| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 10, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | J C PENNEY CO INC |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 10, 2020 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001166126 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-15274 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 26-0037077 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6501 Legacy Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Plano |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75024-3698 |
| City Area Code | (972) |
| Local Phone Number | 431-1000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
