translation			0		0
Other			0	[1]	-7	[1]
Transfers into Level 3			0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3			0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period			0		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net			0	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income			0	[3]	0	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income			0		0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)			0		0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0
Purchases	21
Sales	0
Issuances	0
Settlements	0
Foreign currency translation	0
Other	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	21
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	115		134		148
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Purchases	181		23		22
Sales	-160		-13		-12
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-10		-49		-25
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	7	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	9	[2]	52	[2]	5	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-4	[2]	-24	[2]	-4	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	124		115		134
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	6	[3]	-7	[3]	-10	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	-7		-8		-7
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	395		419		403
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Purchases	119		319		182
Sales	-21		-2		-12
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-29		-228		-110
Foreign currency translation	-2		-6		-3
Other	2	[1]	-76	[1]	-1	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	47	[2]	2	[2]	4	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-119	[2]	-45	[2]	-66	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	393		395		419
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]	7	[3]	14	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		7		16
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	1		5		6
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	1		10		35
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Purchases	87		74		16
Sales	0		-1		-5
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		-2		-2
Foreign currency translation	0		-1		-1
Other	-1	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	5	[2]	0	[2]	82	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	-87	[2]	-80	[2]	-118	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	5		1		10
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	0	[3]	0	[3]	2	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		0		2
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		1		1
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	9		12		17
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0		0
Purchases	0		0		2
Sales	0		0		-3
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-1		-3		-4
Foreign currency translation	0		-2		-1
Other	-1	[1]	0	[1]	-1	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	2	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	-1	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	7		9		12
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	1	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	0		1		2
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	842		1,098		1,296
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1		0		0
Purchases	29		17		21
Sales	-64		-140		-170
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	-84		-43		-89
Foreign currency translation	-74		-153		-70
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	3	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	20	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	-1	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	663		842		1,098
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1	[3]	0	[3]	-1	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	16	[3]	50	[3]	78	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	13		63		88
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Equity Securities [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	0		0		0
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Other Activity [Member]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, beginning of period	6		25		93
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		-16		-73
Purchases	0		0		0
Sales	0		0		0
Issuances	0		0		0
Settlements	0		-5		6
Foreign currency translation	0		0		0
Other	0	[1]	0	[1]	-3	[1]
Transfers into Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Fair Value, end of period	7		6		25
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0	[3]	-16	[3]	-73	[3]
Asset management fees and other income	1	[3]	2	[3]	2	[3]
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Asset Management Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
Asset management fees and other income	1		2		2
Trading Account Assets [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Investment Income [Member]
Included In Earnings
All Other Income (Asset Mgt Fees & NII)	$0		$0		$0
[1]	Other primarily represents reclassifications of certain assets between reporting categories.
[2]	Transfers into or out of Level 3 are reported as the value as of the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurs.
[3]	Unrealized gains or losses related to assets still held at the end of the period do not include amortization or accretion of premiums and discounts.
[4]	Separate account assets represent segregated funds that are invested for certain customers. Investment risks associated with market value changes are borne by the customers, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. Separate account liabilities are not included in the above table as they are reported at contract value and not fair value in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi7

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Derivative Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Assets	$1,593		$533
Derivative Liabilities	158		2,156
Derivative Liability Collateral Right To Reclaim Cash Offset	-6,661	[1]	-7,257	[1]
DerivativeAssetCollateralObligationToReturnCashOffset	-12,332	[1]	-7,241	[1]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	11		25
Derivative Liabilities	3		6
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	13,903		7,741
Derivative Liabilities	6,813		9,402
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	11		8
Derivative Liabilities	3		5
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	10,595		6,140
Derivative Liabilities	4,954		7,607
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	5		10
Derivative Liabilities	3		5
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	10,584		6,122
Derivative Liabilities	4,948		7,597
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	6		8
Derivative Liabilities	3		5
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	865		593
Derivative Liabilities	1,025		425
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	865		593
Derivative Liabilities	1,025		425
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Credit Risk Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	7		3
Derivative Liabilities	30		49
Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	7		3
Derivative Liabilities	30		49
Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	1,885		647
Derivative Liabilities	307		857
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	1,885		647
Derivative Liabilities	307		857
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Equity Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	572		390
Derivative Liabilities	503		475
Equity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	5		14
Derivative Liabilities	0		1
Equity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	562		376
Derivative Liabilities	503		474
Equity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	5		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Commodity Contract [Member]
Derivative Assets	1		1
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Commodity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Derivative Assets	1		1
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Commodity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Commodity Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	$0		$0
[1]	“Netting” amounts represent cash collateral and the impact of offsetting asset and liability positions held with the same counterparty.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi8

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Changes in Level 3 Derivative Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Equity Contract [Member]
Fair Value, beginning of period	$0		$19
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1		-15
Fair Value Asset Measured On Recurring Basis Gain Loss Included In Other Income	0		0
Purchases	0		0
Sales	0		0
Issuances	0		0
Settlements	0		-4
Transfers into Level 3	5	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value, end of period	6		0
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	1		-15
Fair Value Asset Measured On Recurring Basis Change In Unrealized Gain Loss Included In Other Income	0		0
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Fair Value, beginning of period	3		3
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0
Fair Value Asset Measured On Recurring Basis Gain Loss Included In Other Income	0		0
Purchases	0		0
Sales	0		0
Issuances	0		0
Settlements	0		0
Transfers into Level 3	0	[1]	0	[1]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value, end of period	3		3
Included In Earnings
Realized investment gains (losses), net	0		0
Fair Value Asset Measured On Recurring Basis Change In Unrealized Gain Loss Included In Other Income	$0		$0
[1]	Transfers into or out of Level 3 are generally reported as the value as of the beginning of the period in which the transfer occurs.

Fair_Value_of_Assets_and_Liabi9

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Changes in Fair Values Recorded in Earnings for FVO Assets-Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Fair Value, Option, Changes in Fair Value, Gain (Loss)	$54	$68	$40
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Changes in instrument-specific credit risk	0	0	0
Other changes in fair value	0	0	-1
Notes Issued By Consolidated V I E [Member]
Fair Value, Option, Changes in Fair Value, Gain (Loss)	($201)	($17)	$2

Recovered_Sheet4

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Financial Instruments where Carrying Amounts and Fair Values May Differ) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	$2,575	[1],[2]	$3,312	[1]
Policy loans	11,712		11,766
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	3,130	[1]	3,089	[1]
Liabilities:
Short-term debt	3,839	[3]	2,669	[3]
Long-term debt	19,831	[4]	23,553	[4]
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	9,407		7,898
Cash collateral for loaned securities	4,241		5,040
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	2,575	[5]	3,312	[5]
Commercial mortgage and other loans	46,052	[5]	40,850	[5]
Policy loans	11,712	[5]	11,766	[5]
Other Long-term Investments Cost Method	1,712	[5]	2,203	[5]
Short Term Investments Not Carried At Fair Value	523	[5]	518	[5]
Cash And Cash Equivalents Not Carried At Fair Value	3,073	[5]	4,457	[5]
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	3,130	[5]	3,089	[5]
Other Assets Not Carried At Fair Value	2,358	[5]	2,561	[5]
Total Assets Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	71,135	[5]	68,756	[5]
Liabilities:
Policyholders' account balances-investment contracts	95,069	[5]	95,476	[5]
Short-term debt	3,839	[5]	2,669	[5]
Long-term debt	19,831	[5]	23,553	[5]
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	9,407	[5]	7,898	[5]
Cash collateral for loaned securities	4,241	[5]	5,040	[5]
Notes of Consolidated VIEs	25	[5]	48	[5]
Other Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	6,374	[5]	6,069	[5]
Separate Account Liabilities Investment Contracts	106,976	[5]	104,234	[5]
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value	245,762	[5]	244,987	[5]
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	2,902		3,553
Commercial mortgage and other loans	48,717		42,649
Policy loans	11,712		11,766
Other Long-term Investments Cost Method	1,917		2,470
Short Term Investments Not Carried At Fair Value	523		518
Cash And Cash Equivalents Not Carried At Fair Value	3,073		4,457
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	3,130		3,089
Other Assets Not Carried At Fair Value	2,358		2,561
Total Assets Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	74,332		71,063
Liabilities:
Policyholders' account balances-investment contracts	96,375		96,600
Short-term debt	3,888		2,718
Long-term debt	22,086		25,569
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	9,407		7,898
Cash collateral for loaned securities	4,241		5,040
Notes of Consolidated VIEs	18		39
Other Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	6,374		6,069
Separate Account Liabilities Investment Contracts	106,976		104,234
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value	249,365		248,167
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	0		0
Commercial mortgage and other loans	0		0
Policy loans	0		0
Other Long-term Investments Cost Method	0		0
Short Term Investments Not Carried At Fair Value	0		0
Cash And Cash Equivalents Not Carried At Fair Value	2,230		3,661
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	0		0
Other Assets Not Carried At Fair Value	143		162
Total Assets Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	2,373		3,823
Liabilities:
Policyholders' account balances-investment contracts	0		0
Short-term debt	0		0
Long-term debt	1,285		1,078
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	0		0
Cash collateral for loaned securities	0		0
Notes of Consolidated VIEs	0		0
Other Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	0		0
Separate Account Liabilities Investment Contracts	0		0
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value	1,285		1,078
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	1,703		2,065
Commercial mortgage and other loans	559		639
Policy loans	0		0
Other Long-term Investments Cost Method	0		0
Short Term Investments Not Carried At Fair Value	523		518
Cash And Cash Equivalents Not Carried At Fair Value	843		796
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	3,130		3,089
Other Assets Not Carried At Fair Value	2,106		2,147
Total Assets Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	8,864		9,254
Liabilities:
Policyholders' account balances-investment contracts	40,264		39,347
Short-term debt	3,784		2,718
Long-term debt	16,718		19,453
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	9,407		7,898
Cash collateral for loaned securities	4,241		5,040
Notes of Consolidated VIEs	0		0
Other Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	6,254		5,803
Separate Account Liabilities Investment Contracts	82,801		82,071
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value	163,469		162,330
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Assets:
Fixed maturities, held to maturity	1,199		1,488
Commercial mortgage and other loans	48,158		42,010
Policy loans	11,712		11,766
Other Long-term Investments Cost Method	1,917		2,470
Short Term Investments Not Carried At Fair Value	0		0
Cash And Cash Equivalents Not Carried At Fair Value	0		0
Accrued Investment Income Receivable	0		0
Other Assets Not Carried At Fair Value	109		252
Total Assets Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	63,095		57,986
Liabilities:
Policyholders' account balances-investment contracts	56,111		57,253
Short-term debt	104		0
Long-term debt	4,083		5,038
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase	0		0
Cash collateral for loaned securities	0		0
Notes of Consolidated VIEs	18		39
Other Liabilities Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value	120		266
Separate Account Liabilities Investment Contracts	24,175		22,163
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value	$84,611		$84,759
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[3]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[4]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[5]	Carrying values presented herein differ from those in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position because certain items within the respective financial statement captions are not considered financial instruments or out of scope under authoritative guidance relating to disclosures of the fair value of financial instruments. Financial statement captions excluded from the above table are not considered financial instruments.

Derivative_Instruments_Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Anticipated pre-tax loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to earnings	$27
MaxLengthOfTimeHedgedInCashFlowHedge	29 years
Net investment hedges income (loss) before taxes	501	356	117
Notional of credit derivative	500	500
Fair value of credit derivative liability	4	4
Credit protection derivatives outstanding notional amounts	573	1,399
Fair value of credit derivative liability	1
Posted collateral related to derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features	38
CreditDerivativePurchasedCreditProtection	-17	-42
Single Name [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Derivatives Written Max Length Of Maturities	1 year
Credit Default Index [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Derivatives Written Max Length Of Maturities	10 years
Moodys Baa1 Rating [Member] | Single Name [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	5	5
Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net	1	1
Moodys Ba1 Rating [Member] | Credit Default Index [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	1,544
Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net	($2)

Derivative_Instruments_Gross_N

Derivative Instruments (Gross Notional Amount and Fair Value of Derivatives Contracts) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	$439,280	[1],[2]	$419,224	[1],[2],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	13,932	[2]	7,775	[2],[3]
Total Derivatives	1,593		533
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	6,817	[2]	9,418	[2],[3]
Total Derivatives	-158		-2,156
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Notional Value
Qualifying Hedge Relationships	12,929	[1]	12,592	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	705		260	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	366		838	[3]
Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	426,351	[1],[4]	406,632	[1],[3],[4]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	13,227	[4]	7,515	[3],[4]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	6,451	[4]	8,580	[3],[4]
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	10,595		6,140
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	-4,954		-7,607
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Notional Value
Qualifying Hedge Relationships	1,714	[1]	2,556	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	21		26	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	191		253	[3]
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Rate Swap Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	182,937	[1]	171,337	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	9,904		5,727	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	4,578		7,051	[3]
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Futures [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	32,008	[1]	34,424	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	5		10	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	3		5	[3]
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Rate Swaption Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	27,561	[1]	25,308	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	663		370	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	180		297	[3]
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Forward Contracts Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	877	[1]	1,452	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	2		0	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	1		6	[3]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	865		593
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	-1,025		-425
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Notional Value
Qualifying Hedge Relationships	443	[1]	534	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	5		1	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	14		32	[3]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	21,197	[1]	13,122	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	854		587	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	1,011		393	[3]
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Foreign Exchange Option Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	203	[1]	118	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	6		5	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	0		0	[3]
Credit Risk Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	7		3
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	-30		-49
Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Credit Default Swap Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	2,622	[1]	1,890	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	7		3	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	30		49	[3]
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	1,885		647
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	-307		-857
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Currency Swap Member | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Notional Value
Qualifying Hedge Relationships	10,772	[1]	9,502	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	679		233	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	161		553	[3]
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Currency Swap Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	11,083	[1]	7,787	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	1,207		414	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	145		304	[3]
Equity Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	572		390
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	-503		-475
Equity Contract [Member] | Equity Futures [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	331	[1]	262	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	3		1	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	0		1	[3]
Equity Contract [Member] | Equity Options [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	57,590	[1]	61,231	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	504		388	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	41		12	[3]
Equity Contract [Member] | Total Return Swap Member | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	15,217	[1]	11,554	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	65		1	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	462		462	[3]
Synthetic Gics [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	74,707	[1]	78,110	[1],[3],[5]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	6		8	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	0		0	[3]
Synthetic Gics [Member] | Nondesignated [Member] | Scenario Previously Reported [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships			60,758
Commodity Contract [Member]
Fair Value Asset
Total Derivatives	1		1
Fair Value Liability
Total Derivatives	0		0
Commodity Contract [Member] | Futures [Member] | Nondesignated [Member]
Notional Value
Non-Qualifying Hedge Relationships	18	[1]	37	[1],[3]
Fair Value Asset
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Asset	1		1	[3]
Fair Value Liability
Derivative Fair Value Of Derivative Liability	$0		$0	[3]
[1]	Notional amounts are presented on a gross basis and include derivatives used to offset existing positions.
[2]	Excludes embedded derivatives which contain multiple underlyings. The fair value of these embedded derivatives was a net liability of $8,162 million as of December 31, 2014 and a net liability of $430 million as of December 31, 2013, primarily included in “Future policy benefits.”
[3]	Prior period has been revised to include the gross notional amount and fair value of derivative contracts used in a broker-dealer capacity.
[4]	Based on notional amounts, most of the Company’s derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting as follows: i) derivatives that economically hedge embedded derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting because changes in the fair value of the embedded derivatives are already recorded in net income, ii) derivatives that are utilized as macro hedges of the Company’s exposure to various risks typically do not qualify for hedge accounting because they do not meet the criteria required under portfolio hedge accounting rules, and iii) synthetic GICs, which are product standalone derivatives that do not qualify as hedging instruments under hedge accounting rules.
[5]	The gross notional amount as of December 31, 2013 has been revised from $60,758 million to $78,110 million to correct the previously reported amount. This amount does not impact the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Derivative_Instruments_Gross_N1

Derivative Instruments (Gross Notional Amount and Fair Value of Derivatives Contracts) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivative Instruments
Net Embedded Derivative	($8,162)	($430)

Derivative_Instruments_Financi

Derivative Instruments (Financial Statement Classification and Impact of Derivatives Used in Qualifying and Non-qualifying Hedge Relationships) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	($188)		($5,626)		($1,517)
Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-51		-70		-100
Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-22		-23		-15
Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	2		20		32
Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	72		-97		-20
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	797	[1]	50	[1]	48	[1]
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-13		23		-15
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-58		-72		-95
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		4
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	2		20		33
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-4		103		22
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-57		-71		-92
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		4
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	2		20		33
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-9		-80		-37
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-1		-1		-3
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income, Effective Portion, Net	706		-317		-219
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	7		2		-5
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-22		-23		-19
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		-1
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	67		-91		-20
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	652	[1]	-189	[1]	-171	[1]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-22		-23		-19
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		-1
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	38	[1]	26	[1]	14	[1]
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	7		2		-5
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	67		-91		-20
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	614	[1]	-215	[1]	-185	[1]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		-1
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		-4		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	145	[1]	239	[1]	219	[1]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0	[2]	-1	[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0	[2]	0	[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0	[2]	0	[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0	[2]	0	[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		-4	[2]	0	[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	17	[1]	6	[1],[2]	-9	[1],[2]
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	128	[1]	233	[1]	228	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-175		-5,649		-1,501
Nondesignated [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	5		-2		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	7,623		-5,254		413
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-562		-591		-64
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	1,124		131		235
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	5		-2		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-22		-4		-34
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Credit Risk Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-1,605		-3,684		-2,302
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Equity Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	-6,734		3,752		251
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Embedded Derivative [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Net Realized Investments Gain Loss [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	1		1		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Net Investment Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Interest Credited To Policyholder Account Balances [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Other Income [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	0		0		0
Nondesignated [Member] | Commodity Contract [Member] | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member]
Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments Gain (Loss) Recognized In Income Net	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]
[1]	Amounts deferred in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”
[2]	Relates to the sale of equity method investments.

Derivative_Instruments_Current

Derivative Instruments (Current Period Cash Flow Hedges in AOCI (loss) before Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative Instruments
Beginning Balance	($446)	($257)	($86)
Amount reclassified into current period earnings	-54	128	48
Ending Balance	$206	($446)	($257)

Derivative_Instruments_Income_

Derivative Instruments (Income Statement Impact of Derivatives Used in a Dealer or Broker Capacity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax	$18	$10	$23
Global Commodities Business [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax	$1	$1	$0

Derivative_Instruments_Offsett

Derivative Instruments Offsetting Balance Sheet (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Offsetting Assets [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	$14,488		$8,377
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	-12,332		-7,241
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	2,156		1,136
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-1,325		-1,136
Net Amount	831		0
Offsetting Assets [Member] | Derivative [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	13,786		7,721
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	-12,332		-7,241
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	1,454		480
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-623	[1]	-480	[1]
Net Amount	831		0
Offsetting Assets [Member] | Offsetting Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	702		656
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	0		0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	702		656
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-702		-656
Net Amount	0		0
Offsetting Liabilities [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	16,217		17,306
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	-6,661		-7,257
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	9,556		10,049
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-9,556		-9,897
Net Amount	0		152
Offsetting Liabilities [Member] | Derivative [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	6,810		9,408
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	-6,661		-7,257
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	149		2,151
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-149	[1]	-1,999	[1]
Net Amount	0		152
Offsetting Liabilities [Member] | Offsetting Securities Sold Under Agreements To Repurchase [Member]
Offsetting of Financial Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments	9,407		7,898
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position	0		0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in Statement of Financial Position	9,407		7,898
Financial Instruments And Collateral	-9,407		-7,898
Net Amount	$0		$0
[1]	Amounts exclude the excess of collateral received/pledged from/to the counterparty. Prior period has been revised to conform to current period presentation.

Segment_Information_Narrative_

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total deferred gain (loss)		$218
Out of Period Adjustment	160
Synthetic Gic Fees	120	168	157
Corporate and Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Out of Period Adjustment	99
Asset Management [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Out of Period Adjustment	61
Group Insurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Out of Period Adjustment		67
International Insurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Out of Period Adjustment		75
Included In Operating Measure [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Out of Period Adjustment		$165

Segment_Information_Operating_

Segment Information (Operating Income of Reportable Segments) (Reconciling Items) (Details) (Financial Services Business [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	$5,892		$6,369		$4,027
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	-3,588		-9,956		-3,666
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Included In Operating Measure [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	293		240		-75
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Included In Operating Measure [Member] | Current Period Settlements And Yield Adjustment On Derivatives [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	476	[1]	445	[1]	320	[1]
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Included In Operating Measure [Member] | Current Period Settlements And Yield Adjustment On Derivatives [Member] | Terminated Or Offset Derivatives Used For Asset Liability Mismatches [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	105		72		64
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Included In Operating Measure [Member] | Asset Management [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	100	[1]	122	[1]	91	[1]
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Excluded From Operating Measure [Member] | Other Trading [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	-21		168		102
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Excluded From Operating Measure [Member] | Foreign Exchange [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	-3,023		-4,060		-1,750
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Excluded From Operating Measure [Member] | Other Activity [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	13		167		29
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Excluded From Operating Measure [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Losses Recoveries Related To Unsecured Portion Of Derivatives [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	19		146		12
Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Excluded From Operating Measure [Member] | Other Activity [Member] | Non Performance Risk [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income (Loss)	($1)		$30		$36
[1]	In addition to the items in the table above, “Realized investment gains (losses), net, and related charges and adjustments” also includes an adjustment to reflect “Realized investment gains (losses), net” related to divested businesses as results of “Divested businesses”, discussed below.

Segment_Information_Operating_1

Segment Information (Operating Income of Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Operating Joint Ventures	$1,759	($1,684)	$708
Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	5,892	6,369	4,027
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Operating Joint Ventures	2,018	-1,746	644
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	-3,588	-9,956	-3,666
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Related Charges [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	-542	1,807	857
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities Adjustment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	339	-250	610
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Experience Rated Liabilities Due To Asset Changes [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	-294	227	-540
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Divested Businesses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	167	29	-615
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Operating Joint Ventures And Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	44	28	-29
Closed Block [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Operating Joint Ventures	-259	62	64
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	3,467	3,847	2,261
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	521	740	400
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	3,252	3,152	2,704
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	-1,348	-1,370	-1,338
Individual Annuities [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	1,467	2,085	1,039
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	1,215	1,039	638
Asset Management [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	785	723	584
Individual Life [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	498	583	384
Group Insurance [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	23	157	16
International Insurance [Member] | International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	3,252	3,152	2,704
Corporate Operations [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted Operating Income before income taxes	($1,348)	($1,370)	($1,338)

Segment_Information_Certain_Fi

Segment Information (Certain Financial Information for the Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$15,725	$12,380	$13,146	$12,854	$9,939	$11,310	$10,041	$10,171	$54,105	$41,461	$84,847
Net investment income									15,256	14,729	13,661
Policyholders' benefits									31,587	26,733	65,131
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									4,263	3,111	4,234
Policyholder Dividends									2,716	2,050	2,176
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									1,973	240	1,504
Assets	766,655				731,781				766,655	731,781
Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									54,105	41,461	84,847
Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									1,908	1,409	1,391
Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									12,249	11,713	10,508
Policyholders' benefits									28,261	23,399	61,686
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									4,127	2,975	4,097
Policyholder Dividends									81	140	155
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									1,936	203	1,466
Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									47,199	35,425	78,590
Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									1,311	1,261	1,243
Financial Services Business [Member] | Total Operating Segments And Corporate And Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									12,046	11,530	10,370
Policyholders' benefits									27,457	23,170	60,745
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									3,720	3,702	3,804
Policyholder Dividends									82	140	155
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									1,853	1,394	1,966
Assets	695,764				663,379				695,764	663,379
Financial Services Business [Member] | Total Operating Segments And Corporate And Other [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									49,644	45,281	81,103
Financial Services Business [Member] | Total Operating Segments And Corporate And Other [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									1,308	1,260	1,243
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									-5	-13	-24
Policyholders' benefits									0	0	0
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	0
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									-3,588	-9,960	-3,671
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Realized Investment Gains Losses And Related Adjustments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Related Charges [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									0	0	0
Policyholders' benefits									295	-225	-2
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									111	-500	-247
Policyholder Dividends									-1	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									83	-1,191	-716
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Related Charges [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									55	-199	-108
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Related Charges [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities Adjustment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									0	0	0
Policyholders' benefits									0	0	0
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	0
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities Adjustment [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									339	-250	610
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities Adjustment [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Experience Rated Liabilities Due To Asset Changes [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									0	0	0
Policyholders' benefits									0	0	0
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									294	-227	540
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Experience Rated Liabilities Due To Asset Changes [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Experience Rated Liabilities Due To Asset Changes [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Divested Businesses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									208	196	162
Policyholders' benefits									509	454	943
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									2	0	0
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									0	0	216
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Divested Businesses [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									762	631	735
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Divested Businesses [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									3	1	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Operating Joint Ventures And Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									0	0	0
Policyholders' benefits									0	0	0
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	0
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									0	0	0
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Operating Joint Ventures And Noncontrolling Interests [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									-13	-78	-79
Financial Services Business [Member] | Significant Reconciling Items [Member] | Operating Joint Ventures And Noncontrolling Interests [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Closed Block [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									3,007	3,016	3,153
Policyholders' benefits									3,326	3,334	3,445
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									136	136	137
Policyholder Dividends									2,635	1,910	2,021
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									37	37	38
Assets	70,891				68,402				70,891	68,402
Closed Block [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									6,906	6,036	6,257
Closed Block [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									597	148	148
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									4,959	4,847	4,080
Policyholders' benefits									8,817	2,538	33,890
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									1,905	1,910	2,147
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									594	297	411
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									19,627	13,171	42,954
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									142	128	144
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	404,839				376,580				404,839	376,580
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									2,233	1,991	1,619
Policyholders' benefits									6,323	6,168	5,738
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									854	808	557
Policyholder Dividends									32	33	31
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									353	121	424
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									10,583	10,138	8,968
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									542	414	323
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	111,277				104,175				111,277	104,175
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									4,434	4,306	4,268
Policyholders' benefits									12,234	14,499	20,981
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									961	984	1,122
Policyholder Dividends									50	107	124
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									961	1,011	1,173
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									20,066	22,540	29,586
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									4	3	3
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	171,635				168,677				171,635	168,677
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									420	386	403
Policyholders' benefits									83	-35	136
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	-22
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									-55	-35	-42
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									-632	-568	-405
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									620	715	773
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	8,013				13,947				8,013	13,947
Individual Annuities [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									630	693	770
Policyholders' benefits									481	77	573
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									429	381	452
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									543	257	338
Assets	174,951				160,778				174,951	160,778
Individual Annuities [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									4,710	4,465	3,983
Individual Annuities [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									107	91	109
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									4,209	4,067	3,203
Policyholders' benefits									8,336	2,461	33,317	[1]
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									1,476	1,529	1,695
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									31	15	49
Assets	179,674				170,762				179,674	170,762
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									12,077	6,028	36,595	[1]
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member] | Pension Risk Transfer [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues											31,800
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									25	26	20
Asset Management [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									120	87	107
Policyholders' benefits									0	0	0
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	0
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									20	25	24
Assets	50,214				45,040				50,214	45,040
Asset Management [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									2,840	2,678	2,376
Asset Management [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									10	11	15
Asset Management [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Intersegment Elimination [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									645	611	545
Individual Life [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									1,620	1,406	1,033
Policyholders' benefits									2,108	1,869	1,210
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									606	576	329
Policyholder Dividends									32	33	31
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									345	111	419
Assets	70,152				64,990				70,152	64,990
Individual Life [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									5,226	4,620	3,367
Individual Life [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									533	407	316
Group Insurance [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									613	585	586
Policyholders' benefits									4,215	4,299	4,528
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									248	232	228
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									8	10	5
Assets	41,125				39,185				41,125	39,185
Group Insurance [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									5,357	5,518	5,601
Group Insurance [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									9	7	7
International Insurance [Member] | International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									4,434	4,306	4,268
Policyholders' benefits									12,234	14,499	20,981
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									961	984	1,122
Policyholder Dividends									50	107	124
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									961	1,011	1,173
Assets	171,635				168,677				171,635	168,677
International Insurance [Member] | International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									20,066	22,540	29,586
International Insurance [Member] | International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									4	3	3
Corporate Operations [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net investment income									420	386	403
Policyholders' benefits									83	-35	136
Interest Credited to Policyholders Account Balances									0	0	-22
Policyholder Dividends									0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs									-55	-35	-42
Corporate Operations [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									-632	-568	-405
Corporate Operations [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Interest Expense [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Interest Expense									620	715	773
Corporate Operations [Member] | Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$8,013				$13,947				$8,013	$13,947
[1]	In 2012, the Company completed significant non-participating group annuity pension risk transfer transactions with two unaffiliated pension plan sponsors. The premiums from these transactions contributed approximately $31.8 billion to revenue in the Retirement segment. These premiums were largely offset by a corresponding increase in policyholders’ benefits

Segment_Information_Revenues_a

Segment Information (Revenues and Asset Management Revenues) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$15,725	$12,380	$13,146	$12,854	$9,939	$11,310	$10,041	$10,171	$54,105	$41,461	$84,847
Domestic Operations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									35,793	22,222	56,684
Foreign Operations Total [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									18,312	19,239	28,163
Foreign Operations Japan [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									15,461	16,523	26,393
Foreign Operations Korea [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues									$1,484	$1,437	$1,294

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con2

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters (Narrative Excluding Litigation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Commitments Guarantees Contingent Liabilities And Litigation [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net	$225	$253	$287
Capital Leases	28
Serviced Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Guarantees Contingent Liabilities And Litigation [Line Items]
Minimum percentage share of losses incurred of loan balance	2.00%
Maximum percentage share of losses incurred of loan balance	20.00%
Mortgages subject to loss-sharing arrangements	9,929
Average debt service coverage ratio of mortgages subject to loss-sharing arrangements	2.04
Average loan-to-value ratio of mortgages subject to loss-sharing arrangements	62.00%
Indemnification of Serviced Mortgage Loans, Losses	$1	$0	$2
Securities Lending Transactions [Member]
Commitments Guarantees Contingent Liabilities And Litigation [Line Items]
Fair value of the loaned securities, minimum collateral	102.00%
Credit Enhancements [Member]
Commitments Guarantees Contingent Liabilities And Litigation [Line Items]
Guarantee Expiration	15 years

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con3

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters (Commitments and Guarantees) (Lease) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Operating and Capital Leases
2015	$123
2016	106
2017	93
2018	71
2019	55
2020 and thereafter	181
Total	629	[1]
Sublease Income
2015	-1
2016	0
2017	0
2018	0
2019	0
2020 and thereafter	0
Total	($1)
[1]	Future minimum lease payments under capital leases were $28 million as of December 31, 2014

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con4

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters (Commitments and Guarantees) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Premium Tax offset for future assessments	$92		$78
premium tax offset currently available for paid assessments	6		5
Total receivables related to premium tax offsets for assessments	98		83
Insolvency Assessment Liability	39		46
Operating Leases Reserves [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	3
Yield Maintenance Guarantee [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	323		323
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Total outstanding mortgage loan commitments	2,442		2,365
Portion of commitment where prearrangement to sell to investor exists	958		587
Investments Excluding Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Expected to be funded from the general account and other operations outside the separate accounts	4,883	[1]	5,461	[1]
Expected to be funded from separate accounts	28		274
Credit Enhancements [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	5		156
Fair value of related collateral	8		220
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	0		0
Securities Lending Transactions [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	14,334		15,598
Fair value of related collateral	14,740		15,965
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	0		0
Asset Values [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	74,707		78,110
Fair value of related collateral	76,711		79,458
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	-6		-8
Serviced Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	1,248		1,173
First-loss exposure portion of above	388		371
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	16		17
Guarantee Type, Other [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	331		404
Accrued liability associated with guarantee	5		7
Fosun Group [Member] | Investments Excluding Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Expected to be funded from the general account and other operations outside the separate accounts	$194		$256
[1]	         (1) Includes a remaining commitment of $194 million and $256 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the Company’s agreement to co-invest with the Fosun Group (Fosun) in a private equity fund, managed by Fosun, for the Chinese marketplace.

Commitments_and_Guarantees_Con5

Commitments and Guarantees, Contingent Liabilities and Litigation and Regulatory Matters (Litigation Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

29 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

Apr. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2014

Feb. 28, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2005

Sep. 30, 2014

Jan. 31, 2012

31-May-13

Dec. 31, 2010

Sep. 30, 2008

Apr. 30, 2014

Jul. 31, 2014

31-May-14

Dec. 31, 2014

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of lawsuits removed from state courts

7

Number of actions filed by the Company

10

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | United States District Court [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of actions filed by the Company

2

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | New Jersey State Court [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of actions filed by the Company

8

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Origination Underwriting And Sales [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number Of Days To Amend Complaint

45

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Trusts Rights [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of other institutions filing actions along with Company

9

Number of Trusts represented in legal action filed by the Company

2,200

Number of defendants in legal action filed by the company

6

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Trusts Rights [Member] | New York State Court [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of actions filed by the Company

6

Positive Outcome Of Litigation [Member] | LIBOR [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of defendants in legal action filed by the company

10

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Less Than [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Estimate of possible losses in excess of accruals

$250,000,000

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Lederman [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of Complaints Filed Against The Company

11

Number of claimants who are current and former Prudential Insurance employees

235

Claims that settled

193

40

Pending Claims

42

2

Summary Judgements Granted

1

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Lehman Brothers Special Financing [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of (co) defendants in legal action against the company

158

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Abandoned Property [Member] | Global Resolution Agreement [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of states accepting agreement

20

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Abandoned Property [Member] | Sterling Heights [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of lead plaintiffs added

3

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Retained Asset Accounts [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of Complaints Filed Against The Company

4

Litigation And Regulatory Matters [Member] | Overtime Pay [Member] | Bouder [Member]

Litigation [Line Items]

Number of additional state laws allegedly violated

$9

Subsequent_Events_Narrative_De

Subsequent Events (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 10, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 18, 2015	Jan. 02, 2015	Jan. 01, 2015
Subsequent Event Details [Abstract]
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method		$1,651,000,000	$750,000,000	$650,000,000
PercentageOfClassBStockRepurchased						100.00%
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit		14,888,000,000	14,531,000,000			483,800,000
Additional Paid In Capital						167,000,000
Closed Block Reinsurance Percentage		73.00%					90.00%
Assets reinsured to Closed Block		64,889,000,000	62,376,000,000				57,000,000,000
letter of credit							2,000,000,000
Dividends Declared Common Stock	-0.58	-1,005,000,000	-810,000,000	-749,000,000
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		651,000,000	0
Surplus Notes, Principle Amount					$4,000,000,000

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation2

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Revenues	$15,725		$12,380		$13,146		$12,854		$9,939		$11,310		$10,041		$10,171		$54,105	$41,461	$84,847
Total benefits and expenses	17,475		12,096		11,639		11,136		10,821		9,784		10,810		11,730		52,346	43,145	84,139
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS	-1,451		523		1,109		1,245		-424		1,032		-489		-686		1,426	-567	555
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes	4		0		4		4		-4		8		2		1		12	7	15
Profit Loss	-1,447		523		1,113		1,249		-428		1,040		-487		-685		1,438	-560	570
Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest	12		11		23		11		32		13		27		35		57	107	50
Net Income Loss	($1,459)		$512		$1,090		$1,238		($460)		$1,027		($514)		($720)		$1,381	($667)	$520
Basic Income from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	($2.70)		$1		$2.25		$2.62		($0.93)	[1]	$2.06	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Basic Income from discontinued operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$0.01		$0		$0.01		$0.01		($0.01)	[1]	$0.01	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]
Basic net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock	($2.69)		$1		$2.26		$2.63		($0.94)	[1]	$2.07	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Diluted Income from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	($2.70)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.21	[1]	$2.58	[1]	($0.93)	[1]	$2.02	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Diluted Income from discontinued operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Common Stock	$0.01	[1]	$0	[1]	$0.01	[1]	$0.01	[1]	($0.01)	[1]	$0.02	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock	($2.69)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.22	[1]	$2.59	[1]	($0.94)	[1]	$2.04	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Basic and diluted income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Class B Stock	($180.77)	[1]	$25	[1]	$22	[1]	$7.50	[1]	($14)	[1]	$29.50	[1]	$1	[1]	$5.50	[1]
Basic and diluted income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Class B Stock	$0.77	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]	$0	[1]
Basic and diluted net income attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share of Class B Stock	($180)	[1]	$25	[1]	$22	[1]	$7.50	[1]	($14)	[1]	$29.50	[1]	$1	[1]	$5.50	[1]
[1]	         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation3

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount																			$160
Net Income Loss	-1,459		512		1,090		1,238		-460		1,027		-514		-720		1,381	-667	520
Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc. per share - Common Stock	($2.69)	[1]	$0.99	[1]	$2.22	[1]	$2.59	[1]	($0.94)	[1]	$2.04	[1]	($1.12)	[1]	($1.58)	[1]
Real Estate Investment [Member]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount																			61
Impairment Of Investments																			75
Certain Employee Benefit Liabilities [Member]
Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount																			$54
[1]	         Quarterly earnings per share amounts may not add to the full year amounts due to the averaging of shares.

Summary_of_Investments_Other_T1

Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	$383,072	[1]
Balance Sheet Amount	419,986
Commercial Mortgage and Other Loans	45,348
Uncollateralized Loans	1,084
Equity Securities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	6,921	[1]
Securities Fair Value	9,861
Balance Sheet Amount	9,861
Bonds [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Balance Sheet Amount	105
Common Stock [Member] | Public Utility, Equities [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	151	[1]
Securities Fair Value	194
Balance Sheet Amount	194
Common Stock [Member] | Banks, Trust and Insurance, Equities [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	1,232	[1]
Securities Fair Value	1,971
Balance Sheet Amount	1,971
Common Stock [Member] | Industrial, Miscellaneous, and All Others [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	5,512	[1]
Securities Fair Value	7,668
Balance Sheet Amount	7,668
Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	26	[1]
Securities Fair Value	28
Balance Sheet Amount	28
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	265,116	[1]
Securities Fair Value	299,090
Balance Sheet Amount	299,090
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury And Government [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	15,807	[1]
Securities Fair Value	20,123
Balance Sheet Amount	20,123
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Obligations of U.S. states and their political subdivisions [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	5,720	[1]
Securities Fair Value	6,531
Balance Sheet Amount	6,531
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	69,894	[1]
Securities Fair Value	80,941
Balance Sheet Amount	80,941
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	10,966	[1]
Securities Fair Value	11,185
Balance Sheet Amount	11,185
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	5,612	[1]
Securities Fair Value	6,057
Balance Sheet Amount	6,057
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	13,486	[1]
Securities Fair Value	13,877
Balance Sheet Amount	13,877
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Public Utility, Bonds [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	19,754	[1]
Securities Fair Value	22,403
Balance Sheet Amount	22,403
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Convertibles and Bonds with Warrants Attached [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	0	[1]
Securities Fair Value	0
Balance Sheet Amount	0
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | All Other Corporate Bonds [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	123,361	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	106	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Bonds [Member] | All Other Corporate Bonds [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Fair Value	137,410
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Bonds [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Fair Value	105
Balance Sheet Amount	137,410
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	410	[1]
Securities Fair Value	458
Balance Sheet Amount	458
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	2,575	[1]
Securities Fair Value	2,902
Balance Sheet Amount	2,575
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	821	[1]
Securities Fair Value	1,005
Balance Sheet Amount	821
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	0	[1]
Securities Fair Value	0
Balance Sheet Amount	0
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	963	[1]
Securities Fair Value	1,032
Balance Sheet Amount	963
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	78	[1]
Securities Fair Value	85
Balance Sheet Amount	78
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | All Other Corporate Bonds [Member] | Fixed Maturities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	713	[1]
Securities Fair Value	780
Balance Sheet Amount	713
Trading Account Assets Supporting Insurance Liabilities [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	20,263	[1],[2],[3]
Balance Sheet Amount	20,263	[2],[3]
Other Trading [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	10,874	[1],[2]
Balance Sheet Amount	10,874	[2]
Commercial Mortgage Loans [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	46,432	[1],[4]
Balance Sheet Amount	46,432	[4]
Policy Loans [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	11,712	[1]
Balance Sheet Amount	11,712
Short-term Investments [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	8,258	[1],[5]
Balance Sheet Amount	8,258	[5]
Other Long-term Investments [Member]
Investment Details [Line Items]
Securities Original Cost	10,921	[1]
Balance Sheet Amount	$10,921
[1]	Original cost of equities reduced by impairment and, as to fixed maturities, original cost reduced by repayments and impairments and adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts.
[2]	At fair value.
[3]	See Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the composition of the Company’s “Trading account assets supporting insurance liabilities, at fair value.”
[4]	At carrying value, net of allowance for losses. Includes commercial mortgage and other collateralized loans of $45,348 million and uncollateralized loans of $1,084 million.
[5]	“Short-term investments” include securities purchased under agreements to resell.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Condensed Statements of Financial Position) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS
Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value		$299,090	[1]	$286,866	[1]
Fixed maturities, held to maturity		2,575	[1],[2]	3,312	[1]
Total investments		419,986		398,173
Cash and cash equivalents		14,918	[1]	11,439	[1]	18,100	14,251
Other Assets		13,379	[1]	13,833	[1]
Assets		766,655		731,781
LIABILITIES
Short-term debt		3,839	[3]	2,669	[3]
Long-term debt		19,831	[4]	23,553	[4]
Income taxes payable		9,881		5,422
Other liabilities		13,037	[1]	13,925	[1]
Liabilities		724,306		695,900
EQUITY
Preferred Stock ($.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued)		0		0
Common Stock		6		6
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		-651		0
Additional paid-in capital		24,565		24,475
Common Stock held in treasury, at cost (205,277,862 and 199,056,067 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		-13,088		-12,415
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		16,050		8,681
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit	483.8	14,888		14,531
Total equity		41,770		35,278
Liabilities And Stockholders Equity		766,655		731,781
Common Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock		6		6
Common Class B Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock		0		0
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
EQUITY
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	-650.8	-650.8
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit	483.8
Parent Company [Member]
ASSETS
Investment Contracts From Subsidiary		1		1
Other Investments		2,395		1,197
Total investments		2,396		1,198
Cash and cash equivalents		8,692		4,370		7,400	3,846
Due from subsidiaries		875		1,477
Loans receivable from subsidiaries		8,475		8,750
Investment in subsidiaries		50,218		40,662
Other Assets		365		889
Assets		71,021		57,346
LIABILITIES
Due to subsidiaries		7,414		1,734
Loans payable to subsidiaries		2,033		1,799
Short-term debt		2,319		1,721
Long-term debt		16,061		16,346
Income taxes payable		271		0
Other liabilities		1,153		468
Liabilities		29,251		22,068
EQUITY
Preferred Stock ($.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued)		0		0
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		-651		0
Additional paid-in capital		24,565		24,475
Common Stock held in treasury, at cost (205,277,862 and 199,056,067 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		-13,088		-12,415
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		16,050		8,681
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit		14,888		14,531
Total equity		41,770		35,278
Liabilities And Stockholders Equity		71,021		57,346
Parent Company [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock		6		6
Parent Company [Member] | Common Class B Stock [Member]
EQUITY
Common Stock		0		0
Parent Company [Member] | Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
EQUITY
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)		($651)
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.
[2]	         Excludes notes with amortized cost of $3,588 million (fair value, $3,953 million) which have been offset with the associated payables under a netting agreement.
[3]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[4]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I1

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Condensed Statements of Financial Position) (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jan. 02, 2015
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, available for sale, amortized cost	$265,116	$268,727
Preferred Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Common Stock [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	1,500,000,000	1,500,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	660,111,339	660,111,319
Common Stock held in treasury, shares	205,277,862	199,056,067
Common Class B Stock [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common Stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common Stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common Stock, shares outstanding		2,000,000	2,000,000	2,000,000
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common Stock held in treasury, shares	2,000,000	0			2,000,000
Parent Company [Member] | Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common Stock held in treasury, shares	2,000,000	0			2

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I2

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Condensed Statements of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
REVENUES
Net investment income									$15,256	$14,729	$13,661
Total realized investment gains (losses), net									1,636	-5,206	-1,441
Other income									-1,978	-3,199	-269
Total revenues	15,725	12,380	13,146	12,854	9,939	11,310	10,041	10,171	54,105	41,461	84,847
IncomeTaxExpense(Benefit)
Current									376	34	1,088
Deferred									-27	-1,092	-875
Tax expense (benefit)									349	-1,058	213
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS	-1,451	523	1,109	1,245	-424	1,032	-489	-686	1,426	-567	555
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes	4	0	4	4	-4	8	2	1	12	7	15
Net Income Loss	-1,459	512	1,090	1,238	-460	1,027	-514	-720	1,381	-667	520
Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent									8,750	-2,200	5,489
Parent Company [Member]
REVENUES
Net investment income									7	6	33
Total realized investment gains (losses), net									-793	390	-33
Affiliated interest revenue									417	416	404
Other income									146	153	-19
Total revenues									-223	965	385
EXPENSES
General and administrative expenses									59	50	67
Interest Expense									1,075	1,091	1,066
Total expenses									1,134	1,141	1,133
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Equity In Earnings Of Subsidiaries									-1,357	-176	-748
IncomeTaxExpense(Benefit)
Tax expense (benefit)									-492	-80	-266
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Equity In Earnings Of Subsidiaries									-865	-96	-482
Equity In Earnings Of Subsidiaries									2,246	-571	1,002
INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS									1,381	-667	520
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes									0	0	0
Net Income Loss									1,381	-667	520
Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent									$8,750	($2,200)	$5,489

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I3

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Condensed Statements of Cash Flow) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Profit Loss	$1,438		($560)		$570
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities:
Realized investment (gains) losses, net	-1,636		5,206		1,441
Change in:
Other, net	6,421		-2,666		170
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	19,396		8,445		20,909
Proceeds from the sale/maturity of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	49,529		60,719		38,678
Equity securities, available for sale	5,001		4,227		4,202
Investment contract from subsidiaries	655		1,873		1,474
Short-term investments	73,823		60,002		28,123
Payments for the purchase of:
Equity securities, available for sale	-4,476		-4,301		-4,001
Fixed maturities, available for sale	-57,467		-67,774		-52,212
Other long-term investments	-2,445		-2,850		-1,736
Short-term investments	-74,295		-61,034		-28,323
Other, net	231		-532		143
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	-17,088		-16,334		-15,420
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-1,027		-847		-768
Common Stock Acquired	-1,000		-738		-650
Common Stock reissued for exercise of stock options	269		348		150
Proceeds from the issuance of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	7,955		4,660		6,064
Repayments of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	-7,384		-3,939		-3,391
Net change in financing arrangements (maturities of 90 days or less)	-27		96		-583
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements	26		32		51
Other, net	133		-331		160
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	1,629		2,242		-1,305
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	3,479		-6,661		3,849
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR	11,439	[1]	18,100		14,251
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR	14,918	[1]	11,439	[1]	18,100
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid during the period for interest	1,883		1,387		1,349
Cash paid (refunds received) during the period for taxes	109		1,279		501
Common Stock [Member]
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-1,008		-828		-749
Common Class B Stock [Member]
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-19		-19		-19
Parent Company [Member]
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Profit Loss	1,381		-667		520
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities:
Equity In Earnings Of Subsidiaries	-2,246		571		-1,002
Realized investment (gains) losses, net	793		-390		33
Dividends received from subsidiaries	2,218		2,483		2,435
Change in:
Due to/from subsidiaries, net	5,718		-1,753		1,920
Other, net	647		-418		9
Cash flows from (used in) operating activities	8,511		-174		3,915
Proceeds from the sale/maturity of:
Fixed maturities, available for sale	0		0		191
Equity securities, available for sale	0		0		0
Commercial Loans	0		0		312
Investment contract from subsidiaries	0		0		525
Short-term investments	10,207		6,522		2,485
Payments for the purchase of:
Equity securities, available for sale	0		0		0
Commercial Loans	0		0		-68
Other long-term investments	0		-1		0
Short-term investments	-11,394		-6,544		-2,550
Capital contributions to affiliates	-3,065		-1,760		-1,912
Returns of capital contributions from subsidiaries	258		524		427
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries	0		0		0
Loans to subsidiaries, net of maturities	925		-22		825
Other, net	21		32		24
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities	-3,048		-1,249		259
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-1,027		-847		-768
Common Stock Acquired	-999		-738		-650
Common Stock reissued for exercise of stock options	269		348		150
Proceeds from the issuance of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	2,063		2,414		3,180
Repayments of debt (maturities longer than 90 days)	-1,659		-3,257		-2,737
Repayments of loans from subsidiaries	-241		-102		-20
Proceeds from loans payable to subsidiaries	558		545		400
Net change in financing arrangements (maturities of 90 days or less)	-94		65		-143
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements	7		10		12
Other, net	-18		-45		-44
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities	-1,141		-1,607		-620
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	4,322		-3,030		3,554
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR	4,370		7,400		3,846
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR	8,692		4,370		7,400
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid during the period for interest	1,036		1,070		1,040
Cash paid (refunds received) during the period for taxes	-1,231		246		-256
NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS DURING THE PERIOD
Non-cash capital transactions	100		1,097		0
Capital contribution to subsidiary in the form of repayment of loans from subsidiary	650		942		0
Treasury stock shares issued for stock-based compensation programs	100		105		211
Parent Company [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	-1,008		-828		-749
Parent Company [Member] | Common Class B Stock [Member]
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash dividends paid on Common Stock	($19)		($19)		($19)
[1]	(1) See Note 5 for details of balances associated with variable interest entities.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I4

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Debt and Undistributed Demutualization Consideration) (Short and Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	$3,839	[1]	$2,669	[1]
Long-term debt	19,831	[2]	23,553	[2]
Commercial Paper [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	483		650
Long Term Debt Current Portion [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	3,356	[3]	2,019	[3]
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	2,319		1,721
Long-term debt	16,061		16,346
Parent Company [Member] | Commercial Paper [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	97	[4]	190	[4]
Parent Company [Member] | Long Term Debt Current Portion [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term debt	2,222		1,531
Parent Company [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2015
Maximum Maturity Date	2044
Minimum Interest Rate	2.30%	[5]
Maximum Interest Rate	7.38%	[5]
Long-term debt	10,667		10,907
Parent Company [Member] | Floating Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2015
Maximum Maturity Date	2020
Minimum Interest Rate	1.00%	[5]
Maximum Interest Rate	4.88%	[5]
Long-term debt	510		555
Parent Company [Member] | Junior Subordinated Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Maturity Date	2042
Maximum Maturity Date	2068
Minimum Interest Rate	5.20%	[5]
Maximum Interest Rate	8.88%	[5]
Long-term debt	$4,884		$4,884
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $2,319 million and $1,721 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[2]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[3]	Includes collateralized borrowings from the FHLBNY of $280 million at December 31, 2014 and limited and non-recourse borrowings of Prudential Holdings, LLC attributable to the Closed Block Business of $75 million at December 31, 2013. This debt was redeemed in December 2014.
[4]	The weighted average interest rate on outstanding commercial paper was 0.28% and 0.32% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
[5]	Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I5

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Debt and Undistributed Demutualization Consideration) (Parenthetical) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.12%	[1]	0.17%	[1]
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.28%		0.32%
Parent Company [Member] | Floating Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum Interest Rate	1.00%	[2]
Maximum Interest Rate	4.88%	[2]
[1]	Excludes the current portion of long-term debt.
[2]	Range of interest rates are for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I6

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Debt) (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
weighted average interest rate on commercial paper	0.12%	[1]	0.17%	[1]
Committed lines of credit	$3,750,000,000
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
weighted average interest rate on commercial paper	0.28%		0.32%
Committed lines of credit	2,000,000,000	[2]
Line Of Credit Facility Term	5 years	[2]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Increase Decrease In Interest Expense	2,000,000		2,000,000		-4,000,000
Parent Company Prudential Funding Combined [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Committed lines of credit	1,750,000,000	[2]
Line Of Credit Facility Term	3 years	[2]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
Parent Company Prudential Funding Combined [Member] | Line of Credit and Other Credit Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	0
minimum level of net worth	$18,990,000,000
[1]	Excludes the current portion of long-term debt.
[2]	In November 2013, amendments to these facilities extended their terms by approximately 2 years. The expiration dates above reflect that extension.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I7

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Debt and Undistributed Demutualization Consideration) (Contractual Maturities for Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2 years	$1,352
3 years	1,581
4 years	1,431
5 years	1,631
After 5 years	13,836
Long-term debt	19,831	[1]	23,553	[1]
Parent Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2 years	751
3 years	971
4 years	831
5 years	1,100
After 5 years	12,408
Long-term debt	$16,061		$16,346
[1]	Includes Prudential Financial debt of $16,061 million and $16,346 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I8

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Dividends and Returns of Capital) (Dividends and/or Returns of Capital from Holding Companies) (Details) (Parent Company [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	$2,476	$3,007	$2,862
Prudential Holdings L L C [Member]
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	400	0	600
Prudential Annuities Life Assurance Corporation [Member]
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	342	284	408
International Insurance And Investments Holding Companies [Member]
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	526	1,642	865
Prudential Asset Management Holding Company [Member]
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	588	441	646
Other Holding Companies [Member]
Dividends or Returns of Capital received by Parent Company from Subsidiaries	$620	$640	$343

Schedule_Condensed_Financial_I9

Schedule - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Guarantees)/(Redemption of Class B Shares) (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 02, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
PercentageOfClassBStockRepurchased		100.00%
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	$651		$0
Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	650.8	650.8
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	2
Guarantee Type, Other [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	331		404
Parent Company [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	651		0
Parent Company [Member] | Class B Stock Held in Treasury [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Class B Stock held in treasury, at cost (2,000,000 and 0 shares at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively)	651
Parent Company [Member] | Prudential Financial Subsidiaries [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Credit Lines Issued Remaining Available Amount	200
Parent Company [Member] | Investee Debt [Member] | Prudential Financial Subsidiaries [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	4,600
Parent Company [Member] | Commitments to Extend Credit [Member] | Prudential Financial Subsidiaries [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	200
Parent Company [Member] | Guarantee Type, Other [Member]
Commitments Gurantees And Contingent Liabilities [Line Items]
Guarantee obligation - maximum exposure	$5

Schedule_Supplementary_Insuran

Schedule - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	$15,971	$16,512	$14,100
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	215,174	204,223	213,258
Unearned Premiums	2,592	2,636	2,792
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	143,811	142,172	141,920
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	35,472	31,652	69,843
Net Investment Income	15,256	14,729	13,661
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	38,566	31,894	71,541
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	1,973	240	1,504
Other Operating Expenses	11,807	11,011	11,094
Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	15,561	16,101	13,688
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	165,311	153,965	162,419
Unearned Premiums	2,592	2,636	2,792
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	130,958	131,395	129,244
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	32,768	28,924	67,026
Net Investment Income	12,249	11,713	10,508
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	32,469	26,514	65,938
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	1,936	203	1,466
Other Operating Expenses	10,776	10,454	10,542
Closed Block [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	410	411	412
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	49,863	50,258	50,839
Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	12,853	10,777	12,676
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	2,704	2,728	2,817
Net Investment Income	3,007	3,016	3,153
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	6,097	5,380	5,603
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	37	37	38
Other Operating Expenses	1,031	557	552
U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	5,493	5,715	4,036
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	59,457	47,582	52,657
Unearned Premiums	1,848	1,939	2,142
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	56,158	55,510	56,282
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	9,798	3,648	34,744
Net Investment Income	4,973	4,856	4,079
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	10,935	3,264	36,125
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	656	-916	-324
Other Operating Expenses	4,787	4,471	4,262
U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	4,233	4,295	3,297
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	14,149	12,328	10,064
Unearned Premiums	201	193	187
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	29,805	28,925	18,663
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	7,699	7,473	6,884
Net Investment Income	2,220	1,984	1,619
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	7,508	6,773	6,326
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	376	105	424
Other Operating Expenses	2,608	2,183	1,819
International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	6,156	6,407	6,589
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	87,744	90,641	96,412
Unearned Premiums	543	504	462
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	44,977	46,948	54,289
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	14,961	17,482	25,015
Net Investment Income	4,434	4,291	4,245
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	13,432	16,057	22,431
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	962	998	1,167
Other Operating Expenses	2,608	2,782	3,474
Corporate and Other [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	-321	-316	-234
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	3,961	3,414	3,286
Unearned Premiums	0	0	1
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	18	12	10
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	310	321	383
Net Investment Income	622	582	565
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	594	420	1,056
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	-58	16	199
Other Operating Expenses	773	1,018	987
Individual Annuities [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	5,376	5,490	3,829
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	10,220	2,341	5,360
Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	8,693	9,035	10,608
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	2,785	2,541	2,140
Net Investment Income	615	685	770
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	1,017	-30	776
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	603	-956	-397
Other Operating Expenses	1,791	1,661	1,581
Retirement [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	117	225	207
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	49,237	45,241	47,297
Unearned Premiums	1,848	1,939	2,142
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	47,465	46,475	45,674
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	7,013	1,107	32,604
Net Investment Income	4,238	4,084	3,203
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	9,918	3,294	35,349
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	33	15	49
Other Operating Expenses	1,020	984	896
Asset Management [Member] | U S Retirement Solutions And Investment Management Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	0	0	0
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	0	0	0
Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	0	0	0
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	0	0	0
Net Investment Income	120	87	106
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	0	0	0
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	20	25	24
Other Operating Expenses	1,976	1,826	1,785
Individual Life [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	4,056	4,112	3,115
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	9,224	7,407	5,144
Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	21,463	20,746	10,590
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	3,073	2,660	1,976
Net Investment Income	1,610	1,403	1,033
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	3,040	2,238	1,570
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	368	95	419
Other Operating Expenses	1,745	1,363	995
Group Insurance [Member] | U S Individual Life And Group Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	177	183	182
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	4,925	4,921	4,920
Unearned Premiums	201	193	187
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	8,342	8,179	8,073
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	4,626	4,813	4,908
Net Investment Income	610	581	586
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	4,468	4,535	4,756
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	8	10	5
Other Operating Expenses	863	820	824
International Insurance [Member] | International Insurance Division [Member] | Financial Services Business [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	6,156	6,407	6,589
Future Policy Benefits, Losses, Claims, Expenses	87,744	90,641	96,412
Unearned Premiums	543	504	462
Other Policy Claims and Benefits Payable	44,977	46,948	54,289
Premiums, Policy Charges and Fee Income	14,961	17,482	25,015
Net Investment Income	4,434	4,291	4,245
Benefits, Claims, Losses and Settlement Expenses	13,432	16,057	22,431
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	962	998	1,167
Other Operating Expenses	$2,608	$2,782	$3,474

Schedule_Reinsurance_Premiums_

Schedule - Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Premiums-Gross Amount	$29,666	$27,444	$66,566
Premiums-Ceded to other companies	1,507	1,479	1,436
Premiums-Assumed from other companies	1,134	272	224
Premiums-Net amount	29,293	26,237	65,354
Premiums-% to net	3.90%	1.00%	0.30%
Face amount in force-Gross Amount	3,492,396	3,534,834	3,645,504
Face amount in force-Ceded to other companies	633,501	521,189	456,329
Face amount in force-Assumed from other companies	245,674	185,479	22,050
Face amount in force-Net amount	3,104,569	3,199,124	3,211,225
Face amount in force-% to net	7.90%	5.80%	0.70%
Life Insurance Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Premiums-Gross Amount	26,638	24,068	62,603
Premiums-Ceded to other companies	1,451	1,408	1,374
Premiums-Assumed from other companies	1,134	272	223
Premiums-Net amount	26,321	22,932	61,452
Premiums-% to net	4.30%	1.20%	0.40%
Accident and Health Insurance [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Premiums-Gross Amount	3,028	3,376	3,963
Premiums-Ceded to other companies	56	71	62
Premiums-Assumed from other companies	0	0	1
Premiums-Net amount	$2,972	$3,305	$3,902
Premiums-% to net	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%

Schedule_Valuation_and_Qualify

Schedule - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Allowance, Beginning of Year	$451	$549	$759
Additions Charged To Costs and Expenses	44	-42	-108
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	-1	-3
Deductions	96	48	96
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates	-3	-7	-3
Allowance, End of Year	396	451	549
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Allowance, Beginning of Year	216	269	367
Additions Charged To Costs and Expenses	0	0	0
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Deductions	96	48	96
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates	-1	-5	-2
Allowance, End of Year	119	216	269
Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Allowance, Beginning of Year	235	280	392
Additions Charged To Costs and Expenses	44	-42	-108
Additions Charged to Other Accounts	0	-1	-3
Deductions	0	0	0
Effect of Foreign Exchange Rates	-2	-2	-1
Allowance, End of Year	$277	$235	$280