| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 15, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 15, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | GWG Holdings, Inc. |
| Entity File Number | 001-36615 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 26-2222607 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 325 North St. Paul Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2650 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Dallas |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75201 |
| City Area Code | 612 |
| Local Phone Number | 746-1944 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | GWGHQ |
| Security Exchange Name | NONE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001522690 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
