| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 10, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 10, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | ATLANTIC AMERICAN CORP |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | GA |
| Entity File Number | 0-3722 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 58-1027114 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4370 Peachtree Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Atlanta |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30319 |
| City Area Code | 404 |
| Local Phone Number | 266-5500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000008177 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share |
| Trading Symbol | AAME |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
