Fidelity & Guaranty Life 10-K 16 Nov 17 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Nov. 13, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	FGL
Entity Registrant Name	Fidelity & Guaranty Life
Entity Central Index Key	1,585,064
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		58,999,028
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filer	No
Entity Public Float			$ 312

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Investments:
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost: September 30, 2017 - $20,063; September 30, 2016 - $18,521)	$ 21,154	$ 19,411
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost: September 30, 2017 - $733; September 30, 2016 - $640)	773	683
Derivative investments	413	276
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	547	595
Other invested assets	185	60
Total investments	23,072	21,025
Related party loans	71	71
Cash and cash equivalents	885	864
Accrued investment income	231	214
Reinsurance recoverable	3,375	3,464
Intangibles, net	1,129	1,026
Deferred tax assets, net	0	0
Other assets	202	371
Total assets	28,965	27,035
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Contractholder funds	20,792	19,251
Future policy benefits	3,412	3,467
Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	1,083	1,172
Liability for policy and contract claims	67	55
Debt	300	300
Revolving credit facility	105	100
Deferred tax liability, net	62	10
Other liabilities	897	746
Total liabilities	26,718	25,101
Commitments and contingencies (Note 12)
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock ($.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued at September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016)	0	0
Common stock ($.01 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 58,933,415 issued and outstanding at September 30, 2017; 58,956,127 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2016)	1	1
Additional paid-in capital	716	714
Retained earnings	1,000	792
Accumulated other comprehensive income	543	439
Treasury stock, at cost (568,847 shares at September 30, 2017; 537,613 shares at September 30, 2016)	(13)	(12)
Total shareholders' equity	2,247	1,934
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	28,965	27,035
Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member]
Investments:
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	$ 547	$ 595

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost)	$ 20,063	$ 18,521
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost)	$ 733	$ 640
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred Stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	58,933,415	58,956,127
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	58,933,415	58,956,127
Treasury Stock, shares (in shares)	568,847	537,613

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Revenues:
Premiums	$ 42	$ 70	$ 58
Net investment income	1,005	923	851
Net investment gains (losses)	316	19	(37)
Insurance and investment product fees and other	167	127	89
Total revenues	1,530	1,139	961
Benefits and expenses:
Benefits and other changes in policy reserves	843	791	578
Acquisition and operating expenses, net of deferrals	137	119	113
Amortization of intangibles	193	54	64
Total benefits and expenses	1,173	964	755
Operating income	357	175	206
Interest expense	(24)	(22)	(24)
Income before income taxes	333	153	182
Income tax expense	(110)	(56)	(64)
Net income	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Net income per common share - adjusted to reflect stock split:
Basic (in USD per share)	$ 3.83	$ 1.67	$ 2.03
Diluted (in USD per share)	$ 3.83	$ 1.66	$ 2.02
Weighted average common shares used in computing net income per common share:
Basic (in shares)	58,319,517	58,275,013	58,117,884
Diluted (in shares)	58,415,187	58,578,163	58,360,841
Cash dividend per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.260	$ 0.260	$ 0.260
Total other-than-temporary impairments	$ (22)	$ (45)	$ (82)
Portion of other-than-temporary impairments included in other comprehensive income	0	(1)	0
Net other-than-temporary impairments	(22)	(44)	(82)
Gains (losses) on derivatives and embedded derivatives	335	33	(8)
Other investment gains	3	30	53
Net investment gains (losses)	$ 316	$ 19	$ (37)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Unrealized investment gains (losses):
Change in unrealized investment gains (losses) before reclassification adjustment	182	788	(650)
Net reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in net income	18	9	29
Changes in unrealized investment gains (losses) after reclassification adjustment	200	797	(621)
Adjustments to intangible assets	(40)	(258)	220
Changes in deferred income tax asset/liability	(56)	(187)	140
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	104	352	(261)
Non-credit related other-than-temporary impairment:
Changes in non-credit related other-than-temporary impairment	0	(1)	0
Net non-credit related other than-temporary impairment	0	(1)	0
Net changes to derive comprehensive income (loss) for the period	104	351	(261)
Comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	$ 327	$ 448	$ (143)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Preferred Stock	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Treasury Stock
Beginning Balance at Sep. 30, 2014	$ 1,659	$ 0	$ 1	$ 702	$ 607	$ 349	$ 0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased	(11)						(11)
Dividends	(15)				(15)
Net income	118				118
Common stock issued under employee plans	(261)					(261)
Common stock issued under employee plans	2			2
Stock-based compensation	10			10
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2015	1,502	0	1	714	710	88	(11)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased	(1)						(1)
Dividends	(15)				(15)
Net income	97				97
Common stock issued under employee plans	351					351
Common stock issued under employee plans	2			2
Stock-based compensation	(2)			(2)
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2016	1,934	0	1	714	792	439	(12)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased	(1)						(1)
Dividends	(15)				(15)
Net income	223				223
Common stock issued under employee plans	104					104
Stock-based compensation	2			2
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2017	$ 2,247	$ 0	$ 1	$ 716	$ 1,000	$ 543	$ (13)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock based compensation	6	8	7
Amortization	(42)	(40)	(60)
Deferred income taxes	(4)	51	50
Interest credited/index credits to contractholder account balances	701	632	420
Net recognized (gains) losses on investments and derivatives	(305)	(19)	37
Charges assessed to contractholders for mortality and administration	(131)	(103)	(68)
Deferred policy acquisition costs, net of related amortization	(144)	(296)	(253)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Reinsurance recoverable	(18)	(2)	46
Future policy benefits	(55)	(1)	(36)
Funds withheld from reinsurers	(105)	(89)	(62)
Collateral posted (returned)	158	111	(128)
Other assets and other liabilities	(47)	16	(36)
Net cash provided by operating activities	237	365	35
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from commercial mortgage loans	48	35	139
Costs of commercial mortgage loans	0	(99)	(535)
Related party loans	0	1	35
Capital expenditures	(4)	(8)	(7)
Net cash (used in) investing activities	(1,217)	(1,186)	(1,024)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Treasury stock	(1)	(1)	(11)
Common stock issued under employee plans	0	2	2
Draw on revolving credit facility	5	100	0
Dividends paid	(15)	(15)	(15)
Contractholder account deposits	2,890	2,780	2,503
Contractholder account withdrawals	(1,878)	(1,683)	(1,564)
Net cash provided by financing activities	1,001	1,183	915
Change in cash & cash equivalents	21	362	(74)
Cash & cash equivalents, beginning of period	864	502	576
Cash & cash equivalents, end of period	885	864	502
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Interest paid	23	19	19
Income taxes paid	114	7	38
Deferred sales inducements	20	27	26
Available-for-sale Securities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid:	2,755	2,264	4,947
Cost of available-for-sale investments:	(4,123)	(3,359)	(5,746)
Derivative and other
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid:	458	246	439
Cost of available-for-sale investments:	$ (351)	$ (266)	$ (296)

Basis of Presentation and Natur

Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business	Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business Fidelity & Guaranty Life (“FGL” and, collectively with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is a subsidiary of HRG Group Inc. (formerly, Harbinger Group Inc. (“HRG”)). HRG is a diversified holding company focused on obtaining controlling equity stakes in companies that operate across a diversified set of industries. FGL and HRG’s shares of common stock trade on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbols “FGL” and “HRG,” respectively. In January of 2014, HRG transferred HRG’s ownership interest in FGL common shares to FS Holdco II, Ltd. (“FS Holdco”) which is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of HRG. HRG indirectly holds 47,000 thousand shares of FGL's outstanding common stock, representing an approximate 80% interest at September 30, 2017 . Dollar amounts in the accompanying sections are presented in millions, unless otherwise noted. On May 24, 2017, FGL entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), by and among CF Corporation, a Cayman Islands exempted company (“CF Corp”), FGL US Holdings Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of CF Corp (“Parent”), FGL Merger Sub Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of Parent (“Merger Sub”) and FGL. Subject to the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement, at the time of the closing of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and into FGL (the “Merger”), with FGL continuing as the surviving entity, which will become a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of CF Corp. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the Merger, each issued and outstanding share of FGL’s common stock (“Common Stock”) will be cancelled and converted automatically into the right to receive $31.10 in cash, without interest and less any required withholding taxes (the “Merger Consideration”), other than any shares of Common Stock owned by FGL or by any subsidiary of FGL as treasury stock or by CF Corp, Parent, Merger Sub or any other subsidiary of CF Corp (which will be canceled and retired and cease to exist and no payment or distribution will be made thereto), shares of Common Stock granted pursuant to FGL’s employment equity award plan and those shares of Common Stock with respect to which appraisal rights under Delaware law are properly exercised and not withdrawn. The Merger Agreement permits FGL to pay out a regular quarterly cash dividend on its Common Stock prior to the closing of the transaction in an amount not in excess of $0.065 per share, per quarter. At the effective time of the Merger, each FGL option to purchase shares of Common Stock, restricted share of Common Stock and performance-based restricted stock unit relating to shares of Common Stock, in each case whether vested or unvested, will become fully vested and automatically converted into the right to receive a cash payment in an amount pursuant to the Merger Agreement. In addition, at the effective time of the Merger, each stock option and restricted stock unit relating to shares of Fidelity & Guaranty Life Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of FGL (“FGLH”), in each case whether vested or unvested, will become fully vested and automatically converted into the right to receive a cash payment in an amount pursuant to the Merger Agreement, and each dividend equivalent right held in respect of a share of FGLH stock (a “DER”), whether vested or unvested, will become fully vested and automatically converted into the right to receive a cash payment equal to the amount accrued with respect to such DER. Following execution of the Merger Agreement, FS Holdco executed and delivered to FGL a written consent (the “Consent”), approving and adopting the Merger Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the Merger. As a result of the execution and delivery of the Consent, the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of FGL’s common stock have adopted and approved the Merger Agreement. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the consummation of the Merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain closing conditions, the following of which have been met: (i) on June 16, 2017, the Federal Trade Commission granted early termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; (ii) on August 8, 2017, CF Corp held an extraordinary general meeting in lieu of an annual general meeting of shareholders, at which CF Corp’s shareholders approved, among other items, all of the proposals relating to the Merger Agreement and the Merger; (iii) on August 14, 2017, FGL filed with the SEC and mailed to its stockholders a definitive information statement in connection with the Merger; (iv) on August 24, 2017, the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation granted its required regulatory approval relating to the Merger; and (v) on November 8, 2017, the New York Department of Financial Services granted its required regulatory approval relating to the Merger. On November 7, 2017, the Iowa Insurance Division held a public hearing to consider whether the proposed acquisition of control of Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company complies with the standards set forth under applicable Iowa insurance laws. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, the consummation of the Merger is subject to satisfaction or waiver of certain additional closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals from the Iowa Insurance Division and the absence of any law or order enacted, issued or enforced that is in effect and that prevents or prohibits the consummation of the Merger. The Company and CF Corp are committed to securing the remaining regulatory approvals and seek to close the Merger as expeditiously as possible, however, the closing of the Merger and the timing thereof is subject to the regulatory review and approval process, none of which can be assured. In the event the Merger Agreement is terminated, FGL may be required to pay a termination fee to CF Corp in an aggregate amount of $50 . As previously disclosed, on April 17, 2017, FGL terminated its Agreement and Plan of Merger (as amended, the “Anbang Merger Agreement”) with Anbang Insurance Group Co., Ltd. and its affiliates. As a result of the termination, FGL has no remaining obligations under the Anbang Merger Agreement. FGL’s primary business is the sale of individual life insurance products and annuities through independent agents, managing general agents, and specialty brokerage firms and in selected institutional markets. FGL’s principal products are deferred annuities (including fixed indexed annuity (“FIA”) contracts), immediate annuities and life insurance products. FGL markets products through its wholly-owned insurance subsidiaries, Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company (“FGL Insurance”) and Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company of New York (“FGL NY Insurance”), which together are licensed in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. Our reporting segments reflect the manner by which our chief operating decision makers view and manage the business. We currently distribute and service primarily fixed rate annuities, including FIAs. Therefore, we have only one reporting segment. Premiums and annuity deposits (net of coinsurance), which are not included as revenues (except for traditional premiums) in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations, collected during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , by product type were as follows: Year ended September 30, Product Type 2017 2016 2015 Fixed indexed annuities $ 1,892 $ 1,861 $ 2,185 Fixed rate annuities 556 539 211 Single premium immediate annuities 15 28 16 Life insurance (a) 176 181 163 Total $ 2,639 $ 2,609 $ 2,575 (a) Life insurance includes Universal Life (“UL”) and traditional life insurance products. The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies and Practices	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies and Practices	Significant Accounting Policies and Practices Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all other entities in which FGL has a controlling financial interest and any variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which we are the primary beneficiary. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. We are involved in certain entities that are considered VIEs as defined under GAAP. Our involvement with VIEs is primarily to invest in assets that allow us to gain exposure to a broadly diversified portfolio of asset classes. A VIE is an entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its own activities without additional financial support or where investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. We assess our relationships to determine if we have the ability to direct the activities, or otherwise exert control to evaluate if we are the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If we determine we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consolidate the assets and liabilities of the VIE in our Consolidated Financial Statements . The Company has not determined that we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE as of September 30, 2017. See "Note 4. Investments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s investments in unconsolidated VIEs. Revenue Recognition Insurance Premiums The Company’s insurance premiums for traditional life insurance products are recognized as revenue when due from the contractholder. The Company’s traditional life insurance products include those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits and consist primarily of term life insurance and certain annuities with life contingencies. Premium collections for fixed indexed and fixed rate annuities, indexed universal life (“IUL”) policies and immediate annuities without life contingency are reported as deposit liabilities (i.e., contractholder funds) instead of as revenues. Similarly, cash payments to policyholders are reported as decreases in the liability for contractholder funds and not as expenses. Sources of revenues for products accounted for as deposit liabilities are net investment income, surrender and other charges deducted from contractholder funds, and net realized gains (losses) on investments. Net Investment Income Dividends and interest income, recorded in “Net investment income”, are recognized when earned. Income or losses upon call or prepayment of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities is recognized in net investment income. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on investments in fixed maturity securities are reflected in “Net investment income” over the contractual terms of the investments in a manner that produces a constant effective yield. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, included in the fixed maturity available-for-sale (“AFS”) securities portfolios, the Company recognizes income using a constant effective yield based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When actual prepayments differ significantly from originally anticipated prepayments, the effective yield is recalculated prospectively to reflect actual payments to date plus anticipated future payments. Any adjustments resulting from changes in effective yield are reflected in “Net investment income’’. Net Investment Gains (Losses) Net investment gains (losses) include realized gains and losses from the sale of investments, write-downs for other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) of AFS investments, other invested assets, commercial mortgage loans and related party loans, and gains and losses on derivatives. Realized gains and losses on the sale of investments are determined using the specific identification method. Product Fees Product fee revenue from IUL products and deferred annuities is comprised of policy and contract fees charged for the cost of insurance, and policy administration and rider fees. Fees are assessed on a monthly basis and recognized as revenue when assessed and earned. Product fee revenue also includes surrender charges which are collected and recognized as revenue when the policy is surrendered. Benefits and Other Changes in Policy Reserves Benefit expenses for deferred annuity, FIA and IUL policies include index credits and interest credited to contractholder account balances and benefit claims incurred during the period in excess of contract account balances, net of reinsurance recoveries. Interest crediting rates associated with funds invested in the general account of our insurance subsidiaries during 2015 through 2017 ranged from 0.0% to 6.0% for deferred annuities and FIA's, combined, and 3.0% to 4.5% for IUL's. Other changes in policy reserves include the change in the fair value of the FIA embedded derivative and the change in the reserve for secondary guarantee benefit payments. Other changes in policy reserves also include the change in reserves for life insurance products. For traditional life and immediate annuities, policy benefit claims are charged to expense in the period that the claims are incurred, net of reinsurance recoveries. Stock-Based Compensation In general, we expense the fair value of stock awards included in our incentive compensation plans. As of the date our stock awards are approved and communicated to the recipients, the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes options valuation methodology, and the fair value of other stock awards is based upon the market value of the stock. The fair value of the awards is expensed over the performance or service period, which generally corresponds to the vesting period, and is recognized as an increase to “Additional paid-in capital” in “Shareholders’ equity”. We classify certain stock awards as liabilities. For these awards, the fair value is classified as a liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the liability is marked-to-market through net income at the end of each reporting period. Stock-based compensation expense is reflected in “Acquisition and operating expenses, net of deferrals” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. If we modify an award or change our intent to settle an award in equity or cash, we recognize additional compensation expense for the increase in the fair value of the award between the grant date and the date of modification for change in intent and any periods subsequent to the modification, if applicable. As described under "Recent Accounting Pronouncements" in Note 2, the Company early adopted ASU 2016-09 effective October 1, 2015. The adoption of ASU 2016-09 did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements and related disclosures. Interest Expense Interest expense on our debt is recognized as due and any associated premiums, discounts, and costs are amortized (accreted) over the term of the related borrowing utilizing the straight line method. Interest expense also includes non-use fees on the revolving credit facility entered into in August 2014. Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing earnings available to common shareholders by the average common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed assuming the conversion or exercise of nonvested stock, stock options, and performance share units outstanding during the year. Stock options are excluded from the computation of diluted EPS, based on the application of the treasury stock method, if they are anti-dilutive. Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. As of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , and the company held cash equivalents of $45 and $465 , respectively. Investments Investment Securities The Company’s investments in fixed maturity and equity securities have been designated as AFS and are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income” (“AOCI”), net of associated intangibles “shadow adjustments” (discussed in "Note 7. Intangibles" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ) and deferred income taxes. Available-for-Sale Securities' Other-Than-Temporary Impairments The Company regularly reviews AFS securities for declines in fair value that it determines to be other-than-temporary. For an equity security, if the Company does not have the ability and intent to hold the security for a sufficient and reasonable period of time to allow for a recovery in value, it concludes that an OTTI has occurred and the cost of the equity security is written down to the current fair value, with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. When assessing its ability and intent to hold an equity security to recovery, the Company considers, among other things, the severity and duration of the decline in fair value of the equity security as well as the cause of the decline, a fundamental analysis of the liquidity, business prospects and the overall financial condition of the issuer. For its available-for-sale securities, the Company generally considers the following in determining whether its unrealized losses are other-than-temporary: • The estimated range and period until recovery; • The extent and the duration of the decline; • The reasons for the decline in value (credit event, currency or interest-rate related, including general credit spread widening); • The financial condition of and near-term prospects of the issuer (including issuer’s current credit rating and the probability of full recovery of principal based upon the issuer’s financial strength); • Current delinquencies and nonperforming assets of underlying collateral; • Expected future default rates; • Collateral value by vintage, geographic region, industry concentration or property type; • Subordination levels or other credit enhancements as of the balance sheet date as compared to origination; and • Contractual and regulatory cash obligations and the issuer's plans to meet such obligations. The Company recognizes OTTI on debt (including redeemable and perpetual preferred stocks) securities in an unrealized loss position when one of the following circumstances exists: • The Company does not expect full recovery of its amortized cost based on the estimate of cash flows expected to be collected; • The Company intends to sell a security; or • It is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell a security prior to recovery. If the Company intends to sell a fixed maturity available-for-sale security or it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the fair value of the security is below amortized cost, the Company will conclude that an OTTI has occurred and the amortized cost is written down to current fair value, with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. If the Company does not intend to sell a fixed maturity security or it is more likely than not the Company will not be required to sell a fixed maturity security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost of the security (referred to as the credit loss), an OTTI has occurred and the amortized cost is written down to the estimated recovery value with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations, as this amount is deemed the credit loss portion of the OTTI. The remainder of the decline to fair value is recorded in AOCI as unrealized OTTI on available-for-sale securities, as this amount is considered a non-credit (i.e., recoverable) impairment. When assessing the Company’s intent to sell a fixed maturity security or if it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell a fixed maturity security before recovery of its cost basis, the Company evaluates facts and circumstances such as, but not limited to, decisions to reposition the Company’s security portfolio, sale of securities to meet cash flow needs and sales of securities to capitalize on favorable pricing and tax planning strategies. In order to determine the amount of the credit loss for a security, the Company calculates the recovery value by performing a discounted cash flow analysis based on the current cash flows and future cash flows the Company expects to recover. The discount rate is the effective interest rate implicit in the underlying security. The effective interest rate is the original purchased yield or the yield at the date the fixed maturity security was previously impaired. When evaluating redeemable preferred stocks for OTTI the Company applies the accounting policy described above for fixed maturity securities. Additionally, the SEC’s staff in the Office of the Chief Accountant issued a letter (SEC OTTI Release) to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) on October 14, 2008, providing clarifying guidance on how to assess impairments of perpetual preferred securities (“PPS”), including perpetual preferred stock. After consultation with and concurrence of the FASB staff, the SEC staff has concluded that it will not object to an issuer treating a PPS similar to a fixed maturity security in an OTTI evaluation (including an anticipated recovery period), provided there has been no evidence of a deterioration in credit of the issuer. Consequently, when such criteria is met we apply the OTTI guidance of fixed maturity securities to perpetual preferred stock. When evaluating mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, the Company considers a number of pool-specific factors as well as market level factors when determining whether or not the impairment on the security is temporary or other-than-temporary. The most important factor is the performance of the underlying collateral in the security and the trends of that performance. The Company uses this information about the collateral to forecast the timing and rate of mortgage loan defaults, including making projections for loans that are already delinquent and for those loans that are currently performing but may become delinquent in the future. Other factors used in this analysis include type of underlying collateral (e.g., prime, Alternative A-paper (“Alt-A”), or subprime), geographic distribution of underlying loans and timing of liquidations by state. Once default rates and timing assumptions are determined, the Company then makes assumptions regarding the severity of a default if it were to occur. Factors that impact the severity assumption include expectations for future home price appreciation or depreciation, loan size, first lien versus second lien, existence of loan level private mortgage insurance, type of occupancy and geographic distribution of loans. Once default and severity assumptions are determined for the security in question, cash flows for the underlying collateral are projected, including expected defaults and prepayments. These cash flows on the collateral are then translated to cash flows on the Company’s tranche based on the cash flow waterfall of the entire capital security structure. If this analysis indicates the entire principal on a particular security will not be returned, the security is reviewed for OTTI by comparing the present value of expected cash flows to amortized cost. To the extent that the security has already been impaired or was purchased at a discount, such that the amortized cost of the security is less than or equal to the present value of cash flows expected to be collected, no impairment is required. The Company also considers the ability of monoline insurers to meet their contractual guarantees on wrapped mortgage-backed securities. Otherwise, if the amortized cost of the security is greater than the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected, then an OTTI is recognized. The Company includes on the face of the Consolidated Statements of Operations the total OTTI recognized in "Net investment gains (losses)", with an offset for the amount of non-credit impairments recognized in AOCI. The Company discloses the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI and other disclosures related to OTTI in "Note 4. Investments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Mortgage Loans on Real Estate The Company’s mortgage loans on real estate are all commercial mortgage loans, which are reported at amortized cost, less impairment write-downs and allowance for losses. If a mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement or the loan is modified in a troubled debt restructuring), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the lower of either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan’s original purchase yield, or fair value of the collateral. For those mortgages that are determined to require foreclosure, the carrying value is reduced to the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of estimated costs to obtain and sell at the point of foreclosure. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing an allowance with the offset recorded in "Net investment gains (losses)" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Mortgage loans are evaluated by the Company’s investment professionals, including an appraisal of loan-specific credit quality, property characteristics and market trends. Loan performance is continuously monitored on a loan-specific basis throughout the year. The Company’s review includes submitted appraisals, operating statements, rent revenues and annual inspection reports, among other items. This review evaluates whether the properties are performing at a consistent and acceptable level to secure the debt. Mortgages are rated for the purpose of quantifying the level of risk. Those loans with higher risk are placed on a watch list and are closely monitored for collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. The Company defines delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice as 30 days past due. Interest on loans is recognized on an accrual basis at the applicable interest rate on the principal amount outstanding. Loan origination fees and direct costs, as well as premiums and discounts, are amortized as level yield adjustments over the respective loan terms. Unamortized net fees or costs are recognized upon early repayment of the loans. Loan commitment fees are deferred and amortized on an effective yield basis over the term of the loan. We establish mortgage loan valuation allowances both on a loan specific basis for those loans considered impaired where a property specific or market specific risk has been identified that could likely result in a future loss, as well as for pools of loans with similar risk characteristics where a property specific or market specific risk has not been identified, but for which we expect to incur a loss. Accordingly, a valuation allowance is provided to absorb these estimated probable credit losses. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not identify any specific loans that were impaired. The determination of the amount of valuation allowances is based upon our periodic evaluation and assessment of inherent risks associated with our loan portfolios. Such evaluations and assessments are based upon several factors, including our experience for loan losses, defaults and loss severity, and loss expectations for loans with similar risk characteristics. We evaluate and monitor loan-to-value ("LTV") ratios and debt service coverage ("DSC") ratios of our loans as indicators of potential risk of default in establishing our valuation allowance. Derivative Financial Instruments The Company hedges certain portions of its exposure to product related equity market risk by entering into derivative transactions. All of such derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. The change in fair value is recognized within “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company purchases financial instruments and issues products that may contain embedded derivative instruments. If it is determined that the embedded derivative possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract for measurement purposes. The embedded derivative is carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . Reinsurance Related Embedded Derivatives FGL Insurance has a modified coinsurance arrangement with FSRCI, meaning that funds are withheld by FGL Insurance. This arrangement creates an obligation for FGL Insurance to pay FSRCI at a later date, which results in an embedded derivative. This embedded derivative is considered a total return swap with contractual returns that are attributable to the assets and liabilities associated with this reinsurance arrangement. The fair value of the total return swap is based on the change in fair value of the underlying assets held in the funds withheld portfolio. Investment results for the assets that support the coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance arrangement, including gains and losses from sales, are passed directly to the reinsurer pursuant to contractual terms of the reinsurance arrangement. The reinsurance related embedded derivative is reported in “Other assets”, if in a net gain position, or "Other liabilities", if in a net loss position, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the related gains or losses are reported in “Net investment gains” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Limited Partnership Investment Our investments in limited partnerships are included in other invested assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We account for our investments in limited partnerships using the equity method to determine the carrying value. Income from the limited partnership is included in net investment income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Recognition of income is delayed due to the availability of the related financial statements, which are obtained from the partnership’s general partner generally on a one to three-month delay. Management also meets quarterly with the general partner to determine whether any credit or other market events have occurred since prior quarter financial statements to ensure any material events are properly included in current quarter valuation and investment income. In addition, the impact of audit adjustments related to completion of calendar-year financial statement audits of the limited partnership are typically received during the third quarter of each fiscal year. Accordingly, our investment income from the limited partnership investment for any fiscal-year period may not include the complete impact of the change in the underlying net assets for the partnership for that fiscal-year period. Intangible Assets The Company’s intangible assets include value of business acquired (“VOBA”), deferred acquisition cost (“DAC”) and deferred sales inducements (“DSI”). VOBA is an intangible asset that reflects the estimated fair value of in-force contracts in a life insurance company acquisition less the amount recorded as insurance contract liabilities. It represents the portion of the purchase price that is allocated to the value of the rights to receive future cash flows from the business in force at the acquisition date. DAC consists principally of commissions that are related directly to the successful sale of new or recoverable insurance contracts, which may be deferred to the extent recoverable. Indirect or unsuccessful acquisition costs, maintenance, product development and overhead expenses are charged to expense as incurred. DSI represents up front bonus credits and vesting bonuses to policyholder account values, which are accounted for similarly to DAC and are recorded within the DAC asset balance. The methodology for determining the amortization of DAC and VOBA varies by product type. For all insurance contracts accounted for under long-duration contract deposit accounting, amortization is based on assumptions consistent with those used in the development of the underlying contract adjusted for emerging experience and expected trends. DAC and VOBA amortization are reported within “Amortization of intangibles” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. DAC and VOBA for investment-type products and DAC for IUL products are generally amortized over the lives of the policies in relation to the incidence of estimated gross profits (“EGPs”) from investment income, surrender charges and other product fees, policy benefits, maintenance expenses, mortality net of reinsurance ceded and expense margins, and recognized gains (losses) on investments and changes in fair value of the coinsurance embedded derivative. Changes in assumptions can have a significant impact on DAC and VOBA balances and amortization rates. Due to the relative size and sensitivity to minor changes in underlying assumptions of DAC and VOBA balances, the Company performs quarterly and annual analyses of DAC and VOBA for the annuity and IUL businesses. The DAC and VOBA balances are also periodically evaluated for recoverability to ensure that the unamortized portion does not exceed the expected recoverable amounts. At each evaluation date, actual historical gross profits are reflected, and estimated future gross profits and related assumptions are evaluated for continued reasonableness. Any adjustment in estimated future gross profits requires that the amortization rate be revised (“unlocking”) retroactively to the date of the policy or contract issuance. The cumulative unlocking adjustment is recognized as a component of current period amortization. The carrying amounts of DAC and VOBA are adjusted for the effects of realized and unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities classified as available-for-sale and certain derivatives and embedded derivatives. For investment-type products, the DAC and VOBA assets are adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains (losses) on investments as if these gains (losses) had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. Amortization expense of DAC and VOBA reflects an assumption for an expected level of credit-related investment losses. When actual credit-related investment losses are realized, the Company performs a retrospective unlocking of DAC and VOBA amortization as actual margins vary from expected margins. This unlocking is reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Reinsurance The Company’s insurance subsidiaries enter into reinsurance agreements with other companies in the normal course of business. The assets, liabilities, premiums and benefits of certain reinsurance contracts are presented on a net basis in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations , respectively, when there is a right of offset explicit in the reinsurance agreements. All other reinsurance agreements are reported on a gross basis in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as an asset for amounts recoverable from reinsurers or as a component of other liabilities for amounts, such as premiums, owed to the reinsurers, with the exception of amounts for which the right of offset also exists. Premiums and benefits are reported net of insurance ceded. Front Street Re (Cayman) Ltd (“FSRCI”) Effective December 31, 2012, FGL Insurance entered into a reinsurance treaty with FSRCI, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of HRG, FGL’s parent, whereby FGL Insurance ceded 10% of its June 30, 2012 in-force annuity block business not already reinsured on a funds withheld basis. Effective September 17, 2014, FGL Insurance entered into a second reinsurance treaty with FSRCI whereby FGL Insurance ceded 30% of any new business of its multi-year guaranteed annuity block of business ("MYGA") issued effective September 17, 2014 and later on a funds withheld basis. Under the terms of the agreement, no initial ceding commission was paid as all of the underlying business is new business. The September 17, 2014 treaty was subsequently terminated as to new business effective April 30, 2015, but will remain in effect for policies ceded to FSRCI with an effective date between September 17, 2014 and April 30, 2015. Accordingly, policies issued with an effective date of May 1, 2015 and later will not be ceded to FSRCI. Income Taxes FGL and certain of its non-life insurance subsidiaries are included in the consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return of HRG. The Company’s life insurance subsidiaries file a consolidated life insurance income tax return. Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company assesses the recoverability of its deferred tax assets in each reporting period under the guidance outlined within Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 740, “Income Taxes”. The guidance requires an assessment of both positive and negative evidence in determining the realizability of deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is required to reduce the Company’s deferred tax asset to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In determining the net deferred tax asset and valuation allowance, management is required to make judgments and estimates related to projections of future profitability. These judgments include the following: the timing and extent of the utilization of net operating loss carry-forwards, the reversals of temporary differences, and tax planning strategies. Because of the change in facts and circumstances described in "Note 11. Income Taxes" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements , during the year ended September 30, 2014 the Company determined that a portion of its existing deferred tax assets that had previously had a valuation allowance placed against them, were now more likely than not recoverable. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company has the ability and intent to recover in a tax-free manner assets (or liabilities) with book/tax basis differences for which no deferred taxes have been provided, in accordance with ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes". The Company applies the accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions which prescribes a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. The guidance also provides information on de-recognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. Accrued interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recorded in “Income tax expense (benefit)” in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company had no unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 . Contractholder Funds The liabilities for contr

Significant Risks and Uncertain

Significant Risks and Uncertainties	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Significant Risks and Uncertainties	Significant Risks and Uncertainties Federal Regulation In April 2016, the Department of Labor (“DOL”) issued the “fiduciary” rule which could have a material impact on the Company, its products, distribution, and business model. The rule provides that persons who render investment advice for a fee or other compensation with respect to an employer plan or individual retirement account ("IRA") are fiduciaries of that plan or IRA. The rule expands the definition of fiduciary under ERISA to apply to insurance agents who advise and sell products to IRA owners. As a result, commissioned insurance agents selling the Company’s IRA products must qualify for a prohibited transaction exemption, either the newly introduced Best Interest Contract Exemption (BICE) or amended PTE 84-24. When fully implemented, BICE would apply to fixed indexed annuities and amended PTE 84-24 would apply to fixed rate annuities. The rule and exemptions have been the subject of much controversy and various actions have been taken by DOL to delay and reconsider aspects of the rule and exemptions. The rule took effect June 2016 and was scheduled to become applicable in April 2017 but the “applicability date" was delayed by DOL for 60 days from April 10, 2017 to June 9, 2017. DOL also acted to delay many aspects of the prohibited transaction exemption requirements during a transition period from June 9, 2017 to January 1, 2018 provided the agent (and if applicable, financial institution) comply with “impartial conduct standards.” The impartial conduct standards essentially require the sale to be in the “best interest” of the client, misleading statements not be made, and compensation be reasonable. More recently, DOL has proposed extending the transition period to July 1, 2019 which at the present time is still under consideration. Industry continues its efforts to overturn the rule in court actions and Congress continues to consider related legislation but the success or failure of these efforts cannot be predicted. Assuming the rule is not overturned and the requirements of the exemptions were to be implemented fully, the impact on the financial services industry generally and on the Company and its business in particular is difficult to assess. We believe however it could have an adverse effect on sales of annuity products to IRA owners particularly in the independent agent distribution channel. A significant portion of our annuity sales are to IRAs. Compliance with the prohibited transaction exemptions when fully phased in would likely require additional supervision of agents, cause changes to compensation practices and product offerings, and increase litigation risk, all of which could adversely impact our business, results of operations and/or financial condition. FGL Insurance will continue to monitor developments closely and believes it is prepared to execute implementation plans as necessary to meet the rule and exemption requirements on the requisite applicability dates. Use of Estimates and Assumptions The preparation of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at 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 and assumptions used. The Company’s significant estimates which are susceptible to change in the near term relate to (1) recognition of deferred tax assets and related valuation allowances, (2) fair value of certain invested assets and derivatives including embedded derivatives (see "Note 4. Investments", "Note 5. Derivative Financial Instruments" and "Note 6. Fair Value of Financial Instruments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ), (3) OTTI of available-for-sale investments (see "Note 4. Investments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ), (4) amortization of intangibles (see "Note 7. Intangible Assets" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ), (5) estimates of reserves for loss contingencies, including litigation and regulatory reserves (see "Note 12. Commitments and Contingencies" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ), (6) reserves for future policy benefits and product guarantees and (7) recognition of stock-based compensation expense (see "Note 10. Stock Compensation" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ). The Company periodically, and at least annually, reviews the assumptions associated with reserves for policy benefits, product guarantees, and amortization of intangibles. As part of the assumption review process that occurred in September 2017 , changes were made to the surrender rates, guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit (“GMWB”) partial withdrawal utilization, and earned rates to bring assumptions in line with current and expected future experience. As part of the assumption review process in September 2016 , changes were made to the surrender rates and earned rates, and as part of the September 2015 review, changes were made to the earned rates and the guaranteed option costs. The change in assumptions as of September 30, 2017 resulted in a net increase in future expected margins and a corresponding decrease in “unlocking” and amortization expense. This ultimately resulted in an increase to intangible assets of $40 . These assumptions are also used in the reserve calculation and resulted in an increase in reserves of $33 in the year ended September 30, 2017 . The change in assumptions as of September 30, 2016 resulted in a net increase in future expected margins and a corresponding decrease in “unlocking” and amortization expense and increase to intangible assets of $20 . These assumptions are also used in the reserve calculation and resulted in an increase in reserves of $22 in the year ended September 30, 2016 . The change in assumptions as of September 30, 2015 resulted in a net increase in future expected margins and a corresponding decrease in “unlocking” and amortization expense and increase to intangible assets of $55 . These assumptions are also used in the reserve calculation and resulted in an increase in reserves of $18 in the year ended September 30, 2015 . Concentrations of Financial Instruments As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , the Company’s most significant investment in one industry, excluding United States ("U.S.") Government securities, was its investment securities in the banking industry with a fair value of $2,827 or 12% and $2,448 or 12% , respectively, of the invested assets portfolio and an amortized cost of $2,695 and $2,352 , respectively. As of September 30, 2017 , the Company’s holdings in this industry include investments in 115 different issuers with the top ten investments accounting for 30% of the total holdings in this industry. As of both September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , the Company had no investments in issuers that exceeded 10% of shareholders' equity. The Company's largest concentration in any single issuer as of both September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 was Wells Fargo & Company , with a total fair value of $155 or 1% and $171 or 1% of the invested assets portfolio, respectively. Concentrations of Financial and Capital Markets Risk The Company is exposed to financial and capital markets risk, including changes in interest rates and credit spreads which can have an adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. The Company expects to continue to face challenges and uncertainties that could adversely affect its results of operations and financial condition. The Company attempts to mitigate the risk, including changes in interest rates by investing in less rate-sensitive investments, including senior tranches of collateralized loan obligations, non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities, and various types of asset backed securities. The Company’s exposure to such financial and capital markets risk relates primarily to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in interest rates. A rise in interest rates, in the absence of other countervailing changes, will decrease the net unrealized gain position of the Company’s investment portfolio and, if long-term interest rates rise dramatically within a six to twelve month time period, certain of the Company’s products may be exposed to disintermediation risk. Disintermediation risk refers to the risk that policyholders may surrender their contracts in a rising interest rate environment, requiring the Company to liquidate assets in an unrealized loss position. Management believes this risk is mitigated to some extent by surrender charge protection provided by the Company’s products. Concentration of Reinsurance Risk The Company has a significant concentration of reinsurance with Wilton Reassurance Company (“Wilton Re”), a third-party reinsurer, and Front Street Re (Cayman) Ltd. ("FSRCI"), an affiliate, that could have a material impact on the Company’s financial position in the event that Wilton Re or FSRCI fail to perform their obligations under the various reinsurance treaties. Wilton Re is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board ("CPPIB"). CPPIB has an AAA issuer credit rating from Standard & Poor's Ratings Services ("S&P") as of September 30, 2017 . As of September 30, 2017 , the net amount recoverable from Wilton Re was $1,535 and the net amount recoverable from FSRCI was $1,016 . The coinsurance agreement with FSRCI is on a funds withheld basis. The Company monitors both the financial condition of individual reinsurers and risk concentration arising from similar geographic regions, activities, and economic characteristics of reinsurers to attempt to reduce the risk of default by such reinsurers.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments	1.25 1.00 - 1.25 <1.00 N/A(a) September 30, 2017 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 222 $ — $ — $ 1 $ 223 41 % $ 226 41 % 50% to 60% 232 — — — 232 42 % 233 42 % 60% to 75% 86 7 — — 93 17 % 93 17 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 540 $ 7 $ — $ 1 $ 548 100 % $ 552 100 % September 30, 2016 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 158 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 177 29 % $ 181 29 % 50% to 60% 189 — — — 189 32 % 194 32 % 60% to 75% 230 — — — 230 39 % 239 39 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 577 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 596 100 % $ 614 100 % (a) N/A - Current DSC ratio not available. We establish a general mortgage loan allowance based upon the underlying risk and quality of the mortgage loan portfolio using DSC ratio and LTV ratio. A higher LTV ratio will result in a higher allowance. A higher DSC ratio will result in a lower allowance. We believe that the DSC ratio is an indicator of default risk on loans. We believe that the LTV ratio is an indicator of the principal recovery risk for loans that default. September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Gross balance commercial mortgage loans $ 548 $ 596 Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Net balance commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 The Company recognizes a mortgage loan as delinquent when payments on the loan are greater than 30 days past due. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , we had no CMLs that were delinquent in principal or interest payments. The following provides the current and past due composition of our CMLs: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Current to 30 days $ 548 $ 596 Past due — — Total carrying value $ 548 $ 596 A Troubled Debt Restructuring ("TDR") is a situation where we have granted a concession to a borrower for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not otherwise consider. A mortgage loan that has been granted new terms, including workout terms as described previously, would be considered a TDR if it meets conditions that would indicate a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the new terms constitute a concession on our part. We analyze all loans where we have agreed to workout terms and all loans that we have refinanced to determine if they meet the definition of a TDR. We consider the following factors in determining whether or not a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty: • borrower is in default, • borrower has declared bankruptcy, • there is growing concern about the borrower's ability to continue as a going concern, • borrower has insufficient cash flows to service debt, • borrower's inability to obtain funds from other sources, and • there is a breach of financial covenants by the borrower. If the borrower is determined to be in financial difficulty, we consider the following conditions to determine if the borrower will be granted a concession: • assets used to satisfy debt are less than our recorded investment, • interest rate is modified, • maturity date extension at an interest rate less than market rate, • capitalization of interest, • delaying principal and/or interest for a period of three months or more, and • partial forgiveness of the balance or charge-off. Mortgage loan workouts, refinances or restructures that are classified as TDRs are individually evaluated and measured for impairment. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , our CML portfolio had no impairments, modifications or troubled debt restructuring. Net Investment Income The major sources of “Net investment income” on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale $ 953 $ 869 $ 799 Equity securities, available-for-sale 41 32 33 Commercial mortgage loans 23 24 11 Related party loans — 4 6 Invested cash and short-term investments 3 3 2 Other investments 7 9 20 Gross investment income 1,027 941 871 Investment expense (22 ) (18 ) (20 ) Net investment income $ 1,005 $ 923 $ 851 During the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2015, the Company received notice that we are entitled to receive a settlement as a result of our ownership of certain RMBS that were issued by Countrywide Financial Corporation ("Countrywide"), an entity which was later acquired by Bank of America Corporation. An $18 cash settlement was received in the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2016 for a majority of the Countrywide securities, and another $2 was expected to be paid in the third fiscal quarter of 2017; however, the two bonds involved are a part of ongoing litigation, and the settlement proceeds have been escrowed pending resolution of this process. In compliance with the Company's accounting policy described in "Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies and Practices", the Company updated its cash flow projections for its best estimate of the recovery as of May 31, 2016 and determined the new effective yield with the resulting immaterial impact recognized in "Net investment income". The trustee and settlement administrator indicate timing of a resolution is unknown. Net Investment Gains (Losses) Details underlying “Net investment gains (losses)” reported on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net realized (losses) gains on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities $ (20 ) $ 11 $ 11 Realized gains (losses) on equity securities 3 1 — Change in fair value of other derivatives and embedded derivatives 3 — 7 Realized losses on other invested assets (2 ) (26 ) (40 ) Net realized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities (16 ) (14 ) (22 ) Realized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 219 (84 ) 108 Unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 129 166 (215 ) Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative (16 ) (49 ) 92 Realized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives and reinsurance-related embedded derivatives 332 33 (15 ) Net investment gains (losses) $ 316 $ 19 $ (37 ) For the year ended September 30, 2017 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities totaled $703 , gross gains on such sales totaled $25 and gross losses totaled $20 , respectively. For the year ended September 30, 2016 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, totaled $1,318 , gross gains on such sales totaled $40 and gross losses totaled $23 , respectively. For the year ended September 30, 2015 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, totaled $3,200 , gross gains on such sales totaled $104 and gross losses totaled $44 , respectively. Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities The Company owns investments in VIEs that are not consolidated within the Company’s financial statements. VIEs do not have sufficient equity to finance their own activities without additional financial support and certain of its investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. These VIEs are not consolidated in the Company’s financial statements for the following reasons: 1) FGL Insurance either does not control or does not have any voting rights or notice rights; 2) the Company does not have any rights to remove the investment manager; and 3) the Company was not involved in the design of the investment. These characteristics indicate that FGL Insurance lacks the ability to direct the activities, or otherwise exert control, of the VIEs and is not considered the primary beneficiary of them. FGL Insurance participates in loans to third parties originated by Salus. Salus is an affiliated, limited liability company indirectly owned by HRG that originates senior secured asset-based loans to unaffiliated third-party borrowers. FGL Insurance also participates in CLOs managed by Salus and owns preferred equity in Salus within the funds withheld portfolio of the FSRCI treaty. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its investments in or with Salus is limited to the carrying value of its investments in Salus which totaled $2 and $22 as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. FGL’s investments in or with Salus are detailed in “Note 14. Related Party Transactions” to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements . FGL also executed a commitment of $75 to purchase common shares in an unaffiliated private business development company ("BDC"). The BDC invests in secured and unsecured fixed maturity and equity securities of middle market companies in the United States. Due to the voting structure of the transaction, FGL does not have voting power. The initial capital call occurred June 30, 2015, with the remaining commitment expected to fund through 2017. FGL has funded $42 as of September 30, 2017 . In the normal course of its activities, the Company invests in various limited partnerships as a passive investor. These investments are in corporate credit and real estate debt strategies that have a current income bias. Limited partnership interests are accounted for under the equity method and are included in “Other invested assets” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The Company's maximum exposure to loss with respect to these investments is limited to the investment carrying amounts reported in the Company's consolidated balance sheet in addition to any required unfunded commitments. As of September 30, 2017 , the Company's maximum exposure to loss was $152 in recorded carrying value and $116 in unfunded commitments." id="sjs-B4">Investments The Company’s fixed maturity and equity securities investments have been designated as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in AOCI net of associated adjustments for DAC, VOBA, and deferred income taxes. The Company’s consolidated investments at September 30, 2017 and 2016 are summarized as follows: September 30, 2017 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Carrying Value Available-for sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 2,852 $ 38 $ (5 ) $ 2,885 $ 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 974 14 (10 ) 978 978 Corporates 12,027 794 (91 ) 12,730 12,730 Equities 733 42 (2 ) 773 773 Hybrids 1,388 93 (16 ) 1,465 1,465 Municipals 1,573 163 (10 ) 1,726 1,726 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,144 124 (5 ) 1,263 1,263 U.S. Government 105 2 — 107 107 Total available-for-sale securities 20,796 1,270 (139 ) 21,927 21,927 Derivative investments 225 190 (2 ) 413 413 Commercial mortgage loans 547 — — 552 547 Other invested assets 185 — — 182 185 Total investments $ 21,753 $ 1,460 $ (141 ) $ 23,074 $ 23,072 September 30, 2016 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Carrying Value Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 2,528 $ 16 $ (45 ) $ 2,499 $ 2,499 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 850 23 (9 ) 864 864 Corporates 10,712 760 (132 ) 11,340 11,340 Equities 640 47 (4 ) 683 683 Hybrids 1,356 77 (47 ) 1,386 1,386 Municipals 1,515 206 (4 ) 1,717 1,717 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,327 63 (28 ) 1,362 1,362 U.S. Government 233 10 — 243 243 Total available-for-sale securities 19,161 1,202 (269 ) 20,094 20,094 Derivative investments 221 78 (23 ) 276 276 Commercial mortgage loans 595 — — 614 595 Other invested assets 60 — — 58 60 Total investments $ 20,037 $ 1,280 $ (292 ) $ 21,042 $ 21,025 Included in AOCI were cumulative gross unrealized gains of $1 and gross unrealized losses of $3 related to the non-credit portion of OTTI on non-agency residential mortgage-backed securities ("RMBS") at September 30, 2017 and gross unrealized gains of $1 and gross unrealized losses of $3 related to the non-credit portion of OTTI on RMBS at September 30, 2016 , respectively. Securities held on deposit with various state regulatory authorities had a fair value of $19,765 and $18,075 at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Under Iowa regulations, insurance companies are required to hold securities on deposit in an amount no less than the Company's legal reserve as prescribed by Iowa regulations. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , the Company held investments that were non-income producing for a period greater than twelve months with fair values of $0 and $2 , respectively. In accordance with the Company's FHLB agreements, the investments supporting the funding agreement liabilities are pledged as collateral to secure the FHLB funding agreement liabilities. The collateral investments had a fair value of $729 and $649 at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities by contractual maturities, as applicable, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or pre-pay obligations. September 30, 2017 Amortized Cost Fair Value Corporates, Non-structured Hybrids, Municipal and U.S. Government securities: Due in one year or less $ 342 $ 342 Due after one year through five years 1,765 1,825 Due after five years through ten years 3,225 3,377 Due after ten years 8,987 9,689 Subtotal 14,319 15,233 Other securities which provide for periodic payments: Asset-backed securities 2,852 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 974 978 Structured hybrids 774 795 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,144 1,263 Subtotal 5,744 5,921 Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities $ 20,063 $ 21,154 The Company's available-for-sale securities with unrealized losses are reviewed for potential OTTI. For factors considered in evaluating whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary, please refer to “Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies and Practices" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements . The Company analyzes its ability to recover the amortized cost by comparing the net present value of cash flows expected to be collected with the amortized cost of the security. 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 fixed maturity securities, cash flow estimates are driven by assumptions regarding probability of default and estimates regarding timing and amount of recoveries associated with a default. If the net present value is less than the amortized cost of the investment, an OTTI is recognized. Based on the results of our process for evaluating available-for-sale securities in unrealized loss positions for OTTI discussed above, the Company determined that the unrealized losses as of September 30, 2017 decreased due to price improvement in floating rate asset classes due to increased LIBOR rates. This was aided by strong overall economic fundamentals that drove demand for riskier assets. Based on an assessment of all securities in the portfolio in unrealized loss positions, the Company determined that the unrealized losses on the securities presented in the table below were not other-than-temporarily impaired as of September 30, 2017 . The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale securities, aggregated by investment category and duration of fair value below amortized cost, were as follows: September 30, 2017 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 487 $ (2 ) $ 305 $ (3 ) $ 792 $ (5 ) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 222 (4 ) 163 (6 ) 385 (10 ) Corporates 978 (16 ) 752 (75 ) 1,730 (91 ) Equities 28 — 17 (2 ) 45 (2 ) Hybrids 36 — 290 (16 ) 326 (16 ) Municipals 154 (3 ) 48 (7 ) 202 (10 ) Residential mortgage-backed securities 6 — 120 (5 ) 126 (5 ) U.S. Government 26 — — — 26 — Total available-for-sale securities $ 1,937 $ (25 ) $ 1,695 $ (114 ) $ 3,632 $ (139 ) Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position less than twelve months 316 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or longer 295 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position 611 September 30, 2016 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 352 $ (4 ) $ 1,368 $ (41 ) $ 1,720 $ (45 ) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 44 (1 ) 182 (8 ) 226 (9 ) Corporates 413 (9 ) 1,031 (123 ) 1,444 (132 ) Equities 51 (1 ) 75 (3 ) 126 (4 ) Hybrids 41 (2 ) 412 (45 ) 453 (47 ) Municipals 69 (2 ) 38 (2 ) 107 (4 ) Residential mortgage-backed securities 70 (1 ) 544 (27 ) 614 (28 ) Total available-for-sale securities $ 1,040 $ (20 ) $ 3,650 $ (249 ) $ 4,690 $ (269 ) Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position less than twelve months 193 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or longer 543 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position 736 At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , securities in an unrealized loss position were primarily concentrated in investment grade, corporate debt and hybrid instruments. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , securities with a fair value of $59 and $183 , respectively, had an unrealized loss greater than 20% of amortized cost (excluding U.S. Government and U.S. Government sponsored agency securities), which represented 0% and less than 1% of the carrying value of all investments, respectively. The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the credit loss portion of OTTI on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities held by the Company for the years ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 , for which a portion of the OTTI was recognized in AOCI: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 3 $ 3 Increases attributable to credit losses on securities: OTTI was previously recognized — — OTTI was not previously recognized — — Ending balance $ 3 $ 3 For the year ended September 30, 2017 , the Company recognized $22 of credit impairment losses in operations and $0 of change-of-intent losses in operations, related to fixed maturity securities and other invested assets with an amortized cost of $0 and a fair value of $0 at September 30, 2017 . The Company recognized $0 non-credit losses in other comprehensive income for investments which experienced OTTI. For the year ended September 30, 2016 , the Company recognized $40 of credit impairment losses in operations and $4 of change-of-intent losses in operations, related to fixed maturity securities and other invested assets with an amortized cost of $42 and a fair value of $39 at September 30, 2016 . The Company recognized $1 non-credit losses in other comprehensive income for investments which experienced OTTI. For the year ended September 30, 2015 , the Company recognized $74 of credit impairment losses in operations and $8 of change-of-intent losses in operations, related to fixed maturity securities and other invested assets with an amortized cost of $260 and a fair value of $259 at September 30, 2015 . The Company recognized $0 non-credit losses in other comprehensive income for investments which experienced OTTI. Details underlying write-downs taken as a result of OTTI that were recognized in "Net income" and included in net realized gains on securities were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 OTTI Recognized in Net income: Asset-backed securities $ 2 $ 12 $ 36 Corporates 20 6 2 Related party loans — 4 — Residential mortgage-backed securities — — 8 Other invested assets — 22 36 Total $ 22 $ 44 $ 82 The portion of OTTI recognized in AOCI is disclosed in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). In the second fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2017, the Company recognized credit-related impairment losses of $20 on available-for-sale debt securities related to investments in First National Bank Holding Co. On April 28, 2017, the Federal Deposit Insurance Company (“FDIC”) shutdown First NBC Bank and named the FDIC as receiver. The bank was the holding company’s principal asset and as a result of the closure of the bank the holding company has limited remaining tangible assets. The Company expects no further recovery of its investment in First National Bank Holding Co. and has reflected the impairment in its financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2017. Commercial Mortgage Loans Commercial mortgage loans ("CMLs") represented approximately 2% and 3% of the Company’s total investments as of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , respectively. The Company primarily makes mortgage loans on income producing properties including hotels, industrial properties, retail buildings, multifamily properties and office buildings. The Company diversifies its CML portfolio by geographic region and property type to attempt to reduce concentration risk. The Company continuously evaluates CMLs based on relevant current information to ensure properties are performing at a consistent and acceptable level to secure the related debt. The distribution of CMLs, gross of valuation allowances, by property type and geographic region is reflected in the following tables: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Gross Carrying Value % of Total Gross Carrying Value % of Total Property Type: Funeral Home $ 1 — % $ 1 — % Hotel 23 4 % 23 4 % Industrial - General 45 8 % 58 10 % Industrial - Warehouse 38 7 % 64 11 % Multifamily 68 13 % 70 11 % Office 157 29 % 160 27 % Retail 216 39 % 220 37 % Total commercial mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowance $ 548 100 % $ 596 100 % Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Total commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 U.S. Region: East North Central $ 108 20 % $ 137 23 % East South Central 20 4 % 21 4 % Middle Atlantic 85 16 % 97 16 % Mountain 67 12 % 67 12 % New England 13 2 % 14 2 % Pacific 134 24 % 136 23 % South Atlantic 66 12 % 67 11 % West North Central 14 2 % 14 2 % West South Central 41 8 % 43 7 % Total commercial mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowance $ 548 100 % $ 596 100 % Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Total commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 Within the Company's CML portfolio, 100% of all CMLs had a loan-to-value ("LTV") ratio of less than 75% at September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 . As of September 30, 2017 , all CMLs are current and have not experienced credit or other events which would require the recording of an impairment loss. LTV and DSC ratios are measures commonly used to assess the risk and quality of mortgage loans. The LTV ratio, calculated at time of origination, is expressed as a percentage of the amount of the loan relative to the value of the underlying property. A LTV ratio in excess of 100% indicates the unpaid loan amount exceeds the underlying collateral. The DSC ratio, based upon the most recently received financial statements, is expressed as a percentage of the amount of a property’s net income to its debt service payments. A DSC ratio of less than 1.00 indicates that a property’s operations do not generate sufficient income to cover debt payments. The following table presents the recorded investment in CMLs by LTV and DSC ratio categories and estimated fair value by the indicated loan-to-value ratios at September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 : Debt-Service Coverage Ratios Total Amount % of Total Estimated Fair Value % of Total >1.25 1.00 - 1.25 <1.00 N/A(a) September 30, 2017 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 222 $ — $ — $ 1 $ 223 41 % $ 226 41 % 50% to 60% 232 — — — 232 42 % 233 42 % 60% to 75% 86 7 — — 93 17 % 93 17 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 540 $ 7 $ — $ 1 $ 548 100 % $ 552 100 % September 30, 2016 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 158 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 177 29 % $ 181 29 % 50% to 60% 189 — — — 189 32 % 194 32 % 60% to 75% 230 — — — 230 39 % 239 39 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 577 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 596 100 % $ 614 100 % (a) N/A - Current DSC ratio not available. We establish a general mortgage loan allowance based upon the underlying risk and quality of the mortgage loan portfolio using DSC ratio and LTV ratio. A higher LTV ratio will result in a higher allowance. A higher DSC ratio will result in a lower allowance. We believe that the DSC ratio is an indicator of default risk on loans. We believe that the LTV ratio is an indicator of the principal recovery risk for loans that default. September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Gross balance commercial mortgage loans $ 548 $ 596 Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Net balance commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 The Company recognizes a mortgage loan as delinquent when payments on the loan are greater than 30 days past due. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , we had no CMLs that were delinquent in principal or interest payments. The following provides the current and past due composition of our CMLs: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Current to 30 days $ 548 $ 596 Past due — — Total carrying value $ 548 $ 596 A Troubled Debt Restructuring ("TDR") is a situation where we have granted a concession to a borrower for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not otherwise consider. A mortgage loan that has been granted new terms, including workout terms as described previously, would be considered a TDR if it meets conditions that would indicate a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the new terms constitute a concession on our part. We analyze all loans where we have agreed to workout terms and all loans that we have refinanced to determine if they meet the definition of a TDR. We consider the following factors in determining whether or not a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty: • borrower is in default, • borrower has declared bankruptcy, • there is growing concern about the borrower's ability to continue as a going concern, • borrower has insufficient cash flows to service debt, • borrower's inability to obtain funds from other sources, and • there is a breach of financial covenants by the borrower. If the borrower is determined to be in financial difficulty, we consider the following conditions to determine if the borrower will be granted a concession: • assets used to satisfy debt are less than our recorded investment, • interest rate is modified, • maturity date extension at an interest rate less than market rate, • capitalization of interest, • delaying principal and/or interest for a period of three months or more, and • partial forgiveness of the balance or charge-off. Mortgage loan workouts, refinances or restructures that are classified as TDRs are individually evaluated and measured for impairment. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , our CML portfolio had no impairments, modifications or troubled debt restructuring. Net Investment Income The major sources of “Net investment income” on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale $ 953 $ 869 $ 799 Equity securities, available-for-sale 41 32 33 Commercial mortgage loans 23 24 11 Related party loans — 4 6 Invested cash and short-term investments 3 3 2 Other investments 7 9 20 Gross investment income 1,027 941 871 Investment expense (22 ) (18 ) (20 ) Net investment income $ 1,005 $ 923 $ 851 During the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2015, the Company received notice that we are entitled to receive a settlement as a result of our ownership of certain RMBS that were issued by Countrywide Financial Corporation ("Countrywide"), an entity which was later acquired by Bank of America Corporation. An $18 cash settlement was received in the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2016 for a majority of the Countrywide securities, and another $2 was expected to be paid in the third fiscal quarter of 2017; however, the two bonds involved are a part of ongoing litigation, and the settlement proceeds have been escrowed pending resolution of this process. In compliance with the Company's accounting policy described in "Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies and Practices", the Company updated its cash flow projections for its best estimate of the recovery as of May 31, 2016 and determined the new effective yield with the resulting immaterial impact recognized in "Net investment income". The trustee and settlement administrator indicate timing of a resolution is unknown. Net Investment Gains (Losses) Details underlying “Net investment gains (losses)” reported on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net realized (losses) gains on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities $ (20 ) $ 11 $ 11 Realized gains (losses) on equity securities 3 1 — Change in fair value of other derivatives and embedded derivatives 3 — 7 Realized losses on other invested assets (2 ) (26 ) (40 ) Net realized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities (16 ) (14 ) (22 ) Realized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 219 (84 ) 108 Unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 129 166 (215 ) Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative (16 ) (49 ) 92 Realized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives and reinsurance-related embedded derivatives 332 33 (15 ) Net investment gains (losses) $ 316 $ 19 $ (37 ) For the year ended September 30, 2017 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities totaled $703 , gross gains on such sales totaled $25 and gross losses totaled $20 , respectively. For the year ended September 30, 2016 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, totaled $1,318 , gross gains on such sales totaled $40 and gross losses totaled $23 , respectively. For the year ended September 30, 2015 , proceeds from the sale of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, totaled $3,200 , gross gains on such sales totaled $104 and gross losses totaled $44 , respectively. Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities The Company owns investments in VIEs that are not consolidated within the Company’s financial statements. VIEs do not have sufficient equity to finance their own activities without additional financial support and certain of its investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. These VIEs are not consolidated in the Company’s financial statements for the following reasons: 1) FGL Insurance either does not control or does not have any voting rights or notice rights; 2) the Company does not have any rights to remove the investment manager; and 3) the Company was not involved in the design of the investment. These characteristics indicate that FGL Insurance lacks the ability to direct the activities, or otherwise exert control, of the VIEs and is not considered the primary beneficiary of them. FGL Insurance participates in loans to third parties originated by Salus. Salus is an affiliated, limited liability company indirectly owned by HRG that originates senior secured asset-based loans to unaffiliated third-party borrowers. FGL Insurance also participates in CLOs managed by Salus and owns preferred equity in Salus within the funds withheld portfolio of the FSRCI treaty. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its investments in or with Salus is limited to the carrying value of its investments in Salus which totaled $2 and $22 as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. FGL’s investments in or with Salus are detailed in “Note 14. Related Party Transactions” to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements . FGL also executed a commitment of $75 to purchase common shares in an unaffiliated private business development company ("BDC"). The BDC invests in secured and unsecured fixed maturity and equity securities of middle market companies in the United States. Due to the voting structure of the transaction, FGL does not have voting power. The initial capital call occurred June 30, 2015, with the remaining commitment expected to fund through 2017. FGL has funded $42 as of September 30, 2017 . In the normal course of its activities, the Company invests in various limited partnerships as a passive investor. These investments are in corporate credit and real estate debt strategies that have a current income bias. Limited partnership interests are accounted for under the equity method and are included in “Other invested assets” on the Company’s consolidated balance sheet. The Company's maximum exposure to loss with respect to these investments is limited to the investment carrying amounts reported in the Company's consolidated balance sheet in addition to any required unfunded commitments. As of September 30, 2017 , the Company's maximum exposure to loss was $152 in recorded carrying value and $116 in unfunded commitments.

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in FIA contracts, is as follows: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Assets: Derivative investments: Call options $ 413 $ 276 Futures contracts — — Other invested assets: Other derivatives and embedded derivatives 15 13 Other assets: Reinsurance related embedded derivative 103 119 $ 531 $ 408 Liabilities: Contractholder funds: FIA embedded derivative $ 2,627 $ 2,383 Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities Call options payable to FSRCI 15 11 $ 2,642 $ 2,394 The change in fair value of derivative instruments included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations is as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Net investment (losses) gains: Call options $ 338 $ 74 $ (100 ) Futures contracts 10 8 (7 ) Other derivatives and embedded derivatives 3 — 7 Reinsurance related embedded derivative (16 ) (49 ) 92 $ 335 $ 33 $ (8 ) Benefits and other changes in policy reserves: FIA embedded derivatives $ 244 $ 234 $ 241 Additional Disclosures Other Derivatives and Embedded Derivatives On June 16, 2014, FGL Insurance invested in a $35 fund-linked note issued by Nomura International Funding Pte. Ltd. The note provides for an additional payment at maturity based on the value of an embedded derivative in AnchorPath Dedicated Return Fund (the "AnchorPath Fund") of $11 which was based on the actual return of the fund. At September 30, 2017 , the fair value of the fund-linked note and embedded derivative were $26 and $15 , respectively. At maturity of the fund-linked note, FGL Insurance will receive the $35 face value of the note plus the value of the embedded derivative in the AnchorPath Fund. The additional payment at maturity is an embedded derivative reported in "Other invested assets", while the host is an available-for-sale security reported in "Fixed maturities, available-for-sale". Reinsurance Related Embedded Derivatives FGL Insurance has a modified coinsurance arrangement with FSRCI, meaning that funds are withheld by FGL Insurance. This arrangement creates an obligation for FGL Insurance to pay FSRCI at a later date, which results in an embedded derivative. This embedded derivative is considered a total return swap with contractual returns that are attributable to the assets and liabilities associated with this reinsurance arrangement. The fair value of the total return swap is based on the change in fair value of the underlying assets held in the funds withheld portfolio. Investment results for the assets that support the coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance arrangement, including gains and losses from sales, are passed directly to the reinsurer pursuant to contractual terms of the reinsurance arrangement. The reinsurance related embedded derivative is reported in “Other assets”, if in a net gain position, or "Other liabilities", if in a net loss position, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the related gains or losses are reported in “Net investment gains” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. FIA Contracts The Company has FIA Contracts that permit the holder to elect an interest rate return or an equity index linked component, where interest credited to the contracts is linked to the performance of various equity indices, primarily the S&P 500 Index. This feature represents an embedded derivative under GAAP. The FIA embedded derivative is valued at fair value and included in the liability for contractholder funds in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets with changes in fair value included as a component of “Benefits and other changes in policy reserves” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company purchases derivatives consisting of a combination of call options and futures contracts on the applicable market indices to fund the index credits due to FIA contractholders. The call options are one , two , three , and five year options purchased to match the funding requirements of the underlying policies. On the respective anniversary dates of the index policies, the index used to compute the interest credit is reset and the Company purchases new one , two , three , or five year call options to fund the next index credit. The Company manages the cost of these purchases through the terms of its FIA contracts, which permit the Company to change caps, spreads or participation rates, subject to guaranteed minimums, on each contract’s anniversary date. The change in the fair value of the call options and futures contracts is generally designed to offset the portion of the change in the fair value of the FIA embedded derivative related to index performance. The call options and futures contracts are marked to fair value with the change in fair value included as a component of “Net investment gains.” The change in fair value of the call options and futures contracts includes the gains and losses recognized at the expiration of the instrument term or upon early termination and the changes in fair value of open positions. Other market exposures are hedged periodically depending on market conditions and the Company’s risk tolerance. The Company’s FIA hedging strategy economically hedges the equity returns and exposes the Company to the risk that unhedged market exposures result in divergence between changes in the fair value of the liabilities and the hedging assets. The Company uses a variety of techniques, including direct estimation of market sensitivities and value-at-risk to monitor this risk daily. The Company intends to continue to adjust the hedging strategy as market conditions and the Company’s risk tolerance change. Call option payable to FSRCI Under the terms of the modified coinsurance arrangement with FSRCI, FGL Insurance is required to pay FSRCI a portion of the net cost of equity option purchases and the proceeds from expirations related to the equity options which hedge the index credit feature of the reinsured FIA contracts. Accordingly, the payable to FSRCI is reflected in "Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities" as of the balance sheet date with changes in fair value reflected in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations. Credit Risk The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of non-performance by its counterparties on the call options and reflects assumptions regarding this non-performance risk in the fair value of the call options. The non-performance risk is the net counterparty exposure based on the fair value of the open contracts less collateral held. The Company maintains a policy of requiring all derivative contracts to be governed by an International Swaps and Derivatives Association (“ISDA”) Master Agreement. Information regarding the Company’s exposure to credit loss on the call options it holds is presented in the following table: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Counterparty Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a) Notional Amount Fair Value Collateral Net Credit Risk Notional Amount Fair Value Collateral Net Credit Risk Merrill Lynch A/*/A+ $ 3,164 $ 144 $ 105 $ 39 $ 2,302 $ 55 $ 10 $ 45 Deutsche Bank A-/A3/A- 972 32 32 — 1,620 46 12 34 Morgan Stanley */A1/A+ 1,556 82 87 (5 ) 2,952 87 58 29 Barclay's Bank A*+/A1/A- 2,163 73 74 (1 ) 1,389 39 — 39 Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce AA-/Aa3/A+ 2,459 82 83 (1 ) 1,623 49 48 1 Total $ 10,314 $ 413 $ 381 $ 32 $ 9,886 $ 276 $ 128 $ 148 (a) An * represents credit ratings that were not available. Collateral Agreements The Company is required to maintain minimum ratings as a matter of routine practice as part of its over-the-counter derivative agreements on ISDA forms. Under some ISDA agreements, the Company has agreed to maintain certain financial strength ratings. A downgrade below these levels provides the counterparty under the agreement the right to terminate the open derivative contracts between the parties, at which time any amounts payable by the Company or the counterparty would be dependent on the market value of the underlying derivative contracts. The Company’s current rating allows multiple counterparties the right to terminate ISDA agreements. No ISDA agreements have been terminated, although the counterparties have reserved the right to terminate the ISDA agreements at any time. In certain transactions, the Company and the counterparty have entered into a collateral support agreement requiring either party to post collateral when the net exposures exceed pre-determined thresholds. These thresholds vary by counterparty and credit rating. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , counterparties posted $381 and $128 of collateral, respectively, of which $276 and $118 is included in "Cash and cash equivalents" with an associated payable for this collateral included in "Other liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets . The remaining $105 and $10 of non-cash collateral was held by a third-party custodian and may not be sold or re-pledged, except in the event of default, and, therefore, is not included in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. This collateral generally consists of U.S. treasury bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Accordingly, the maximum amount of loss due to credit risk that the Company would incur if parties to the call options failed completely to perform according to the terms of the contracts was $32 and $148 at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. In June 2017, the Company began a program to reduce the negative interest cost associated with cash collateral posted from counterparties under various IDSA agreements by reinvesting derivative cash collateral. The Company is required to pay counterparties the effective federal funds rate each day for cash collateral posted to FGL for daily mark to market margin changes. The new program permits collateral cash received to be invested in short term Treasury securities and A1/P1 commercial paper which are included in "Cash and cash equivalents" in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company held 1,534 and 559 futures contracts at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The fair value of the futures contracts represents the cumulative unsettled variation margin (open trade equity, net of cash settlements). The Company provides cash collateral to the counterparties for the initial and variation margin on the futures contracts which is included in "Cash and cash equivalents" in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets. The amount of cash collateral held by the counterparties for such contracts was $7 and $3 at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Fair Value of Financial Instrum

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The Company’s measurement of fair value is based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability, which may include inherent risk, restrictions on the sale or use of an asset, or non-performance risk, which may include the Company’s own credit risk. The Company’s estimate of an exchange price is the price in an orderly transaction between market participants to sell the asset or transfer the liability (“exit price”) in the principal market, or the most advantageous market in the absence of a principal market, for that asset or liability, as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or receive a liability (“entry price”). The Company categorizes financial instruments carried at fair value into a three-level fair value hierarchy, based on the priority of inputs to the respective valuation technique. The three-level hierarchy for fair value measurement is defined as follows: Level 1 -Values are unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets accessible at the measurement date. Level 2 - Inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices from those willing to trade in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by market data for the term of the instrument. Such inputs include market interest rates and volatilities, spreads, and yield curves. Level 3 - Certain inputs are unobservable (supported by little or no market activity) and significant to the fair value measurement. Unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s best estimate of what hypothetical market participants would use to determine a transaction price for the asset or liability at the reporting date based on the best information available in the circumstances. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lower level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the investment. When a determination is made to classify an asset or liability within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, the determination is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement. Because certain securities trade in less liquid or illiquid markets with limited or no pricing information, the determination of fair value for these securities is inherently more difficult. However, Level 3 fair value investments may include, in addition to the unobservable or Level 3 inputs, observable components, which are components that are actively quoted or can be validated to market-based sources. The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments for which the disclosure of fair values is required, including financial assets and liabilities measured and carried at fair value on a recurring basis, with the exception of investment contracts, related party loans, portions of other invested assets and debt which are disclosed later within this footnote, was summarized according to the hierarchy previously described, as follows: September 30, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 885 $ — $ — $ 885 $ 885 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities — 2,711 174 2,885 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 883 95 978 978 Corporates — 11,616 1,114 12,730 12,730 Hybrids — 1,455 10 1,465 1,465 Municipals — 1,688 38 1,726 1,726 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 1,263 — 1,263 1,263 U.S. Government 75 32 — 107 107 Equity securities, available-for-sale 10 718 2 730 730 Derivative financial instruments — 413 — 413 413 Reinsurance related embedded derivative, included in other assets — 103 — 103 103 Other invested assets — — 16 16 16 Total financial assets at fair value $ 970 $ 20,882 $ 1,449 $ 23,301 $ 23,301 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 2,627 $ 2,627 $ 2,627 Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities — 15 — 15 15 Total financial liabilities at fair value $ — $ 15 $ 2,627 $ 2,642 $ 2,642 September 30, 2016 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 864 $ — $ — $ 864 $ 864 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities — 2,327 172 2,499 2,499 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 785 79 864 864 Corporates — 10,219 1,121 11,340 11,340 Hybrids — 1,386 — 1,386 1,386 Municipals — 1,676 41 1,717 1,717 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 1,362 — 1,362 1,362 U.S. Government 61 182 — 243 243 Equity securities available-for-sale 22 617 3 642 642 Derivative financial instruments — 276 — 276 276 Reinsurance related embedded derivative, included in other assets — 119 — 119 119 Other invested assets — — 34 34 34 Total financial assets at fair value $ 947 $ 18,949 $ 1,450 $ 21,346 $ 21,346 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 2,383 $ 2,383 $ 2,383 Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities — 11 — 11 11 Total financial liabilities at fair value $ — $ 11 $ 2,383 $ 2,394 $ 2,394 The carrying amounts of accrued investment income, and portions of other insurance liabilities, approximate fair value due to their short duration and, accordingly, they are not presented in the tables above. Valuation Methodologies Fixed Maturity Securities & Equity Securities The Company measures the fair value of its securities based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the security. The most appropriate valuation methodology is selected based on the specific characteristics of the fixed maturity or equity security, and the Company will then consistently apply the valuation methodology to measure the security’s fair value. The Company's fair value measurement is based on a market approach, which utilizes prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable securities. Sources of inputs to the market approach include a third-party pricing service, independent broker quotations, or pricing matrices. The Company uses observable and unobservable inputs in its valuation methodologies. Observable inputs include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers, and reference data. In addition, market indicators and industry and economic events are monitored and further market data will be acquired when certain thresholds are met. For certain security types, additional inputs may be used, or some of the inputs described above may not be applicable. The Company has an equity investment in a private business development company which is not traded on an exchange or valued by other sources such as analytics or brokers. The Company based the fair value of this investment on an estimated net asset value provided by the investee. Management did not make any adjustments to this valuation. The significant unobservable input used in the fair value measurement of equity securities available-for-sale for which the market approach valuation technique is employed is yields for comparable securities. Increases (decreases) in the yields would result in lower or higher, respectively, fair value measurements. For broker-quoted only securities, quotes from market makers or broker-dealers are obtained from sources recognized to be market participants. Management believes the broker quotes are prices at which trades could be executed based on historical trades executed at broker-quoted or slightly higher prices. The fair value of the Company's investment in mutual funds is based on the net asset value published by the respective mutual fund and represents the value the Company would have received if it withdrew its investment on the balance sheet date. The Company did not adjust prices received from third parties as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 . However, the Company does analyze the third-party valuation methodologies and its related inputs to perform assessments to determine the appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy. Derivative Financial Instruments The fair value of call option assets is based upon valuation pricing models, which represents what the Company would expect to receive or pay at the balance sheet date if it canceled the options, entered into offsetting positions, or exercised the options. Fair values for these instruments are determined internally, based on valuation pricing models which use market-observable inputs, including interest rates, yield curve volatilities, and other factors. The fair value of the reinsurance-related embedded derivative in the funds withheld reinsurance agreement with FSRCI is estimated based upon the fair value of the assets supporting the funds withheld from reinsurance liabilities. As the fair value of the assets is based on a quoted market price of similar assets (Level 2), the fair value of the embedded derivative is based on market-observable inputs and is classified as Level 2. The fair value of futures contracts represents the cumulative unsettled variation margin (open trade equity, net of cash settlements) which represents what the Company would expect to receive or pay at the balance sheet date if it canceled the futures contract or entered into offsetting positions. These contracts are classified as Level 1. The fair value measurement of the FIA embedded derivatives included in contractholder funds is determined through a combination of market observable information and significant unobservable inputs. The market observable inputs are the market value of option and interest swap rates. The significant unobservable inputs are the mortality multiplier, surrender rates, and non-performance spread. The mortality multiplier at September 30, 2017 and 2016 was applied to the Annuity 2000 mortality tables. Significant increases (decreases) in the market value of an option in isolation would result in a higher or lower, respectively, fair value measurement. Significant increases (decreases) in interest swap rates, mortality multiplier, surrender rates, or non-performance spread in isolation would result in a lower (higher) fair value measurement. Generally, a change in any one unobservable input would not directly result in a change in any other unobservable input. Other Invested Assets Fair value of our loan participation interest securities approximated the unpaid principal balance of the participation interest as of September 30, 2017 . In making this assessment, the Company considered the sufficiency of the underlying loan collateral, movements in the benchmark interest rate between origination date and September 30, 2017 , the primary market participant for these securities, and the short-term maturity of these loans (less than 1 year ). Fair value of our loan participation interest JSN Jewellery, Inc. is based upon a best estimate of the expected liquidation value of the underlying collateral. Fair value of the AnchorPath embedded derivative is based on an unobservable input, the net asset value of the AnchorPath fund at the balance sheet date. The embedded derivative is similar to a call option on the net asset value of the AnchorPath fund with a strike price of zero since FGL Insurance will not be required to make any additional payments at maturity of the fund-linked note in order to receive the net asset value of the AnchorPath fund on the maturity date. Therefore, the Black-Scholes model returns the net asset value of the AnchorPath fund as the fair value of the call option regardless of the values used for the other inputs to the option pricing model. The net asset value of the AnchorPath fund is provided by the fund manager at the end of each calendar month and represents the value an investor would receive if it withdrew its investment on the balance sheet date. Therefore, the key unobservable input used in the Black-Scholes model is the value of the AnchorPath fund. As the value of the AnchorPath fund increases or decreases, the fair value of the embedded derivative will increase or decrease. Fair value of foreign exchange derivatives and embedded derivatives, including CAD currency forward contracts, is based on the quoted USD/CAD exchange rates. Valuation Methodologies and Associated Inputs for Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value The following discussion outlines the methodologies and assumptions used to determine the fair value of our financial instruments not carried at fair value. Considerable judgment is required to develop these assumptions used to measure fair value. Accordingly, the estimates shown are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that would be realized in a one-time, current market exchange of all of our financial instruments. Commercial Mortgage Loans The fair value of commercial mortgage loans is established using a discounted cash flow method based on credit rating, maturity and future income. This yield-based approach is sourced from our third-party vendor. The ratings for mortgages in good standing are based on property type, location, market conditions, occupancy, debt service coverage, loan-to-value, quality of tenancy, borrower, and payment record. The carrying value for impaired mortgage loans is based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral-dependent. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our commercial mortgage loans are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Policy Loans (included within Other Invested Assets) Fair values for policy loans are estimated from a discounted cash flow analysis, using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar credit risk. Loans with similar characteristics are aggregated for purposes of the calculations. Related Party Loans - HGI Energy Loan The HGI Energy loan's (discussed in "Note 14. Related Party Transactions" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements ) fair value is based on the discounted cash flows of the loan. The discount rate was set by observing the market rate on other debt instruments of the issuer with an adjustment for liquidity. Investment Contracts Investment contracts include deferred annuities, FIAs, indexed universal life policies ("IULs") and immediate annuities. The fair value of deferred annuity, FIA, and IUL contracts is based on their cash surrender value (i.e. the cost the Company would incur to extinguish the liability) as these contracts are generally issued without an annuitization date. The fair value of immediate annuities contracts is derived by calculating a new fair value interest rate using the updated yield curve and treasury spreads as of the respective reporting date. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , this resulted in lower fair value reserves relative to the carrying value. The Company is not required to, and has not, estimated the fair value of the liabilities under contracts that involve significant mortality or morbidity risks, as these liabilities fall within the definition of insurance contracts that are exceptions from financial instruments that require disclosures of fair value. Debt The fair value of debt is based on quoted market prices. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our outstanding debt are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. Our revolving credit facility debt is classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy, and the estimated fair value reflects the carrying value as the revolver has no maturity date. Quantitative information regarding significant unobservable inputs used for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of financial instruments carried at fair value as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows: Fair Value at Range (Weighted average) September 30, 2017 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input(s) September 30, 2017 Assets Asset-backed securities $ 173 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 92.00% - 102.50% Asset-backed securities 1 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.88% - 99.88% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 92 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 99.50% - 123.84% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 3 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.63% - 99.63% Corporates 827 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 61.00% - 112.51% Corporates 287 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 94.17% - 116.19% Hybrids 10 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 100.42% - 100.42% Municipals 38 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 112.17% - 112.17% Equity securities available-for-sale (Salus preferred equity) 2 Income-approach Yield 5.00% Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 16 Black scholes model Market value of AnchorPath fund 100.00% Total $ 1,449 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,627 Discounted Cash Flow Market value of option 0.00% - 27.81% SWAP rates 2.00% - 2.29% Mortality multiplier 80.00% - 80.00% Surrender rates 0.50% - 75.00% Non-performance spread 0.25% - 0.25% Future option budget 1.13% - 5.57% Total liabilities at fair value $ 2,627 Fair Value at Range (Weighted average) September 30, 2016 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input(s) September 30, 2016 Assets Asset-backed securities $ 144 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 97.54% - 101.55% Asset-backed securities 9 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 98.75% Asset-backed securities (Salus CLO equity tranche) 19 Third-Party Valuation Offered quotes 28.37% Discount rate 15.00% RSH Recovery 5.50% Other loan recoveries 0.00% - 100.00% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 75 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 104.31% - 122.19% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 4 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 98.41% - 98.41% Corporates 920 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 50.00% - 118.33% Corporates 201 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.00% - 150.23% Municipals 41 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 119.04% - 119.04% Equity securities available-for-sale (Salus preferred equity) 3 Market-approach Yield 11.00% RSH Recovery 5.50% Discount rate 15.00% Salus CLO Equity 28.37% Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 13 Black-Scholes Model Market value of AnchorPath fund 100.00% Loan participations - Other 2 Market Pricing Offered quotes 100.00% Loan participations - JSN Jewellery Inc. 17 Liquidation value – 52.5% Recovery Estimate Recovery estimate (wind-down costs) 49.93% - 56.67% Loan participation - Radioshack ("RSH") Corporation 2 Liquidation value – 5% Recovery Estimate Recovery estimate (wind-down costs) 1.36% - 14.28% Total $ 1,450 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,383 Discounted Cash Flow Market value of option 0.00% - 26.64% SWAP rates (discount rates) 1.18% - 1.46% Mortality multiplier 80.00% - 80.00% Surrender rates 0.50% - 75.00% Non-performance spread 0.25% - 0.25% Future option budget 1.15% - 5.57% Total liabilities at fair value $ 2,383 Changes in unrealized losses (gains), net in the Company’s FIA embedded derivatives are included in "Benefits and other changes in policy reserves" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The following tables summarize changes to the Company’s financial instruments carried at fair value and classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. This summary excludes any impact of amortization of VOBA and DAC. The gains and losses below may include changes in fair value due in part to observable inputs that are a component of the valuation methodology. Year ended September 30, 2017 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 172 $ (2 ) $ 3 $ 152 $ — $ (40 ) $ (111 ) $ 174 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 79 — 1 18 — (1 ) (2 ) 95 Corporates 1,121 (1 ) (29 ) 189 (20 ) (109 ) (37 ) 1,114 Hybrids — — — 10 — — — 10 Municipals 41 — (2 ) — — (1 ) — 38 Equity securities available-for-sale 3 (2 ) 1 — — — — 2 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 13 3 — — — — — 16 Loan participations 21 (2 ) 1 — — (20 ) — — Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,450 $ (4 ) $ (25 ) $ 369 $ (20 ) $ (171 ) $ (150 ) $ 1,449 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2017 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2016 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 38 $ (12 ) $ 3 $ 141 $ — $ (3 ) $ 5 $ 172 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 144 — 4 — — (3 ) (66 ) 79 Corporates 964 — 32 154 (3 ) (26 ) — 1,121 Municipals 39 — 2 — — — — 41 Equity securities available-for-sale 9 — — — (6 ) — — 3 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 10 3 — — — — — 13 Loan participations 119 (21 ) 9 54 — (140 ) — 21 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,323 $ (30 ) $ 50 $ 349 $ (9 ) $ (172 ) $ (61 ) $ 1,450 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2016 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2015 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3 (a) Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 74 $ (37 ) $ 3 $ 73 $ (15 ) $ (31 ) $ (29 ) $ 38 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 83 — (2 ) 63 — — — 144 Corporates 834 4 10 202 (1 ) (61 ) (24 ) 964 Municipals 37 — 2 — — — — 39 Equity securities available-for-sale 40 (30 ) (1 ) — — — — 9 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 11 (1 ) — — — — — 10 Loan participations 213 (39 ) (5 ) 88 — (138 ) — 119 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,292 $ (103 ) $ 7 $ 426 $ (16 ) $ (230 ) $ (53 ) $ 1,323 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2015 were exclusively to Level 2. The following tables provide the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments that are carried on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at amounts other than fair value, summarized according to the fair value hierarchy previously described. September 30, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Estimated Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Commercial mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 552 $ 552 $ 547 Policy loans, included in other invested assets — — 14 14 17 Related party loans — — 71 71 71 Total $ — $ — $ 637 $ 637 $ 635 Liabilities Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 16,076 $ 16,076 $ 18,165 Debt — 309 105 414 405 Total $ — $ 309 $ 16,181 $ 16,490 $ 18,570 September 30, 2016 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Estimated Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Commercial mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 614 $ 614 $ 595 Policy loans, included in other invested assets — — 13 13 14 Related party loans — — 71 71 71 Total $ — $ — $ 698 $ 698 $ 680 Liabilities Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 14,884 $ 14,884 $ 16,868 Debt — 300 100 400 400 Total $ — $ 300 $ 14,984 $ 15,284 $ 17,268 The following table includes assets that have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy as the fair value of these investments is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. For further discussion about this adoption see “Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies” to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements . Carrying Value After Measurement September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Equity securities available-for-sale $ 43 $ 41 Limited partnership investment, included in other invested assets 152 12 The Company reviews the fair value hierarchy classifications each reporting period. Changes in the observability of the valuation attributes may result in a reclassification of certain financial assets or liabilities. Such reclassifications are reported as transfers in and out of Level 3, or between other levels, at the beginning fair value for the reporting period in which the changes occur. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the year ended September 30, 2017 . There were no transfers between Level 1 into Level 2 for the year ended September 30, 2016 . There were no transfers between Level 1 into Level 2 for the year ended September 30, 2015 reflecting the level of market activity in these instruments. The transfers into and out of Level 3 were related to changes in the primary pricing source and changes in the observability of external information used in determining the fair value. Accordingly, the Company’s assessment resulted in gross transfers into Level 3 with valuation of $128 related to asset-backed, commercial mortgage-backed and corporate securities and gross transfers out of level 3 with valuation of $278 related to asset-backed, commercial mortgage-backed, and corporate securities during the year ended September 30, 2017 . The Company’s assessment resulted in gross transfers into level 3 with valuation of $97 related to asset-backed, corporate and hybrid securities and gross transfers out of level 3 with valuation of $159 related to asset-backed, commercial mortgage-backed, corporate, hybrid and residential mortgage-backed securities during the year ended September 30, 2016 . The Company’s assessment resulted in gross transfers out of Level 3 of $53 related to asset-backed and corporate securities during the year ended September 30, 2015 .

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets Information regarding VOBA and DAC which includes deferred sales inducement, is as follows: VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 19 $ 1,007 $ 1,026 Deferrals — 336 336 Adjustments Unlocking 32 (2 ) 30 Interest 11 46 57 Amortization (65 ) (215 ) (280 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment gains 3 (43 ) (40 ) Balance at September 30, 2017 $ — $ 1,129 $ 1,129 Accumulated amortization $ 418 VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 187 $ 801 $ 988 Deferrals — 350 350 Adjustments Unlocking 25 2 27 Interest 11 34 45 Amortization (41 ) (85 ) (126 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment gains (163 ) (95 ) (258 ) Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 19 $ 1,007 $ 1,026 Accumulated amortization $ 396 VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2014 $ 59 $ 456 $ 515 Deferrals — 317 317 Adjustments Unlocking 19 4 23 Interest 12 22 34 Amortization (68 ) (53 ) (121 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment losses 165 55 220 Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 187 $ 801 $ 988 Accumulated amortization $ 391 Amortization of VOBA and DAC is based on the historical, current and future expected gross margins or profits recognized, including investment gains and losses. The interest accrual rate utilized to calculate the accretion of interest on VOBA ranged from 4% to 5% . The adjustment for unrealized net investment losses (gains) represents the amount of VOBA and DAC that would have been amortized if such unrealized gains and losses had been recognized. This is referred to as the “shadow adjustments” as the additional amortization is reflected in AOCI rather than the Consolidated Statement of Operations. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , the VOBA balance included cumulative adjustments for net unrealized investment gains of $159 and $162 , respectively, and the DAC balances included cumulative adjustments for net unrealized investment gains of $139 and $96 , respectively. The above DAC balances include $106 and $86 of deferred sales inducements, net of shadow adjustments, as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The weighted average amortization period for VOBA is approximately 5.3 years . Estimated amortization expense for VOBA in future fiscal periods is as follows: Estimated Amortization Expense Fiscal Year VOBA 2018 $ 21 2019 21 2020 19 2021 16 2022 14 Thereafter 68

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt In March 2013, FGL's wholly-owned subsidiary, FGLH, issued $300 aggregate principal amount of its 6.375% senior notes (“Notes Offering”) due April 1, 2021, at par value, which FGLH became eligible to redeem after April 1, 2016. Interest payments are due semi-annually, April 1 and October 1, commencing October 1, 2013. In connection with the Notes Offering, FGL capitalized $10 of debt issue costs. These fees were fully amortized as of September 30, 2016. These fees were amortized using the straight-line method, which approximated the effective yield method over the term of the debt. On August 26, 2014, FGLH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of FGL, as borrower, and the Company as guarantor, entered into a three -year $150 unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Credit Agreement”) with certain lenders and RBC Capital Markets and Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC ("Credit Suisse"), acting as joint lead arrangers. The loan proceeds from the Credit Agreement may be used for working capital and general corporate purposes. During July 2017, the terms of the Credit Agreement were extended through August 26, 2018. In connection with entering in to the Credit Agreement, FGL capitalized $4 of debt issue costs, which are classified as “Other assets” in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are fully amortized as of September 30, 2017 . On September 30, 2016, the Company drew $100 on the revolver, and in March 2017, the Company drew an additional $5 . The total drawn as of September 30, 2017 was $105 . Various financing options are available within the credit facility, including overnight and term based borrowing. In each case, a margin is ascribed based on the Debt to Capitalization ratio of the Company. The $105 and $100 drawn balances on the revolver carried interest rates equal to 4.24% and 5.50% , as of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , respectively. As of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , the amount available to be drawn on the revolver was $45 and $50 , respectively. The Company's outstanding debt as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 is as follows: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Debt $ 300 $ 300 Revolving credit facility 105 100 The interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs of the Company's debt for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Interest Expense Amortization Interest Expense Amortization Interest Expense Amortization Debt $ 19 $ — $ 19 $ 2 $ 19 $ 4 Revolving credit facility 4 1 — 1 — 1

Equity

Equity	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Equity	Equity Preferred Stock FGL's Board of Directors has the authority, without further action by our shareholders, to issue up to 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series and to fix the designation, powers, preferences and the relative participating, optional or other special rights, and the qualifications, limitations and restrictions of each series, including dividend rights, dividend rates, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption, liquidation preferences and the number of shares constituting any series. Currently, no shares of our authorized preferred stock are outstanding. Share Repurchases On September 2, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 500 thousand shares of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock over the next twelve months. As of June 30, 2015, the share repurchase program was completed. The Company's share repurchase activity is shown in the table below. Shares (in thousands) Total Cost Shares purchased pursuant to the repurchase program 500 $ 11 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan 12 — Total shares of common stock at completion of repurchase program as of June 30, 2015 512 $ 11 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended December 31, 2015 22 1 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended March 31, 2016 3 — Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended December 31, 2016 28 1 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended March 31, 2017 4 — Total shares of common stock repurchased as of September 30, 2017 569 $ 13 Subsequent to the Company's repurchase of shares, HRG indirectly held 47,000 thousand shares of FGL's outstanding common stock, representing an 80% interest at September 30, 2017 . Dividends The Company declared the following cash dividends during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015: Date Declared Date Paid Date Shareholders of record Shareholders of record (in thousands) Cash Dividend declared (per share) Total cash paid November 18, 2014 December 15, 2014 December 1, 2014 58,279 $0.065 $4 February 10, 2015 March 9, 2015 February 23, 2015 57,975 $0.065 $4 May 1, 2015 June 1, 2015 May 18, 2015 57,932 $0.065 $4 July 31, 2015 August 31, 2015 August 17, 2015 57,976 $0.065 $4 November 12, 2015 December 14, 2015 November 30, 2015 58,144 $0.065 $4 February 2, 2016 March 7, 2016 February 22, 2016 58,210 $0.065 $4 April 28, 2016 May 30, 2016 May 16, 2016 58,211 $0.065 $4 August 1, 2016 September 6, 2016 August 22, 2016 58,211 $0.065 $4 November 10, 2016 December 12, 2016 November 28, 2016 58,245 $0.065 $4 February 2, 2017 March 6, 2017 February 21, 2017 58,308 $0.065 $4 May 1, 2017 June 5, 2017 May 22, 2017 58,315 $0.065 $4 July 27, 2017 August 28, 2017 August 14 , 2017 58,316 $0.065 $4 On November 9, 2017 , FGL’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.065 per share. The dividend will be paid on December 11, 2017 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 27, 2017 . Restricted Net Assets of Subsidiaries FGLH’s equity in restricted net assets of consolidated subsidiaries was approximately $2,108 as of September 30, 2017 representing 94% of FGLH’s consolidated stockholder’s equity as of September 30, 2017 and consisted of net assets of FGLH which were restricted as to transfer to FGL in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances under regulatory restrictions.

Stock Compensation

Stock Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Compensation	Stock Compensation On November 7, 2013, FGL’s Board of Directors adopted a long term stock-based incentive plan (the “FGL 2013 Stock Incentive Plan” or the “Omnibus Plan”) under which certain officers, employees, directors and consultants are eligible to receive equity based awards. The Omnibus Plan was approved by the stockholder on November 19, 2013, became effective on December 12, 2013 and expires in December 2023. FGL’s Compensation Committee approved the granting of awards under the Omnibus Plan to certain employees, officers and directors (other than the members of the Compensation Committee). In addition, FGL’s Board of Directors approved the granting of awards to members of FGL’s Compensation Committee (the “Compensation Committee Awards”). The Compensation Committee Awards were not made under the Omnibus Plan; however, these awards will be construed and administered as if subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan. In February 2015, the Omnibus Plan was amended to permit the members of FGL’s Compensation Committee to receive awards thereunder. FGL’s Board of Directors and stockholder also approved the granting of unrestricted common shares to its directors in lieu of cash compensation at the election of each individual director (the “Unrestricted Share Awards”). The Omnibus Plan, Compensation Committee Awards and the Unrestricted Share Awards are collectively referred to as the “FGL Plans”. Stock options, restricted stock and unrestricted stock awarded under the FGL Plans are accounted for as equity awards. As of the date the stock awards are approved and communicated to the recipient, the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes options valuation methodology, and the fair value of other stock awards is based upon the market value of the stock. The fair value of the awards is expensed over the service period, which generally corresponds to the vesting period, and is recognized as an increase to Additional paid-in capital in stockholders’ equity. At this time, FGL plans to issue new shares to satisfy stock option exercises, but may use treasury shares acquired under the repurchase program authorized on September 2, 2014. In fourth quarter 2016, FGL decided to settle the Performance Restricted Stock Unit (“PRSU”) awards granted under the FGL Plans in cash upon vesting and, therefore, reclassified these awards from equity to Other Liabilities. The liability for the PRSUs was valued at fair value (market value of the underlying stock) upon reclassification which resulted in the recognition of additional compensation cost of $3 . The PRSUs became fully vested as of September 30, 2016 with payment made in November 2016 based on the fair value of the award at the time of settlement. FGL’s principal subsidiary, FGLH, sponsors stock-based incentive plans and dividend equivalent plans (“DEPs”) for its employees (the “FGLH Plans”). Awards under the FGLH Plans are based on the value of the common stock of FGLH. In 2013, FGLH determined that all equity awards will be settled in cash when exercised and therefore are classified as liability plans. For these awards, the settlement value is classified as a liability, in "Other liabilities", on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the liability is adjusted to the current fair value through net income at the end of each reporting period, which causes volatility in net income (loss) as a result of changes in the fair value of FGLH’s stock. The fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes options valuation methodology and the fair value of restricted stock units is based upon the fair value of FGLH’s stock. In November 2013, the FGLH plans were frozen and no new awards will be granted under these plans. Outstanding awards will be permitted to vest in accordance with the award agreements and will be cash settled upon vesting or exercise. The Merger Agreement with CF Corp. provides for accelerated vesting of all unvested awards under the FGL Plans and FGLH Plans and the automatic conversion into a right to receive a cash payment in an amount pursuant to the Merger Agreement for all vested and unvested awards under these Plans. The Company recognized total stock compensation expense related to the FGL Plans and FGLH Plans as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 FGL Plans Stock options $ — $ — $ 1 Restricted shares 2 2 6 Performance restricted stock units 2 10 3 4 12 10 FGLH Plans Stock Incentive Plan - stock options 1 — 1 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan - stock options 2 1 5 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan - restricted stock units — — 2 2012 DEP — — 1 3 1 9 Total stock compensation expense 7 13 19 Related tax benefit 2 5 7 Net stock compensation expense $ 5 $ 8 $ 12 The stock compensation expense is included in "Acquisition and operating expenses, net of deferrals" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Total compensation expense related to the FGL Plans and FGLH Plans not yet recognized as of September 30, 2017 and the weighted-average period over which this expense will be recognized are as follows: Unrecognized Compensation Weighted Average Recognition FGL Plans Stock options $ — 1 Restricted shares 1 1 Performance restricted stock units 15 2 Total unrecognized stock compensation expense $ 16 1 FGL Plans FGL’s Compensation Committee is authorized to grant up to 2,838 thousand equity awards under the FGL Plans. At September 30, 2017 , 525 thousand equity awards are available for future issuance under the FGL Plans. FGL granted 47 thousand , 119 thousand , and 206 thousand stock options to a certain officers, directors, other key employees and Compensation Committee members in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These stock options vest in equal installments over a period of three years and expire on the seventh anniversary of the grant date. The total fair value of the options granted in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $0 , $0 , and $1 respectively. On March 31, 2015, the Company entered into an agreement with its former Chief Executive Officer in connection with his resignation pursuant to which the vesting for certain FGL and FGLH equity awards to the former Chief Executive Officer were accelerated. The former Chief Executive Officer forfeited two-thirds of the performance restricted stock units granted in fiscal year 2014, and all other previously awarded equity grants became vested as of March 31, 2015. The exercise date of the outstanding stock options was extended to December 31, 2015. No other terms of the equity awards were modified. The Company recognized total incremental compensation expense of $2 as a result of these modifications. At September 30, 2017 , the intrinsic value of stock options outstanding, exercisable and vested or expected to vest was $3 , $2 and $3 , respectively. At September 30, 2017 , the weighted average remaining contractual term of stock options outstanding, exercisable and vested or expected to vest was 4 years , 4 years and 4 years , respectively. During the year ended September 30, 2017 , the intrinsic value of stock options exercised, total cash received upon exercise and the related tax benefit was $0 , $0 , and $0 , respectively. During the year ended September 30, 2016 , the intrinsic value of stock options exercised, total cash received upon exercise and the related tax benefit realized was $0 , $2 , and $0 , respectively. During the year ended September 30, 2015 the intrinsic value of stock options exercised, total cash received upon exercise and the related tax benefit was $1 , $2 , and $0 , respectively. A summary of FGL’s outstanding stock options as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the period, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Stock Option Awards Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2016 346 $ 22.40 Granted 47 23.35 Exercised (15 ) 18.61 Forfeited or expired (14 ) 20.91 Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2017 364 22.74 Exercisable at September 30, 2017 203 21.21 Vested or projected to vest at September 30, 2017 364 22.74 The following assumptions were used in the determination of the grant date fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and based on the value of FGL's common stock for stock options granted during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average fair value per options granted $2.57 $1.01 $4.96 Risk-free interest rate 1.11% 0.42% 1.41%-1.50% Assumed dividend yield 1.12% 1.14% 1.18%-1.19% Expected option term 2.0 years 0.5 years 4.5 years Volatility 20.00% 14.55% 25.00% The following assumptions were used in the determination of the grant date fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model for the former Chief Executive Officer's modified stock options and based on the value of FGL's common stock: Weighted average fair value per option modified $2.53 Risk-free interest rate 0.20% Assumed dividend yield 1.18% Expected option term 0.75 years Volatility 25.00% The dividend yield is based on the expected dividend rate during the expected life of the option. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. For awards granted in 2017 and 2016, expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of FGL's stock prices after the announcement of a then-anticipated merger transaction as well as the estimated timing of the anticipated closing of a transaction. For awards granted or modified in 2015, expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of FGL’s stock price from the date of listing on the NYSE. For awards granted in 2017 and 2016, the expected life of the options granted represents the period of time from the grant date to the estimated closing date of a then-anticipated merger transaction, reflecting the midpoint of possible scenarios. For awards granted or modified in 2015, the expected life of the options granted represents the weighted-average period of time from the grant date to the date of exercise, expiration or cancellation based upon a simplified method as the Company lacked sufficient historical data due to the recent implementation of the FGL Plans. FGL granted 29 thousand , 26 thousand , and 173 thousand restricted shares to certain officers, directors, other key employees and Compensation Committee members in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. These shares vest in equal installments over a period of three years . FGL granted 12 thousand restricted shares to an officer in 2015 that vest over the period of one year. In 2015, FGL also granted 140 thousand restricted shares to certain directors which vest in three tranches; 20% on the first anniversary of the grant date; 50% on the second anniversary of the grant date; and 30% on the third anniversary of the grant date. The total fair value of the restricted shares granted in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $1 , $1 , and $7 , respectively. On March 18, 2015, the expected requisite service periods for the 140 thousand restricted shares granted to certain directors were completed resulting in expense acceleration under the terms of the original awards due to their resignation from the Company’s Board and all related committee positions of the two grantees. The Company recognized additional compensation expense of $3 during 2015 as a result of the related equity compensation expense acceleration. The restricted shares are entitled to any cash dividends paid on FGL’s stock prior to vesting of the restricted shares. The cash dividends are held by FGL until the shares become vested and are paid to the recipient at that time or are forfeited if the restricted shares do not vest. A summary of FGL’s nonvested restricted shares outstanding as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the year then ended, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Restricted Stock Awards Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted shares outstanding at September 30, 2016 154 $ 22.91 Granted 29 23.35 Vested (90 ) 21.85 Forfeited (5 ) 22.73 Nonvested restricted shares outstanding at September 30, 2017 88 24.14 FGL granted 487 thousand , 0 , and 32 thousand Performance Restricted Stock units ("PRSUs") to officers in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. The total fair value of the PRSUs granted in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , assuming attainment of the target performance level in each year was $13 , $0 , and $1 , respectively. The 2017 units vest on September 30, 2019, contingent on the satisfaction of performance criteria and on the officer's continued employment unless otherwise noted in the agreement. The fair value of the awards is expensed over the service period, which generally corresponds to the vesting period. PRSUs subject to vesting are adjusted based on FGL's financial yearly performance, which is evaluated on two non-GAAP measures: (1) adjusted operating income, and (2) book value per share excluding AOCI. Depending on the performance results for each year, the ultimate payout of PRSUs could range from 70% to 200% of the target award for each year. One-third of the award is earned based on each year’s results. Based on the results achieved in 2017, a total of 78 thousand additional PRSUs were earned, subject to the satisfaction of the service requirement noted above, and the total fair value of these PRSUs was $2 . If the officer elects to retire on or after reaching age 60 and completing at least five years of continuous service with the Company, the officer will become vested in the PRSUs for the performance years prior to the year in which the retirement occurs and will forfeit the PRSUs for the performance year in which the retirement occurs and later performance years. Compensation expense for the awards granted to officers who are or will be eligible to elect early vesting under this retirement provision is recognized over a shorter service period which assumes the officer elects retirement when eligible. The PRSUs granted in 2017 can only be settled in cash and, therefore, are classified as a liability plan. For these awards, the settlement value is classified as a liability in "Other liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the liability is adjusted to the current fair value (market value of the underlying stock) through net income at the end of each reporting period, which will cause volatility in net income (loss) as a result of changes in the fair value of FGL’s stock. At September 30, 2017 , the liability for PRSUs of $18 was based on the number of units expected to vest, the elapsed portion of the service period and the fair value of FGL’s common stock on that date which was $31.05 . PRSUs granted in 2014 and 2015 were adjusted based on FGL's yearly financial performance, which was evaluated on two non-GAAP measures: (1) pre-tax adjusted operating income, and (2) return on equity. Depending on the performance results for each year, the ultimate payout of these PRSUs could range from zero to 200% of the target award for each year. One-half of the award was earned based on each year’s results for the awards granted in 2015. One-third of the award was earned based on each year's results for the awards granted in 2014. Based on the results achieved in 2016, 2015, and 2014, a total of 11 thousand , 63 thousand , 14 thousand , and 44 thousand additional PRSUs were earned during 2017 , 2016 , 2015 , and 2014, respectively, and the total fair value of the additional PRSUs earned in 2017 , 2016 , 2015 , and 2014, was $0 , $1 , $0 , and $1 , respectively. In fourth quarter 2016, FGL decided to settle the PRSU awards granted in 2014 and 2015 in cash upon vesting and, therefore, reclassified these awards from equity to Other Liabilities. The liability for the PRSUs was valued at fair value (market value of the underlying stock) upon reclassification. A total of 634 thousand PRSUs became fully vested as of September 30, 2016 with a total cash payment of $15 made in November 2016 based on the fair value of the award at the time of settlement, which was $23.30 per PRSU. A summary of nonvested PRSUs outstanding as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the period then ended, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Performance Restricted Stock Units (PRSUs) Shares Weighted Average Grant PRSUs outstanding at September 30, 2016 — $ — Granted 576 23.72 Vested (11 ) 17.82 Forfeited or expired — — PRSUs outstanding at September 30, 2017 565 27.65 In 2015, FGL also granted 9 thousand unrestricted shares to certain directors in payment for services rendered. Total fair value of the unrestricted shares on the grant date was $0 . FGLH Plans Stock options issued under the FGLH Plans vest in three equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date and expire on the seventh anniversary of the grant date. The FGLH plans were frozen in November 2013 and, therefore, no stock options were issued under these plans during the years ended September 30, 2017, 2016 and 2015. A summary of FGLH's outstanding stock options as of September 30, 2017 and related activity during the year then ended is as follows (share amount in thousands): FGLH Stock Option Awards Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2016 82 $ 44.82 Granted — — Exercised (12 ) 45.76 Forfeited or expired — — Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2017 70 44.66 Vested and exercisable at September 30, 2017 70 44.66 At September 30, 2017 , and 2016 , the liability for vested or expected to vest stock options was based on the fair values of the outstanding options. The following assumptions were used in the determination of these fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and based on the value of FGLH's common stock: 2017 2016 Weighted average stock option fair value $121.82 $78.62 FGLH common stock fair value $166.81 $123.76 FGL common stock fair value $31.05 $23.19 Risk-free interest rate 1.04% 0.26% Assumed dividend yield 1.07% 1.12% Expected option term 0.25 years 0.25 years Volatility 5.0% 15.0% The primary input used in the determination of the fair value of FGLH's common stock is the value of the Company's common stock and a discount for lack of liquidity of 5.0% . The dividend yield is based on the expected dividend rate during the expected life of the option. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at September 30, 2017 and 2016 . Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of FGL’s stock prices after the announcement of the anticipated merger transaction with CF Corp for 2017 and an anticipated merger transaction for 2016. The expected life of the options granted represents the period of time from the reporting date to the estimated closing date of the anticipated merger transactions. At September 30, 2017 , the intrinsic value of stock options outstanding, exercisable and vested or expected to vest was $9 , $9 and $9 , respectively. At September 30, 2017 , the weighted average remaining contractual term of stock options outstanding, exercisable and vested or expected to vest was 2 years , 2 years and 2 years , respectively. The intrinsic value of stock options exercised and the amount of cash paid upon exercise during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $1 , $0 , and $9 , respectively. The amount of cash paid upon vesting for restricted stock units during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $0 , $2 , and $2 , respectively. FGLH also granted dividend equivalent awards that permit holders of FGLH’s stock option and restricted stock awards to receive a payment in cash in an amount equal to the ordinary dividends declared and paid or debt service payments to HRG by FGLH in each calendar year starting in the year in which the dividend equivalent is granted through the year immediately prior to the year in which the dividend equivalent award vests, divided by the total number of common shares outstanding. Dividend equivalent awards granted in December 2012 vested on March 31, 2016. FGLH determined that it was probable the dividend equivalent awards would vest and recognized compensation expense ratably over the dividend equivalent vesting periods. The amount of cash paid upon vesting of dividend equivalent awards during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 was $0 , $1 and $1 , respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes FGL is a U.S. taxpayer and does not file income tax returns in any foreign jurisdiction other than Puerto Rico. FGL’s non-life subsidiaries file as part of HRG’s consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return. FGL’s insurance company subsidiaries file their own consolidated U.S. Federal life insurance tax return. The income tax liabilities of the FGL members of the consolidated HRG return are calculated using the separate return method. Income tax (expense) benefit is calculated based upon the following components of income before income taxes: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Pretax income (loss): United States $ 333 $ 153 $ 182 Outside the United States — — — Total pretax income $ 333 $ 153 $ 182 The components of income tax (expense) benefit are as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Current: Federal $ (114 ) $ (5 ) $ (14 ) State — — — Total current $ (114 ) $ (5 ) $ (14 ) Deferred: Federal $ 4 $ (51 ) $ (50 ) State — — — Total deferred $ 4 $ (51 ) $ (50 ) Income tax (expense)/benefit $ (110 ) $ (56 ) $ (64 ) The difference between income taxes expected at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate of 35% and reported income tax (expense) benefit is summarized as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Expected income tax (expense)/benefit at Federal statutory rate $ (117 ) $ (54 ) $ (64 ) Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets 1 69 (1 ) Amortization of low income housing tax credits (4 ) (2 ) (1 ) Benefit on LIHTC under proportional amortization method 5 3 1 Write off of expired capital loss carryforward — (73 ) — Dividends received deduction 4 1 2 Other 1 — (1 ) Reported income tax (expense)/benefit $ (110 ) $ (56 ) $ (64 ) Effective tax rate 33 % 37 % 35 % For the year ended September 30, 2017 , the Company’s effective tax rate is 33% . The effective tax rate was positively impacted by a valuation allowance release within the non-life companies and favorable permanent adjustments, including low income housing tax credits and dividends received deduction. For the year ended September 30, 2016 , the Company’s effective tax rate was 37% . The negative impact of the valuation allowance expense of the non-life companies was partially offset by the net impact of positive permanent adjustments, including low income housing tax credits and dividends received deduction. For the year ended September 30, 2016 , the remaining unutilized life company capital loss carryforwards deferred tax assets expired and were written off, resulting in $73 in deferred income tax expense which was entirely offset by a valuation allowance release of the same amount. For the year ended September 30, 2015 , the Company’s effective tax rate was 35% . The impact of valuation allowance expense was offset by the net impact of positive permanent adjustments. For the year ended September 30, 2017 , the Company recorded a net valuation allowance release of $1 related to FGL’s non-life companies). For the year ended September 30, 2016 , the Company recorded net valuation allowance release of $69 (comprised of a full year valuation allowance release of $74 related to the life insurance companies, offset by a net increase to valuation allowance of $5 related to FGL’s non-life companies). During the year ended September 30, 2016 , the remaining unutilized life company capital loss carryforward deferred tax assets expired and were written off, resulting in $73 in deferred income tax expense. Most of the valuation allowance release during the year was attributable to this write-off. For the year ended September 30, 2015 , the Company recorded net valuation allowance expense of $1 (comprised of a full year valuation allowance release of $4 related to the life insurance companies, offset by a net increase to valuation allowance of $5 related to FGL’s non-life companies). The Company records tax (expense) benefit that results from a change in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) directly to OCI. Tax expense recorded directly to OCI includes deferred tax expense arising from a change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities and the tax-effects of other income items that are recorded to OCI. Changes in valuation allowance that are solely due to a deferred tax liability related to the unrealized gain on an available-for-sale security are allocated to other comprehensive income in accordance with ASC 740-10-45-20, "Income Taxes: Other Presentation Matters". For the year ended September 30, 2017 , the Company recorded $56 in deferred tax expense to OCI. An excess tax benefit is the realized tax benefit related to the amount of deductible compensation cost reported on an employer’s tax return for equity instruments in excess of the compensation cost for those instruments recognized for financial reporting purposes. The Company adopted ASU-2016-09 (Stock Compensation) effective October 1, 2015. ASU-2016-09 eliminates the requirement for excess tax benefits to be recorded as additional paid-in capital when realized. For the year ended September 30, 2017 , FGL recorded all excess tax benefits in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as a component of current income tax expense in accordance with the newly adopted guidance. The following table is a summary of the components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss, credit and capital loss carryforwards $ 91 $ 93 Insurance reserves and claim related adjustments 601 511 Investments — — Other 75 44 Valuation allowance (49 ) (51 ) Total deferred tax assets $ 718 $ 597 Deferred tax liabilities: Value of business acquired $ — $ (7 ) Investments (456 ) (312 ) Deferred acquisition costs (316 ) (277 ) Other (8 ) (11 ) Total deferred tax liabilities $ (780 ) $ (607 ) Net deferred tax assets and (liabilities) $ (62 ) $ (10 ) At September 30, 2017 , the Company’s valuation allowance of $49 consisted of a valuation allowance of $0 on life company deferred tax assets and a full valuation allowance of $49 on FGL’s non−life insurance net deferred taxes. At September 30, 2016 , the Company’s valuation allowance of $51 consisted of a valuation allowance of $0 on life company deferred tax assets and a full valuation allowance of $51 on FGL’s non−life insurance net deferred taxes. The life company's remaining capital loss carryforwards expired on December 31, 2015, and the capital loss carryforward deferred tax assets and related valuation allowance were written off at that time. The Company maintains a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets of its non-life insurance company subsidiaries. The non-life insurance company subsidiaries have a history of losses and insufficient sources of future income necessary to recognize any portion of their deferred tax assets. All other deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realized based on expectations regarding future taxable income and considering all other available evidence, both positive and negative. The net operating losses ("NOLs"), capital losses and tax credits of FGL’s subsidiaries are subject to limitations under IRC Section 382, as a result of the change of ownership that occurred when the companies were purchased in 2011. This caused the net value of attributes that could be utilized to be limited to $5 each year, subject to increases for realized built-in gains on certain assets on the date of the change of ownership. On September 27, 2013, the Company underwent a second change of control within the meaning of IRC Section 382(g), triggered by the sale of HRG shares by Harbinger Capital Partners. At the time of this ownership change, FGL’s tax attributes consisted of capital loss carry forwards totaling approximately $350 , investment tax credits of approximately $54 , and alternative minimum tax ("AMT") credits of approximately $6 . The second 382 annual limitation is higher than the 2011 limitation and is not expected to have an impact on the utilization of tax attributes. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , FGL has NOL carryforwards of $95 and $92 , respectively, which, if unused, will expire in years 2026 through 2037. FGL has capital loss carryforwards totaling $15 and $6 at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, which if unused, will expire in years 2017 through 2022. In addition, at September 30, 2017 and 2016 , FGL has low income housing tax credit carryforwards totaling $47 and $52 , respectively, which, if unused, will expire in years 2020 through 2037, and alternative minimum tax credits of $6 and $6 , respectively, that may be carried forward indefinitely. FGL’s non-life subsidiaries file as part of HRG’s consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return. FGL’s insurance company subsidiaries file their own consolidated U.S. Federal life insurance tax return. The income tax liabilities of the FGL members of the consolidated HRG return are calculated using the separate return method with any payable or receivable reflecting an amount they would have recorded had they filed their own return. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , FGL and its subsidiaries have an income tax liability totaling $0 and $2 , respectively, which represents what they would have owed the IRS had they filed their own tax return. The U.S. Federal income tax returns of FGL for years prior to 2014 are no longer subject to examination by the taxing authorities. With limited exception, FGL is no longer subject to state and local income tax audits for years prior to 2013. FGL does not have any unrecognized tax benefits (“UTBs”) at September 30, 2017 and 2016 . In the event the Company has UTBs, interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions would be recorded as part of income tax expense in the financial statements. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of additional tax assessments by jurisdiction and, if necessary, adjusts its tax reserves based on new information or developments.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Commitments The Company has unfunded investment commitments as of September 30, 2017 based upon the timing of when investments are executed compared to when the actual investments are funded, as some investments require that funding occur over a period of months or years. A summary of unfunded commitments by invested asset class are included below: Asset Type September 30, 2017 Other invested assets $ 116 Commercial mortgage loans 33 Equity securities, available-for-sale 27 Other assets 21 Total $ 197 Lease Commitments The Company leases office space under non-cancelable operating leases that expire in May 2021. The Company also leased office furniture and office equipment under non-cancelable operating leases that expired in 2012. For the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the Company’s total rent expense was $3 , $2 and $2 , respectively. As of September 30, 2017 , the minimum rental commitments under the non-cancelable leases are as follows: Fiscal Year Amount 2018 $ 2 2019 2 2020 2 2021 1 2022 — Thereafter — Total $ 7 Contingencies Regulatory and Litigation Matters FGL is involved in various pending or threatened legal proceedings, including purported class actions, arising in the ordinary course of business. In some instances, these proceedings include claims for unspecified or substantial punitive damages and similar types of relief in addition to amounts for alleged contractual liability or requests for equitable relief. In the opinion of FGL management and in light of existing insurance and other potential indemnification, reinsurance and established accruals, such litigation is not expected to have a material adverse effect on FGL’s financial position, although it is possible that the results of operations and cash flows could be materially affected by an unfavorable outcome in any one period. FGL assessed amounts by the state guaranty funds to cover losses to policyholders of insolvent or rehabilitated insurance companies. Those mandatory assessments may be partially recovered through a reduction in future premium taxes in certain states. At September 30, 2017 , FGL has accrued $2 for guaranty fund assessments that is expected to be offset by estimated future premium tax deductions of $2 . The Company has received inquiries from a number of state regulatory authorities regarding its use of the U.S. Social Security Administration’s Death Master File (the "Death Master File") and compliance with state claims practices regulation. Legislation requiring insurance companies to use the Death Master File to identify potential claims has been enacted in a number of states. As a result of these legislative and regulatory developments, in May 2012, the Company undertook an initiative to use the Death Master File and other publicly available databases to identify persons potentially entitled to benefits under life insurance policies, annuities and retained asset accounts. In addition, FGL has received audit and examination notices from several state agencies responsible for escheatment and unclaimed property regulation in those states and in some cases has challenged the audits including litigation against the Controller for the State of California which is subject to a stay and separate litigation against the Treasurer for the State of Illinois. FGL believes its current accrual will cover the reasonably estimated liability arising out of these developments, however costs that cannot be reasonably estimated as of the date of this filing are possible as a result of ongoing regulatory developments and other future requirements related to these matters. On June 30, 2017, a putative class action complaint was filed against the Company in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, captioned Brokerage Insurance Partners v. Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company, Fidelity & Guaranty Life, FS Holdco II Ltd, and John Doe, No. 17-cv-1815. The complaint alleges that the Company breached the terms of its agency agreement with Brokerage Insurance Partners (“BIP”) and other agents by changing certain compensation terms. The complaint asserts, among other causes of action, breach of contract, defamation, tortious interference with contract, negligent misrepresentation, and violating of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (“RICO”). The complaint seeks to certify a class composed of all persons who entered into an agreement with the Company to sell life insurance and who sold at least one life insurance policy between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2017. The complaint seeks unspecified compensatory, consequential, and punitive damages in an amount not presently determinable, among other forms of relief. On September 1, 2017, the Company filed a counterclaim against BIP and John and Jane Does 1-10, asserting, among other causes of action, breach of contract, fraud, civil conspiracy and violations of RICO. As of the date of this report, FGL does not have sufficient information to determine whether it has exposure to any losses that would be either probable or reasonably estimable. On July 5, 2013, Plaintiff Eddie L. Cressy filed a putative class Complaint captioned Cressy v. Fidelity Guaranty [sic] Life Insurance Company, et. al. in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles (the "Court"), Case No. BC-514340. The Complaint was filed after the Plaintiff was unable to maintain an action in federal court. The Complaint asserted, inter alia, that the Plaintiff and members of the putative class relied on Defendants’ advice in purchasing allegedly unsuitable equity-indexed insurance policies. On January 2, 2015, the Court entered Final Judgment in Cressy , certifying the class for settlement purposes, and approving the class settlement reached on April 4, 2014. On August 10, 2015, the Company tendered $1 to the Settlement Administrator for a claim review fund. The Company implemented an interest enhancement feature for certain policies as part of the class settlement, which enhancement began on October 12, 2015. On October 24, 2016, the parties filed a Joint Motion to amend the January 2, 2015 Final Order and Judgment, to extend the deadline for settlement completion from October 24, 2016 to December 5, 2016. On December 5, 2016, Plaintiff Cressy filed a Notice of Filing Declaration of Settlement Administrator and Status of Completion of Settlement; the Declaration of Settlement Administrator included a certification by the Settlement Administrator that the Company had complied in all respects with the class settlement and that all eligible claims had been paid and the interest enhancement had been implemented pursuant to the terms of the class settlement. On March 24, 2017, the Court entered a Minute Order indicating that it was satisfied that the parties had fully and finally performed all of the terms of the settlement and recorded the matter as complete without the need for any further hearings. During the third quarter of 2015, the Company, HRG and OM Group (UK) Limited reached a global settlement that resolved all prior outstanding claims arising under the First Amended and Restated Stock Purchase Agreement, dated February 17, 2011 (the "F&G Stock Purchase Agreement") between FGL (previously, HFG) and OMGUK. As a part of the settlement, the Company received $4 to settle its outstanding claim that OMGUK was obligated to indemnify the Company for the costs to defend and the settlement of the actions brought by Plaintiff Cressy. On January 7, 2015, a putative class action complaint was filed in the United States District Court, Western District of Missouri (the "District Court"), captioned Dale R. Ludwick, on behalf of Herself and All Others Similarly Situated v. Harbinger Group Inc., Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company, Raven Reinsurance Company, and Front Street Re (Cayman) Ltd. The complaint alleges violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act ("RICO"), requests injunctive and declaratory relief and seeks unspecified compensatory damages for the putative class in an amount not presently determinable, treble damages, and other relief, and claims Plaintiff Ludwick overpaid $0 for her annuity. On February 12, 2016, the District Court granted the defendants’ Joint Motion to Dismiss the Plaintiff's claims. On March 3, 2016, Plaintiff Ludwick filed a Notice of Appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit (the “Court of Appeals”). On April 13, 2017, the Court of Appeals affirmed the District Court’s decision to dismiss the Plaintiff’s claims. The Plaintiff’s time to seek discretionary review of this matter expired on July 12, 2017. As of the date of this report, FGL does not have sufficient information to determine whether it has exposure to any losses that would be either probable or reasonably estimable beyond the $2 of expense incurred to date. Guarantees The F&G Stock Purchase Agreement between HFG and OMGUK included a Guarantee and Pledge Agreement, which created a security interest in the equity of FGLH and FGLH’s equity interest in FGL Insurance for the benefit of OMGUK in the event that FGL failed to perform certain obligations under the F&G Stock Purchase Agreement. In the third quarter of 2015, in connection with the settlement of the litigation amongst the Company, HRG and OMGUK, the Guarantee and Pledge Agreement was terminated and the Company was released from its obligations thereunder.

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance	Reinsurance The Company reinsures portions of its policy risks with other insurance companies. The use of reinsurance does not discharge an insurer from liability on the insurance ceded. The insurer is required to pay in full the amount of its insurance liability regardless of whether it is entitled to or able to receive payment from the reinsurer. The portion of risks exceeding the Company's retention limit is reinsured with other insurers. The Company seeks reinsurance coverage in order to limit its exposure to mortality losses and enhance capital management. The Company follows reinsurance accounting when there is adequate risk transfer. Otherwise, the deposit method of accounting is followed. The Company also assumes policy risks from other insurance companies. The effect of reinsurance on premiums earned and benefits incurred and reserve changes (net benefits incurred) for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Direct $ 233 $ 1,097 $ 261 $ 1,069 $ 260 $ 833 Assumed — — 1 1 — — Ceded (191 ) (254 ) (192 ) (279 ) (202 ) (255 ) Net $ 42 $ 843 $ 70 $ 791 $ 58 $ 578 Amounts payable or recoverable for reinsurance on paid and unpaid claims are not subject to periodic or maximum limits. During the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the Company did not write off any reinsurance balances. During the year ended September 30, 2017 , the Company did not commute any ceded reinsurance. Effective April 1, 2015, Security Life of Denver ("SLD") recaptured a traditional life block of business previously assumed and ceded by the Company and simultaneously ceded this business to Wilton Re. Effective September 1, 2016, FGL Insurance recaptured a certain block of life insurance ceded to Swiss Re and simultaneously ceded this business to Wilton Re. Effective January 1, 2017, the Company entered into a reinsurance agreement with Hannover Re, a third party reinsurer, to reinsure an inforce block of its FIA and fixed deferred annuity contracts with GMWB and Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit (“GMDB”) secondary guarantees. In accordance with the terms of this agreement, the Company cedes 70% net retention of secondary guarantee payments in excess of account value for GMWB and GMDB guarantees. Effective July 1, 2017, the Company extended this agreement to include new business issued during 2017. These transactions resulted in no GAAP impact on the effective dates of the transactions as we are following deposit accounting. No policies issued by the Company have been reinsured with any foreign company, which is controlled, either directly or indirectly, by a party not primarily engaged in the business of insurance. The Company has not entered into any reinsurance agreements in which the reinsurer may unilaterally cancel any reinsurance for reasons other than non-payment of premiums or other similar credit issues. Wilton Agreement In September 2012, Wilton Re and FGL Insurance reached a final agreement on the initial settlements associated with the reinsurance transactions FGL Insurance entered into. The final settlement amounts did not result in any material adjustments to the amounts reflected in the financial statements. FGL Insurance recognized a net pre-tax gain of $18 on these reinsurance transactions which has been deferred and is being amortized over the remaining life of the underlying reinsured contracts. The unamortized portion of this deferred gain was $8 and $10 as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Commissioners Annuity Reserve Valuation Method Facility (“CARVM”) Effective October 1, 2012, FGL Insurance recaptured the CARVM reinsurance agreement from OM Re and simultaneously ceded the business to Raven Reinsurance Company ("Raven Re"), its wholly-owned captive reinsurance company. The recapture of the OM Re CARVM reinsurance agreement satisfies the Company’s obligation under the F&G Stock Purchase Agreement to replace the letter of credit provided by OM no later than December 31, 2015. In connection with the new CARVM reinsurance agreement, FGL Insurance and Raven Re entered into an agreement with Nomura Bank International plc (“NBI”) to establish a $295 reserve financing facility in the form of a letter of credit issued by NBI and NBI charged an upfront structuring fee in the amount of $3 . The reserve financing facility is set to be reduced by $6 each quarter subsequent to establishment. The structuring fee was paid by FGL Insurance and will be deferred and amortized over the expected life of the facility. As this letter of credit is provided by an unaffiliated financial institution, Raven Re is permitted to carry the letter of credit as an admitted asset on the Raven Re statutory balance sheet. Effective June 30, 2017, the letter of credit facility was amended to reduce the available amount to $115 and extend the termination date to October 1, 2022, although the facility may terminate earlier, in accordance with the terms of the Reimbursement Agreement. Under the terms of the Reimbursement Agreement, in the event the letter of credit is drawn upon, Raven Re is required to repay the amounts utilized, and FGLH is obligated to repay the amounts utilized if Raven Re fails to make the required reimbursement. FGLH also is required to make capital contributions to Raven Re in the event that Raven Re’s statutory capital and surplus falls below certain defined levels. As of December 31, 2016, Raven Re’s statutory capital and surplus was $24 in excess of the minimum level required under the Reimbursement Agreement.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions FSRCI We have reinsured certain of our liabilities and obligations to FSRCI. As we are not relieved of our liability to our policyholders for this business, the liabilities and obligations associated with the reinsured policies remain on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets with a corresponding reinsurance recoverable from FSRCI. In addition to various remedies that we would have in the event of a default by FSRCI, we continue to hold assets in support of the transferred reserves. At September 30, 2017 and 2016 , the Company's reinsurance recoverable related to FSRCI included $1,016 and $1,120 , respectively, and funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities included $1,081 and $1,172 , respectively. Below are the ceded operating results to FSRCI for the year ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended September 30, Revenues: 2017 2016 2015 Premiums $ 1 $ 3 $ 1 Net investment income 46 61 63 Net investment gains (losses) 15 (8 ) (30 ) Insurance and investment product fees 2 3 4 Total revenues 64 59 38 Benefits and expenses: Benefits and other changes in policy reserves (39 ) (47 ) (42 ) Acquisition & operating expenses, net of deferrals (3 ) (4 ) (4 ) Total benefits and expenses (42 ) (51 ) (46 ) Operating income (loss) $ 22 $ 8 $ (8 ) FGL Insurance invested in CLO securities issued by Fortress Credit Opportunities III CLO LP ("FCO III") and also invested in securities issued by Fortress Credit BSL Limited ("Fortress BSL"). The parent of both FCO III and Fortress BSL is Fortress Investment Group LLC, which acquired interests greater than 10% ownership in HRG as of September 30, 2014. In March 2016, Hildene Leveraged Credit, LLC (“HLC”) sold four CLOs to Fortress Investment Group LLC. The four Hildene CLOs are now managed by an affiliate of Fortress Investment Group LLC, Fortress Credit Advisors, LLC. As of September 30, 2017 , the Company held two of these CLOs. In August 2016, FGL purchased a commercial real estate CLO from Fortress Investment Group LLC. In October 2016, FGL purchased bonds of Spectrum Brands, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of HRG Group, and in March 2017, FGL purchased asset backed CLOs from FCO III. The carrying value of these affiliated investments as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 are disclosed in the tables below. FGL Insurance participates in loans to third parties originated by Salus, an affiliated, limited liability company indirectly owned by HRG. Salus is also considered a VIE as described in “Note 4. Investments” to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. Salus originated senior secured asset-based loans to unaffiliated third-party borrowers. In January 2014, FSRCI acquired preferred equity interests in Salus which have a 10% per annum return and a total par value of $30 which is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio. Accordingly, all income on this asset is ceded to FSRCI. The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its investments in Salus is limited to the carrying value of the preferred equity interests. The carrying value of these investments in Salus as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 are disclosed in the tables below. On February 27, 2015, FGL Insurance entered into a transaction with Salus whereby Salus transferred $14 of loan participations and $16 of CLO subordinated debt (i.e., equity tranche) to FGL Insurance in exchange for retirement of the $20 promissory note and $10 revolving loan owed by Salus to FGL Insurance resulting in the termination of these facilities. Additionally, FGL Insurance also entered into a transaction with the Salus CLO whereby FGL Insurance transferred $29 of loan participations into the CLO in exchange for $27 of CLO subordinated notes (i.e., equity tranche) and a promissory note of $3 from Salus. Both transactions qualified as sales of financial assets accounted for at fair value and therefore did not result in any gain or loss. FGL Insurance also concluded that it was not the primary beneficiary of the Salus CLO before and after these two transactions as FGL Insurance lacks the power to direct the activities that significantly affect the economic performance of the CLO and, to a lesser extent, FGL Insurance continues to own less than a majority ownership of the CLO subordinated notes after the two transactions. On June 13, 2016, the Salus promissory note was repaid for $2 and all obligations under the note were satisfied. Please refer to "Note 5. Derivative Financial Instruments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosure of the Canadian dollar foreign exchange swap agreement activity for the year on our Salus loan participations. In August of 2015 and October of 2015, FGL entered into separate engagement letters with Credit Suisse and Jefferies, respectively, pursuant to which Credit Suisse and Jefferies agreed (on a non-exclusive basis) to provide financial advisory services to FGL in connection with a transaction involving a merger or other similar transaction with respect to at least a majority of the capital stock of FGL. The Credit Suisse engagement was extended by an amendment dated March 15, 2017. HRG, the holder of a majority of shares of outstanding common stock of FGL, is also a party to each engagement letter. Under each engagement letter, Credit Suisse and Jefferies, respectively, are entitled to receive a fee which represents a percentage of the value of the transaction, plus reimbursement for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Credit Suisse or Jefferies, as applicable, in connection with their engagement. FGL has also agreed to indemnify Credit Suisse and Jefferies for certain liabilities in connection with their engagement. Under each engagement letter, HRG is required to reimburse FGL for compensation paid by FGL to Credit Suisse or Jefferies under certain circumstances. Specifically, if compensation to Credit Suisse or Jefferies becomes payable in respect of a transaction that involves a disposition of shares of FGL held by HRG (and not other stockholders of FGL), HRG will reimburse FGL for the full amount of such compensation. If compensation to Credit Suisse or Jefferies becomes payable in respect of a transaction that involves a disposition of shares of FGL held by HRG and a disposition of not more than 50% of the shares of FGL held by stockholders of FGL other than HRG, HRG will reimburse FGL for its pro rata portion of such compensation (based on its relative number of shares compared to those held by stockholders of FGL other than HRG). The Company’s related party investments as of September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , and related net investment income for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 are summarized as follows: September 30, 2017 Type Balance Sheet Classification Asset carrying value Accrued Investment Income Total carrying value Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale $ 175 $ 2 $ 177 Spectrum Brands, Inc. Fixed maturities, available for sale 2 — — 2 2 Salus preferred equity (a) Equity securities, available for sale 2 — 2 HGI energy loan (b) Related party loans 71 — 71 (a) Salus preferred equity is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly all income on this asset is ceded to FSRCI. (b) The HGI energy loan is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly the income related to this portion is ceded to FSRCI. September 30, 2016 Type Balance Sheet Classification Asset carrying value Accrued Investment Income Total carrying value Salus CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale $ 19 $ — $ 19 Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale 225 2 227 Salus preferred equity (a) Equity securities, available for sale 3 — 3 Salus participations (b) Other invested assets 21 — 21 HGI energy loan (c) Related party loans 71 — 71 (a) Salus preferred equity is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly all income on this asset is ceded to FSRCI. (b) Includes loan participations with 4 different borrowers with an average loan fair value of $5 as of September 30, 2016 (c) The HGI energy loan is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly the income related to this portion is ceded to FSRCI. Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Type Investment Income Classification Net investment income Net investment income Net investment income Salus CLOs Fixed maturities $ 1 $ 9 $ 11 Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities 10 11 8 Salus participations Other invested assets — 4 15 EIC participations Other invested assets — 1 — HGI energy loan Related party loans — 4 5 Salus promissory note Related party loans — — 1 The Company had realized foreign exchange losses of $2 , $5 and $4 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, related to its CAD denominated loan participations originated by Salus. Additionally, the Company had foreign exchange derivative and embedded derivative losses, including losses on CAD currency forward contracts, of $0 for the year ended September 30, 2017 , and (losses) gains of $(2) and $9 for the years ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, included in other invested assets. See "Note 5. Derivative Financial Instruments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. In August 2016, FGL Insurance exchanged the $71 2013 HGI Energy Loan issued by HGI Energy for new notes issued by HGI Energy for the same fair value with an August 2017 maturity date. The new notes issued are held in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio . Effective May 1, 2017, FGL Insurance and HGI Energy extended the maturity date of the new notes until the earlier of: June 30, 2018 or a change in control of FGL Insurance. In addition, the parties have agreed to increase the rate of interest on the New Notes from 0.71% to 1.50% on August 22, 2017. During 2016, the Company received proceeds from the RSH liquidation trust of $23 resulting in a realized gain of $8 . The Company’s investments in RSH were included within the Salus CLOs and Salus Participations. See "Note 4. Investments" to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for further details. The Company’s gross realized gains and net realized impairment losses on related party investments as of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 are summarized as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Type Investment Income Classification Net realized gain (losses) Net realized gain (losses) Net realized gain (losses) Salus CLOs (a) Fixed maturities $ (2 ) $ (12 ) $ (37 ) Salus participations (b) Other invested assets — (19 ) (40 ) Salus preferred equity (c) Other invested assets (3 ) — (30 ) (a) Net of impairments of $2 , $11 , and $46 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (b) Net of impairments of $1 , $22 , and $36 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (c) Net of impairments of $0 , $0 , and $0 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. During the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the Company has investment management agreements with Salus, CorAmerica Capital, LLC, and Energy & Infrastructure Capital, LLC ("EIC"), all wholly-owned subsidiaries of HGI Asset Management Holdings, LLC, which is also a wholly-owned subsidiary of HRG. The agreement for EIC was terminated in July 2016, and CorAmerica is no longer a wholly-owned subsidiary of HGI Asset Management Holdings. The Company paid management fees to these entities for the services provided under these agreements, which are usual and customary for these types of services, as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Salus $ — $ — $ 1 CorAmerica Capital, LLC 1 0.000002 3 1 EIC — — — —

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (share amounts in thousands): Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net income attributable to common shares - basic $ 223 $ 97 $ 118 Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic 58,320 58,275 58,118 Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock & PRSU 43 271 208 Dilutive effect of stock options 52 32 35 Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted 58,415 58,578 58,361 Net income per common share: Basic $ 3.83 $ 1.67 $ 2.03 Diluted $ 3.83 $ 1.66 $ 2.02 The number of shares of common stock outstanding used in calculating the weighted average thereof reflects the actual number of FGL shares of common stock outstanding, excluding unvested restricted stock and shares held in treasury. The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 excludes the incremental effect related to certain outstanding stock options and restricted shares due to their anti-dilutive effect. The number of weighted average equivalent shares excluded in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 are 0 shares, 19 thousand shares, and 17 thousand shares, respectively. In the fourth quarter 2016, the Company decided to settle the performance restricted stock units granted in 2014 and 2015 in cash upon vesting and, therefore, these performance restricted stock units were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share in fourth quarter 2016 and future periods. Also, performance restricted stock units granted in 2017 under the FGL plan and stock-based compensation awards granted under the FGLH Plans are settled in cash and, therefore, are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share.

Insurance Subsidiary Financial

Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters	Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters The Company’s insurance subsidiaries file financial statements with state insurance regulatory authorities and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) that are prepared in accordance with Statutory Accounting Principles (“SAP”) prescribed or permitted by such authorities, which may vary materially from GAAP. Prescribed SAP includes the Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual of the NAIC as well as state laws, regulations and administrative rules. Permitted SAP encompasses all accounting practices not so prescribed. The principal differences between statutory financial statements and financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP are that statutory financial statements do not reflect DAC and VOBA, some bond portfolios may be carried at amortized cost, assets and liabilities are presented net of reinsurance, contractholder liabilities are generally valued using more conservative assumptions and certain assets are non-admitted. Accordingly, statutory operating results and statutory capital and surplus may differ substantially from amounts reported in the GAAP basis financial statements for comparable items. The Company’s principal insurance subsidiaries’ statutory financial statements are based on a December 31 year end. Statutory net income and statutory capital and surplus of the Company’s wholly-owned insurance subsidiaries were as follows: Subsidiary (state of domicile)(a) FGL Insurance (IA) FGL NY Insurance (NY) Statutory Net income (loss): Year ended December 31, 2016 $ 21 $ 4 Year ended December 31, 2015 (53 ) (1 ) Year ended December 31, 2014 105 2 Statutory Capital and Surplus: December 31, 2016 $ 1,323 $ 64 December 31, 2015 1,239 59 (a) FGL NY Insurance is a subsidiary of FGL Insurance, and the columns should not be added together. The amount of statutory capital and surplus necessary to satisfy the applicable regulatory requirements is less than FGL Insurance’s and FGL NY Insurance’s respective statutory capital and surplus. Life insurance companies are subject to certain Risk-Based Capital (“RBC”) requirements as specified by the NAIC. The RBC is used to evaluate the adequacy of capital and surplus maintained by an insurance company in relation to risks associated with: (i) asset risk, (ii) insurance risk, (iii) interest rate risk and (iv) business risk. The Company monitors the RBC of FGLH’s insurance subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , each of FGLH’s insurance subsidiaries had exceeded the minimum RBC requirements. The Company’s insurance subsidiaries are restricted by state laws and regulations as to the amount of dividends they may pay to their parent without regulatory approval in any year, the purpose of which is to protect affected insurance policyholders, depositors or investors. Any dividends in excess of limits are deemed “extraordinary” and require approval. Based on statutory results as of December 31, 2016, in accordance with applicable dividend restrictions, the Company’s subsidiaries could pay “ordinary” dividends of $132 to FGLH in 2017 , less any dividends paid during the immediately preceding 12 month period. In September 2017, FGL Insurance declared and paid an ordinary dividend of $25 to FGLH. The Company did not declare or pay any other dividends to FGLH during the previous 12 months. Therefore, for the period of October 1 to December 31, 2017, FGL Insurance is able to declare ordinary dividends up to $107 with respect to its 2016 statutory results, subject to management’s discretion. FGL Insurance’s statutory carrying value of Raven Re reflects the effect of permitted practices Raven Re received to treat the available amount of a letter of credit as an admitted asset which increased Raven Re’s statutory capital and surplus by $195 and $220 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Effective April, 1 2017, FGL Insurance and Raven Re amended the reinsurance treaty and related trust and letter of credit agreements to extend the term of the letter of credit which would have matured on September 30, 2017. The amendments added additional in-force business to the reinsurance treaty (fixed indexed annuities without a guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit rider and multi-year guarantee annuities (“MYGA”) issued between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016). No initial ceding commission was paid or received by FGL Insurance or Raven Re in connection with the cession of additional in-force business. No assets were transferred to or from FGL Insurance or Raven Re in connection with the cession of additional in-force business. The amendments extended the letter of credit for an additional five year period and reduced the face amount of the letter of credit at April 1, 2017 from $183 to $115 . Raven Re is also permitted to follow Iowa prescribed statutory accounting practice for its reserves on reinsurance assumed from FGL Insurance which increased Raven Re’s statutory capital and surplus by $4 and $4 at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Without such permitted statutory accounting practices Raven Re’s statutory capital and (deficit) surplus would be $8 and $(14) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and its risk-based capital would fall below the minimum regulatory requirements. The letter of credit facility is collateralized by NAIC 1 rated debt securities. If the permitted practice was revoked, the letter of credit could be replaced by the collateral assets with Nomura’s consent. FGL Insurance’s statutory carrying value of Raven Re at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $207 and $210 , respectively. On November 1, 2013, FGL Insurance re-domesticated from Maryland to Iowa. After re-domestication, FGL Insurance elected to apply Iowa-prescribed accounting practices that permit Iowa-domiciled insurers to report equity call options used to economically hedge FIA index credits at amortized cost for statutory accounting purposes and to calculate FIA statutory reserves such that index credit returns will be included in the reserve only after crediting to the annuity contract. This resulted in a $0 and $47 increase to statutory capital and surplus at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Also, the Iowa Insurance Division granted FGL Insurance a permitted statutory accounting practice to reclassify its negative unassigned surplus balance of $806 to additional paid in capital as of April 6, 2011, the date the Company acquired FGL Insurance, which had the effect of setting FGL Insurance’s statutory unassigned surplus to zero as of this date. The prescribed and permitted statutory accounting practices have no impact on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements which are prepared in accordance with GAAP. As of December 31, 2016, FGL NY Insurance did not follow any prescribed or permitted statutory accounting practices that differ from the NAIC's statutory accounting practices.

Other Liabilities

Other Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities	Other Liabilities Other liabilities consisted of the following: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Amounts payable for investment purchases $ 173 $ 106 Retained asset account 194 221 Option collateral liabilities 276 118 Remittances and items not allocated 39 77 Amounts payable to reinsurers 36 36 Accrued expenses 55 60 Deferred reinsurance revenue 23 25 Other 101 103 Total $ 897 $ 746

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans The Company sponsors a defined contribution plan in which eligible participants may defer a fixed amount or a percentage of their eligible compensation, subject to limitations, and the Company makes a discretionary matching contribution of up to 5% of eligible compensation. The Company has also established a nonqualified defined contribution plan for independent agents. The Company makes contributions to the plan based on both the Company’s and the agent’s performance. Contributions are discretionary and evaluated annually. Contributions charged to operations for the employee defined contribution plans, including discretionary amounts, were $2 , $2 and $2 , for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively.

Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

Quarterly Results (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results (Unaudited)	Quarterly Results (Unaudited) Unaudited quarterly results of operations are summarized below. Quarter Ended September 30, 2017 June 30, 2017 March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 (Dollars in millions, except per share data) Premiums $ 16 $ 12 $ 3 $ 11 Net investment income 261 257 247 240 Net realized gains (losses) 117 67 81 51 Insurance and investment product fees and other 41 44 44 38 Total revenue 435 380 375 340 Total expenses 342 326 334 171 Net income 61 32 22 108 Net income per common share - basic 1.06 0.54 0.38 1.85 Net income per common share - diluted 1.06 0.54 0.38 1.85 Quarter Ended September 30, 2016 June 30, 2016 March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (Dollars in millions, except per share data) Premiums $ 18 $ 21 $ 16 $ 15 Net investment income 238 236 227 222 Net realized (losses) gains 26 (28 ) (42 ) 63 Insurance and investment product fees and other 34 32 32 29 Total revenue 316 261 233 329 Total expenses 262 240 212 250 Net income (loss) 30 10 9 48 Net income (loss) per common share - basic 0.52 0.16 0.16 0.82 Net income (loss) per common share - diluted 0.52 0.16 0.16 0.82

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events On November 14, 2017, FGLH received majority consent from holders of its 6.375% senior notes due 2021 to adopt certain amendments to their governing indenture. These amendments principally impact provisions of the indenture that would have been affected by the Merger and do not affect the principal, term or borrowing rate of the notes outstanding. FGLH will pay $3 to the holders that approved the consent no later than the third business day following the time at which all the conditions with respect to the consent solicitation, including the consummation of the Merger, have been satisfied or waived.

Schedule I - Summary of Investm

Schedule I - Summary of Investments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract]
Schedule I - Summary of Investments	Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Related Parties September 30, 2017 (in millions) Amortized Cost Fair Value Amount at which shown on the balance sheet Fixed Maturities: Bonds: United States Government and government agencies and authorities $ 232 $ 235 $ 235 States, municipalities and political subdivisions 1,573 1,726 1,726 Foreign governments 4 4 4 Public utilities 2,109 2,202 2,202 All other corporate bonds 16,145 16,987 16,987 Redeemable preferred stock — — — Total fixed maturities 20,063 21,154 21,154 Equity securities: Common stocks: Public utilities — — — Banks, trust, and insurance companies 110 111 111 Industrial, miscellaneous and all other 1 2 2 Nonredeemable preferred stock 622 660 660 Total equity securities 733 773 773 Derivative investments 225 413 413 Commercial mortgage loans 547 552 547 Other long-term investments 185 182 185 Total investments $ 21,753 $ 23,074 $ 23,072 See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Schedule II - Condensed Financi

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information	CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (in millions) September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 ASSETS Investments in consolidated subsidiaries $ 2,241 $ 1,913 Fixed maturity securities, available for sale — 5 Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value — 12 Cash and cash equivalents 2 2 Other assets 4 2 Total assets $ 2,247 $ 1,934 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Total liabilities — — Shareholders' equity Preferred stock — — Common stock 1 1 Additional paid in capital 716 714 Retained earnings 1,000 792 Accumulated other comprehensive income 543 439 Treasury stock (13 ) (12 ) Total shareholder's equity 2,247 1,934 Total liabilities and shareholder's equity $ 2,247 $ 1,934 See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (in millions) Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues $ (1 ) $ (2 ) $ (9 ) (1 ) (2 ) (9 ) Operating expenses: General and administrative expenses 2 3 6 Total operating expenses 2 3 6 Operating loss (3 ) (5 ) (15 ) Other income: Equity in net income of subsidiaries 227 103 133 Income before income taxes 224 98 118 Income tax expense 1 1 — Net income $ 223 $ 97 $ 118 See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (in millions) Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 223 $ 97 $ 118 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities: Realized capital and other gains on investments 5 2 9 Equity in net income of subsidiaries (227 ) (103 ) (133 ) Stock based compensation 2 (2 ) 10 Other assets and other liabilities 3 2 2 Net cash provided (used in) by operating activities 6 (4 ) 6 Cash flows from investing activities: Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid: 12 5 30 Cost of available-for-sale investments: — — (15 ) Net cash provided by investing activities 12 5 15 Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of transactions fees — 2 2 Dividends payments (15 ) (15 ) (15 ) Treasury stock (1 ) (1 ) (11 ) Distribution to FGLH and subsidiaries (2 ) 2 (50 ) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (18 ) (12 ) (74 ) Change in cash and cash equivalents — (11 ) (53 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 2 13 66 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 2 $ 2 $ 13 See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Schedule III - Supplementary In

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	Supplementary Insurance Information (in millions) Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Life Insurance (single segment): Deferred acquisition costs $ 1,129 $ 1,007 $ 801 Future policy benefits, losses, claims and loss expenses 3,412 3,467 3,468 Other policy claims and benefits payable 67 55 55 Premium revenue 42 70 58 Net investment income 1,005 923 851 Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses (843 ) (791 ) (578 ) Amortization of deferred acquisition costs (171 ) (49 ) (27 ) Other operating expenses (137 ) (119 ) (113 ) See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Schedule IV - Reinsurance

Schedule IV - Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract]
Schedule IV - Reinsurance	Reinsurance (In millions) For the year ended September 30, 2017 Gross Amount Ceded to other companies Assumed from other companies Net Amount Percentage of amount assumed of net Life insurance in force $ 3,207 $ (2,036 ) $ — $ 1,171 — % Premiums and other considerations: Traditional life insurance premiums 233 (191 ) — 42 — % Annuity product charges 229 (64 ) — 165 — % Total premiums and other considerations $ 462 $ (255 ) $ — $ 207 — % For the year ended September 30, 2016 Gross Amount Ceded to other companies Assumed from other companies Net Amount Percentage of amount assumed of net Life insurance in force $ 3,081 $ (2,024 ) $ — $ 1,057 — % Premiums and other considerations: Traditional life insurance premiums 261 (192 ) 1 70 1 % Annuity product charges 191 (67 ) — 124 — % Total premiums and other considerations $ 452 $ (259 ) $ 1 $ 194 1 % For the year ended September 30, 2015 Gross Amount Ceded to other companies Assumed from other companies Net Amount Percentage of amount assumed of net Life insurance in force $ 2,933 $ (2,010 ) $ — $ 923 — % Premiums and other considerations: Traditional life insurance premiums 260 (202 ) — 58 — % Annuity product charges 156 (69 ) — 87 — % Total premiums and other considerations $ 416 $ (271 ) $ — $ 145 — % See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Significant Accounting Polici32

Significant Accounting Policies and Practices (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all other entities in which FGL has a controlling financial interest and any variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which we are the primary beneficiary. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
VIE	We are involved in certain entities that are considered VIEs as defined under GAAP. Our involvement with VIEs is primarily to invest in assets that allow us to gain exposure to a broadly diversified portfolio of asset classes. A VIE is an entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its own activities without additional financial support or where investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. We assess our relationships to determine if we have the ability to direct the activities, or otherwise exert control to evaluate if we are the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If we determine we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consolidate the assets and liabilities of the VIE in our Consolidated Financial Statements . The Company has not determined that we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE as of September 30, 2017. See "Note 4. Investments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Company’s investments in unconsolidated VIEs.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Insurance Premiums The Company’s insurance premiums for traditional life insurance products are recognized as revenue when due from the contractholder. The Company’s traditional life insurance products include those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits and consist primarily of term life insurance and certain annuities with life contingencies. Premium collections for fixed indexed and fixed rate annuities, indexed universal life (“IUL”) policies and immediate annuities without life contingency are reported as deposit liabilities (i.e., contractholder funds) instead of as revenues. Similarly, cash payments to policyholders are reported as decreases in the liability for contractholder funds and not as expenses. Sources of revenues for products accounted for as deposit liabilities are net investment income, surrender and other charges deducted from contractholder funds, and net realized gains (losses) on investments. Net Investment Income Dividends and interest income, recorded in “Net investment income”, are recognized when earned. Income or losses upon call or prepayment of available-for-sale fixed maturity securities is recognized in net investment income. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on investments in fixed maturity securities are reflected in “Net investment income” over the contractual terms of the investments in a manner that produces a constant effective yield. For mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, included in the fixed maturity available-for-sale (“AFS”) securities portfolios, the Company recognizes income using a constant effective yield based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When actual prepayments differ significantly from originally anticipated prepayments, the effective yield is recalculated prospectively to reflect actual payments to date plus anticipated future payments. Any adjustments resulting from changes in effective yield are reflected in “Net investment income’’. Net Investment Gains (Losses) Net investment gains (losses) include realized gains and losses from the sale of investments, write-downs for other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) of AFS investments, other invested assets, commercial mortgage loans and related party loans, and gains and losses on derivatives. Realized gains and losses on the sale of investments are determined using the specific identification method. Product Fees Product fee revenue from IUL products and deferred annuities is comprised of policy and contract fees charged for the cost of insurance, and policy administration and rider fees. Fees are assessed on a monthly basis and recognized as revenue when assessed and earned. Product fee revenue also includes surrender charges which are collected and recognized as revenue when the policy is surrendered.
Benefits and Other Changes in Policy Reserves	Benefits and Other Changes in Policy Reserves Benefit expenses for deferred annuity, FIA and IUL policies include index credits and interest credited to contractholder account balances and benefit claims incurred during the period in excess of contract account balances, net of reinsurance recoveries. Interest crediting rates associated with funds invested in the general account of our insurance subsidiaries during 2015 through 2017 ranged from 0.0% to 6.0% for deferred annuities and FIA's, combined, and 3.0% to 4.5% for IUL's. Other changes in policy reserves include the change in the fair value of the FIA embedded derivative and the change in the reserve for secondary guarantee benefit payments. Other changes in policy reserves also include the change in reserves for life insurance products. For traditional life and immediate annuities, policy benefit claims are charged to expense in the period that the claims are incurred, net of reinsurance recoveries.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation In general, we expense the fair value of stock awards included in our incentive compensation plans. As of the date our stock awards are approved and communicated to the recipients, the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes options valuation methodology, and the fair value of other stock awards is based upon the market value of the stock. The fair value of the awards is expensed over the performance or service period, which generally corresponds to the vesting period, and is recognized as an increase to “Additional paid-in capital” in “Shareholders’ equity”. We classify certain stock awards as liabilities. For these awards, the fair value is classified as a liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the liability is marked-to-market through net income at the end of each reporting period. Stock-based compensation expense is reflected in “Acquisition and operating expenses, net of deferrals” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. If we modify an award or change our intent to settle an award in equity or cash, we recognize additional compensation expense for the increase in the fair value of the award between the grant date and the date of modification for change in intent and any periods subsequent to the modification, if applicable. As described under "Recent Accounting Pronouncements" in Note 2, the Company early adopted ASU 2016-09 effective October 1, 2015. The adoption of ASU 2016-09 did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements and related disclosures.
Interest Expense	Interest Expense Interest expense on our debt is recognized as due and any associated premiums, discounts, and costs are amortized (accreted) over the term of the related borrowing utilizing the straight line method. Interest expense also includes non-use fees on the revolving credit facility entered into in August 2014.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing earnings available to common shareholders by the average common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is computed assuming the conversion or exercise of nonvested stock, stock options, and performance share units outstanding during the year. Stock options are excluded from the computation of diluted EPS, based on the application of the treasury stock method, if they are anti-dilutive.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. As of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 , and the company held cash equivalents of $45 and $465 , respectively.
Investments	Investments Investment Securities The Company’s investments in fixed maturity and equity securities have been designated as AFS and are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income” (“AOCI”), net of associated intangibles “shadow adjustments” (discussed in "Note 7. Intangibles" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements ) and deferred income taxes. Available-for-Sale Securities' Other-Than-Temporary Impairments The Company regularly reviews AFS securities for declines in fair value that it determines to be other-than-temporary. For an equity security, if the Company does not have the ability and intent to hold the security for a sufficient and reasonable period of time to allow for a recovery in value, it concludes that an OTTI has occurred and the cost of the equity security is written down to the current fair value, with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. When assessing its ability and intent to hold an equity security to recovery, the Company considers, among other things, the severity and duration of the decline in fair value of the equity security as well as the cause of the decline, a fundamental analysis of the liquidity, business prospects and the overall financial condition of the issuer. For its available-for-sale securities, the Company generally considers the following in determining whether its unrealized losses are other-than-temporary: • The estimated range and period until recovery; • The extent and the duration of the decline; • The reasons for the decline in value (credit event, currency or interest-rate related, including general credit spread widening); • The financial condition of and near-term prospects of the issuer (including issuer’s current credit rating and the probability of full recovery of principal based upon the issuer’s financial strength); • Current delinquencies and nonperforming assets of underlying collateral; • Expected future default rates; • Collateral value by vintage, geographic region, industry concentration or property type; • Subordination levels or other credit enhancements as of the balance sheet date as compared to origination; and • Contractual and regulatory cash obligations and the issuer's plans to meet such obligations. The Company recognizes OTTI on debt (including redeemable and perpetual preferred stocks) securities in an unrealized loss position when one of the following circumstances exists: • The Company does not expect full recovery of its amortized cost based on the estimate of cash flows expected to be collected; • The Company intends to sell a security; or • It is more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell a security prior to recovery. If the Company intends to sell a fixed maturity available-for-sale security or it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the fair value of the security is below amortized cost, the Company will conclude that an OTTI has occurred and the amortized cost is written down to current fair value, with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. If the Company does not intend to sell a fixed maturity security or it is more likely than not the Company will not be required to sell a fixed maturity security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost of the security (referred to as the credit loss), an OTTI has occurred and the amortized cost is written down to the estimated recovery value with a corresponding charge to “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations, as this amount is deemed the credit loss portion of the OTTI. The remainder of the decline to fair value is recorded in AOCI as unrealized OTTI on available-for-sale securities, as this amount is considered a non-credit (i.e., recoverable) impairment. When assessing the Company’s intent to sell a fixed maturity security or if it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell a fixed maturity security before recovery of its cost basis, the Company evaluates facts and circumstances such as, but not limited to, decisions to reposition the Company’s security portfolio, sale of securities to meet cash flow needs and sales of securities to capitalize on favorable pricing and tax planning strategies. In order to determine the amount of the credit loss for a security, the Company calculates the recovery value by performing a discounted cash flow analysis based on the current cash flows and future cash flows the Company expects to recover. The discount rate is the effective interest rate implicit in the underlying security. The effective interest rate is the original purchased yield or the yield at the date the fixed maturity security was previously impaired. When evaluating redeemable preferred stocks for OTTI the Company applies the accounting policy described above for fixed maturity securities. Additionally, the SEC’s staff in the Office of the Chief Accountant issued a letter (SEC OTTI Release) to the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) on October 14, 2008, providing clarifying guidance on how to assess impairments of perpetual preferred securities (“PPS”), including perpetual preferred stock. After consultation with and concurrence of the FASB staff, the SEC staff has concluded that it will not object to an issuer treating a PPS similar to a fixed maturity security in an OTTI evaluation (including an anticipated recovery period), provided there has been no evidence of a deterioration in credit of the issuer. Consequently, when such criteria is met we apply the OTTI guidance of fixed maturity securities to perpetual preferred stock. When evaluating mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, the Company considers a number of pool-specific factors as well as market level factors when determining whether or not the impairment on the security is temporary or other-than-temporary. The most important factor is the performance of the underlying collateral in the security and the trends of that performance. The Company uses this information about the collateral to forecast the timing and rate of mortgage loan defaults, including making projections for loans that are already delinquent and for those loans that are currently performing but may become delinquent in the future. Other factors used in this analysis include type of underlying collateral (e.g., prime, Alternative A-paper (“Alt-A”), or subprime), geographic distribution of underlying loans and timing of liquidations by state. Once default rates and timing assumptions are determined, the Company then makes assumptions regarding the severity of a default if it were to occur. Factors that impact the severity assumption include expectations for future home price appreciation or depreciation, loan size, first lien versus second lien, existence of loan level private mortgage insurance, type of occupancy and geographic distribution of loans. Once default and severity assumptions are determined for the security in question, cash flows for the underlying collateral are projected, including expected defaults and prepayments. These cash flows on the collateral are then translated to cash flows on the Company’s tranche based on the cash flow waterfall of the entire capital security structure. If this analysis indicates the entire principal on a particular security will not be returned, the security is reviewed for OTTI by comparing the present value of expected cash flows to amortized cost. To the extent that the security has already been impaired or was purchased at a discount, such that the amortized cost of the security is less than or equal to the present value of cash flows expected to be collected, no impairment is required. The Company also considers the ability of monoline insurers to meet their contractual guarantees on wrapped mortgage-backed securities. Otherwise, if the amortized cost of the security is greater than the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected, then an OTTI is recognized. The Company includes on the face of the Consolidated Statements of Operations the total OTTI recognized in "Net investment gains (losses)", with an offset for the amount of non-credit impairments recognized in AOCI. The Company discloses the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI and other disclosures related to OTTI in "Note 4. Investments" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	Mortgage Loans on Real Estate The Company’s mortgage loans on real estate are all commercial mortgage loans, which are reported at amortized cost, less impairment write-downs and allowance for losses. If a mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement or the loan is modified in a troubled debt restructuring), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the lower of either the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan’s original purchase yield, or fair value of the collateral. For those mortgages that are determined to require foreclosure, the carrying value is reduced to the fair value of the underlying collateral, net of estimated costs to obtain and sell at the point of foreclosure. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing an allowance with the offset recorded in "Net investment gains (losses)" in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Mortgage loans are evaluated by the Company’s investment professionals, including an appraisal of loan-specific credit quality, property characteristics and market trends. Loan performance is continuously monitored on a loan-specific basis throughout the year. The Company’s review includes submitted appraisals, operating statements, rent revenues and annual inspection reports, among other items. This review evaluates whether the properties are performing at a consistent and acceptable level to secure the debt. Mortgages are rated for the purpose of quantifying the level of risk. Those loans with higher risk are placed on a watch list and are closely monitored for collateral deficiency or other credit events that may lead to a potential loss of principal or interest. The Company defines delinquent mortgage loans consistent with industry practice as 30 days past due. Interest on loans is recognized on an accrual basis at the applicable interest rate on the principal amount outstanding. Loan origination fees and direct costs, as well as premiums and discounts, are amortized as level yield adjustments over the respective loan terms. Unamortized net fees or costs are recognized upon early repayment of the loans. Loan commitment fees are deferred and amortized on an effective yield basis over the term of the loan. We establish mortgage loan valuation allowances both on a loan specific basis for those loans considered impaired where a property specific or market specific risk has been identified that could likely result in a future loss, as well as for pools of loans with similar risk characteristics where a property specific or market specific risk has not been identified, but for which we expect to incur a loss. Accordingly, a valuation allowance is provided to absorb these estimated probable credit losses. As of September 30, 2017 and 2016, the Company did not identify any specific loans that were impaired. The determination of the amount of valuation allowances is based upon our periodic evaluation and assessment of inherent risks associated with our loan portfolios. Such evaluations and assessments are based upon several factors, including our experience for loan losses, defaults and loss severity, and loss expectations for loans with similar risk characteristics. We evaluate and monitor loan-to-value ("LTV") ratios and debt service coverage ("DSC") ratios of our loans as indicators of potential risk of default in establishing our valuation allowance.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments The Company hedges certain portions of its exposure to product related equity market risk by entering into derivative transactions. All of such derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. The change in fair value is recognized within “Net investment gains (losses)” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company purchases financial instruments and issues products that may contain embedded derivative instruments. If it is determined that the embedded derivative possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host contract for measurement purposes. The embedded derivative is carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations . Reinsurance Related Embedded Derivatives FGL Insurance has a modified coinsurance arrangement with FSRCI, meaning that funds are withheld by FGL Insurance. This arrangement creates an obligation for FGL Insurance to pay FSRCI at a later date, which results in an embedded derivative. This embedded derivative is considered a total return swap with contractual returns that are attributable to the assets and liabilities associated with this reinsurance arrangement. The fair value of the total return swap is based on the change in fair value of the underlying assets held in the funds withheld portfolio. Investment results for the assets that support the coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance arrangement, including gains and losses from sales, are passed directly to the reinsurer pursuant to contractual terms of the reinsurance arrangement. The reinsurance related embedded derivative is reported in “Other assets”, if in a net gain position, or "Other liabilities", if in a net loss position, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the related gains or losses are reported in “Net investment gains” on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Limited Partnership Investment	Limited Partnership Investment Our investments in limited partnerships are included in other invested assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We account for our investments in limited partnerships using the equity method to determine the carrying value. Income from the limited partnership is included in net investment income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Recognition of income is delayed due to the availability of the related financial statements, which are obtained from the partnership’s general partner generally on a one to three-month delay. Management also meets quarterly with the general partner to determine whether any credit or other market events have occurred since prior quarter financial statements to ensure any material events are properly included in current quarter valuation and investment income. In addition, the impact of audit adjustments related to completion of calendar-year financial statement audits of the limited partnership are typically received during the third quarter of each fiscal year. Accordingly, our investment income from the limited partnership investment for any fiscal-year period may not include the complete impact of the change in the underlying net assets for the partnership for that fiscal-year period.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets The Company’s intangible assets include value of business acquired (“VOBA”), deferred acquisition cost (“DAC”) and deferred sales inducements (“DSI”). VOBA is an intangible asset that reflects the estimated fair value of in-force contracts in a life insurance company acquisition less the amount recorded as insurance contract liabilities. It represents the portion of the purchase price that is allocated to the value of the rights to receive future cash flows from the business in force at the acquisition date. DAC consists principally of commissions that are related directly to the successful sale of new or recoverable insurance contracts, which may be deferred to the extent recoverable. Indirect or unsuccessful acquisition costs, maintenance, product development and overhead expenses are charged to expense as incurred. DSI represents up front bonus credits and vesting bonuses to policyholder account values, which are accounted for similarly to DAC and are recorded within the DAC asset balance. The methodology for determining the amortization of DAC and VOBA varies by product type. For all insurance contracts accounted for under long-duration contract deposit accounting, amortization is based on assumptions consistent with those used in the development of the underlying contract adjusted for emerging experience and expected trends. DAC and VOBA amortization are reported within “Amortization of intangibles” in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. DAC and VOBA for investment-type products and DAC for IUL products are generally amortized over the lives of the policies in relation to the incidence of estimated gross profits (“EGPs”) from investment income, surrender charges and other product fees, policy benefits, maintenance expenses, mortality net of reinsurance ceded and expense margins, and recognized gains (losses) on investments and changes in fair value of the coinsurance embedded derivative. Changes in assumptions can have a significant impact on DAC and VOBA balances and amortization rates. Due to the relative size and sensitivity to minor changes in underlying assumptions of DAC and VOBA balances, the Company performs quarterly and annual analyses of DAC and VOBA for the annuity and IUL businesses. The DAC and VOBA balances are also periodically evaluated for recoverability to ensure that the unamortized portion does not exceed the expected recoverable amounts. At each evaluation date, actual historical gross profits are reflected, and estimated future gross profits and related assumptions are evaluated for continued reasonableness. Any adjustment in estimated future gross profits requires that the amortization rate be revised (“unlocking”) retroactively to the date of the policy or contract issuance. The cumulative unlocking adjustment is recognized as a component of current period amortization. The carrying amounts of DAC and VOBA are adjusted for the effects of realized and unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities classified as available-for-sale and certain derivatives and embedded derivatives. For investment-type products, the DAC and VOBA assets are adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains (losses) on investments as if these gains (losses) had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI. Amortization expense of DAC and VOBA reflects an assumption for an expected level of credit-related investment losses. When actual credit-related investment losses are realized, the Company performs a retrospective unlocking of DAC and VOBA amortization as actual margins vary from expected margins. This unlocking is reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Reinsurance	Reinsurance The Company’s insurance subsidiaries enter into reinsurance agreements with other companies in the normal course of business. The assets, liabilities, premiums and benefits of certain reinsurance contracts are presented on a net basis in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Operations , respectively, when there is a right of offset explicit in the reinsurance agreements. All other reinsurance agreements are reported on a gross basis in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets as an asset for amounts recoverable from reinsurers or as a component of other liabilities for amounts, such as premiums, owed to the reinsurers, with the exception of amounts for which the right of offset also exists. Premiums and benefits are reported net of insurance ceded. Front Street Re (Cayman) Ltd (“FSRCI”) Effective December 31, 2012, FGL Insurance entered into a reinsurance treaty with FSRCI, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of HRG, FGL’s parent, whereby FGL Insurance ceded 10% of its June 30, 2012 in-force annuity block business not already reinsured on a funds withheld basis. Effective September 17, 2014, FGL Insurance entered into a second reinsurance treaty with FSRCI whereby FGL Insurance ceded 30% of any new business of its multi-year guaranteed annuity block of business ("MYGA") issued effective September 17, 2014 and later on a funds withheld basis. Under the terms of the agreement, no initial ceding commission was paid as all of the underlying business is new business. The September 17, 2014 treaty was subsequently terminated as to new business effective April 30, 2015, but will remain in effect for policies ceded to FSRCI with an effective date between September 17, 2014 and April 30, 2015. Accordingly, policies issued with an effective date of May 1, 2015 and later will not be ceded to FSRCI.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes FGL and certain of its non-life insurance subsidiaries are included in the consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return of HRG. The Company’s life insurance subsidiaries file a consolidated life insurance income tax return. Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The Company assesses the recoverability of its deferred tax assets in each reporting period under the guidance outlined within Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 740, “Income Taxes”. The guidance requires an assessment of both positive and negative evidence in determining the realizability of deferred tax assets. A valuation allowance is required to reduce the Company’s deferred tax asset to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized. In determining the net deferred tax asset and valuation allowance, management is required to make judgments and estimates related to projections of future profitability. These judgments include the following: the timing and extent of the utilization of net operating loss carry-forwards, the reversals of temporary differences, and tax planning strategies. Because of the change in facts and circumstances described in "Note 11. Income Taxes" to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements , during the year ended September 30, 2014 the Company determined that a portion of its existing deferred tax assets that had previously had a valuation allowance placed against them, were now more likely than not recoverable. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company has the ability and intent to recover in a tax-free manner assets (or liabilities) with book/tax basis differences for which no deferred taxes have been provided, in accordance with ASC Topic 740 "Income Taxes". The Company applies the accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions which prescribes a minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. The guidance also provides information on de-recognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. Accrued interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recorded in “Income tax expense (benefit)” in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations . The Company had no unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 .
Contractholder Funds	Contractholder Funds The liabilities for contractholder funds for deferred annuities, IUL and UL policies consist of contract account balances that accrue to the benefit of the contractholders. The liabilities for FIAs consist of the value of the host contract plus the value of the embedded derivative. The embedded derivative is carried at fair value in “Contractholder funds” in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets with changes in fair value reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Liabilities for immediate annuities without life contingencies are recorded at the present value of future benefits. Liabilities for the secondary guarantees on UL-type products or Investment-type contracts are calculated by multiplying the benefit ratio by the cumulative assessments recorded from contract inception through the balance sheet date less the cumulative secondary guarantee benefit payments plus interest. If experience or assumption changes result in a new benefit ratio, the reserves are adjusted to reflect the changes in a manner similar to the unlocking of DAC and VOBA. The accounting for secondary guarantee benefits impacts, and is impacted by, EGPs used to calculate amortization of DAC and VOBA.
Future Policy Benefits	Future Policy Benefits The liabilities for future policy benefits and claim reserves for traditional life policies and life contingent pay-out annuity policies are computed using assumptions for investment yields, mortality and withdrawals based principally on generally accepted actuarial methods and assumptions at the time of contract issue. Investment yield assumptions for traditional direct life reserves for all contracts range from 5.8% to 6.2% . The investment yield assumptions for life contingent pay-out annuities range from 0.8% to 6.0% .
Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Agreements	Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Agreements Contractholder funds include funds related to funding agreements that have been issued by the Company to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (“FHLB”) as a funding medium for single premium funding agreements.
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Contingencies arising from environmental remediation costs, regulatory judgments, claims, assessments, guarantees, litigation, recourse reserves, fines, penalties and other sources are recorded when deemed probable and reasonably estimable.
Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements	Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements Share-Based Payments When a Performance Target is Achieved after the Requisite Service Period In June 2014, FASB issued new guidance on Stock Compensation ( Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Term of an Award Provide that a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those years. The new guidance requires performance targets that affect vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period to be treated as performance conditions. Such performance targets will not be included in the grant-date fair value calculation of the award, rather compensation cost will be recorded when it is probable the performance target will be reached and should represent the compensation cost attributable to period(s) for which the requisite service has already been rendered. The Company adopted this guidance effective October 1, 2016, as required. The adoption of ASU 2014-12 did not impact the Company's consolidated financial statements or related disclosures, as the Company has historically treated the performance targets for its share-based payment awards as a performance condition that affects vesting and has not reflected the targets in the grant-date fair value calculation of the awards. Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis In February 2015, the FASB issued amended consolidation guidance (ASU 2015-02, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The amended guidance changes the consolidation analysis of reporting entities with variable interest entity ("VIE") relationships by i) modifying the criteria used to evaluate whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are VIEs or voting interest entities and revising the primary beneficiary determination of a VIE, ii) eliminating the specialized consolidation model and guidance for limited partnerships thereby removing the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, iii) reducing the criteria in the variable interest model contained in Accounting Standards Codification Topic 810, Consolidation , that is used to evaluate whether the fees paid to a decision maker or service provider represents a variable interest, and iv) exempting reporting entities from consolidating money market funds that operate in accordance with Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Company adopted ASU 2015-02 effective October 1, 2016, as required. The adoption of ASU 2015-02 did not impact the Company's consolidated financial statements or related disclosure as the Company determined that this new guidance does not change its conclusions regarding consolidation of its VIEs. Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs In April 2015, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2015-03, Interest-Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30 ), Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those years. The amended guidance requires debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability to be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the debt liability, similar to the presentation of debt discounts or premiums. The cost of issuing debt will no longer be recorded as a separate asset, except when incurred before the receipt of the funding from the associated debt liability. Instead, debt issuance costs will be presented on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability, and the costs will be amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method. The Company adopted ASU 2015-03 effective October 1, 2016, as required. The Company retrospectively considered adjustments to adjust its historical balance sheets to present deferred debt issuance costs related to the Company's debt as a reduction of the debt liability. As the Company's debt issuance costs were fully amortized as of the period ended September 30, 2016, there is no impact to the current period financial statements. Accounting for Fees Paid in Cloud Computing Arrangements In April 2015, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2015-05, Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those years. Previous GAAP did not include explicit guidance regarding a customer's accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement, which may include software as a service, platform as a service, infrastructure as a service, and other similar hosting arrangements. The adopted guidance addresses whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If the cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The Company prospectively adopted ASU 2015-05 effective as of October 1, 2016, as required, for all new or materially modified cloud computing arrangements that contain a software license component. Investments That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share In May 2015, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2015-07, Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent) ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those years. Previous GAAP required that investments for which fair value is measured at net asset value (or its equivalent) using the practical expedient in Topic 820 be categorized within the fair value hierarchy using criteria that differ from the criteria used to categorize other fair value measurements within the hierarchy. Previously, investments valued using the practical expedient were categorized within the fair value hierarchy on the basis of whether the investment is redeemable with the investee at net asset value on the measurement date, never redeemable with the investee at net asset value, or redeemable with the investee at net asset value at a future date. For investments that are redeemable with the investee at a future date, a reporting entity will take into account the length of time until those investments become redeemable to determine the classification within the fair value hierarchy. There is diversity in practice related to how certain investments measured at net asset value with redemption dates in the future (including periodic redemption dates) are categorized within the fair value hierarchy. Under the amendments in this Update, investments for which fair value will be measured at net asset value per share (or its equivalent) using the practical expedient should not be categorized in the fair value hierarchy. Removing those investments from the fair value hierarchy not only eliminates the diversity in practice resulting from the way in which investments measured at net asset value per share (or its equivalent) with future redemption dates are classified, but also ensures that all investments categorized in the fair value hierarchy are classified using a consistent approach. Investments that calculate net asset value per share (or its equivalent), but for which the practical expedient is not applied will continue to be included in the fair value hierarchy. The Company adopted ASU 2015-07 effective October 1, 2016, as required, and has updated the fair value disclosures to reflect the amended guidance. Refer to "Note 6. Fair Value of Financial Instruments" for further details. Future Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements Revenue from Contracts with Customers In May 2014, the FASB issued new guidance on Revenue Recognition (ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those years. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) - Deferral of the Effective Date , which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year. The FASB also issued the following ASUs which clarify the guidance in ASU 2014-09: • ASU 2016-08 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) - Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) issued in March 2016 • ASU 2016-10 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) - Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing issued in April 2016 • ASU 2016-11 - Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) - Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting issued in May 2016 • ASU 2016-12 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) - Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients issued in May 2016 The guidance in ASU 2014-09 and the related ASUs supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Topic 605, Revenue Recognition , and most industry-specific guidance unless the contracts are within the scope of other standards (for example, financial instruments, insurance contracts or lease contracts). The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised 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 or services. The guidance establishes a five-step process to achieve this core principle. These standards may be early adopted. The amendments should be applied using either of two methods: retrospective to each prior reporting period presented with certain practical expedients, or retrospective with the cumulative effect of initial application recognized at the date of initial application subject to certain additional disclosures. The Company will not early adopt these standards. The Company has substantially completed its evaluation of these standards and expects that the adoption of these standards will have an insignificant impact on its consolidated financial statements as the Company’s primary sources of revenue, insurance contracts and financial instruments, are excluded from the scope of these standards. Presentation of Changes in Restricted Cash on the Cash Flow Statement In November 2016, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The ASU will require amounts generally described as changes in restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents to be included with cash and cash equivalents on the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted during any period or interim period, however, any adjustments should be reflected as of the beginning of the fiscal year that includes that interim period. The amendments should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. The Company will not early adopt this standard. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated statements of cash flows. Technical Corrections and Improvements In December 2016, the FASB issued new guidance on the Simplification of Topics Within Insurance and Debt Restructuring (ASU 2016-19, Technical Corrections and Improvements ), effective upon issuance for most amendments in the Update. For several items requiring transition guidance, the ASU identifies adoption dates specific to those items. The amendments cover a wide range of topics in the Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") and will correct differences between original guidance and the ASC, clarify guidance through updated wording or corrected references, and simplify guidance through minor editing. The amendments in this ASU that do not require transition guidance were effective upon issuance, however, those that require transition guidance may be early adopted. The Company adopted the amendments that do not require transition guidance upon issuance of ASU 2016-19 with no impact on its financial statements. The Company will not early adopt the guidance in this standard that require transition guidance. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities In March 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on the amortization of callable securities (ASU 2017-08, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2017-08 may be early adopted. The ASU will require premiums paid on purchased debt securities with an explicit call option to be amortized to the earliest call date, as opposed to the maturity date (as under current GAAP). The updated guidance is applicable to instruments that are callable based on explicit, non-contingent call features that are callable at fixed prices on preset dates. The amendments in this update should be applied using the modified retrospective method through a cumulative effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. The Company will not early adopt this standard and is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. Scope of Modification Accounting for Stock Compensation In May 2017, the FASB issued new guidance on the scope of modification accounting for stock compensation (ASU 2017-09, Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Scope of Modification Accounting) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. ASU 2017-09 may be early adopted. The ASU provides guidance on which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award would require an entity to apply modification accounting in Topic 718, Stock Compensation . Under the new guidance, an entity would account for the effects of a modification unless the fair value of the modified award is the same as the fair value of the original award, the vesting conditions of the modified award are the same as the vesting conditions of the original award, and the classification of the modified award (equity instrument or liability instrument) is the same as the classification of the original award, all immediately before the original award is modified. The amendments in this update should be applied prospectively to an award modified on or after the adoption date. The Company will not early adopt this standard. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Amendments to Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities In January 2016, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments- Overall (Subtopic 825-10), Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Notable amendments in this update will: • require all equity securities (other than equity investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting or requiring the consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized through net income. Equity securities may be measured at cost minus impairment that do not have readily determinable fair values • require qualitative assessment for impairment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values at each reporting period and, if the qualitative assessment indicates that impairment exists, to measure the investment at fair value • eliminate the requirement to disclose the methods and significant assumptions used to estimate fair value (which is currently required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet) The amendments in this ASU should be applied by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, and the amendments related to equity securities without readily determinable fair values should be applied prospectively to equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. The Company will not early adopt this standard and is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. Amendments to Lease Accounting In February 2016, the FASB issued amended guidance (ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ), effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Notable amendments in this update will: • require entities to recognize the rights and obligations resulting from all leases or lease components of contracts, including operating leases, as lease assets and lease liabilities, with an exception allowed for leases with a term of 12 months or less • create a distinction between finance leases and operating leases, with classification criteria substantially similar to that for distinguishing between capital leases and operating leases under previous guidance • not retain the accounting model for leveraged leases under previous guidance for leases that commence after the effective date of ASU 2016-02 • provide additional guidance on separating the lease components from the nonlease components of a contract • require qualitative disclosures along with specific quantitative disclosures to provide information regarding the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases • include modifications to align lessor accounting with the changes to lessee accounting, as well as changes to the requirements of recognizing a transaction as a sale and leaseback transaction, however, these changes will have no impact on the Company's current lease arrangements The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted. The amendments are required to be applied at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach (including several optional practical expedients related to leases commenced before the effective date). The Company will not early adopt this standard and is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. New Credit Loss Standard In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance (ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326), Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Notable amendments in this update will change the accounting for impairment of most financial assets and certain other instruments in the following ways: • financial assets (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost will be required to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, with an allowance for credit losses deducted from the amortized cost basis, resulting in a net carrying value that reflects the amount the entity expects to collect on the financial asset at purchase • credit losses relating to available-for-sale fixed maturity securities will be recorded through an allowance for credit losses, rather than reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. The allowance methodology recognizes that value may be realized either through collection of contractual cash flows or through the sale of the security. Therefore, the amount of the allowance for credit losses will be limited to the amount by which fair value is below amortized cost because the classification as available for sale is premised on an investment strategy that recognizes that the investment could be sold at fair value, if cash collection would result in the realization of an amount less than fair value • the income statement will reflect the measurement of expected credit losses for newly recognized financial assets as well as the expected increases or decreases (including the reversal of previously recognized losses) of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount • disclosures will be required to include information around how the credit loss allowance was developed, further details on information currently disclosed about credit quality of financing receivables and net investments in leases, and a rollforward of the allowance for credit losses for available-for-sale fixed maturity securities as well as an aging analysis for securities that are past due The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted during any interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. Statement of Cash Flows Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance (ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Notable amendments in this update will change the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments in the Statement of Cash Flows in the following ways: • cash payments for debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs will be classified as cash outflows for financing activities • the settlement of zero-coupon debt instruments or other debt instruments with coupon interest rates that are insignificant in relation to the effective interest rate of the borrowing should be classified as follows: the portion of the cash payment attributable to the accreted interest related to the debt discount as cash outflows for operating activities, and the portion of the cash payment attributable to the principal as cash outflows for financing activities • a reporting entity must make an accounting policy election to classify distributions received from equity method investees using either: ◦ the cumulative earnings approach, which considers distributions received as returns on the investment and are classified as cash inflows from operating activities (with an exception when cumulative distributions received less distributions received in prior periods that were classified as returns of investment exceeds cumulative equity in earnings, in which case the current period distribution up to this excess amount will be considered a return of investment and classified as cash inflows from investing activities); or ◦ the nature of the distribution approach, which classifies distributions received based on the nature of the activity or activities of the investee that generated the distribution (would be considered either a return on investment and classified as cash inflows from operating activities or a return of investment and classified as cash inflows from investing activities) • in the absence of specific GAAP guidance, an entity should classify cash receipts and payments that have aspects of more than one class of cash flows by determining and appropriately classifying each separately identifiable source or use within the cash receipts and cash payments on the basis of the underlying cash flows. If cash receipts and payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows and cannot be separated by source or use, the activity that is likely to be the predominant source or use of cash flows for the item will determine the classification. The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted, including adoption during an interim period. The amendments in the update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented (except where impracticable to apply retrospectively; those specific amendments would be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable). The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. Interests Held through Related Parties That Are under Common Control In October 2016, the FASB issued new guidance (ASU 2016-17, Consolidation (Topic 810), Interests Held through Related Parties That Are under Common Control) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Under this update: • the characteristics of a primary beneficiary do not change, but the way in which their existence is determined does change • in determining whether there exists an obligation to absorb the losses of, or to receive benefits from, a VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE (the second characteristic of a primary beneficiary), an entity will be required to include all of its direct variable interests in a VIE and, on a proportionate basis (as opposed to in its entirety as under current guidance), its indirect variable interests in a VIE held through related parties (including related parties under common control with the reporting entity) The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted during any interim or annual period, however, if adopted during an interim period other than the first interim period, the entity should reflect the cumulative effect of the accounting change as of the beginning of the fiscal year. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new accounting guidance on its consolidated financial statements. Income Taxes - Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory In October 2016, the FASB issued new guidance (ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740), Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory) , effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 including interim periods within those fiscal years. Under this update: • an entity should recognize current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory at the time of the transfer • the entity will no longer delay recognition of the income tax consequences of these types of intra-entity asset transfers until the asset has been sold to an outside party, as is practiced under current guidance The amendments in this ASU may be early adopted as of the beginning of an annual reporting period for which financial statements have not yet been issued, including interim financial statements. The Company does not have any intra-entity asset transfers, therefore this new accounting guidance will have no impact on its consolidated financial statements.

Basis of Presentation and Nat33

Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Premiums and Annuity Deposits, net of Coinsurance, Not Included as Revenue [Table Text Block]	Therefore, we have only one reporting segment. Premiums and annuity deposits (net of coinsurance), which are not included as revenues (except for traditional premiums) in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations, collected during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , by product type were as follows: Year ended September 30, Product Type 2017 2016 2015 Fixed indexed annuities $ 1,892 $ 1,861 $ 2,185 Fixed rate annuities 556 539 211 Single premium immediate annuities 15 28 16 Life insurance (a) 176 181 163 Total $ 2,639 $ 2,609 $ 2,575 (a) Life insurance includes Universal Life (“UL”) and traditional life insurance products.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Consolidated Investments	The Company’s consolidated investments at September 30, 2017 and 2016 are summarized as follows: September 30, 2017 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Carrying Value Available-for sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 2,852 $ 38 $ (5 ) $ 2,885 $ 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 974 14 (10 ) 978 978 Corporates 12,027 794 (91 ) 12,730 12,730 Equities 733 42 (2 ) 773 773 Hybrids 1,388 93 (16 ) 1,465 1,465 Municipals 1,573 163 (10 ) 1,726 1,726 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,144 124 (5 ) 1,263 1,263 U.S. Government 105 2 — 107 107 Total available-for-sale securities 20,796 1,270 (139 ) 21,927 21,927 Derivative investments 225 190 (2 ) 413 413 Commercial mortgage loans 547 — — 552 547 Other invested assets 185 — — 182 185 Total investments $ 21,753 $ 1,460 $ (141 ) $ 23,074 $ 23,072 September 30, 2016 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Carrying Value Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 2,528 $ 16 $ (45 ) $ 2,499 $ 2,499 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 850 23 (9 ) 864 864 Corporates 10,712 760 (132 ) 11,340 11,340 Equities 640 47 (4 ) 683 683 Hybrids 1,356 77 (47 ) 1,386 1,386 Municipals 1,515 206 (4 ) 1,717 1,717 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,327 63 (28 ) 1,362 1,362 U.S. Government 233 10 — 243 243 Total available-for-sale securities 19,161 1,202 (269 ) 20,094 20,094 Derivative investments 221 78 (23 ) 276 276 Commercial mortgage loans 595 — — 614 595 Other invested assets 60 — — 58 60 Total investments $ 20,037 $ 1,280 $ (292 ) $ 21,042 $ 21,025
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Fixed Maturity Available-for-Sale Securities	The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity available-for-sale securities by contractual maturities, as applicable, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or pre-pay obligations. September 30, 2017 Amortized Cost Fair Value Corporates, Non-structured Hybrids, Municipal and U.S. Government securities: Due in one year or less $ 342 $ 342 Due after one year through five years 1,765 1,825 Due after five years through ten years 3,225 3,377 Due after ten years 8,987 9,689 Subtotal 14,319 15,233 Other securities which provide for periodic payments: Asset-backed securities 2,852 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 974 978 Structured hybrids 774 795 Residential mortgage-backed securities 1,144 1,263 Subtotal 5,744 5,921 Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities $ 20,063 $ 21,154
Fair Value and Gross Unrealized Losses of Available-for-Sale-Securities	The fair value and gross unrealized losses of available-for-sale securities, aggregated by investment category and duration of fair value below amortized cost, were as follows: September 30, 2017 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 487 $ (2 ) $ 305 $ (3 ) $ 792 $ (5 ) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 222 (4 ) 163 (6 ) 385 (10 ) Corporates 978 (16 ) 752 (75 ) 1,730 (91 ) Equities 28 — 17 (2 ) 45 (2 ) Hybrids 36 — 290 (16 ) 326 (16 ) Municipals 154 (3 ) 48 (7 ) 202 (10 ) Residential mortgage-backed securities 6 — 120 (5 ) 126 (5 ) U.S. Government 26 — — — 26 — Total available-for-sale securities $ 1,937 $ (25 ) $ 1,695 $ (114 ) $ 3,632 $ (139 ) Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position less than twelve months 316 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or longer 295 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position 611 September 30, 2016 Less than 12 months 12 months or longer Total Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale securities Asset-backed securities $ 352 $ (4 ) $ 1,368 $ (41 ) $ 1,720 $ (45 ) Commercial mortgage-backed securities 44 (1 ) 182 (8 ) 226 (9 ) Corporates 413 (9 ) 1,031 (123 ) 1,444 (132 ) Equities 51 (1 ) 75 (3 ) 126 (4 ) Hybrids 41 (2 ) 412 (45 ) 453 (47 ) Municipals 69 (2 ) 38 (2 ) 107 (4 ) Residential mortgage-backed securities 70 (1 ) 544 (27 ) 614 (28 ) Total available-for-sale securities $ 1,040 $ (20 ) $ 3,650 $ (249 ) $ 4,690 $ (269 ) Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position less than twelve months 193 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or longer 543 Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position 736
Reconciliation of Other-than-Temporary Impairment on Fixed Maturity	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the credit loss portion of OTTI on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities held by the Company for the years ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 , for which a portion of the OTTI was recognized in AOCI: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 3 $ 3 Increases attributable to credit losses on securities: OTTI was previously recognized — — OTTI was not previously recognized — — Ending balance $ 3 $ 3 Details underlying write-downs taken as a result of OTTI that were recognized in "Net income" and included in net realized gains on securities were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 OTTI Recognized in Net income: Asset-backed securities $ 2 $ 12 $ 36 Corporates 20 6 2 Related party loans — 4 — Residential mortgage-backed securities — — 8 Other invested assets — 22 36 Total $ 22 $ 44 $ 82
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable	September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Gross balance commercial mortgage loans $ 548 $ 596 Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Net balance commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 The distribution of CMLs, gross of valuation allowances, by property type and geographic region is reflected in the following tables: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Gross Carrying Value % of Total Gross Carrying Value % of Total Property Type: Funeral Home $ 1 — % $ 1 — % Hotel 23 4 % 23 4 % Industrial - General 45 8 % 58 10 % Industrial - Warehouse 38 7 % 64 11 % Multifamily 68 13 % 70 11 % Office 157 29 % 160 27 % Retail 216 39 % 220 37 % Total commercial mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowance $ 548 100 % $ 596 100 % Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Total commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595 U.S. Region: East North Central $ 108 20 % $ 137 23 % East South Central 20 4 % 21 4 % Middle Atlantic 85 16 % 97 16 % Mountain 67 12 % 67 12 % New England 13 2 % 14 2 % Pacific 134 24 % 136 23 % South Atlantic 66 12 % 67 11 % West North Central 14 2 % 14 2 % West South Central 41 8 % 43 7 % Total commercial mortgage loans, gross of valuation allowance $ 548 100 % $ 596 100 % Allowance for loan loss (1 ) (1 ) Total commercial mortgage loans $ 547 $ 595
Schedule of Investment in Mortgage Loans by Loan to Value and Debt Service Coverage Ratios	The following table presents the recorded investment in CMLs by LTV and DSC ratio categories and estimated fair value by the indicated loan-to-value ratios at September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 : Debt-Service Coverage Ratios Total Amount % of Total Estimated Fair Value % of Total >1.25 1.00 - 1.25 <1.00 N/A(a) September 30, 2017 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 222 $ — $ — $ 1 $ 223 41 % $ 226 41 % 50% to 60% 232 — — — 232 42 % 233 42 % 60% to 75% 86 7 — — 93 17 % 93 17 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 540 $ 7 $ — $ 1 $ 548 100 % $ 552 100 % September 30, 2016 LTV Ratios: Less than 50% $ 158 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 177 29 % $ 181 29 % 50% to 60% 189 — — — 189 32 % 194 32 % 60% to 75% 230 — — — 230 39 % 239 39 % Commercial mortgage loans $ 577 $ 18 $ — $ 1 $ 596 100 % $ 614 100 % (a) N/A - Current DSC ratio not available.
Past Due Financing Receivables	The following provides the current and past due composition of our CMLs: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Current to 30 days $ 548 $ 596 Past due — — Total carrying value $ 548 $ 596
Net Investment Income	The major sources of “Net investment income” on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale $ 953 $ 869 $ 799 Equity securities, available-for-sale 41 32 33 Commercial mortgage loans 23 24 11 Related party loans — 4 6 Invested cash and short-term investments 3 3 2 Other investments 7 9 20 Gross investment income 1,027 941 871 Investment expense (22 ) (18 ) (20 ) Net investment income $ 1,005 $ 923 $ 851
Net Investment Gains	Details underlying “Net investment gains (losses)” reported on the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net realized (losses) gains on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities $ (20 ) $ 11 $ 11 Realized gains (losses) on equity securities 3 1 — Change in fair value of other derivatives and embedded derivatives 3 — 7 Realized losses on other invested assets (2 ) (26 ) (40 ) Net realized (losses) gains on available-for-sale securities (16 ) (14 ) (22 ) Realized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 219 (84 ) 108 Unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments 129 166 (215 ) Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative (16 ) (49 ) 92 Realized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives and reinsurance-related embedded derivatives 332 33 (15 ) Net investment gains (losses) $ 316 $ 19 $ (37 )

Derivative Financial Instrume35

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Fair Value of Outstanding Derivative Contracts in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	The carrying amounts of derivative instruments, including derivative instruments embedded in FIA contracts, is as follows: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Assets: Derivative investments: Call options $ 413 $ 276 Futures contracts — — Other invested assets: Other derivatives and embedded derivatives 15 13 Other assets: Reinsurance related embedded derivative 103 119 $ 531 $ 408 Liabilities: Contractholder funds: FIA embedded derivative $ 2,627 $ 2,383 Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities Call options payable to FSRCI 15 11 $ 2,642 $ 2,394
Schedule of Change in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments	The change in fair value of derivative instruments included in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations is as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Net investment (losses) gains: Call options $ 338 $ 74 $ (100 ) Futures contracts 10 8 (7 ) Other derivatives and embedded derivatives 3 — 7 Reinsurance related embedded derivative (16 ) (49 ) 92 $ 335 $ 33 $ (8 ) Benefits and other changes in policy reserves: FIA embedded derivatives $ 244 $ 234 $ 241
FGL's Exposure to Credit Loss on Call Options Held	Information regarding the Company’s exposure to credit loss on the call options it holds is presented in the following table: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Counterparty Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a) Notional Amount Fair Value Collateral Net Credit Risk Notional Amount Fair Value Collateral Net Credit Risk Merrill Lynch A/*/A+ $ 3,164 $ 144 $ 105 $ 39 $ 2,302 $ 55 $ 10 $ 45 Deutsche Bank A-/A3/A- 972 32 32 — 1,620 46 12 34 Morgan Stanley */A1/A+ 1,556 82 87 (5 ) 2,952 87 58 29 Barclay's Bank A*+/A1/A- 2,163 73 74 (1 ) 1,389 39 — 39 Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce AA-/Aa3/A+ 2,459 82 83 (1 ) 1,623 49 48 1 Total $ 10,314 $ 413 $ 381 $ 32 $ 9,886 $ 276 $ 128 $ 148 (a) An * represents credit ratings that were not available.

Fair Value of Financial Instr36

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Carrying at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following tables provide the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments that are carried on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at amounts other than fair value, summarized according to the fair value hierarchy previously described. September 30, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Estimated Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Commercial mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 552 $ 552 $ 547 Policy loans, included in other invested assets — — 14 14 17 Related party loans — — 71 71 71 Total $ — $ — $ 637 $ 637 $ 635 Liabilities Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 16,076 $ 16,076 $ 18,165 Debt — 309 105 414 405 Total $ — $ 309 $ 16,181 $ 16,490 $ 18,570 September 30, 2016 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Estimated Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Commercial mortgage loans $ — $ — $ 614 $ 614 $ 595 Policy loans, included in other invested assets — — 13 13 14 Related party loans — — 71 71 71 Total $ — $ — $ 698 $ 698 $ 680 Liabilities Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 14,884 $ 14,884 $ 16,868 Debt — 300 100 400 400 Total $ — $ 300 $ 14,984 $ 15,284 $ 17,268 The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments for which the disclosure of fair values is required, including financial assets and liabilities measured and carried at fair value on a recurring basis, with the exception of investment contracts, related party loans, portions of other invested assets and debt which are disclosed later within this footnote, was summarized according to the hierarchy previously described, as follows: September 30, 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 885 $ — $ — $ 885 $ 885 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities — 2,711 174 2,885 2,885 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 883 95 978 978 Corporates — 11,616 1,114 12,730 12,730 Hybrids — 1,455 10 1,465 1,465 Municipals — 1,688 38 1,726 1,726 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 1,263 — 1,263 1,263 U.S. Government 75 32 — 107 107 Equity securities, available-for-sale 10 718 2 730 730 Derivative financial instruments — 413 — 413 413 Reinsurance related embedded derivative, included in other assets — 103 — 103 103 Other invested assets — — 16 16 16 Total financial assets at fair value $ 970 $ 20,882 $ 1,449 $ 23,301 $ 23,301 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 2,627 $ 2,627 $ 2,627 Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities — 15 — 15 15 Total financial liabilities at fair value $ — $ 15 $ 2,627 $ 2,642 $ 2,642 September 30, 2016 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value Carrying Amount Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 864 $ — $ — $ 864 $ 864 Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities — 2,327 172 2,499 2,499 Commercial mortgage-backed securities — 785 79 864 864 Corporates — 10,219 1,121 11,340 11,340 Hybrids — 1,386 — 1,386 1,386 Municipals — 1,676 41 1,717 1,717 Residential mortgage-backed securities — 1,362 — 1,362 1,362 U.S. Government 61 182 — 243 243 Equity securities available-for-sale 22 617 3 642 642 Derivative financial instruments — 276 — 276 276 Reinsurance related embedded derivative, included in other assets — 119 — 119 119 Other invested assets — — 34 34 34 Total financial assets at fair value $ 947 $ 18,949 $ 1,450 $ 21,346 $ 21,346 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ — $ — $ 2,383 $ 2,383 $ 2,383 Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities — 11 — 11 11 Total financial liabilities at fair value $ — $ 11 $ 2,383 $ 2,394 $ 2,394
Schedule of Unobservable Inputs Used for Level Three Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments on Recurring Basis	Quantitative information regarding significant unobservable inputs used for recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of financial instruments carried at fair value as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows: Fair Value at Range (Weighted average) September 30, 2017 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input(s) September 30, 2017 Assets Asset-backed securities $ 173 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 92.00% - 102.50% Asset-backed securities 1 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.88% - 99.88% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 92 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 99.50% - 123.84% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 3 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.63% - 99.63% Corporates 827 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 61.00% - 112.51% Corporates 287 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 94.17% - 116.19% Hybrids 10 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 100.42% - 100.42% Municipals 38 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 112.17% - 112.17% Equity securities available-for-sale (Salus preferred equity) 2 Income-approach Yield 5.00% Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 16 Black scholes model Market value of AnchorPath fund 100.00% Total $ 1,449 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,627 Discounted Cash Flow Market value of option 0.00% - 27.81% SWAP rates 2.00% - 2.29% Mortality multiplier 80.00% - 80.00% Surrender rates 0.50% - 75.00% Non-performance spread 0.25% - 0.25% Future option budget 1.13% - 5.57% Total liabilities at fair value $ 2,627 Fair Value at Range (Weighted average) September 30, 2016 Valuation Technique Unobservable Input(s) September 30, 2016 Assets Asset-backed securities $ 144 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 97.54% - 101.55% Asset-backed securities 9 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 98.75% Asset-backed securities (Salus CLO equity tranche) 19 Third-Party Valuation Offered quotes 28.37% Discount rate 15.00% RSH Recovery 5.50% Other loan recoveries 0.00% - 100.00% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 75 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 104.31% - 122.19% Commercial mortgage-backed securities 4 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 98.41% - 98.41% Corporates 920 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 50.00% - 118.33% Corporates 201 Matrix Pricing Quoted prices 99.00% - 150.23% Municipals 41 Broker-quoted Offered quotes 119.04% - 119.04% Equity securities available-for-sale (Salus preferred equity) 3 Market-approach Yield 11.00% RSH Recovery 5.50% Discount rate 15.00% Salus CLO Equity 28.37% Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 13 Black-Scholes Model Market value of AnchorPath fund 100.00% Loan participations - Other 2 Market Pricing Offered quotes 100.00% Loan participations - JSN Jewellery Inc. 17 Liquidation value – 52.5% Recovery Estimate Recovery estimate (wind-down costs) 49.93% - 56.67% Loan participation - Radioshack ("RSH") Corporation 2 Liquidation value – 5% Recovery Estimate Recovery estimate (wind-down costs) 1.36% - 14.28% Total $ 1,450 Liabilities Derivatives: FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,383 Discounted Cash Flow Market value of option 0.00% - 26.64% SWAP rates (discount rates) 1.18% - 1.46% Mortality multiplier 80.00% - 80.00% Surrender rates 0.50% - 75.00% Non-performance spread 0.25% - 0.25% Future option budget 1.15% - 5.57% Total liabilities at fair value $ 2,383
Changes in Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Assets	The following tables summarize changes to the Company’s financial instruments carried at fair value and classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. This summary excludes any impact of amortization of VOBA and DAC. The gains and losses below may include changes in fair value due in part to observable inputs that are a component of the valuation methodology. Year ended September 30, 2017 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 172 $ (2 ) $ 3 $ 152 $ — $ (40 ) $ (111 ) $ 174 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 79 — 1 18 — (1 ) (2 ) 95 Corporates 1,121 (1 ) (29 ) 189 (20 ) (109 ) (37 ) 1,114 Hybrids — — — 10 — — — 10 Municipals 41 — (2 ) — — (1 ) — 38 Equity securities available-for-sale 3 (2 ) 1 — — — — 2 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 13 3 — — — — — 16 Loan participations 21 (2 ) 1 — — (20 ) — — Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,450 $ (4 ) $ (25 ) $ 369 $ (20 ) $ (171 ) $ (150 ) $ 1,449 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2017 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2016 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 38 $ (12 ) $ 3 $ 141 $ — $ (3 ) $ 5 $ 172 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 144 — 4 — — (3 ) (66 ) 79 Corporates 964 — 32 154 (3 ) (26 ) — 1,121 Municipals 39 — 2 — — — — 41 Equity securities available-for-sale 9 — — — (6 ) — — 3 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 10 3 — — — — — 13 Loan participations 119 (21 ) 9 54 — (140 ) — 21 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,323 $ (30 ) $ 50 $ 349 $ (9 ) $ (172 ) $ (61 ) $ 1,450 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2016 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2015 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3 (a) Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 74 $ (37 ) $ 3 $ 73 $ (15 ) $ (31 ) $ (29 ) $ 38 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 83 — (2 ) 63 — — — 144 Corporates 834 4 10 202 (1 ) (61 ) (24 ) 964 Municipals 37 — 2 — — — — 39 Equity securities available-for-sale 40 (30 ) (1 ) — — — — 9 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 11 (1 ) — — — — — 10 Loan participations 213 (39 ) (5 ) 88 — (138 ) — 119 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,292 $ (103 ) $ 7 $ 426 $ (16 ) $ (230 ) $ (53 ) $ 1,323 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2015 were exclusively to Level 2.
Changes in Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Liabilities	The following tables summarize changes to the Company’s financial instruments carried at fair value and classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. This summary excludes any impact of amortization of VOBA and DAC. The gains and losses below may include changes in fair value due in part to observable inputs that are a component of the valuation methodology. Year ended September 30, 2017 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 172 $ (2 ) $ 3 $ 152 $ — $ (40 ) $ (111 ) $ 174 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 79 — 1 18 — (1 ) (2 ) 95 Corporates 1,121 (1 ) (29 ) 189 (20 ) (109 ) (37 ) 1,114 Hybrids — — — 10 — — — 10 Municipals 41 — (2 ) — — (1 ) — 38 Equity securities available-for-sale 3 (2 ) 1 — — — — 2 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 13 3 — — — — — 16 Loan participations 21 (2 ) 1 — — (20 ) — — Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,450 $ (4 ) $ (25 ) $ 369 $ (20 ) $ (171 ) $ (150 ) $ 1,449 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,383 $ 244 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,627 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2017 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2016 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 38 $ (12 ) $ 3 $ 141 $ — $ (3 ) $ 5 $ 172 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 144 — 4 — — (3 ) (66 ) 79 Corporates 964 — 32 154 (3 ) (26 ) — 1,121 Municipals 39 — 2 — — — — 41 Equity securities available-for-sale 9 — — — (6 ) — — 3 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 10 3 — — — — — 13 Loan participations 119 (21 ) 9 54 — (140 ) — 21 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,323 $ (30 ) $ 50 $ 349 $ (9 ) $ (172 ) $ (61 ) $ 1,450 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 2,149 $ 234 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,383 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2016 were exclusively to Level 2. Year ended September 30, 2015 Balance at Beginning Total Gains (Losses) Purchases Sales Settlements Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3 (a) Balance at End of Included in Included in Assets Fixed maturity securities available-for-sale: Asset-backed securities $ 74 $ (37 ) $ 3 $ 73 $ (15 ) $ (31 ) $ (29 ) $ 38 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 83 — (2 ) 63 — — — 144 Corporates 834 4 10 202 (1 ) (61 ) (24 ) 964 Municipals 37 — 2 — — — — 39 Equity securities available-for-sale 40 (30 ) (1 ) — — — — 9 Other invested assets: Available-for-sale embedded derivative 11 (1 ) — — — — — 10 Loan participations 213 (39 ) (5 ) 88 — (138 ) — 119 Total assets at Level 3 fair value $ 1,292 $ (103 ) $ 7 $ 426 $ (16 ) $ (230 ) $ (53 ) $ 1,323 Liabilities FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 Total liabilities at Level 3 fair value $ 1,908 $ 241 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 2,149 (a) The net transfers out of Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2015 were exclusively to Level 2.
Schedule of Net Asset Value	The following table includes assets that have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy as the fair value of these investments is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. For further discussion about this adoption see “Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies” to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements . Carrying Value After Measurement September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Equity securities available-for-sale $ 43 $ 41 Limited partnership investment, included in other invested assets 152 12

Intangible Assets (Tables)

Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Information Regarding VOBA and DAC	Information regarding VOBA and DAC which includes deferred sales inducement, is as follows: VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 19 $ 1,007 $ 1,026 Deferrals — 336 336 Adjustments Unlocking 32 (2 ) 30 Interest 11 46 57 Amortization (65 ) (215 ) (280 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment gains 3 (43 ) (40 ) Balance at September 30, 2017 $ — $ 1,129 $ 1,129 Accumulated amortization $ 418 VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 187 $ 801 $ 988 Deferrals — 350 350 Adjustments Unlocking 25 2 27 Interest 11 34 45 Amortization (41 ) (85 ) (126 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment gains (163 ) (95 ) (258 ) Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 19 $ 1,007 $ 1,026 Accumulated amortization $ 396 VOBA DAC Total Balance at September 30, 2014 $ 59 $ 456 $ 515 Deferrals — 317 317 Adjustments Unlocking 19 4 23 Interest 12 22 34 Amortization (68 ) (53 ) (121 ) Adjustment for unrealized investment losses 165 55 220 Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 187 $ 801 $ 988 Accumulated amortization $ 391
Estimated Amortization Expense for VOBA and DAC in Future Fiscal Periods	Estimated amortization expense for VOBA in future fiscal periods is as follows: Estimated Amortization Expense Fiscal Year VOBA 2018 $ 21 2019 21 2020 19 2021 16 2022 14 Thereafter 68

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt	The Company's outstanding debt as of September 30, 2017 and 2016 is as follows: September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016 Debt $ 300 $ 300 Revolving credit facility 105 100 The interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs of the Company's debt for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Interest Expense Amortization Interest Expense Amortization Interest Expense Amortization Debt $ 19 $ — $ 19 $ 2 $ 19 $ 4 Revolving credit facility 4 1 — 1 — 1

Equity (Tables)

Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Share Repurchase Program	The Company's share repurchase activity is shown in the table below. Shares (in thousands) Total Cost Shares purchased pursuant to the repurchase program 500 $ 11 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan 12 — Total shares of common stock at completion of repurchase program as of June 30, 2015 512 $ 11 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended December 31, 2015 22 1 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended March 31, 2016 3 — Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended December 31, 2016 28 1 Shares acquired to satisfy employee income tax withholding pursuant to the Company's stock compensation plan during the three months ended March 31, 2017 4 — Total shares of common stock repurchased as of September 30, 2017 569 $ 13
Dividends Declared	The Company declared the following cash dividends during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015: Date Declared Date Paid Date Shareholders of record Shareholders of record (in thousands) Cash Dividend declared (per share) Total cash paid November 18, 2014 December 15, 2014 December 1, 2014 58,279 $0.065 $4 February 10, 2015 March 9, 2015 February 23, 2015 57,975 $0.065 $4 May 1, 2015 June 1, 2015 May 18, 2015 57,932 $0.065 $4 July 31, 2015 August 31, 2015 August 17, 2015 57,976 $0.065 $4 November 12, 2015 December 14, 2015 November 30, 2015 58,144 $0.065 $4 February 2, 2016 March 7, 2016 February 22, 2016 58,210 $0.065 $4 April 28, 2016 May 30, 2016 May 16, 2016 58,211 $0.065 $4 August 1, 2016 September 6, 2016 August 22, 2016 58,211 $0.065 $4 November 10, 2016 December 12, 2016 November 28, 2016 58,245 $0.065 $4 February 2, 2017 March 6, 2017 February 21, 2017 58,308 $0.065 $4 May 1, 2017 June 5, 2017 May 22, 2017 58,315 $0.065 $4 July 27, 2017 August 28, 2017 August 14 , 2017 58,316 $0.065 $4

Stock Compensation (Tables)

Stock Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan	The Company recognized total stock compensation expense related to the FGL Plans and FGLH Plans as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 FGL Plans Stock options $ — $ — $ 1 Restricted shares 2 2 6 Performance restricted stock units 2 10 3 4 12 10 FGLH Plans Stock Incentive Plan - stock options 1 — 1 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan - stock options 2 1 5 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan - restricted stock units — — 2 2012 DEP — — 1 3 1 9 Total stock compensation expense 7 13 19 Related tax benefit 2 5 7 Net stock compensation expense $ 5 $ 8 $ 12
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan, Unrecognized	Total compensation expense related to the FGL Plans and FGLH Plans not yet recognized as of September 30, 2017 and the weighted-average period over which this expense will be recognized are as follows: Unrecognized Compensation Weighted Average Recognition FGL Plans Stock options $ — 1 Restricted shares 1 1 Performance restricted stock units 15 2 Total unrecognized stock compensation expense $ 16 1
Summary of Stock Options Outstanding and Related Activity	A summary of FGLH's outstanding stock options as of September 30, 2017 and related activity during the year then ended is as follows (share amount in thousands): FGLH Stock Option Awards Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2016 82 $ 44.82 Granted — — Exercised (12 ) 45.76 Forfeited or expired — — Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2017 70 44.66 Vested and exercisable at September 30, 2017 70 44.66 A summary of FGL’s outstanding stock options as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the period, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Stock Option Awards Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2016 346 $ 22.40 Granted 47 23.35 Exercised (15 ) 18.61 Forfeited or expired (14 ) 20.91 Stock options outstanding at September 30, 2017 364 22.74 Exercisable at September 30, 2017 203 21.21 Vested or projected to vest at September 30, 2017 364 22.74
Assumptions Used in Determination of Grant Date Fair Values Using Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model	The following assumptions were used in the determination of the grant date fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and based on the value of FGL's common stock for stock options granted during the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average fair value per options granted $2.57 $1.01 $4.96 Risk-free interest rate 1.11% 0.42% 1.41%-1.50% Assumed dividend yield 1.12% 1.14% 1.18%-1.19% Expected option term 2.0 years 0.5 years 4.5 years Volatility 20.00% 14.55% 25.00% The following assumptions were used in the determination of the grant date fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model for the former Chief Executive Officer's modified stock options and based on the value of FGL's common stock: Weighted average fair value per option modified $2.53 Risk-free interest rate 0.20% Assumed dividend yield 1.18% Expected option term 0.75 years Volatility 25.00% At September 30, 2017 , and 2016 , the liability for vested or expected to vest stock options was based on the fair values of the outstanding options. The following assumptions were used in the determination of these fair values using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and based on the value of FGLH's common stock: 2017 2016 Weighted average stock option fair value $121.82 $78.62 FGLH common stock fair value $166.81 $123.76 FGL common stock fair value $31.05 $23.19 Risk-free interest rate 1.04% 0.26% Assumed dividend yield 1.07% 1.12% Expected option term 0.25 years 0.25 years Volatility 5.0% 15.0%
Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity	A summary of nonvested PRSUs outstanding as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the period then ended, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Performance Restricted Stock Units (PRSUs) Shares Weighted Average Grant PRSUs outstanding at September 30, 2016 — $ — Granted 576 23.72 Vested (11 ) 17.82 Forfeited or expired — — PRSUs outstanding at September 30, 2017 565 27.65
Summary of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Outstanding and Related Activity	A summary of FGL’s nonvested restricted shares outstanding as of September 30, 2017 , and related activity during the year then ended, is as follows (share amount in thousands): Restricted Stock Awards Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested restricted shares outstanding at September 30, 2016 154 $ 22.91 Granted 29 23.35 Vested (90 ) 21.85 Forfeited (5 ) 22.73 Nonvested restricted shares outstanding at September 30, 2017 88 24.14

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign	Income tax (expense) benefit is calculated based upon the following components of income before income taxes: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Pretax income (loss): United States $ 333 $ 153 $ 182 Outside the United States — — — Total pretax income $ 333 $ 153 $ 182
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	The components of income tax (expense) benefit are as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Current: Federal $ (114 ) $ (5 ) $ (14 ) State — — — Total current $ (114 ) $ (5 ) $ (14 ) Deferred: Federal $ 4 $ (51 ) $ (50 ) State — — — Total deferred $ 4 $ (51 ) $ (50 ) Income tax (expense)/benefit $ (110 ) $ (56 ) $ (64 )
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The difference between income taxes expected at the U.S. Federal statutory income tax rate of 35% and reported income tax (expense) benefit is summarized as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Expected income tax (expense)/benefit at Federal statutory rate $ (117 ) $ (54 ) $ (64 ) Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets 1 69 (1 ) Amortization of low income housing tax credits (4 ) (2 ) (1 ) Benefit on LIHTC under proportional amortization method 5 3 1 Write off of expired capital loss carryforward — (73 ) — Dividends received deduction 4 1 2 Other 1 — (1 ) Reported income tax (expense)/benefit $ (110 ) $ (56 ) $ (64 ) Effective tax rate 33 % 37 % 35 %
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The following table is a summary of the components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss, credit and capital loss carryforwards $ 91 $ 93 Insurance reserves and claim related adjustments 601 511 Investments — — Other 75 44 Valuation allowance (49 ) (51 ) Total deferred tax assets $ 718 $ 597 Deferred tax liabilities: Value of business acquired $ — $ (7 ) Investments (456 ) (312 ) Deferred acquisition costs (316 ) (277 ) Other (8 ) (11 ) Total deferred tax liabilities $ (780 ) $ (607 ) Net deferred tax assets and (liabilities) $ (62 ) $ (10 )

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Unfunded Commitments	A summary of unfunded commitments by invested asset class are included below: Asset Type September 30, 2017 Other invested assets $ 116 Commercial mortgage loans 33 Equity securities, available-for-sale 27 Other assets 21 Total $ 197
Schedule of Minimum Rental Commitments	As of September 30, 2017 , the minimum rental commitments under the non-cancelable leases are as follows: Fiscal Year Amount 2018 $ 2 2019 2 2020 2 2021 1 2022 — Thereafter — Total $ 7

Reinsurance (Tables)

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Effect of Reinsurance on Premiums Earned, Benefits Incurred and Reserve Changes	The effect of reinsurance on premiums earned and benefits incurred and reserve changes (net benefits incurred) for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 were as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Net Premiums Earned Net Benefits Incurred Direct $ 233 $ 1,097 $ 261 $ 1,069 $ 260 $ 833 Assumed — — 1 1 — — Ceded (191 ) (254 ) (192 ) (279 ) (202 ) (255 ) Net $ 42 $ 843 $ 70 $ 791 $ 58 $ 578

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions	The Company’s gross realized gains and net realized impairment losses on related party investments as of September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016 are summarized as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Type Investment Income Classification Net realized gain (losses) Net realized gain (losses) Net realized gain (losses) Salus CLOs (a) Fixed maturities $ (2 ) $ (12 ) $ (37 ) Salus participations (b) Other invested assets — (19 ) (40 ) Salus preferred equity (c) Other invested assets (3 ) — (30 ) (a) Net of impairments of $2 , $11 , and $46 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (b) Net of impairments of $1 , $22 , and $36 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (c) Net of impairments of $0 , $0 , and $0 for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Below are the ceded operating results to FSRCI for the year ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended September 30, Revenues: 2017 2016 2015 Premiums $ 1 $ 3 $ 1 Net investment income 46 61 63 Net investment gains (losses) 15 (8 ) (30 ) Insurance and investment product fees 2 3 4 Total revenues 64 59 38 Benefits and expenses: Benefits and other changes in policy reserves (39 ) (47 ) (42 ) Acquisition & operating expenses, net of deferrals (3 ) (4 ) (4 ) Total benefits and expenses (42 ) (51 ) (46 ) Operating income (loss) $ 22 $ 8 $ (8 ) The Company paid management fees to these entities for the services provided under these agreements, which are usual and customary for these types of services, as follows: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Salus $ — $ — $ 1 CorAmerica Capital, LLC 1 0.000002 3 1 EIC — — — — The Company’s related party investments as of September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , and related net investment income for the years ended September 30, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 are summarized as follows: September 30, 2017 Type Balance Sheet Classification Asset carrying value Accrued Investment Income Total carrying value Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale $ 175 $ 2 $ 177 Spectrum Brands, Inc. Fixed maturities, available for sale 2 — — 2 2 Salus preferred equity (a) Equity securities, available for sale 2 — 2 HGI energy loan (b) Related party loans 71 — 71 (a) Salus preferred equity is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly all income on this asset is ceded to FSRCI. (b) The HGI energy loan is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly the income related to this portion is ceded to FSRCI. September 30, 2016 Type Balance Sheet Classification Asset carrying value Accrued Investment Income Total carrying value Salus CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale $ 19 $ — $ 19 Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities, available for sale 225 2 227 Salus preferred equity (a) Equity securities, available for sale 3 — 3 Salus participations (b) Other invested assets 21 — 21 HGI energy loan (c) Related party loans 71 — 71 (a) Salus preferred equity is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly all income on this asset is ceded to FSRCI. (b) Includes loan participations with 4 different borrowers with an average loan fair value of $5 as of September 30, 2016 (c) The HGI energy loan is included in the FSRCI funds withheld portfolio, accordingly the income related to this portion is ceded to FSRCI. Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Type Investment Income Classification Net investment income Net investment income Net investment income Salus CLOs Fixed maturities $ 1 $ 9 $ 11 Fortress Investment Group CLOs Fixed maturities 10 11 8 Salus participations Other invested assets — 4 15 EIC participations Other invested assets — 1 — HGI energy loan Related party loans — 4 5 Salus promissory note Related party loans — — 1

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Summary of Basic and Diluted EPS	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (share amounts in thousands): Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 2015 Net income attributable to common shares - basic $ 223 $ 97 $ 118 Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic 58,320 58,275 58,118 Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock & PRSU 43 271 208 Dilutive effect of stock options 52 32 35 Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted 58,415 58,578 58,361 Net income per common share: Basic $ 3.83 $ 1.67 $ 2.03 Diluted $ 3.83 $ 1.66 $ 2.02

Insurance Subsidiary Financia46

Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Insurance [Abstract]
Statutory Accounting Practices Disclosure	The Company’s principal insurance subsidiaries’ statutory financial statements are based on a December 31 year end. Statutory net income and statutory capital and surplus of the Company’s wholly-owned insurance subsidiaries were as follows: Subsidiary (state of domicile)(a) FGL Insurance (IA) FGL NY Insurance (NY) Statutory Net income (loss): Year ended December 31, 2016 $ 21 $ 4 Year ended December 31, 2015 (53 ) (1 ) Year ended December 31, 2014 105 2 Statutory Capital and Surplus: December 31, 2016 $ 1,323 $ 64 December 31, 2015 1,239 59 (a) FGL NY Insurance is a subsidiary of FGL Insurance, and the columns should not be added together.

Other Liabilities (Tables)

Other Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Other Liabilities	Other liabilities consisted of the following: Year ended September 30, 2017 2016 Amounts payable for investment purchases $ 173 $ 106 Retained asset account 194 221 Option collateral liabilities 276 118 Remittances and items not allocated 39 77 Amounts payable to reinsurers 36 36 Accrued expenses 55 60 Deferred reinsurance revenue 23 25 Other 101 103 Total $ 897 $ 746

Quarterly Results (Unaudited) (

Quarterly Results (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	Unaudited quarterly results of operations are summarized below. Quarter Ended September 30, 2017 June 30, 2017 March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 (Dollars in millions, except per share data) Premiums $ 16 $ 12 $ 3 $ 11 Net investment income 261 257 247 240 Net realized gains (losses) 117 67 81 51 Insurance and investment product fees and other 41 44 44 38 Total revenue 435 380 375 340 Total expenses 342 326 334 171 Net income 61 32 22 108 Net income per common share - basic 1.06 0.54 0.38 1.85 Net income per common share - diluted 1.06 0.54 0.38 1.85 Quarter Ended September 30, 2016 June 30, 2016 March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (Dollars in millions, except per share data) Premiums $ 18 $ 21 $ 16 $ 15 Net investment income 238 236 227 222 Net realized (losses) gains 26 (28 ) (42 ) 63 Insurance and investment product fees and other 34 32 32 29 Total revenue 316 261 233 329 Total expenses 262 240 212 250 Net income (loss) 30 10 9 48 Net income (loss) per common share - basic 0.52 0.16 0.16 0.82 Net income (loss) per common share - diluted 0.52 0.16 0.16 0.82

Basis of Presentation and Nat49

Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business - Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017segmentshares	May 24, 2017USD ($)$ / shares
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Shareholders' disclosure, common stock (in shares) | shares	47,000
Shareholders' disclosure, ownership percentage	80.00%
Reporting segments | segment	1
CF Corp [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Acquisition share price (in USD per share)		$ 31.10
Maximum quarterly cash dividend allowed before merger transaction closing (in dollars per share)		$ 0.065
Termination fee payable for termination of merger agreement | $		$ 50

Basis of Presentation and Nat50

Basis of Presentation and Nature of Business - Schedule of Premiums and Annuity Deposits, net of Coinsurance, Not Included in Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Premiums and annuity deposits, net of coinsurance, not included as revenue, excluding traditional premiums	$ 2,639	$ 2,609	$ 2,575
Fixed indexed annuities
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Premiums and annuity deposits, net of coinsurance, not included as revenue, excluding traditional premiums	1,892	1,861	2,185
Fixed rate annuities
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Premiums and annuity deposits, net of coinsurance, not included as revenue, excluding traditional premiums	556	539	211
Single premium immediate annuities
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Premiums and annuity deposits, net of coinsurance, not included as revenue, excluding traditional premiums	15	28	16
Traditional life insurance premiums
Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts [Line Items]
Premiums and annuity deposits, net of coinsurance, not included as revenue, excluding traditional premiums	$ 176	$ 181	$ 163

Significant Accounting Polici51

Significant Accounting Policies and Practices (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 17, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 27, 2017	Mar. 28, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 28, 2016
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents			$ 45,000,000			$ 465,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits			0			0
FHLB advances, short-term					$ 136,000,000		$ 157,000,000
FHLB advances, short-term, interest rate				1.41%	1.25%		0.73%
Reserves for funding agreements			659,000,000			584,000,000
FHLB collateral pledged			$ 729,000,000			$ 649,000,000
Fgl Reinsurance Agreement With Fsr [Member]
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Reinsurance arrangement in percentage	30.00%	10.00%
Fixed indexed annuities | Minimum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Interest crediting rates associated with subsidiaries			0.00%
Fixed indexed annuities | Maximum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Interest crediting rates associated with subsidiaries			6.00%
Indexed Universal Life | Minimum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Interest crediting rates associated with subsidiaries			3.00%
Indexed Universal Life | Maximum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Interest crediting rates associated with subsidiaries			4.50%
Traditional life insurance premiums | Minimum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Estimated investment yield			5.80%
Traditional life insurance premiums | Maximum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Estimated investment yield			6.20%
Life Contingent Payout Annuity | Minimum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Estimated investment yield			0.80%
Life Contingent Payout Annuity | Maximum
Federal Home Loan Bank, Advances, Branch of FHLB Bank [Line Items]
Estimated investment yield			6.00%

Significant Risks and Uncerta52

Significant Risks and Uncertainties - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)issuer	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)issuer	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Change in DAC and VOBA amortization	$ 40	$ 20	$ 55
Increase/(decrease) in liability for annuity contracts	$ 33	$ 22	$ 18
Exposure of FGL's invested assets	10.00%	10.00%
Number of issuers in investment | issuer	0	0
Wilton Reassurance Company
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Net amount recoverable	$ 1,535
Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd.
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Net amount recoverable	1,016
All Financial Instruments
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
FGL's investment securities in the banking industry	$ 2,827	$ 2,448
Exposure of FGL's invested assets	12.00%	12.00%
Number of issuers in investment | issuer	115
Percentage of total holdings in industry	30.00%
Single Issuer
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
FGL's investment securities in the banking industry	$ 155	$ 171
Exposure of FGL's invested assets	1.00%	1.00%
Banking Industry | All Financial Instruments
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Investment securities held by subsidiaries subject to specialized industry accounting principles, amortized cost	$ 2,695	$ 2,352

Investments - Available-for-Sa

Investments - Available-for-Sale Securities Table (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	$ 20,796	$ 19,161
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,270	1,202
Gross Unrealized Losses	(139)	(269)
Fair Value	21,927	20,094
Carrying Value	21,927	20,094
Investments, Derivatives, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Derivatives, Amortized Cost	225	221
Derivatives, Gross Unrealized Gain	190	78
Derivatives, Gross Unrealized Loss	(2)	(23)
Derivative Investments, Fair Value	413	276
Derivative investments, Carrying Value	413	276
Other Investments, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Amortized Cost	547	595
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Gross Unrealized Loss	0	0
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Fair Value	552	614
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Carrying Value	547	595
Investments, Cost or Amortized Cost	21,753	20,037
Investments, Gross Unrealized Gain	1,460	1,280
Investments, Gross Unrealized Loss	(141)	(292)
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	23,074	21,042
Investments	23,072	21,025
Asset-backed securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	2,852	2,528
Gross Unrealized Gains	38	16
Gross Unrealized Losses	(5)	(45)
Fair Value	2,885	2,499
Carrying Value	2,885	2,499
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	974	850
Gross Unrealized Gains	14	23
Gross Unrealized Losses	(10)	(9)
Fair Value	978	864
Carrying Value	978	864
Corporates
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	12,027	10,712
Gross Unrealized Gains	794	760
Gross Unrealized Losses	(91)	(132)
Fair Value	12,730	11,340
Carrying Value	12,730	11,340
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	733	640
Gross Unrealized Gains	42	47
Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	(4)
Fair Value	773	683
Carrying Value	773	683
Hybrids
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	1,388	1,356
Gross Unrealized Gains	93	77
Gross Unrealized Losses	(16)	(47)
Fair Value	1,465	1,386
Carrying Value	1,465	1,386
Municipals
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	1,573	1,515
Gross Unrealized Gains	163	206
Gross Unrealized Losses	(10)	(4)
Fair Value	1,726	1,717
Carrying Value	1,726	1,717
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	1,144	1,327
Gross Unrealized Gains	124	63
Gross Unrealized Losses	(5)	(28)
Fair Value	1,263	1,362
Carrying Value	1,263	1,362
U.S. Government
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	105	233
Gross Unrealized Gains	2	10
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Fair Value	107	243
Carrying Value	107	243
Other invested assets
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Investment, Cost or Amortized Cost	185	60
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Fair Value	182	58
Carrying Value	185	60
Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member]
Other Investments, Fair Value to Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Commercial Mortgage Loans, Carrying Value	$ 547	$ 595

Investments - Amortized Cost a

Investments - Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Fixed Maturity Available-for-Sale Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Due in one year or less, Amortized Cost	$ 342
Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	1,765
Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	3,225
Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	8,987
Subtotal, Amortized Cost	14,319
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Amortized Cost	5,744
Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, Amortized Cost	20,063	$ 18,521
Due in one year or less, Fair Value	342
Due after one year through five years, Fair Value	1,825
Due after five years through ten years, Fair Value	3,377
Due after ten years, Fair Value	9,689
Subtotal, Fair Value	15,233
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Fair Value	5,921
Total fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, Fair Value	21,154
Asset-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Amortized Cost	2,852
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Fair Value	2,885
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Amortized Cost	974
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Fair Value	978
Structured hybrids
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Amortized Cost	774
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Fair Value	795
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Amortized Cost	1,144
Other securities which provide for periodic payments, Fair Value	$ 1,263

Investments - Fair Value and G

Investments - Fair Value and Gross Unrealized Losses of Available-for-Sale Securities (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)Security	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)Security
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	$ 1,937	$ 1,040
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months	(25)	(20)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	1,695	3,650
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(114)	(249)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	3,632	4,690
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	$ (139)	$ (269)
Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position less than twelve months | Security	316	193
Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position twelve months or longer | Security	295	543
Total number of available-for-sale securities in an unrealized loss position | Security	611	736
Asset-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	$ 487	$ 352
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months	(2)	(4)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	305	1,368
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(3)	(41)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	792	1,720
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(5)	(45)
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	222	44
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months	(4)	(1)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	163	182
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(6)	(8)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	385	226
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(10)	(9)
Corporates
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	978	413
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months	(16)	(9)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	752	1,031
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(75)	(123)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	1,730	1,444
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(91)	(132)
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	28	51
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months		(1)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	17	75
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(2)	(3)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	45	126
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(2)	(4)
Hybrids
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	36	41
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months		(2)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	290	412
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(16)	(45)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	326	453
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(16)	(47)
Municipals
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	154	69
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months	(3)	(2)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	48	38
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(7)	(2)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	202	107
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(10)	(4)
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	6	70
Available-for-sale securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months		(1)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	120	544
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	(5)	(27)
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	126	614
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	(5)	$ (28)
U.S. Government
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Less than 12 months	26
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, 12 months or longer	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or longer	0
Available-for-sale securities, Fair Value, Total	26
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	$ 0

Investments - Reconciliation o

Investments - Reconciliation of Other than Temporary Impairment on Fixed Maturity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 3	$ 3
Increases attributable to credit losses on securities:
OTTI was previously recognized	0	0
OTTI was not previously recognized	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	$ 3	$ 3

Investments - Other-than-Tempo

Investments - Other-than-Temporary Impairments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		$ 22	$ 44	$ 82
Asset-backed securities
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		2	12	36
Corporates
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		20	6	2
Related party loans
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		0	4	0
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		0	0	8
Other invested assets
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Total other-than-temporary impairments		$ 0	$ 22	$ 36
Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd.
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
OTTI, net of reinsurance	$ 20

Investments - Schedule of Comm

Investments - Schedule of Commercial Mortgage Loan Investment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 548	$ 596
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	100.00%	100.00%
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	$ 547	$ 595
Commercial mortgage loans, current and past due	0	0
Funeral Home
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 1	$ 1
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	0.00%	0.00%
Hotel
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 23	$ 23
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	4.00%	4.00%
Industrial - General
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 45	$ 58
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	8.00%	10.00%
Industrial - Warehouse
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 38	$ 64
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	7.00%	11.00%
Multifamily
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 68	$ 70
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	13.00%	11.00%
Office
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 157	$ 160
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	29.00%	27.00%
Retail
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 216	$ 220
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	39.00%	37.00%
1 to 29 Days Past Due
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans, current and past due	$ 548	$ 596
LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 223	$ 177
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	41.00%	29.00%
LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 232	$ 189
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	42.00%	32.00%
LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 93	$ 230
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	17.00%	39.00%
East North Central
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 108	$ 137
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	20.00%	23.00%
East South Central
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 20	$ 21
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	4.00%	4.00%
Middle Atlantic
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 85	$ 97
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	16.00%	16.00%
Mountain
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 67	$ 67
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	12.00%	12.00%
New England
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 13	$ 14
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	2.00%	2.00%
Pacific
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 134	$ 136
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	24.00%	23.00%
South Atlantic
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 66	$ 67
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	12.00%	11.00%
West North Central
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 14	$ 14
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	2.00%	2.00%
West South Central
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 41	$ 43
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	8.00%	7.00%
Greater than 1.25
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 540	$ 577
Greater than 1.25 | LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	222	158
Greater than 1.25 | LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	232	189
Greater than 1.25 | LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	86	230
Greater than 1.00 but less than 1.25
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	7	18
Greater than 1.00 but less than 1.25 | LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	18
Greater than 1.00 but less than 1.25 | LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Greater than 1.00 but less than 1.25 | LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	7	0
Less than 1.00
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Less than 1.00 | LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Less than 1.00 | LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Less than 1.00 | LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Ratio Not Available
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	1	1
Ratio Not Available | LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	1	1
Ratio Not Available | LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Ratio Not Available | LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Fair Value
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 552	$ 614
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	100.00%	100.00%
Fair Value | LTV Less Than 50 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 226	$ 181
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	41.00%	29.00%
Fair Value | LTV 50 to 60 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 233	$ 194
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	42.00%	32.00%
Fair Value | LTV 60 to 75 Percent
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 93	$ 239
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	17.00%	39.00%
Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Commercial mortgage loans	$ 548	$ 596
Commercial mortgage loans, % of total	100.00%	100.00%
Allowance for loan loss	$ (1)	$ (1)
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	$ 547	$ 595

Investments - Net Investment I

Investments - Net Investment Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	$ 1,027	$ 941	$ 871
Investment expense	(22)	(18)	(20)
Net investment income	1,005	923	851
Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	953	869	799
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	41	32	33
Commercial mortgage loans
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	23	24	11
Related party loans
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	0	4	6
Invested cash and short-term investments
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	3	3	2
Other investments
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Gross investment income	$ 7	$ 9	$ 20

Investments - Net Investment G

Investments - Net Investment Gains (Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Net realized (losses) gains on fixed maturity available-for-sale securities									$ (20)	$ 11	$ 11
Realized gains on equity securities									3	1	0
Change in fair value of other derivatives and embedded derivatives									3	0	7
Realized losses on other invested assets									(2)	(26)	(40)
Net realized gains on securities									(16)	(14)	(22)
Realized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments									219	(84)	108
Unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments									129	166	(215)
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative									(16)	(49)	92
Realized gains (losses) on hedging derivatives and reinsurance-related embedded derivatives									332	33	(15)
Net investment gains (losses)	$ 117	$ 67	$ 81	$ 51	$ 26	$ (28)	$ (42)	$ 63	$ 316	$ 19	$ (37)

Investments - Narrative (Detai

Investments - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Jun. 13, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)loan	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)loan	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Non-income producing investment fair value					$ 0	$ 2
FHLB collateral pledged					729	649
Available for sale depressed securities fair value disclosure					$ 59	$ 183
Percentage of available for sale depressed securities above amortized cost					20.00%	20.00%
Percentage of available for sale depressed securities in relation to carrying value of investments					0.00%	1.00%
Other than temporary impairment credit losses recognized in earnings, including credit impairments					$ (22)	$ (40)	$ (74)
Other than temporary impairment credit losses recognized in earnings, reductions, change in status					0	(4)	(8)
Amortized cost					20,796	19,161
Fair Value					21,927	20,094
Other than temporary impairment, non-credit losses recognized in OCI					0	1	0
Realized gains (losses) on other invested assets					$ (2)	$ (26)	(40)
Number of delinquent CMLs | loan					0	0
Impaired loans, number | loan					0	0
Litigation settlement amount	$ 2	$ 2		$ 18
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Unrealized gain related to non-credit portion of OTTI included in AOCI					$ 1	$ 1
Unrealized losses related to non-credit portion of OTTI included in AOCI					(3)	(3)
Asset Backed Securities and Corporate Securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized cost					0	42	260
Fair Value					0	39	259
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized cost					1,144	1,327
Fair Value					1,263	1,362
Commitment to Invest
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment					197
Commitment to Invest | Crescent Capital BDC Inc.
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment								$ 75
Other Investments					42
Commitment to Invest | Golub Capital Partners 10, L.P. [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment					152
Other Investments					116
Available-for-sale Securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Assets held by insurance regulators					19,765	18,075
Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid:					$ 2,755	$ 2,264	4,947
Commercial mortgage loans
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Investments, costs or amortized, percentage of total investments					2.00%	3.00%
Ratio of performing loans to all loans					100.00%	100.00%
Loan to value, threshold					75.00%	75.00%
Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd.
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Recognized credit-related impairment losses, net of reinsurance			$ 20
Salus Capital Partners L L C | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Maximum loss exposure					$ 2	$ 22
Total fixed maturities | Available-for-sale Securities
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid:					703	1,318	3,200
Gain on sale of investments					25	40	104
Loss on sale of investments					$ (20)	$ (23)	$ (44)

Derivative Financial Instrume62

Derivative Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative [Line Items]
Total asset derivatives	$ 531	$ 408
Total liability derivatives	2,642	2,394
Call options | Derivative investments
Derivative [Line Items]
Total asset derivatives	413	276
Call options | Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities
Derivative [Line Items]
Total liability derivatives	15	11
Futures contracts | Derivative investments
Derivative [Line Items]
Total asset derivatives	0	0
Other derivatives and embedded derivatives | Other invested assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Total asset derivatives	15	13
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Other assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Total asset derivatives	103	119
FIA embedded derivative | Contractholder funds
Derivative [Line Items]
Total liability derivatives	$ 2,627	$ 2,383

Derivative Financial Instrume63

Derivative Financial Instruments - Schedule of Change in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	$ (16)	$ (49)	$ 92
Net investment (losses) gains
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	335	33	(8)
Call options | Net investment (losses) gains
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	338	74	(100)
Futures contracts | Net investment (losses) gains
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	10	8	(7)
Other derivatives and embedded derivatives | Net investment (losses) gains
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	3	0	7
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Net investment (losses) gains
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	(16)	(49)	92
FIA embedded derivative
Derivative [Line Items]
Change in fair value of reinsurance related embedded derivative	$ 244	$ 234	$ 241

Derivative Financial Instrume64

Derivative Financial Instruments - FGL's Exposure to Credit Loss on Call Options Held (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Fair Value	$ 531	$ 408
Merrill Lynch
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a)	A/*/A+
Deutsche Bank
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a)	A-/A3/A-
Morgan Stanley
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a)	*/A1/A+
Barclay's Bank
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a)	A*+/A1/A-
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Credit Rating (Fitch/Moody's/S&P) (a)	AA-/Aa3/A+
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	$ 10,314	9,886
Fair Value	413	276
Collateral	381	128
Net Credit Risk	32	148
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options | Merrill Lynch
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	3,164	2,302
Fair Value	144	55
Collateral	105	10
Net Credit Risk	39	45
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options | Deutsche Bank
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	972	1,620
Fair Value	32	46
Collateral	32	12
Net Credit Risk	0	34
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options | Morgan Stanley
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	1,556	2,952
Fair Value	82	87
Collateral	87	58
Net Credit Risk	(5)	29
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options | Barclay's Bank
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	2,163	1,389
Fair Value	73	39
Collateral	74	0
Net Credit Risk	(1)	39
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options | Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	2,459	1,623
Fair Value	82	49
Collateral	83	48
Net Credit Risk	$ (1)	$ 1

Derivative Financial Instrume65

Derivative Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)contract	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)contract	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 16, 2014USD ($)
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	$ 1,449	$ 1,450	$ 1,323	$ 1,292
Other derivatives and embedded derivatives
Derivative [Line Items]
Term of contract, term one	1 year
Term of contract, term two	2 years
Term of contract, term three	3 years
Term of contract, term four	5 years
Futures contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of instruments held | contract	1,534	559
Collateral held	$ 7	$ 3
Derivatives For Trading And Investment | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative notional amount	10,314	9,886
Collateral posted	381	128
Maximum amount of loss due to credit risk	32	148
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Call options
Derivative [Line Items]
Collateral posted	276	$ 118
Other invested assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	26
Other derivatives and embedded derivatives
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of assets	$ 15
Other Investments Asset | Other invested assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Fixed maturities securities, available-for-sale, at fair value					$ 35
Other Investments Asset | Other invested assets | Other derivatives and embedded derivatives
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative notional amount					$ 11

Fair Value of Financial Instr66

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Assets and Liabilities Carrying at Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 21,927	$ 20,094
Derivative investments	413	276
Total financial assets at fair value	1,449	1,450
Commercial mortgage loans	552	614
Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	885	864
Equity securities, available-for-sale	10	22
Derivative investments	0	0
Other invested assets	0	0
Total financial assets at fair value	970	947
Total financial liabilities at fair value	0	0
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans, included in other invested assets	0	0
Related party loans	0	0
Total assets carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	0	0
Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds	0	0
Debt	0	0
Total liabilities carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	0	0
Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Equity securities, available-for-sale	718	617
Derivative investments	413	276
Other invested assets	0	0
Total financial assets at fair value	20,882	18,949
Total financial liabilities at fair value	15	11
Commercial mortgage loans	0	0
Policy loans, included in other invested assets	0	0
Related party loans	0	0
Total assets carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	0	0
Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds	0	0
Debt	309	300
Total liabilities carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	309	300
Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Equity securities, available-for-sale	2	3
Derivative investments	0	0
Other invested assets	16	34
Total financial assets at fair value	1,449	1,450
Total financial liabilities at fair value	2,627	2,383
Commercial mortgage loans	552	614
Policy loans, included in other invested assets	14	13
Related party loans	71	71
Total assets carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	637	698
Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds	16,076	14,884
Debt	105	100
Total liabilities carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	16,181	14,984
Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	885	864
Equity securities, available-for-sale	730	642
Derivative investments	413	276
Other invested assets	16	34
Total financial assets at fair value	23,301	21,346
Total financial liabilities at fair value	2,642	2,394
Commercial mortgage loans	552	614
Policy loans, included in other invested assets	14	13
Related party loans	71	71
Total assets carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	637	698
Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds	16,076	14,884
Debt	414	400
Total liabilities carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	16,490	15,284
Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	885	864
Equity securities, available-for-sale	730	642
Derivative investments	413	276
Other invested assets	16	34
Total financial assets at fair value	23,301	21,346
Total financial liabilities at fair value	2,642	2,394
Commercial mortgage loans	547	595
Policy loans, included in other invested assets	17	14
Related party loans	71	71
Total assets carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	635	680
Investment contracts, included in contractholder funds	18,165	16,868
Debt	405	400
Total liabilities carried on balance sheet at amounts other than fair value	18,570	17,268
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative investments	0	0
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative investments	103	119
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative investments	0	0
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative investments	103	119
Reinsurance related embedded derivative | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative investments	103	119
Fixed indexed annuities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds	0	0
Fixed indexed annuities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds	0	0
Fixed indexed annuities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds	2,627	2,383
Fixed indexed annuities | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds	2,627	2,383
Fixed indexed annuities | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds	2,627	2,383
Call options | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	0	0
Call options | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	15	11
Call options | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	0	0
Call options | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	15	11
Call options | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Call options payable for FSRCI, included in funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities	15	11
Asset-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	2,885	2,499
Asset-backed securities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Asset-backed securities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	2,711	2,327
Asset-backed securities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	174	172
Asset-backed securities | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	2,885	2,499
Asset-backed securities | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	2,885	2,499
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	978	864
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	883	785
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	95	79
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	978	864
Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	978	864
Corporates
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	12,730	11,340
Corporates | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Corporates | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	11,616	10,219
Corporates | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,114	1,121
Corporates | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	12,730	11,340
Corporates | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	12,730	11,340
Hybrids
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,465	1,386
Hybrids | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Hybrids | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,455	1,386
Hybrids | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	10	0
Hybrids | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,465	1,386
Hybrids | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,465	1,386
States, municipalities and political subdivisions | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
States, municipalities and political subdivisions | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,688	1,676
States, municipalities and political subdivisions | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	38	41
States, municipalities and political subdivisions | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,726	1,717
States, municipalities and political subdivisions | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,726	1,717
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,263	1,362
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,263	1,362
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,263	1,362
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	1,263	1,362
U.S. Government
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	107	243
U.S. Government | Level 1
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	75	61
U.S. Government | Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	32	182
U.S. Government | Level 3
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	0	0
U.S. Government | Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	107	243
U.S. Government | Carrying Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities	$ 107	$ 243

Fair Value of Financial Instr67

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Schedule of Unobservable Inputs Used for Level Three Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments on Recurring Basis (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	$ 1,449	$ 1,450
Liabilities, fair value	2,627	2,383
Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	173	144
Market Approach | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	92	75
Market Approach | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	827	920
Market Approach | Municipals
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	38	41
Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value		2
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	1	$ 9
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing		98.75%
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	3	$ 4
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	287	201
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	$ 16	$ 13
Fair value inputs, black scholes model	100.00%	100.00%
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Hybrids
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	$ 10
Fixed indexed annuities | Income Approach Valuation Technique
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Liabilities, fair value	$ 2,627	$ 2,383
Minimum | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	92.00%	97.54%
Minimum | Market Approach | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	99.50%	104.31%
Minimum | Market Approach | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	61.00%	50.00%
Minimum | Market Approach | Municipals
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	112.17%	119.04%
Minimum | Market Approach | Hybrids
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	100.42%
Minimum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	99.88%
Minimum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices		98.41%
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	99.63%
Minimum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	94.17%	99.00%
Minimum | Fixed indexed annuities | Income Approach Valuation Technique
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, market value of option	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value inputs, swap rates	2.00%	1.18%
Fair value inputs, mortality multiplier	80.00%	80.00%
Fair value inputs, surrender rates	0.50%	0.50%
Fair value inputs, non performance spread	0.25%	0.25%
Fair value inputs, future option budget	1.13%	1.15%
Maximum | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	102.50%	101.55%
Maximum | Market Approach | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	123.84%	122.19%
Maximum | Market Approach | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	112.51%	118.33%
Maximum | Market Approach | Municipals
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	112.17%	119.04%
Maximum | Market Approach | Hybrids
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	100.42%
Maximum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	99.88%
Maximum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices		98.41%
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	99.63%
Maximum | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	116.19%	150.23%
Maximum | Fixed indexed annuities | Income Approach Valuation Technique
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, market value of option	27.81%	26.64%
Fair value inputs, swap rates	2.29%	1.46%
Fair value inputs, mortality multiplier	80.00%	80.00%
Fair value inputs, surrender rates	75.00%	75.00%
Fair value inputs, non performance spread	0.25%	0.25%
Fair value inputs, future option budget	5.57%	5.57%
Weighted Average | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	100.73%	99.66%
Weighted Average | Market Approach | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	113.71%	114.10%
Weighted Average | Market Approach | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	100.22%	103.37%
Weighted Average | Market Approach | Municipals
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	112.17%	119.04%
Weighted Average | Market Approach | Hybrids
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	100.42%
Weighted Average | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices	99.88%
Weighted Average | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices		98.41%
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	99.63%
Weighted Average | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Corporates
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, matrix pricing	104.12%	107.65%
Weighted Average | Fixed indexed annuities | Income Approach Valuation Technique
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, market value of option	3.64%	2.55%
Fair value inputs, swap rates	2.14%	1.31%
Fair value inputs, mortality multiplier	80.00%	80.00%
Fair value inputs, surrender rates	10.29%	9.59%
Fair value inputs, non performance spread	0.25%	0.25%
Fair value inputs, future option budget	2.90%	2.91%
Insurance Subsidiary | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value		$ 19
Fair value inputs, quoted prices		28.37%
Fair value inputs, discount rate		15.00%
Estimated recovery value percentage		5.50%
Insurance Subsidiary | Market Approach | Equity securities, available-for-sale
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value	$ 2	$ 3
Insurance Subsidiary | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value		$ 2
Insurance Subsidiary | Income Approach Valuation Technique | Equity securities, available-for-sale
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, discount rate		15.00%
Fair value inputs, collateralized loan obligation equity percentage		28.37%
Estimated recovery value percentage		5.50%
Fair value inputs, yield		11.00%
Insurance Subsidiary | Minimum | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, other loan recoveries		0.00%
Insurance Subsidiary | Maximum | Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, other loan recoveries		100.00%
Loan Participations - Other [Member] | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair value inputs, quoted prices		100.00%
Loan Participation - JSN Jewelry, Inc. | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Assets, fair value		$ 17
Estimated recovery value percentage		52.50%
Loan Participation - JSN Jewelry, Inc. | Minimum | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		49.93%
Loan Participation - JSN Jewelry, Inc. | Maximum | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		56.67%
Loan Participation - JSN Jewelry, Inc. | Weighted Average | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		52.50%
Loan Participation - RadioShack (RSH) Corporation [Member] | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		5.00%
Loan Participation - RadioShack (RSH) Corporation [Member] | Minimum | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		1.36%
Loan Participation - RadioShack (RSH) Corporation [Member] | Maximum | Market Approach | Other invested assets
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Estimated recovery value percentage		14.28%

Fair Value of Financial Instr68

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Changes to Fair Value of Financial Instruments Level 3 (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 1,450	$ 1,323	$ 1,292
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	(4)	(30)	(103)
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	(25)	50	7
Assets, Purchases	369	349	426
Assets, Sales	(20)	(9)	(16)
Assets, Settlements	(171)	(172)	(230)
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	(150)	(61)	(53)
Balance at End of Period	1,449	1,450	1,323
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	2,383	2,149	1,908
Liabilities, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	244	234	241
Liabilities, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	0	0	0
Liabilities, Purchases	0	0	0
Liabilities, Sales	0	0	0
Liabilities, Settlements	0	0	0
Liabilities, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	2,627	2,383	2,149
FIA embedded derivatives, included in contractholder funds
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	2,383	2,149	1,908
Liabilities, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	244	234	241
Liabilities, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	0	0	0
Liabilities, Purchases	0	0	0
Liabilities, Sales	0	0	0
Liabilities, Settlements	0	0	0
Liabilities, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	2,627	2,383	2,149
Asset-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	172	38	74
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	(2)	(12)	(37)
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	3	3	3
Assets, Purchases	152	141	73
Assets, Sales	0	0	(15)
Assets, Settlements	(40)	(3)	(31)
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	(111)	5	(29)
Balance at End of Period	174	172	38
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	79	144	83
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	0	0	0
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	1	4	(2)
Assets, Purchases	18	0	63
Assets, Sales	0	0	0
Assets, Settlements	(1)	(3)	0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	(2)	(66)	0
Balance at End of Period	95	79	144
Corporates
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	1,121	964	834
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	(1)	0	4
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	(29)	32	10
Assets, Purchases	189	154	202
Assets, Sales	(20)	(3)	(1)
Assets, Settlements	(109)	(26)	(61)
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	(37)	0	(24)
Balance at End of Period	1,114	1,121	964
Hybrids
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	0
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	0
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	0
Assets, Purchases	10
Assets, Sales	0
Assets, Settlements	0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0
Balance at End of Period	10	0
Municipals
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	41	39	37
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	0	0	0
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	(2)	2	2
Assets, Purchases	0	0	0
Assets, Sales	0	0	0
Assets, Settlements	(1)	0	0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	38	41	39
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	3	9	40
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	(2)	0	(30)
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	1	0	(1)
Assets, Purchases	0	0	0
Assets, Sales	0	(6)	0
Assets, Settlements	0	0	0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	2	3	9
Available-for-sale embedded derivative
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	13	10
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	3	3
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	0	0
Assets, Purchases	0	0
Assets, Sales	0	0
Assets, Settlements	0	0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0
Balance at End of Period	16	13	10
Other invested assets
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period		10	11
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings			(1)
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI			0
Assets, Purchases			0
Assets, Sales			0
Assets, Settlements			0
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3			0
Balance at End of Period			10
Loan participations
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	21	119	213
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings	(2)	(21)	(39)
Assets, Total Gains (Losses) Included in AOCI	1	9	(5)
Assets, Purchases	0	54	88
Assets, Sales	0	0	0
Assets, Settlements	(20)	(140)	(138)
Assets, Net transfer In (Out) of Level 3	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	$ 0	$ 21	$ 119

Fair Value of Financial Instr69

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - NAV (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Private Equity Funds [Member]
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Carrying value after measurement	$ 152	$ 12
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Carrying value after measurement	$ 43	$ 41

Fair Value of Financial Instr70

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Narrative (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)$ / Contract	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Transfers between Level 1 and Level 2	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Assets, net transfer in (out) of Level 3	(150,000,000)	(61,000,000)	(53,000,000)
Asset-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Net transfers into Level 3	128,000,000	97,000,000
Net transfers out of Level 3	(278,000,000)	(159,000,000)	(53,000,000)
Assets, net transfer in (out) of Level 3	$ (111,000,000)	$ 5,000,000	(29,000,000)
Other invested assets
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, net transfer in (out) of Level 3			$ 0
Market Approach | Asset-backed securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Short-term maturity of loans (less than)	1 year
Income Approach Valuation Technique | Other invested assets
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative, strike price | $ / Contract	0

Intangible Assets - Summary of

Intangible Assets - Summary of Changes in Carrying Amounts of Intangible Assets Including DAC, VOBA , and DSI (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
VOBA
VOBA at beginning of period	$ 19	$ 187	$ 59
Deferrals	0	0	0
Unlocking	32	25	19
Interest	11	11	12
Amortization	(65)	(41)	(68)
Adjustment for unrealized investment gains (losses)	3	(163)	165
VOBA at end of period	0	19	187
DAC
DAC at beginning of period	1,007	801	456
Deferrals	336	350	317
Unlocking	(2)	2	4
Interest	46	34	22
Amortization	(215)	(85)	(53)
Adjustment for unrealized investment gains (losses)	(43)	(95)	55
DAC at end of period	1,129	1,007	801
Total
Total VOBA and DAC at beginning of period	1,026	988	515
Deferrals	336	350	317
Unlocking	30	27	23
Interest	57	45	34
Amortization	(280)	(126)	(121)
Adjustment for unrealized investment gains (losses)	(40)	(258)	220
Total VOBA and DAC at end of period	1,129	1,026	988
Accumulated amortization	$ 418	$ 396	$ 391

Intangible Assets - Narrative (

Intangible Assets - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
VOBA
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cumulative adjustments for net unrealized investment gains	$ (159)	$ (162)
DAC
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cumulative adjustments for net unrealized investment gains	(139)	(96)
Deferred sales inducements, net of shadow adjustments	$ 106	$ 86
Minimum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Interest accrual rate utilized to calculation the accretion of interest	4.00%
Maximum
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Interest accrual rate utilized to calculation the accretion of interest	5.00%
Weighted Average | VOBA
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average amortization period	5 years 4 months

Intangible Assets - Estimated A

Intangible Assets - Estimated Amortization Expense for VOBA in Future Fiscal Periods (Detail) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,018	$ 21
2,019	21
2,020	19
2,021	16
2,022	14
Thereafter	$ 68

Debt - Narrative (Detail)

Debt - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016	Aug. 26, 2014	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 300,000,000				$ 300,000,000
Revolving credit facility	100,000,000				105,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit expiration period		3 years
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 150,000,000
Amount drawn	100,000,000		$ 5,000,000
Revolving credit facility	$ 100,000,000				$ 105,000,000
Interest rate if revolver drawn	5.50%				4.24%
Remaining borrowing capacity	$ 50,000,000				$ 45,000,000
Other assets | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issuance costs				$ 4,000,000
Senior Notes | 6.375% Senior Notes, Due April 1, 2021
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt				$ 300,000,000
Long-term debt, interest rate				6.375%
Senior Notes | 6.375% Senior Notes, Due April 1, 2021 | Other assets
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issuance costs				$ 10,000,000

Debt - Schedule of Debt (Detail

Debt - Schedule of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 300	$ 300
Revolving credit facility	105	100
Interest expense excluding amortization	19	19	$ 19
Amortization of debt issuance costs	0	2	4
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility	105	100
Interest expense excluding amortization	4	0	0
Amortization of debt issuance costs	$ 1	$ 1	$ 1

Equity - Narrative (Details)

Equity - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Nov. 09, 2017	Jul. 27, 2017	May 01, 2017	Feb. 02, 2017	Nov. 10, 2016	Aug. 01, 2016	Apr. 28, 2016	Feb. 02, 2016	Nov. 12, 2015	Jul. 31, 2015	May 01, 2015	Feb. 10, 2015	Nov. 18, 2014	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 02, 2014
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)																			50,000,000	50,000,000		50,000,000
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding (in shares)																			0	0		0
Shares repurchased (in shares)																		512,000				569,000
Value of stock repurchased																			$ 1	$ 1	$ 11
Shareholders' disclosure, common stock (in shares)																			47,000,000			47,000,000
Shareholders' disclosure, ownership percentage																			80.00%			80.00%
Cash dividend per common share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065	$ 0.065
September 2014 Repurchase Plan
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Authorized repurchase amount (in shares)																							500,000
Shares repurchased (in shares)																		500,000
Stock Compensation Plan
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares repurchased (in shares)														4,000	28,000	3,000	22,000	12,000
Value of stock repurchased																		$ 0
Treasury Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Value of stock repurchased																		11	$ 1	$ 1	$ 11	$ 13
Treasury Stock | September 2014 Repurchase Plan
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Value of stock repurchased																		$ 11
Treasury Stock | Stock Compensation Plan
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Value of stock repurchased														$ 0	$ 1	$ 0	$ 1
Subsequent Event
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash dividend per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.065
Subsidiaries
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Restricted net assets for consolidated subsidiaries																			$ 2,108			$ 2,108
Restricted net assets for consolidated subsidiaries, percentage of stockholder's equity																			94.00%			94.00%

Equity - Schedule of Dividends

Equity - Schedule of Dividends (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Aug. 28, 2017	Jul. 27, 2017	Jun. 05, 2017	May 01, 2017	Mar. 06, 2017	Feb. 02, 2017	Dec. 12, 2016	Nov. 10, 2016	Sep. 06, 2016	Aug. 01, 2016	May 30, 2016	Apr. 28, 2016	Mar. 07, 2016	Feb. 02, 2016	Dec. 14, 2015	Nov. 12, 2015	Aug. 31, 2015	Jul. 31, 2015	Jun. 01, 2015	May 01, 2015	Mar. 09, 2015	Feb. 10, 2015	Dec. 15, 2014	Nov. 18, 2014	Sep. 30, 2017	Aug. 14, 2017	May 22, 2017	Feb. 21, 2017	Nov. 28, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Aug. 22, 2016	May 16, 2016	Feb. 22, 2016	Nov. 30, 2015	Aug. 17, 2015	May 18, 2015	Feb. 23, 2015	Dec. 01, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)																									58,933,415	58,316,000	58,315,000	58,308,000	58,245,000	58,956,127	58,211,000	58,211,000	58,210,000	58,144,000	57,976,000	57,932,000	57,975,000	58,279,000
Cash dividend per common share (in dollars per share)		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065		$ 0.065
Total cash paid	$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4		$ 4

Stock Compensation - Schedule o

Stock Compensation - Schedule of Stock Based Compensation Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	$ 7	$ 13	$ 19
Related tax benefit	2	5	7
Net stock compensation expense	5	8	12
FGL Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	4	12	10
FGL Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	0	0	1
FGL Plan | Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	2	2	6
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	2	10	3
FGLH Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	3	1	9
2011 Stock Incentive Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	1	0	1
2011 Stock Incentive Plan, Amended and Restated | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	2	1	5
2011 Stock Incentive Plan, Amended and Restated | Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	0	0	2
2012 Dividend Equivalent Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 1

Stock Compensation - Summary of

Stock Compensation - Summary of Unrecognized Stock Compensation Expense (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$ 16
Weighted Average Recognition Period in Years	1 year
FGL Plan | Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$ 0
Weighted Average Recognition Period in Years	1 year
FGL Plan | Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$ 1
Weighted Average Recognition Period in Years	1 year
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Expense	$ 15
Weighted Average Recognition Period in Years	2 years

Stock Compensation - Summary 80

Stock Compensation - Summary of Stock Options Outstanding and Related Activity (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
FGLH Plan
Options (in shares):
Stock options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) | shares	82,000
Granted (in shares) | shares	0
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(12,000)
Forfeited or expired (in shares) | shares	0
Stock options outstanding at end (in shares) | shares	70,000
Vested and exercisable at end of period (in shares) | shares	70,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share):
Stock options outstanding at beginning of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 44.82
Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	0
Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	45.76
Forfeited or expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	0
Stock options outstanding at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	44.66
Vested and exercisable at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 44.66
FGL Plan
Options (in shares):
Stock options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) | shares	346,000
Granted (in shares) | shares	47,000
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(15,000)
Forfeited or expired (in shares) | shares	(14,000)
Stock options outstanding at end (in shares) | shares	364,000
Vested and exercisable at end of period (in shares) | shares	203,000
Vested or projected to vest (in shares) | shares	364,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share):
Stock options outstanding at beginning of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 22.40
Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	23.35
Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	18.61
Forfeited or expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	20.91
Stock options outstanding at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	22.74
Vested and exercisable at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	21.21
Vested and projected to vest (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 22.74

Stock Compensation - Assumption

Stock Compensation - Assumptions Used in Determination of Grant Date Fair Values Using Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
FGL
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share price (in dollars per share)	$ 166.81	$ 123.76
FHLG
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share price (in dollars per share)	31.05	23.19
FGL Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (USD per share)	$ 2.57	$ 1.01	$ 4.96
Risk-free interest rate	1.11%	0.42%
Assumed dividend yield	1.12%	1.14%
Expected option term	2 years	6 months	4 years 6 months
Volatility	20.00%	14.55%	25.00%
FGL Plan | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate			1.41%
Assumed dividend yield			1.18%
FGL Plan | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate			1.50%
Assumed dividend yield			1.19%
FGL Plan | CEO
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (USD per share)	$ 2.53
Risk-free interest rate	0.20%
Assumed dividend yield	1.18%
Expected option term	9 months
Volatility	25.00%
FGLH Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (USD per share)	$ 121.82	$ 78.62
Assumed dividend yield	1.07%	1.12%
Volatility	5.00%	15.00%
FGLH Plan | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.04%	0.26%
Expected option term	3 months	3 months

Stock Compensation - Summary 82

Stock Compensation - Summary of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Outstanding and Related Activity (Details) - FGL Plan shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017$ / sharesshares
Restricted shares
Shares:
Restricted shares outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) | shares	154
Granted (in shares) | shares	29
Vested (in shares) | shares	(90)
Forfeited or expired (in shares) | shares	(5)
Restricted shares outstanding at end of period (in shares) | shares	88
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share):
Average grant date fair value outstanding at beginning of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 22.91
Average grant date fair value, Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	23.35
Average grant date fair value, Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	21.85
Average grant date fair value, Forfeited or Expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	22.73
Average grant date fair value outstanding at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 24.14
Performance restricted stock units
Shares:
Restricted shares outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) | shares	0
Granted (in shares) | shares	576
Vested (in shares) | shares	(11)
Forfeited or expired (in shares) | shares	0
Restricted shares outstanding at end of period (in shares) | shares	565
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share):
Average grant date fair value outstanding at beginning of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 0
Average grant date fair value, Granted (USD per share) | $ / shares	23.72
Average grant date fair value, Exercised (USD per share) | $ / shares	17.82
Average grant date fair value, Forfeited or Expired (USD per share) | $ / shares	0
Average grant date fair value outstanding at end of period (USD per share) | $ / shares	$ 27.65

Stock Compensation - Narrative

Stock Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 18, 2015	Nov. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized for grant (in shares)						2,838,000
Number of shares available for issuance (in shares)						525,000
Related tax benefit						$ 2,000,000	$ 5,000,000	$ 7,000,000
FHLG
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share price (in dollars per share)			$ 23.19			$ 31.05	$ 23.19
Performance restricted stock units | 2014 and 2015 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vested (in shares)			634,000
Share price (in dollars per share)		$ 23.30
Share-based liabilities paid		$ 15,000,000
Performance restricted stock units | 2014 and 2015 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member] | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage								0.00%
Performance restricted stock units | 2014 and 2015 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member] | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage								200.00%
Performance restricted stock units | Officer | 2017 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Fair value at grant date						$ 2,000,000
Vested (in shares)						78,000
Minimum retirement age						60 years
Award service period						5 years
Performance restricted stock units | Officer | 2017 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member] | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage						70.00%
Performance restricted stock units | Officer | 2017 Performance Restricted Stock Units [Member] | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage						200.00%
FGL Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options granted (in shares)						47,000
FGL Plan | CEO
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Accelerated compensation cost				$ 2,000,000
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Accelerated compensation cost			$ 3,000,000
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)						576,000
Vested (in shares)						11,000
Share-based liability						$ 18,000,000
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units | CEO
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Forfeiture of awards								66.70%
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units | Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Fair value at grant date						$ 0	$ 1,000,000	$ 0	$ 1,000,000
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)						487,000	0	32,000
Vested (in shares)						11,000	63,000	14,000	44,000
Option fair value at grant date						$ 13,000,000	$ 0	$ 1,000,000
FGL Plan | Performance restricted stock units | Officer | Annual Performance Result [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage						33.33%		50.00%	33.333%
FGL Plan | Stock Option Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options outstanding, intrinsic value						$ 3,000,000
Options exercisable, intrinsic value						2,000,000
Aggregate intrinsic value of options						$ 3,000,000
Weighted average contractual term, outstanding						4 years
Weighted average contractual term, exercisable						4 years
Weighted average contractual term, vested and expected to vest						4 years
Options exercised, intrinsic value						$ 0	0	$ 1,000,000
Cash received from options						0	2,000,000	2,000,000
Related tax benefit						$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
FGL Plan | Stock Option Awards | Directors, Officers, and Other Key Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options granted (in shares)						47,000	119,000	206,000
Award vesting period						3 years
Fair value at grant date						$ 0	$ 0	$ 1,000,000
FGL Plan | Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)						29,000
Vested (in shares)						90,000
Option fair value at grant date					$ 1,000,000	$ 1,000,000		$ 7,000,000
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | 1st anniversary
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage								20.00%
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | 2nd anniversary
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage								50.00%
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | 3rd anniversary
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage								30.00%
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | Directors, Officers, and Other Key Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period						3 years		1 year
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)						29,000	26,000	173,000
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)								12,000
FGL Plan | Restricted shares | Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)	140,000
Compensation expense								$ 3,000,000
FGL Plan | Unrestricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option fair value at grant date								$ 0
FGL Plan | Unrestricted shares | Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit grants (in shares)								9,000
FGLH Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options granted (in shares)						0
Award vesting period						3 years
Fair value inputs, discount rate						5.00%
FGLH Plan | Stock Option Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options outstanding, intrinsic value						$ 9,000,000
Options exercisable, intrinsic value						9,000,000
Aggregate intrinsic value of options						$ 9,000,000
Weighted average contractual term, exercisable						2 years
Weighted average contractual term, vested and expected to vest						2 years
Options exercised, intrinsic value						$ 1,000,000	$ 0	$ 9,000,000
Options outstanding, weighted average remaining term						2 years
FGLH Plan | Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cash paid for units in lieu of shares						$ 0	2,000,000	2,000,000
FGLH Plan | Dividend Equivalent Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cash paid for units in lieu of shares						$ 0	$ 1,000,000	$ 1,000,000

Income Taxes - Schedule of Inco

Income Taxes - Schedule of Income Before Income Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
United States	$ 333	$ 153	$ 182
Outside the United States	0	0	0
Income before income taxes	$ 333	$ 153	$ 182

Income Taxes - Components of In

Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Current:
Federal	$ (114)	$ (5)	$ (14)
State	0	0	0
Total current	(114)	(5)	(14)
Deferred:
Federal	4	(51)	(50)
State	0	0	0
Total deferred	4	(51)	(50)
Income tax (expense)/benefit	$ (110)	$ (56)	$ (64)

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Effective Income Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Expected income tax (expense)/benefit at Federal statutory rate	$ (117)	$ (54)	$ (64)
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets	1	69	(1)
Amortization of low income housing tax credits	(4)	(2)	(1)
Benefit on LIHTC under proportional amortization method	5	3	1
Write off of expired capital loss carryforward	0	(73)	0
Dividends received deduction	4	1	2
Other	1	0	(1)
Income tax (expense)/benefit	$ (110)	$ (56)	$ (64)
Effective tax rate	33.00%	37.00%	35.00%

Income Taxes - Schedule of Defe

Income Taxes - Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss, credit and capital loss carryforwards	$ 91	$ 93
Insurance reserves and claim related adjustments	601	511
Investments	0	0
Other	75	44
Valuation allowance	(49)	(51)
Total deferred tax assets	718	597
Deferred tax liabilities:
Value of business acquired	0	(7)
Investments	(456)	(312)
Deferred acquisition costs	(316)	(277)
Other	(8)	(11)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(780)	(607)
Net deferred tax assets and (liabilities)	$ (62)	$ (10)

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 27, 2013
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Federal tax rates	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Effective tax rate	33.00%	37.00%	35.00%
Write off of expired capital loss carryforward	$ 0	$ (73,000,000)	$ 0
Valuation allowance increase (decrease)		69,000,000	1,000,000
OCI, deferred tax expense	56,000,000
Valuation allowance	49,000,000	51,000,000
Allowable net operating losses, capital losses, and tax credits acquired during business combination	5,000,000
NOL carryforwards	95,000,000	92,000,000
Tax liability	0	2,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	0	0
Capital Loss Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	15,000,000	6,000,000		$ 350,000,000
Investment Tax Credit Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards				54,000,000
Low Income Housing Tax Credit Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	47,000,000	52,000,000
Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforwards	6,000,000	6,000,000		$ 6,000,000
Life Company Capital Loss Carryforwards
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Valuation allowance increase (decrease)		74,000,000	(4,000,000)
Valuation allowance	0	0
Non-Life Company Capital Loss Carryforwards
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Valuation allowance increase (decrease)	1,000,000	5,000,000	$ 5,000,000
Valuation allowance	$ 49,000,000	$ 51,000,000

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Schedule of Investment Commitments (Details) - Commitment to Invest $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment	$ 197
Other invested assets
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment	116
Commercial mortgage loans
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment	33
Equity securities, available-for-sale
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment	27
Other assets
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Unfunded investment commitment	$ 21

Commitments and Contingencies90

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 10, 2015	Jan. 07, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Rent expense			$ 3	$ 2	$ 2
Accrued amount of guaranty fund assessments			2
Estimated future premium tax deductions			2
Eddie L. Cressy v. Fidelity Guaranty [sic] Life Insurance Company, et. al.
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Settlement costs	$ 1
Amount received to settle outstanding claim						$ 4
Dale R. Ludwick, on behalf of Herself and All Others Similarly Situated v. Harbinger Group Inc., Fidelity & Guaranty Life Insurance Company, Raven Reinsurance Company, and Front Street Re (Cayman) Ltd
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Unpaid portion of estimate (less than)			$ 2
Damages sought (at least)		$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies91

Commitments and Contingencies - Schedule of Minimum Rental Commitments (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,018	$ 2
2,019	2
2,020	2
2,021	1
2,022	0
Thereafter	0
Total	$ 7

Reinsurance - Effect of Reinsur

Reinsurance - Effect of Reinsurance on Premiums Earned, Benefits Incurred and Reserve Changes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Premiums and other considerations:
Direct	$ 462	$ 452	$ 416
Assumed	0	1	0
Ceded	(255)	(259)	(271)
Net	207	194	145
Benefits and Other Changes in Insurance Policy Reserves:
Net	843	791	578
Traditional life insurance premiums
Premiums and other considerations:
Direct	233	261	260
Assumed	0	1	0
Ceded	(191)	(192)	(202)
Net	42	70	58
Benefits and Other Changes in Insurance Policy Reserves:
Direct	1,097	1,069	833
Assumed	0	1	0
Ceded	(254)	(279)	(255)
Net	$ 843	$ 791	$ 578

Reinsurance - Narrative (Detail

Reinsurance - Narrative (Details)	Jan. 02, 2017	Oct. 01, 2012USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)policy	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012USD ($)
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded			$ 255,000,000	$ 259,000,000	$ 271,000,000
Number of policies reinsured by foreign company not engaged in insurance | policy			0
Pretax gain on reinsurance transactions deferred			$ 8,000,000	10,000,000						$ 18,000,000
Statutory capital and surplus								$ 207,000,000	$ 210,000,000
Nomura | Letter of Credit
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 295,000,000				$ 115,000,000
Upfront structuring fee		3,000,000
Quarterly reduction in borrowing capacity		$ 6,000,000
Raven Re
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus							$ 24,000,000
Life and Annuity Insurance Product Line
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Reinsurance, write off			0	$ 0	$ 0
Ceded			$ 0
Reinsured risk	70.00%

Related Party Transactions - Su

Related Party Transactions - Summary of Affiliated Entity Operations (Details) - Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd. - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Revenues:
Premiums	$ 1	$ 3	$ 1
Net investment income	46	61	63
Net investment gains (losses)	15	(8)	(30)
Insurance and investment product fees	2	3	4
Total revenues	64	59	38
Benefits and expenses:
Benefits and other changes in policy reserves	(39)	(47)	(42)
Acquisition & operating expenses, net of deferrals	(3)	(4)	(4)
Total benefits and expenses	(42)	(51)	(46)
Operating income (loss)	$ 22	$ 8	$ (8)

Related Party Transactions - Re

Related Party Transactions - Related Party Investments (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)borrower	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) on other invested assets	$ (2)	$ (26)	$ (40)
Realized impairment losses	22	$ 45	82
Salus participations
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of borrowers in loan participation | borrower		4
Average loan fair value		$ 5
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Salus CLOs
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value		19
Accrued Investment Income		0
Total carrying value		19
Net investment income	1	9	11
Realized gains (losses) on other invested assets	(2)	(12)	(37)
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Fortress Investment Group CLOs
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value	175	225
Accrued Investment Income	2	2
Total carrying value	177	227
Net investment income	10	11	8
Realized gains (losses) on other invested assets	0	(19)	(40)
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Spectrum Brands, Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value	2
Accrued Investment Income	0
Total carrying value	2
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Salus preferred equity (c)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Realized gains (losses) on other invested assets	(3)	0	(30)
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Salus preferred equity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value	2	3
Accrued Investment Income	0	0
Total carrying value	2	3
Other invested assets | Salus preferred equity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Realized impairment losses	0	0	0
Other invested assets | Salus participations
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value		21
Accrued Investment Income		0
Total carrying value		21
Net investment income	0	4	15
Realized impairment losses	1	22	36
Other invested assets | EIC participations
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Net investment income	0	1	0
Available-for-sale Securities | Salus CLOs
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Realized impairment losses	2	11	46
Related party investment | HGI energy loan
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Asset carrying value	71	71
Accrued Investment Income	0	0
Total carrying value	71	71
Net investment income	0	4	5
Related party investment | Salus promissory note
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Net investment income	0	0	1
Salus | Affiliated Entity | Management Fees
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Expenses from transactions with related party	0	0	1
CorAmerica Capital, LLC | Affiliated Entity | Management Fees
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Expenses from transactions with related party	1	3	1
EIC [Member] | Affiliated Entity | Management Fees
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Expenses from transactions with related party	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Related Party Transactions - Na

Related Party Transactions - Narrative (Details)	Jun. 13, 2016USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)loan	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Aug. 22, 2017	May 01, 2017	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016loan	Oct. 31, 2015	Feb. 27, 2015USD ($)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable					$ 3,375,000,000	$ 3,464,000,000
Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities					1,083,000,000	1,172,000,000
Litigation settlement amount	$ 2,000,000		$ 2,000,000	$ 18,000,000
Realized losses on other invested assets					(2,000,000)	(26,000,000)	$ (40,000,000)
Realized impairment losses					(22,000,000)	(45,000,000)	(82,000,000)
Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd.
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverable					1,016,000,000	1,120,000,000
Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities					1,081,000,000	1,172,000,000
HRG
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Fees reimbursed by entity, percentage of shares sold by affiliated entity triggering prorated reimbursement												50.00%
Salus preferred equity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Preferred stock dividend rate		10.00%
Total par value		$ 30,000,000
Salus preferred equity | Other invested assets
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Realized impairment losses					$ 0	0	0
Salus Loan Participation, Collateralized Loan Obligation Subordinated Debt | Affiliated Entity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
CLO debt													$ 16,000,000
Loan participation value													14,000,000
Related party promissory note													20,000,000
Related party debt, current													10,000,000
FGL Loan Participation, Collateralized Loan Obligation Subordinated Debt and Salus Promissory Note | Affiliated Entity
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of CLO's | loan					2						4
CLO debt													27,000,000
Loan participation value													29,000,000
Related party promissory note													$ 3,000,000
Asset Sale and Recapitalization | Front Street RE (Cayman) Ltd.
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Interest rate								1.50%	0.71%
Other derivatives and embedded derivatives | Other invested assets | Net investment (losses) gains
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loss on derivative					$ (2,000,000)	(5,000,000)	(4,000,000)
Currency Forward | Other invested assets | Net investment (losses) gains
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loss on derivative					$ 0	(2,000,000)
Gain on derivative							$ 9,000,000
RadioShack (RSH) Corporation
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Proceeds from liquidation						23,000,000
Realized losses on other invested assets						$ 8,000,000
Fair Value | Asset Sale and Recapitalization | Affiliated Entity | HGI Energy Holdings, LLC
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes payable, par value										$ 71,000,000

Earnings Per Share - Summary of

Earnings Per Share - Summary of Basic and Diluted EPS (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income attributable to common shares - basic	$ 61	$ 32	$ 22	$ 108	$ 30	$ 10	$ 9	$ 48	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic (in shares)									58,319,517	58,275,013	58,117,884
Dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock and unvested performance restricted stock (in shares)									43,000	271,000	208,000
Dilutive effect of stock options (in shares)									52,000	32,000	35,000
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)									58,415,187	58,578,163	58,360,841
Net income per common share:
Basic (in USD per share)	$ 1.06	$ 0.54	$ 0.38	$ 1.85	$ 0.52	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.82	$ 3.83	$ 1.67	$ 2.03
Diluted (in USD per share)	$ 1.06	$ 0.54	$ 0.38	$ 1.85	$ 0.52	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.82	$ 3.83	$ 1.66	$ 2.02
Stock Option Awards
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of EPS, less than, amount (shares)									0	19,000	17,000

Insurance Subsidiary Financia98

Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters - Statutory Income and Net Capital (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus		$ 207	$ 210
IOWA
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory net income	$ 21	(53)	105
Statutory capital and surplus		1,323	1,239
NEW YORK
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory net income	$ 4	(1)	2
Statutory capital and surplus		$ 64	$ 59

Insurance Subsidiary Financia99

Insurance Subsidiary Financial Information and Regulatory Matters - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Apr. 01, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Apr. 06, 2011
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Statutory account practices, amount available for dividend payments		$ 132,000,000	$ 132,000,000	$ 107,000,000
Dividends			$ 15,000,000	$ 15,000,000	$ 15,000,000
Change in statutory capital surplus							$ 195,000,000	$ 220,000,000
Non-permitted statutory accounting practices								8,000,000	$ (14,000,000)
Statutory capital and surplus								207,000,000	210,000,000
Increase (decrease) in statutory capital surplus								0	47,000,000
Unassigned surplus balance										$ 806,000,000
Unassigned surplus										$ 0
IOWA
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Change in statutory capital surplus								4,000,000	4,000,000
Statutory capital and surplus								$ 1,323,000,000	$ 1,239,000,000
FGLH
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Dividends		$ 25,000,000
Raven Re
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Debt term	5 years
Letters of credit outstanding	$ 115,000,000					$ 183,000,000
Statutory capital and surplus							$ 24,000,000

Other Liabilities - Schedule of

Other Liabilities - Schedule of Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Amounts payable for investment purchases	$ 173	$ 106
Retained asset account	194	221
Option collateral liabilities	276	118
Remittances and items not allocated	39	77
Amounts payable to reinsurers	36	36
Accrued expenses	55	60
Deferred reinsurance revenue	23	25
Other	101	103
Total	$ 897	$ 746

Employee Benefit Plans - Narrat

Employee Benefit Plans - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Percent of employer matching	5.00%
Employer discretionary contribution	$ 2	$ 2	$ 2

Quarterly Results (Unaudited) -

Quarterly Results (Unaudited) - Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Premiums	$ 16	$ 12	$ 3	$ 11	$ 18	$ 21	$ 16	$ 15	$ 42	$ 70	$ 58
Net investment income	261	257	247	240	238	236	227	222	1,005	923	851
Net investment gains (losses)	117	67	81	51	26	(28)	(42)	63	316	19	(37)
Insurance and investment product fees and other	41	44	44	38	34	32	32	29	167	127	89
Total revenues	435	380	375	340	316	261	233	329	1,530	1,139	961
Total operating expenses	342	326	334	171	262	240	212	250	1,173	964	755
Net income	$ 61	$ 32	$ 22	$ 108	$ 30	$ 10	$ 9	$ 48	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Net income (loss) per common share - basic (in USD per share)	$ 1.06	$ 0.54	$ 0.38	$ 1.85	$ 0.52	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.82	$ 3.83	$ 1.67	$ 2.03
Net income (loss) per common share - diluted (in USD per share)	$ 1.06	$ 0.54	$ 0.38	$ 1.85	$ 0.52	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.82	$ 3.83	$ 1.66	$ 2.02

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - Senior Notes - 6.375% Senior Notes, Due April 1, 2021 - USD ($) $ in Millions	Nov. 14, 2017	Mar. 31, 2013
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Long-term debt, interest rate		6.375%
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Long-term debt, interest rate	6.375%
Payment to holders of senior notes upon merger	$ 3

Schedule I - Summary of Inve104

Schedule I - Summary of Investments (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 21,753
Fair Value	23,074
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	23,072
United States Government and government agencies and authorities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	232
Fair Value	235
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	235
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	1,573
Fair Value	1,726
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	1,726
Foreign governments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	4
Fair Value	4
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	4
Public utilities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,109
Fair Value	2,202
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	2,202
All other corporate bonds
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	16,145
Fair Value	16,987
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	16,987
Redeemable preferred stock
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	0
Fair Value	0
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	0
Total fixed maturities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	20,063
Fair Value	21,154
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	21,154
Public utilities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	0
Fair Value	0
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	0
Banks, trust, and insurance companies
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	110
Fair Value	111
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	111
Industrial, miscellaneous and all other
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	1
Fair Value	2
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	2
Nonredeemable preferred stock
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	622
Fair Value	660
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	660
Total equity securities
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	733
Fair Value	773
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	773
Derivative investments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	225
Fair Value	413
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	413
Commercial mortgage loans
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	547
Fair Value	552
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	547
Other long-term investments
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	185
Fair Value	182
Amount at which shown on the balance sheet	$ 185

Schedule II - Condensed Fina105

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 885	$ 864	$ 502	$ 576
Other assets	202	371
Total assets	28,965	27,035
Total liabilities	26,718	25,101
Preferred stock	0	0
Common stock	1	1
Additional paid-in capital	716	714
Retained earnings	1,000	792
Accumulated other comprehensive income	543	439
Treasury stock	(13)	(12)
Total shareholders' equity	2,247	1,934
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	28,965	27,035
Parent Company
Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries	2,241	1,913
Fixed maturity securities, available for sale	0	5
Equity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value	0	12
Cash and cash equivalents	2	2	$ 13	$ 66
Other assets	4	2
Total assets	2,247	1,934
Total liabilities	0	0
Preferred stock	0	0
Common stock	1	1
Additional paid-in capital	716	714
Retained earnings	1,000	792
Accumulated other comprehensive income	543	439
Treasury stock	(13)	(12)
Total shareholders' equity	2,247	1,934
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 2,247	$ 1,934

Schedule II - Condensed Fina106

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Statement of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 435	$ 380	$ 375	$ 340	$ 316	$ 261	$ 233	$ 329	$ 1,530	$ 1,139	$ 961
General and administrative expenses									137	119	113
Total operating expenses	342	326	334	171	262	240	212	250	1,173	964	755
Operating income									357	175	206
Income before income taxes									333	153	182
Income tax expense									110	56	64
Net income	$ 61	$ 32	$ 22	$ 108	$ 30	$ 10	$ 9	$ 48	223	97	118
Parent Company
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Revenues									(1)	(2)	(9)
Gross Profit									(1)	(2)	(9)
General and administrative expenses									2	3	6
Total operating expenses									2	3	6
Operating income									(3)	(5)	(15)
Equity in net income of subsidiaries									227	103	133
Income before income taxes									224	98	118
Income tax expense									1	1	0
Net income									$ 223	$ 97	$ 118

Schedule II - Condensed Fina107

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Statement of Cash Flow (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 61	$ 32	$ 22	$ 108	$ 30	$ 10	$ 9	$ 48	$ 223	$ 97	$ 118
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Realized capital and other gains on investments									(305)	(19)	37
Stock based compensation									6	8	7
Other assets and other liabilities									(47)	16	(36)
Net cash provided by operating activities									237	365	35
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net cash (used in) investing activities									(1,217)	(1,186)	(1,024)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Dividends paid									(15)	(15)	(15)
Treasury stock									(1)	(1)	(11)
Net cash provided by financing activities									1,001	1,183	915
Change in cash & cash equivalents									21	362	(74)
Cash & cash equivalents, beginning of period				864				502	864	502	576
Cash & cash equivalents, end of period	885				864				885	864	502
Parent Company
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income									223	97	118
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Realized capital and other gains on investments									5	2	9
Equity in net income of subsidiaries									(227)	(103)	(133)
Stock based compensation									2	(2)	10
Other assets and other liabilities									3	2	2
Net cash provided by operating activities									6	(4)	6
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net cash (used in) investing activities									12	5	15
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of transactions fees									0	2	2
Dividends paid									(15)	(15)	(15)
Treasury stock									(1)	(1)	(11)
Distribution to FGLH and subsidiaries									(2)	2	(50)
Net cash provided by financing activities									(18)	(12)	(74)
Change in cash & cash equivalents									0	(11)	(53)
Cash & cash equivalents, beginning of period				$ 2				$ 13	2	13	66
Cash & cash equivalents, end of period	$ 2				$ 2				2	2	13
Equity securities, available-for-sale | Parent Company
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from available-for-sale investments, sold, matured or repaid:									12	5	30
Cost of available-for-sale investments:									$ 0	$ 0	$ (15)

Schedule III - Supplementary108

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 1,129	$ 1,007	$ 801
Future policy benefits, losses, claims and loss expenses	3,412	3,467	3,468
Other policy claims and benefits payable	67	55	55
Premium revenue	42	70	58
Net investment income	1,005	923	851
Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	(843)	(791)	(578)
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	(171)	(49)	(27)
Other operating expenses	$ (137)	$ (119)	$ (113)

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Deta

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Life insurance in force
Gross Amount	$ 3,207	$ 3,081	$ 2,933
Ceded to other companies	(2,036)	(2,024)	(2,010)
Assumed from other companies	0	0	0
Net Amount	$ 1,171	$ 1,057	$ 923
Percentage of amount assumed of net	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Premiums and other considerations:
Direct	$ 462	$ 452	$ 416
Ceded to other companies	(255)	(259)	(271)
Assumed from other companies	0	1	0
Net	$ 207	$ 194	$ 145
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.00%	1.00%	0.00%
Traditional life insurance premiums
Premiums and other considerations:
Direct	$ 233	$ 261	$ 260
Ceded to other companies	(191)	(192)	(202)
Assumed from other companies	0	1	0
Net	$ 42	$ 70	$ 58
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.00%	1.00%	0.00%
Annuity product charges
Premiums and other considerations:
Direct	$ 229	$ 191	$ 156
Ceded to other companies	(64)	(67)	(69)
Assumed from other companies	0	0	0
Net	$ 165	$ 124	$ 87
Premiums, Percentage Assumed to Net	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%