| Cover | Nov. 10, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 10, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-32244 |
| Entity Registrant Name | INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000701869 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 58-1407235 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 96 Cummings Point Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Stamford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CT |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 06902 |
| City Area Code | 203 |
| Local Phone Number | 358-8000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1.00 par value |
| Trading Symbol | IHC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
