Great West Life & Annuity Insurance 10-K 2 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 01, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	GREAT WEST LIFE & ANNUITY INSURANCE CO
Entity Central Index Key	744455
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		7,032
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$0

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $18,953,144 and $17,807,359)	$20,162,078,000	$18,469,544,000
Fixed maturities, held for trading, at fair value (amortized cost of $331,081 and $333,892)	338,543,000	336,055,000
Mortgage loans on real estate (net of valuation allowances of $2,890 and $2,890)	3,363,570,000	3,134,255,000
Policy loans	4,130,062,000	4,185,472,000
Short-term investments (amortized cost of $263,501 and $294,287)	263,501,000	294,287,000
Limited partnership and other corporation interests	49,421,000	79,236,000
Other investments	16,068,000	17,574,000
Total investments	28,323,243,000	26,516,423,000
Other assets:
Cash	12,775,000	7,491,000
Reinsurance receivable	611,270,000	588,533,000
Deferred acquisition costs (“DAC”) and value of business acquired (“VOBA”)	378,694,000	343,288,000
Investment income due and accrued	278,886,000	270,024,000
Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741,000	18,534,000
Due from parent and affiliates	47,193,000	91,057,000
Goodwill	137,683,000	105,255,000
Other intangible assets	27,915,000	15,155,000
Other assets	773,651,000	707,856,000
Assets of discontinued operations	24,324,000	29,007,000
Separate account assets	27,718,844,000	26,630,904,000
Total assets	58,348,219,000	55,323,527,000
Policy benefit liabilities:
Future policy benefits	25,968,411,000	24,609,155,000
Policy and contract claims	339,104,000	345,261,000
Policyholders’ funds	335,484,000	345,689,000
Provision for policyholders’ dividends	58,577,000	62,797,000
Undistributed earnings on participating business	20,050,000	10,776,000
Total policy benefit liabilities	26,721,626,000	25,373,678,000
General liabilities:
Due to parent and affiliates	547,266,000	541,793,000
Commercial paper	98,589,000	98,990,000
Payable under securities lending agreements	13,741,000	18,534,000
Deferred income tax liabilities, net	314,616,000	106,849,000
Other liabilities	771,700,000	648,040,000
Liabilities of discontinued operations	24,324,000	29,007,000
Separate account liabilities	27,718,844,000	26,630,904,000
Total	56,210,706,000	53,447,795,000
Commitments and contingencies (See Note 21)
Stockholder’s equity:
Preferred stock, $1 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $1 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 7,032,000 shares issued and outstanding	7,032,000	7,032,000
Additional paid-in capital	777,664,000	774,115,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	603,018,000	345,754,000
Retained earnings	749,799,000	748,831,000
Total stockholder’s equity	2,137,513,000	1,875,732,000
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity	$58,348,219,000	$55,323,527,000

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$18,953,144	$17,807,359
Fixed maturities, held for trading, amortized cost (in dollars)	331,081	333,892
Mortgage loans on real estate, allowances (in dollars)	2,890	2,890
Short-term investments, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$263,501	$294,287
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	7,032,000	7,032,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	7,032,000	7,032,000

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues
Premium income	$446,395	$464,093	$422,153
Fee income	729,179	618,244	535,823
Other revenue	7,506	7,355	0
Net investment income	1,228,388	1,091,389	1,191,551
Realized investment gains (losses), net:
Total other-than-temporary losses	-4,334	-372	-5,138
Other-than-temporary (gains) losses transferred to other comprehensive income	0	-434	-61
Other realized investment gains (losses), net	151,705	-13,330	121,916
Total realized investment gains (losses), net	147,371	-14,136	116,717
Total revenues	2,558,839	2,166,945	2,266,244
Benefits and expenses:
Life and other policy benefits	643,420	650,584	682,088
(Decrease) increase in future policy benefits	-56,073	5,575	-66,697
Interest paid or credited to contractholders	575,400	505,698	519,499
Provision for policyholdersb share of (losses) earnings on participating business	-1,041	3,976	-580
Dividends to policyholders	60,739	66,258	64,000
Total benefits	1,222,445	1,232,091	1,198,310
General insurance expenses	780,991	650,347	596,649
Amortization of DAC and VOBA	44,845	59,645	60,479
Interest expense	37,286	37,329	37,387
Total benefits and expenses	2,085,567	1,979,412	1,892,825
Income (loss) before income taxes	473,272	187,533	373,419
Income tax expense	155,903	58,791	135,305
Net income (loss)	$317,369	$128,742	$238,114

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$317,369		$128,742		$238,114
Components of other comprehensive income (loss)
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on available-for-sale fixed maturity investments	586,458		-718,735		534,028
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	20,137		3,102		-18,881
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	-56,159		-42,982		-107,713
Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	550,436		-758,615		407,434
Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	-58,760		190,995		-83,835
Employee benefit plan adjustment	-95,886		121,551		-68,650
Other, net	-154,646		312,546		-152,485
Other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes	395,790		-446,069		254,949
Income tax expense (benefit) related to items of other comprehensive income	138,526		-156,124		89,232
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	257,264	[1]	-289,945	[1]	165,717	[1]
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$574,633		($161,203)		$403,831
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the non-credit component of impaired losses on fixed maturities available-for-sale, net of future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments and income taxes, in the amounts of $177, $18,388 and $26,583 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Non-credit component of impaired losses on fixed maturities available-for-sale, net of future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments and income taxes	$177	$18,388	$26,583

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholder's Equity (USD $)	Total		Common stock	Additional paid-in capital	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	Retained earnings
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balances at Dec. 31, 2011	$1,914,073		$7,032	$768,247	$469,982	$668,812
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholder's Equity
Net income	238,114					238,114
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes	165,717	[1]			165,717
Dividends	-184,401					-184,401
Capital contribution - stock-based compensation	2,314			2,314
Income tax benefit on stock-based compensation	480			480
Balances at Dec. 31, 2012	2,136,297		7,032	771,041	635,699	722,525
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholder's Equity
Net income	128,742					128,742
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes	-289,945	[1]			-289,945
Dividends	-102,436					-102,436
Capital contribution - stock-based compensation	2,578			2,578
Income tax benefit on stock-based compensation	496			496
Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	1,875,732		7,032	774,115	345,754	748,831
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholder's Equity
Net income	317,369					317,369
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes	257,264	[1]			257,264
Dividends	-316,401					-316,401
Capital contribution - stock-based compensation	3,384			3,384
Income tax benefit on stock-based compensation	165			165
Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$2,137,513		$7,032	$777,664	$603,018	$749,799
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the non-credit component of impaired losses on fixed maturities available-for-sale, net of future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments and income taxes, in the amounts of $177, $18,388 and $26,583 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$317,369	$128,742	$238,114
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Losses allocated to participating policyholders	-1,041	-804	-580
Amortization of premiums (accretion of discounts) on investments, net	-42,022	-20,751	-28,495
Net realized (gains) losses on investments	-64,323	-38,517	-126,938
Net proceeds (purchases) of trading securities	11,478	23,677	-220,646
Interest credited to contractholders	571,860	507,987	515,356
Depreciation and amortization	76,461	81,061	82,595
Deferral of acquisition costs	-110,843	-80,486	-94,826
Deferred income taxes	75,044	-24,087	45,371
Amortization of low-income housing partnerships	21,713	31,918	39,621
Other, net	-4,984	2,432	-2,681
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Policy benefit liabilities	-151,096	-49,980	-192,755
Reinsurance receivable	-18,054	12,013	-15,893
Investment income due and accrued	-8,951	-12,448	-8,654
Other assets	-5,705	-106,923	-98,042
Other liabilities	-6,568	78,829	-37,444
Net cash provided by operating activities	660,338	532,663	94,103
Proceeds from sales, maturities and redemptions of investments:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	4,124,159	4,022,064	4,308,965
Mortgage loans on real estate	384,306	289,531	172,950
Limited partnership interests, other corporation interests and other investments	7,555	22,200	12,530
Purchases of investments:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	-5,174,996	-5,012,792	-5,284,686
Mortgage loans on real estate	-609,008	-562,940	-524,396
Limited partnership interests, other corporation interests and other investments	-2,983	-3,706	-5,577
Net change in short-term investments	22,096	-27,955	81,058
Policy loans, net	-11,169	-4,370	4,983
Acquisition payment	-28,356	0	0
Purchases of furniture, equipment and software	-35,537	-20,618	-23,525
Net cash used in investing activities	-1,323,933	-1,298,586	-1,257,698
Cash flows from financing activities:
Contract deposits	2,709,043	2,601,820	2,881,112
Contract withdrawals	-1,757,936	-1,780,048	-1,636,066
Change in due to/from parent and affiliates	49,337	-14,724	37,598
Dividends paid	-316,401	-102,436	-184,401
Proceeds from financing element derivatives	5,516	51,832	64,354
Payments for and interest (paid) received on financing element derivatives, net	-8,392	-9,756	4,470
Net commercial paper borrowings	-401	1,003	451
Change in book overdrafts	-12,052	13,840	-609
Income tax benefit of stock option exercises	165	496	480
Net cash provided by financing activities	668,879	762,027	1,167,389
Net increase (decrease) in cash	5,284	-3,896	3,794
Cash, beginning of year	7,491	11,387	7,593
Cash, end of year	12,775	7,491	11,387
Net cash received (paid) during the year for:
Income taxes	46,453	-10,327	53,281
Interest	-37,284	-37,329	-37,387
Non-cash investing and financing transactions during the years:
Contingent consideration (See Note 2)	-32,209	0	0
Share-based compensation expense	-3,384	-2,578	-2,314
Fair value of assets acquired in settlement of fixed maturity investments	0	0	-1,125
Assets received from limited partnership investment distribution	0	-5,119	0
Fixed maturity investments, available-for-sale acquired in reinsurance termination (See Note 4)	0	-44,104	0
Policy loans acquired in reinsurance termination (See Note 4)	0	-6,468	0
Fixed maturity investments, available-for-sale acquired in mortgage transfer (See Note 4)	$0	($28,959)	$0

Organization_and_Significant_A

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization and Significant Accounting Policies	Organization and Significant Accounting Policies
	Organization
	Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company (“GWLA”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of GWL&A Financial Inc. (“GWL&A Financial”), a holding company formed in 1998.  GWL&A Financial is a direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco U.S. Inc. (“Lifeco U.S.”) and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco Inc. (“Lifeco”), a Canadian holding company.  The Company offers a wide range of life insurance, retirement and investment products to individuals, businesses and other private and public organizations throughout the United States. The Company is an insurance company domiciled in the State of Colorado and is subject to regulation by the Colorado Division of Insurance.
	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and the accounts of its subsidiaries over which it exercises control and are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates are required to account for items and matters such as, but not limited to, the valuation of investments and derivatives in the absence of quoted market values, impairment of investments, accounting for derivative financial instruments, valuation of DAC, valuation of policy benefit liabilities, valuation of employee benefits plan obligation and the valuation of deferred tax assets or liabilities, net, and valuation of contingent consideration.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Investments
	Investments are reported as follows:
	1.     The Company classifies the majority of its fixed maturity investments as available-for-sale which are recorded at fair value with the related net unrealized gain or loss, net of policyholder related amounts and deferred taxes, recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”). Included in fixed maturities are perpetual debt investments which primarily consist of junior subordinated debt instruments that have no stated maturity date but pay fixed or floating interest in perpetuity. Also included in AOCI is net unrealized gain or loss resulting from foreign currency translations of fixed maturity investments denominated in foreign currencies.
	Premiums and discounts are recognized as a component of net investment income using the effective interest method, realized gains and losses are included in net realized investment gains (losses) and declines in value determined to be other-than-temporary are included in total other-than-temporary losses.
	The Company also classifies certain fixed maturity investments as held for trading. Assets in the held for trading category are carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported in net investment income.
	The recognition of income on certain investments (e.g. loan-backed securities, including mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities) is dependent upon market conditions, which may result in prepayments and changes in amounts to be earned. Prepayments on all mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are monitored monthly and amortization of the premium and/or the accretion of the discount associated with the purchase of such securities are adjusted by such prepayments.
	The Company recognizes the acquisition of its public fixed maturity investments on a trade date basis.
	2.    Mortgage loans on real estate consist of domestic commercial collateralized loans and are carried at their unpaid principal balances adjusted for any unamortized premiums or discounts, origination fees and mortgage provision allowances. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance for all loans, except for loans on non-accrual status. Premiums, discounts and origination fees are amortized to net investment income using the effective interest method. Prepayment penalty fees are recognized in other realized investment gains upon receipt.
	The Company actively manages its mortgage loan portfolio by completing ongoing comprehensive analysis of factors such as debt service coverage ratios, loan-to-value ratios, payment status, default or legal status, annual collateral property evaluations and general market conditions.  On a quarterly basis, the Company reviews the above primary credit quality indicators in its internal risk assessment of loan impairment and credit loss. Management’s risk assessment process is subjective and includes the categorization of all loans, based on the above mentioned credit quality indicators, into one of the following categories:
	•	Performing - generally indicates the loan has standard market risk and is within its original underwriting guidelines.
	•	Non-performing - generally indicates there is a potential for loss due to the deterioration of financial/monetary default indicators or potential foreclosure. Due to the potential for loss, these loans are evaluated for impairment.
	The adequacy of the Company’s mortgage provision allowance is reviewed quarterly. The determination of the calculation and the adequacy of the mortgage provision allowance and mortgage impairments involve judgments that incorporate qualitative and quantitative Company and industry mortgage performance data. Management’s periodic evaluation and assessment of the adequacy of the mortgage provision allowance and the need for mortgage impairments is based on known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, the fair value of the underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions, loss experience and other relevant factors. Loans included in the non-performing category and other loans with certain substandard credit quality indicators are individually reviewed to determine if a specific impairment is required. Risk is mitigated through first position collateralization, guarantees, loan covenants and borrower reporting requirements. Since the Company does not originate or hold uncollateralized mortgages, loans are generally not deemed fully uncollectable. Generally, unrecoverable amounts are written off during the final stage of the foreclosure process.
	Loan balances are considered past due when payment has not been received based on contractually agreed upon terms. The accrual of interest is discontinued when concerns exist regarding the realization of loan principal or interest. The Company resumes interest accrual on loans when a loan returns to current status or under new terms when loans are restructured or modified.
	On a quarterly basis, any loans with terms that were modified during that period are reviewed to determine if the loan modifications constitute a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”).  In evaluating whether a loan modification constitutes a TDR, it must be determined that the modification is a significant concession and the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties.
	3.	Limited partnership and other corporation interests are accounted for using either the cost or equity method of accounting. The Company uses the cost method on investments where it has a minor equity interest and no significant influence over the entity’s operations. The Company uses the equity method when it has a partnership interest that is considered more than minor, although the Company has no significant influence over the entity’s operations. Also included in limited partnership interests are limited partnerships established for the purpose of investing in low-income housing that qualify for federal and state tax credits. These interests are carried at amortized cost as determined using the effective yield method.
	In the normal course of its activities, the Company is involved with other entities that are considered variable interest entities (“VIE”). An entity would be determined to be a primary beneficiary, and thus consolidated when the entity has both (a) the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. When the Company becomes involved with a VIE and when the nature of the Company’s involvement with the entity changes, in order to determine if the Company is the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the entity, it evaluates:
	•	The structure and purpose of the entity;
	•	The risks and rewards created by and shared through the entity and;
	•	The entity’s participants’ ability to direct the activities, receive its benefits and absorb its losses.
	The Company performs ongoing qualitative analyses of its involvement with VIEs to determine if consolidation is required.
	4.    Policy loans are carried at their unpaid balances. Interest income on policy loans is recognized in net investment income at the contract interest rate when earned. Policy loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the associated insurance policy.
	5.    Short-term investments include securities purchased with investment intent and with initial maturities of one year or less and are generally carried at fair value which is approximated from amortized cost.
	6.    The Company participates in a securities lending program in which the Company lends fixed maturity securities that are held as part of its general account investment portfolio to third parties.  The Company does not enter into these types of transactions for liquidity purposes, but rather for yield enhancement on its investment portfolio.  The borrower can return and the Company can request the loaned securities at any time.  The Company maintains ownership of the securities at all times and is entitled to receive from the borrower any payments for interest received on such securities during the loan term.  Securities lending transactions are accounted for as secured borrowings.  The securities lending agent indemnifies the Company against borrower risk, meaning that the lending agent agrees contractually to replace securities not returned due to a borrower default.  The Company generally requires initial collateral in an amount greater than or equal to 102% of the fair value of domestic securities loaned and 105% of foreign securities loaned.  Such collateral is used to replace the securities loaned in event of default by the borrower. Acceptable collateral is generally defined as government securities, letters of credit and/or cash collateral.  Some cash collateral may be invested in short-term repurchase agreements which are also collateralized by U.S. Government or U.S. Government Agency securities. Non-cash collateral is not recognized as the Company does not have effective control.
	7.    The Company’s other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) accounting policy requires that a decline in the value of a security below its cost or amortized cost basis be assessed to determine if the decline is other-than-temporary. The assessment of whether an OTTI has occurred on fixed maturity investments where management does not intend to sell the fixed maturity investment and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis, is based upon management’s case-by-case evaluation of the underlying reasons for the decline in fair value of each individual security. Management considers a wide range of factors, as described below, regarding the security issuer and uses its best judgment in evaluating the cause of the decline in its estimated fair value and in assessing the prospects for near-term recovery.
	Considerations used by the Company in the impairment evaluation process include, but are not limited to, the following:
	•	The extent to which estimated fair value is below cost;
	•	Whether the decline in fair value is attributable to specific adverse conditions affecting a particular instrument, its issuer, an industry or geographic area;
	•	The length of time for which the estimated fair value has been below cost;
	•	Downgrade of a fixed maturity investment by a credit rating agency;
	•	Deterioration of the financial condition of the issuer;
	•	The payment structure of the fixed maturity investment and the likelihood of the issuer being able to make payments in the future; and
	•	Whether dividends have been reduced or eliminated or scheduled interest payments have not been made.
	If either (a) management has the intent to sell a fixed maturity investment or (b) it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell a fixed maturity investment before its anticipated recovery, a charge is recorded in net realized investment losses equal to the difference between the fair value and cost or amortized cost basis of the security.  If management does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis, but the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected (discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the fixed maturity investment prior to impairment) is less than the amortized cost basis of the fixed maturity investment (referred to as the credit loss portion), an OTTI is considered to have occurred.  In this instance, total OTTI is bifurcated into two components: the amount related to the credit loss, which is recognized in current period earnings; and the amount attributed to other factors (referred to as the non-credit portion), which is recognized as a separate component in AOCI.  The expected cash flows utilized during the impairment evaluation process are determined using judgment and the best information available to the Company including default rates, credit ratings, collateral characteristics and current levels of subordination.  After the recognition of an OTTI, a fixed maturity investment is accounted for as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the OTTI, with an amortized cost basis equal to the previous amortized cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings.  The difference between the new amortized cost basis and the future cash flows is accreted into net investment income.  The Company continues to estimate the present value of cash flows expected to be collected over the life of the security.
	Derivative financial instruments
	The Company enters into derivative transactions which include the use of interest rate swaps, interest rate swaptions, cross-currency swaps, U.S. government treasury futures contracts, Eurodollar futures contracts, futures on equity indices, interest rate swap futures and other forward contracts. The Company uses these derivative instruments to manage various risks, including interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate risk associated with its invested assets and liabilities. Derivative instruments are not used for speculative reasons. Certain of the Company’s over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivatives are cleared and settled through a central clearing counterparty while others are bilateral contracts between the Company and a counterparty.
	All derivatives, regardless of hedge accounting treatment, are recorded in other assets and other liabilities at fair value. Although some derivatives are executed under a master netting arrangement, the Company does not offset in the consolidated balance sheets the fair value of those derivative instruments and the related cash collateral or net derivative receivables and payables executed with the same counterparty under the same master netting arrangement. At inception of a derivative transaction, the hedge relationship and risk management objective is documented and the designation of the derivative is determined based on specific criteria of the transaction. Accounting for the ongoing changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the intended use of the derivative. If the derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of the changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in AOCI and are recognized in the consolidated income statements when the hedged item affects earnings. If the derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, the changes in its fair value and of the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings in net investment income. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not qualifying for hedge accounting or where hedge accounting is not elected and the over effective portion of cash flow hedges are recognized in net investment income in the period of the change. Depending on whether the derivative instrument is designated a cash flow hedge or not qualifying for hedge accounting, the changes in fair value resulting from foreign currency translations are recorded in AOCI or net investment income, respectively. Termination of derivative contracts prior to expiration generally result in investment gains and losses. Fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currencies or equity markets may cause the Company to experience volatility in net income.
	The Company uses forward settling TBA securities to gain exposure to the investment risk and return of agency mortgage-backed securities (pass-throughs). These transactions are utilized to enhance the return of the Company’s investment portfolio and are accounted for as derivative instruments not qualifying for hedge accounting. The Company purchases agency mortgage-backed TBAs yet does not always take physical delivery of a security but rather may roll the security into the next month. The Company generally takes physical delivery of a security before year end. Changes in fair value on open TBA transactions are recorded in net investment income while realized investment gains or losses are recorded once the Company cash settles or accepts physical delivery of a security.
	As part of its hedging strategy, the Company may enter into certain derivative transactions where a cash investment is made by one party. Certain derivative instruments that contain a financing element at inception and where the Company is deemed to be the borrower are included in financing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The cash flows from all other derivative transactions are included in operating activities.
	The Company uses derivative financial instruments for risk management purposes associated with certain invested assets and policy liabilities. Derivatives are used to (a) hedge the economic effects of interest rate and stock market movements on the Company’s guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit liability, (b) hedge the economic effect of a large increase in interest rates on the Company’s general account life insurance, group pension liabilities and certain separate account life insurance liabilities, (c) hedge the economic risks of other transactions such as future asset acquisitions or dispositions, the timing of liability pricing, currency risks on non-U.S. dollar denominated assets and fee revenue based on equity market performance and (d) convert floating rate assets to fixed rate assets for asset/liability management purposes.
	The Company controls the credit risk of its derivative contracts through credit approvals, limits, monitoring procedures and in many cases, requiring collateral. The Company’s exposure is limited to the portion of the fair value of derivative instruments that exceeds the value of the collateral held and not to the notional or contractual amounts of the derivatives.
	Derivatives in a net asset position may have cash or securities pledged as collateral to the Company in accordance with the collateral support agreements with the counterparty. This collateral is held in a custodial account for the benefit of the Company. Unrestricted cash collateral is included in other assets and the obligation to return it is included in other liabilities. The cash collateral is reinvested in a government money market fund. Cash collateral pledged by the Company is included in other assets.
	Fair Value
	Certain assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.  The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Company categorizes its assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis into a three-level hierarchy, based on the priority of the inputs to the respective valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The Company’s assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis have been categorized based upon the following fair value hierarchy:
	•	Level 1 inputs utilize observable, quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Financial assets and liabilities utilizing Level 1 inputs include certain money market funds.
	•	Level 2 inputs utilize other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. The fair values for some Level 2 securities are obtained from pricing services. The inputs used by the pricing services are reviewed at least quarterly or when the pricing vendor issues updates to its pricing methodology. For fixed maturity securities and separate account assets and liabilities, inputs include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, evaluated bids, offers and reference data including market research publications. Additional inputs utilized for assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 are:
	•	Asset-backed, residential mortgage-backed, commercial mortgage-backed securities and collateralized debt obligations - new issue data, monthly payment information, collateral performance and third party real estate analysis.
	•	U.S. states and their subdivisions - material event notices.
	•	Short-term investments - valued based on amortized cost due to their short term nature and high credit quality of the issuers.
	•	Derivative instruments - trading activity, swap curves, credit spreads, currency volatility, net present value of cash flows and news sources.
	•	Separate account assets and liabilities - various index data and news sources, amortized cost (which approximates fair value), trading activity, swap curves, credit spreads, recovery rates, restructuring, net present value of cash flows and quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
	•	Common collective trusts - the net asset value based on the underlying trust investments.
	•	Level 3 inputs are unobservable and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. In general, the prices of Level 3 securities are obtained from single broker quotes and internal pricing models. If the broker’s inputs are largely unobservable, the valuation is classified as a Level 3. Broker quotes are validated through an internal analyst review process, which includes validation through known market conditions and other relevant data, as noted below. Internal models are usually cash flow based utilizing characteristics of the underlying collateral of the security such as default rate and other relevant data. Inputs utilized for securities classified as Level 3 are as follows:
	•	Corporate debt securities - unadjusted single broker quotes which may be in an illiquid market or otherwise deemed unobservable.
	•	Asset-backed securities - internal models utilizing asset-backed securities index spreads.
	•	Separate account assets - single broker quotes which may be in an illiquid market or otherwise deemed unobservable or net asset value per share of the underlying investments.
	•	Defined benefit plan limited partnership investments - capital account or net asset value adjusted for other relevant information.
In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. 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 asset or liability.
Overall, transfers between levels are attributable to a change in the observability of inputs. Assets and liabilities are transferred to a lower level in the hierarchy when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This may occur when market activity decreases and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred to a higher level in the hierarchy when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity including recent trades, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable. All transfers between levels are recognized at the beginning of the reporting period in which the transfer occurred.
The policies and procedures utilized to review, account for and report on the value and level of the Company’s securities were determined and implemented by the Finance division. The Investments division is responsible for the processes related to security purchases and sales and provides valuation and leveling input to the Finance division when necessary. Both divisions within the Company have worked in conjunction to establish thorough pricing, review, approval, accounting and reporting policies and procedures around the securities valuation process.
Internal pricing models may be used to value certain Level 3 securities. Internal model input assumptions may include: prepayment speeds, constant default rates and the Asset Backed Securities Index (“ABX Index”) spread adjusted by an internally calculated liquidity premium with the primary inputs being the constant default rate and the internally adjusted ABX Index spread. These models are recalibrated monthly by adjusting the inputs based on current public security market conditions and a monthly comparison to pricing vendor evaluations is performed and analyzed.
In some instances, securities are priced using external broker quotes.  In most cases, when broker quotes are used as pricing inputs, more than one broker quote is obtained.  External broker quotes are reviewed internally by comparing the quotes to similar securities in the public market and/or to vendor pricing, if available.  Additionally, external broker quotes are compared to market reported trade activity to ascertain whether the price is reasonable, reflective of the current market prices and takes into account the characteristics of the Company’s securities.
Cash
Cash includes only amounts in demand deposit accounts.
Book overdrafts occur when checks have been issued by the Company, but have not been presented to the Company’s disbursement bank accounts for payment. These bank accounts allow the Company to delay funding of the issued checks until they are presented for payment. This delay in funding results in a temporary source of financing. The activity related to book overdrafts is included in the financing activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.  The book overdrafts, in the amounts of $1,788 and $13,840, are included in other liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Internal use software
Purchased software costs, as well as certain internal and external costs incurred to develop internal use computer software during the application development stage, are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the software’s estimated useful life, ranging from five to seven years.  Capitalized internal use software development costs, net of accumulated amortization, in the amounts of $66,012 and $50,134, are included in other assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company capitalized $31,473, $14,640 and $17,593 of internal use software development costs during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
DAC and VOBA
The Company incurs costs in connection with the acquisition of new and renewal insurance business. Costs that vary directly with and relate to the successful production of new business are deferred as DAC. These costs consist primarily of commissions, costs associated with the Company’s sales representatives and policy issuance and underwriting expenses related to the production of successfully acquired new business. A success factor is derived from actual contracts issued by the Company from requests for proposals or applications received and applied to the deferrable costs. The recoverability of such costs is dependent upon the future profitability of the related business. Recoverability testing is performed for current issue year products to determine if gross revenues are sufficient to cover DAC and expenses. At least annually, loss recognition testing is performed on aggregated blocks of business to adjust the DAC balance.
VOBA represents the estimated fair value of insurance or annuity contracts acquired either directly through the acquisition of another insurance company or through the acquisition of insurance or annuity contracts through assumption reinsurance transactions.
DAC and VOBA associated with the annuity products and flexible premium universal life insurance products are being amortized over the life of the contracts in proportion to the emergence of gross profits. Retrospective adjustments of these amounts are made when the Company revises its estimates of current or future gross profits on an annual basis. DAC and VOBA associated with traditional life insurance are amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies in proportion to premium revenues recognized. DAC and VOBA, for applicable products, are adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI.
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill is the excess of cost over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with an acquisition. It is considered an indefinite lived asset and therefore is not amortized. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that there may be justification for conducting an interim test. If the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its fair value, the excess is recognized as an impairment and recorded as a charge against net income in the period in which the impairment is identified.
Other intangible assets represent the estimated fair value of the portion of the purchase price that was allocated to the value of customer relationships and non-competition intangible asset in various acquisitions.  These intangible assets have been assigned values using various methodologies, including present value of projected future cash flows, analysis of similar transactions that have occurred or could be expected to occur in the market and replacement or reproduction cost.  The initial valuations of these intangible assets were supported by an independent valuation study commissioned by the Company.  Other identified intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, which initially ranged from two to 18 years (weighted average 15 years), primarily based on the cash flows generated by these assets.
Separate accounts
Separate account assets and related liabilities are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  The Company issues variable annuity contracts and variable universal life contracts through separate accounts for which investment income and investment gains and losses accrue directly to, and investment risk is borne by, the contract holder and therefore, are not included in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.
Revenues to the Company from the separate accounts consist of contract maintenance fees, investment management fees, administrative fees and mortality and expense risk charges.
The Company’s separate accounts invest in shares of Great-West Funds, Inc. (“Great-West Funds”) and Putnam Funds, open-end management investment companies, which are affiliates of the Company, and shares of other non-affiliated mutual funds and government and corporate bonds.
Future policy benefits liabilities
Life insurance and annuity future benefits liabilities with life contingencies in the amounts of $15,349,322 and $14,296,153 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, are computed on the basis of assumed investment yield, mortality, morbidity and expenses, including a margin for adverse deviation. These future policy benefits are calculated as the present value of future benefits (including dividends) and expenses less the present value of future net premiums. The assumptions used in calculating the future policy benefits generally vary by plan, year of issue and policy duration. Additionally, these future policy benefits are established for claims that have been incurred but not reported based on factors derived from past experience.
Annuity contract benefits liabilities without life contingencies in the amounts of $10,569,147 and $10,263,043 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, are established at the contract holder’s account value, which is equal to cumulative deposits and credited interest, less withdrawals and mortality and expense and/or administrative service charges. The Company’s general account also has some immediate annuities. Future benefits for immediate annuities without life contingent payouts are computed on the basis of assumed investment yield and expenses.
Minimum guarantees
The Company calculates additional reserve liabilities for certain variable annuity guaranteed death benefits. The additional reserve for such products recognizes the portion of contract assessments received to compensate the Company for death benefits. Reserves for annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits (“GMDB”) are determined by estimating the present value of expected benefits in excess of the projected account balance. Expected experience is based on a range of inputs and scenarios. The assumptions of investment performance and volatility are consistent with the historical experience of the appropriate underlying equity index, such as the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Index.
Reinsurance ceded
In the normal course of its business, the Company seeks to limit its exposure to loss on any single insured and to recover a portion of benefits paid by ceding risks to other insurance enterprises under excess coverage, quota share, yearly renewable term, coinsurance and modified coinsurance contracts. For each of its reinsurance agreements, the Company determines if the agreement provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. If the Company determines that a reinsurance agreement does not provide indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk, the Company records the agreement using the deposit method of accounting. The Company reviews all contractual features, particularly those that may limit the amount of insurance risk to which the reinsurer is subject or features that delay the timely reimbursement of claims.
Policy benefits and policy and contract claims ceded to other insurance companies are carried as a reinsurance receivable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Premiums, fee income and policyholder benefits are reported net of reinsurance ceded in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The cost of reinsurance related to long duration contracts is accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured policies using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying policies.
The Company strives to cede risks to highly rated, well-capitalized reinsurers. The Company monitors and evaluates the financial condition of reinsurers to minimize exposure to credit risk.
Policy and contract claims
Policy and contract claims include provisions for claims incurred but not reported and claims in the process of settlement. The provision for claims incurred but not reported is valued based primarily on the Company’s prior experience. Claims in the process of settlement are valued in accordance with the terms of the related policies and contracts.
Participating business
The Company has participating policies in which the policyholder shares in the Company’s earnings through policyholder dividends that reflect the difference between the assumptions used in the premium charged and the actual experience on those policies. The amount of dividends to be paid is determined by the Board of Directors.
Participating life and annuity policy benefit liabilities were $6,804,898 and $6,754,435 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Participating business composed approximately 9% of the Company’s individual life insurance in-force at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and 21%, 32% and 20% of individual life insurance premium income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The policyholder’s share of net income on participating policies that cannot be distributed to the Company’s stockholder is excluded from stockholder’s equity and recorded as undistributed earnings on participating business in the consolidated balance sheet.
Revenue recognition
Life insurance premiums are recognized when due in premiums. Annuity contract premiums with life contingencies are recognized as received. Revenues for annuity and other contracts without significant life contingencies consist of contract charges for the cost of insurance and contract administration and surrender fees that have been assessed against the contract account balance during the period and are recognized when earned in fee income. Fees from assets under management, assets under administration, shareholder servicing, mortality and expense risk charges, administration and record-keeping services and investment advisory services are recognized when due in fee income.
Net investment income
Interest income from fixed maturities, mortgage loans on real estate and policy loans is recognized when earned.
Realized investment gains (losses)
Realized investment gains and losses are reported as a component of revenues and are determined on a specific identification basis. Realized investment gains and losses also result from the termination of derivative contracts prior to expiration that are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes and certain fair-value hedge relationships.
Benefits and expenses
Benefits and expenses on policies with life contingencies are associated with earned premiums so as to result in recognition of profits over the life of the contracts.
Income taxes
Income taxes are recorded using the asset and liability method in which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in either the Company’s consolidated financial statements or consolidated tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, all expected future events, other than enactments or changes in the tax laws or rules, are considered. A valuation allowance is provided to the extent that it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized. The effect on deferred taxes from a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
Share-based compensation
Lifeco maintains the Great-West Lifeco Inc. Stock Option Plan (the “Lifeco plan”) that is accounted for as an equity award that provides for the granting of options on its common shares to certain of its officers and employees and those of its subsidiaries, including the Company. The Lifeco plan provides for granting of options with varying terms and vesting requirements with vesting commencing on the first anniversary of the grant, exercisable within 10 years from the date of grant. The Company uses the fair value method to recognize the cost of share-based employee compensation under the Lifeco plan.
The Company maintains a Performance Share Unit Plan (“PSU plan”) that is accounted for as a liability award for senior executives of the Company. Under the PSU plan, performance share units are granted to certain senior executives of the Company, having a value equal to the participants’ deferred incentive compensation for the period. The performance share units generally vest in their entirety at the end of the three years performance period based on continued service. The Company uses the fair value method to recognize the cost of share-based employee compensation under the PSU plan.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	Acquisition
	Description of transaction
	On August 29, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of all of the voting equity interests in the J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (“RPS”) large-market record-keeping business. This acquisition transformed the Company, together with Putnam Investments, LLC (“Putnam”), an affiliate of the Company, into the second largest provider based on the number of participants in the U.S. defined contribution market.
	Allocation of purchase price
	During the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company substantially completed its comprehensive evaluation of the fair value of the net assets acquired from RPS and the purchase price allocation. As a result, initial goodwill of $50,249 recognized upon the acquisition of RPS on August 29, 2014 in the Acquisition note to the September 30, 2014 condensed, consolidated interim unaudited financial statements has been adjusted in the fourth quarter of 2014, as a result of valuations received during the measurement period. Adjustments were made to the provisional amounts disclosed in the September 30, 2014 condensed, consolidated interim unaudited financial statements for the recognition and measurement of intangible assets, contingent consideration, accounts receivable, other assets, and accrued expenses and other liabilities.
	The Company updated the previously reported allocation of purchase price as of September 30, 2014 for the measurement period adjustments that are reflected in the table below:
		As of		Measurement Period Adjustment			As of
		September 30,					December 31,
		2014					2014
		(Unaudited)
	Assets acquired and goodwill:
	Goodwill (1)	$	50,249	$	(17,821	)	$	32,428
	Other intangible assets (2)	—		16,291			16,291
	Other assets
	Fixed assets (3)	12,680		—			12,680
	Accounts receivable (4)	24,050		105			24,155
	Other (4)	1,224		(122		)	1,102
	Total other assets	37,954		(17		)	37,937
	Total assets acquired and goodwill	88,203		(1,547		)	86,656
	Liabilities assumed and contingent consideration:
	Other liabilities
	Accrued expenses and other (4)	26,108		772			26,880
	Contingent consideration (5)	33,739		(1,530		)	32,209
	Total other liabilities	59,847		(758		)	59,089
	Total liabilities assumed and contingent consideration	$	59,847	$	(758	)	$	59,089
	(1) Goodwill
	Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the net assets recognized and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired and liabilities assumed that could not be individually identified (Level 3). Total goodwill resulting from the acquisition, in the amount of $32,428, is allocated to the Retirement Services segment. No portion of goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
	(2) Other Intangible Assets
	Other intangible assets include customer relationships and non-competition intangible assets. The fair value of the customer relationships intangible asset was determined using the excess earnings method under the income approach (Level 3). This valuation method is based on first forecasting revenue for the existing customer base and then applying expected attrition rates. The operating cash flows are calculated by determining the cost required to generate revenue from the existing customer base. Key assumptions include projections of revenues generated from existing customers which includes an estimated rate of attrition, projections of operating expenses, and a discount rate of 14%.
	The fair value of the non-competition intangible asset was determined using the with and without method under the income approach (Level 3). The premise associated with this valuation approach is that the value of an asset is represented by the differences in the subject business’ cash flows under scenarios where a) the asset is present and is used in operations; and b) the asset is absent and not used in operations. Such differences may arise due to additional revenue and/or cost savings associated with having the asset in place. Cash flow differentials are then discounted to present value to arrive at an estimate of fair value for the asset. Key assumptions include projected cash flows with the non-competition agreement in place, projected cash flows without the non-competition agreement in place, the expected time period under which the cash flow differences would occur, the probability of competition and success and a discount rate of 14%.
	(3) Fixed Assets
	The fair value of property, plant and equipment and software was determined using a cost approach and a market approach (Level 2). The cost approach is based on current replacement cost and/or reproduction costs of the assets as new less depreciation attributable to physical, functional and economic factors. The market approach is based on market data for similar assets.
	(4) Accounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities
	Accounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities are current assets and liabilities that are generally carried at fair value which is approximated from the carrying value (Level 2).
	(5) Contingent consideration
	In addition to the cash paid during 2014, the Company is obligated to make an additional earnout payment based on the retention of aggregated revenue, as defined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement, 24 months after the close date. As such, the remaining earnout payment is due on August 29, 2016. The potential undiscounted amount of the earnout payment that the Company could be required to make under the contingent consideration arrangement is between zero and $50,000. The fair value of the contingent consideration of $32,209 was estimated by a discounted cash flow model (Level 3) which calculates the present value of a probability-weighted earnout using a discount rate of 3%.
	Contingencies
	At the date of the acquisition, RPS was the named defendant in four pending lawsuits. Per the terms of the acquisition, the Company is indemnified from any and all losses incurred in conjunction with the pending lawsuits. Due to the Company’s limited involvement with the pending legal proceedings, it is unable to make an estimate of the possible loss and related indemnity associated with these claims.
	Revenues and earnings of the acquiree
	From date of acquisition to December 31, 2014, RPS contributed $54,267 in revenue and $3,416 in net loss. These amounts are included in the consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Costs related to acquisition
	The Company incurred $2,859 of acquisition costs for the year ended December 31, 2014. Such costs have been expensed as incurred and are included in general insurance expenses.
	Pro-forma information
	Supplementary pro-forma revenues and net earnings for the combined entity, as though the acquisition date for this business combination had been as of January 1, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, have not been included as it is impracticable since historical records are not available.

Application_of_Recent_Accounti

Application of Recent Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Application of Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Application of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
	Future adoption of new accounting pronouncements
	In January 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-01 Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323): Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects (“ASU No. 2014-01”). ASU No. 2014-01 permits reporting entities to make an accounting election to account for their investments in qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. A reporting entity that uses the effective yield method to account for its investments in qualified affordable housing projects before the date of adoption may continue to apply the effective yield method for those pre-existing investments. ASU 2014-01 is effective for public business entities for annual periods and interim reporting periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2014. The Company currently uses the effective yield method for its investments in qualified affordable housing projects. As such, the Company does not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU No. 2014-09”). The update outlines a comprehensive model for accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. While the update does not apply to insurance contracts within the scope of Topic 944, it does apply to other fee income earned by the Company which includes fees from assets under management, assets under administration, shareholder servicing, administration and record-keeping services and investment advisory services. The core principle of the model requires that an entity should recognize revenue for the transfer of goods or services equal to the amount that it expects to be entitled to receive for those goods or services. The update also requires increased disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. In adopting ASU No. 2014-09, the Company may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach. The update is effective for public business entities for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its financial statements.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-11 Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860): Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU No. 2014-11”). ASU No. 2014-11 amends the accounting for entities that enter into repurchase-to-maturity transactions and repurchase agreements executed as repurchase financings. ASU No. 2014-11 requires new footnote disclosures for repurchase agreements and securities lending transactions accounted for as secured borrowings. The accounting changes in ASU 2014-11 are effective for public business entities for the first interim or annual period beginning after December 15, 2014. The disclosure for repurchase agreements, securities lending transactions, and repurchase-to-maturity transactions accounted for as secured borrowings is required to be presented for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and for interim periods beginning after March 15, 2015. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its financial statements.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40). The update will require management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the Company will be required to disclose that fact, along with managements’ evaluation of the effectiveness of its plan to alleviate that doubt. The update defines substantial doubt as when it is probable that the Company will be unable to meet its obligations as they become due within one year of the date the financial statements are issued. The assessment and disclosure requirements, if applicable, will be required quarterly. The update is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for interim and annual periods thereafter. The Company does not expect this update to have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.
	In November 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-17, Pushdown Accounting (Topic 805). The update gives an acquired entity the option of applying pushdown accounting in its stand-alone financial statements when a change in control occurs. The update is effective immediately and will apply to business combinations executed by the Company after November 18, 2014.
	In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis (Topic 810). The update primarily amends the criteria used to evaluate whether certain variable interest entities should be consolidated. The update also modifies the criteria used to determine whether partnerships and similar entities are variable interest entities. The update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted, including in the interim periods. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its financial statements.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions
	In the normal course of its business, the Company enters into reinsurance agreements with related parties. Included in the consolidated balance sheets are the following amounts related to reinsurance ceded to and assumed from related parties:
		December 31,
		2014				2013
	Reinsurance receivable	$	529,921			$	502,471
	Future policy benefits	1,812,077				1,887,182
	Included in the consolidated statements of income are the following related party amounts:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Premium income, net of related party premiums ceded of $13,901, $(30,114) and $18,112	$	71,453			$	137,785			$	85,873
	Life and other policy benefits, net of reinsurance recoveries of $4,594, $(536) and $12,562	209,102				216,809				215,880
	Decrease in future policy benefits	(46,915		)		(2,556		)		(39,439		)
	In the normal course of business the Company enters into agreements with related parties whereby it provides and/or receives record-keeping services, investment advisory services, and tax-related services, as well as corporate support services which include general and administrative services, information technology services, and marketing services. The following table presents revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided and/or received pursuant to these service agreements. These amounts, in accordance with the terms of the contracts, are based upon market price, estimated costs incurred or resources expended as determined by number of policies, number of participants, certificates in-force, administered assets or other similar drivers.
				Year Ended December 31,											Financial statement line
	Description	Related party		2014				2013				2012
	Provides corporate support service	The Canada Life Assurance Company (“CLAC”) (1), Great-West Life Assurance Company (“Great-West Life”) (1), MAM Holding Inc. (1) and Putnam (2)		$	(2,055	)		$	(1,971	)		$	(1,698	)	General insurance expense
	Receives corporate support services	CLAC (1), Great-West Life (1) and Putnam (2)		4,053				2,556				2,610			General insurance expense
	Provides investment advisory and administrative services to U.S. branches of Lifeco insurance subsidiaries	CLAC (1) and Great-West Life (1)		1,803				2,586				2,929			Net investment income
	Provides investment advisory and administrative services to Canadian subsidiaries of of Lifeco	CLAC (1), Great-West Life (1) and London Life Financial Corporation (“London Life”) (1)		3,912				4,487				4,841			Fee income
	Provides record-keeping services	CLAC (1) and Putnam (2)		13,956				10,625				7,677			Fee income
	Provides U.S. tax services	London Life (1), LRG (US) Inc. (1), Putnam (2), Thomas H. Lee Partners L.P. (1) and CLAC (1)		(402		)		(361		)		(352		)	General insurance expense
	Receives reimbursement from tax sharing indemnification related to state and local tax liabilities	Putnam (2)		7,506				—				—			Other revenue
				—				8,114				6,206			Fee income
	Received internally developed internal use software	Putnam (2)		1,008				—				—			Other assets
	(1) An indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Lifeco
	(2) A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lifeco U.S.
	The following table summarizes amounts due from parent and affiliates:
						December 31,
	Related party	Indebtedness		Due date		2014				2013
	GWL&A Financial	On account		On demand		$	32,572			$	23,396
	Lifeco U.S.	On account		On demand		13,369				64,786
	Other related party receivables	On account		On demand		1,252				2,875
	Total					$	47,193			$	91,057
	The following table summarizes amounts due to parent and affiliates:
						December 31,
	Related party	Indebtedness		Due date		2014				2013
	GWL&A Financial (1)	Surplus note		November 2034		$	194,446			$	194,418
	GWL&A Financial (2)	Surplus note		May 2046		333,400				333,400
	GWL&A Financial	Note interest		May 2014		4,701				4,701
	Putnam	On account		On demand		7,257				—
	CLAC	On account		On demand		3,986				6,038
	Great-West Life	On account		On demand		1,739				1,514
	London Life	On account		On demand		1,737				1,722
	Total					$	547,266			$	541,793
	(1) A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on November 15, 2004, with a face amount of $195,000 and carrying amounts of $194,446 and $194,418 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The surplus note bears interest at the rate of 6.675% per annum, payable in arrears each May and November.  The note matures on November 14, 2034.
	(2) A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on May 19, 2006, with a face amount and carrying amount of $333,400.  The surplus note bears interest initially at the rate of 7.203% per annum, payable in arrears each May and November until May 16, 2016.  After May 16, 2016, the surplus note bears an interest rate of 2.588% plus the then-current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate (“LIBOR”).  The surplus note is redeemable by the Company at the principal amount plus any accrued and unpaid interest after May 16, 2016.  The note matures on May 16, 2046.
	Payments of principal and interest under the surplus notes shall be made only out of surplus funds of the Company and only with prior written approval of the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Colorado when the Commissioner of Insurance is satisfied that the financial condition of the Company warrants such action pursuant to applicable Colorado law.  Payments of principal and interest on the surplus notes are payable only if at the time of such payment and after giving effect to the making thereof, the Company’s surplus would not fall below 2.5 times the authorized control level as required by the most recent risk-based capital calculations.
	Interest expense attributable to these related party debt obligations was $37,059 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. Included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 is $4,701 of interest payable attributable to these related party debt obligations.
	The Company’s wholly owned subsidiary Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company of South Carolina (“GWSC”) and CLAC are parties to a reinsurance agreement pursuant to which GWSC assumes term life insurance from CLAC.  GWL&A Financial obtained two letters of credit for the benefit of the Company as collateral under the GWSC and CLAC reinsurance agreement for policy liabilities and capital support.  The first letter of credit is for $1,168,800 and renews annually until it expires on July 3, 2027.  The second letter of credit is for $70,000 and renews annually until it expires on December 31, 2017. At December 31, 2014 and 2013 there were no outstanding amounts related to the letters of credit.
	Included within reinsurance receivable in the consolidated balance sheets are $522,180 and $495,140 of funds withheld assets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  CLAC pays the Company, on a quarterly basis, interest on the funds withheld balance at a rate of 4.55% per annum. The interest income, in the amount of $21,295, $20,876 and $19,382, is included in net investment income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	A subsidiary of the Company, Great-West Capital Management, LLC, serves as a Registered Investment Advisor to Great-West Funds, Inc., an affiliated open-end management investment company, to several affiliated insurance company separate accounts and to Great-West Trust Company, LLC, an affiliated trust company. Great-West Trust Company, LLC, serves as trustee to several collective investment trusts.  Included in fee income on the consolidated statements of income are $126,726, $107,854 and $84,137 of advisory, management and trustee fee income from these affiliated entities for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The Company’s separate accounts invest in shares of Great-West Funds, Inc. and Putnam Funds, which are affiliates of the Company and shares of other non-affiliated mutual funds and government and corporate bonds.  The Company’s separate accounts include mutual funds or other investment options that purchase guaranteed interest annuity contracts issued by the Company.  During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, these purchases totaled $132,961, $198,107 and $131,593, respectively.  As the general account investment contracts are also included in the separate account balances in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, the Company has reduced the separate account assets and liabilities by $343,471 and $333,074 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, to eliminate these amounts in its consolidated balance sheets at those dates.
	On January 1, 2013, the Company terminated its reinsurance agreement with its affiliate, CLAC, pursuant to which it had ceded certain participating life business on a coinsurance basis.
	The Company recorded, at fair value, the following on January 1, 2013, in its consolidated balance sheet in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement:
	Assets					Liabilities
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	44,104			Undistributed earnings on participating business		$	4,781
	Policy loans	6,468				Due to parent and affiliates		3,841
	Reinsurance receivable	(42,297		)
	Investment income due and accrued	347
	Total	$	8,622			Total		$	8,622
	The Company recorded the following on January 1, 2013, in its consolidated statement of income in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement:
	Premium income	$	42,297
	Other revenue	7,355
	Total	49,652
Increase in future policy benefits	41,297
Dividends to policyholders	1,000
Total	42,297
Participating policyholders’ net income before income taxes	7,355
Income tax expense	2,574
Participating policyholders’ income	4,781
Provision for policyholders’ share of earnings on participating business	4,781
Net income available to shareholder	$	—
In 2013, the Company performed its regular review of the investment portfolios.  As a result of that review, on December 1, 2013, the Company transferred $3,862 of cash and two mortgages with a market value of $28,959 to CLAC in exchange for four fixed maturity investments with a market value of $32,821.  As a result of the transaction, the Company recognized realized investment loss of $1,041.

Summary_of_Investments

Summary of Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Summary of Investments	Summary of Investments
	The following tables summarize fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale and the non-credit-related component of OTTI in AOCI:
		31-Dec-14
		Amortized			Gross unrealized			Gross unrealized			Estimated fair value		OTTI (gain) loss
	Fixed maturities:	cost			gains			losses			and carrying value		included in AOCI (1)
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	3,478,153		$	70,597		$	1,494		$	3,547,256	$	—
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	1,885,715			287,668			899			2,172,484		—
	Foreign government securities	2,455			—			4			2,451		—
	Corporate debt securities (2)	11,258,517			763,036			82,104			11,939,449		(2,228		)
	Asset-backed securities	1,263,089			149,152			13,702			1,398,539		(96,603		)
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	167,793			7,368			1,932			173,229		(185		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	886,748			32,556			1,099			918,205		—
	Collateralized debt obligations	10,674			—			209			10,465		—
	Total fixed maturities	$	18,953,144		$	1,310,377		$	101,443		$	20,162,078	$	(99,016	)
	(1) Indicates the amount of any OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI that is included in gross unrealized gains and losses.  OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI, as presented above, includes both the initial recognition of non-credit losses and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities with previous non-credit impairment. The non-credit loss component of OTTI (gain) loss was in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	(2) Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $157,742 and estimated fair value of $131,799.
		31-Dec-13
		Amortized			Gross unrealized			Gross unrealized			Estimated fair value		OTTI (gain) loss
	Fixed maturities:	cost			gains			losses			and carrying value		included in AOCI (1)
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	3,044,185		$	43,827		$	23,373		$	3,064,639	$	—
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	1,763,797			196,742			16,952			1,943,587		—
	Foreign government securities	2,617			—			14			2,603		—
	Corporate debt securities (2)	10,454,252			568,261			223,532			10,798,981		(2,553		)
	Asset-backed securities	1,553,510			131,277			29,150			1,655,637		(98,502		)
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	244,723			8,335			3,473			249,585		(129		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	731,688			21,951			11,515			742,124		—
	Collateralized debt obligations	12,587			14			213			12,388		—
	Total fixed maturities	$	17,807,359		$	970,407		$	308,222		$	18,469,544	$	(101,184	)
	(1) Indicates the amount of any OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI that is included in gross unrealized gains and losses.  OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI, as presented above, includes both the initial recognition of non-credit losses and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities with previous non-credit impairment. The non-credit loss component of OTTI (gain) loss was in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	(2) Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $172,054 and estimated fair value of $143,644.
	See Note 8 for additional discussion regarding fair value measurements.
	The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale, based on estimated cash flows, are shown in the table below.  Actual maturities will likely differ from these projections because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
		31-Dec-14
		Amortized cost			Estimated fair value
	Maturing in one year or less	$	567,095		$	595,521
	Maturing after one year through five years	3,583,929			3,887,276
	Maturing after five years through ten years	4,098,780			4,331,464
	Maturing after ten years	5,203,246			5,636,566
	Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities	5,500,094			5,711,251
	Total fixed maturities	$	18,953,144		$	20,162,078
	Mortgage-backed (commercial and residential) and asset-backed securities include those issued by U.S. government and U.S. agencies.
	The following table summarizes information regarding the sales of securities classified as available-for-sale:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Proceeds from sales	$	2,705,999		$	2,518,568		$	2,697,809
	Gross realized gains from sales	47,852			71,758			113,984
	Gross realized losses from sales	1,229			27,792			4,371
	Included in net investment income are unrealized gains (losses) of $3,119, $(9,447) and $(634) on held for trading fixed maturity investments still held at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Mortgage loans on real estate - The following table summarizes the carrying value of the mortgage loan portfolio by component:
		31-Dec-14			31-Dec-13
	Principal	$	3,356,374		$	3,124,626
	Unamortized premium (discount) and fees, net	10,086			12,519
	Mortgage provision allowance	(2,890		)	(2,890		)
	Total mortgage loans	$	3,363,570		$	3,134,255
	The recorded investment of the mortgage loan portfolio categorized as performing was $3,366,460 and $3,137,145 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The following table summarizes activity in the mortgage provision allowance:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		Commercial mortgages			Commercial mortgages			Commercial mortgages
	Beginning balance	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	21,130
	Provision increases	—			273			1,067
	Charge-off	—			(273		)	(992		)
	Recovery	—			—			(75		)
	Provision decreases	—			—			(18,240		)
Ending balance	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	2,890
Allowance ending balance by basis of impairment method:
Collectively evaluated for impairment	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	2,890
Recorded investment balance in the mortgage loan portfolio, gross of allowance, by basis of impairment method:	$	3,366,460		$	3,137,145		$	2,884,648
Individually evaluated for impairment	12,986			13,906			14,970
Collectively evaluated for impairment	3,353,474			3,123,239			2,869,678
Limited partnership and other corporation interests - At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had $49,421 and $79,236, respectively, invested in limited partnership and other corporation interests.  Included in limited partnership interests are investments in low-income housing partnerships (“LIHLP”) that qualify for federal and state tax credits and ownership interests in pooled investment funds.
The Company has determined each investment in LIHLP to be considered a VIE but consolidation was not required because the Company has no power through voting rights or similar rights to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entities’ economic performance. As a 99% limited partner in various upper-tier LIHLPs, the Company expects to receive the tax credits allocated to the partnership and operating losses from depreciation and interest expense.  The general partner is most closely involved in the development and management of the LIHLP project and has a small ownership of the partnership.
The carrying value and maximum exposure to loss in relation to the activities of the VIEs was $7,464 and $31,563 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Special deposits and securities lending - The Company had securities on deposit with government authorities as required by certain insurance laws with fair values of $14,612 and $14,072 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The Company participates in a securities lending program whereby securities are loaned to third parties.  Securities with a cost or amortized cost of $15,252 and $28,178 and estimated fair values of $15,423 and $27,166 were on loan under the program at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company received cash of $13,741 and $18,534 and securities with a fair value of $2,131 and $9,424 as collateral at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale - The following tables summarize unrealized investment losses, including the non-credit-related portion of OTTI losses reported in AOCI, by class of investment:
	31-Dec-14
	Less than twelve months						Twelve months or longer					Total
	Estimated			Unrealized			Estimated			Unrealized		Estimated			Unrealized
Fixed maturities:	fair value			loss and OTTI			fair value			loss and OTTI		fair value			loss and OTTI
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	566,335		$	503		$	74,322		$	991	$	640,657		$	1,494
Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	18,280			218			41,064			681		59,344			899
Foreign government securities	2,451			4			—			—		2,451			4
Corporate debt securities	836,263			16,775			764,528			65,329		1,600,791			82,104
Asset-backed securities	88,312			849			200,072			12,853		288,384			13,702
Residential mortgage-backed securities	4,663			11			24,052			1,921		28,715			1,932
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	35,015			127			57,333			972		92,348			1,099
Collateralized debt obligations	10,465			209			—			—		10,465			209
Total fixed maturities	$	1,561,784		$	18,696		$	1,161,371		$	82,747	$	2,723,155		$	101,443
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position				134						153					287
	31-Dec-13
	Less than twelve months						Twelve months or longer					Total
	Estimated			Unrealized			Estimated			Unrealized		Estimated			Unrealized
Fixed maturities:	fair value			loss and OTTI			fair value			loss and OTTI		fair value			loss and OTTI
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	2,399,373		$	23,156		$	5,192		$	217	$	2,404,565		$	23,373
Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	214,979			16,713			837			239		215,816			16,952
Foreign government securities	2,603			14			—			—		2,603			14
Corporate debt securities	2,632,093			144,367			511,376			79,165		3,143,469			223,532
Asset-backed securities	305,377			12,763			305,740			16,387		611,117			29,150
Residential mortgage-backed securities	32,131			3,454			1,011			19		33,142			3,473
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	177,395			6,703			48,825			4,812		226,220			11,515
Collateralized debt obligations	—			—			12,356			213		12,356			213
Total fixed maturities	$	5,763,951		$	207,170		$	885,337		$	101,052	$	6,649,288		$	308,222
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position				458						109					567
Fixed maturity investments - Total unrealized losses and OTTI decreased by $206,779, or 67%, from December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2014.  The majority, or $188,474, of the decrease was in the less than twelve months category. The decrease in unrealized losses was across all asset classes and reflects lower interest rates at December 31, 2014 compared to December 31, 2013.
Total unrealized losses greater than twelve months decreased by $18,305 from December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2014.  Corporate debt securities account for 79%, or $65,329, of the unrealized losses and OTTI greater than twelve months at December 31, 2014. Non-investment grade corporate debt securities account for $9,921 of the unrealized losses and OTTI greater than twelve months and $8,899 of the losses are on perpetual debt investments issued by investment grade rated banks in the United Kingdom. Management does not have the intent to sell these assets; therefore, an OTTI was not recognized in earnings.
Asset-backed securities account for 16% of the unrealized losses and OTTI greater than twelve months at December 31, 2014.  The present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is not less than amortized cost and management does not have the intent to sell these assets; therefore, an OTTI was not recognized in earnings.
Other-than-temporary impairment recognition - The OTTI on fixed maturity securities where the loss portion is bifurcated and the credit related component is recognized in realized investment gains (losses) is summarized as follows:
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Beginning balance	$	167,961		$	167,788		$	186,999
Additions:
Initial impairments - credit loss on securities not previously impaired	—			—			4,429
Credit loss recognized on securities previously impaired	—			173			—
Reductions:
Due to sales, maturities, or payoffs during the period	(646		)	—			(23,640		)
Due to increases in cash flows expected to be collected that are recognized over the remaining life of the security	(47,783		)	—			—
Ending balance	$	119,532		$	167,961		$	167,788
Net Investment Income
The following table summarizes net investment income:
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Investment income:
Fixed maturity and short-term investments	$	816,907		$	766,367		$	808,215
Mortgage loans on real estate	149,497			147,944			138,411
Policy loans	207,013			206,718			213,300
Limited partnership interests	9,128			9,131			7,566
Net interest on funds withheld balances under reinsurance agreements, related party	21,295			20,876			19,382
Derivative instruments (1)	39,533			(44,610		)	16,008
Other	5,008			3,321			5,222
	1,248,381			1,109,747			1,208,104
Investment expenses	(19,993		)	(18,358		)	(16,553		)
Net investment income	$	1,228,388		$	1,091,389		$	1,191,551
(1) Includes gains (losses) on the hedged asset for fair value hedges.
Realized Investment Gains (Losses)
The following table summarizes realized investment gains (losses):
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
Realized investment gains (losses):
Fixed maturity and short-term investments	$	54,219		$	37,312		$	105,675
Derivative instruments	90,504			(62,077		)	(10,221		)
Mortgage loans on real estate	6,857			10,895			21,471
Other	(4,209		)	(266		)	(208		)
Realized investment gains (losses)	$	147,371		$	(14,136	)	$	116,717
Included in net investment income and realized investment gains (losses) are amounts allocable to the participating fund account.  This allocation is based upon the activity in a specific block of investments that are segmented for the benefit of the participating fund account.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments
	Derivative transactions are generally entered into pursuant to International Swaps and Derivatives Association (“ISDA”) Master agreements or Master Securities Forward Transaction Agreements (“MSFTA”) with approved counterparties that provide for a single net payment to be made by one party to the other on a daily basis, periodic payment dates, or at the due date, expiration or termination of the agreement.
	The ISDA master agreements contain provisions that would allow the counterparties to require immediate settlement of all derivative instruments in a net liability position if the Company were to default on any debt obligations over a certain threshold.  The MSFTA contain provisions which do not stipulate a threshold for default and only apply to debt obligations between the Company and the specific counterparty. The aggregate fair value, inclusive of accrued income and expense, of derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that were in a net liability position was $141,653 and $167,743 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company had pledged collateral related to these derivatives of $106,110 and $143,540 as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, in the normal course of business.  If the credit-risk-related contingent features were triggered on December 31, 2014, the fair value of assets that could be required to settle the derivatives in a net liability position was $35,543.
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had pledged $106,110 and $143,710, respectively, of unrestricted cash collateral to counterparties in the normal course of business.
	At December 31, 2014, the Company estimated $8,500 of net derivative gains related to cash flow hedges included in AOCI will be reclassified into net income within the next twelve months. Gains and losses included in AOCI are reclassified into net income when the hedged item affects earnings.
	Types of derivative instruments and derivative strategies
	Interest rate contracts
	Cash flow hedges
	Interest rate swap agreements are used to convert the interest rate on certain debt securities from a floating rate to a fixed rate.  Interest rate futures are used to manage the interest rate risks of forecasted acquisitions of fixed rate maturity investments.  These derivatives are primarily structured to hedge interest rate risk inherent in the assumptions used to price certain liabilities.
	Fair value hedges
	Interest rate swap agreements are used to convert the interest rate on certain debt securities from a fixed rate to a floating rate to manage the interest rate risk of the change in the fair value of certain fixed rate maturity investments.
	Not designated as hedging instruments
	The Company enters into certain transactions in which derivatives are hedging an economic risk but hedge accounting is not elected.  These derivative instruments include:  exchange-traded interest rate swap futures, OTC interest rate swaptions, OTC interest rate swaps, exchange-traded Eurodollar interest rate futures and treasury interest rate futures.  Certain of the Company’s OTC derivatives are cleared and settled through a central clearing counterparty while others are bilateral contracts between the Company and a counterparty.
	The derivative instruments mentioned above are economic hedges and used to manage risk.  These transactions are used to offset changes in liabilities including those in variable annuity products, hedge the economic effect of a large increase in interest rates, manage the potential variability in future interest payments due to a change in credited interest rates and the related change in cash flows due to increased surrenders and manage interest rate risks of forecasted acquisitions of fixed rate maturity investments and forecasted liability pricing.
	Cross-currency contracts
	Cross-currency swaps are used to manage the foreign currency exchange rate risk associated with investments denominated in other than U.S. dollars.  The Company uses cross-currency swaps to convert interest and principal payments on foreign denominated debt instruments into U.S. dollars.  Cross-currency swaps may be designated as cash flow hedges; however, hedge accounting is not always elected.
	Equity contracts
	Futures on equity indices are used to reduce the Company’s exposure to equity market risks; however, hedge accounting is not elected.  The Company is hedging the risk of declining equity market values having an adverse effect on fee income collected on equity funds. The Company also uses futures on equity indices to offset changes in guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit liabilities.
	Other contracts
	The Company uses forward settling TBA securities to gain exposure to the investment risk and return of agency mortgage-backed securities (pass-throughs).  These transactions enhance the return on the Company’s investment portfolio and provide a more liquid and cost effective method of achieving these goals than purchasing or selling individual agency mortgage-backed pools.  As the Company does not regularly accept delivery of such securities, they are accounted for as derivatives but hedge accounting is not elected.  These transactions are disclosed as Other forward contracts.
	The following tables summarize derivative financial instruments:
		31-Dec-14
						Net derivatives				Asset derivatives				Liability derivatives
		Notional amount				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)
	Hedge designation/derivative type:
	Derivatives designated as hedges:
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	184,200			$	17,746			$	17,746			$	—
	Cross-currency swaps	174,245				2,322				5,143				2,821
	Total cash flow hedges	358,445				20,068				22,889				2,821
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	78,000				1,506				1,637				131
	Total fair value hedges	78,000				1,506				1,637				131
	Total derivatives designated as hedges	436,445				21,574				24,526				2,952
	Derivatives not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	128,100				4,402				6,246				1,844
	Futures on equity indices	5,505				—				—				—
	Interest rate futures	17,958				—				—				—
	Interest rate swaptions	293,964				271				271				—
	Cross-currency swaps	662,935				(127,230		)		4,561				131,791
	Total derivatives not designated as hedges	1,108,462				(122,557		)		11,078				133,635
	Total derivative financial instruments	$	1,544,907			$	(100,983	)		$	35,604			$	136,587
	(1) The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
		31-Dec-13
						Net derivatives				Asset derivatives				Liability derivatives
		Notional amount				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)
	Hedge designation/derivative type:
	Derivatives designated as hedges:
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	184,200			$	13,829			$	13,829			$	—
	Cross-currency swaps	102,545				(7,843		)		—				7,843
	Total cash flow hedges	286,745				5,986				13,829				7,843
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	78,000				4,951				5,098				147
	Total fair value hedges	78,000				4,951				5,098				147
	Total derivatives designated as hedges	364,745				10,937				18,927				7,990
	Derivatives not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	55,600				(2,038		)		1,454				3,492
	Futures on equity indices	3,483				—				—				—
	Interest rate futures	16,233				—				—				—
	Interest rate swaptions	494,774				1,176				1,176				—
	Cross-currency swaps	557,676				(154,340		)		1,921				156,261
	Total derivatives not designated as hedges	1,127,766				(155,202		)		4,551				159,753
	Total derivative financial instruments	$	1,492,511			$	(144,265	)		$	23,478			$	167,743
(1) The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
Notional amounts are used to express the extent of the Company’s involvement in derivative transactions and represent a standard measurement of the volume of its derivative activity.  Notional amounts represent those amounts used to calculate contractual flows to be exchanged and are not paid or received. The average notional outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2014 was $340,262, $732,581, $21,702, $407,552, and $4,217,408 for interest rate swaps, cross-currency swaps,
futures, swaptions and other forward contracts, respectively. The average notional outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2013 was $351,579, $608,787, $46,564, $606,374, and $3,543,173 for interest rate swaps, cross-currency swaps, futures,
swaptions and other forward contracts, respectively.
The following tables present the effect of derivative instruments in the consolidated statement of income reported by cash flow hedges, fair value hedges and economic hedges:
	Gain (loss) recognized												Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI
	in OCI on derivatives												into net income (Effective portion)
	(Effective portion)
	Year Ended December 31,												Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012				2014			2013			2012
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate swaps	$	9,096			$	(12,285	)		$	5,220			$	7,462		$	5,067		$	2,856	(A)
Cross-currency swaps	11,041				15,387				(24,101		)		1,030			—			—		(A)
Cross-currency swaps	—				—				—				(154		)	—			—		(B)
Interest rate futures	—				—				—				70			63			63		(A)
Total cash flow hedges	$	20,137			$	3,102			$	(18,881	)		$	8,408		$	5,130		$	2,919
(A) Net investment income.
(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.
	Gain (loss) on derivatives												Gain (loss) on hedged assets
	recognized in net income												recognized in net income
	Year Ended December 31,												Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012				2014			2013			2012
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate swaps	$	(3,444	)		$	6,342			$	(380	)	(A)	$	—		$	—		$	—
Interest rate swaps	—				1,909				—			(B)	—			—			—
Items hedged in interest rate swaps	—				—				—				3,439			(5,308		)	380		(A)
Items hedged in interest rate swaps	—				—				—				—			(2,943		)	—		(B)
Total fair value hedges (1)	$	(3,444	)		$	8,251			$	(380	)		$	3,439		$	(8,251	)	$	380
(1) Hedge ineffectiveness of ($5), zero and zero was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
(A) Net investment income.
(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.
	Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013				2012
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Futures on equity indices	$	(41	)	(A)	$	(97	)	(A)	$	2		(A)
Futures on equity indices	(534		)	(B)	(3,396		)	(B)	(774		)	(B)
Interest rate swaps	6,508			(A)	(3,668		)	(A)	8,620			(A)
Interest rate swaps	—			(B)	(622		)	(B)	(4,979		)	(B)
Interest rate futures	(51		)	(A)	(458		)	(A)	164			(A)
Interest rate futures	305			(B)	303			(B)	(2,641		)	(B)
Interest rate swaptions	2,424			(A)	3,241			(A)	862			(A)
Interest rate swaptions	(3,578		)	(B)	(2,828		)	(B)	(1,827		)	(B)
Other forward contracts	94,465			(B)	(57,442		)	(B)	—			(B)
Cross-currency swaps	24,588			(A)	(50,111		)	(A)	—			(A)
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	$	124,086			$	(115,078	)		$	(573	)
(A) Net investment income.
(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.

Summary_of_Offsetting_Assets_a

Summary of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Offsetting [Abstract]
Summary of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities	Summary of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities
	The Company enters into derivative transactions with several approved counterparties. The Company’s derivative transactions are generally governed by ISDA or MSFTA Master Agreements which provide for legally enforceable set-off and close-out netting in the event of default or bankruptcy of the Company’s counterparties.  The Company’s ISDA and MSFTA Master Agreements generally include provisions which require both the pledging and accepting of collateral in connection with its derivative transactions. These provisions have the effect of securing each party’s position to the extent of collateral held.  The following tables summarize the effect of master netting arrangements on the Company’s financial position in the normal course of business and in the event of default or bankruptcy of the Company’s counterparties:
		31-Dec-14
				Gross fair value not offset
				in balance sheets
		Gross fair value of		Financial			Cash collateral			Net
	Financial instruments:	recognized assets/liabilities (1)		instruments			received/(pledged)			fair value
	Derivative instruments (assets) (2)	$	32,895	$	(32,595	)	$	279		$	21
	Derivative instruments (liabilities) (3)	140,655		(32,595		)	(105,929		)	2,131
		31-Dec-13
				Gross fair value not offset
				in balance sheets
		Gross fair value of		Financial			Cash collateral			Net
	Financial instruments:	recognized assets/liabilities (1)		instruments			received/(pledged)			fair value
	Derivative instruments (assets) (2)	$	25,250	$	(25,023	)	$	—		$	227
	Derivative instruments (liabilities) (3)	171,387		(25,023		)	(143,540		)	2,824
	(1) The gross fair value of derivative instruments are not netted against offsetting liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets.
	(2) The estimated fair value of derivative instrument assets is reported in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.
	(3) The estimated fair value of derivative instrument liabilities is reported in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	Recurring fair value measurements
	The following tables present the Company’s financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis by fair value hierarchy category:
		Assets and liabilities measured at
		fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-14
		Quoted prices			Significant other			Significant			Total
		in active markets			observable inputs			unobservable
		for identical assets (Level 1)			(Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	—		$	3,547,256		$	—		$	3,547,256
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	—			2,172,484			—			2,172,484
	Foreign government securities	—			2,451			—			2,451
	Corporate debt securities	—			11,933,607			5,842			11,939,449
	Asset-backed securities	—			1,398,503			36			1,398,539
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			173,229			—			173,229
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			918,205			—			918,205
	Collateralized debt obligations	—			10,465			—			10,465
	Total fixed maturities available-for-sale	—			20,156,200			5,878			20,162,078
	Fixed maturities held for trading:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	—			279,602			—			279,602
	Corporate debt securities	—			57,850			—			57,850
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			1,091			—			1,091
	Total fixed maturities held for trading	—			338,543			—			338,543
	Short-term investments	156,935			106,566			—			263,501
	Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741			—			—			13,741
	Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	106,901			—			—			106,901
	Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			19,383			—			19,383
	Cross-currency swaps	—			5,143			—			5,143
	Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			6,246			—			6,246
	Interest rate swaptions	—			271			—			271
	Cross-currency swaps	—			4,561			—			4,561
	Total derivative instruments	—			35,604			—			35,604
	Separate account assets	16,146,057			11,572,787						27,718,844
	Total assets	$	16,423,634		$	32,209,700		$	5,878		$	48,639,212
	Liabilities
	Payable under securities lending agreements	$	13,741		$	—		$	—		$	13,741
	Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	791			—			—			791
	Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			131			—			131
	Cross-currency swaps	—			2,821			—			2,821
	Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			1,844			—			1,844
	Cross-currency swaps	—			131,791			—			131,791
	Total derivative instruments	—			136,587			—			136,587
	Separate account liabilities (1)	15			217,712			—			217,727
	Total liabilities	$	14,547		$	354,299		$	—		$	368,846
	(1) Includes only separate account instruments which are carried at the fair value of the underlying liabilities owned by the separate accounts.
		Assets and liabilities measured at
		fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-13
		Quoted prices			Significant other			Significant			Total
		in active markets			observable inputs			unobservable
		for identical assets (Level 1)			(Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	—		$	3,064,639		$	—		$	3,064,639
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	—			1,943,587			—			1,943,587
	Foreign government securities	—			2,603			—			2,603
	Corporate debt securities	—			10,792,329			6,652			10,798,981
	Asset-backed securities	—			1,402,679			252,958			1,655,637
Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			249,585			—			249,585
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			742,124			—			742,124
Collateralized debt obligations	—			12,356			32			12,388
Total fixed maturities available-for-sale	—			18,209,902			259,642			18,469,544
Fixed maturities held for trading:
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	—			236,000			—			236,000
Corporate debt securities	—			58,171			—			58,171
Asset-backed securities	—			40,858			—			40,858
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			1,026			—			1,026
Total fixed maturities held for trading	—			336,055			—			336,055
Short-term investments	254,378			39,909			—			294,287
Collateral under securities lending agreements	18,534			—			—			18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	143,710			—			—			143,710
Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			18,927			—			18,927
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			1,454			—			1,454
Interest rate swaptions	—			1,176			—			1,176
Cross-currency swaps	—			1,921			—			1,921
Total derivative instruments	—			23,478			—			23,478
Separate account assets	14,861,680			11,769,224			—			26,630,904
Total assets	$	15,278,302		$	30,378,568		$	259,642		$	45,916,512
Liabilities
Payable under securities lending agreements	$	18,534		$	—		$	—		$	18,534
Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			147			—			147
Cross-currency swaps	—			7,843			—			7,843
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			3,492			—			3,492
Cross-currency swaps	—			156,261			—			156,261
Total derivative instruments	—			167,743			—			167,743
Separate account liabilities (1)	2			166,325			—			166,327
Total liabilities	$	18,536		$	334,068		$	—		$	352,604
(1)  Includes only separate account instruments which are carried at the fair value of the underlying liabilities owned by the separate accounts.
The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:
Fixed maturity investments
The fair values for fixed maturity investments are based upon market prices from independent pricing services.  In cases where market prices are not readily available, fair values are estimated by the Company. To determine estimated fair value for these instruments, the Company generally utilizes discounted cash flow models with market observable pricing inputs such as spreads, average life and credit quality. Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on available market information and judgments about financial instruments, including estimates of the timing and amounts of expected future cash flows and the credit standing of the issuer or counterparty.
Short-term investments and securities lending agreements
The amortized cost of short-term investments, collateral under securities lending agreements and payable under securities lending agreements is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to their short-term nature and high credit quality of the issuers.
Derivative counterparty collateral agreements
Included in other assets is cash collateral received from or pledged to derivative counterparties and included in other liabilities is the obligation to return the cash collateral to the counterparties.  The carrying value of the collateral is a reasonable estimate of fair value.
Derivative instruments
Included in other assets and other liabilities are derivative financial instruments. The estimated fair values of OTC derivatives, primarily consisting of cross-currency swaps, interest rate swaps and interest rate swaptions, are the estimated amounts the Company would receive or pay to terminate the agreements at the end of each reporting period, taking into consideration current interest rates and other relevant factors.
Separate account assets and liabilities
Separate account assets and liabilities primarily include investments in mutual fund, fixed maturity and short-term securities.  Mutual funds are recorded at net asset value, which approximates fair value, on a daily basis.  The fixed maturity and short-term investments are valued in the same manner, and using the same pricing sources and inputs as the fixed maturity and short-term investments of the Company.
The following tables present additional information about assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:
	Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
	Year Ended December 31, 2014
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale
	Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized
	debt securities			securities			debt obligations			Total
Balances, January 1, 2014	$	6,652		$	252,958		$	32		$	259,642
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
Net Income	—			—			(17		)	(17		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(178		)	—			(15		)	(193		)
Settlements	(632		)	(19		)	—			(651		)
Transfers out of Level 3 (1)	—			(252,903		)	—			(252,903		)
Balances, December 31, 2014	$	5,842		$	36		$	—		$	5,878
Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2014	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
(1) Transfers out of Level 3 are due primarily to increased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies as evidenced by corroboration of market prices with multiple pricing vendors and internal models.
	Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale
	Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized
	debt securities			securities			debt obligations			Total
Balances, January 1, 2013	$	1,822		$	265,538		$	32		$	267,392
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(240		)	34,766			—			34,526
Settlements	(762		)	(47,346		)	—			(48,108		)
Transfers into Level 3 (1)	5,832			—			—			5,832
Balances, December 31, 2013	$	6,652		$	252,958		$	32		$	259,642
Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
(1) Transfers into Level 3 are due primarily to decreased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies.
	Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale
	Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized			Separate
	debt securities			securities			debt obligations			accounts			Total
1-Jan-12	$	36,496		$	279,021		$	22		$	2,118		$	317,657
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
Net income	(66		)	—			—			(3,692		)	(3,758		)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	102			33,346			11			3,604			37,063
Sales	(1,598		)	—			—			(1,997		)	(3,595		)
Settlements	(874		)	(41,809		)	(1		)	(33		)	(42,717		)
Transfers out of Level 3 (1)	(32,238		)	(5,020		)	—			—			(37,258		)
Balances, December 31, 2012	$	1,822		$	265,538		$	32		$	—		$	267,392
Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2012	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
(1) Transfers out of Level 3 are due primarily to increased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies as evidenced by corroboration of market prices with multiple pricing vendors and internal models.
The following table presents significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of certain assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table:
	31-Dec-13
	Fair Value			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Weighted
				Technique			Average
Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
Asset-backed securities (1)	$	252,902		Internal model pricing		Prepayment speed assumption	9
						Constant default rate assumption	5
						Adjusted ABX Index spread assumption (2)	455
(1)  Includes home improvement loans only.
(2)  Includes an internally calculated liquidity premium adjustment of 217.
At December 31, 2013, after adjusting the ABX Index spread assumption by the liquidity premium, the overall discount rate ranged from 327 to 647 basis points.  The constant default rate assumption ranged from 2.0 to 12.9.
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of asset-backed securities are prepayment speed assumptions, constant default rate assumptions and the ABX Index spread adjusted by an internally calculated liquidity premium with the primary inputs being the constant default rate assumption and the adjusted ABX Index spread assumption.  As the constant default rate assumption or the adjusted ABX Index spread assumption increases, the price and therefore, the fair value, of the securities decreases.
Non-recurring fair value measurements - Certain assets are measured at estimated fair value on a non-recurring basis and are not included in the tables above. The Company held $9,242 and zero of adjusted cost basis limited partnership interests which were impaired at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, based on the fair value disclosed in the limited partnership financial statements. These limited partnership interests were recorded at estimated fair value and represent a non-recurring fair value measurement. The estimated fair value was categorized as Level 3.
Fair value of financial instruments
The following tables summarize the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments not carried at fair value on a recurring basis:
	31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
	Carrying			Estimated			Carrying			Estimated
	amount			fair value			amount			fair value
Assets
Mortgage loans on real estate	$	3,363,570		$	3,558,111		$	3,134,255		$	3,197,292
Policy loans	4,130,062			4,130,062			4,185,472			4,185,472
Limited partnership interests	38,796			41,853			44,551			42,433
Other investments	15,614			43,263			16,643			42,814
Liabilities
Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies	$	10,569,147		$	10,563,477		$	10,263,043		$	9,986,464
Policyholders’ funds	335,484			335,484			345,689			345,689
Commercial paper	98,589			98,589			98,990			98,990
Notes payable	532,547			564,904			532,519			541,918
The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments not carried at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized as follows:
Mortgage loans on real estate
Mortgage loan fair value estimates are generally based on discounted cash flows.  A discount rate matrix is used where the discount rate valuing a specific mortgage generally corresponds to that mortgage’s remaining term and credit quality.  Management believes the discount rate used is comparable to the credit, interest rate, term, servicing costs and risks of loans similar to the portfolio loans that the Company would make today given its internal pricing strategy.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.
Policy loans
Policy loans are funds provided to policyholders in return for a claim on the policy. The funds provided are limited to the cash surrender value of the underlying policy. The nature of policy loans is to have a negligible default risk as the loans are fully collateralized by the value of the policy. Policy loans do not have a stated maturity and the balances and accrued interest are repaid either by the policyholder or with proceeds from the policy. Due to the collateralized nature of policy loans and unpredictable timing of repayments, the Company believes the fair value of policy loans approximates their carrying value.  The estimated fair value is classified as Level 2.
Limited partnership interests
Limited partnership interests, accounted for using the cost method, represent the Company’s minor ownership interests in pooled investment funds.  These funds employ varying investment strategies that principally make private equity investments across diverse industries and geographical focuses.  The estimated fair value was determined using the partnership financial statement reported capital account or net asset value adjusted for other relevant information which may impact the exit value of the investments.  Distributions by these investments are generated from investment gains, from operating income generated by the underlying investments of the funds and from liquidation of the underlying assets of the funds which are estimated to be liquidated over the next 1 to 10 years.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 3.
Other investments
Other investments primarily include real estate held for investment.  The estimated fair value for real estate is based on the unadjusted annual appraised value which includes factors such as comparable property sales, property income analysis, and capitalization rates.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.
Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies
The estimated fair value of annuity contract benefits without life contingencies is estimated by discounting the projected expected cash flows to the maturity of the contracts utilizing risk-free spot interest rates plus a provision for the Company’s credit risk.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.
Policyholders’ funds
The carrying amount of policyholders’ funds approximates the fair value since the Company can change the interest credited rates with 30 days notice. The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.
Commercial paper
The amortized cost of commercial paper is a reasonable estimate of fair value due to its short-term nature and the high credit quality of the obligor.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.
Notes payable
The estimated fair value of the notes payable to GWL&A Financial is based upon quoted market prices from independent pricing services of securities with characteristics similar to those of the notes payable.  The estimated fair value was classified as Level 2.

Minimum_Guarantees

Minimum Guarantees	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Minimum Guarantees	Minimum Guarantees
	The Company calculates additional reserve liabilities for GMDB. The following assumptions and methodology were used to determine GMDB additional reserves at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Area	Assumptions/Basis for Assumptions
	Data Used	Based on 1,050 investment performance scenarios
	Mean Investment Performance	Investment performance modeled in 3 classes:
		Regular Equity - 10%
		Aggressive Equity - 12%
		Fixed, Bond, Money Market Fund: level 3%
	Volatility	Volatility modeled in 3 classes:
		Regular Equity - 23%
		Aggressive Equity - 33%
		Fixed, Bond, Money Market Fund: None
	Mortality	Based on the 1994 VA MGDB Mortality Table
	Lapse Rates	Lapse Rates vary by duration and surrender charge
	Discount Rates	5%
	The separate account liabilities subject to the requirements for additional reserve liabilities for GMDB, net amount at risk, net of reinsurance, and the weighted average attained age of contract owners for GMDB at December 31, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
		GMDB
	December 31, 2014
	Separate account liability	$	60,388
	Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance	$	30,095
	Weighted average attained age	69
	December 31, 2013
	Separate account liability	$	61,140
	Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance	$	32,032
	Weighted average attained age	69
	The paid and incurred amounts for GMDB for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Additional liability balance:
	Balances, January 1,	$	5,993		$	6,928		$	7,954
	Incurred guaranteed benefits	305			(135		)	(613		)
	Paid guaranteed benefits	(732		)	(800		)	(413		)
	Balances, December 31,	$	5,566		$	5,993		$	6,928
	The aggregate fair value of equity securities supporting separate accounts with GMDB were $60,368 and $61,137 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Reinsurance	Reinsurance
	In the normal course of its business, the Company seeks to limit its exposure to loss on any single insured and to recover a portion of benefits paid by ceding risks to other insurance enterprises under excess coverage, quota share, yearly renewable term, coinsurance and modified coinsurance contracts. The Company retains an initial maximum of $3,500 of coverage per individual life. This initial retention limit of $3,500 may increase due to automatic policy increases in coverage at a maximum rate of $175 per annum, with an overall maximum increase in coverage of $1,000.
	Ceded reinsurance contracts do not relieve the Company from its obligations to policyholders. The failure of reinsurers to honor their obligations could result in losses to the Company.  The Company evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers and monitors concentrations of credit risk arising from similar geographic regions, activities or economic characteristics of the reinsurers to minimize its exposure to significant losses from reinsurer insolvencies.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the reinsurance receivables had carrying values in the amounts of $611,270 and $588,533, respectively.  Included in these amounts are $529,921 and $502,471 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, associated with reinsurance agreements with a related party.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, 87% and 85%, respectively, of the total reinsurance receivable was due from CLAC, a related party.
	The Company assumes risk from approximately 40 insurers and reinsurers by participating in yearly renewable term and coinsurance pool agreements. When assuming risk, the Company seeks to generate revenue while maintaining reciprocal working relationships with these partners as they also seek to limit their exposure to loss on any single life.
	Maximum capacity to be retained by the Company is dictated at the treaty level and is monitored annually to ensure the total risk retained on any one life is limited to a maximum retention of $4,500.
	The following tables summarize life insurance in-force and total premium income at and for the year ended December 31, 2014:
		Life insurance in-force
		Individual			Group			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	52,836,475		$	41,268,214		$	94,104,689
	Reinsurance ceded	(9,773,885		)	—			(9,773,885		)
	Reinsurance assumed	61,911,865			—			61,911,865
	Net	$	104,974,455		$	41,268,214		$	146,242,669
	Percentage of amount assumed to net	59		%	—		%	42		%
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	360,959		$	1,255		$	362,214
	Reinsurance ceded	(45,925		)	(95		)	(46,020		)
	Reinsurance assumed	130,201			—			130,201
	Net	$	445,235		$	1,160		$	446,395
	The following tables summarize life insurance in-force and total premium income at and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Life insurance in-force
		Individual			Group			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	51,660,487		$	40,520,417		$	92,180,904
	Reinsurance ceded	(9,512,583		)	—			(9,512,583		)
	Reinsurance assumed	66,209,732			—			66,209,732
	Net	$	108,357,636		$	40,520,417		$	148,878,053
	Percentage of amount assumed to net	61		%	—		%	44		%
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	315,100		$	4,000		$	319,100
	Reinsurance ceded	(1,338		)	(88		)	(1,426		)
	Reinsurance assumed	146,419			—			146,419
	Net	$	460,181		$	3,912		$	464,093
	The following table summarizes total premium income for the year ended December 31, 2012:
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	323,236		$	3,712		$	326,948
	Reinsurance ceded	(53,950		)	3,648			(50,302		)
	Reinsurance assumed	145,507			—			145,507
	Net	$	414,793		$	7,360		$	422,153
	Reinsurance recoveries for life and other policy benefits were $23,965, $34,716 and $46,492 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Deferred_Acquisition_Costs_and

Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired	Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired
	The following table summarizes activity in DAC and VOBA:
		DAC			VOBA			Total
	Balances, January 1, 2012	$	177,781		$	42,052		$	219,833
	Capitalized additions	94,826			—			94,826
	Amortization and writedowns	(51,434		)	(9,045		)	(60,479		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	(48,757		)	(962		)	(49,719		)
	Balances, December 31, 2012	172,416			32,045			204,461
	Correction to Balance, January 1, 2013	45,058			—			45,058
	Capitalized additions	80,486			—			80,486
	Amortization and writedowns	(55,490		)	(4,155		)	(59,645		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	71,601			1,327			72,928
	Balances, December 31, 2013	314,071			29,217			343,288
	Capitalized additions	110,315			—			110,315
	Amortization and writedowns	(41,045		)	(3,801		)	(44,846		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	(29,933		)	(130		)	(30,063		)
	Balances, December 31, 2014	$	353,408		$	25,286		$	378,694
	The estimated future amortization of VOBA for the years ended December 31, 2015 through December 31, 2019 is approximately $3,900 per annum.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	The balance of goodwill, all of which is within the Retirement Services segment, is as follows:
		Goodwill
		2014		2013
	Balances, January 1	$	105,255	$	105,255
	Acquisitions (1)	32,428		—
	Balances, December 31	$	137,683	$	105,255
	(1) During 2014, the Company acquired goodwill of $32,428 from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.
	The following tables summarize other intangible assets, all of which are within the Retirement Services segment:
		31-Dec-14
		Gross carrying		Accumulated
		amount		amortization			Net book value
	Customer relationships (1)	$	51,280	$	(24,481	)	$	26,799
	Non-competition (1)	1,325		(209		)	1,116
	Total	$	52,605	$	(24,690	)	$	27,915
		31-Dec-13
		Gross carrying		Accumulated
		amount		amortization			Net book value
	Customer relationships	$	36,314	$	(21,159	)	$	15,155
	(1) During 2014, the Company acquired $14,966 and $1,325 of customer relationship and non-competition intangible assets, respectively, from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.
	Amortization expense for other intangible assets included in general insurance expenses was $3,531, $3,094 and $3,606 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  Except for goodwill, the Company has no intangible assets with indefinite lives.  The Company did not incur costs to renew or extend the term of acquired intangible assets during the year ended December 31, 2014.
	The estimated future amortization of other intangible assets using current assumptions, which are subject to change, for the years ended December 31, 2015 through December 31, 2019 is approximately $3,200 per annum.

Commercial_Paper

Commercial Paper	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Commercial Paper	Commercial Paper
	The Company maintains a commercial paper program that is partially supported by a $50,000 corporate credit facility.
	The following table provides information regarding the Company’s commercial paper program:
		December 31,
		2014	2013
	Face value	$98,589	$98,990
	Carrying value	98,589	98,990
	Effective interest rate	0.20%	0.2% - 0.3%
	Maturity range (days)	27-Jul	22-Feb

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide

Stockholder's Equity and Dividend Restrictions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholder's Equity and Dividend Restrictions	Stockholder’s Equity and Dividend Restrictions
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had 50,000,000 shares of $1 par value preferred stock authorized, none of which was issued or outstanding at either date.  In addition, the Company has 50,000,000 shares of $1 par value common stock authorized, 7,032,000 of which were issued and outstanding at both December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	The Company’s net income and capital and surplus, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”), is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,							December 31,
		2014		2013		2012			2014		2013
	Net income	$	134,091	$	175,292	$	147,741	Capital and surplus	$	1,000,938	$	1,200,609
	Regulatory compliance is determined by a ratio of a company’s total adjusted capital (“TAC”) to its authorized control level risk-based capital (“ACL”), as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the NAIC.  Companies below specific trigger points or ratios are classified within certain levels, each of which requires specified corrective action. The minimum level of TAC before corrective action commences is 200% of ACL.  The Company’s risk-based capital ratio was in excess of the required amount as of December 31, 2014.
	Dividends are paid as determined by the Board of Directors, subject to restrictions as discussed below.  During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company paid dividends in the amounts of $316,401, $102,436 and $184,401, respectively, to its parent company, GWL&A Financial.
	As an insurance company domiciled in the State of Colorado, the Company is required to maintain a minimum of $2,000 of capital and surplus. In addition, the maximum amount of dividends which can be paid to stockholders by insurance companies domiciled in the State of Colorado, without prior approval of the Insurance Commissioner, is subject to restrictions relating to statutory capital and surplus and statutory net gain from operations. As filed with the Colorado Division of Insurance, the statutory capital and surplus and net gain from operations at and for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $1,000,938 and $209,163, respectively.  Based on the as filed amounts, the Company may pay an amount less than $209,163 of dividends during the year ended December 31, 2015 without the prior approval of the Colorado Insurance Commissioner.  Prior to any payments of dividends, the Company seeks approval from the Colorado Insurance Commissioner.

Other_Comprehensive_Income

Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income	Other Comprehensive Income
	The following tables present the accumulated balances for each classification of other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2014	$	434,023			$	25,517			$	(70,000	)	$	(43,786	)	$	345,754
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	381,198				13,089				(38,194		)	(67,380		)	288,713
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(31,038		)		(5,465		)		—			5,054			(31,449		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	350,160				7,624				(38,194		)	(62,326		)	257,264
	Balances, December 31, 2014	$	784,183			$	33,141			$	(108,194	)	$	(106,112	)	$	603,018
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2013	$	927,678			$	24,962			$	(194,147	)	$	(122,794	)	$	635,699
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(467,178		)		2,016				124,147			68,422			(272,593		)
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(26,477		)		(1,461		)		—			10,586			(17,352		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	(493,655		)		555				124,147			79,008			(289,945		)
	Balances, December 31, 2013	$	434,023			$	25,517			$	(70,000	)	$	(43,786	)	$	345,754
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2012	$	646,805			$	41,003			$	(139,655	)	$	(78,171	)	$	469,982
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	347,118				(12,273		)		(54,492		)	(50,771		)	229,582
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(66,245		)		(3,768		)		—			6,148			(63,865		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	280,873				(16,041		)		(54,492		)	(44,623		)	165,717
	Balances, December 31, 2012	$	927,678			$	24,962			$	(194,147	)	$	(122,794	)	$	635,699
	The following tables present the composition of other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	586,458			$	(205,260	)		$	381,198
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	20,137				(7,048		)		13,089
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(56,159		)		19,656				(36,503		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	550,436				(192,652		)		357,784
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	(58,760		)		20,566				(38,194		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	491,676				(172,086		)		319,590
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	(95,886		)		33,560				(62,326		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	395,790			$	(138,526	)		$	257,264
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	(718,735	)		$	251,557			$	(467,178	)
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	3,102				(1,086		)		2,016
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(42,982		)		15,044				(27,938		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	(758,615		)		265,515				(493,100		)
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	190,995				(66,848		)		124,147
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	(567,620		)		198,667				(368,953		)
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	121,551				(42,543		)		79,008
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(446,069	)		$	156,124			$	(289,945	)
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	534,028			$	(186,910	)		$	347,118
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	(18,881		)		6,608				(12,273		)
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(107,713		)		37,700				(70,013		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	407,434				(142,602		)		264,832
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	(83,835		)		29,343				(54,492		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	323,599				(113,259		)		210,340
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	(68,650		)		24,027				(44,623		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	254,949			$	(89,232	)		$	165,717
	The following table presents the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013
	Details about accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components	Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)								Affected line item in the statement where net income is presented
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	(47,751	)		$	(40,734	)		Other realized investment (gains) losses, net
	(47,751		)		(40,734		)		Total before tax
	(16,713		)		(14,257		)		Tax expense or benefit
	(31,038		)		(26,477		)		Net of tax
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on cash flow hedges	(8,408		)		(2,248		)		Net investment income
	(8,408		)		(2,248		)		Total before tax
	(2,943		)		(787		)		Tax expense or benefit
	(5,465		)		(1,461		)		Net of tax
Amortization of employee benefit plan items
Prior service costs (benefits)	3,189			(1)	(666		)	(1)
Actuarial losses (gains)	2,730			(1)	16,952			(1)
Settlement	1,857			(1)	—			(1)
	7,776				16,286				Total before tax
	2,722				5,700				Tax expense or benefit
	5,054				10,586				Net of tax
Total reclassification for the period	$	(31,449	)		$	(17,352	)		Net of tax
(1) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic (benefit) cost of employee benefit plans (see Note 17 for additional details).

General_Insurance_Expenses

General Insurance Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract]
General Insurance Expenses	General Insurance Expenses
	The following table summarizes the significant components of general insurance expenses:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Compensation	$	406,601	$	359,280	$	335,212
	Commissions	210,797		184,238		180,529
	Other	163,593		106,829		80,908
	Total general insurance expenses	$	780,991	$	650,347	$	596,649

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans
	Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans
	The Company has a noncontributory Defined Benefit Pension Plan covering substantially all of its employees that were hired before January 1, 1999.  Prior to December 31, 2012, the Company accounted for the Defined Benefit Pension Plan as the direct legal obligation of the Company and accounted for the corresponding plan obligations on its balance sheet and statements of income.  Effective December 31, 2012, the Company transferred the sponsorship of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan to GWL&A Financial, the Company’s immediate parent.  Despite the change in sponsorship of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan, the Company continues to account for the corresponding plan obligations on its balance sheet and statements of income.
	Benefits for the Defined Benefit Pension Plan are based principally on an employee’s years of service and compensation levels near retirement. The Company’s policy for funding the Defined Benefit Pension Plans is to make annual contributions, which equal or exceed regulatory requirements.
	The Company sponsors an unfunded Post-Retirement Medical Plan (the “Medical Plan”) that provides health benefits to retired employees who are not Medicare eligible. The Medical Plan is contributory and contains other cost sharing features which may be adjusted annually for the expected general inflation rate. The Company’s policy is to fund the cost of the Medical Plan benefits in amounts determined at the discretion of management.
	The Company also provides Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans to certain key executives. These plans provide key executives with certain benefits upon retirement, disability or death based upon total compensation. The Company has purchased individual life insurance policies with respect to employees covered by these plans. The Company is the owner and beneficiary of the insurance contracts.
	A December 31 measurement date is used for the employee benefit plans.
	The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the benefit obligations, fair value of plan assets and the underfunded status for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,							Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation, January 1	$	456,402			$	500,603		$	11,081		$	13,462		$	62,305		$	69,229		$	529,788		$	583,294
	Service cost	4,952				5,527			985			947			586			1,002			6,523			7,476
	Interest cost	23,068				20,897			574			512			2,528			2,548			26,170			23,957
	Actuarial (gain) loss	113,410				(57,051		)	(2,092		)	(3,221		)	3,376			(6,791		)	114,694			(67,063		)
	Regular benefits paid	(14,752		)		(13,574		)	(508		)	(619		)	(16,874		)	(3,683		)	(32,134		)	(17,876		)
	Amendment	—				—			(569		)	—			3,911			—			3,342			—
	Acquisition	—				—			3,311			—			—			—			3,311			—
	Benefit obligation, December 31	$	583,080			$	456,402		$	12,782		$	11,081		$	55,832		$	62,305		$	651,694		$	529,788
	Accumulated benefit obligation	$	562,760			$	440,666		$	12,782		$	11,081		$	50,032		$	54,195		$	625,574		$	505,942
	On August 29, 2014, the Company completed the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition. Per the terms of the Purchase and Sale Agreement, the Company was required to give each RPS employee full credit for the employee’s service period with RPS prior to the closing date, for the purpose of eligibility to participate, vesting and level of benefits under the Post-Retirement Medical Plan. As a result, approximately 1,000 individuals became eligible participants of the Post-Retirement Medical Plan at the acquisition date. The acquisition resulted in a $3,311 increase before tax to other liabilities with an offsetting increase to goodwill.
	During 2014, one participant in the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan received an enhancement to his benefit. The enhancement resulted in a $3,911 increase before tax to other liabilities with an offsetting increase to accumulated other comprehensive income.
	During 2014, the Post-Retirement Medical Plan was amended to allow only one medical plan option to retirees.
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,							Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Change in plan assets:
	Value of plan assets, January 1	$	404,335			$	336,534		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	404,335		$	336,534
	Actual return on plan assets	43,662				62,701			—			—			—			—			43,662			62,701
	Employer contributions	10,717				18,674			508			619			16,874			3,683			28,099			22,976
	Benefits paid	(14,752		)		(13,574		)	(508		)	(619		)	(16,874		)	(3,683		)	(32,134		)	(17,876		)
	Value of plan assets, December 31	$	443,962			$	404,335		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	443,962		$	404,335
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		December 31,							December 31,						December 31,						December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Under funded status at December 31	$	(139,118	)		$	(52,067	)	$	(12,782	)	$	(11,081	)	$	(55,832	)	$	(62,305	)	$	(207,732	)	$	(125,453	)
	The following table presents amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		December 31,							December 31,						December 31,						December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
	Other liabilities	$	(139,118	)		$	(52,067	)	$	(12,782	)	$	(11,081	)	$	(55,832	)	$	(62,305	)	$	(207,732	)	$	(125,453	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(165,652		)		(69,564		)	14,390			13,885			(11,990		)	(11,687		)	(163,252		)	(67,366		)
	The following table provides information regarding amounts in AOCI that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost at December 31, 2014:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Gross				Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax
	Net gain (loss)	$	(165,639	)		$	(107,665	)	$	10,686		$	6,946		$	(8,856	)	$	(5,756	)	$	(163,809	)	$	(106,475	)
	Net prior service (cost) credit	(13		)		(8		)	3,704			2,408			(3,134		)	(2,037		)	557			363
		$	(165,652	)		$	(107,673	)	$	14,390		$	9,354		$	(11,990	)	$	(7,793	)	$	(163,252	)	$	(106,112	)
	The following table provides information regarding amounts in AOCI that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the year ended December 31, 2015:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Gross				Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax
	Net gain (loss)	$	(12,023	)		$	(7,815	)	$	606		$	394		$	(663	)	$	(431	)	$	(12,080	)	$	(7,852	)
	Prior service (cost) credit	(13		)		(8		)	1,669			1,085			(933		)	(606		)	723			471
		$	(12,036	)		$	(7,823	)	$	2,275		$	1,479		$	(1,596	)	$	(1,037	)	$	(11,357	)	$	(7,381	)
	The expected benefit payments for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans for the years indicated are as follows:
		Defined Benefit				Post-Retirement			Supplemental
Pension Plan			Medical Plan			Executive
						Retirement Plan
2015	$	15,670			$	606		$	4,874
2016	17,102				547			3,322
2017	18,192				556			3,306
2018	19,891				569			2,834
2019	21,285				625			2,518
2020 through 2024	135,763				4,171			15,883
Net periodic (benefit) cost of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans included in general insurance expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income includes the following components:
	Defined Benefit Pension Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013			2012
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	$	4,952			$	5,527		$	4,350
Interest cost	23,068				20,897			20,945
Expected return on plan assets	(29,288		)		(24,499		)	(21,797		)
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	51				51			51
Amortization of loss from earlier periods	2,898				16,001			9,941
Net periodic cost	$	1,681			$	17,977		$	13,490
	Post-Retirement Medical Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013			2012
Components of net periodic benefit:
Service cost	$	985			$	947		$	817
Interest cost	574				512			569
Amortization of unrecognized prior service benefit	(1,706		)		(1,650		)	(1,650		)
Amortization of gain from earlier periods	(450		)		(348		)	(455		)
Net periodic benefit	$	(597	)		$	(539	)	$	(719	)
	Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013			2012
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	$	586			$	1,002		$	991
Interest cost	2,528				2,548			2,912
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	4,844				933			934
Amortization of loss from earlier periods	282				1,299			637
Settlement	1,857				—			—
Net periodic cost	$	10,097			$	5,782		$	5,474
On August 1, 2014, the Company made a lump-sum benefit payment from the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan. The lump-sum distribution resulted in the settlement of 21% of the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan’s projected benefit obligation and exceeded the total of the projected service cost and interest cost for the plan year. In connection with this settlement during the third quarter of 2014, the Company reclassified a $1,857 loss before tax to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income. The lump-sum benefit payment also resulted in the recognition of $3,911 of prior service costs within earnings from accumulated other comprehensive income.
The following tables present the assumptions used in determining benefit obligations of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
	Defined Benefit Pension Plan
	December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	4.17	%		5.11	%
Rate of compensation increase	4.47	%		4.47	%
	Post-Retirement Medical Plan
	December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	3.94	%		4.83	%
Initial health care cost trend	6.5	%		7	%
Ultimate health care cost trend	5	%		5	%
Year ultimate trend is reached	2018			2018
	Supplemental Executive
	Retirement Plan
	December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	3.99	%		4.61	%
Rate of compensation increase	4	%		4	%
During 2014, the Company adopted the Society of Actuaries 2014 Mortality Tables Report (RP-2014) and Mortality Improvement Scale (MP-2014), which adjusted the mortality assumptions used to measure retirement plan obligations. The updated mortality assumptions reflect increasing life expectancies in the United States, reflecting an increase to the Company’s benefit obligations of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans. Future expenses of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans are also expected to increase due to the new mortality assumptions.
The following tables present the assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
	Defined Benefit Pension Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	5.11	%		4.19	%
Expected return on plan assets	7.25	%		7.25	%
Rate of compensation increase	4.47	%		3.14	%
	Post-Retirement Medical Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	4.83	%		3.74	%
Initial health care cost trend	7	%		7.5	%
Ultimate health care cost trend	5	%		5.25	%
Year ultimate trend is reached	2018			2018
	Supplemental Executive
	Retirement Plan
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013
Discount rate	4.61	%		3.79	%
Rate of compensation increase	4	%		4	%
The discount rate has been set based on the rates of return on high-quality fixed-income investments currently available and expected to be available during the period the benefits will be paid. In particular, the yields on bonds rated AA or better on the measurement date have been used to set the discount rate.
The following table presents the impact on the Post-Retirement Medical Plan that a one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have on the following:
	One percentage				One percentage
	point increase				point decrease
Increase (decrease) on total service and interest cost on components	$	254			$	(212	)
Increase (decrease) on post-retirement benefit obligation	1,722				(1,467		)
The following table presents how the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension Plan assets are invested:
	December 31,
	2014			2013
Equity securities	65	%		63	%
Debt securities	33	%		34	%
Other	2	%		3	%
Total	100	%		100	%
The following tables present information about the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair value:
	Defined benefit plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	31-Dec-14
	Quoted prices				Significant			Significant			Total
	in active markets				other observable			unobservable
	for identical assets				inputs			inputs
	(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
Common collective trust funds:
Equity index funds	$	—			$	93,415		$	—		$	93,415
Midcap index funds	—				90,159			—			90,159
World equity index funds	—				8,759			—			8,759
U.S. equity market funds	—				93,911			—			93,911
Total common collective trust funds	—				286,244			—			286,244
Fixed maturity investments:
U.S. government direct obligations and agencies	—				9,308			—			9,308
Obligations of U.S. states and their municipalities	—				18,838			—			18,838
Corporate debt securities	—				107,125			—			107,125
Asset-backed securities	—				8,444			—			8,444
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—				3,048			—			3,048
Total fixed maturity investments	—				146,763			—			146,763
Preferred stock	310				—			—			310
Limited partnership investments	—				—			8,114			8,114
Money market funds	2,531				—			—			2,531
Total defined benefit plan assets	$	2,841			$	433,007		$	8,114		$	443,962
	Defined benefit plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
	31-Dec-13
	Quoted prices				Significant			Significant			Total
	in active markets				other observable			unobservable
	for identical assets				inputs			inputs
	(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
Common collective trust funds:
Equity index funds	$	—			$	82,440		$	—		$	82,440
Midcap index funds	—				82,674			—			82,674
World equity index funds	—				8,186			—			8,186
U.S. equity market funds	—				83,209			—			83,209
Total common collective trust funds	—				256,509			—			256,509
Fixed maturity investments:
U.S. government direct obligations and agencies	—				19,088			—			19,088
Obligations of U.S. states and their municipalities	—				14,973			—			14,973
Corporate debt securities	—				91,860			—			91,860
Asset-backed securities	—				7,902			—			7,902
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—				2,647			—			2,647
Total fixed maturity investments	—				136,470			—			136,470
Preferred stock	700				—			—			700
Limited partnership investments	—				—			7,557			7,557
Money market funds	3,099				—			—			3,099
Total defined benefit plan assets	$	3,799			$	392,979		$	7,557		$	404,335
The following tables present additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:
	Fair value measurements using
	significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
	limited partnership interest
	Year Ended December 31,
	2014				2013
Balance, January 1	$	7,557			$	6,485
Actual return on plan assets	510				853
Purchases	656				630
Issuances	(609		)		(411		)
Balance, December 31	$	8,114			$	7,557
The investment objective of the Defined Benefit Pension Plan is to provide a risk-adjusted return that will ensure the payment of benefits while protecting against the risk of substantial investment losses.  Correlations among the asset classes are used to identify an asset mix that the Company believes will provide the most attractive returns.  Long-term return forecasts for each asset class using historical data and other qualitative considerations to adjust for projected economic forecasts are used to set the expected rate of return for the entire portfolio.
The Defined Benefit Pension Plan utilizes various investment securities. Generally, investment securities are exposed to various risks, such as interest rate risks, credit risk and overall market volatility. Due to the level of risk associated with certain investment securities, it is reasonably possible that changes in the values of investment securities will occur and that such changes could materially affect the amounts reported.
The following table presents the ranges the Company targets for the allocation of invested Defined Benefit Pension Plan assets at December 31, 2015:
	31-Dec-15
Equity securities	30	%
Debt securities	52	%
Other	18	%
Total	100	%
Management estimates the value of these investments will be recoverable.  The Company does not expect any plan assets to be returned to it during the year ended December 31, 2015.  The Company expects to make payments of approximately $606 with respect to its Post-Retirement Medical Plan and $4,874 with respect to its Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan during the year ended December 31, 2015.
Other employee benefit plans
The Company has an executive deferred compensation plan providing key executives with the opportunity to participate in an unfunded deferred compensation program.  Under the program, participants may defer base compensation and bonuses and earn interest on the amounts deferred.  The program is not qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Participant balances, which are reflected in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are $10,051 and $11,240 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The participant deferrals earned interest at the average rates of 6.53% during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.  The interest rate is based on the Moody’s Average Annual Corporate Bond Index rate plus 0.45% for actively employed participants and fixed rates ranging from 4.67% to 5.37% for retired participants.
The Company offers an unfunded, non-qualified deferred compensation plan to a select group of management and highly compensated individuals.  Participants defer a portion of their compensation and realize potential market gains or losses on the invested contributions.  The program is not qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Participant balances, which are included in other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are $16,633 and $14,536 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
The Company sponsors a qualified defined contribution benefit plan covering all employees. Under this plan, employees may contribute a percentage of their annual compensation to the plan up to certain maximums, as defined by the plan and by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”). Currently, the Company matches a percentage of employee contributions in cash. The Company recognized $8,479, $6,693 and $6,288 in expense related to this plan for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes is comprised of the following:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Current	$	80,859			$	82,878			$	89,934
	Deferred	75,044				(24,087		)		45,371
	Total income tax provision	$	155,903			$	58,791			$	135,305
	The following table presents a reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the Company’s effective federal income tax rate:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Statutory federal income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Income tax effect of:
	Investment income not subject to federal tax	(1.8	)%		(4.6	)%		(2.3	)%
	Tax credits	(0.3	)%		(2.0	)%		(1.3	)%
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1	%		3.3	%		1.2	%
	Income tax contingency provisions	(1.2	)%		(0.4	)%		—	%
	Other, net	0.2	%		—	%		3.6	%
	Effective federal income tax rate	32.9	%		31.3	%		36.2	%
	A reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Balance, beginning of year	$	21,154			$	25,850			$	32,123
	Additions to tax positions in the current year	13,931				—				6,230
	Additions to tax positions in the prior year	—				1,497				420
	Reductions to tax positions in the prior year	—				(180		)		(10,219		)
	Reductions to tax positions from statutes expiring	(8,195		)		(6,013		)		(2,704		)
	Balance, end of year	$	26,890			$	21,154			$	25,850
	Included in the unrecognized tax benefits of $26,890 at December 31, 2014 was $545 of tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the annual effective tax rate. The Company anticipates additional increases in its unrecognized tax benefits of $6,000 to $7,000 in the next twelve months, primarily due to changes in the composition of the consolidated group.
	The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in current income tax expense.  The Company recognized approximately $(2,916), $(286) and $208 in interest and penalties related to the uncertain tax positions during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The Company had approximately $1,210 and $4,126 accrued for the payment of interest and penalties at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various states. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations by tax authorities for years 2010 and prior.  Tax years 2011 through 2013 are open to federal examination by the I.R.S.  The Company does not expect significant increases or decreases to unrecognized tax benefits relating to federal, state or local audits.
	Deferred income taxes represent the tax effect of the differences between the book and tax bases of assets and liabilities.  The tax effect of temporary differences, which give rise to the deferred tax assets and liabilities, is as follows:
		December 31,
		2014								2013
		Deferred				Deferred				Deferred			Deferred
		tax asset				tax liability				tax asset			tax liability
	Policyholder reserves	$	—			$	255,926			$	—		$	253,738
	Deferred acquisition costs	2,467				—				1,008			—
	Investment assets	—				426,477				—			203,363
	Policyholder dividends	10,002				—				11,479			—
	Net operating loss carryforward	122,177				—				172,414			—
	Pension plan accrued benefit liability	84,351				—				53,937			—
	Goodwill	—				26,022				—			25,563
	Experience rated refunds	13,431				—				5,509			—
	Tax credits	149,516				—				131,052			—
	Other	11,865				—				416			—
	Total deferred taxes	$	393,809			$	708,425			$	375,815		$	482,664
	The deferred tax liability amounts presented for investment assets above include $381,838 and $209,434 related to the net unrealized losses (gains) on the Company’s investments, which are classified as available-for-sale at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The Company, together with certain of its subsidiaries, and Lifeco U.S. have entered into an income tax allocation agreement whereby Lifeco U.S. files a consolidated federal income tax return.  Under the agreement, these companies are responsible for and will receive the benefits of any income tax liability or benefit computed on a separate tax return basis.
	The Company has federal net operating loss carry forwards generated by a subsidiary that is included in the Lifeco U.S. consolidated federal income tax return.  As of December 31, 2014, the subsidiary had net operating loss carry forwards expiring as follows:
	Year	Amount
	2021	$	51,677
	2022	136,796
	2023	81,693
	2028	3,390
	Total	$	273,556
	During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company generated $15,506, $25,013 and $30,965 of Guaranteed Federal Low Income Housing tax credit carryforwards, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014, the total credit carryforward for Low Income Housing is $140,055.  These credits will begin to expire in 2030.
	Included in due from parent and affiliates at December 31, 2014 and 2013 is $13,400 and $65,186, respectively, of income taxes receivable primarily from Lifeco U.S. related to the consolidated income tax return filed by the Company and certain subsidiaries.
	Included in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 is $7,176 and $7,736, respectively, of income taxes receivable in other assets primarily related to the separate state income tax returns filed by certain subsidiaries.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information
	The Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”) of the Company is also the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of Lifeco U.S. The CODM reviews the financial information for the purposes of assessing performance and allocating resources based upon the results of Lifeco U.S. prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. The CODM, in his capacity as CEO of the Company, reviews the Company’s financial information only in connection with the quarterly and annual reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Consequently, the Company does not provide its discrete financial information to the CODM to be regularly reviewed to make decisions about resources to be allocated or to assess performance. For purposes of SEC reporting requirements, the Company has chosen to present its financial information in three segments, notwithstanding the above. The three segments are: Individual Markets, Retirement Services and Other.
	Individual Markets
	The Individual Markets reporting and operating segment distributes life insurance and individual annuity products to both individuals and businesses through various distribution channels.  Life insurance products in-force include participating and non-participating term life, whole life, universal life and variable universal life.
	Retirement Services
	The Retirement Services reporting and operating segment provides various retirement plan products and investment options as well as comprehensive administrative and record-keeping services for financial institutions and employers, which include educational, advisory, enrollment and communication services for employer-sponsored defined contribution plans and associated defined benefit plans.
	Other
	The Company’s Other reporting segment is substantially comprised of activity under the assumption of reinsurance between GWSC and CLAC (“the GWSC operating segment”), corporate items not directly allocated to the other operating segments and interest expense on long-term debt.
	The accounting principles used to determine segment results are the same as those used in the consolidated financial statements.  The Company evaluates performance of its reportable segments based on their profitability from operations after income taxes.  Inter-segment transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.  The Company’s operations are not materially dependent on one or a few customers, brokers or agents.
	The following tables summarize segment financial information:
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Revenue:
	Premium income	$	360,305	$	1,215		$	84,875		$	446,395
	Fee income	95,631		629,533			4,015			729,179
	Other revenue	—		7,506			—			7,506
	Net investment income	748,015		426,340			54,033			1,228,388
	Realized investments gains (losses), net	44,381		102,597			393			147,371
	Total revenues	1,248,332		1,167,191			143,316			2,558,839
	Benefits and expenses:
	Policyholder benefits	902,982		206,339			113,124			1,222,445
	Operating expenses	136,850		647,165			79,107			863,122
	Total benefits and expenses	1,039,832		853,504			192,231			2,085,567
	Income (loss) before income taxes	208,500		313,687			(48,915		)	473,272
	Income tax expense (benefit)	68,719		104,162			(16,978		)	155,903
	Net income (loss)	$	139,781	$	209,525		$	(31,937	)	$	317,369
		31-Dec-14
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Assets:
	Investments	$	15,928,591	$	10,621,831		$	1,772,821		$	28,323,243
	Other assets	1,283,256		855,728			142,824			2,281,808
	Separate account assets	7,247,463		20,471,381			—			27,718,844
	Assets of continuing operations	$	24,459,310	$	31,948,940		$	1,915,645		58,323,895
	Assets of discontinued operations									24,324
	Total assets									$	58,348,219
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Revenue:
	Premium income	$	354,202	$	3,954		$	105,937		$	464,093
	Fee income	94,037		519,842			4,365			618,244
	Other revenue	7,355		—			—			7,355
	Net investment income	688,279		351,729			51,381			1,091,389
	Realized investments gains (losses), net	19,071		(33,233		)	26			(14,136		)
	Total revenues	1,162,944		842,292			161,709			2,166,945
	Benefits and expenses:
	Policyholder benefits	921,096		196,115			114,880			1,232,091
	Operating expenses	142,141		538,209			66,971			747,321
	Total benefits and expenses	1,063,237		734,324			181,851			1,979,412
	Income (loss) before income taxes	99,707		107,968			(20,142		)	187,533
	Income tax expense (benefit)	34,265		33,240			(8,714		)	58,791
	Net income (loss)	$	65,442	$	74,728		$	(11,428	)	$	128,742
		31-Dec-13
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Assets:
	Investments	$	14,563,978	$	10,370,421		$	1,582,024		$	26,516,423
	Other assets	1,179,332		839,755			128,106			2,147,193
	Separate account assets	6,321,135		20,309,769			—			26,630,904
	Assets of continuing operations	$	22,064,445	$	31,519,945		$	1,710,130		55,294,520
	Assets of discontinued operations									29,007
	Total assets									$	55,323,527
	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Individual		Retirement
	Markets		Services			Other			Total
Revenue:
Premium income	$	314,350	$	3,670		$	104,133		$	422,153
Fee income	74,985		456,052			4,786			535,823
Net investment income	729,885		414,114			47,552			1,191,551
Realized investments gains (losses), net	55,959		60,726			32			116,717
Total revenues	1,175,179		934,562			156,503			2,266,244
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	882,726		204,296			111,288			1,198,310
Operating expenses	136,895		492,427			65,193			694,515
Total benefits and expenses	1,019,621		696,723			176,481			1,892,825
Income (loss) before income taxes	155,558		237,839			(19,978		)	373,419
Income tax expense	50,869		78,150			6,286			135,305
Net income (loss)	$	104,689	$	159,689		$	(26,264	)	$	238,114

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation
	Equity Awards
	Lifeco, of which the Company is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, maintains the Great-West Lifeco Inc. Stock Option Plan (the “Lifeco plan”) that provides for the granting of options on its common shares to certain of its officers and employees and those of its subsidiaries, including the Company.  Options are granted with exercise prices not less than the average market price of the shares on the five days preceding the date of the grant.  The Lifeco plan provides for the granting of options with varying terms and vesting requirements with vesting commencing on the first anniversary of the grant, exercisable within 10 years from the date of grant.
	Termination of employment prior to the vesting of the options results in the forfeiture of the unvested options, unless otherwise determined by Lifeco’s Compensation Committee. At its discretion the Compensation Committee may vest the unvested options of retiring option holders, with the options exercisable within five years from the date of retirement. In such event, the Company accelerates the recognition period to the date of retirement for any unrecognized share-based compensation cost related thereto and recognizes it in its earnings at that time.
	Liability Awards
	The Company maintains a Performance Share Unit Plan (“PSU plan”) for senior executives of the Company.  Under the PSU plan, “performance share units” are granted to certain senior executives of the Company. Each performance unit has a value equal to one share of Lifeco common stock and is subject to adjustment for cash dividends paid to Lifeco stockholders, Company earnings results as well as stock dividends and splits, consolidations and the like that affect shares of Lifeco common stock outstanding.
	If the performance share units vest, they are payable in cash equal to the average closing price of Lifeco common stock for the 20 trading days prior to the date following the last day of the three-year performance period.  The estimated fair value of the performance unit is based on the average closing price of Lifeco common stock for the twenty trading days prior to the grant. The performance share units generally vest in their entirety at the end of the three years performance period based on continued service.  The PSU plan contains a provision that permits all unvested performance share units to become vested upon death or retirement.
	Performance share units are settled in cash and are recorded as liabilities until payout is made.  Unlike share-settled awards, which have a fixed grant-date fair value, the fair value of unsettled or unvested liabilities awards is remeasured at the end of each reporting period based on the change in fair value of one share of Lifeco common stock.  The liability and corresponding expense are adjusted accordingly until the award is settled.
	Compensation Expense Related to Stock-Based Compensation
	The compensation expense related to stock-based compensation was as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013				2012
	Lifeco Stock Plan	$	3,384		$	2,579			$	2,314
	Performance Share Unit Plan	6,263			6,860				3,658
	Total compensation expense	$	9,647		$	9,439			$	5,972
	Income tax benefits	$	2,404		$	2,732			$	1,729
	The following table presents the total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock-based compensation at December 31, 2014 and the expected weighted average period over which these expenses will be recognized:
		Expense			Weighted
					average
					period
					(years)
	Lifeco Stock Plan	$	2,381		1.7
	Performance Share Unit Plan	3,182			1.3
	Equity Award Activity
	During the year ended December 31, 2014, Lifeco granted 539,400 stock options to employees of the Company.  These stock options vest over five-year periods ending in 2019.  Compensation expense of $2,984 will be recognized in the Company’s financial statements over the vesting period of these stock options using the accelerated method of recognition.
	The following table summarizes the status of, and changes in, the Lifeco plan options granted to Company employees which are outstanding.  The options granted relate to underlying stock traded in Canadian dollars on the Toronto Stock Exchange; therefore, the amounts, which are presented in United States dollars, will fluctuate as a result of exchange rate fluctuations.
				Weighted average
		Shares		Exercise price				Remaining		Intrinsic
		under option		(Whole dollars)				contractual		value (1)
								term (Years)
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014	3,378,220		$	26.49
	Granted	539,400		26.86
	Exercised	(83,562	)	22.85
	Cancelled and expired	(40,400	)	23.82
	Outstanding, December 31, 2014	3,793,658		24.69				5.8		$	17,409
	Vested and expected to vest,	3,793,658		$	24.69			5.8		$	17,409
	31-Dec-14
	Exercisable, December 31, 2014	2,533,642		$	25.14			4.8		$	10,877
	(1) The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on December 31, 2014 and the exercise price of the option (only if the result is positive) multiplied by the number of options.
	The following table presents additional information regarding stock options under the Lifeco plan:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013				2012
	Weighted average fair value of options granted	$	5.53		$	4.56			$	3.47
	Intrinsic value of options exercised (1)	401			1,437				1,397
	Fair value of options vested	4,491			1,843				1,740
	(1) The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the option multiplied by the number of options exercised.
	The fair value of the options granted during was estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
	Dividend yield	3.95	%	4.53	%		5.31	%
	Expected volatility	26.63	%	26.73	%		25.65	%
	Risk free interest rate	1.75	%	1.38	%		1.52	%
	Expected duration (years)	6		6			6
	Liability Award Activity
	The following table summarizes the status of, and changes in, the Performance Share Unit Plan units granted to Company employees which are outstanding:
		Performance
		Units
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014	555,438
	Granted	160,021
	Forfeited	(4,774	)
	Exercised	(189,390	)
	Outstanding, December 31, 2014	521,295
	Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2014	521,295
	The cash payment in settlement of the Performance Share Unit Plan units was $5,914 for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies
	Commitments
	The following table summarizes the Company’s future purchase obligations and commitments:
		Payment due by period
		Less than		One to		Three to		More than		Total
		one year		three years		five years		five years
	Related party long-term debt - principal (1)	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	528,400	$	528,400
	Related party long-term debt - interest (2)	37,031		74,062		74,062		827,007		1,012,162
	Investment purchase obligations (3)	166,356		—		—		—		166,356
	Operating leases (4)	10,699		14,303		11,668		8,074		44,744
	Other liabilities (5)	36,358		32,860		33,346		42,054		144,618
	Total	$	250,444	$	121,225	$	119,076	$	1,405,535	$	1,896,280
	(1) Related party long-term debt principal - Represents contractual maturities of principal due to the Company’s parent, GWL&A Financial, under the terms of two long-term surplus notes.  The amounts shown in this table differ from the amounts included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet because the amounts shown above do not consider the discount upon the issuance of one of the surplus notes.
	(2) Related party long-term debt interest - One long-term surplus note bears interest at a fixed rate through maturity.  The second surplus note bears interest initially at a fixed rate that will change in the future based upon the then current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate.  The interest payments shown in this table are calculated based upon the contractual rates in effect on December 31, 2014 and do not consider the impact of future interest rate changes.
	(3)  Investment purchase obligations - The Company makes commitments to fund partnership interests, mortgage loans on real estate and other investments in the normal course of its business.  As the timing of the fulfillment of the commitment to fund partnership interests cannot be predicted, such obligations are presented in the less than one year category.  The timing of the funding of mortgage loans on real estate is based on the expiration date of the commitment. The amounts of these unfunded commitments at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $166,356 and $196,933, of which $4,997 and $7,498 was related to cost basis limited partnership interests, respectively, all of which is due within one year from the dates indicated.
	(4)  Operating leases - The Company is obligated to make payments under various non-cancelable operating leases, primarily for office space. Contractual provisions exist that could increase the lease obligations presented, including operating expense escalation clauses. Management does not consider the impact of any such clauses to be material to the Company’s operating lease obligations. The Company incurred rent expense, net of sublease income, of $7,628, $5,439 and $5,764 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively and is recorded in general insurance expense. The Company’s total future operating lease obligation will be reduced by minimum reimbursement of $9,953 due in the future under non-cancelable agreements.
	From time to time, the Company enters into agreements or contracts, including capital leases, to purchase goods or services in the normal course of its business.  However, these agreements and contracts are not material and are excluded from the table above.
	(5)   Other liabilities - Other liabilities include those other liabilities which represent contractual obligations not included elsewhere in the table above.  If the timing of the payment of any other liabilities was sufficiently uncertain, the amounts were included in the less than one year category.  Other liabilities presented in the table above include:
	·                  Expected contributions to the Company’s defined benefit pension plan and benefit payments for the Post-Retirement Medical Plan and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan through 2021.
	·                  Miscellaneous purchase obligations to acquire goods and services.
	·                  Unrecognized tax benefits
	The Company has a revolving credit facility agreement in the amount of $50,000 for general corporate purposes.  The credit facility expires on March 1, 2018.  Interest accrues at a rate dependent on various conditions and terms of borrowings.  The agreement requires, among other things, the Company to maintain a minimum adjusted net worth, of $1,100,000, as defined in the credit facility agreement (both compiled on the unconsolidated statutory accounting basis prescribed by the NAIC), for each quarter ending after December 31, 2013.  The Company was in compliance with all covenants at December 31, 2014 and 2013. At December 31, 2014 and 2013 there were no outstanding amounts related to the current and prior credit facilities.
	GWSC and CLAC are parties to a reinsurance agreement pursuant to which GWSC assumes term life insurance from CLAC.  GWL&A Financial obtained two letters of credit for the benefit of the Company as collateral under the GWSC and CLAC reinsurance agreement for policy liabilities and capital support.  The first letter of credit is for $1,168,800 and renews annually until it expires on July 3, 2027.  The second letter of credit is for $70,000 and renews annually until it expires on December 31, 2017.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding amounts related to the letters of credit. See Note 4 for additional discussion regarding these letters of credit.
	In addition, the Company has other letters of credit with a total amount of $8,975, renewable annually for an indefinite period of time. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding amounts related to those letters of credit.
	Contingencies
	From time to time, the Company may be threatened with, or named as a defendant in, lawsuits, arbitrations, and administrative claims. Any such claims that are decided against the Company could harm the Company’s business. The Company is also subject to periodic regulatory audits and inspections which could result in fines or other disciplinary actions. Unfavorable outcomes in such matters may result in a material impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	The Company is currently evaluating the interpretation of Internal Revenue Code rules related to certain product investments. If the Company’s interpretation is not upheld, which is reasonably possible, the potential exposure is estimated to be up to $19,000.
	During the fourth quarter, the Company received a $20,000 demand letter related to a vehicle accident involving an employee.  The amount is fully indemnified by a third-party insurer.

Subsequent_Event

Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event	Subsequent Events
	On January 1, 2015, the Company acquired the retirement business of Putnam. The Putnam retirement business comprises approximately 433 plans with 230,000 participants and $17,545,000 in assets under administration. The transaction will be accounted for as a combination between entities under common control.
	On February 5, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors declared dividends of $76,801, payable on March 16, 2015, to its sole shareholder, GWL&A Financial.

Schedule_III_Supplemental_Insu

Schedule III Supplemental Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Schedule III Supplemental Insurance Information	Schedule III
	Supplemental Insurance Information
	(In Thousands)
		As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Individual		Retirement		Other		Total
		Markets		Services		Segment
		Segment		Segment
	Deferred acquisition costs	$	284,174	$	69,234	$	—	$	353,408
	Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	14,980,872		10,533,822		409,880		25,924,574
	Unearned premium reserves	43,837		—		—		43,837
	Other policy claims and benefits payable	726,479		581		26,155		753,215
	Premium income	360,305		1,215		84,875		446,395
	Net investment income	748,015		426,340		54,033		1,228,388
	Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	902,982		206,339		113,124		1,222,445
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	13,700		27,345		—		41,045
	Other operating expenses	123,150		619,820		79,107		822,077
		As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Individual		Retirement		Other		Total
		Markets		Services		Segment
		Segment		Segment
	Deferred acquisition costs	$	238,150	$	75,921	$	—	$	314,071
	Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	13,945,756		10,229,678		390,784		24,566,218
	Unearned premium reserves	42,937		—		—		42,937
	Other policy claims and benefits payable	740,056		499		23,968		764,523
	Premium income	354,202		3,954		105,937		464,093
	Net investment income	688,279		351,729		51,381		1,091,389
	Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	921,096		196,115		114,880		1,232,091
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	34,650		20,840		—		55,490
	Other operating expenses	107,491		517,369		66,971		691,831
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Individual		Retirement		Other		Total
		Markets		Services		Segment
		Segment		Segment
	Premium income	$	314,350	$	3,670	$	104,133	$	422,153
	Net investment income	729,885		414,114		47,552		1,191,551
	Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	882,726		204,296		111,288		1,198,310
	Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	28,926		22,508		—		51,434
	Other operating expenses	107,969		469,919		65,193		643,081

Organization_and_Significant_A1

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and the accounts of its subsidiaries over which it exercises control and are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates are required to account for items and matters such as, but not limited to, the valuation of investments and derivatives in the absence of quoted market values, impairment of investments, accounting for derivative financial instruments, valuation of DAC, valuation of policy benefit liabilities, valuation of employee benefits plan obligation and the valuation of deferred tax assets or liabilities, net, and valuation of contingent consideration.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Investments	Investments
	Investments are reported as follows:
	1.     The Company classifies the majority of its fixed maturity investments as available-for-sale which are recorded at fair value with the related net unrealized gain or loss, net of policyholder related amounts and deferred taxes, recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”). Included in fixed maturities are perpetual debt investments which primarily consist of junior subordinated debt instruments that have no stated maturity date but pay fixed or floating interest in perpetuity. Also included in AOCI is net unrealized gain or loss resulting from foreign currency translations of fixed maturity investments denominated in foreign currencies.
	Premiums and discounts are recognized as a component of net investment income using the effective interest method, realized gains and losses are included in net realized investment gains (losses) and declines in value determined to be other-than-temporary are included in total other-than-temporary losses.
	The Company also classifies certain fixed maturity investments as held for trading. Assets in the held for trading category are carried at fair value with changes in fair value reported in net investment income.
	The recognition of income on certain investments (e.g. loan-backed securities, including mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities) is dependent upon market conditions, which may result in prepayments and changes in amounts to be earned. Prepayments on all mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are monitored monthly and amortization of the premium and/or the accretion of the discount associated with the purchase of such securities are adjusted by such prepayments.
	The Company recognizes the acquisition of its public fixed maturity investments on a trade date basis.
	2.    Mortgage loans on real estate consist of domestic commercial collateralized loans and are carried at their unpaid principal balances adjusted for any unamortized premiums or discounts, origination fees and mortgage provision allowances. Interest income is accrued on the unpaid principal balance for all loans, except for loans on non-accrual status. Premiums, discounts and origination fees are amortized to net investment income using the effective interest method. Prepayment penalty fees are recognized in other realized investment gains upon receipt.
	The Company actively manages its mortgage loan portfolio by completing ongoing comprehensive analysis of factors such as debt service coverage ratios, loan-to-value ratios, payment status, default or legal status, annual collateral property evaluations and general market conditions.  On a quarterly basis, the Company reviews the above primary credit quality indicators in its internal risk assessment of loan impairment and credit loss. Management’s risk assessment process is subjective and includes the categorization of all loans, based on the above mentioned credit quality indicators, into one of the following categories:
	•	Performing - generally indicates the loan has standard market risk and is within its original underwriting guidelines.
	•	Non-performing - generally indicates there is a potential for loss due to the deterioration of financial/monetary default indicators or potential foreclosure. Due to the potential for loss, these loans are evaluated for impairment.
	The adequacy of the Company’s mortgage provision allowance is reviewed quarterly. The determination of the calculation and the adequacy of the mortgage provision allowance and mortgage impairments involve judgments that incorporate qualitative and quantitative Company and industry mortgage performance data. Management’s periodic evaluation and assessment of the adequacy of the mortgage provision allowance and the need for mortgage impairments is based on known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, the fair value of the underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions, loss experience and other relevant factors. Loans included in the non-performing category and other loans with certain substandard credit quality indicators are individually reviewed to determine if a specific impairment is required. Risk is mitigated through first position collateralization, guarantees, loan covenants and borrower reporting requirements. Since the Company does not originate or hold uncollateralized mortgages, loans are generally not deemed fully uncollectable. Generally, unrecoverable amounts are written off during the final stage of the foreclosure process.
	Loan balances are considered past due when payment has not been received based on contractually agreed upon terms. The accrual of interest is discontinued when concerns exist regarding the realization of loan principal or interest. The Company resumes interest accrual on loans when a loan returns to current status or under new terms when loans are restructured or modified.
	On a quarterly basis, any loans with terms that were modified during that period are reviewed to determine if the loan modifications constitute a troubled debt restructuring (“TDR”).  In evaluating whether a loan modification constitutes a TDR, it must be determined that the modification is a significant concession and the debtor is experiencing financial difficulties.
	3.	Limited partnership and other corporation interests are accounted for using either the cost or equity method of accounting. The Company uses the cost method on investments where it has a minor equity interest and no significant influence over the entity’s operations. The Company uses the equity method when it has a partnership interest that is considered more than minor, although the Company has no significant influence over the entity’s operations. Also included in limited partnership interests are limited partnerships established for the purpose of investing in low-income housing that qualify for federal and state tax credits. These interests are carried at amortized cost as determined using the effective yield method.
	In the normal course of its activities, the Company is involved with other entities that are considered variable interest entities (“VIE”). An entity would be determined to be a primary beneficiary, and thus consolidated when the entity has both (a) the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and (b) the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the VIE. When the Company becomes involved with a VIE and when the nature of the Company’s involvement with the entity changes, in order to determine if the Company is the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the entity, it evaluates:
	•	The structure and purpose of the entity;
	•	The risks and rewards created by and shared through the entity and;
	•	The entity’s participants’ ability to direct the activities, receive its benefits and absorb its losses.
	The Company performs ongoing qualitative analyses of its involvement with VIEs to determine if consolidation is required.
	4.    Policy loans are carried at their unpaid balances. Interest income on policy loans is recognized in net investment income at the contract interest rate when earned. Policy loans are fully collateralized by the cash surrender value of the associated insurance policy.
	5.    Short-term investments include securities purchased with investment intent and with initial maturities of one year or less and are generally carried at fair value which is approximated from amortized cost.
	6.    The Company participates in a securities lending program in which the Company lends fixed maturity securities that are held as part of its general account investment portfolio to third parties.  The Company does not enter into these types of transactions for liquidity purposes, but rather for yield enhancement on its investment portfolio.  The borrower can return and the Company can request the loaned securities at any time.  The Company maintains ownership of the securities at all times and is entitled to receive from the borrower any payments for interest received on such securities during the loan term.  Securities lending transactions are accounted for as secured borrowings.  The securities lending agent indemnifies the Company against borrower risk, meaning that the lending agent agrees contractually to replace securities not returned due to a borrower default.  The Company generally requires initial collateral in an amount greater than or equal to 102% of the fair value of domestic securities loaned and 105% of foreign securities loaned.  Such collateral is used to replace the securities loaned in event of default by the borrower. Acceptable collateral is generally defined as government securities, letters of credit and/or cash collateral.  Some cash collateral may be invested in short-term repurchase agreements which are also collateralized by U.S. Government or U.S. Government Agency securities. Non-cash collateral is not recognized as the Company does not have effective control.
	7.    The Company’s other-than-temporary impairments (“OTTI”) accounting policy requires that a decline in the value of a security below its cost or amortized cost basis be assessed to determine if the decline is other-than-temporary. The assessment of whether an OTTI has occurred on fixed maturity investments where management does not intend to sell the fixed maturity investment and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis, is based upon management’s case-by-case evaluation of the underlying reasons for the decline in fair value of each individual security. Management considers a wide range of factors, as described below, regarding the security issuer and uses its best judgment in evaluating the cause of the decline in its estimated fair value and in assessing the prospects for near-term recovery.
	Considerations used by the Company in the impairment evaluation process include, but are not limited to, the following:
	•	The extent to which estimated fair value is below cost;
	•	Whether the decline in fair value is attributable to specific adverse conditions affecting a particular instrument, its issuer, an industry or geographic area;
	•	The length of time for which the estimated fair value has been below cost;
	•	Downgrade of a fixed maturity investment by a credit rating agency;
	•	Deterioration of the financial condition of the issuer;
	•	The payment structure of the fixed maturity investment and the likelihood of the issuer being able to make payments in the future; and
	•	Whether dividends have been reduced or eliminated or scheduled interest payments have not been made.
	If either (a) management has the intent to sell a fixed maturity investment or (b) it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell a fixed maturity investment before its anticipated recovery, a charge is recorded in net realized investment losses equal to the difference between the fair value and cost or amortized cost basis of the security.  If management does not intend to sell the security and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the fixed maturity investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis, but the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected (discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the fixed maturity investment prior to impairment) is less than the amortized cost basis of the fixed maturity investment (referred to as the credit loss portion), an OTTI is considered to have occurred.  In this instance, total OTTI is bifurcated into two components: the amount related to the credit loss, which is recognized in current period earnings; and the amount attributed to other factors (referred to as the non-credit portion), which is recognized as a separate component in AOCI.  The expected cash flows utilized during the impairment evaluation process are determined using judgment and the best information available to the Company including default rates, credit ratings, collateral characteristics and current levels of subordination.  After the recognition of an OTTI, a fixed maturity investment is accounted for as if it had been purchased on the measurement date of the OTTI, with an amortized cost basis equal to the previous amortized cost basis less the OTTI recognized in earnings.  The difference between the new amortized cost basis and the future cash flows is accreted into net investment income.  The Company continues to estimate the present value of cash flows expected to be collected over the life of the security.
Fair Value	Fair Value
	Certain assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.  The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Company categorizes its assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis into a three-level hierarchy, based on the priority of the inputs to the respective valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The Company’s assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis have been categorized based upon the following fair value hierarchy:
	•	Level 1 inputs utilize observable, quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Financial assets and liabilities utilizing Level 1 inputs include certain money market funds.
	•	Level 2 inputs utilize other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, such as interest rates and yield curves that are observable at commonly quoted intervals. The fair values for some Level 2 securities are obtained from pricing services. The inputs used by the pricing services are reviewed at least quarterly or when the pricing vendor issues updates to its pricing methodology. For fixed maturity securities and separate account assets and liabilities, inputs include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, evaluated bids, offers and reference data including market research publications. Additional inputs utilized for assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 are:
	•	Asset-backed, residential mortgage-backed, commercial mortgage-backed securities and collateralized debt obligations - new issue data, monthly payment information, collateral performance and third party real estate analysis.
	•	U.S. states and their subdivisions - material event notices.
	•	Short-term investments - valued based on amortized cost due to their short term nature and high credit quality of the issuers.
	•	Derivative instruments - trading activity, swap curves, credit spreads, currency volatility, net present value of cash flows and news sources.
	•	Separate account assets and liabilities - various index data and news sources, amortized cost (which approximates fair value), trading activity, swap curves, credit spreads, recovery rates, restructuring, net present value of cash flows and quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
	•	Common collective trusts - the net asset value based on the underlying trust investments.
	•	Level 3 inputs are unobservable and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. In general, the prices of Level 3 securities are obtained from single broker quotes and internal pricing models. If the broker’s inputs are largely unobservable, the valuation is classified as a Level 3. Broker quotes are validated through an internal analyst review process, which includes validation through known market conditions and other relevant data, as noted below. Internal models are usually cash flow based utilizing characteristics of the underlying collateral of the security such as default rate and other relevant data. Inputs utilized for securities classified as Level 3 are as follows:
	•	Corporate debt securities - unadjusted single broker quotes which may be in an illiquid market or otherwise deemed unobservable.
	•	Asset-backed securities - internal models utilizing asset-backed securities index spreads.
	•	Separate account assets - single broker quotes which may be in an illiquid market or otherwise deemed unobservable or net asset value per share of the underlying investments.
	•	Defined benefit plan limited partnership investments - capital account or net asset value adjusted for other relevant information.
	In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. 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 asset or liability.
	Overall, transfers between levels are attributable to a change in the observability of inputs. Assets and liabilities are transferred to a lower level in the hierarchy when a significant input cannot be corroborated with market observable data. This may occur when market activity decreases and underlying inputs cannot be observed, current prices are not available, and/or when there are significant variances in quoted prices, thereby affecting transparency. Assets and liabilities are transferred to a higher level in the hierarchy when circumstances change such that a significant input can be corroborated with market observable data. This may be due to a significant increase in market activity including recent trades, a specific event, or one or more significant input(s) becoming observable. All transfers between levels are recognized at the beginning of the reporting period in which the transfer occurred.
	The policies and procedures utilized to review, account for and report on the value and level of the Company’s securities were determined and implemented by the Finance division. The Investments division is responsible for the processes related to security purchases and sales and provides valuation and leveling input to the Finance division when necessary. Both divisions within the Company have worked in conjunction to establish thorough pricing, review, approval, accounting and reporting policies and procedures around the securities valuation process.
	Internal pricing models may be used to value certain Level 3 securities. Internal model input assumptions may include: prepayment speeds, constant default rates and the Asset Backed Securities Index (“ABX Index”) spread adjusted by an internally calculated liquidity premium with the primary inputs being the constant default rate and the internally adjusted ABX Index spread. These models are recalibrated monthly by adjusting the inputs based on current public security market conditions and a monthly comparison to pricing vendor evaluations is performed and analyzed.
	In some instances, securities are priced using external broker quotes.  In most cases, when broker quotes are used as pricing inputs, more than one broker quote is obtained.  External broker quotes are reviewed internally by comparing the quotes to similar securities in the public market and/or to vendor pricing, if available.  Additionally, external broker quotes are compared to market reported trade activity to ascertain whether the price is reasonable, reflective of the current market prices and takes into account the characteristics of the Company’s securities.
Cash	Cash
	Cash includes only amounts in demand deposit accounts.
	Book overdrafts occur when checks have been issued by the Company, but have not been presented to the Company’s disbursement bank accounts for payment. These bank accounts allow the Company to delay funding of the issued checks until they are presented for payment. This delay in funding results in a temporary source of financing. The activity related to book overdrafts is included in the financing activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows.
Internal use software	Internal use software
	Purchased software costs, as well as certain internal and external costs incurred to develop internal use computer software during the application development stage, are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the software’s estimated useful life, ranging from five to seven years.
Deferred acquisition costs and value of business acquired	DAC and VOBA
	The Company incurs costs in connection with the acquisition of new and renewal insurance business. Costs that vary directly with and relate to the successful production of new business are deferred as DAC. These costs consist primarily of commissions, costs associated with the Company’s sales representatives and policy issuance and underwriting expenses related to the production of successfully acquired new business. A success factor is derived from actual contracts issued by the Company from requests for proposals or applications received and applied to the deferrable costs. The recoverability of such costs is dependent upon the future profitability of the related business. Recoverability testing is performed for current issue year products to determine if gross revenues are sufficient to cover DAC and expenses. At least annually, loss recognition testing is performed on aggregated blocks of business to adjust the DAC balance.
	VOBA represents the estimated fair value of insurance or annuity contracts acquired either directly through the acquisition of another insurance company or through the acquisition of insurance or annuity contracts through assumption reinsurance transactions.
	DAC and VOBA associated with the annuity products and flexible premium universal life insurance products are being amortized over the life of the contracts in proportion to the emergence of gross profits. Retrospective adjustments of these amounts are made when the Company revises its estimates of current or future gross profits on an annual basis. DAC and VOBA associated with traditional life insurance are amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies in proportion to premium revenues recognized. DAC and VOBA, for applicable products, are adjusted for the impact of unrealized gains or losses on investments as if these gains or losses had been realized, with corresponding credits or charges included in AOCI.
Goodwill and other intangible assets	Goodwill and other intangible assets
	Goodwill is the excess of cost over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with an acquisition. It is considered an indefinite lived asset and therefore is not amortized. The Company tests goodwill for impairment annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that there may be justification for conducting an interim test. If the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its fair value, the excess is recognized as an impairment and recorded as a charge against net income in the period in which the impairment is identified.
	Other intangible assets represent the estimated fair value of the portion of the purchase price that was allocated to the value of customer relationships and non-competition intangible asset in various acquisitions.  These intangible assets have been assigned values using various methodologies, including present value of projected future cash flows, analysis of similar transactions that have occurred or could be expected to occur in the market and replacement or reproduction cost.  The initial valuations of these intangible assets were supported by an independent valuation study commissioned by the Company.  Other identified intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives, which initially ranged from two to 18 years (weighted average 15 years), primarily based on the cash flows generated by these assets.
Separate accounts	Separate accounts
	Separate account assets and related liabilities are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  The Company issues variable annuity contracts and variable universal life contracts through separate accounts for which investment income and investment gains and losses accrue directly to, and investment risk is borne by, the contract holder and therefore, are not included in the Company’s consolidated statements of income.
	Revenues to the Company from the separate accounts consist of contract maintenance fees, investment management fees, administrative fees and mortality and expense risk charges.
	The Company’s separate accounts invest in shares of Great-West Funds, Inc. (“Great-West Funds”) and Putnam Funds, open-end management investment companies, which are affiliates of the Company, and shares of other non-affiliated mutual funds and government and corporate bonds.
Life insurance and annuity future benefits	Future policy benefits liabilities
	Life insurance and annuity future benefits liabilities with life contingencies in the amounts of $15,349,322 and $14,296,153 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, are computed on the basis of assumed investment yield, mortality, morbidity and expenses, including a margin for adverse deviation. These future policy benefits are calculated as the present value of future benefits (including dividends) and expenses less the present value of future net premiums. The assumptions used in calculating the future policy benefits generally vary by plan, year of issue and policy duration. Additionally, these future policy benefits are established for claims that have been incurred but not reported based on factors derived from past experience.
Reinsurance ceded	Reinsurance ceded
	In the normal course of its business, the Company seeks to limit its exposure to loss on any single insured and to recover a portion of benefits paid by ceding risks to other insurance enterprises under excess coverage, quota share, yearly renewable term, coinsurance and modified coinsurance contracts. For each of its reinsurance agreements, the Company determines if the agreement provides indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk in accordance with applicable accounting standards. If the Company determines that a reinsurance agreement does not provide indemnification against loss or liability relating to insurance risk, the Company records the agreement using the deposit method of accounting. The Company reviews all contractual features, particularly those that may limit the amount of insurance risk to which the reinsurer is subject or features that delay the timely reimbursement of claims.
	Policy benefits and policy and contract claims ceded to other insurance companies are carried as a reinsurance receivable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Premiums, fee income and policyholder benefits are reported net of reinsurance ceded in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. The cost of reinsurance related to long duration contracts is accounted for over the life of the underlying reinsured policies using assumptions consistent with those used to account for the underlying policies.
	The Company strives to cede risks to highly rated, well-capitalized reinsurers. The Company monitors and evaluates the financial condition of reinsurers to minimize exposure to credit risk.
Policy and contract claims	Policy and contract claims
	Policy and contract claims include provisions for claims incurred but not reported and claims in the process of settlement. The provision for claims incurred but not reported is valued based primarily on the Company’s prior experience. Claims in the process of settlement are valued in accordance with the terms of the related policies and contracts.
Participating business	Participating business
	The Company has participating policies in which the policyholder shares in the Company’s earnings through policyholder dividends that reflect the difference between the assumptions used in the premium charged and the actual experience on those policies. The amount of dividends to be paid is determined by the Board of Directors.
Net investment income	Revenue recognition
	Life insurance premiums are recognized when due in premiums. Annuity contract premiums with life contingencies are recognized as received. Revenues for annuity and other contracts without significant life contingencies consist of contract charges for the cost of insurance and contract administration and surrender fees that have been assessed against the contract account balance during the period and are recognized when earned in fee income. Fees from assets under management, assets under administration, shareholder servicing, mortality and expense risk charges, administration and record-keeping services and investment advisory services are recognized when due in fee income.
Income taxes	Income taxes
	Income taxes are recorded using the asset and liability method in which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded for expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in either the Company’s consolidated financial statements or consolidated tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, all expected future events, other than enactments or changes in the tax laws or rules, are considered. A valuation allowance is provided to the extent that it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will be realized. The effect on deferred taxes from a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
Share-based compensation	Share-based compensation
	Lifeco maintains the Great-West Lifeco Inc. Stock Option Plan (the “Lifeco plan”) that is accounted for as an equity award that provides for the granting of options on its common shares to certain of its officers and employees and those of its subsidiaries, including the Company. The Lifeco plan provides for granting of options with varying terms and vesting requirements with vesting commencing on the first anniversary of the grant, exercisable within 10 years from the date of grant. The Company uses the fair value method to recognize the cost of share-based employee compensation under the Lifeco plan.
	The Company maintains a Performance Share Unit Plan (“PSU plan”) that is accounted for as a liability award for senior executives of the Company. Under the PSU plan, performance share units are granted to certain senior executives of the Company, having a value equal to the participants’ deferred incentive compensation for the period. The performance share units generally vest in their entirety at the end of the three years performance period based on continued service. The Company uses the fair value method to recognize the cost of share-based employee compensation under the PSU plan.

Acquisition_Tables

Acquisition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition	The Company updated the previously reported allocation of purchase price as of September 30, 2014 for the measurement period adjustments that are reflected in the table below:
		As of		Measurement Period Adjustment			As of
		September 30,					December 31,
		2014					2014
		(Unaudited)
	Assets acquired and goodwill:
	Goodwill (1)	$	50,249	$	(17,821	)	$	32,428
	Other intangible assets (2)	—		16,291			16,291
	Other assets
	Fixed assets (3)	12,680		—			12,680
	Accounts receivable (4)	24,050		105			24,155
	Other (4)	1,224		(122		)	1,102
	Total other assets	37,954		(17		)	37,937
	Total assets acquired and goodwill	88,203		(1,547		)	86,656
	Liabilities assumed and contingent consideration:
	Other liabilities
	Accrued expenses and other (4)	26,108		772			26,880
	Contingent consideration (5)	33,739		(1,530		)	32,209
	Total other liabilities	59,847		(758		)	59,089
	Total liabilities assumed and contingent consideration	$	59,847	$	(758	)	$	59,089
	(1) Goodwill
	Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the net assets recognized and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired and liabilities assumed that could not be individually identified (Level 3). Total goodwill resulting from the acquisition, in the amount of $32,428, is allocated to the Retirement Services segment. No portion of goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
	(2) Other Intangible Assets
	Other intangible assets include customer relationships and non-competition intangible assets. The fair value of the customer relationships intangible asset was determined using the excess earnings method under the income approach (Level 3). This valuation method is based on first forecasting revenue for the existing customer base and then applying expected attrition rates. The operating cash flows are calculated by determining the cost required to generate revenue from the existing customer base. Key assumptions include projections of revenues generated from existing customers which includes an estimated rate of attrition, projections of operating expenses, and a discount rate of 14%.
	The fair value of the non-competition intangible asset was determined using the with and without method under the income approach (Level 3). The premise associated with this valuation approach is that the value of an asset is represented by the differences in the subject business’ cash flows under scenarios where a) the asset is present and is used in operations; and b) the asset is absent and not used in operations. Such differences may arise due to additional revenue and/or cost savings associated with having the asset in place. Cash flow differentials are then discounted to present value to arrive at an estimate of fair value for the asset. Key assumptions include projected cash flows with the non-competition agreement in place, projected cash flows without the non-competition agreement in place, the expected time period under which the cash flow differences would occur, the probability of competition and success and a discount rate of 14%.
	(3) Fixed Assets
	The fair value of property, plant and equipment and software was determined using a cost approach and a market approach (Level 2). The cost approach is based on current replacement cost and/or reproduction costs of the assets as new less depreciation attributable to physical, functional and economic factors. The market approach is based on market data for similar assets.
	(4) Accounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities
	Accounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities are current assets and liabilities that are generally carried at fair value which is approximated from the carrying value (Level 2).
	(5) Contingent consideration
	In addition to the cash paid during 2014, the Company is obligated to make an additional earnout payment based on the retention of aggregated revenue, as defined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement, 24 months after the close date. As such, the remaining earnout payment is due on August 29, 2016. The potential undiscounted amount of the earnout payment that the Company could be required to make under the contingent consideration arrangement is between zero and $50,000. The fair value of the contingent consideration of $32,209 was estimated by a discounted cash flow model (Level 3) which calculates the present value of a probability-weighted earnout using a discount rate of 3%.

Related_Party_Transactions_Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of related party amounts included in the consolidated balance sheets in connection with the reinsurance agreements	Included in the consolidated balance sheets are the following amounts related to reinsurance ceded to and assumed from related parties:
		December 31,
		2014				2013
	Reinsurance receivable	$	529,921			$	502,471
	Future policy benefits	1,812,077				1,887,182
Schedule of related party amounts included in the consolidated statements of income in connection with the reinsurance agreements	Included in the consolidated statements of income are the following related party amounts:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Premium income, net of related party premiums ceded of $13,901, $(30,114) and $18,112	$	71,453			$	137,785			$	85,873
	Life and other policy benefits, net of reinsurance recoveries of $4,594, $(536) and $12,562	209,102				216,809				215,880
	Decrease in future policy benefits	(46,915		)		(2,556		)		(39,439		)
Schedule of revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided	The following table presents revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided and/or received pursuant to these service agreements. These amounts, in accordance with the terms of the contracts, are based upon market price, estimated costs incurred or resources expended as determined by number of policies, number of participants, certificates in-force, administered assets or other similar drivers.
				Year Ended December 31,											Financial statement line
	Description	Related party		2014				2013				2012
	Provides corporate support service	The Canada Life Assurance Company (“CLAC”) (1), Great-West Life Assurance Company (“Great-West Life”) (1), MAM Holding Inc. (1) and Putnam (2)		$	(2,055	)		$	(1,971	)		$	(1,698	)	General insurance expense
	Receives corporate support services	CLAC (1), Great-West Life (1) and Putnam (2)		4,053				2,556				2,610			General insurance expense
	Provides investment advisory and administrative services to U.S. branches of Lifeco insurance subsidiaries	CLAC (1) and Great-West Life (1)		1,803				2,586				2,929			Net investment income
	Provides investment advisory and administrative services to Canadian subsidiaries of of Lifeco	CLAC (1), Great-West Life (1) and London Life Financial Corporation (“London Life”) (1)		3,912				4,487				4,841			Fee income
	Provides record-keeping services	CLAC (1) and Putnam (2)		13,956				10,625				7,677			Fee income
	Provides U.S. tax services	London Life (1), LRG (US) Inc. (1), Putnam (2), Thomas H. Lee Partners L.P. (1) and CLAC (1)		(402		)		(361		)		(352		)	General insurance expense
	Receives reimbursement from tax sharing indemnification related to state and local tax liabilities	Putnam (2)		7,506				—				—			Other revenue
				—				8,114				6,206			Fee income
	Received internally developed internal use software	Putnam (2)		1,008				—				—			Other assets
	(1) An indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Lifeco
	(2) A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lifeco U.S.
Schedule of amounts due from parent and affiliates	The following table summarizes amounts due from parent and affiliates:
						December 31,
	Related party	Indebtedness		Due date		2014				2013
	GWL&A Financial	On account		On demand		$	32,572			$	23,396
	Lifeco U.S.	On account		On demand		13,369				64,786
	Other related party receivables	On account		On demand		1,252				2,875
	Total					$	47,193			$	91,057
Schedule of amounts due to parent and affiliates	The following table summarizes amounts due to parent and affiliates:
						December 31,
	Related party	Indebtedness		Due date		2014				2013
	GWL&A Financial (1)	Surplus note		November 2034		$	194,446			$	194,418
	GWL&A Financial (2)	Surplus note		May 2046		333,400				333,400
	GWL&A Financial	Note interest		May 2014		4,701				4,701
	Putnam	On account		On demand		7,257				—
	CLAC	On account		On demand		3,986				6,038
	Great-West Life	On account		On demand		1,739				1,514
	London Life	On account		On demand		1,737				1,722
	Total					$	547,266			$	541,793
	(1) A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on November 15, 2004, with a face amount of $195,000 and carrying amounts of $194,446 and $194,418 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The surplus note bears interest at the rate of 6.675% per annum, payable in arrears each May and November.  The note matures on November 14, 2034.
	(2) A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on May 19, 2006, with a face amount and carrying amount of $333,400.  The surplus note bears interest initially at the rate of 7.203% per annum, payable in arrears each May and November until May 16, 2016.  After May 16, 2016, the surplus note bears an interest rate of 2.588% plus the then-current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate (“LIBOR”).  The surplus note is redeemable by the Company at the principal amount plus any accrued and unpaid interest after May 16, 2016.  The note matures on May 16, 2046.
Schedule of related party amounts included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement	The Company recorded, at fair value, the following on January 1, 2013, in its consolidated balance sheet in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement:
	Assets					Liabilities
	Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	44,104			Undistributed earnings on participating business		$	4,781
	Policy loans	6,468				Due to parent and affiliates		3,841
	Reinsurance receivable	(42,297		)
	Investment income due and accrued	347
	Total	$	8,622			Total		$	8,622
Schedule of related party amounts included in the condensed consolidated statements of income in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement	The Company recorded the following on January 1, 2013, in its consolidated statement of income in connection with the termination of the reinsurance agreement:
	Premium income	$	42,297
	Other revenue	7,355
	Total	49,652
	Increase in future policy benefits	41,297
	Dividends to policyholders	1,000
	Total	42,297
	Participating policyholders’ net income before income taxes	7,355
	Income tax expense	2,574
	Participating policyholders’ income	4,781
	Provision for policyholders’ share of earnings on participating business	4,781
	Net income available to shareholder	$	—

Summary_of_Investments_Tables

Summary of Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Summary of fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale and the non-credit related components of OTTI in AOCI	The following tables summarize fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale and the non-credit-related component of OTTI in AOCI:
		31-Dec-14
		Amortized			Gross unrealized			Gross unrealized			Estimated fair value		OTTI (gain) loss
	Fixed maturities:	cost			gains			losses			and carrying value		included in AOCI (1)
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	3,478,153		$	70,597		$	1,494		$	3,547,256	$	—
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	1,885,715			287,668			899			2,172,484		—
	Foreign government securities	2,455			—			4			2,451		—
	Corporate debt securities (2)	11,258,517			763,036			82,104			11,939,449		(2,228		)
	Asset-backed securities	1,263,089			149,152			13,702			1,398,539		(96,603		)
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	167,793			7,368			1,932			173,229		(185		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	886,748			32,556			1,099			918,205		—
	Collateralized debt obligations	10,674			—			209			10,465		—
	Total fixed maturities	$	18,953,144		$	1,310,377		$	101,443		$	20,162,078	$	(99,016	)
	(1) Indicates the amount of any OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI that is included in gross unrealized gains and losses.  OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI, as presented above, includes both the initial recognition of non-credit losses and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities with previous non-credit impairment. The non-credit loss component of OTTI (gain) loss was in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	(2) Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $157,742 and estimated fair value of $131,799.
		31-Dec-13
		Amortized			Gross unrealized			Gross unrealized			Estimated fair value		OTTI (gain) loss
	Fixed maturities:	cost			gains			losses			and carrying value		included in AOCI (1)
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	3,044,185		$	43,827		$	23,373		$	3,064,639	$	—
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	1,763,797			196,742			16,952			1,943,587		—
	Foreign government securities	2,617			—			14			2,603		—
	Corporate debt securities (2)	10,454,252			568,261			223,532			10,798,981		(2,553		)
	Asset-backed securities	1,553,510			131,277			29,150			1,655,637		(98,502		)
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	244,723			8,335			3,473			249,585		(129		)
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	731,688			21,951			11,515			742,124		—
	Collateralized debt obligations	12,587			14			213			12,388		—
	Total fixed maturities	$	17,807,359		$	970,407		$	308,222		$	18,469,544	$	(101,184	)
	(1) Indicates the amount of any OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI that is included in gross unrealized gains and losses.  OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI, as presented above, includes both the initial recognition of non-credit losses and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities with previous non-credit impairment. The non-credit loss component of OTTI (gain) loss was in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
	(2) Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $172,054 and estimated fair value of $143,644.
Schedule of amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale	The amortized cost and estimated fair value of fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale, based on estimated cash flows, are shown in the table below.  Actual maturities will likely differ from these projections because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.
		31-Dec-14
		Amortized cost			Estimated fair value
	Maturing in one year or less	$	567,095		$	595,521
	Maturing after one year through five years	3,583,929			3,887,276
	Maturing after five years through ten years	4,098,780			4,331,464
	Maturing after ten years	5,203,246			5,636,566
	Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities	5,500,094			5,711,251
	Total fixed maturities	$	18,953,144		$	20,162,078
Summary of information regarding the sales of securities classified as available-for-sale	The following table summarizes information regarding the sales of securities classified as available-for-sale:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Proceeds from sales	$	2,705,999		$	2,518,568		$	2,697,809
	Gross realized gains from sales	47,852			71,758			113,984
	Gross realized losses from sales	1,229			27,792			4,371
Schedule of the carrying value of the mortgage loan portfolio by component	Mortgage loans on real estate - The following table summarizes the carrying value of the mortgage loan portfolio by component:
		31-Dec-14			31-Dec-13
	Principal	$	3,356,374		$	3,124,626
	Unamortized premium (discount) and fees, net	10,086			12,519
	Mortgage provision allowance	(2,890		)	(2,890		)
	Total mortgage loans	$	3,363,570		$	3,134,255
Summary of activity in the mortgage provision allowance	The following table summarizes activity in the mortgage provision allowance:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		Commercial mortgages			Commercial mortgages			Commercial mortgages
	Beginning balance	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	21,130
	Provision increases	—			273			1,067
	Charge-off	—			(273		)	(992		)
	Recovery	—			—			(75		)
	Provision decreases	—			—			(18,240		)
	Ending balance	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	2,890
	Allowance ending balance by basis of impairment method:
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	$	2,890		$	2,890		$	2,890
	Recorded investment balance in the mortgage loan portfolio, gross of allowance, by basis of impairment method:	$	3,366,460		$	3,137,145		$	2,884,648
	Individually evaluated for impairment	12,986			13,906			14,970
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	3,353,474			3,123,239			2,869,678
Schedule of unrealized investment losses, including the non-credit-related portion of OTTI losses reported in AOCI, by class of investment	Unrealized losses on fixed maturity investments classified as available-for-sale - The following tables summarize unrealized investment losses, including the non-credit-related portion of OTTI losses reported in AOCI, by class of investment:
		31-Dec-14
		Less than twelve months						Twelve months or longer					Total
		Estimated			Unrealized			Estimated			Unrealized		Estimated			Unrealized
	Fixed maturities:	fair value			loss and OTTI			fair value			loss and OTTI		fair value			loss and OTTI
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	566,335		$	503		$	74,322		$	991	$	640,657		$	1,494
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	18,280			218			41,064			681		59,344			899
	Foreign government securities	2,451			4			—			—		2,451			4
	Corporate debt securities	836,263			16,775			764,528			65,329		1,600,791			82,104
	Asset-backed securities	88,312			849			200,072			12,853		288,384			13,702
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	4,663			11			24,052			1,921		28,715			1,932
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	35,015			127			57,333			972		92,348			1,099
	Collateralized debt obligations	10,465			209			—			—		10,465			209
	Total fixed maturities	$	1,561,784		$	18,696		$	1,161,371		$	82,747	$	2,723,155		$	101,443
	Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position				134						153					287
		31-Dec-13
		Less than twelve months						Twelve months or longer					Total
		Estimated			Unrealized			Estimated			Unrealized		Estimated			Unrealized
	Fixed maturities:	fair value			loss and OTTI			fair value			loss and OTTI		fair value			loss and OTTI
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	2,399,373		$	23,156		$	5,192		$	217	$	2,404,565		$	23,373
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	214,979			16,713			837			239		215,816			16,952
	Foreign government securities	2,603			14			—			—		2,603			14
	Corporate debt securities	2,632,093			144,367			511,376			79,165		3,143,469			223,532
	Asset-backed securities	305,377			12,763			305,740			16,387		611,117			29,150
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	32,131			3,454			1,011			19		33,142			3,473
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	177,395			6,703			48,825			4,812		226,220			11,515
	Collateralized debt obligations	—			—			12,356			213		12,356			213
	Total fixed maturities	$	5,763,951		$	207,170		$	885,337		$	101,052	$	6,649,288		$	308,222
	Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position				458						109					567
Schedule of OTTI of fixed maturity securities where loss portion is bifurcated and the credit related component recognized in realized investment gains (losses)	Other-than-temporary impairment recognition - The OTTI on fixed maturity securities where the loss portion is bifurcated and the credit related component is recognized in realized investment gains (losses) is summarized as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	167,961		$	167,788		$	186,999
	Additions:
	Initial impairments - credit loss on securities not previously impaired	—			—			4,429
	Credit loss recognized on securities previously impaired	—			173			—
	Reductions:
	Due to sales, maturities, or payoffs during the period	(646		)	—			(23,640		)
	Due to increases in cash flows expected to be collected that are recognized over the remaining life of the security	(47,783		)	—			—
	Ending balance	$	119,532		$	167,961		$	167,788
Summary of net investment income	The following table summarizes net investment income:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Investment income:
	Fixed maturity and short-term investments	$	816,907		$	766,367		$	808,215
	Mortgage loans on real estate	149,497			147,944			138,411
	Policy loans	207,013			206,718			213,300
	Limited partnership interests	9,128			9,131			7,566
	Net interest on funds withheld balances under reinsurance agreements, related party	21,295			20,876			19,382
	Derivative instruments (1)	39,533			(44,610		)	16,008
	Other	5,008			3,321			5,222
		1,248,381			1,109,747			1,208,104
	Investment expenses	(19,993		)	(18,358		)	(16,553		)
	Net investment income	$	1,228,388		$	1,091,389		$	1,191,551
	(1) Includes gains (losses) on the hedged asset for fair value hedges.
Summary of realized investment gains (losses)	The following table summarizes realized investment gains (losses):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Realized investment gains (losses):
	Fixed maturity and short-term investments	$	54,219		$	37,312		$	105,675
	Derivative instruments	90,504			(62,077		)	(10,221		)
	Mortgage loans on real estate	6,857			10,895			21,471
	Other	(4,209		)	(266		)	(208		)
	Realized investment gains (losses)	$	147,371		$	(14,136	)	$	116,717

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen1

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of derivative financial instruments	The following tables summarize derivative financial instruments:
		31-Dec-14
						Net derivatives				Asset derivatives				Liability derivatives
		Notional amount				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)
	Hedge designation/derivative type:
	Derivatives designated as hedges:
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	184,200			$	17,746			$	17,746			$	—
	Cross-currency swaps	174,245				2,322				5,143				2,821
	Total cash flow hedges	358,445				20,068				22,889				2,821
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	78,000				1,506				1,637				131
	Total fair value hedges	78,000				1,506				1,637				131
	Total derivatives designated as hedges	436,445				21,574				24,526				2,952
	Derivatives not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	128,100				4,402				6,246				1,844
	Futures on equity indices	5,505				—				—				—
	Interest rate futures	17,958				—				—				—
	Interest rate swaptions	293,964				271				271				—
	Cross-currency swaps	662,935				(127,230		)		4,561				131,791
	Total derivatives not designated as hedges	1,108,462				(122,557		)		11,078				133,635
	Total derivative financial instruments	$	1,544,907			$	(100,983	)		$	35,604			$	136,587
	(1) The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
		31-Dec-13
						Net derivatives				Asset derivatives				Liability derivatives
		Notional amount				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)				Fair value (1)
	Hedge designation/derivative type:
	Derivatives designated as hedges:
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	184,200			$	13,829			$	13,829			$	—
	Cross-currency swaps	102,545				(7,843		)		—				7,843
	Total cash flow hedges	286,745				5,986				13,829				7,843
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	78,000				4,951				5,098				147
	Total fair value hedges	78,000				4,951				5,098				147
	Total derivatives designated as hedges	364,745				10,937				18,927				7,990
	Derivatives not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	55,600				(2,038		)		1,454				3,492
	Futures on equity indices	3,483				—				—				—
	Interest rate futures	16,233				—				—				—
	Interest rate swaptions	494,774				1,176				1,176				—
	Cross-currency swaps	557,676				(154,340		)		1,921				156,261
	Total derivatives not designated as hedges	1,127,766				(155,202		)		4,551				159,753
	Total derivative financial instruments	$	1,492,511			$	(144,265	)		$	23,478			$	167,743
	(1) The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
Schedule of the effect of derivative instruments in the consolidated statement of income reported by cash flow hedges, fair value hedges and economic hedges	The following tables present the effect of derivative instruments in the consolidated statement of income reported by cash flow hedges, fair value hedges and economic hedges:
		Gain (loss) recognized												Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI
		in OCI on derivatives												into net income (Effective portion)
		(Effective portion)
		Year Ended December 31,												Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012				2014			2013			2012
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	9,096			$	(12,285	)		$	5,220			$	7,462		$	5,067		$	2,856	(A)
	Cross-currency swaps	11,041				15,387				(24,101		)		1,030			—			—		(A)
	Cross-currency swaps	—				—				—				(154		)	—			—		(B)
	Interest rate futures	—				—				—				70			63			63		(A)
	Total cash flow hedges	$	20,137			$	3,102			$	(18,881	)		$	8,408		$	5,130		$	2,919
	(A) Net investment income.
	(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.
		Gain (loss) on derivatives												Gain (loss) on hedged assets
		recognized in net income												recognized in net income
		Year Ended December 31,												Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012				2014			2013			2012
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	$	(3,444	)		$	6,342			$	(380	)	(A)	$	—		$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps	—				1,909				—			(B)	—			—			—
	Items hedged in interest rate swaps	—				—				—				3,439			(5,308		)	380		(A)
	Items hedged in interest rate swaps	—				—				—				—			(2,943		)	—		(B)
	Total fair value hedges (1)	$	(3,444	)		$	8,251			$	(380	)		$	3,439		$	(8,251	)	$	380
	(1) Hedge ineffectiveness of ($5), zero and zero was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	(A) Net investment income.
	(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.
		Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
	Futures on equity indices	$	(41	)	(A)	$	(97	)	(A)	$	2		(A)
	Futures on equity indices	(534		)	(B)	(3,396		)	(B)	(774		)	(B)
	Interest rate swaps	6,508			(A)	(3,668		)	(A)	8,620			(A)
	Interest rate swaps	—			(B)	(622		)	(B)	(4,979		)	(B)
	Interest rate futures	(51		)	(A)	(458		)	(A)	164			(A)
	Interest rate futures	305			(B)	303			(B)	(2,641		)	(B)
	Interest rate swaptions	2,424			(A)	3,241			(A)	862			(A)
	Interest rate swaptions	(3,578		)	(B)	(2,828		)	(B)	(1,827		)	(B)
	Other forward contracts	94,465			(B)	(57,442		)	(B)	—			(B)
	Cross-currency swaps	24,588			(A)	(50,111		)	(A)	—			(A)
	Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	$	124,086			$	(115,078	)		$	(573	)
	(A) Net investment income.
	(B) Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.

Summary_of_Offsetting_Assets_a1

Summary of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Offsetting [Abstract]
Summary of the Company's financial instruments that are subject to master netting arrangements	The following tables summarize the effect of master netting arrangements on the Company’s financial position in the normal course of business and in the event of default or bankruptcy of the Company’s counterparties:
		31-Dec-14
				Gross fair value not offset
				in balance sheets
		Gross fair value of		Financial			Cash collateral			Net
	Financial instruments:	recognized assets/liabilities (1)		instruments			received/(pledged)			fair value
	Derivative instruments (assets) (2)	$	32,895	$	(32,595	)	$	279		$	21
	Derivative instruments (liabilities) (3)	140,655		(32,595		)	(105,929		)	2,131
		31-Dec-13
				Gross fair value not offset
				in balance sheets
		Gross fair value of		Financial			Cash collateral			Net
	Financial instruments:	recognized assets/liabilities (1)		instruments			received/(pledged)			fair value
	Derivative instruments (assets) (2)	$	25,250	$	(25,023	)	$	—		$	227
	Derivative instruments (liabilities) (3)	171,387		(25,023		)	(143,540		)	2,824
	(1) The gross fair value of derivative instruments are not netted against offsetting liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets.
	(2) The estimated fair value of derivative instrument assets is reported in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.
	(3) The estimated fair value of derivative instrument liabilities is reported in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis	The following tables present the Company’s financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis by fair value hierarchy category:
		Assets and liabilities measured at
		fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-14
		Quoted prices			Significant other			Significant			Total
		in active markets			observable inputs			unobservable
		for identical assets (Level 1)			(Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	—		$	3,547,256		$	—		$	3,547,256
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	—			2,172,484			—			2,172,484
	Foreign government securities	—			2,451			—			2,451
	Corporate debt securities	—			11,933,607			5,842			11,939,449
	Asset-backed securities	—			1,398,503			36			1,398,539
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			173,229			—			173,229
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			918,205			—			918,205
	Collateralized debt obligations	—			10,465			—			10,465
	Total fixed maturities available-for-sale	—			20,156,200			5,878			20,162,078
	Fixed maturities held for trading:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	—			279,602			—			279,602
	Corporate debt securities	—			57,850			—			57,850
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			1,091			—			1,091
	Total fixed maturities held for trading	—			338,543			—			338,543
	Short-term investments	156,935			106,566			—			263,501
	Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741			—			—			13,741
	Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	106,901			—			—			106,901
	Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			19,383			—			19,383
	Cross-currency swaps	—			5,143			—			5,143
	Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			6,246			—			6,246
	Interest rate swaptions	—			271			—			271
	Cross-currency swaps	—			4,561			—			4,561
	Total derivative instruments	—			35,604			—			35,604
	Separate account assets	16,146,057			11,572,787						27,718,844
	Total assets	$	16,423,634		$	32,209,700		$	5,878		$	48,639,212
	Liabilities
	Payable under securities lending agreements	$	13,741		$	—		$	—		$	13,741
	Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	791			—			—			791
	Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			131			—			131
	Cross-currency swaps	—			2,821			—			2,821
	Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
	Interest rate swaps	—			1,844			—			1,844
	Cross-currency swaps	—			131,791			—			131,791
	Total derivative instruments	—			136,587			—			136,587
	Separate account liabilities (1)	15			217,712			—			217,727
	Total liabilities	$	14,547		$	354,299		$	—		$	368,846
	(1) Includes only separate account instruments which are carried at the fair value of the underlying liabilities owned by the separate accounts.
		Assets and liabilities measured at
		fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-13
		Quoted prices			Significant other			Significant			Total
		in active markets			observable inputs			unobservable
		for identical assets (Level 1)			(Level 2)			inputs (Level 3)
	Assets
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
	U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	$	—		$	3,064,639		$	—		$	3,064,639
	Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions	—			1,943,587			—			1,943,587
	Foreign government securities	—			2,603			—			2,603
	Corporate debt securities	—			10,792,329			6,652			10,798,981
	Asset-backed securities	—			1,402,679			252,958			1,655,637
	Residential mortgage-backed securities	—			249,585			—			249,585
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			742,124			—			742,124
Collateralized debt obligations	—			12,356			32			12,388
Total fixed maturities available-for-sale	—			18,209,902			259,642			18,469,544
Fixed maturities held for trading:
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies	—			236,000			—			236,000
Corporate debt securities	—			58,171			—			58,171
Asset-backed securities	—			40,858			—			40,858
Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—			1,026			—			1,026
Total fixed maturities held for trading	—			336,055			—			336,055
Short-term investments	254,378			39,909			—			294,287
Collateral under securities lending agreements	18,534			—			—			18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	143,710			—			—			143,710
Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			18,927			—			18,927
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			1,454			—			1,454
Interest rate swaptions	—			1,176			—			1,176
Cross-currency swaps	—			1,921			—			1,921
Total derivative instruments	—			23,478			—			23,478
Separate account assets	14,861,680			11,769,224			—			26,630,904
Total assets	$	15,278,302		$	30,378,568		$	259,642		$	45,916,512
Liabilities
Payable under securities lending agreements	$	18,534		$	—		$	—		$	18,534
Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			147			—			147
Cross-currency swaps	—			7,843			—			7,843
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
Interest rate swaps	—			3,492			—			3,492
Cross-currency swaps	—			156,261			—			156,261
Total derivative instruments	—			167,743			—			167,743
Separate account liabilities (1)	2			166,325			—			166,327
Total liabilities	$	18,536		$	334,068		$	—		$	352,604
(1)  Includes only separate account instruments which are carried at the fair value of the underlying liabilities owned by the separate accounts.
Schedule of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, for which Level 3 inputs are utilized to determine fair value	The following tables present additional information about assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:
		Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Fixed maturities available-for-sale
		Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized
		debt securities			securities			debt obligations			Total
	Balances, January 1, 2014	$	6,652		$	252,958		$	32		$	259,642
	Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
	Net Income	—			—			(17		)	(17		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	(178		)	—			(15		)	(193		)
	Settlements	(632		)	(19		)	—			(651		)
	Transfers out of Level 3 (1)	—			(252,903		)	—			(252,903		)
	Balances, December 31, 2014	$	5,842		$	36		$	—		$	5,878
	Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2014	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	(1) Transfers out of Level 3 are due primarily to increased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies as evidenced by corroboration of market prices with multiple pricing vendors and internal models.
		Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Fixed maturities available-for-sale
		Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized
		debt securities			securities			debt obligations			Total
	Balances, January 1, 2013	$	1,822		$	265,538		$	32		$	267,392
	Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	(240		)	34,766			—			34,526
	Settlements	(762		)	(47,346		)	—			(48,108		)
	Transfers into Level 3 (1)	5,832			—			—			5,832
	Balances, December 31, 2013	$	6,652		$	252,958		$	32		$	259,642
	Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	(1) Transfers into Level 3 are due primarily to decreased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies.
		Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Fixed maturities available-for-sale
		Corporate			Asset-backed			Collateralized			Separate
		debt securities			securities			debt obligations			accounts			Total
	1-Jan-12	$	36,496		$	279,021		$	22		$	2,118		$	317,657
	Realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in:
	Net income	(66		)	—			—			(3,692		)	(3,758		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	102			33,346			11			3,604			37,063
	Sales	(1,598		)	—			—			(1,997		)	(3,595		)
	Settlements	(874		)	(41,809		)	(1		)	(33		)	(42,717		)
	Transfers out of Level 3 (1)	(32,238		)	(5,020		)	—			—			(37,258		)
	Balances, December 31, 2012	$	1,822		$	265,538		$	32		$	—		$	267,392
	Total gains (losses) for the period included in net income attributable to the change in unrealized gains and losses relating to assets held at December 31, 2012	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	(1) Transfers out of Level 3 are due primarily to increased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies as evidenced by corroboration of market prices with multiple pricing vendors and internal models.
Schedule of significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table	The following table presents significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of certain assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table:
		31-Dec-13
		Fair Value			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Weighted
					Technique			Average
	Fixed maturities available-for-sale:
	Asset-backed securities (1)	$	252,902		Internal model pricing		Prepayment speed assumption	9
							Constant default rate assumption	5
							Adjusted ABX Index spread assumption (2)	455
	(1)  Includes home improvement loans only.
	(2)  Includes an internally calculated liquidity premium adjustment of 217.
	At December 31, 2013, after adjusting the ABX Index spread assumption by the liquidity premium, the overall discount rate ranged from 327 to 647 basis points.  The constant default rate assumption ranged from 2.0 to 12.9.
Summary of the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments not carried at fair value on a recurring basis	The following tables summarize the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments not carried at fair value on a recurring basis:
		31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13
		Carrying			Estimated			Carrying			Estimated
		amount			fair value			amount			fair value
	Assets
	Mortgage loans on real estate	$	3,363,570		$	3,558,111		$	3,134,255		$	3,197,292
	Policy loans	4,130,062			4,130,062			4,185,472			4,185,472
	Limited partnership interests	38,796			41,853			44,551			42,433
	Other investments	15,614			43,263			16,643			42,814
	Liabilities
	Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies	$	10,569,147		$	10,563,477		$	10,263,043		$	9,986,464
	Policyholders’ funds	335,484			335,484			345,689			345,689
	Commercial paper	98,589			98,589			98,990			98,990
	Notes payable	532,547			564,904			532,519			541,918

Minimum_Guarantees_Tables

Minimum Guarantees (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Schedule of Minimum Guaranteed Benefit Liabilities	The following assumptions and methodology were used to determine GMDB additional reserves at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Area	Assumptions/Basis for Assumptions
	Data Used	Based on 1,050 investment performance scenarios
	Mean Investment Performance	Investment performance modeled in 3 classes:
		Regular Equity - 10%
		Aggressive Equity - 12%
		Fixed, Bond, Money Market Fund: level 3%
	Volatility	Volatility modeled in 3 classes:
		Regular Equity - 23%
		Aggressive Equity - 33%
		Fixed, Bond, Money Market Fund: None
	Mortality	Based on the 1994 VA MGDB Mortality Table
	Lapse Rates	Lapse Rates vary by duration and surrender charge
	Discount Rates	5%
	The paid and incurred amounts for GMDB for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Additional liability balance:
	Balances, January 1,	$	5,993		$	6,928		$	7,954
	Incurred guaranteed benefits	305			(135		)	(613		)
	Paid guaranteed benefits	(732		)	(800		)	(413		)
	Balances, December 31,	$	5,566		$	5,993		$	6,928
	The separate account liabilities subject to the requirements for additional reserve liabilities for GMDB, net amount at risk, net of reinsurance, and the weighted average attained age of contract owners for GMDB at December 31, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
		GMDB
	December 31, 2014
	Separate account liability	$	60,388
	Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance	$	30,095
	Weighted average attained age	69
	December 31, 2013
	Separate account liability	$	61,140
	Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance	$	32,032
	Weighted average attained age	69

Reinsurance_Tables

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Insurance [Abstract]
Summary of life insurance in-force
	The following tables summarize life insurance in-force and total premium income at and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Life insurance in-force
		Individual			Group			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	51,660,487		$	40,520,417		$	92,180,904
	Reinsurance ceded	(9,512,583		)	—			(9,512,583		)
	Reinsurance assumed	66,209,732			—			66,209,732
	Net	$	108,357,636		$	40,520,417		$	148,878,053
	Percentage of amount assumed to net	61		%	—		%	44		%
	The following tables summarize life insurance in-force and total premium income at and for the year ended December 31, 2014:
		Life insurance in-force
		Individual			Group			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	52,836,475		$	41,268,214		$	94,104,689
	Reinsurance ceded	(9,773,885		)	—			(9,773,885		)
	Reinsurance assumed	61,911,865			—			61,911,865
	Net	$	104,974,455		$	41,268,214		$	146,242,669
	Percentage of amount assumed to net	59		%	—		%	42		%
Summary of total premium income
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	315,100		$	4,000		$	319,100
	Reinsurance ceded	(1,338		)	(88		)	(1,426		)
	Reinsurance assumed	146,419			—			146,419
	Net	$	460,181		$	3,912		$	464,093
	The following table summarizes total premium income for the year ended December 31, 2012:
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	323,236		$	3,712		$	326,948
	Reinsurance ceded	(53,950		)	3,648			(50,302		)
	Reinsurance assumed	145,507			—			145,507
	Net	$	414,793		$	7,360		$	422,153
		Premium income
		Life insurance			Annuities			Total
	Written and earned direct	$	360,959		$	1,255		$	362,214
	Reinsurance ceded	(45,925		)	(95		)	(46,020		)
	Reinsurance assumed	130,201			—			130,201
	Net	$	445,235		$	1,160		$	446,395

Deferred_Acquisition_Costs_and1

Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of activity in DAC and VOBA	The following table summarizes activity in DAC and VOBA:
		DAC			VOBA			Total
	Balances, January 1, 2012	$	177,781		$	42,052		$	219,833
	Capitalized additions	94,826			—			94,826
	Amortization and writedowns	(51,434		)	(9,045		)	(60,479		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	(48,757		)	(962		)	(49,719		)
	Balances, December 31, 2012	172,416			32,045			204,461
	Correction to Balance, January 1, 2013	45,058			—			45,058
	Capitalized additions	80,486			—			80,486
	Amortization and writedowns	(55,490		)	(4,155		)	(59,645		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	71,601			1,327			72,928
	Balances, December 31, 2013	314,071			29,217			343,288
	Capitalized additions	110,315			—			110,315
	Amortization and writedowns	(41,045		)	(3,801		)	(44,846		)
	Unrealized investment (gains) losses	(29,933		)	(130		)	(30,063		)
	Balances, December 31, 2014	$	353,408		$	25,286		$	378,694

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	The balance of goodwill, all of which is within the Retirement Services segment, is as follows:
		Goodwill
		2014		2013
	Balances, January 1	$	105,255	$	105,255
	Acquisitions (1)	32,428		—
	Balances, December 31	$	137,683	$	105,255
	(1) During 2014, the Company acquired goodwill of $32,428 from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.
Schedule of other intangible assets	The following tables summarize other intangible assets, all of which are within the Retirement Services segment:
		31-Dec-14
		Gross carrying		Accumulated
		amount		amortization			Net book value
	Customer relationships (1)	$	51,280	$	(24,481	)	$	26,799
	Non-competition (1)	1,325		(209		)	1,116
	Total	$	52,605	$	(24,690	)	$	27,915
		31-Dec-13
		Gross carrying		Accumulated
		amount		amortization			Net book value
	Customer relationships	$	36,314	$	(21,159	)	$	15,155
	(1) During 2014, the Company acquired $14,966 and $1,325 of customer relationship and non-competition intangible assets, respectively, from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.

Commercial_Paper_Tables

Commercial Paper (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of information regarding commercial paper program	The following table provides information regarding the Company’s commercial paper program:
		December 31,
		2014	2013
	Face value	$98,589	$98,990
	Carrying value	98,589	98,990
	Effective interest rate	0.20%	0.2% - 0.3%
	Maturity range (days)	27-Jul	22-Feb

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide1

Stockholder's Equity and Dividend Restrictions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of net income and capital and surplus, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners	The Company’s net income and capital and surplus, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”), is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,							December 31,
		2014		2013		2012			2014		2013
	Net income	$	134,091	$	175,292	$	147,741	Capital and surplus	$	1,000,938	$	1,200,609

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Tab

Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Schedule of accumulated balances for each classification of other comprehensive income (loss)	The following tables present the accumulated balances for each classification of other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2014	$	434,023			$	25,517			$	(70,000	)	$	(43,786	)	$	345,754
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	381,198				13,089				(38,194		)	(67,380		)	288,713
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(31,038		)		(5,465		)		—			5,054			(31,449		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	350,160				7,624				(38,194		)	(62,326		)	257,264
	Balances, December 31, 2014	$	784,183			$	33,141			$	(108,194	)	$	(106,112	)	$	603,018
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2013	$	927,678			$	24,962			$	(194,147	)	$	(122,794	)	$	635,699
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(467,178		)		2,016				124,147			68,422			(272,593		)
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(26,477		)		(1,461		)		—			10,586			(17,352		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	(493,655		)		555				124,147			79,008			(289,945		)
	Balances, December 31, 2013	$	434,023			$	25,517			$	(70,000	)	$	(43,786	)	$	345,754
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on				Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged				Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments			Employee benefit plan adjustment			Total
		fixed maturities, available-for-sale
	Balances, January 1, 2012	$	646,805			$	41,003			$	(139,655	)	$	(78,171	)	$	469,982
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	347,118				(12,273		)		(54,492		)	(50,771		)	229,582
	Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(66,245		)		(3,768		)		—			6,148			(63,865		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	280,873				(16,041		)		(54,492		)	(44,623		)	165,717
	Balances, December 31, 2012	$	927,678			$	24,962			$	(194,147	)	$	(122,794	)	$	635,699
Schedule of composition of other comprehensive income (loss)	The following tables present the composition of other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	586,458			$	(205,260	)		$	381,198
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	20,137				(7,048		)		13,089
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(56,159		)		19,656				(36,503		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	550,436				(192,652		)		357,784
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	(58,760		)		20,566				(38,194		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	491,676				(172,086		)		319,590
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	(95,886		)		33,560				(62,326		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	395,790			$	(138,526	)		$	257,264
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	(718,735	)		$	251,557			$	(467,178	)
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	3,102				(1,086		)		2,016
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(42,982		)		15,044				(27,938		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	(758,615		)		265,515				(493,100		)
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	190,995				(66,848		)		124,147
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	(567,620		)		198,667				(368,953		)
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	121,551				(42,543		)		79,008
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(446,069	)		$	156,124			$	(289,945	)
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Before-tax				Tax (expense)				Net-of-tax
		amount				benefit				amount
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	534,028			$	(186,910	)		$	347,118
	Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising on cash flow hedges	(18,881		)		6,608				(12,273		)
	Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	(107,713		)		37,700				(70,013		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	407,434				(142,602		)		264,832
	Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	(83,835		)		29,343				(54,492		)
	Net unrealized gains (losses)	323,599				(113,259		)		210,340
	Employee benefit plan adjustment	(68,650		)		24,027				(44,623		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	254,949			$	(89,232	)		$	165,717
Schedule of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	The following table presents the reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013
	Details about accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components	Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)								Affected line item in the statement where net income is presented
	Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$	(47,751	)		$	(40,734	)		Other realized investment (gains) losses, net
		(47,751		)		(40,734		)		Total before tax
		(16,713		)		(14,257		)		Tax expense or benefit
		(31,038		)		(26,477		)		Net of tax
	Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on cash flow hedges	(8,408		)		(2,248		)		Net investment income
		(8,408		)		(2,248		)		Total before tax
		(2,943		)		(787		)		Tax expense or benefit
		(5,465		)		(1,461		)		Net of tax
	Amortization of employee benefit plan items
	Prior service costs (benefits)	3,189			(1)	(666		)	(1)
	Actuarial losses (gains)	2,730			(1)	16,952			(1)
	Settlement	1,857			(1)	—			(1)
		7,776				16,286				Total before tax
		2,722				5,700				Tax expense or benefit
		5,054				10,586				Net of tax
	Total reclassification for the period	$	(31,449	)		$	(17,352	)		Net of tax
	(1) These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic (benefit) cost of employee benefit plans (see Note 17 for additional details).

General_Insurance_Expenses_Tab

General Insurance Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract]
Summary of significant components of general insurance expenses	The following table summarizes the significant components of general insurance expenses:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Compensation	$	406,601	$	359,280	$	335,212
	Commissions	210,797		184,238		180,529
	Other	163,593		106,829		80,908
	Total general insurance expenses	$	780,991	$	650,347	$	596,649

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of reconciliation of the changes in the benefit obligations	The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the benefit obligations, fair value of plan assets and the underfunded status for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,							Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation, January 1	$	456,402			$	500,603		$	11,081		$	13,462		$	62,305		$	69,229		$	529,788		$	583,294
	Service cost	4,952				5,527			985			947			586			1,002			6,523			7,476
	Interest cost	23,068				20,897			574			512			2,528			2,548			26,170			23,957
	Actuarial (gain) loss	113,410				(57,051		)	(2,092		)	(3,221		)	3,376			(6,791		)	114,694			(67,063		)
	Regular benefits paid	(14,752		)		(13,574		)	(508		)	(619		)	(16,874		)	(3,683		)	(32,134		)	(17,876		)
	Amendment	—				—			(569		)	—			3,911			—			3,342			—
	Acquisition	—				—			3,311			—			—			—			3,311			—
	Benefit obligation, December 31	$	583,080			$	456,402		$	12,782		$	11,081		$	55,832		$	62,305		$	651,694		$	529,788
	Accumulated benefit obligation	$	562,760			$	440,666		$	12,782		$	11,081		$	50,032		$	54,195		$	625,574		$	505,942
Schedule of fair value of plan assets
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,							Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,						Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Change in plan assets:
	Value of plan assets, January 1	$	404,335			$	336,534		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	404,335		$	336,534
	Actual return on plan assets	43,662				62,701			—			—			—			—			43,662			62,701
	Employer contributions	10,717				18,674			508			619			16,874			3,683			28,099			22,976
	Benefits paid	(14,752		)		(13,574		)	(508		)	(619		)	(16,874		)	(3,683		)	(32,134		)	(17,876		)
	Value of plan assets, December 31	$	443,962			$	404,335		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	443,962		$	404,335
Schedule of fair value of plan assets and the underfunded status
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		December 31,							December 31,						December 31,						December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Under funded status at December 31	$	(139,118	)		$	(52,067	)	$	(12,782	)	$	(11,081	)	$	(55,832	)	$	(62,305	)	$	(207,732	)	$	(125,453	)
Schedule of amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets	The following table presents amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		December 31,							December 31,						December 31,						December 31,
		2014				2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
	Other liabilities	$	(139,118	)		$	(52,067	)	$	(12,782	)	$	(11,081	)	$	(55,832	)	$	(62,305	)	$	(207,732	)	$	(125,453	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(165,652		)		(69,564		)	14,390			13,885			(11,990		)	(11,687		)	(163,252		)	(67,366		)
Schedule of amounts recognized in AOCI that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs	The following table provides information regarding amounts in AOCI that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost at December 31, 2014:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Gross				Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax
	Net gain (loss)	$	(165,639	)		$	(107,665	)	$	10,686		$	6,946		$	(8,856	)	$	(5,756	)	$	(163,809	)	$	(106,475	)
	Net prior service (cost) credit	(13		)		(8		)	3,704			2,408			(3,134		)	(2,037		)	557			363
		$	(165,652	)		$	(107,673	)	$	14,390		$	9,354		$	(11,990	)	$	(7,793	)	$	(163,252	)	$	(106,112	)
Schedule of information regarding amounts in AOCI that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year	The following table provides information regarding amounts in AOCI that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the year ended December 31, 2015:
		Defined Benefit							Post-Retirement						Supplemental Executive						Total
		Pension Plan							Medical Plan						Retirement Plan
		Gross				Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax			Gross			Net of tax
	Net gain (loss)	$	(12,023	)		$	(7,815	)	$	606		$	394		$	(663	)	$	(431	)	$	(12,080	)	$	(7,852	)
	Prior service (cost) credit	(13		)		(8		)	1,669			1,085			(933		)	(606		)	723			471
		$	(12,036	)		$	(7,823	)	$	2,275		$	1,479		$	(1,596	)	$	(1,037	)	$	(11,357	)	$	(7,381	)
Schedule of expected benefit payments	The expected benefit payments for the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans for the years indicated are as follows:
		Defined Benefit				Post-Retirement			Supplemental
		Pension Plan				Medical Plan			Executive
									Retirement Plan
	2015	$	15,670			$	606		$	4,874
	2016	17,102				547			3,322
	2017	18,192				556			3,306
	2018	19,891				569			2,834
	2019	21,285				625			2,518
	2020 through 2024	135,763				4,171			15,883
Schedule of net periodic (benefit) cost	Net periodic (benefit) cost of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans included in general insurance expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income includes the following components:
		Defined Benefit Pension Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2012
	Components of net periodic cost:
	Service cost	$	4,952			$	5,527		$	4,350
	Interest cost	23,068				20,897			20,945
	Expected return on plan assets	(29,288		)		(24,499		)	(21,797		)
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	51				51			51
	Amortization of loss from earlier periods	2,898				16,001			9,941
	Net periodic cost	$	1,681			$	17,977		$	13,490
		Post-Retirement Medical Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2012
	Components of net periodic benefit:
	Service cost	$	985			$	947		$	817
	Interest cost	574				512			569
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service benefit	(1,706		)		(1,650		)	(1,650		)
	Amortization of gain from earlier periods	(450		)		(348		)	(455		)
	Net periodic benefit	$	(597	)		$	(539	)	$	(719	)
		Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013			2012
	Components of net periodic cost:
	Service cost	$	586			$	1,002		$	991
	Interest cost	2,528				2,548			2,912
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	4,844				933			934
	Amortization of loss from earlier periods	282				1,299			637
	Settlement	1,857				—			—
	Net periodic cost	$	10,097			$	5,782		$	5,474
Schedule of weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining benefit obligations	The following tables present the assumptions used in determining benefit obligations of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit Pension Plan
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	4.17	%		5.11	%
	Rate of compensation increase	4.47	%		4.47	%
		Post-Retirement Medical Plan
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	3.94	%		4.83	%
	Initial health care cost trend	6.5	%		7	%
	Ultimate health care cost trend	5	%		5	%
	Year ultimate trend is reached	2018			2018
		Supplemental Executive
		Retirement Plan
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	3.99	%		4.61	%
	Rate of compensation increase	4	%		4	%
Schedule of weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost	The following tables present the assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost of the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and the Supplemental Executive Retirement plans:
		Defined Benefit Pension Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	5.11	%		4.19	%
	Expected return on plan assets	7.25	%		7.25	%
	Rate of compensation increase	4.47	%		3.14	%
		Post-Retirement Medical Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	4.83	%		3.74	%
	Initial health care cost trend	7	%		7.5	%
	Ultimate health care cost trend	5	%		5.25	%
	Year ultimate trend is reached	2018			2018
		Supplemental Executive
		Retirement Plan
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013
	Discount rate	4.61	%		3.79	%
	Rate of compensation increase	4	%		4	%
Schedule of effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates	The following table presents the impact on the Post-Retirement Medical Plan that a one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have on the following:
		One percentage				One percentage
		point increase				point decrease
	Increase (decrease) on total service and interest cost on components	$	254			$	(212	)
	Increase (decrease) on post-retirement benefit obligation	1,722				(1,467		)
Schedule of investment of defined benefit pension plan assets	The following table presents how the Company’s Defined Benefit Pension Plan assets are invested:
		December 31,
		2014			2013
	Equity securities	65	%		63	%
	Debt securities	33	%		34	%
	Other	2	%		3	%
	Total	100	%		100	%
Schedule of defined benefit retirement plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	The following tables present information about the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan’s assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair value:
		Defined benefit plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-14
		Quoted prices				Significant			Significant			Total
		in active markets				other observable			unobservable
		for identical assets				inputs			inputs
		(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Common collective trust funds:
	Equity index funds	$	—			$	93,415		$	—		$	93,415
	Midcap index funds	—				90,159			—			90,159
	World equity index funds	—				8,759			—			8,759
	U.S. equity market funds	—				93,911			—			93,911
	Total common collective trust funds	—				286,244			—			286,244
	Fixed maturity investments:
	U.S. government direct obligations and agencies	—				9,308			—			9,308
	Obligations of U.S. states and their municipalities	—				18,838			—			18,838
	Corporate debt securities	—				107,125			—			107,125
	Asset-backed securities	—				8,444			—			8,444
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—				3,048			—			3,048
	Total fixed maturity investments	—				146,763			—			146,763
	Preferred stock	310				—			—			310
	Limited partnership investments	—				—			8,114			8,114
	Money market funds	2,531				—			—			2,531
	Total defined benefit plan assets	$	2,841			$	433,007		$	8,114		$	443,962
		Defined benefit plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis
		31-Dec-13
		Quoted prices				Significant			Significant			Total
		in active markets				other observable			unobservable
		for identical assets				inputs			inputs
		(Level 1)				(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Common collective trust funds:
	Equity index funds	$	—			$	82,440		$	—		$	82,440
	Midcap index funds	—				82,674			—			82,674
	World equity index funds	—				8,186			—			8,186
	U.S. equity market funds	—				83,209			—			83,209
	Total common collective trust funds	—				256,509			—			256,509
	Fixed maturity investments:
	U.S. government direct obligations and agencies	—				19,088			—			19,088
	Obligations of U.S. states and their municipalities	—				14,973			—			14,973
	Corporate debt securities	—				91,860			—			91,860
	Asset-backed securities	—				7,902			—			7,902
	Commercial mortgage-backed securities	—				2,647			—			2,647
	Total fixed maturity investments	—				136,470			—			136,470
	Preferred stock	700				—			—			700
	Limited partnership investments	—				—			7,557			7,557
	Money market funds	3,099				—			—			3,099
	Total defined benefit plan assets	$	3,799			$	392,979		$	7,557		$	404,335
Schedule of defined benefit retirement plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which Level 3 inputs are utilized	The following tables present additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the Company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value:
		Fair value measurements using
		significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
		limited partnership interest
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013
	Balance, January 1	$	7,557			$	6,485
	Actual return on plan assets	510				853
	Purchases	656				630
	Issuances	(609		)		(411		)
	Balance, December 31	$	8,114			$	7,557
Schedule of targets for the allocation of invested Defined Benefit Pension Plan assets	The following table presents the ranges the Company targets for the allocation of invested Defined Benefit Pension Plan assets at December 31, 2015:
		31-Dec-15
	Equity securities	30	%
	Debt securities	52	%
	Other	18	%
	Total	100	%

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of the provision for income taxes	The provision for income taxes is comprised of the following:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Current	$	80,859			$	82,878			$	89,934
	Deferred	75,044				(24,087		)		45,371
	Total income tax provision	$	155,903			$	58,791			$	135,305
Schedule of reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the Company's effective federal income tax rate	The following table presents a reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the Company’s effective federal income tax rate:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
	Statutory federal income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	Income tax effect of:
	Investment income not subject to federal tax	(1.8	)%		(4.6	)%		(2.3	)%
	Tax credits	(0.3	)%		(2.0	)%		(1.3	)%
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1	%		3.3	%		1.2	%
	Income tax contingency provisions	(1.2	)%		(0.4	)%		—	%
	Other, net	0.2	%		—	%		3.6	%
	Effective federal income tax rate	32.9	%		31.3	%		36.2	%
Schedule of reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits	A reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014				2013				2012
	Balance, beginning of year	$	21,154			$	25,850			$	32,123
	Additions to tax positions in the current year	13,931				—				6,230
	Additions to tax positions in the prior year	—				1,497				420
	Reductions to tax positions in the prior year	—				(180		)		(10,219		)
	Reductions to tax positions from statutes expiring	(8,195		)		(6,013		)		(2,704		)
	Balance, end of year	$	26,890			$	21,154			$	25,850
Schedule of tax effect of temporary differences, which give rise to the deferred tax assets and liabilities	The tax effect of temporary differences, which give rise to the deferred tax assets and liabilities, is as follows:
		December 31,
		2014								2013
		Deferred				Deferred				Deferred			Deferred
		tax asset				tax liability				tax asset			tax liability
	Policyholder reserves	$	—			$	255,926			$	—		$	253,738
	Deferred acquisition costs	2,467				—				1,008			—
	Investment assets	—				426,477				—			203,363
	Policyholder dividends	10,002				—				11,479			—
	Net operating loss carryforward	122,177				—				172,414			—
	Pension plan accrued benefit liability	84,351				—				53,937			—
	Goodwill	—				26,022				—			25,563
	Experience rated refunds	13,431				—				5,509			—
	Tax credits	149,516				—				131,052			—
	Other	11,865				—				416			—
	Total deferred taxes	$	393,809			$	708,425			$	375,815		$	482,664
Schedule of federal net operating loss carry forwards of a subsidiary	As of December 31, 2014, the subsidiary had net operating loss carry forwards expiring as follows:
	Year	Amount
	2021	$	51,677
	2022	136,796
	2023	81,693
	2028	3,390
	Total	$	273,556

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of financial information related to segments	The following tables summarize segment financial information:
		Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Revenue:
	Premium income	$	360,305	$	1,215		$	84,875		$	446,395
	Fee income	95,631		629,533			4,015			729,179
	Other revenue	—		7,506			—			7,506
	Net investment income	748,015		426,340			54,033			1,228,388
	Realized investments gains (losses), net	44,381		102,597			393			147,371
	Total revenues	1,248,332		1,167,191			143,316			2,558,839
	Benefits and expenses:
	Policyholder benefits	902,982		206,339			113,124			1,222,445
	Operating expenses	136,850		647,165			79,107			863,122
	Total benefits and expenses	1,039,832		853,504			192,231			2,085,567
	Income (loss) before income taxes	208,500		313,687			(48,915		)	473,272
	Income tax expense (benefit)	68,719		104,162			(16,978		)	155,903
	Net income (loss)	$	139,781	$	209,525		$	(31,937	)	$	317,369
		31-Dec-14
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Assets:
	Investments	$	15,928,591	$	10,621,831		$	1,772,821		$	28,323,243
	Other assets	1,283,256		855,728			142,824			2,281,808
	Separate account assets	7,247,463		20,471,381			—			27,718,844
	Assets of continuing operations	$	24,459,310	$	31,948,940		$	1,915,645		58,323,895
	Assets of discontinued operations									24,324
	Total assets									$	58,348,219
		Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Revenue:
	Premium income	$	354,202	$	3,954		$	105,937		$	464,093
	Fee income	94,037		519,842			4,365			618,244
	Other revenue	7,355		—			—			7,355
	Net investment income	688,279		351,729			51,381			1,091,389
	Realized investments gains (losses), net	19,071		(33,233		)	26			(14,136		)
	Total revenues	1,162,944		842,292			161,709			2,166,945
	Benefits and expenses:
	Policyholder benefits	921,096		196,115			114,880			1,232,091
	Operating expenses	142,141		538,209			66,971			747,321
	Total benefits and expenses	1,063,237		734,324			181,851			1,979,412
	Income (loss) before income taxes	99,707		107,968			(20,142		)	187,533
	Income tax expense (benefit)	34,265		33,240			(8,714		)	58,791
	Net income (loss)	$	65,442	$	74,728		$	(11,428	)	$	128,742
		31-Dec-13
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Assets:
	Investments	$	14,563,978	$	10,370,421		$	1,582,024		$	26,516,423
	Other assets	1,179,332		839,755			128,106			2,147,193
	Separate account assets	6,321,135		20,309,769			—			26,630,904
	Assets of continuing operations	$	22,064,445	$	31,519,945		$	1,710,130		55,294,520
	Assets of discontinued operations									29,007
	Total assets									$	55,323,527
		Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Individual		Retirement
		Markets		Services			Other			Total
	Revenue:
	Premium income	$	314,350	$	3,670		$	104,133		$	422,153
	Fee income	74,985		456,052			4,786			535,823
	Net investment income	729,885		414,114			47,552			1,191,551
	Realized investments gains (losses), net	55,959		60,726			32			116,717
	Total revenues	1,175,179		934,562			156,503			2,266,244
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	882,726		204,296			111,288			1,198,310
Operating expenses	136,895		492,427			65,193			694,515
Total benefits and expenses	1,019,621		696,723			176,481			1,892,825
Income (loss) before income taxes	155,558		237,839			(19,978		)	373,419
Income tax expense	50,869		78,150			6,286			135,305
Net income (loss)	$	104,689	$	159,689		$	(26,264	)	$	238,114

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of compensation expense related to stock-based compensation
	The compensation expense related to stock-based compensation was as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013				2012
	Lifeco Stock Plan	$	3,384		$	2,579			$	2,314
	Performance Share Unit Plan	6,263			6,860				3,658
	Total compensation expense	$	9,647		$	9,439			$	5,972
	Income tax benefits	$	2,404		$	2,732			$	1,729
Schedule of total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock-based compensation and the expected weighted-average period over which these expenses will be recognized	The following table presents the total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock-based compensation at December 31, 2014 and the expected weighted average period over which these expenses will be recognized:
		Expense			Weighted
					average
					period
					(years)
	Lifeco Stock Plan	$	2,381		1.7
	Performance Share Unit Plan	3,182			1.3
Summary of status of, and changes in, the Lifeco plan options granted to employees	The following table summarizes the status of, and changes in, the Lifeco plan options granted to Company employees which are outstanding.  The options granted relate to underlying stock traded in Canadian dollars on the Toronto Stock Exchange; therefore, the amounts, which are presented in United States dollars, will fluctuate as a result of exchange rate fluctuations.
				Weighted average
		Shares		Exercise price				Remaining		Intrinsic
		under option		(Whole dollars)				contractual		value (1)
								term (Years)
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014	3,378,220		$	26.49
	Granted	539,400		26.86
	Exercised	(83,562	)	22.85
	Cancelled and expired	(40,400	)	23.82
	Outstanding, December 31, 2014	3,793,658		24.69				5.8		$	17,409
	Vested and expected to vest,	3,793,658		$	24.69			5.8		$	17,409
	31-Dec-14
	Exercisable, December 31, 2014	2,533,642		$	25.14			4.8		$	10,877
	(1) The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on December 31, 2014 and the exercise price of the option (only if the result is positive) multiplied by the number of options.
Schedule of additional information regarding stock options under the Lifeco plan	The following table presents additional information regarding stock options under the Lifeco plan:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013				2012
	Weighted average fair value of options granted	$	5.53		$	4.56			$	3.47
	Intrinsic value of options exercised (1)	401			1,437				1,397
	Fair value of options vested	4,491			1,843				1,740
	(1) The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the option multiplied by the number of options exercised.
Schedule of weighted average assumptions	The fair value of the options granted during was estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
	Dividend yield	3.95	%	4.53	%		5.31	%
	Expected volatility	26.63	%	26.73	%		25.65	%
	Risk free interest rate	1.75	%	1.38	%		1.52	%
	Expected duration (years)	6		6			6
Summary of the status of, and changes in, the Performance Share Unit Plan units granted to employees	The following table summarizes the status of, and changes in, the Performance Share Unit Plan units granted to Company employees which are outstanding:
		Performance
		Units
	Outstanding, January 1, 2014	555,438
	Granted	160,021
	Forfeited	(4,774	)
	Exercised	(189,390	)
	Outstanding, December 31, 2014	521,295
	Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2014	521,295

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of estimated future contractual obligations	he following table summarizes the Company’s future purchase obligations and commitments:
		Payment due by period
		Less than		One to		Three to		More than		Total
		one year		three years		five years		five years
	Related party long-term debt - principal (1)	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	528,400	$	528,400
	Related party long-term debt - interest (2)	37,031		74,062		74,062		827,007		1,012,162
	Investment purchase obligations (3)	166,356		—		—		—		166,356
	Operating leases (4)	10,699		14,303		11,668		8,074		44,744
	Other liabilities (5)	36,358		32,860		33,346		42,054		144,618
	Total	$	250,444	$	121,225	$	119,076	$	1,405,535	$	1,896,280
	(1) Related party long-term debt principal - Represents contractual maturities of principal due to the Company’s parent, GWL&A Financial, under the terms of two long-term surplus notes.  The amounts shown in this table differ from the amounts included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet because the amounts shown above do not consider the discount upon the issuance of one of the surplus notes.
	(2) Related party long-term debt interest - One long-term surplus note bears interest at a fixed rate through maturity.  The second surplus note bears interest initially at a fixed rate that will change in the future based upon the then current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate.  The interest payments shown in this table are calculated based upon the contractual rates in effect on December 31, 2014 and do not consider the impact of future interest rate changes.
	(3)  Investment purchase obligations - The Company makes commitments to fund partnership interests, mortgage loans on real estate and other investments in the normal course of its business.  As the timing of the fulfillment of the commitment to fund partnership interests cannot be predicted, such obligations are presented in the less than one year category.  The timing of the funding of mortgage loans on real estate is based on the expiration date of the commitment. The amounts of these unfunded commitments at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $166,356 and $196,933, of which $4,997 and $7,498 was related to cost basis limited partnership interests, respectively, all of which is due within one year from the dates indicated.
	(4)  Operating leases - The Company is obligated to make payments under various non-cancelable operating leases, primarily for office space. Contractual provisions exist that could increase the lease obligations presented, including operating expense escalation clauses. Management does not consider the impact of any such clauses to be material to the Company’s operating lease obligations. The Company incurred rent expense, net of sublease income, of $7,628, $5,439 and $5,764 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively and is recorded in general insurance expense. The Company’s total future operating lease obligation will be reduced by minimum reimbursement of $9,953 due in the future under non-cancelable agreements.
	From time to time, the Company enters into agreements or contracts, including capital leases, to purchase goods or services in the normal course of its business.  However, these agreements and contracts are not material and are excluded from the table above.
	(5)   Other liabilities - Other liabilities include those other liabilities which represent contractual obligations not included elsewhere in the table above.  If the timing of the payment of any other liabilities was sufficiently uncertain, the amounts were included in the less than one year category.  Other liabilities presented in the table above include:
	·                  Expected contributions to the Company’s defined benefit pension plan and benefit payments for the Post-Retirement Medical Plan and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan through 2021.
	·                  Miscellaneous purchase obligations to acquire goods and services.
	·                  Unrecognized tax benefits

Organization_and_Significant_A2

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investments
Initial minimum collateral as a percentage of fair value of domestic securities loaned	102.00%
Initial minimum collateral as a percentage of fair value of foreign securities loaned	105.00%
Cash
Book overdrafts, included in other liabilities	$1,788,000	$13,840,000
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross [Abstract]
Capitalized internal use software development costs, net of accumulated amortization	66,012,000	50,134,000
Internal use software development costs capitalized	31,473,000	14,640,000	17,593,000
Life insurance and annuity future benefits
Life insurance and annuity future benefits with life contingencies	15,349,322,000	14,296,153,000
Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies	10,569,147,000	10,263,043,000
Participating business
Participating life and annuity policy benefit liabilities	6,804,898,000	6,754,435,000
Participating business as a percentage of individual life insurance in-force	9.00%	9.00%
Participating business income as a percentage of individual life insurance premium income	21.00%	32.00%	20.00%
Minimum
Other intangible assets
Useful life of other intangible assets	2 years
Minimum | Internal use software
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross [Abstract]
Useful life of internal use software	5 years
Maximum
Other intangible assets
Useful life of other intangible assets	18 years
Life insurance and annuity future benefits
Life insurance and annuity future benefits with life contingencies	$4,500,000
Maximum | Internal use software
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross [Abstract]
Useful life of internal use software	7 years
Weighted average
Other intangible assets
Useful life of other intangible assets	15 years

Acquisition_Details

Acquisition (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014		Aug. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012
								lawsuit
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill	$137,683,000		$137,683,000		$105,255,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Goodwill	137,683,000		137,683,000		105,255,000
J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill	32,428,000	[1]	32,428,000	[1]		50,249,000	[1]
Other intangible assets	16,291,000	[2]	16,291,000	[2]		0	[2]
Fixed assets	12,680,000	[3]	12,680,000	[3]		12,680,000	[3]
Accounts receivable	24,155,000	[4]	24,155,000	[4]		24,050,000	[4]
Other	1,102,000	[4]	1,102,000	[4]		1,224,000	[4]
Total other assets	37,937,000		37,937,000			37,954,000
Total assets acquired and goodwill	86,656,000		86,656,000			88,203,000
Accrued expenses and other	26,880,000	[4]	26,880,000	[4]		26,108,000	[4]
Contingent consideration	32,209,000	[5]	32,209,000	[5]		33,739,000	[5]
Total liabilities assumed and contingent consideration	59,089,000		59,089,000			59,847,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Goodwill	-17,821,000	[1]
Other intangible assets	16,291,000	[2]
Fixed assets	0	[3]
Accounts receivable	105,000	[4]
Other	-122,000	[4]
Total other assets	-17,000
Total assets acquired and goodwill	-1,547,000
Accrued expenses and other	772,000	[4]
Contingent consideration	-1,530,000	[5]
Total other liabilities	-758,000
Total liabilities assumed and contingent consideration	-758,000
Goodwill	32,428,000	[1]	32,428,000	[1]		50,249,000	[1]
Discount rate			3.00%
Business Combination, Period After Close of Acquisition			24 months
Minimum contingent consideration potential earnout payment								0
Maximum contingent consideration potential earnout payment	50,000,000		50,000,000
Contingent consideration	32,209,000	[5]	32,209,000	[5]		33,739,000	[5]
Number of pending lawsuits								4
Revenue from acquired entity from date of acquisition			54,267,000
Net loss from acquired entity from date of acquisition			3,416,000
Acquisition costs	2,859,000		2,859,000
Retirement Services segment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill	137,683,000		137,683,000		105,255,000				105,255,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Goodwill	137,683,000		137,683,000		105,255,000				105,255,000
Retirement Services segment | J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill								32,428,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Goodwill								$32,428,000
Noncompete agreements | J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Discount rate			14.00%
Customer relationships | J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract]
Discount rate			14.00%
[1]	GoodwillGoodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the net assets recognized and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired and liabilities assumed that could not be individually identified (Level 3). Total goodwill resulting from the acquisition, in the amount of $32,428, is allocated to the Retirement Services segment. No portion of goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
[2]	Other Intangible Assets Other intangible assets include customer relationships and non-competition intangible assets. The fair value of the customer relationships intangible asset was determined using the excess earnings method under the income approach (Level 3). This valuation method is based on first forecasting revenue for the existing customer base and then applying expected attrition rates. The operating cash flows are calculated by determining the cost required to generate revenue from the existing customer base. Key assumptions include projections of revenues generated from existing customers which includes an estimated rate of attrition, projections of operating expenses, and a discount rate of 14%. The fair value of the non-competition intangible asset was determined using the with and without method under the income approach (Level 3). The premise associated with this valuation approach is that the value of an asset is represented by the differences in the subject businessb cash flows under scenarios where a) the asset is present and is used in operations; and b) the asset is absent and not used in operations. Such differences may arise due to additional revenue and/or cost savings associated with having the asset in place. Cash flow differentials are then discounted to present value to arrive at an estimate of fair value for the asset. Key assumptions include projected cash flows with the non-competition agreement in place, projected cash flows without the non-competition agreement in place, the expected time period under which the cash flow differences would occur, the probability of competition and success and a discount rate of 14%.
[3]	Fixed AssetsThe fair value of property, plant and equipment and software was determined using a cost approach and a market approach (LevelB 2). The cost approach is based on current replacement cost and/or reproduction costs of the assets as new less depreciation attributable to physical, functional and economic factors. The market approach is based on market data for similar assets.
[4]	Accounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilitiesAccounts receivable, other assets and accrued expenses and other liabilities are current assets and liabilities that are generally carried at fair value which is approximated from the carrying value (Level 2).
[5]	Contingent consideration In addition to the cash paid during 2014, the Company is obligated to make an additional earnout payment based on the retention of aggregated revenue, as defined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement, 24 months after the close date. As such, the remaining earnout payment is due on August 29, 2016. The potential undiscounted amount of the earnout payment that the Company could be required to make under the contingent consideration arrangement is between zero and $50,000. The fair value of the contingent consideration of $32,209 was estimated by a discounted cash flow model (Level 3) which calculates the present value of a probability-weighted earnout using a discount rate of 3%.

Related_Party_Transactions_Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 15, 2004	19-May-06	Jan. 02, 2013
Related party transactions
Reinsurance receivable	$529,921,000		$502,471,000
Future policy benefits	25,968,411,000		24,609,155,000
Premium income, net of related party premiums ceded of $13,901, $(30,114) and $18,112	71,453,000		137,785,000		85,873,000
Related party premiums ceded	13,901,000		-30,114,000		18,112,000
Life and other policy benefits, net of reinsurance recoveries of $4,594, $(536) and $12,562	209,102,000		216,809,000		215,880,000
Reinsurance recoveries	4,594,000		-536,000		12,562,000
Decrease in future policy benefits	-46,915,000		-2,556,000		-39,439,000
Due from parent and affiliates	47,193,000		91,057,000
Due to parent and affiliates	547,266,000		541,793,000
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Total	29,781,000		26,036,000		22,213,000
Affiliated Entity
Related party transactions
Future policy benefits	1,812,077,000		1,887,182,000
The Canada Life Assurance Company (CLAC), Great-West Life, MAM Holding, and Putnam
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Provides corporate support service	-2,055,000		-1,971,000		-1,698,000
The Canada Life Assurance Company (CLAC), Great-West Life, and Putnam
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Receives corporate support services	-4,053,000		-2,556,000		-2,610,000
CLAC and Putnam
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Related Party Transaction Investment Management and Administrative Revenue Included in Fee Income and Net Investment Income	13,956,000		10,625,000		7,677,000
London Life, LRG (US) Inc., Putnam, Thomas H. Lee Partners L.P. and CLAC
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Provides U.S. tax services	-402,000		-361,000		-352,000
Putnam
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	7,257,000		0
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Receives reimbursement from tax sharing indemnification related to state and local tax liabilities	7,506,000		8,114,000		6,206,000
Received internally developed internal use software	1,008,000		0		0
Lifeco U.S.
Related party transactions
Due from parent and affiliates	13,369,000		64,786,000
GWL&A Financial
Related party transactions
Due from parent and affiliates	32,572,000		23,396,000
Interest payable	1,012,162,000	[1]
GWL&A Financial | Surplus note
Related party transactions
Minimum multiple required to be applied on authorized control level at the time of payments of principal and interest	2.5
Interest expense attributable to related party debt obligations	37,059,000		37,059,000		37,059,000
Interest payable	4,701,000		4,701,000
GWL&A Financial | Surplus note, November 2034
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	194,446,000	[2]	194,418,000	[2]
Face amount						195,000,000
Interest rate (as a percent)	6.68%
GWL&A Financial | Surplus note, May 2046
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	333,400,000	[3]	333,400,000	[3]
Face amount	333,400,000						333,400,000
GWL&A Financial | Surplus note, May 2046 | Until May 16, 2016
Related party transactions
Interest rate (as a percent)	7.20%
GWL&A Financial | Surplus note, May 2046 | After May 16, 2016
Related party transactions
Margin added to variable rate basis (as a percent)	2.59%
Variable rate basis	three-month London Interbank Offering Rate (bLIBORb)
GWL&A Financial | Note interest, May 2014
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	4,701,000		4,701,000
Other related party receivables
Related party transactions
Due from parent and affiliates	1,252,000		2,875,000
London Life
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	1,737,000		1,722,000
Great-West Life
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	1,739,000		1,514,000
CLAC
Related party transactions
Due to parent and affiliates	3,986,000		6,038,000					3,841,000
UNITED STATES | The Canada Life Assurance Company (CLAC) and Great-West Life
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Related Party Transaction Investment Management and Administrative Revenue Included in Fee Income and Net Investment Income	1,803,000		2,586,000		2,929,000
CANADA | The Canada Life Assurance Company (CLAC), Great-West Life, and London Life
Revenue, expenses incurred and expense reimbursement from related parties for services provided
Related Party Transaction Investment Management and Administrative Revenue Included in Fee Income and Net Investment Income	$3,912,000		$4,487,000		$4,841,000
[1]	Related party long-term debt interest - One long-term surplus note bears interest at a fixed rate through maturity. The second surplus note bears interest initially at a fixed rate that will change in the future based upon the then current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate. The interest payments shown in this table are calculated based upon the contractual rates in effect on DecemberB 31, 2014 and do not consider the impact of future interest rate changes.
[2]	A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on NovemberB 15, 2004, with a face amount of $195,000 and carrying amounts of $194,446 and $194,418 at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The surplus note bears interest at the rate of 6.675% per annum, payable in arrears each MayB and November. The note matures on NovemberB 14, 2034.
[3]	A note payable to GWL&A Financial was issued as a surplus note on MayB 19, 2006, with a face amount and carrying amount of $333,400. The surplus note bears interest initially at the rate of 7.203% per annum, payable in arrears each MayB and NovemberB until MayB 16, 2016. After MayB 16, 2016, the surplus note bears an interest rate of 2.588% plus the then-current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate (bLIBORb). The surplus note is redeemable by the Company at the principal amount plus any accrued and unpaid interest after MayB 16, 2016. The note matures on MayB 16, 2046.

Related_Party_Transactions_Det1

Related Party Transactions (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
GWL&A Financial
Related party transactions
Number of letters of credit obtained for the benefit of related party	2
GWL&A Financial | First letter of credit
Related party transactions
First letter of credit	$1,168,800,000
Amount outstanding	0	0
GWL&A Financial | Second letter of credit
Related party transactions
Second letter of credit	70,000,000
CLAC
Related party transactions
Withheld assets included within reinsurance receivable	522,180,000	495,140,000
Funds Held under Reinsurance Agreements Asset Interest Rate	4.55%
Interest income	21,295,000	20,876,000	19,382,000
Affiliated entities of subsidiaries
Related party transactions
Advisory and management fee income	126,726,000	107,854,000	84,137,000
Guaranteed interest annuity contracts purchased	132,961,000	198,107,000	131,593,000
Reduction in separate account assets and liabilities	$343,471,000	$333,074,000

Related_Party_Transactions_Det2

Related Party Transactions (Details 3) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 02, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$20,162,078	$18,469,544
Policy loans	4,130,062	4,185,472
Reinsurance receivable	611,270	588,533
Investment income due and accrued	278,886	270,024
Total assets	58,348,219	55,323,527
Liabilities
Undistributed earnings on participating business	20,050	10,776
Due to parent and affiliates	547,266	541,793
Total	56,210,706	53,447,795
CLAC
Assets:
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale			44,104
Policy loans			6,468
Reinsurance receivable			-42,297
Investment income due and accrued			347
Total assets			8,622
Liabilities
Undistributed earnings on participating business			4,781
Due to parent and affiliates	3,986	6,038	3,841
Total			$8,622

Related_Party_Transactions_Det3

Related Party Transactions (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 02, 2013
Revenue:
Premium income	$446,395	$464,093	$422,153
Other revenue	7,506	7,355	0
Total revenues	2,558,839	2,166,945	2,266,244
Benefits and expenses:
Increase in future policy benefits	-56,073	5,575	-66,697
Dividends to policyholders	60,739	66,258	64,000
Total benefits and expenses	2,085,567	1,979,412	1,892,825
Participating policyholdersb net income before income taxes	473,272	187,533	373,419
Income tax expense	155,903	58,791	135,305
Provision for policyholdersb share of earnings on participating business	-1,041	-804	-580
Net income (loss)	317,369	128,742	238,114
CLAC
Revenue:
Premium income				42,297
Other revenue				7,355
Total revenues				49,652
Benefits and expenses:
Increase in future policy benefits				41,297
Dividends to policyholders				1,000
Total benefits and expenses				42,297
Participating policyholdersb net income before income taxes				7,355
Income tax expense				2,574
Participating policyholdersb income				4,781
Provision for policyholdersb share of earnings on participating business				4,781
Net income (loss)				0
Cash transferred		3,862
Number of mortgages transferred		2
Market value of investment transferred		28,959
Number of fixed maturity investments received		4
Value of fixed maturity investment received		32,821
Loss on realized investment loss		$1,041

SOI_Fixed_Maturity_AFS_and_non

SOI Fixed Maturity AFS and non-credit OTTI in AOCI (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	$18,953,144		$17,807,359
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	20,162,078		18,469,544
Fixed maturities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	18,953,144		17,807,359
Gross unrealized gains	1,310,377		970,407
Gross unrealized losses	101,443		308,222
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	20,162,078		18,469,544
OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI	-99,016	[1]	-101,184	[1]
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	3,478,153		3,044,185
Gross unrealized gains	70,597		43,827
Gross unrealized losses	1,494		23,373
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	3,547,256		3,064,639
Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	1,885,715		1,763,797
Gross unrealized gains	287,668		196,742
Gross unrealized losses	899		16,952
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,172,484		1,943,587
Foreign government securities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	2,455		2,617
Gross unrealized losses	4		14
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,451		2,603
Corporate debt securities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	11,258,517	[2]	10,454,252	[3]
Gross unrealized gains	763,036	[2]	568,261	[3]
Gross unrealized losses	82,104	[2]	223,532	[3]
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	11,939,449	[2]	10,798,981	[3]
OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI	-2,228	[1],[2]	-2,553	[1],[3]
Perpetual debt investments
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	157,742		172,054
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	131,799		143,644
Asset-backed securities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	1,263,089		1,553,510
Gross unrealized gains	149,152		131,277
Gross unrealized losses	13,702		29,150
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,398,539		1,655,637
OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI	-96,603	[1]	-98,502	[1]
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	167,793		244,723
Gross unrealized gains	7,368		8,335
Gross unrealized losses	1,932		3,473
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	173,229		249,585
OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI	-185	[1]	-129	[1]
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	886,748		731,688
Gross unrealized gains	32,556		21,951
Gross unrealized losses	1,099		11,515
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	918,205		742,124
Collateralized debt obligations
Securities available-for-sale
Amortized cost	10,674		12,587
Gross unrealized gains	0		14
Gross unrealized losses	209		213
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$10,465		$12,388
[1]	Indicates the amount of any OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI that is included in gross unrealized gains and losses. OTTI (gain) loss included in AOCI, as presented above, includes both the initial recognition of non-credit losses and the effects of subsequent increases and decreases in estimated fair value for those fixed maturity securities with previous non-credit impairment. The non-credit loss component of OTTI (gain) loss was in an unrealized gain position due to increases in estimated fair value subsequent to initial recognition of non-credit losses on such securities.
[2]	Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $157,742 and estimated fair value of $131,799.
[3]	Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $172,054 and estimated fair value of $143,644.

SOI_Fixed_Maturity_AFS_maturit

SOI Fixed Maturity AFS maturity aging (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Amortized cost
Maturing in one year or less	$567,095
Maturing after one year through five years	3,583,929
Maturing after five years through ten years	4,098,780
Maturing after ten years	5,203,246
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities	5,500,094
Total fixed maturities	18,953,144	17,807,359
Estimated fair value
Maturing in one year or less	595,521
Maturing after one year through five years	3,887,276
Maturing after five years through ten years	4,331,464
Maturing after ten years	5,636,566
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities	5,711,251
Total fixed maturities	$20,162,078	$18,469,544

SOI_Proceeds_from_sales_Detail

SOI Proceeds from sales (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Proceeds from sales	$2,705,999	[1]	$2,518,568	[1]	$2,697,809	[1]
Gross realized gains from sales	47,852		71,758		113,984
Gross realized losses from sales	$1,229		$27,792		$4,371
[1]	Includes gains (losses) on the hedged asset for fair value hedges.

SOI_Fixed_Maturity_HFT_Unreali

SOI Fixed Maturity HFT Unrealized in NII (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss)	$3,119	($9,447)	($634)

SOI_Mortgage_loans_on_real_est

SOI Mortgage loans on real estate by component (Details 3) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Mortgage loans on real estate
Principal	$3,356,374	$3,124,626
Unamortized premium (discount) and fees, net	10,086	12,519
Mortgage provision allowance	-2,890	-2,890	-2,890	-21,130
Total mortgage loans	3,363,570	3,134,255
Recorded investment of the mortgage loan portfolio by risk assessment category
Recorded investment	3,366,460	3,137,145	2,884,648
Mortgage loans on real estate | Performing
Recorded investment of the mortgage loan portfolio by risk assessment category
Recorded investment	$3,366,460	$3,137,145

SOI_Mortgage_provision_allowan

SOI Mortgage provision allowance rollforward (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Activity in the allowance for commercial mortgage loans credit losses
Beginning balance	$2,890	$2,890	$21,130
Provision increases	0	273	1,067
Charge-off	0	-273	-992
Recovery	0	0	-75
Provision decreases	0	0	-18,240
Ending balance	2,890	2,890	2,890
Allowance ending balance by basis of impairment method:
Collectively evaluated for impairment	2,890	2,890	2,890
Recorded investment balance in the mortgage loan portfolio, gross of allowance, by basis of impairment method:
Recorded investment balance in the mortgage loan portfolio, gross of allowance, by basis of impairment method	3,366,460	3,137,145	2,884,648
Individually evaluated for impairment	12,986	13,906	14,970
Collectively evaluated for impairment	$3,353,474	$3,123,239	$2,869,678

SOI_Limited_partnerships_Sec_L

SOI Limited partnerships Sec Lending Special Deposits (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Limited partnership and other corporation interests	$49,421	$79,236
Interest in various upper-tier LIHLPs (as a percent)	99.00%
Nature and activities of the VIEs and the effect on financial statements
Carrying value in relation to the activities of the VIEs	7,464	31,563
Maximum exposure to loss in relation to the activities of the VIEs	7,464	31,563
Special deposits and securities lending
Fair value of securities on deposit with governmental authorities	14,612	14,072
Securities loaned to third parties at amortized cost	15,252	28,178
Estimated fair value of securities loaned to third parties	15,423	27,166
Restricted cash received as collateral	13,741	18,534
Securities received as collateral	$2,131	$9,424

SOI_Unrealized_losses_fixed_ma

SOI Unrealized losses fixed maturities AFS (Details 6) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	position	position
Fixed maturities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	$1,561,784	$5,763,951
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	18,696	207,170
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	1,161,371	885,337
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	82,747	101,052
Total Estimated fair value	2,723,155	6,649,288
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	101,443	308,222
Additional disclosure
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position, Less than twelve months	134	458
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position, twelve months or longer	153	109
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position	287	567
Increase (decrease) in total unrealized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses	206,779
Increase in total unrealized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses (as a percent)	67.00%
Increase (decrease) in less than twelve months unrealized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses	188,474
Increase (decrease) in greater than twelve months unrealized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses	-18,305
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	566,335	2,399,373
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	503	23,156
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	74,322	5,192
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	991	217
Total Estimated fair value	640,657	2,404,565
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	1,494	23,373
Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	18,280	214,979
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	218	16,713
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	41,064	837
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	681	239
Total Estimated fair value	59,344	215,816
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	899	16,952
Foreign government securities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	2,451	2,603
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	4	14
Total Estimated fair value	2,451	2,603
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	4	14
Corporate debt securities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	836,263	2,632,093
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	16,775	144,367
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	764,528	511,376
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	65,329	79,165
Total Estimated fair value	1,600,791	3,143,469
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	82,104	223,532
Additional disclosure
Unrealized losses and OTTI over twelve months on securities (as a percent)	79.00%
Corporate debt securities | Non-investment grade
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	9,921
Perpetual debt investments
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	8,899
Asset-backed securities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	88,312	305,377
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	849	12,763
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	200,072	305,740
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	12,853	16,387
Total Estimated fair value	288,384	611,117
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	13,702	29,150
Additional disclosure
Unrealized losses and OTTI over twelve months on securities (as a percent)	16.00%
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	4,663	32,131
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	11	3,454
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	24,052	1,011
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	1,921	19
Total Estimated fair value	28,715	33,142
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	1,932	3,473
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	35,015	177,395
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	127	6,703
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	57,333	48,825
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	972	4,812
Total Estimated fair value	92,348	226,220
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	1,099	11,515
Collateralized debt obligations
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity and equity investments classified as available-for-sale
Less than twelve months, Estimated fair value	10,465	0
Less than twelve months, Unrealized loss and OTTI	209	0
Twelve months or longer, Estimated fair value	0	12,356
Twelve months or longer, Unrealized loss and OTTI	0	213
Total Estimated fair value	10,465	12,356
Total Unrealized losses and OTTI	$209	$213

SOI_OTTI_table_Details_7

SOI OTTI table (Details 7) (Fixed maturities, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fixed maturities
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$167,961	$167,788	$186,999
Initial impairments - credit loss on securities not previously impaired	0	0	4,429
Credit loss recognized on securities previously impaired	0	173	0
Due to sales, maturities, or payoffs during the period	-646	0	-23,640
Due to increases in cash flows expected to be collected that are recognized over the remaining life of the security	-47,783	0	0
Ending balance	$119,532	$167,961	$167,788

SOI_Net_investment_income_and_

SOI Net investment income and Realized gains losses (Details 8) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	$1,248,381		$1,109,747		$1,208,104
Investment expenses	-19,993		-18,358		-16,553
Net investment income	1,228,388		1,091,389		1,191,551
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized investment gains (losses)	147,371		-14,136		116,717
Fixed maturity and short-term investments
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	816,907		766,367		808,215
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized investment gains (losses)	54,219		37,312		105,675
Mortgage loans on real estate
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	149,497		147,944		138,411
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized investment gains (losses)	6,857		10,895		21,471
Policy loans
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	207,013		206,718		213,300
Limited partnership interests
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	9,128		9,131		7,566
Net interest on funds withheld balances under reinsurance agreements, related party
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	21,295		20,876		19,382
Derivative instruments
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	39,533	[1]	-44,610	[1]	16,008	[1]
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized investment gains (losses)	90,504		-62,077		-10,221
Other
Net investment income
Investment income before expenses	5,008		3,321		5,222
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized investment gains (losses)	($4,209)		($266)		($208)
[1]	Includes gains (losses) on the hedged asset for fair value hedges.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen2

Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Aggregate fair value of derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features, in case of net liability position	$141,653		$167,743
Collateral related to the derivatives	106,110		143,540
Fair value of assets required to settle the derivatives in, net liability position	35,543
Amount of unrestricted cash collateral to counterparties in the normal course of business	106,110		143,710
Net derivative gains estimated to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net income within the next twelve months	8,500
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	1,544,907		1,492,511
Net derivatives, Fair value	-100,983	[1]	-144,265	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	35,604	[1]	23,478	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	136,587	[1]	167,743	[1]
Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Average notional amount of the derivative instruments	340,262		351,579
Other forward contracts
Derivative financial instruments
Average notional amount of the derivative instruments	4,217,408		3,543,173
Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Average notional amount of the derivative instruments	732,581		608,787
Futures
Derivative financial instruments
Average notional amount of the derivative instruments	21,702		46,564
Swaption
Derivative financial instruments
Average notional amount of the derivative instruments	407,552		606,374
Derivatives designated as hedges
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	436,445		364,745
Net derivatives, Fair value	21,574	[1]	10,937	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	24,526	[1]	18,927	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	2,952	[1]	7,990	[1]
Derivatives designated as hedges | Cash flow hedges
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	358,445		286,745
Net derivatives, Fair value	20,068	[1]	5,986	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	22,889	[1]	13,829	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	2,821	[1]	7,843	[1]
Derivatives designated as hedges | Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	184,200		184,200
Net derivatives, Fair value	17,746	[1]	13,829	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	17,746	[1]	13,829	[1]
Derivatives designated as hedges | Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	174,245		102,545
Net derivatives, Fair value	2,322	[1]	-7,843	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	5,143	[1]	0	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	2,821	[1]	7,843	[1]
Derivatives designated as hedges | Fair value hedges
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	78,000		78,000
Net derivatives, Fair value	1,506	[1]	4,951	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	1,637	[1]	5,098	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	131	[1]	147	[1]
Derivatives designated as hedges | Fair value hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	78,000		78,000
Net derivatives, Fair value	1,506	[1]	4,951	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	1,637	[1]	5,098	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	131	[1]	147	[1]
Derivatives not designated as hedges
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	1,108,462		1,127,766
Net derivatives, Fair value	-122,557	[1]	-155,202	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	11,078	[1]	4,551	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	133,635	[1]	159,753	[1]
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	128,100		55,600
Net derivatives, Fair value	4,402	[1]	-2,038	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	6,246	[1]	1,454	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	1,844	[1]	3,492	[1]
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Futures on equity indices
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	5,505		3,483
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Interest rate futures
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	17,958		16,233
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Interest rate swaptions
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	293,964		494,774
Net derivatives, Fair value	271	[1]	1,176	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	271	[1]	1,176	[1]
Derivatives not designated as hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Derivative financial instruments
Notional amount	662,935		557,676
Net derivatives, Fair value	-127,230	[1]	-154,340	[1]
Asset derivatives, Fair value	4,561	[1]	1,921	[1]
Liability derivatives, Fair value	$131,791	[1]	$156,261	[1]
[1]	The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen3

Derivative Financial Instruments (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	$124,086		($115,078)		($573)
Futures on equity indices | Net investment income
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-41	[1]	-97	[1]	2	[1]
Futures on equity indices | Realized investment gains (losses)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-534	[2]	-3,396	[2]	-774	[2]
Cross-currency swaps | Net investment income
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	6,508	[1]	-3,668	[1]	8,620	[1]
Cross-currency swaps | Realized investment gains (losses)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	0	[2]	-622	[2]	-4,979	[2]
Interest rate futures | Net investment income
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-51	[1]	-458	[1]	164	[1]
Interest rate futures | Realized investment gains (losses)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	305	[2]	303	[2]	-2,641	[2]
Interest rate swaptions | Net investment income
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	2,424	[1]	3,241	[1]	862	[1]
Interest rate swaptions | Realized investment gains (losses)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-3,578	[2]	-2,828	[2]	-1,827	[2]
Other forward contracts | Realized investment gains (losses)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	94,465	[2]	-57,442	[2]	0	[2]
Cross-currency swaps | Net investment income
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	24,588	[1]	-50,111	[1]	0	[1]
Cash flow hedges
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives (Effective portion)	20,137		3,102		-18,881
Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI into net income (Effective portion)	8,408		5,130		2,919
Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives (Effective portion)	9,096		-12,285		5,220
Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps | Net investment income
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI into net income (Effective portion)	7,462	[1]	5,067	[1]	2,856	[1]
Cash flow hedges | Interest rate futures | Net investment income
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI into net income (Effective portion)	70	[1]	63	[1]	63	[1]
Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives (Effective portion)	11,041		15,387		-24,101
Derivative Instruments, Gain Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion	1,030	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Cash flow hedges | Cross-currency swaps | Realized investment gains (losses)
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives (Effective portion)	-154	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]
Gain (loss) reclassified from OCI into net income (Effective portion)	0		0		0
Fair value hedges
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-3,444	[3]	8,251	[3]	-380	[3]
Gain (loss) on hedged assets recognized in net income	3,439	[3]	-8,251	[3]	380	[3]
Hedge ineffectiveness	-5		0		0
Fair value hedges | Cross-currency swaps
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Hedge ineffectiveness	0		0		0
Fair value hedges | Cross-currency swaps | Net investment income
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	-3,444	[1]	6,342	[1]	-380	[1]
Gain (loss) on hedged assets recognized in net income	3,439	[1]	-5,308	[1]	380	[1]
Fair value hedges | Cross-currency swaps | Realized investment gains (losses)
Effect of derivative instruments in the condensed consolidated statement of income
Gain (loss) on derivatives recognized in net income	0	[2]	1,909	[2]	0	[2]
Gain (loss) on hedged assets recognized in net income	$0	[2]	($2,943)	[2]	$0	[2]
[1]	Net investment income.
[2]	Represents realized gains (losses) on closed positions recorded in realized investment gains (losses), net.
[3]	Hedge ineffectiveness of ($5), zero and zero was recognized during the year ended DecemberB 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Summary_of_Offsetting_Assets_a2

Summary of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative instruments (assets)
Gross fair value of recognized assets	$32,895	[1],[2]	$25,250	[1],[2]
Assets Gross fair value not offset in balance sheets
Financial instruments	-32,595	[2]	-25,023	[2]
Cash collateral pledged	279	[2]
Net fair value	21	[2]	227	[2]
Derivatives instrument (liabilities)
Gross fair value of recognized liabilities	140,655	[1],[3]	171,387	[1],[3]
Liabilities Gross fair value not offset in balance sheets
Financial Instruments	-32,595	[3]	-25,023	[3]
Cash collateral pledged	-105,929	[3]	-143,540	[3]
Net fair value	$2,131	[3]	$2,824	[3]
[1]	The gross fair value of derivative instruments are not netted against offsetting liabilities for presentation on the consolidated balance sheets.
[2]	The estimated fair value of derivative instrument assets is reported in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.
[3]	The estimated fair value of derivative instrument liabilities is reported in other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.

Fair_Value_Recurring_by_FV_hie

Fair Value - Recurring by FV hierarchy (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$20,162,078		$18,469,544
Fixed maturities held for trading	338,543		336,055
Short-term investments	263,501		294,287
Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	106,110		143,710
Total derivative instruments	35,604	[1]	23,478	[1]
Separate account assets	27,718,844		26,630,904
Liabilities
Payable under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	279	[2]
Total derivative instruments	136,587	[1]	167,743	[1]
Separate account liabilities	27,718,844		26,630,904
Derivative instruments designated as hedges:
Assets
Total derivative instruments	24,526	[1]	18,927	[1]
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	2,952	[1]	7,990	[1]
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges:
Assets
Total derivative instruments	11,078	[1]	4,551	[1]
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	133,635	[1]	159,753	[1]
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	6,246	[1]	1,454	[1]
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	1,844	[1]	3,492	[1]
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Interest rate swaptions
Assets
Total derivative instruments	271	[1]	1,176	[1]
Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	4,561	[1]	1,921	[1]
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	131,791	[1]	156,261	[1]
U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	3,547,256		3,064,639
Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,172,484		1,943,587
Foreign government securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,451		2,603
Corporate debt securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	11,939,449	[3]	10,798,981	[4]
Asset-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,398,539		1,655,637
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	173,229		249,585
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	918,205		742,124
Collateralized debt obligations
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	10,465		12,388
Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Assets
Short-term investments	156,935		254,378
Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	106,901		143,710
Separate account assets	16,146,057		14,861,680
Total assets	16,423,634		15,278,302
Liabilities
Payable under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	791
Separate account liabilities	15	[5]	2	[5]
Total liabilities	14,547		18,536
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	20,156,200		18,209,902
Fixed maturities held for trading	338,543		336,055
Short-term investments	106,566		39,909
Total derivative instruments	35,604		23,478
Separate account assets	11,572,787		11,769,224
Total assets	32,209,700		30,378,568
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	136,587		167,743
Separate account liabilities	217,712	[5]	166,325	[5]
Total liabilities	354,299		334,068
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivative instruments designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	19,383		18,927
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	131		147
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivative instruments designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	5,143
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	2,821		7,843
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	6,246		1,454
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	1,844		3,492
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Interest rate swaptions
Assets
Total derivative instruments	271		1,176
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	4,561		1,921
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	131,791		156,261
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	3,547,256		3,064,639
Fixed maturities held for trading	279,602		236,000
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,172,484		1,943,587
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Foreign government securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,451		2,603
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Corporate debt securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	11,933,607		10,792,329
Fixed maturities held for trading	57,850		58,171
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Asset-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,398,503		1,402,679
Fixed maturities held for trading			40,858
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Residential mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	173,229		249,585
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	918,205		742,124
Fixed maturities held for trading	1,091		1,026
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Collateralized debt obligations
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	10,465		12,356
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	5,878		259,642
Total assets	5,878		259,642
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Corporate debt securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	5,842		6,652
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Asset-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	36		252,958
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Collateralized debt obligations
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	0		32
Recurring basis | Total
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	20,162,078		18,469,544
Fixed maturities held for trading	338,543		336,055
Short-term investments	263,501		294,287
Collateral under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	106,901		143,710
Total derivative instruments	35,604		23,478
Separate account assets	27,718,844		26,630,904
Total assets	48,639,212		45,916,512
Liabilities
Payable under securities lending agreements	13,741		18,534
Collateral under derivative counterparty collateral agreements	791
Total derivative instruments	136,587		167,743
Separate account liabilities	217,727	[5]	166,327	[5]
Total liabilities	368,846		352,604
Recurring basis | Total | Derivative instruments designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	19,383		18,927
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	131		147
Recurring basis | Total | Derivative instruments designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	5,143
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	2,821		7,843
Recurring basis | Total | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	6,246		1,454
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	1,844		3,492
Recurring basis | Total | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Interest rate swaptions
Assets
Total derivative instruments	271		1,176
Recurring basis | Total | Derivative instruments not designated as hedges: | Cross-currency swaps
Assets
Total derivative instruments	4,561		1,921
Liabilities
Total derivative instruments	131,791		156,261
Recurring basis | Total | U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	3,547,256		3,064,639
Fixed maturities held for trading	279,602		236,000
Recurring basis | Total | Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,172,484		1,943,587
Recurring basis | Total | Foreign government securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	2,451		2,603
Recurring basis | Total | Corporate debt securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	11,939,449		10,798,981
Fixed maturities held for trading	57,850		58,171
Recurring basis | Total | Asset-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	1,398,539		1,655,637
Fixed maturities held for trading			40,858
Recurring basis | Total | Residential mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	173,229		249,585
Recurring basis | Total | Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	918,205		742,124
Fixed maturities held for trading	1,091		1,026
Recurring basis | Total | Collateralized debt obligations
Assets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	$10,465		$12,388
[1]	The estimated fair value excludes accrued income and expense. The estimated fair value of all derivatives in an asset position is reported within other assets and the estimated fair value of all derivatives in a liability position is reported within other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
[2]	The estimated fair value of derivative instrument assets is reported in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Derivative transactions entered into under ISDA master agreements include income and expense accruals.
[3]	Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $157,742 and estimated fair value of $131,799.
[4]	Includes perpetual debt investments with amortized cost of $172,054 and estimated fair value of $143,644.
[5]	Includes only separate account instruments which are carried at the fair value of the underlying liabilities owned by the separate accounts.

Fair_Value_Recurring_basis_Lev

Fair Value - Recurring basis Level 3 rollforward (Details 2) (Recurring basis, Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
Balance at the beginning of the period	$259,642		$267,392		$317,657
Net income	-17				-3,758
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-193		34,526		37,063
Sales					-3,595
Settlements	-651		-48,108		-42,717
Transfers into Level 3			5,832	[1]
Transfers out of Level 3	-252,903	[2]			-37,258	[2]
Balance at the end of the period	5,878		259,642		267,392
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0		0		0
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Corporate debt securities
Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
Balance at the beginning of the period	6,652		1,822		36,496
Net income	0				-66
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-178		-240		102
Sales					-1,598
Settlements	-632		-762		-874
Transfers into Level 3			5,832	[1]
Transfers out of Level 3	0	[2]			-32,238	[2]
Balance at the end of the period	5,842		6,652		1,822
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0		0		0
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities
Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
Balance at the beginning of the period	252,958		265,538		279,021
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0		34,766		33,346
Settlements	-19		-47,346		-41,809
Transfers out of Level 3	-252,903	[2]			-5,020	[2]
Balance at the end of the period	36		252,958		265,538
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0		0		0
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Collateralized debt obligations
Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
Balance at the beginning of the period	32		32		22
Net income	-17
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-15		0		11
Settlements					-1
Balance at the end of the period	0		32		32
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0		0		0
Separate accounts
Recurring Level 3 financial assets and liabilities
Balance at the beginning of the period					2,118
Net income					-3,692
Other comprehensive income (loss)					3,604
Sales					-1,997
Settlements					-33
Balance at the end of the period					0
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss)					$0
[1]	Transfers into Level 3 are due primarily to decreased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies.
[2]	Transfers out of Level 3 are due primarily to increased observability of inputs in valuation methodologies as evidenced by corroboration of market prices with multiple pricing vendors and internal models.

Fair_Value_Level_3_unobservabl

Fair Value Level 3 unobservable inputs (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2014
Significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	18,469,544		$20,162,078
Recurring basis | Level 3
Significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	259,642		5,878
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Internal model pricing | Weighted average
Unobservable Input
Prepayment speed assumption	9.00%
Constant default rate assumption	5.00%
Adjusted Asset Backed Securities Index	4.55%	[1]
Internally calculated liquidity premium adjustment included in Adjusted ABX Index spread assumption	2.17%
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Internal model pricing | Minimum
Unobservable Input
Adjusted Asset Backed Securities Index	3.27%
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Internal model pricing | Maximum
Unobservable Input
Adjusted Asset Backed Securities Index	6.47%
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Level 3 | Internal model pricing
Significant unobservable inputs used during the valuation of assets categorized within Level 3 of the recurring fair value measurements table
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale	252,902	[2]
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Level 3 | Internal model pricing | Minimum
Unobservable Input
Constant default rate assumption	2.00%
Fixed maturities available-for-sale, Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Level 3 | Internal model pricing | Maximum
Unobservable Input
Constant default rate assumption	12.90%
[1]	Includes an internally calculated liquidity premium adjustment of 217.
[2]	Includes home improvement loans only.

Fair_Value_Nonrecurring_measur

Fair Value Non-recurring measurement (Details 4) (Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring, Level 3, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring | Level 3
Non-recurring fair value measurements
Cost Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	$9,242	$0

Fair_Value_Recurring_not_carri

Fair Value Recurring not carried at FV (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets
Mortgage loans on real estate	$3,363,570	$3,134,255
Policy loans	4,130,062	4,185,472
Liabilities
Policyholdersb funds	335,484	345,689
Commercial paper	98,589	98,990
Notice required to change policyholders' funds interest crediting rate	30 days
Minimum
Liabilities
Estimated liquidation period of underlying assets of the funds	1 year
Maximum
Liabilities
Estimated liquidation period of underlying assets of the funds	10 years
Estimated fair value
Assets
Mortgage loans on real estate	3,558,111	3,197,292
Policy loans	4,130,062	4,185,472
Limited partnership interests	41,853	42,433
Other investments	43,263	42,814
Liabilities
Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies	10,563,477	9,986,464
Policyholdersb funds	335,484	345,689
Commercial paper	98,589	98,990
Notes payable	564,904	541,918
Carrying amount
Assets
Mortgage loans on real estate	3,363,570	3,134,255
Policy loans	4,130,062	4,185,472
Limited partnership interests	38,796	44,551
Other investments	15,614	16,643
Liabilities
Annuity contract benefits without life contingencies	10,569,147	10,263,043
Policyholdersb funds	335,484	345,689
Commercial paper	98,589	98,990
Notes payable	$532,547	$532,519

Minimum_Guarantees_Details

Minimum Guarantees (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Fair value of assets supporting separate accounts	$27,718,844	$26,630,904
Equity securities
Schedule of Fair Value of Separate Accounts by Major Category of Investment [Line Items]
Fair value of assets supporting separate accounts	$60,368	$61,137

Minimum_Guarantees_Assumptions

Minimum Guarantees - Assumptions and Methodologies Used to Determine GMDB (Details) (Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit)	Dec. 31, 2014
	Scenario
Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Data used (number of scenarios)	1,050
Discount rates	5.00%
Regular Equity
Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Mean investment performance	10.00%
Volatility	23.00%
Aggressive Equity
Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Mean investment performance	12.00%
Volatility	33.00%
Fixed, Bond, Money Market
Long-Duration Contracts, Assumptions by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Mean investment performance	3.00%

Minimum_Guarantees_Separate_Ac

Minimum Guarantees - Separate Account Liabilities for GMDB (Details) (Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit
Net Amount at Risk by Product and Guarantee [Line Items]
Separate account liability	$60,388	$61,140
Net amount at risk, net of reinsurance	$30,095	$32,032
Weighted average attained age	69 years	69 years

Minimum_Guarantees_Amounts_Pai

Minimum Guarantees - Amounts Paid and Incurred for GMDB (Details) (Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balances, January 1,	$5,993	$6,928	$7,954
Incurred guaranteed benefits	305	-135	-613
Paid guaranteed benefits	-732	-800	-413
Balances, December 31,	$5,566	$5,993	$6,928

Reinsurance_Details

Reinsurance (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 02, 2013
	counterparty
Insurance [Abstract]
Initial maximum coverage, per individual life retained	$3,500,000
Maximum annual growth due to automatic policy increases in coverage, per annum	175,000
Overall maximum growth due to automatic increase in coverage	1,000,000
Reinsurance receivable	611,270,000	588,533,000
Reinsurance receivables, associated with reinsurance agreements with related parties	529,921,000	502,471,000
Number of insurers and reinsurers from whom risk is assumed, in counterparties	40
Life insurance in-force and total premium income
Life insurance and annuity future benefits with life contingencies	15,349,322,000	14,296,153,000
Life insurance in-force
Written and earned direct	94,104,689,000	92,180,904,000
Reinsurance ceded	-9,773,885,000	-9,512,583,000
Reinsurance assumed	61,911,865,000	66,209,732,000
Net	146,242,669,000	148,878,053,000
Percentage of amount assumed to net	42.00%	44.00%
Premium income
Net	446,395,000	464,093,000	422,153,000
Life and other policy benefits, reinsurance recoveries	23,965,000	34,716,000	46,492,000
Maximum
Life insurance in-force and total premium income
Life insurance and annuity future benefits with life contingencies	4,500,000
CLAC
Insurance [Abstract]
Reinsurance receivable				-42,297,000
Life insurance in-force and total premium income
Total reinsurance receivable due from CLAC, a related party (as a percent)	87.00%	85.00%
Premium income
Net				42,297,000
Individual
Life insurance in-force
Written and earned direct	52,836,475,000	51,660,487,000
Reinsurance ceded	-9,773,885,000	-9,512,583,000
Reinsurance assumed	61,911,865,000	66,209,732,000
Net	104,974,455,000	108,357,636,000
Percentage of amount assumed to net	59.00%	61.00%
Group
Life insurance in-force
Written and earned direct	41,268,214,000	40,520,417,000
Reinsurance ceded		0
Reinsurance assumed		0
Net	41,268,214,000	40,520,417,000
Percentage of amount assumed to net	0.00%	0.00%
Premium Income
Premium income
Written and earned direct	362,214,000	319,100,000	326,948,000
Reinsurance ceded	-46,020,000	-1,426,000	-50,302,000
Reinsurance assumed	130,201,000	146,419,000	145,507,000
Net	446,395,000	464,093,000	422,153,000
Life insurance
Premium income
Written and earned direct	360,959,000	315,100,000	323,236,000
Reinsurance ceded	-45,925,000	-1,338,000	-53,950,000
Reinsurance assumed	130,201,000	146,419,000	145,507,000
Net	445,235,000	460,181,000	414,793,000
Annuities
Premium income
Written and earned direct	1,255,000	4,000,000	3,712,000
Reinsurance ceded	-95,000	-88,000	3,648,000
Net	$1,160,000	$3,912,000	$7,360,000

Deferred_Acquisition_Costs_and2

Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 01, 2013
DAC
Balance at the beginning of the period	$314,071	$172,416	$177,781
Capitalized additions	110,315	80,486	94,826
Amortization and writedowns	-41,045	-55,490	-51,434
Unrealized investment (gains) losses	-29,933	71,601	-48,757
Balance at the end of the period	353,408	314,071	172,416
VOBA
Balance at the beginning of the period	29,217	32,045	42,052
Amortization and writedowns	-3,801	-4,155	-9,045
Unrealized investment (gains) losses	-130	1,327	-962
Balance at the end of the period	25,286	29,217	32,045
Total
Balance at the beginning of the period	343,288	204,461	219,833
Capitalized additions	110,315	80,486	94,826
Amortization and writedowns	-44,846	-59,645	-60,479
Unrealized investment (gains) losses	-30,063	72,928	-49,719
Balance at the end of the period	378,694	343,288	204,461
Estimated future amortization of VOBA
Estimated future amortization of VOBA in 2015	3,900
Estimated future amortization of VOBA in 2016	3,900
Estimated future amortization of VOBA in 2017	3,900
Estimated future amortization of VOBA in 2018	3,900
Estimated future amortization of VOBA in 2019	3,900
Correction
DAC
Balance at the beginning of the period		45,058		45,058
Balance at the end of the period				45,058
VOBA
Balance at the beginning of the period		0		0
Balance at the end of the period				0
Total
Balance at the beginning of the period		45,058		45,058
Balance at the end of the period				$45,058

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, December 31	$137,683		$105,255
Retirement Services segment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balances, January 1	105,255		105,255
Acquisitions	32,428	[1]	0	[1]
Balances, December 31	$137,683		$105,255
[1]	2014, the Company acquired goodwill of $32,428 from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 29, 2014
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Net book value	$27,915,000		$15,155,000
Amortization expense included in general insurance expenses	3,531,000		3,094,000	3,606,000
Intangible assets with indefinite lives	0
Future amortization of other intangible assets
2015	3,200,000
2016	3,200,000
2017	3,200,000
2018	3,200,000
2019	3,200,000
Retirement Services segment
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Gross carrying amount	52,605,000
Accumulated amortization	-24,690,000
Net book value	27,915,000
Retirement Services segment | Customer relationships
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Gross carrying amount	51,280,000	[1]	36,314,000		14,966,000	[1]
Accumulated amortization	-24,481,000	[1]	-21,159,000
Net book value	26,799,000	[1]	15,155,000
Retirement Services segment | NonCompete
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Gross carrying amount	1,325,000	[1]			1,325,000	[1]
Accumulated amortization	-209,000	[1]
Net book value	$1,116,000	[1]
[1]	2014, the Company acquired $14,966 and $1,325 of customer relationship and non-competition intangible assets, respectively, from the acquisition of RPS. See Note 2 for additional discussion regarding the acquisition.

Commercial_Paper_Details

Commercial Paper (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commercial paper
Carrying value	98,589,000	98,990,000
Commercial paper
Commercial paper
Maximum commercial paper support available under the corporate credit facility	50,000,000
Face value	98,589,000	98,990,000
Carrying value	98,589,000	98,990,000
Effective interest rate (as a percent)	0.20%
Commercial paper | Minimum
Commercial paper
Effective interest rate (as a percent)		0.20%
Maturity range	7 days	2 days
Commercial paper | Maximum
Commercial paper
Effective interest rate (as a percent)		0.30%
Maturity range	27 days	22 days

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide2

Stockholder's Equity and Dividend Restrictions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common stock, shares issued	7,032,000	7,032,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	7,032,000	7,032,000
Net income and capital and surplus, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Net income	$134,091	$175,292	$147,741
Capital and surplus	1,000,938	1,200,609
Percentage of ACL as minimum level of TAC before corrective action commences	200.00%
Dividends paid to the parent company, GWL&A Financial	316,401	102,436	184,401
Dividends available for distribution without prior approval	209,163
Colorado Division of Insurance
Net income and capital and surplus, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting principles and practices as prescribed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Capital and surplus	2,000
Net gain from operations	$209,163

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Det

Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$345,754		$635,699		$469,982
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	288,713		-272,593		229,582
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	-31,449		-17,352		-63,865
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	257,264	[1]	-289,945	[1]	165,717	[1]
Balance at the end of the period	603,018		345,754		635,699
Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	434,023		927,678		646,805
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	381,198		-467,178		347,118
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	-31,038		-26,477		-66,245
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	350,160		-493,655		280,873
Balance at the end of the period	784,183		434,023		927,678
Unrealized holding gains / losses arising on cash flow hedged
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	25,517		24,962		41,003
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	13,089		2,016		-12,273
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	-5,465		-1,461		-3,768
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	7,624		555		-16,041
Balance at the end of the period	33,141		25,517		24,962
Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	-70,000		-194,147		-139,655
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-38,194		124,147		-54,492
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-38,194		124,147		-54,492
Balance at the end of the period	-108,194		-70,000		-194,147
Employee benefit plan adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	-43,786		-122,794		-78,171
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-67,380		68,422		-50,771
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	5,054		10,586		6,148
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	-62,326		79,008		-44,623
Balance at the end of the period	($106,112)		($43,786)		($122,794)
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the non-credit component of impaired losses on fixed maturities available-for-sale, net of future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments and income taxes, in the amounts of $177, $18,388 and $26,583 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Det1

Other Comprehensive Income (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Before-tax amount
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on available-for-sale fixed maturity investments	$586,458		($718,735)		$534,028
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on cash flow hedges	20,137		3,102		-18,881
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	-56,159		-42,982		-107,713
Net unrealized gains (losses) related to investments	550,436		-758,615		407,434
Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	-58,760		190,995		-83,835
Net unrealized gains (losses)	491,676		-567,620		323,599
Employee benefit plan adjustment	-95,886		121,551		-68,650
Other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes	395,790		-446,069		254,949
Tax (expense) benefit
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on available-for-sale fixed maturity investments	-205,260		251,557		-186,910
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on cash flow hedges	-7,048		-1,086		6,608
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	19,656		15,044		37,700
Net unrealized gains (losses)	-192,652		265,515		-142,602
Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	20,566		-66,848		29,343
Net unrealized gains (losses)	-172,086		198,667		-113,259
Employee benefit plan adjustment	33,560		-42,543		24,027
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-138,526		156,124		-89,232
Net-of-tax amount
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on available-for-sale fixed maturity investments	381,198		-467,178		347,118
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period on cash flow hedges	13,089		2,016		-12,273
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses realized in net income	-36,503		-27,938		-70,013
Net unrealized gains (losses)	357,784		-493,100		264,832
Future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments	-38,194		124,147		-54,492
Net unrealized gains (losses)	319,590		-368,953		210,340
Employee benefit plan adjustment	-62,326		79,008		-44,623
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	$257,264	[1]	($289,945)	[1]	$165,717	[1]
[1]	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes the non-credit component of impaired losses on fixed maturities available-for-sale, net of future policy benefits, DAC and VOBA adjustments and income taxes, in the amounts of $177, $18,388 and $26,583 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Other_Comprehensive_Income_Det2

Other Comprehensive Income (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Other realized investment (gains) losses, net	($151,705)		$13,330		($121,916)
Net investment income	-1,228,388		-1,091,389		-1,191,551
Net of tax	31,449		17,352		63,865
Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net of tax	-31,449		-17,352
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net of tax	31,038		26,477		66,245
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on fixed maturities, available-for-sale | Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Other realized investment (gains) losses, net	-47,751		-40,734
Total before tax	-47,751		-40,734
Tax expense or benefit	-16,713		-14,257
Net of tax	-31,038		-26,477
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on cash flow hedges
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net of tax	5,465		1,461		3,768
Unrealized holdings (gains) losses arising on cash flow hedges | Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net investment income	-8,408		-2,248
Total before tax	-8,408		-2,248
Tax expense or benefit	-2,943		-787
Net of tax	-5,465		-1,461
Amortization of employee benefit plan items
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net of tax	-5,054		-10,586		-6,148
Amortization of employee benefit plan items | Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Total before tax	7,776		16,286
Tax expense or benefit	2,722		5,700
Net of tax	5,054		10,586
Prior service costs (benefits)	3,189	[1]	-666	[1]
Actuarial gains (losses)	2,730	[1]	16,952	[1]
Settlement	$1,857	[1]	$0	[1]
[1]	These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic (benefit) cost of employee benefit plans (see Note 17 for additional details).

General_Insurance_Expenses_Det

General Insurance Expenses (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract]
Compensation	$406,601	$359,280	$335,212
Commissions	210,797	184,238	180,529
Other	163,593	106,829	80,908
Total general insurance expenses	$780,991	$650,347	$596,649

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 29, 2014
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, January 1	$529,788	$583,294
Service cost	6,523	7,476
Interest cost	26,170	23,957
Actuarial (gain) loss	114,694	-67,063
Regular benefits paid	-32,134	-17,876
Amendment	3,342	0
Acquisition	3,311	0
Benefit obligation, December 31	651,694	529,788
Accumulated benefit obligation	625,574	505,942
Change in plan assets:
Value of plan assets, January 1	404,335	336,534
Actual return on plan assets	43,662	62,701
Employer contributions	28,099	22,976
Benefits paid	-32,134	-17,876
Value of plan assets, December 31	443,962	404,335
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, January 1	456,402	500,603
Service cost	4,952	5,527	4,350
Interest cost	23,068	20,897	20,945
Actuarial (gain) loss	113,410	-57,051
Regular benefits paid	-14,752	-13,574
Benefit obligation, December 31	583,080	456,402	500,603
Accumulated benefit obligation	562,760	440,666
Change in plan assets:
Value of plan assets, January 1	404,335	336,534
Actual return on plan assets	43,662	62,701
Employer contributions	10,717	18,674
Benefits paid	-14,752	-13,574
Value of plan assets, December 31	443,962	404,335	336,534
Post-Retirement Medical Plan
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, January 1	11,081	13,462
Service cost	985	947	817
Interest cost	574	512	569
Actuarial (gain) loss	-2,092	-3,221
Regular benefits paid	-508	-619
Amendment	-569	0
Acquisition	3,311	0
Benefit obligation, December 31	12,782	11,081	13,462
Accumulated benefit obligation	12,782	11,081
Change in plan assets:
Employer contributions	508	619
Benefits paid	-508	-619
Post-Retirement Medical Plan | J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Employees Covered				1,000
Post-Retirement Medical Plan | Other Noncurrent Liabilities With Offset To Goodwill | J.P. Morgan Retirement Plan Services (RPS)
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease)				3,311
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, January 1	62,305	69,229
Service cost	586	1,002	991
Interest cost	2,528	2,548	2,912
Actuarial (gain) loss	3,376	-6,791
Regular benefits paid	-16,874	-3,683
Amendment	3,911	0
Benefit obligation, December 31	55,832	62,305	69,229
Accumulated benefit obligation	50,032	54,195
Change in plan assets:
Employer contributions	16,874	3,683
Benefits paid	-16,874	-3,683
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Other Noncurrent Liabilities With Offset To Goodwill
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Defined Benefit Plan, Number of Employees Covered	1
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease)	$3,911

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details1

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	($207,732)	($125,453)
Information regarding amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost
Net gain (loss), gross	-163,809
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	557
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Gross	-163,252
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-106,475
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	363
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Net of tax	-106,112
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year
Net gain (loss), Gross	-12,080
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	723
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Gross	-11,357
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-7,852
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	471
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Net of tax	-7,381
Other liabilities
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-207,732	-125,453
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-163,252	-67,366
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-139,118	-52,067
Information regarding amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost
Net gain (loss), gross	-165,639
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	-13
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Gross	-165,652
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-107,665
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	-8
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Net of tax	-107,673
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year
Net gain (loss), Gross	-12,023
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	-13
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Gross	-12,036
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-7,815
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	-8
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Net of tax	-7,823
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Other liabilities
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-139,118	-52,067
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-165,652	-69,564
Post-Retirement Medical Plan
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-12,782	-11,081
Information regarding amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost
Net gain (loss), gross	10,686
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	3,704
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Gross	14,390
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	6,946
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	2,408
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Net of tax	9,354
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year
Net gain (loss), Gross	606
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	1,669
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Gross	2,275
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	394
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	1,085
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Net of tax	1,479
Post-Retirement Medical Plan | Other liabilities
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-12,782	-11,081
Post-Retirement Medical Plan | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	14,390	13,885
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-55,832	-62,305
Information regarding amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost
Net gain (loss), gross	-8,856
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	-3,134
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Gross	-11,990
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-5,756
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	-2,037
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, Net of tax	-7,793
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year
Net gain (loss), Gross	-663
Net prior service (cost) credit, Gross	-933
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Gross	-1,596
Net gain (loss), Net of tax	-431
Net prior service (cost) credit, Net of tax	-606
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit costs during the next fiscal year, Net of tax	-1,037
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Other liabilities
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-55,832	-62,305
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	($11,990)	($11,687)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details2

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	$6,523	$7,476
Interest cost	26,170	23,957
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Expected benefit payments for the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans
2015	15,670
2016	17,102
2017	18,192
2018	19,891
2019	21,285
2020 through 2024	135,763
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	4,952	5,527	4,350
Interest cost	23,068	20,897	20,945
Expected return on plan assets	-29,288	-24,499	-21,797
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	51	51	51
Amortization of loss from earlier periods	2,898	16,001	9,941
Net periodic cost	1,681	17,977	13,490
Post-Retirement Medical Plan
Expected benefit payments for the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans
2015	606
2016	547
2017	556
2018	569
2019	625
2020 through 2024	4,171
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	985	947	817
Interest cost	574	512	569
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	-1,706	-1,650	-1,650
Amortization of loss from earlier periods	-450	-348	-455
Net periodic cost	-597	-539	-719
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Expected benefit payments for the Defined Benefit Pension, Post-Retirement Medical and Supplemental Executive Retirement plans
2015	4,874
2016	3,322
2017	3,306
2018	2,834
2019	2,518
2020 through 2024	15,883
Components of net periodic cost:
Service cost	586	1,002	991
Interest cost	2,528	2,548	2,912
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	4,844	933	934
Amortization of loss from earlier periods	282	1,299	637
Settlement	1,857	0	0
Net periodic cost	$10,097	$5,782	$5,474

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details3

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 4) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Aug. 01, 2014
Impact of one-percentage-point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates
Increase (decrease) on total service and interest cost on components, One percentage point increase		254
Increase (decrease) on total service and interest cost on components, One percentage point decrease		-212
Increase (decrease) on post-retirement benefit obligation, One percentage point increase		1,722
Increase (decrease) on post-retirement benefit obligation, One percentage point decrease		-1,467
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining benefit obligations
Discount rate		4.17%	5.11%
Rate of compensation increase		4.47%	4.47%
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost
Discount rate		5.11%	4.19%
Expected return on plan assets		7.25%	7.25%
Rate of compensation increase		4.47%	3.14%
Post-Retirement Medical Plan
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining benefit obligations
Discount rate		3.94%	4.83%
Initial health care cost trend		6.50%	7.00%
Ultimate health care cost trend		5.00%	5.00%
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost
Discount rate		4.83%	3.74%
Initial health care cost trend		7.00%	7.50%
Ultimate health care cost trend		5.00%	5.25%
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Employee benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation, Percentage				21.00%
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax	1,857
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining benefit obligations
Discount rate		3.99%	4.61%
Rate of compensation increase		4.00%	4.00%
Weighted average interest rate assumptions used in determining the net periodic (benefit) cost
Discount rate		4.61%	3.79%
Rate of compensation increase		4.00%	4.00%
Other Noncurrent Liabilities With Offset To Goodwill | Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Employee benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease)		3,911

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details4

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	$443,962	$404,335
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, January 1	404,335	336,534
Actual return on plan assets	43,662	62,701
Value of plan assets, December 31	443,962	404,335
Limited partnership interests | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,114	7,557
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, January 1	7,557	6,485
Actual return on plan assets	510	853
Purchases	656	630
Issuances	-609	-411
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,114	7,557
Defined Benefit Pension Plan
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Assets (as a percent)	100.00%	100.00%
Defined benefit plan assets	443,962	404,335
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, January 1	404,335	336,534
Actual return on plan assets	43,662	62,701
Value of plan assets, December 31	443,962	404,335
Ranges of targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, minimum (as a percent)	100.00%
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, maximum (as a percent)	100.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	443,962	404,335
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	443,962	404,335
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	2,841	3,799
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	2,841	3,799
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	433,007	392,979
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	433,007	392,979
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,114	7,557
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,114	7,557
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Equity securities
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Assets (as a percent)	65.00%	63.00%
Ranges of targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, minimum (as a percent)	30.00%
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, maximum (as a percent)	30.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Debt securities
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Assets (as a percent)	33.00%	34.00%
Ranges of targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, minimum (as a percent)	52.00%
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, maximum (as a percent)	52.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Other
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Assets (as a percent)	2.00%	3.00%
Ranges of targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, minimum (as a percent)	18.00%
Targets for the allocation of invested defined benefit plan assets, maximum (as a percent)	18.00%
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Common collective trust funds: | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	286,244	256,509
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	286,244	256,509
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Common collective trust funds: | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	286,244	256,509
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	286,244	256,509
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Equity index funds | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	93,415	82,440
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	93,415	82,440
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Equity index funds | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	93,415	82,440
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	93,415	82,440
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Midcap index funds | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	90,159	82,674
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	90,159	82,674
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Midcap index funds | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	90,159	82,674
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	90,159	82,674
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | World equity index funds | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,759	8,186
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,759	8,186
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | World equity index funds | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,759	8,186
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,759	8,186
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | U.S. equity market funds | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	93,911	83,209
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	93,911	83,209
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | U.S. equity market funds | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	93,911	83,209
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	93,911	83,209
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Fixed maturities | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	146,763	136,470
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	146,763	136,470
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Fixed maturities | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	146,763	136,470
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	146,763	136,470
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	9,308	19,088
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	9,308	19,088
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | U.S. government direct obligations and U.S. agencies | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	9,308	19,088
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	9,308	19,088
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	18,838	14,973
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	18,838	14,973
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Obligations of U.S. states and their subdivisions | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	18,838	14,973
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	18,838	14,973
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Corporate debt securities | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	107,125	91,860
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	107,125	91,860
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Corporate debt securities | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	107,125	91,860
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	107,125	91,860
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,444	7,902
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,444	7,902
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Asset-backed securities | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,444	7,902
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,444	7,902
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	3,048	2,647
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	3,048	2,647
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Commercial mortgage-backed securities | Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	3,048	2,647
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	3,048	2,647
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Preferred stock | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	310	700
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	310	700
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Preferred stock | Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	310	700
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	310	700
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Limited partnership interests | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,114	7,557
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,114	7,557
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Limited partnership interests | Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	8,114	7,557
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	8,114	7,557
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Money market funds | Recurring basis
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	2,531	3,099
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	2,531	3,099
Defined Benefit Pension Plan | Money market funds | Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Details of investment out of defined benefit plan assets
Defined benefit plan assets	2,531	3,099
Additional information about assets of the Defined Benefit Retirement Plan measured at fair value on a recurring basis and for which the company has utilized Level 3 inputs to determine fair value
Value of plan assets, December 31	2,531	3,099
Post-Retirement Medical Plan
Expected payments
Expected employer contribution to the plan for the next fiscal year	606
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Expected payments
Expected employer contribution to the plan for the next fiscal year	$4,874

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Details5

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 6) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other employee benefit plans
Expense recognized related to qualified defined contribution benefit plan	$8,479	$6,693	$6,288
Key executives
Other employee benefit plans
Participant balances, reflected in other liabilities	10,051	11,240
Participant deferrals average interest rate (as a percent)	6.53%
Reference rate	Moodybs Average Annual Corporate Bond Index rate
Interest rate margin for actively employed participants (as a percent)	0.45%
Key executives | Minimum
Other employee benefit plans
Fixed rates for retired participants (as a percent)	4.67%
Key executives | Maximum
Other employee benefit plans
Fixed rates for retired participants (as a percent)	5.37%
Select group of management and highly compensated individuals
Other employee benefit plans
Participant balances, reflected in other liabilities	$16,633	$14,536

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current	$80,859	$82,878	$89,934
Deferred	75,044	-24,087	45,371
Total income tax provision	155,903	58,791	135,305
Reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective federal income tax rate from continuing operations
Statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Investment income not subject to federal tax	-1.80%	-4.60%	-2.30%
Tax credits	-0.30%	-2.00%	-1.30%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1.00%	3.30%	1.20%
Income tax contingency provisions	-1.20%	-0.40%	0.00%
Other, net	0.20%	0.00%	3.60%
Effective federal income tax rate	32.90%	31.30%	36.20%
Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits
Balance, beginning of year	21,154	25,850	32,123
Additions to tax positions in the current year	13,931	0	6,230
Additions to tax positions in the prior year	0	1,497	420
Reductions to tax positions in the prior year	0	-180	-10,219
Reductions to tax positions from statutes expiring	-8,195	-6,013	-2,704
Balance, end of year	26,890	21,154	25,850
Federal income taxes
Unrecognized tax benefits	26,890	21,154	25,850
Amount of unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, would impact the annual effective tax rate	545
Anticipated additional increase in unrecognized tax benefits, low end of range	6,000
Anticipated additional increase in unrecognized tax benefits, high end of range	7,000
Interest and penalties related to the uncertain tax positions	-2,916	-286	208
Accrued interest and penalties	$1,210	$4,126

Income_Taxes_Details_2

Income Taxes (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax asset
Deferred acquisition costs	$2,467	$1,008
Policyholder dividends	10,002	11,479
Net operating loss carryforward	122,177	172,414
Pension plan accrued benefit liability	84,351	53,937
Experience rated refunds	13,431	5,509
Tax credits	149,516	131,052
Other	11,865	416
Total deferred taxes	393,809	375,815
Deferred tax liability
Policyholder reserves	255,926	253,738
Investment assets	426,477	203,363
Goodwill	26,022	25,563
Other	0	0
Total deferred taxes	708,425	482,664
Net unrealized losses (gains) on available-for-sale investments	381,838	209,434
Subsidiary | Federal
Federal net operating loss carry forwards generated by a subsidiary
2021	51,677
2022	136,796
2023	81,693
2028	3,390
Total	$273,556

Income_Taxes_Details_3

Income Taxes (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Tax receivable
Income taxes receivable in other assets primarily related to the separate state income tax returns filed by certain subsidiaries	$7,176	$7,736
Lifeco U.S.
Tax credit carryforwards
Income taxes receivable from Lifeco	13,400	65,186
Investments in low-income housing
Tax credit carryforwards
Guaranteed Federal low Income Housing tax credit carryforwards generated	15,506	25,013	30,965
Total credit carryforward	$140,055

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenue:
Premium income	$446,395	$464,093	$422,153
Fee income	729,179	618,244	535,823
Other revenue	7,506	7,355	0
Net investment income	1,228,388	1,091,389	1,191,551
Realized investments gains (losses), net	147,371	-14,136	116,717
Total revenues	2,558,839	2,166,945	2,266,244
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	1,222,445	1,232,091	1,198,310
Operating expenses	863,122	747,321	694,515
Total benefits and expenses	2,085,567	1,979,412	1,892,825
Income (loss) before income taxes	473,272	187,533	373,419
Income tax expense (benefit)	155,903	58,791	135,305
Net income (loss)	317,369	128,742	238,114
Assets:
Investments	28,323,243	26,516,423
Other assets	2,281,808	2,147,193
Separate account assets	27,718,844	26,630,904
Assets of continuing operations	58,323,895	55,294,520
Assets of discontinued operations	24,324	29,007
Total assets	58,348,219	55,323,527
Individual Markets Segment
Revenue:
Premium income	360,305	354,202	314,350
Fee income	95,631	94,037	74,985
Other revenue	0	7,355
Net investment income	748,015	688,279	729,885
Realized investments gains (losses), net	44,381	19,071	55,959
Total revenues	1,248,332	1,162,944	1,175,179
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	902,982	921,096	882,726
Operating expenses	136,850	142,141	136,895
Total benefits and expenses	1,039,832	1,063,237	1,019,621
Income (loss) before income taxes	208,500	99,707	155,558
Income tax expense (benefit)	68,719	34,265	50,869
Net income (loss)	139,781	65,442	104,689
Assets:
Investments	15,928,591	14,563,978
Other assets	1,283,256	1,179,332
Separate account assets	7,247,463	6,321,135
Assets of continuing operations	24,459,310	22,064,445
Retirement Services Segment
Revenue:
Premium income	1,215	3,954	3,670
Fee income	629,533	519,842	456,052
Other revenue	7,506	0
Net investment income	426,340	351,729	414,114
Realized investments gains (losses), net	102,597	-33,233	60,726
Total revenues	1,167,191	842,292	934,562
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	206,339	196,115	204,296
Operating expenses	647,165	538,209	492,427
Total benefits and expenses	853,504	734,324	696,723
Income (loss) before income taxes	313,687	107,968	237,839
Income tax expense (benefit)	104,162	33,240	78,150
Net income (loss)	209,525	74,728	159,689
Assets:
Investments	10,621,831	10,370,421
Other assets	855,728	839,755
Separate account assets	20,471,381	20,309,769
Assets of continuing operations	31,948,940	31,519,945
Other Segment
Revenue:
Premium income	84,875	105,937	104,133
Fee income	4,015	4,365	4,786
Other revenue	0	0
Net investment income	54,033	51,381	47,552
Realized investments gains (losses), net	393	26	32
Total revenues	143,316	161,709	156,503
Benefits and expenses:
Policyholder benefits	113,124	114,880	111,288
Operating expenses	79,107	66,971	65,193
Total benefits and expenses	192,231	181,851	176,481
Income (loss) before income taxes	-48,915	-20,142	-19,978
Income tax expense (benefit)	-16,978	-8,714	6,286
Net income (loss)	-31,937	-11,428	-26,264
Assets:
Investments	1,772,821	1,582,024
Other assets	142,824	128,106
Assets of continuing operations	$1,915,645	$1,710,130

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail

Share-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based compensation
Total compensation expense	$9,647		$9,439		$5,972
Income tax benefits	2,404		2,732		1,729
Performance share units
Share-based compensation
Stock options vesting period	3 years
Total compensation expense	6,263		6,860		3,658
Expense	3,182
Weighted average period (years)	1 year 3 months 18 days
Cash payment in settlement of Performance Share Unit Plan Units	5,914
Status of, and changes in, the Performance Share Unit Plan units granted to employees
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	555,438
Granted (in shares)	160,021
Forfeited (in shares)	-4,774
Exercised (in shares)	-189,390
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	521,295		555,438
Vested and expected to vest (in shares)	521,295
Lifeco
Share-based compensation
Number of trading days considered for determination of average closing price of common stock	20 days
Lifeco | Option
Share-based compensation
Period preceding the date of the grant, to determine exercise price of options granted	5 days
Options exercisable, term	10 years
Maximum period that retiring option holders can continue to exercise outstanding options	5 years
Total compensation expense	3,384		2,579		2,314
Expense	2,381
Weighted average period (years)	1 year 8 months 12 days
Granted (in shares)	539,400
Compensation expense to be recognized	2,984
Shares under option
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	3,378,220
Granted (in shares)	539,400
Exercised (in shares)	-83,562
Cancelled and Expired (in shares)	-40,400
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	3,793,658		3,378,220
Vested and expected to vest at the end of the period (in shares)	3,793,658
Exercisable at the end of the period (in shares)	2,533,642
Exercise price (Whole dollars)
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$26.49
Granted (in dollars per share)	$26.86
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$22.85
Cancelled and Expired (in dollars per share)	$23.82
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$24.69		$26.49
Vested and expected to vest at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$24.69
Exercisable at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$25.14
Remaining contractual term
Outstanding, December 31, 2014	5 years 9 months 18 days
Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2014	5 years 9 months 18 days
Exercisable, December 31, 2014	4 years 9 months 18 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding, December 31, 2014	17,409	[1]
Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2014	17,409	[1]
Exercisable, December 31, 2014	10,877	[1]
Other information
Weighted average fair value of options granted (in dollars per share)	$5.53		$4.56		$3.47
Intrinsic value of options exercised	401	[2]	1,437	[2]	1,397	[2]
Fair value of options vested	$4,491		$1,843		$1,740
Weighted-average assumptions
Dividend yield	3.95%		4.53%		5.31%
Expected volatility	26.63%		26.73%		25.65%
Risk free interest rate	1.75%		1.38%		1.52%
Expected duration (years)	6 years 0 months		6 years 0 months		6 years 0 months
Lifeco | Performance share units
Share-based compensation
Number of shares considered for valuation of each stock award	1
[1]	The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on DecemberB 31, 2014 and the exercise price of the option (only if the result is positive) multiplied by the number of options.
[2]	The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the market price of Lifeco common shares on the date of exercise and the exercise price of the option multiplied by the number of options exercised.

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended				3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014
Other liabilities
Less than one year	$166,356,000		$196,933,000		$166,356,000
Total
Less than one year	166,356,000		196,933,000		166,356,000
Unfunded commitments related to cost basis limited partnership interests	4,997,000		7,498,000		4,997,000
Rent expense, net of sublease income	7,628,000		5,439,000	5,764,000
Minimum reimbursement amount due in the future	9,953,000				9,953,000
Other Letters of Credit
Total
Amount of credit facility under agreement for general corporate purposes	8,975,000				8,975,000
Revolving credit facility
Total
Amount of credit facility under agreement for general corporate purposes	50,000,000				50,000,000
Adjusted net worth required for each quarter	1,100,000,000				1,100,000,000
Amount outstanding	0		0		0
GWL&A Financial
Related party long-term debt - principal
More than five years	528,400,000	[1]			528,400,000	[1]
Total	528,400,000	[1]			528,400,000	[1]
Related party long-term debt - interest
Less than one year	37,031,000	[2]			37,031,000	[2]
One to three years	74,062,000	[2]			74,062,000	[2]
Three to five years	74,062,000	[2]			74,062,000	[2]
More than five years	827,007,000	[2]			827,007,000	[2]
Total	1,012,162,000	[2]			1,012,162,000	[2]
Investment purchase obligations
Less than one year	166,356,000	[3]			166,356,000	[3]
Total	166,356,000	[3]			166,356,000	[3]
Operating leases
Less than one year	10,699,000	[4]			10,699,000	[4]
One to three years	14,303,000	[4]			14,303,000	[4]
Three to five years	11,668,000	[4]			11,668,000	[4]
More than five years	8,074,000	[4]			8,074,000	[4]
Total	44,744,000	[4]			44,744,000	[4]
Other liabilities
Less than one year	36,358,000	[5]			36,358,000	[5]
One to three years	32,860,000	[5]			32,860,000	[5]
Three to five years	33,346,000	[5]			33,346,000	[5]
More than five years	42,054,000	[5]			42,054,000	[5]
Total	144,618,000	[5]			144,618,000	[5]
Total
Less than one year	250,444,000				250,444,000
One to three years	121,225,000				121,225,000
Three to five years	119,076,000				119,076,000
More than five years	1,405,535,000				1,405,535,000
Total	1,896,280,000				1,896,280,000
Number of long-term surplus notes	2				2
Less than one year	36,358,000	[5]			36,358,000	[5]
GWL&A Financial | Letter of Credit
Total
Debt Instrument, Number	2
GWL&A Financial | First letter of credit
Total
Amount outstanding	0		0		0
First Letter of Credit Received as Collateral under Reinsurance Arrangement	1,168,800,000				1,168,800,000
GWL&A Financial | Second letter of credit
Total
Second Letter of Credit Received as Collateral under Reinsurance Arrangement	70,000,000				70,000,000
Unfavorable Regulatory Action
Total
Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum	19,000,000				19,000,000
Insurance Claims
Total
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value					$20,000,000
[1]	Related party long-term debt principal - Represents contractual maturities of principal due to the Companybs parent, GWL&A Financial, under the terms of two long-term surplus notes. The amounts shown in this table differ from the amounts included in the Companybs consolidated balance sheet because the amounts shown above do not consider the discount upon the issuance of one of the surplus notes.
[2]	Related party long-term debt interest - One long-term surplus note bears interest at a fixed rate through maturity. The second surplus note bears interest initially at a fixed rate that will change in the future based upon the then current three-month London Interbank Offering Rate. The interest payments shown in this table are calculated based upon the contractual rates in effect on DecemberB 31, 2014 and do not consider the impact of future interest rate changes.
[3]	Investment purchase obligations - The Company makes commitments to fund partnership interests, mortgage loans on real estate and other investments in the normal course of its business. As the timing of the fulfillment of the commitment to fund partnership interests cannot be predicted, such obligations are presented in the less than one year category. The timing of the funding of mortgage loans on real estate is based on the expiration date of the commitment. The amounts of these unfunded commitments at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $166,356 and $196,933, of which $4,997 and $7,498 was related to cost basis limited partnership interests, respectively, all of which is due within one year from the dates indicated.
[4]	Operating leases - The Company is obligated to make payments under various non-cancelable operating leases, primarily for office space. Contractual provisions exist that could increase the lease obligations presented, including operating expense escalation clauses. Management does not consider the impact of any such clauses to be material to the Companybs operating lease obligations. The Company incurred rent expense, net of sublease income, of $7,628, $5,439 and $5,764 for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively and is recorded in general insurance expense. The Companybs total future operating lease obligation will be reduced by minimum reimbursement of $9,953 due in the future under non-cancelable agreements.B From time to time, the Company enters into agreements or contracts, including capital leases, to purchase goods or services in the normal course of its business. However, these agreements and contracts are not material and are excluded from the table above.
[5]	Other liabilities - Other liabilities include those other liabilities which represent contractual obligations not included elsewhere in the table above. If the timing of the payment of any other liabilities was sufficiently uncertain, the amounts were included in the less than one year category. Other liabilities presented in the table above include:B B7 Expected contributions to the Companybs defined benefit pension plan and benefit payments for the Post-Retirement Medical Plan and Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan through 2021.B7 Miscellaneous purchase obligations to acquire goods and services.B7 Unrecognized tax benefits

Subsequent_Event_Details

Subsequent Event (Details) (Subsequent event, USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 01, 2015	Feb. 05, 2015
	plan
	plan_participant
Subsequent event
Dividends payable		$76,801
Putnam
Subsequent event
Number of Acquired Business' Plans	433
Number of acquired business' plan participants	230,000
Acquired business' assets under management	$17,545,000

Schedule_III_Supplemental_Insu1

Schedule III Supplemental Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplemental insurance information
Deferred acquisition costs	$353,408	$314,071
Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	25,924,574	24,566,218
Unearned premium reserves	43,837	42,937
Other policy claims and benefits payable	753,215	764,523
Premium income	446,395	464,093	422,153
Net investment income	1,228,388	1,091,389	1,191,551
Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	1,222,445	1,232,091	1,198,310
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	41,045	55,490	51,434
Other operating expenses	822,077	691,831	643,081
Individual Markets Segment
Supplemental insurance information
Deferred acquisition costs	284,174	238,150
Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	14,980,872	13,945,756
Unearned premium reserves	43,837	42,937
Other policy claims and benefits payable	726,479	740,056
Premium income	360,305	354,202	314,350
Net investment income	748,015	688,279	729,885
Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	902,982	921,096	882,726
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	13,700	34,650	28,926
Other operating expenses	123,150	107,491	107,969
Retirement Services Segment
Supplemental insurance information
Deferred acquisition costs	69,234	75,921
Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	10,533,822	10,229,678
Other policy claims and benefits payable	581	499
Premium income	1,215	3,954	3,670
Net investment income	426,340	351,729	414,114
Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	206,339	196,115	204,296
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs	27,345	20,840	22,508
Other operating expenses	619,820	517,369	469,919
Other Segment
Supplemental insurance information
Future policy benefits, losses, claims and expenses	409,880	390,784
Other policy claims and benefits payable	26,155	23,968
Premium income	84,875	105,937	104,133
Net investment income	54,033	51,381	47,552
Benefits, claims, losses and settlement expenses	113,124	114,880	111,288
Other operating expenses	$79,107	$66,971	$65,193