Federal Agricultural Mortgage (AGM) 10-K 16 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

DOCUMENT_AND_ENTITY_INFORMATIO

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 02, 2015
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	FEDERAL AGRICULTURAL MORTGAGE CORP
Entity Central Index Key	845877
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	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
Trading Symbol	AGM
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float		$311,066,941
Common Class A, Voting [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding			1,030,780
Common Class B, Voting [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding			500,301
Common Class C, Non-Voting [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding			9,406,392

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,363,387	$749,313
Loans:
Loans held for investment, at amortized cost	2,833,461	2,570,125
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	692,478	629,989
Allowance for loan losses	-5,864	-6,866
Total loans, net of allowance	3,520,075	3,193,248
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value	421	2,617
Financial derivatives, at fair value	4,177	19,718
Interest receivable (includes $9,509 and $9,276, respectively, related to consolidated trusts)	104,550	107,201
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable	41,786	43,904
Deferred tax asset, net	33,391	44,045
Prepaid expenses and other assets	55,413	14,046
Total Assets	14,287,821	13,361,780
Notes payable:
Due within one year	7,353,953	7,338,781
Due after one year	5,471,186	5,001,169
Total notes payable	12,825,139	12,339,950
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	424,214	261,760
Financial derivatives, at fair value	84,844	75,708
Accrued interest payable (includes $5,145 and $2,823, respectively, related to consolidated trusts)	48,355	53,772
Guarantee and commitment obligation	37,925	39,667
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	81,252	9,986
Reserve for losses	4,263	6,468
Total Liabilities	13,505,992	12,787,311
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 6)
Common stock:
Additional paid-in capital	113,559	110,722
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax	15,533	-16,202
Retained earnings	201,013	168,877
Total Stockholders' Equity	545,801	332,616
Non-controlling interest - preferred stock	236,028	241,853
Total Equity	781,829	574,469
Total Liabilities and Equity	14,287,821	13,361,780
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock:
Preferred stock	58,333	58,333
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock:
Preferred stock	73,044	0
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock:
Preferred stock	73,382	0
Common Class A, Voting [Member]
Common stock:
Common Stock	1,031	1,031
Common Class B, Voting [Member]
Common stock:
Common Stock	500	500
Common Class C, Non-Voting [Member]
Common stock:
Common Stock	9,406	9,355
Investment Securities [Member]
Assets:
Available-for-sale, at fair value	1,938,499	2,483,147
Trading, at fair value	689	928
Marketable Securities	1,939,188	2,484,075
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Assets:
Available-for-sale, at fair value	3,659,281	5,091,600
Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost	1,794,620	0
Marketable Securities	5,453,901	5,091,600
USDA Securities [Member]
Assets:
Available-for-sale, at fair value	1,731,222	1,553,669
Trading, at fair value	40,310	58,344
Marketable Securities	$1,771,532	$1,612,013

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Interest receivable - Consolidated Trusts amount	$104,550	$107,201
Accrued interest payable - Consolidated Trusts amount	48,355	53,772
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value	$25	$25
Preferred stock, shares authorized	2,400,000	2,400,000
Preferred Stock, shares issued	2,400,000	2,400,000
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	2,400,000	2,400,000
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value	$25	$0
Preferred stock, shares authorized	3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares issued	3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	3,000,000	0
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock, par value	$25	$0
Preferred stock, shares authorized	3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares issued	3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	3,000,000	0
Common Class A, Voting [Member]
Common stock, par value	$1	$1
Common stock, shares outstanding	1,030,780	1,030,780
Common Class B, Voting [Member]
Common stock, par value	$1	$1
Common stock, shares outstanding	500,301	500,301
Common Class C, Non-Voting [Member]
Common stock, par value	$1	$1
Common stock, shares outstanding	9,406,267	9,354,804
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Interest receivable - Consolidated Trusts amount	9,509	9,276
Accrued interest payable - Consolidated Trusts amount	$5,145	$2,823

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Interest income:
Investments and cash equivalents	$17,269		$21,940		$24,729
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities	118,430		128,399		136,297
Loans	94,875		85,059		103,644
Total interest income	230,574	[1]	235,398	[2]	264,670	[2]
Total interest expense	170,720	[3]	137,276	[4]	142,690	[4]
Net interest income	59,854		98,122		121,980
Release of/(provision for) loan losses	961		481		-3,691
Net interest income after release of/(provision for) loan losses	60,815		98,603		118,289
Non-interest income:
Guarantee and commitment fees	25,187		26,958		24,963
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-21,646		31,764		-19,829
Gains/(losses) on trading securities	38,629		-819		307
(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	-238		2,113		18
Gains on repurchase of debt	0		1,462		0
Gains on sale of real estate owned	137		1,236		878
Lower of cost or fair value adjustment on loans held for sale	0		0		-5,943
Other income	1,714		3,057		3,341
Non-interest income	43,783		65,771		3,735
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and employee benefits	19,009		17,817		19,186
General and administrative	12,197		11,563		11,123
Regulatory fees	2,381		2,375		2,281
Real estate owned operating costs, net	110		423		134
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses	-2,205		929		-1,816
Non-interest expense	31,492	[5]	33,107	[5]	30,908	[5]
Income before income taxes	73,106		131,267		91,116
Income tax expense	2,824		33,752		22,156
Net income	70,282		97,515		68,960
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	-22,192		-22,187		-22,187
Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	48,090		75,328		46,773
Preferred stock dividends	-9,839		-3,495		-2,879
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$38,251		$71,833		$43,894
Earnings per common share and dividends:
Basic earnings per common share	$3.50		$6.64		$4.19
Diluted earnings per common share	$3.37		$6.41		$3.98
[1]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts and interest income related to securities purchased under agreements to resell.
[2]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
[3]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements. Includes reconciling adjustments for interest expense related to securities sold, not yet purchased.
[4]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
[5]	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENT_OF_COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Comprehensive Income
Net income	$70,282,000	$97,515,000	$68,960,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized holding gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities (1)	44,900,000	-75,465,000	2,165,000
(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities (4)	155,000	-1,374,000	-12,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized (losses)/gains on cash flow hedges (2)	-226,000	70,000	0
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities (3)	-12,488,000	-12,598,000	-6,358,000
Other income (5)	-606,000	-804,000	-1,196,000
Other comprehensive income/(loss)	31,735,000	-90,171,000	-5,401,000
Comprehensive income	102,017,000	7,344,000	63,559,000
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest - preferred stock dividends	-22,192,000	-22,187,000	-22,187,000
Comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to Farmer Mac	79,825,000	-14,843,000	41,372,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax	24,200,000	-40,600,000	1,200,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Tax	100,000	-700,000	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Effect [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax	-100,000	0
financial derivatives and hedging activities [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Effect [Abstract]
Tax effects of reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, tax	-6,700,000	-6,800,000	-3,400,000
Other Income [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Effect [Abstract]
Tax effects of reclassification adjustment for gains included in net income, tax	($300,000)	($400,000)	($600,000)

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_EQU

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	$781,829	$574,469	$781,829	$574,469	$592,962
Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	8,943	13,367	48,090	75,328	46,773
Balance, end of period	781,829	574,469	781,829	574,469	592,962
Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax			31,735	-90,171	-5,401
Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period (Shares)	8,400	2,400	8,400	2,400	58	58
Balance, beginning of period	204,759	58,333	204,759	58,333	57,578	57,578
Balance, end of period	204,759	58,333	204,759	58,333	57,578	57,578
Balance, end of period (Shares)	8,400	2,400	8,400	2,400	58	58
Preferred Stock [Member] | Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Series preferred stock (Shares)			0	2,400	0
Issuance of Series preferred stock			0	58,333	0
Issuance of Class C common stock (Shares)			0	2,400	0
Issuance of Class C common stock			0	58,333	0
Preferred Stock [Member] | Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Series preferred stock (Shares)			3,000	0	0
Issuance of Series preferred stock			73,044	0	0
Issuance of Class C common stock (Shares)			3,000	0	0
Issuance of Class C common stock			73,044	0	0
Preferred Stock [Member] | Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Series preferred stock (Shares)			3,000	0	0
Issuance of Series preferred stock			73,382	0	0
Issuance of Class C common stock (Shares)			3,000	0	0
Issuance of Class C common stock			73,382	0	0
Preferred Stock [Member] | Retired Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Redemption of Series C preferred stock (Shares)			0	-58	0
Redemption of Series C preferred stock			0	-57,578	0
Common Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period (Shares)	10,937	10,886	10,937	10,886	10,702	10,357
Balance, beginning of period	10,937	10,886	10,937	10,886	10,702	10,357
Issuance of Series preferred stock (Shares)			51	184	345
Issuance of Series preferred stock			51	184	345
Issuance of Class C common stock (Shares)			51	184	345
Issuance of Class C common stock			51	184	345
Balance, end of period	10,937	10,886	10,937	10,886	10,702	10,357
Balance, end of period (Shares)	10,937	10,886	10,937	10,886	10,702	10,357
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	113,559	110,722	113,559	110,722	106,617	102,821
Issuance of Series preferred stock			19	25	14
Issuance of Class C common stock			19	25	14
Stock-based compensation expense			2,859	2,966	2,428
Tax effect of stock-based awards			-41	1,114	1,354
Balance, end of period	113,559	110,722	113,559	110,722	106,617	102,821
Retained Earnings [Member}
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	201,013	168,877	201,013	168,877	102,243	62,554
Net income attributable to Farmer Mac			48,090	75,328	46,773
Balance, end of period	201,013	168,877	201,013	168,877	102,243	62,554
Cash dividends:
Common stock ($0.56 per share in 2014, $0.48 per share in 2013, and $0.40 per share in 2012)			-6,115	-5,199	-4,205
Retained Earnings [Member} | Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends:
Preferred Stock Series A ($1.4688 per share in 2014 and $1.3994 per share in 2013) Preferred stock, Series B ($1.3129 per share), Preferred stock Series C ($0.7917 per share), Preferred stock, retired Series C ($2.36 in 2013 per share and $50 per share in 2012)			-3,525	-3,359	0
Retained Earnings [Member} | Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends:
Preferred Stock Series A ($1.4688 per share in 2014 and $1.3994 per share in 2013) Preferred stock, Series B ($1.3129 per share), Preferred stock Series C ($0.7917 per share), Preferred stock, retired Series C ($2.36 in 2013 per share and $50 per share in 2012)			-3,939	0	0
Retained Earnings [Member} | Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends:
Preferred Stock Series A ($1.4688 per share in 2014 and $1.3994 per share in 2013) Preferred stock, Series B ($1.3129 per share), Preferred stock Series C ($0.7917 per share), Preferred stock, retired Series C ($2.36 in 2013 per share and $50 per share in 2012)			-2,375	0	0
Retained Earnings [Member} | Retired Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends:
Preferred Stock Series A ($1.4688 per share in 2014 and $1.3994 per share in 2013) Preferred stock, Series B ($1.3129 per share), Preferred stock Series C ($0.7917 per share), Preferred stock, retired Series C ($2.36 in 2013 per share and $50 per share in 2012)			0	-136	-2,879
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	15,533	-16,202	15,533	-16,202	73,969	79,370
Balance, end of period	15,533	-16,202	15,533	-16,202	73,969	79,370
Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax			31,735	-90,171	-5,401
Total Stockholders Equity [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	545,801	332,616	545,801	332,616	351,109
Balance, end of period	545,801	332,616	545,801	332,616	351,109
Non-controlling Interest - Preferred Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period	236,028	241,853	236,028	241,853	241,853	241,853
Balance, end of period	236,028	241,853	236,028	241,853	241,853	241,853
Investment in Contour - origination of a non-controlling interest			175	0	0
Purchase of non-controlling interest - preferred stock			($6,000)	$0	$0

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_EQU1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Common stock dividend, per share, cash paid	$0.56	$0.48	$0.40
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock (in usd per share)	$1.47	$1.40	$0
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock (in usd per share)	$1.31	$0	$0
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock (in usd per share)	$0.79	$0	$0
Retired Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred stock (in usd per share)	$0	$2.36	$50

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	$70,282	$97,515	$68,960
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net amortization of deferred gains, premiums, and discounts on loans, investments, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and USDA Securities	18,461	26,217	19,643
Amortization of debt premiums, discounts and issuance costs	9,689	11,839	14,658
Net change in fair value of trading securities, hedged assets, and financial derivatives	8,213	-44,362	-1,017
Losses/(gains) on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	238	-2,113	-18
Gains on repurchase of debt	0	1,462	0
Gains on sale of real estate owned	-137	-1,236	-878
Total (release of)/provision for losses	-3,166	448	1,875
Deferred income taxes	-6,979	6,670	-1,982
Stock-based compensation expense	2,859	2,967	2,428
Proceeds from repayment of trading investment securities	685	774	810
Payments to Purchase Loans Held-for-sale	0	0	-171,925
Proceeds from repayment of loans purchased as held for sale	98,712	168,589	151,473
Net change in:
Interest receivable	2,657	-3,835	6,938
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable	2,118	-2,115	-10,405
Other assets	-39,624	52,872	-43,200
Accrued interest payable	-5,417	1,993	-9,075
Other liabilities	-3,539	-771	5,018
Net cash provided by operating activities	155,052	313,990	33,303
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of loans held for investment	-749,099	-911,846	-564,251
Purchases of defaulted loans	-705	-6,704	-17,024
Proceeds from repayment of loans purchased as held for investment	337,466	265,151	289,318
Proceeds from sale of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	175,754	150,417	38,063
Proceeds from sale of real estate owned	1,927	4,042	2,056
Net cash used in investing activities	-83,662	-995,093	-1,328,810
Cash flows from financing activities:
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based awards	51	1,160	2,113
Payments to third parties on debt securities of consolidated trusts	-37,512	-56,278	-106,438
Proceeds from common stock issuance	244	1,913	2,935
Investment in Contour	175	0	0
Purchase of interest - Non-controlling interest - preferred stock	-6,000	0	0
Dividends paid - Non-controlling interest - preferred stock	-22,192	-22,187	-22,187
Dividends paid on common and preferred stock	-13,996	-7,979	-7,084
Net cash provided by financing activities	542,684	644,852	1,264,025
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	614,074	-36,251	-31,482
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	749,313	785,564	817,046
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	1,363,387	749,313	785,564
Medium-term Notes [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of discount notes and medium-term notes	3,544,818	2,886,783	3,358,188
Payments to redeem discount notes and medium-term notes	-3,108,000	-2,066,602	-1,790,000
Discount Notes [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of discount notes and medium-term notes	38,388,899	64,859,652	67,404,261
Payments to redeem discount notes and medium-term notes	-38,350,229	-64,952,365	-67,577,763
Investment Securities [Member]
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of available-for-sale investment securities and Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities	-1,545,658	-1,703,082	-1,888,352
Proceeds from repayment of available-for-sale investment securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities	1,327,044	1,350,491	1,410,427
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale investment securities	770,149	366,562	7,018
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of available-for-sale investment securities and Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities	-1,555,272	-1,635,394	-1,469,057
Proceeds from repayment of available-for-sale investment securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities	1,154,732	1,125,270	862,992
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from Preferred Stock Issuances	0	58,333	0
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from Preferred Stock Issuances	73,044	0	0
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from Preferred Stock Issuances	73,382	0	0
Retired Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash flows from financing activities:
Retirement of Series C Preferred stock	$0	($57,578)	$0

Organization_ORGANIZATION

Organization ORGANIZATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization [Text Block]	ORGANIZATION
	The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation ("Farmer Mac") is a stockholder-owned, federally chartered instrumentality of the United States established under Title VIII of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (12 U.S.C. §§ 2279aa et seq.), which is sometimes referred to as Farmer Mac's charter.  Farmer Mac was originally created by the United States Congress to provide a secondary market for a variety of loans made to borrowers in rural America.  This secondary market is designed to increase the availability of long-term credit at stable interest rates to America's rural communities and to provide rural borrowers with the benefits of capital markets pricing and product innovation.  Since Farmer Mac's inception, Congress has expanded Farmer Mac's charter to authorize Farmer Mac to create the USDA Guarantees line of business and to purchase, and guarantee securities backed by, loans made by cooperative lenders to finance electrification and telecommunications systems in rural areas.
	Farmer Mac's main secondary market activities are:
	•	purchasing eligible loans directly from lenders;
	•	providing advances against eligible loans by purchasing obligations secured by those loans;
	•	securitizing assets and guaranteeing the payment of principal and interest on the resulting securities that represent interests in, or obligations secured by, pools of eligible loans; and
	•	issuing long-term standby purchase commitments ("LTSPCs") for eligible loans.
	Effective January 1, 2014, Farmer Mac determined the reportable segments of its four lines of business to be – Farm & Ranch, USDA Guarantees, Rural Utilities, and Institutional Credit.  See Note 14 for information about Farmer Mac's reportable segments. As of December 31, 2014, the total outstanding balance in all of Farmer Mac's lines of business was $14.6 billion.
	Under the Farm & Ranch line of business, Farmer Mac purchases eligible mortgage loans secured by first liens on agricultural real estate and rural housing.  Farmer Mac also guarantees securities representing interests in pools of mortgage loans eligible for the Farm & Ranch line of business.  Additionally, Farmer Mac commits to purchase, subject to the terms of the applicable LTSPC agreement, eligible Farm & Ranch mortgage loans. The securities guaranteed by Farmer Mac under this line of business are referred to as "Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities."  To be eligible, loans must meet Farmer Mac's credit underwriting, collateral valuation, documentation, and other specified standards.  As of December 31, 2014, outstanding loans held by Farmer Mac, loans that either backed off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities or were subject to LTSPCs, and other Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities totaled $5.4 billion.
	Under the USDA Guarantees line of business, Farmer Mac II LLC, a subsidiary of Farmer Mac, purchases the portions of certain agricultural, rural development, business and industry, and community facilities loans guaranteed by the United States Department of Agriculture under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. §§ 1921 et seq.).  USDA-guaranteed portions are referred to and presented on the consolidated balance sheets as "USDA Securities."  Farmer Mac II LLC also purchases USDA Securities in exchange for issuing securities to third parties backed by those USDA Securities, which are then also guaranteed by Farmer Mac. These issued securities are referred to and presented on the consolidated balance sheets as Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities. As of December 31, 2014, outstanding Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities and USDA Securities totaled $1.8 billion.
	Farmer Mac's authorized activities under the Rural Utilities line of business are similar to those conducted under the Farm & Ranch line of business – purchases of, and guarantees of securities backed by, eligible rural utilities loans.  To be eligible, loans must meet Farmer Mac's credit underwriting and other specified standards.  Farmer Mac has retained in its portfolio all of the rural utilities loans and, to date, has not issued any LTSPCs under the Rural Utilities line of business.  As of December 31, 2014, the aggregate outstanding principal balance of rural utilities loans held was $1.0 billion.
	Under the Institutional Credit line of business, Farmer Mac guarantees and purchases general obligations of lenders that are secured by pools of loans that would be eligible under Farmer Mac's Farm & Ranch, USDA Guarantees, or Rural Utilities lines of business. AgVantage® is a registered trademark of Farmer Mac used to designate Farmer Mac's guarantees of securities related to these general obligations of lenders that are secured by pools of eligible loans and that comprise the Institutional Credit line of business.  For more information on the products currently offered under Farmer Mac's Institutional Credit line of business, see "Business—Farmer Mac Lines of Business—Institutional Credit."  As of December 31, 2014, outstanding securities held or guaranteed by Farmer Mac in its Institutional Credit line of business totaled $6.4 billion.
	Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities, and AgVantage Securities are collectively referred to as "Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities."  The assets collateralizing Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities include (1) loans or loan participation interests eligible for purchase under either the Farm & Ranch or Rural Utilities lines of business or (2) USDA Securities eligible for purchase under the USDA Guarantees line of business.  Farmer Mac guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on the resulting Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.  Farmer Mac may retain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities in its portfolio or sell them to third parties.
	Farmer Mac's two principal sources of revenue are:
	•	interest income earned on assets held on balance sheet, net of related funding costs and interest payments and receipts on financial derivatives; and
	•	guarantee and commitment fees received in connection with outstanding Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs.
	Farmer Mac funds its purchases of eligible loan assets and liquidity investment assets primarily by issuing debt obligations of various maturities in the public capital markets.  As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac had $4.9 billion of discount notes and $7.9 billion of medium-term notes outstanding.  The proceeds of debt issuance are invested in loan purchases, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and liquidity investment assets in accordance with policies established by Farmer Mac's board of directors that comply with regulations promulgated by the Farm Credit Administration ("FCA").

Accounting_Policies

Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Accounting Policies Disclosure	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	The accounting and reporting policies of Farmer Mac conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("generally accepted accounting principles" or "GAAP").  The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities (including, but not limited to, the allowance for loan losses, reserve for losses, other-than-temporary impairment of investment securities and fair value measurements) as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following are the significant accounting policies that Farmer Mac follows in preparing and presenting its consolidated financial statements:
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Farmer Mac and its three subsidiaries: (1) Farmer Mac Mortgage Securities Corporation ("FMMSC"), whose principal activities are to facilitate the purchase and issuance of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities; (2) Farmer Mac II LLC, whose principal activity is the operation of substantially all of the business related to the USDA Guarantees line of business – primarily the acquisition of USDA Securities; and (3) Contour Valuation Services, LLC, whose principal activity is to appraise agricultural real estate.  The consolidated financial statements also include the accounts of variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which Farmer Mac determined itself to be the primary beneficiary.  See Note 2(q) for more information on consolidated VIEs.
	A guarantee by Farmer Mac of timely payment of principal and interest is an explicit element of the terms of all Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.  When Farmer Mac retains such securities in its portfolio, that guarantee is not extinguished.  For Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities held in Farmer Mac's portfolio, Farmer Mac has entered into guarantee arrangements with FMMSC.  The guarantee fee rate established between Farmer Mac and FMMSC is an element in determining the fair value of these Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and guarantee fees related to these securities are reflected in guarantee and commitment fees in the consolidated statements of operations.  These guarantee fees totaled $10.1 million in 2014, $10.9 million in 2013, and $10.3 million in 2012. The corresponding expense of FMMSC has been eliminated against interest income in consolidation.  All other inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	rmer Mac considers highly liquid investment securities with maturities at the time of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents.  Farmer Mac does not consider securities purchased under agreements to resell to be cash equivalents if it intends to reinvest the funds from maturing repurchase agreements into new repurchase agreements and the aggregate term of the repurchase agreements exceeds three months. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents is a reasonable estimate of their approximate fair value.  Changes in the balance of cash and cash equivalents are reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
	The following table sets forth information regarding certain cash and non-cash transactions for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 2.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Cash paid during the period for:
	Interest	$	171,644	$	114,609		$	112,663
	Income taxes	12,750		23,000			21,500
	Non-cash activity:
	Real estate owned acquired through loan liquidation	—		1,443			2,280
	Loans acquired and securitized as Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	175,754		150,417			32,736
	Purchases of securities - traded, not yet settled	70,178		—			—
	Consolidation of Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities from off-balance sheet to loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and to debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	199,906		150,417			32,736
	Deconsolidation of loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties - transferred to off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities	—		—			460,261
	Transfers of loans held for sale to loans held for investment	—		673,991			—
	Transfers of available-for-sale Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities to held-to-maturity	1,632,786		—			—
	On January 1, 2014, Farmer Mac transferred $1.6 billion of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity because Farmer Mac determined it has the ability and intent to hold these securities until maturity or payoff. Farmer Mac transferred these securities at fair value which reflected an unrealized holding gain of $22.3 million. Farmer Mac accounts for held-to-maturity securities at amortized cost. The unrealized holding gain is being amortized out of accumulated other comprehensive income over the remaining life of the transferred securities.
	On January 1, 2013, Farmer Mac transferred $674.0 million of loans from held for sale to held for investment because Farmer Mac either (1) no longer intends to sell these loans in the foreseeable future or (2) securitizes these loans using VIEs that are ultimately consolidated on Farmer Mac's balance sheet and reported as "Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost." Farmer Mac transferred these loans at the lower of cost or fair value (determined on a pooled basis). Farmer Mac recorded a $5.9 million unamortized discount for loans transferred at fair value. At the time of purchase, loans are classified as either held for sale or held for investment depending upon management's intent and ability to hold the loans for the foreseeable future. Cash receipts from the repayment of loans are classified within the statements of cash flows based on management's intent upon purchase of the loan.
	During 2012, Farmer Mac deconsolidated $460.3 million of Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities owned by Farm Credit West ("FCW") from loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties to off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities because FCW was no longer a related party as of June 30, 2012. See Note 2(q) for further information related to the consolidation of VIEs.
	Transfers of Financial Assets and Liabilities
	Securities purchased under agreements to resell are treated as collateralized lending transactions. Farmer Mac's counterparties are required to pledge collateral for transactions involving securities purchased under agreements to resell. Farmer Mac considers the types of securities being pledged as collateral when determining how much to lend in these transactions. Additionally, on a daily basis, Farmer Mac reviews the fair values of these securities compared to amounts loaned and derivative counterparty collateral posting thresholds in an effort to minimize exposure to losses. These transactions are reported as securities purchased under agreements to resell in the consolidated balance sheets except for securities purchased under agreements to resell on an overnight basis, which are included in cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets. Farmer Mac records securities purchased under agreements to resell at the amount loaned in the consolidated balance sheets. The resulting fees for these transactions are included in interest income in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding securities purchased under agreements to resell.
	Securities sold, not yet purchased, represent obligations of Farmer Mac to deliver specified securities at contracted prices, which would thereby require Farmer Mac to purchase the securities in the market at prevailing prices. Farmer Mac records securities sold, not yet purchased in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities" in the consolidated statements of operations. The resulting interest expense for these transactions is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding securities sold, not yet purchased.
	nvestment Securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and USDA Securities
	Securities for which Farmer Mac does not have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as available-for-sale or trading and are carried at estimated fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders' equity.  For securities classified as trading, unrealized gains and losses are included in earnings.  Gains and losses on the sale of available-for-sale and trading securities are determined using the specific identification cost method.  As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac did not classify any securities as held-to-maturity. However, effective January 1, 2014, Farmer Mac transferred $1.6 billion of available-for-sale securities to a held-to-maturity classification as the company currently has the intent to hold the securities to maturity.
	Farmer Mac determines the fair value of investment securities using quoted market prices, when available, and evaluates the securities for other-than-temporary impairment.  Farmer Mac determines the fair values of certain investment securities for which quoted market prices are not available, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities based on the present value of the associated expected future cash flows.  In estimating the present value of the expected future cash flows, management is required to make estimates and assumptions.  The key estimates and assumptions include discount rates and collateral repayment rates.  Premiums, discounts and other deferred costs are amortized to interest income over the estimated life of the security using the effective interest method.
	Farmer Mac generally receives compensation when loans with yield maintenance provisions underlying Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities prepay.  These yield maintenance payments mitigate Farmer Mac's exposure to reinvestment risk and are calculated such that, when reinvested with the prepaid principal, they should generate substantially the same cash flows that would have been generated had the loans not prepaid.  Yield maintenance payments are recognized as interest income in the consolidated statements of operations upon receipt.
		Loans
	Loans for which Farmer Mac has the positive intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for investment and reported at their unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized purchase discounts or premiums.  When Farmer Mac consolidates a trust, it recognizes the loans underlying the trust in the consolidated balance sheets as "Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost."  See Note 2(q) for more information on the accounting policy related to consolidation.  Loans that Farmer Mac does not intend to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for sale and reported at the lower of cost or fair value determined on a pooled basis.  Farmer Mac does not amortize premiums and discounts related to loans held for sale.
	Non-accrual Loans
	Non-accrual loans are loans for which it is probable that Farmer Mac will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement and include all loans 90 days or more past due.  When a loan becomes 90 days past due, interest accrual on the loan is discontinued and interest previously accrued is reversed against interest income in the current period.  The interest on such loans is accounted for on the cash basis until a loan qualifies for return to accrual status.  Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest payments contractually due are collected and certain performance criteria are met.
	Securitization of Loans
	Asset securitization involves the transfer of financial assets to another entity in exchange for cash and/or beneficial interests in the assets transferred.  Farmer Mac or third parties transfer agricultural real estate mortgage loans or rural utilities loans into trusts that are used as vehicles for the securitization of the transferred loans.  The trusts issue Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities that are beneficial interests in the assets of the trusts, to either Farmer Mac or third party investors.  Farmer Mac guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on the securities issued by the trusts and receives guarantee fees as compensation for its guarantee.  Farmer Mac recognizes guarantee fees on an accrual basis over the terms of the Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, which generally coincide with the terms of the underlying loans.  As such, no guarantee fees are unearned at the end of any reporting period.  When Farmer Mac purchases a delinquent loan underlying a Farmer Mac Guaranteed Security, Farmer Mac stops accruing the guarantee fee upon loan purchase.
	Real Estate Owned
	Real estate owned ("REO") consists of real estate acquired through loan liquidation and is recorded at fair value less estimated selling cost at acquisition.  Fair value is determined by appraisal or other appropriate valuation method.  Any excess of the recorded investment in the loan over the fair value less estimated selling cost is charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Subsequent to the acquisition, management continues to perform periodic valuations of real estate owned.  Declines in the net realizable value (fair value less estimated selling costs) are charged through income and presented in "Real estate owned operating costs, net" on the consolidated statements of operations.
	Farmer Mac contracts with third parties to operate or preserve real estate owned and offered for sale when appropriate to maintain property value.  Non-recoverable costs are expensed as incurred and those related to the production of saleable goods or crops are capitalized to the extent they are realizable.  As revenues from the sale of goods or crops are received, they are applied first to any capitalized costs and any remaining revenues offset non-recoverable expenses incurred.  Farmer Mac had no capitalized costs as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Farmer Mac enters into financial derivative transactions principally to protect against risk from the effects of market price or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets, future cash flows or debt issuance, not for trading or speculative purposes. Farmer Mac enters into interest rate swap contracts principally to adjust the characteristics of its short-term debt to match more closely the cash flow and duration characteristics of its longer-term loans and other assets, and also to adjust the characteristics of its long-term debt to match more closely the cash flow and duration characteristics of its short-term assets, thereby reducing interest rate risk and often times deriving an overall lower effective cost of borrowing than would otherwise be available to Farmer Mac in the conventional debt market. Farmer Mac is required to recognize certain contracts and commitments as derivatives when the characteristics of those contracts and commitments meet the definition of a derivative.
	Accounting for financial derivatives differs significantly depending on whether a derivative is designated in a hedging relationship. Derivative instruments designated in fair value hedging relationships mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of assets or liabilities. Derivative instruments designated in cash flow hedging relationships mitigate exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows or other forecasted transactions. In order to qualify for fair value or cash flow hedge accounting treatment, documentation must indicate the intention to designate the derivative as a hedge of a specific asset or liability or a future cash flow. Effectiveness of the hedge must be assessed at inception and monitored over the life of the hedging relationship.
	All financial derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value as a freestanding asset or liability. Changes in the fair values of financial derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges are reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. For financial derivatives designated in fair value hedging relationships, changes in the fair values of the hedged items related to the risk being hedged are also reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. The accrual of the contractual amounts due on the financial derivative is included as an adjustment to the yield of the hedged item and is reported in net interest income. For financial derivatives designated in cash flow hedging relationships, the effective portion of the derivative gain/loss is recorded in other comprehensive income; amounts are disclosed as a reclassification out of other comprehensive income when the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of designated hedge transactions is recognized immediately in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations.
	Farmer Mac has made an accounting policy election to measure the credit risk of its derivative financial instruments that are subject to master netting agreements on a net basis by counterparty portfolio, consistent with how Farmer Mac previously has been measuring credit risk for these instruments. See Notes 6 and 13 for more information on financial derivatives.
	Notes Payable
	Notes payable are classified as due within one year or due after one year based on the length of time remaining to their contractual maturities.  Debt issuance costs and premiums and discounts are deferred and amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the contractual life of the related debt.
	Allowance for Loan Losses and Reserve for Losses
	Farmer Mac maintains an allowance for losses to cover estimated probable losses incurred as of the balance sheet date on loans held ("allowance for loan losses") and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities ("reserve for losses") based on available information.  Disaggregation by commodity type is performed, where appropriate, in analyzing the need for an allowance for losses.
	The allowance for losses is increased through periodic provisions for loan losses that are charged against net interest income and provisions for losses that are charged to non-interest expense, and is reduced by charge-offs for actual losses, net of recoveries.  Negative provisions, or releases of allowance for losses, generally are recorded in the event that the estimate of probable losses as of the end of a period is lower than the estimate at the beginning of the period. In certain circumstances, for example, when a defaulted loan is purchased out of a guaranteed security or pursuant to an LTSPC, the related reserve for losses is reclassified as allowance for loan losses and there is a corresponding release from the provision for losses and a charge to the provision for loan losses.
	The total allowance for losses consists of a general allowance for losses and a specific allowance for individual impaired loans.
	Charge-offs
	Farmer Mac records a charge-off against the allowance for losses principally when a loss has been confirmed through the receipt of assets, generally the underlying collateral, in full satisfaction of the loan. The loss equals the excess of the recorded investment in the loan over the fair value of the collateral less estimated selling costs.
	General Allowance for Losses
	Farm & Ranch
	Farmer Mac's methodology for determining its allowance for losses incorporates Farmer Mac's automated loan classification system.  That system scores loans based on criteria such as historical repayment performance, indicators of current financial condition, loan seasoning, loan size and loan-to-value ratio.  The allowance methodology captures the migration of loan scores across concurrent and overlapping 3-year time horizons and calculates loss rates separately within each loan classification for (1) loans underlying LTSPCs and (2) loans held and loans underlying Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities.  The calculated loss rates are applied to the current classification distribution of unimpaired loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio to estimate inherent losses, on the assumption that the historical credit losses and trends used to calculate loss rates will continue in the future.
	Management evaluates this assumption by taking into consideration several factors, including:
	•	economic conditions;
	•	geographic and agricultural commodity/product concentrations in the portfolio;
	•	the credit profile of the portfolio;
	•	delinquency trends of the portfolio;
	•	historical charge-off and recovery activities of the portfolio; and
	•	other factors to capture current portfolio trends and characteristics that differ from historical experience.
	Management believes that its use of this methodology produces a reasonable estimate of probable losses, as of the balance sheet date, for all loans held in the Farm & Ranch portfolio and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs. There were no purchases or sales during 2014 that materially affected the credit profile of the Farm & Ranch portfolio.
	Rural Utilities
Farmer Mac separately evaluates the rural utilities loans it owns to determine if there are any probable losses inherent in those assets.  No allowance for losses has been provided for this portfolio segment based on the credit quality of the collateral supporting rural utilities assets and Farmer Mac's counterparty risk analysis. As of December 31, 2014 there were no delinquencies and no probable losses inherent in Farmer Mac's rural utilities loans.
Specific Allowance for Impaired Loans
Farmer Mac also analyzes certain loans in its portfolio for impairment in accordance with accounting guidance on measuring individual impairment of a loan.  Farmer Mac's impaired loans generally include loans 90 days or more past due, in foreclosure, restructured, in bankruptcy and certain performing loans that have previously been delinquent or are secured by real estate that produces agricultural commodities or products currently under stress.
Farmer Mac uses a risk-based approach in determining the necessity of obtaining updated appraisals on impaired loans. For example, larger exposures associated with highly improved and specialized collateral will generally receive updated appraisals once the loans are identified as impaired. In addition, updated appraisals are always obtained during the foreclosure process.  Depending on the risk factors associated with the loan and underlying collateral, which can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the loan and collateral, this can occur early in the foreclosure process, while in other instances this may occur just prior to the transfer of title.  As part of its routine credit review process, Farmer Mac often will exercise judgment in discounting an appraisal value due to local real estate trends or the condition of the property (e.g., following an inspection by Farmer Mac or the servicer).  In addition, a property appraisal value may be discounted based on the market's reaction to Farmer Mac's asking price for sale of the property.
For loans with an updated appraised value, other updated collateral valuation or management's estimate of discounted collateral value, this analysis includes the measurement of the fair value of the underlying collateral for individual loans relative to the total recorded investment, including principal, interest and advances and net of any charge-offs.  In the event that the collateral value does not support the total recorded investment, Farmer Mac specifically provides an allowance for the loan for the difference between the recorded investment and its fair value, less estimated costs to liquidate the collateral. Estimated selling costs are based on historical selling costs incurred by Farmer Mac or management's best estimate of selling costs for a particular property.  For the remaining impaired assets without updated valuations, this analysis is performed in the aggregate in consideration of the similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics. Farmer Mac considers appraisals aged more than two years as of the reporting period end date to be outdated. Farmer Mac believes this methodology that uses loan classification scores and historical loss experience is a better indication of impairment for these collateral-dependent loans than other valuation methods.
Earnings Per Common Share
Basic earnings per common share ("EPS") is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding.  Diluted earnings per common share is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding adjusted to include all potentially dilutive common stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), and non-vested restricted stock awards.  The following schedule reconciles basic and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
Table 2.2
	For the Year Ended December 31,
	2014							2013										2012
	Net		Weighted-Average Shares		$ per			Net			Weighted-Average Shares			$ per				Net		Weighted-Average Shares	$ per
	Income				Share			Income						Share				Income			Share
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Basic EPS
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	38,251	10,920		$	3.5		$	71,833		10,816			$	6.64			$	43,894	10,479	$	4.19
Effect of dilutive securities (1):
Stock options, SARs and restricted stock	—		447		(0.13		)	—			393			(0.23		)		—		540	(0.21		)
Diluted EPS	$	38,251	11,367		$	3.37		$	71,833		11,209			$	6.41			$	43,894	11,019	$	3.98
-1	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, stock options and SARs of 109,143, 33,730, and 317,253, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share of common stock because they were anti-dilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, contingent shares of non-vested restricted stock of 36,784, 26,696, and 79,300, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share of common stock because performance conditions were not met.
Deferred federal income tax assets and liabilities are established for temporary differences between financial and taxable income and are measured using the current enacted statutory tax rate.  Income tax expense is equal to the income taxes payable in the current year plus the net change in the deferred tax asset or liability balance.
Farmer Mac evaluates its tax positions at least quarterly to identify and recognize any liabilities related to uncertain tax positions in its federal income tax returns.  Farmer Mac uses a two-step approach in which income tax benefits are recognized if, based on the technical merits of a tax position, it is more likely than not (a probability of greater than 50 percent) that the tax position would be sustained upon examination by the taxing authority, which includes all related appeals and litigation process.  The amount of tax benefit recognized is then measured at the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority, considering all information available at the reporting date.  Farmer Mac's policy for recording interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions is to record them as a component of income tax expense.  Farmer Mac establishes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Stock-Based Compensation
Farmer Mac accounts for its stock-based employee compensation plans using the grant date fair value method of accounting.  Farmer Mac measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  The cost is recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. For performance-based grants, Farmer Mac recognizes the grant-date fair value over the vesting period as long as it remains probable that the performance conditions will be met. If the service or performance conditions are not met, Farmer Mac reverses previously recognized compensation expense upon forfeiture.
Farmer Mac recognized $2.9 million, $3.0 million, and $2.5 million of compensation expense related to stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock awards for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income represents all changes in stockholders' equity except those resulting from investments by or distributions to stockholders, and is comprised primarily of net income and unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, net of related taxes.
Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments
Farmer Mac accounts for its LTSPCs as guarantees. Commitment fee income represents a reduction of the commitment obligation based on amortization using the actual prepayment experience on the underlying loans.  See Note 2(j) for Farmer Mac's policy for estimating probable losses for LTSPCs and Note 12 for more information on the accounting for LTSPCs.
Fair Value Measurement
Farmer Mac defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and establishes a fair value hierarchy that ranks the quality and reliability of the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value.  The hierarchy gives highest rank to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest rank to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements).
Farmer Mac's assessment of the significance of the input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument.  Both observable and unobservable inputs may be used to determine the fair value of financial instruments that Farmer Mac has classified within the level 3 category.  As a result, the unrealized gains and losses for assets and liabilities within the level 3 category may include changes in fair value that were attributable to both observable (e.g., changes in market interest rates) and unobservable (e.g., changes in projected prepayment rates) inputs. See Note 13 for more information regarding fair value measurement.
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
Farmer Mac has interests in various entities that are considered to be VIEs.  These interests include investments in securities issued by VIEs, such as Farmer Mac agricultural mortgage-backed securities created pursuant to Farmer Mac's securitization transactions and mortgage and asset-backed trusts that Farmer Mac did not create.  The consolidation model uses a qualitative evaluation that requires consolidation of an entity when the reporting enterprise both (1) has the power to direct matters which significantly impact the activities and success of the entity, and (2) has exposure to benefits and/or losses that could potentially be significant to the entity.  The reporting enterprise that meets both these conditions is deemed the primary beneficiary of the VIE. Upon consolidation of a VIE, Farmer Mac accounts for the incremental assets and liabilities initially at their carrying amounts.
The VIEs in which Farmer Mac has a variable interest are limited to securitization trusts.  The major factor in determining if Farmer Mac is the primary beneficiary is whether Farmer Mac has the power to direct the activities of the trust that potentially have the most significant impact on the economic performance of the trust.  Generally, the ability to make decisions regarding default mitigation is evidence of that power.  Farmer Mac determined that it is the primary beneficiary for the securitization trusts related to most Farm & Ranch and all Rural Utilities securitization transactions because of its rights as guarantor under both programs to control the default mitigation activities of the trusts.  For certain securitization trusts created when loans subject to LTSPCs were converted to Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities, Farmer Mac determined that it was not the primary beneficiary since the power to make decisions regarding default mitigation was shared among unrelated parties. For these trusts, the shared power provisions are substantive with respect to decision-making power and relate to the same activity (i.e., default mitigation). For similar securitization transactions where the power to make decisions regarding default mitigation was shared with a related party, Farmer Mac determined that it was the primary beneficiary because the applicable accounting guidance does not permit parties within a related party group to conclude that the power is shared. In the event that a related party status changes, consolidation or deconsolidation of these securitization trusts could occur.
For those trusts that Farmer Mac is the primary beneficiary, the assets and liabilities are presented on the consolidated balance sheets as "Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost" and "Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties," respectively.  These assets can only be used to satisfy the obligations of the related trust.
For those trusts where Farmer Mac has a variable interest but has not been determined to be the primary beneficiary, Farmer Mac's interests are presented as either "Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities," "USDA Securities," or "Investment securities" on the consolidated balance sheets.  Farmer Mac's involvement in VIEs classified as Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities or USDA Securities include securitization trusts under the USDA Guarantees line of business and certain trusts related to AgVantage securities.  In the case of USDA guaranteed trusts, Farmer Mac is not determined to be the primary beneficiary because it does not have the decision-making power over default mitigation activities.  Based on the USDA's program authority over the servicing and default mitigation activities of the USDA guaranteed portions of loans, Farmer Mac believes that the USDA has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the trust's economic performance. Farmer Mac does not have exposure to losses that could be significant to the trust and there are no triggers that would result in Farmer Mac superseding the USDA's authority with regard to directing the activities of the trust. For the AgVantage trusts, Farmer Mac currently does not have the power to direct the activities that have the most significant economic impact to the trust unless, as guarantor, there is a default by the issuer of the trust securities.  Should there be a default, Farmer Mac would reassess whether it is the primary beneficiary of those trusts.  The amounts disclosed in the tables below represent Farmer Mac's holdings of a portion of the beneficial interests issued by these AgVantage Trusts. For VIEs classified as investment securities, which include auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and government-sponsored enterprise ("GSE")-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities, Farmer Mac is determined not to be the primary beneficiary because of the lack of voting rights or other powers to direct the activities of the trust.  The following tables present, by line of business, details about the consolidation of VIEs:
Table 2.3
	Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
	As of December 31, 2014
	Farm & Ranch		USDA Guarantees			Rural Utilities			Institutional Credit			Corporate				Total
	(in thousands)
On-Balance Sheet:
Consolidated VIEs:
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost (1)	$	421,355	$	—		$	271,123		$	—		$	—			$	692,478
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties (2)	424,214		—			—			—			—				424,214
Unconsolidated VIEs:
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Carrying value (3)	—		27,620			—			32,415			—				60,035
Maximum exposure to loss (4)	—		27,832			—			30,000			—				57,832
Investment securities:
Carrying value (5)	—		—			—			—			409,657				409,657
Maximum exposure to loss (4) (5)	—		—			—			—			412,690				412,690
Off-Balance Sheet:
Unconsolidated VIEs:
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Maximum exposure to loss (4) (6)	636,086		13,978			—			970,000			—				1,620,064
(1) Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $3.7 million.
(2) Includes borrower remittances of $2.9 million. The borrower remittances have not been passed through to third party investors as of December 31, 2014.
(3) Includes $0.2 million of unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees line of business. Includes fair value adjustments related to the Institutional Credit line of business of $2.4 million.
(4) Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
(5) Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and government-sponsored enterprise ("GSE")-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.
(6) The amount under the Farm & Ranch line of business relates to unconsolidated trusts where Farmer Mac determined it was not the primary beneficiary due to shared power with an unrelated party.
	Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
	As of December 31, 2013
	Farm & Ranch		USDA Guarantees			Rural Utilities			Institutional Credit			Corporate				Total
	(in thousands)
On-Balance Sheet:
Consolidated VIEs:
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost (1)	$	259,509	$	—		$	370,480		$	—		$	—			$	629,989
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties (2)	261,760		—			—			—			—				261,760
Unconsolidated VIEs:
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Carrying value (3)	—		21,234			—			33,248			—				54,482
Maximum exposure to loss (4)	—		21,088			—			30,000			—				51,088
Investment securities:
Carrying value (5)	—		—			—			—			533,688				533,688
Maximum exposure to loss (4) (5)	—		—			—			—			540,726				540,726
Off-Balance Sheet:
Unconsolidated VIEs:
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Maximum exposure to loss (4) (6)	765,751		20,222			—			970,000			—				1,755,973
(1) Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $16.2 million.
(2) Includes borrower remittances of $2.3 million, which have not been passed through to third party investors as of December 31, 2013.
(3) Includes unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees and Institutional Credit lines of business of $0.1 million and $3.2 million, respectively.
(4) Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and the outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
(5) Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and GSE-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.
(6) The amount under the Farm & Ranch line of business relates to unconsolidated trusts where Farmer Mac determined it was not the primary beneficiary due to shared power with an unrelated party.
New Accounting Standards
Receivables
In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-04, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure.” This update clarifies that an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan, upon either (1) the creditor obtaining legal title to the residential real estate property upon completion of a foreclosure or (2) the borrower conveying all interest in the residential real estate property to the creditor to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. Additionally, the amendments require interim and annual disclosure of both (1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by the creditor and (2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction.” ASU 2014-04 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of the new guidance will not have a material effect on Farmer Mac’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Certain reclassifications of prior period information were made to conform to the current period presentation.

Related_Party_Transactions_Not

Related Party Transactions - (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
	Farmer Mac considers an entity to be a related party if (1) the entity holds at least five percent of a class of Farmer Mac voting common stock or (2) the institution has an affiliation with a Farmer Mac director and conducts material business with Farmer Mac. As provided by Farmer Mac's statutory charter, only banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions or similar entities may hold Farmer Mac's Class A voting common stock and only institutions of the Farm Credit System may hold Farmer Mac's Class B voting common stock.  Farmer Mac's statutory charter also provides that Class A stockholders elect five members of Farmer Mac's 15-member board of directors and that Class B stockholders elect five members of the board of directors.  Additionally, in order to participate in the Farm & Ranch program, a financial institution must own a requisite amount of Farmer Mac's common stock, based on the size and type of institution.  As a result of these requirements, Farmer Mac conducts business with related parties in the normal course of Farmer Mac's business. All related party transactions were conducted with terms and conditions comparable to those available to any other participant in Farmer Mac's lines of business not related to Farmer Mac.
	Zions First National Bank:
	Farmer Mac considers Zions First National Bank and its affiliates ("Zions") a related party due to the ownership by Zions of approximately 31.2 percent of Class A voting common stock. The following transactions occurred between Farmer Mac and Zions during 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 3.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Unpaid Principal Balance:
	Purchases:
	Loans	$	155,808	$	210,088	$	168,826
	USDA Securities	42,637		13,153		14,415
	On-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	50,237		—		—
	Sales of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	147,234		120,409		5,327
	The purchases of loans from Zions under the Farm & Ranch line of business represented approximately 22.3 percent, 25.5 percent, and 29.6 percent of Farm & Ranch loan purchases for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and 14.6 percent, 15.4 percent, and 12.8 percent, respectively, of total new Farm & Ranch business volume. The purchases of USDA Securities from Zions under the USDA Guarantees line of business represented approximately 12.4 percent, 3.6 percent, and 3.0 percent of purchases in that line of business for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Outstanding Farm & Ranch loans, USDA Securities, and AgVantage securities purchased from Zions represented 5.9 percent and 5.1 percent, respectively, of Farmer Mac's outstanding business volume as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Zions retained servicing fees of $8.4 million, $7.0 million, and $6.5 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, for its work as a Farmer Mac servicer.
	Farmer Mac and Zions were parties to interest rate swap contracts having an aggregate outstanding notional amount of approximately $29.3 million as of December 31, 2013.  As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac had net interest payable to Zions under those contracts of approximately $0.3 million. There were no interest rate swap contracts outstanding between Farmer Mac and Zions as of December 31, 2014. Zions acted as dealer for $5.0 million par value of Farmer Mac medium term notes during 2014 and none for 2013 and 2012. The related commissions Farmer Mac paid to Zions for these services were immaterial.
	The National Rural Utilities Cooperative Financial Corporation:
	Farmer Mac considers the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Financial Corporation ("CFC") a related party due to its ownership of approximately 7.9 percent of Class A voting common stock. The following transactions occurred between Farmer Mac and CFC during 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 3.2
	Farmer Mac Loan Purchases and Guarantees
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Unpaid Principal Balance:
	Loans	$	75,500	$	86,965	$	166,117
	On-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	820,775		820,000		383,406
	Off-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	7,190		—		—
	Total purchases and guarantees	$	903,465	$	906,965	$	549,523
	The transactions with CFC represented 100 percent of Farmer Mac's loan purchase volume under the Rural Utilities line of business for 2014, 2013, and 2012, represented 64.7 percent, 64.4 percent, and 38.9 percent of AgVantage securities volume under the Institutional Credit line of business for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and represented 32.7 percent, 29.4 percent, and 18.6 percent of total purchases for 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Of Farmer Mac's total outstanding business volume as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Rural Utilities loans and AgVantage securities issued by CFC represented 18.7 percent and 18.6 percent, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and for the year then ended, Farmer Mac had guarantee fees receivable of $0.3 million from CFC and earned guarantee fees of $3.2 million.  As of December 31, 2013 and for the year then ended, Farmer Mac had guarantee fees receivable of $0.7 million from CFC and earned guarantee fees of $4.1 million.  As of December 31, 2012 and for the year then ended, Farmer Mac had guarantee fees receivable of $0.7 million from CFC and earned guarantee fees of $4.4 million.
	Farmer Mac also had interest receivable of $0.9 million and $5.6 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and earned interest income of $12.7 million, $23.7 million, and $28.0 million during 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, related to its AgVantage transactions with CFC.
	CFC retained servicing fees of $3.4 million in both 2014 and 2013 and $3.0 million in 2012 for its work as a Farmer Mac central servicer.
	AgFirst Farm Credit Bank:
	Farmer Mac has a related party relationship with AgFirst Farm Credit Bank ("AgFirst") resulting from AgFirst being a holder of approximately 16.8 percent of Farmer Mac Class B voting common stock.
	AgFirst entered into $19.7 million, $8.1 million, and $16.8 million of LTSPC transactions in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and the aggregate balance of LTSPCs outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $112.8 million and $131.8 million, respectively. Farmer Mac received from AgFirst $0.6 million, $0.7 million, and $0.8 million in commitment fees in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and had $0.1 million of commitment fees receivable as of both December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	AgFirst owns certain securities backed by rural housing loans for which Farmer Mac is the second-loss guarantor for the last ten percent.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the outstanding balance of those securities owned by AgFirst was $28.9 million and $121.9 million, respectively.  Farmer Mac received guarantee fees of $0.1 million in 2014 and $0.5 million in both 2013 and 2012 on those securities.
	Farm Credit Bank of Texas:
	Farmer Mac has a related party relationship with Farm Credit Bank of Texas resulting from the bank being a holder of approximately 7.7 percent of Farmer Mac Class B voting common stock. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, Farmer Mac did not enter into any new LTSPCs with Farm Credit Bank of Texas. Farmer Mac received from Farm Credit Bank of Texas commitment fees of $0.2 million in both 2014 and 2013 and $0.3 million in 2012. The aggregate amount of LTSPCs outstanding with Farm Credit Bank of Texas as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $51.5 million and $63.2 million, respectively. In 2014, 2013, and 2012, Farm Credit Bank of Texas retained $0.4 million, $0.5 million, and $0.6 million, respectively, in servicing fees for its work as a Farmer Mac central servicer.
	Farm Credit West:
	Farmer Mac had a related party relationship with Farm Credit West, ACA during 2012 resulting from a member of Farmer Mac's board of directors being the Executive Vice President of Farm Credit West. Effective in June 2012, Farm Credit West was no longer a related party because the Executive Vice President of Farm Credit West was no longer a member of Farmer Mac's board of directors. Amounts, where presented for 2012, represent activity for the entire year.
	During 2012, Farm Credit West entered into $8.1 million of new LTSPCs. Farmer Mac received from Farm Credit West commitment fees of $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. During 2003 and 2006, Farm Credit West, ACA converted $722.3 million and $129.0 million, respectively, of existing LTSPCs to Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities. The aggregate amount of LTSPCs outstanding as of December 31, 2012 was $95.4 million and the outstanding principal balance of the converted securities was $420.9 million. Farmer Mac understands that the current owner of some of those Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities is CoBank, FCB. Farmer Mac received $1.9 million in guarantee fees on those securities during 2012. In 2012, Farm Credit West retained $0.9 million in servicing fees for its work as a Farmer Mac central servicer.
	Other Related Party Transactions:
	Farmer Mac purchased $35.1 million, $61.6 million, and $37.1 million in loans from First Dakota National Bank in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Farmer Mac entered into no new LTSPCs in 2014, $1.0 million in 2013, and none in 2012, respectively with First Dakota National Bank. First Dakota National Bank retained servicing fees of $0.8 million, $0.6 million, and $0.5 million in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, for its work as a Farmer Mac servicer. Farmer Mac purchased $4.5 million, $9.3 million, and $4.4 million in USDA Securities from Bath State Bank in 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. Farmer Mac entered into $20.2 million, $27.5 million, $51.5 million of new LTSPCs with AgGeorgia and received $0.1 million of commitment fees during 2014, 2013, and 2012. These institutions had a related party relationship with Farmer Mac resulting from a member or former member of Farmer Mac's board of directors being affiliated with the entity.
	Farmer Mac owned $70.0 million of subordinated debt issued by CoBank as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $78.5 million par value of preferred stock as of December 31, 2013. CoBank called the preferred stock on October 1, 2014. Farmer Mac has a related party relationship with CoBank because CoBank is a major holder (32.6 percent) of Farmer Mac Class B voting common stock.

Investment_Securities

Investment Securities (Investment Securities [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]	INVESTMENT SECURITIES
	The following tables set forth information about Farmer Mac's investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 4.1
		As of December 31, 2014
		Amount Outstanding		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	46,600	$	—		$	46,600	$	—		$	(6,024	)	$	40,576
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	100,730		(74		)	100,656		283			(37		)	100,902
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	10,000		—			10,000		91			—			10,091
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	30,000		(10		)	29,990		35			—			30,025
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	605,053		3,431			608,484		4,712			(443		)	612,753
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (1)	853		3,542			4,395		3,807			—			8,202
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	70,000		—			70,000		—			(3,680		)	66,320
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	18,806		130			18,936		3			—			18,939
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	75,000		(10		)	74,990		—			(11		)	74,979
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	975,194		462			975,656		72			(16		)	975,712
	Total available-for-sale	1,932,236		7,471			1,939,707		9,003			(10,211		)	1,938,499
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	2,868		—			2,868		—			(2,179		)	689
	Total investment securities	$	1,935,104	$	7,471		$	1,942,575	$	9,003		$	(12,390	)	$	1,939,188
	-1	Fair value includes $7.3 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.
		As of December 31, 2013
		Amount Outstanding		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	74,100	$	—		$	74,100	$	—		$	(8,815	)	$	65,285
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	166,185		(217		)	165,968		195			(59		)	166,104
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	109,345		(3		)	109,342		445			(18		)	109,769
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	55,000		48			55,048		97			(4		)	55,141
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	612,413		4,336			616,749		4,955			(435		)	621,269
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (1)	1,173		3,966			5,139		3,518			—			8,657
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	70,000		—			70,000		—			(6,615		)	63,385
	Fixed rate GSE preferred stock	78,500		365			78,865		4,296			—			83,161
	Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	30,595		84			30,679		5			(3		)	30,681
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	523,691		294			523,985		107			(30		)	524,062
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	754,405		1,141			755,546		95			(8		)	755,633
	Total available-for-sale	2,475,407		10,014			2,485,421		13,713			(15,987		)	2,483,147
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	3,553		—			3,553		—			(2,625		)	928
	Total investment securities	$	2,478,960	$	10,014		$	2,488,974	$	13,713		$	(18,612	)	$	2,484,075
	-1	Fair value includes $7.4 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.
	During 2014, Farmer Mac received proceeds of $770.1 million from the sale of securities from its available-for-sale investment portfolio, resulting in gross realized gains of $0.6 million and gross realized losses of $0.8 million. During 2013, Farmer Mac received proceeds of $366.6 million from the sale of securities from its available-for-sale investment portfolio, resulting in gross realized gains of $3.1 million and gross realized losses of $1.0 million. During 2012, Farmer Mac received proceeds of $7.0 million from the sale of securities from its available-for-sale investment portfolio, resulting in gross realized gains of $28,000 and gross realized losses of $10,000.
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unrealized losses on available-for-sale investment securities were as follows:
	Table 4.2
		As of December 31, 2014
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—	$	—		$	40,576	$	(6,024	)
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	19,388		(37		)	—		—
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	76,100		(164		)	76,867		(279		)
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—		—			66,320		(3,680		)
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	74,980		(11		)	—		—
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	325,033		(16		)	—		—
	Total	$	495,501	$	(228	)	$	183,763	$	(9,983	)
		As of December 31, 2013
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
less than 12 months					more than 12 months
	Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
			Loss					Loss
	(in thousands)
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—	$	—		$	65,285	$	(8,815	)
Floating rate asset-backed securities	50,129		(59		)	—		—
Floating rate corporate debt securities	19,982		(18		)	—		—
Fixed rate corporate debt securities	10,058		(4		)	—		—
Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	161,960		(435		)	—		—
Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—		—			63,385		(6,615		)
Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	8,041		(3		)	—		—
Fixed rate senior agency debt	316,273		(30		)	—		—
Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	118,056		(8		)	—		—
Total	$	684,499	$	(557	)	$	128,670	$	(15,430	)
The unrealized losses presented above are principally due to a general widening of credit spreads from the dates of acquisition to December 31, 2014 and 2013, as applicable. The resulting decrease in fair values reflects an increase in the perceived risk by the financial markets related to those securities. As of December 31, 2014, all of the investment securities in an unrealized loss position either were backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government or had credit ratings of at least "AA+," except one that was rated "A-." As of December 31, 2013, all of the investment securities in an unrealized loss position either were backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government or had credit ratings of at least "AA+," except two that were rated "A-" and one that was rated "BBB+." The unrealized losses were on 35 and 64 individual investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
As of December 31, 2014, 15 of the securities in loss positions had been in loss positions for more than 12 months and had a total unrealized loss of $10.0 million. As of December 31, 2013, 7 of the securities in loss positions had been in loss positions for more than 12 months and had a total unrealized loss of $15.4 million.  Securities in unrealized loss positions for 12 months or longer have a fair value as of December 31, 2014 that is, on average, approximately 95 percent of their amortized cost basis. Farmer Mac believes that all of these unrealized losses are recoverable within a reasonable period of time by way of changes in credit spreads or maturity. Accordingly, Farmer Mac has concluded that none of the unrealized losses on these available-for-sale investment securities represents other-than-temporary impairment as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. Farmer Mac does not intend to sell these securities and it is not more likely than not that Farmer Mac will be required to sell the securities before recovery of the amortized cost basis.
Farmer Mac did not own any held-to-maturity investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac owned trading investment securities with an amortized cost of $2.9 million, a fair value of $0.7 million, and a weighted average yield of 4.24 percent. As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac owned trading investment securities with an amortized cost of $3.6 million, a fair value of $0.9 million, and a weighted average yield of 4.25 percent.
The amortized cost, fair value, and weighted average yield of available-for-sale investment securities by remaining contractual maturity as of December 31, 2014 are set forth below. Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities are included based on their final maturities, although the actual maturities may differ due to prepayments of the underlying assets.
Table 4.3
	As of December 31, 2014
	Available-for-Sale Securities
	Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
	Cost					Average
						Yield
	(dollars in thousands)
Due within one year	$	1,014,587	$	1,014,679		0.30%
Due after one year through five years	156,022		156,719			0.87%
Due after five years through ten years	261,556		262,917			0.85%
Due after ten years	507,542		504,184			1.00%
Total	$	1,939,707	$	1,938,499		0.60%

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities (Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]	FARMER MAC GUARANTEED SECURITIES AND USDA SECURITIES
	The following tables set forth information about on-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 5.1
		As of December 31, 2014
		Unpaid Principal Balance		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Held-to-maturity:
	AgVantage	$	1,785,340	$	9,280		$	1,794,620	$	6,211		$	(255	)	$	1,800,576
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	3,625,073	$	—		$	3,625,073	$	36,442		$	(29,853	)	$	3,631,662
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	27,831		(442		)	27,389		237			(7		)	27,619
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	3,652,904		(442		)	3,652,462		36,679			(29,860		)	3,659,281
	USDA Securities	1,717,813		3,162			1,720,975		11,850			(1,603		)	1,731,222
	Total available-for-sale	$	5,370,717	$	2,720		$	5,373,437	$	48,529		$	(31,463	)	$	5,390,503
	Trading:
	USDA Securities	$	38,412	$	2,748		$	41,160	$	114		$	(964	)	$	40,310
		As of December 31, 2013
		Unpaid Principal Balance		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	5,066,855	$	125		$	5,066,980	$	64,051		$	(60,665	)	$	5,070,366
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	21,089		(518		)	20,571		669			(6		)	21,234
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,087,944		(393		)	5,087,551		64,720			(60,671		)	5,091,600
	USDA Securities	1,590,433		4,585			1,595,018		2,753			(44,102		)	1,553,669
	Total available-for-sale	$	6,678,377	$	4,192		$	6,682,569	$	67,473		$	(104,773	)	$	6,645,269
	Trading:
	USDA Securities	$	55,373	$	4,972		$	60,345	$	193		$	(2,194	)	$	58,344
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unrealized losses on held-to-maturity and available-for-sale on-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities were as follows:
	Table 5.2
		As of December 31, 2014
		Held-to-Maturity and Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Held-to-maturity:
	AgVantage	$	547	$	(1	)	$	49,745	$	(254	)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	685,131	$	(13,115	)	1,460,089		$	(16,738	)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	3,720		(7		)	—		—
	USDA Securities	264,375		(1,549		)	97,817		(54		)
	Total available-for-sale	$	953,226	$	(14,671	)	$	1,557,906	$	(16,792	)
		December 31, 2013
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	1,157,656	$	(51,923	)	$	763,885	$	(8,742	)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	343		(6		)	—		—
	USDA Securities	1,070,816		(44,040		)	104,416		(62		)
	Total	$	2,228,815	$	(95,969	)	$	868,301	$	(8,804	)
	The unrealized losses presented above are principally due to higher interest rates from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 and 2013, as applicable. The credit exposure related to Farmer Mac's USDA Guarantees line of business is covered by the full faith and credit guarantee of the United States. The unrealized losses from AgVantage securities were on 2 held-to-maturity securities and 23 available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2014. The unrealized losses from AgVantage securities were on 27 available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014, 15 available-for-sale AgVantage securities had been in a loss position for more than 12 months with a total unrealized loss of $16.7 million. As of December 31, 2013, 13 available-for-sale AgVantage securities had been in a loss position for more than 12 months with a total unrealized loss of $8.7 million. AgVantage® is a registered trademark of Farmer Mac used to designate Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities that are general obligations of lenders secured by pools of eligible loans, with such Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities referred to herein as AgVantage securities. Each AgVantage security backed by agricultural mortgages requires some level of overcollateralization, or, in the case of rural utilities loans, 100 percent collateralization, and is secured by eligible loans of the issuing institution with a requirement that delinquent loans be removed from the collateral pool and then replaced with current eligible loans. Thus, Farmer Mac does not believe it will realize any of the losses presented above. Farmer Mac has concluded that none of the unrealized losses on its held-to-maturity Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and available-for-sale Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities are other-than-temporary impairment as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Farmer Mac does not intend to sell these securities, and it is not more likely than not that Farmer Mac will be required to sell the securities before recovery of the amortized cost basis.
	During 2014, 2013, and 2012, Farmer Mac realized no gains or losses from the sale of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
	The amortized cost, fair value, and weighted average yield of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities by remaining contractual maturity as of December 31, 2014 are set forth below. The balances presented are based on their final maturities, although the actual maturities may differ due to prepayments of the underlying assets.
	Table 5.3
		As of December 31, 2014
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
Cost		Average
		Yield
	(dollars in thousands)
Due within one year	$	109,217	$	106,395		0.93	%
Due after one year through five years	1,686,323		1,708,230			1.84	%
Due after five years through ten years	1,449,257		1,455,096			1.72	%
Due after ten years	2,128,640		2,120,782			2.57	%
Total	$	5,373,437	$	5,390,503		2.07	%
	As of December 31, 2014
	Held-to-Maturity Securities
	Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
	Cost					Average
						Yield
	(dollars in thousands)
Due within one year	$	606,442	$	606,627		2.74	%
Due after one year through five years	1,178,000		1,183,351			2.23	%
Due after five years through ten years	10,178		10,598			3.25	%
Total	$	1,794,620	$	1,800,576		2.4	%
Farmer Mac did not own any held-to-maturity Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities or USDA Securities as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac owned trading USDA Securities with an amortized cost of $41.2 million, a fair value of $40.3 million, and a weighted average yield of 5.60 percent. As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac owned trading USDA Securities with an amortized cost of $60.3 million, a fair value of $58.3 million, and a weighted average yield of 5.60 percent.

Financial_Derivatives

Financial Derivatives	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure	FINANCIAL DERIVATIVES
	Farmer Mac enters into financial derivative transactions principally to protect against risk from the effects of market price or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets, future cash flows, or debt issuance, and not for trading or speculative purposes.  Certain financial derivatives are designated as fair value hedges of fixed rate assets classified as available-for-sale to protect against fair value changes in the assets related to a benchmark interest rate (i.e., LIBOR). Other financial derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges to mitigate the volatility of future interest rate payments on floating rate debt.
	Farmer Mac manages the interest rate risk related to loans it has committed to acquire, but has not yet permanently funded, through the use of forward sale contracts on the debt of other GSEs and futures contracts involving U.S. Treasury securities. Farmer Mac uses forward sale contracts on GSE securities to reduce its interest rate exposure to changes in both U.S. Treasury rates and spreads on Farmer Mac debt.  The notional amounts of these contracts are determined based on a duration-matched hedge ratio between the hedged item and the hedge instrument. Gains or losses generated by these hedge transactions are expected to offset changes in funding costs.
	All financial derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value as a freestanding asset or liability. Changes in the fair values of financial derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges are reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. For financial derivatives designated in fair value hedging relationships, changes in the fair values of the hedged items related to the risk being hedged are also reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. For financial derivatives designated in cash flow hedging relationships, the effective portion of the derivative gain/loss is recorded in other comprehensive income; amounts are disclosed as a reclassification out of other comprehensive income when the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of designated hedge transactions is recognized immediately in"(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations.
	Market Risk:
	Market risk is the risk of an adverse effect resulting from changes in interest rates or spreads on the value of a financial instrument.  Farmer Mac manages market risk associated with financial derivatives by establishing and monitoring limits as to the degree of risk that may be undertaken.  This risk is periodically measured as part of Farmer Mac's overall risk monitoring processes, which include market value of equity measurements, net interest income modeling, and other measures.
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac's credit exposure to interest rate swap counterparties, excluding netting arrangements and any adjustment for nonperformance risk, but including accrued interest, was $6.1 million and $25.1 million, respectively; however, including netting arrangements and accrued interest, Farmer Mac's credit exposure was $0.4 million and $3.3 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac held no cash as collateral for its derivatives in net asset positions, resulting in uncollateralized net asset positions of $0.4 million and $3.0 million, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the fair value of Farmer Mac's derivatives in a net liability position including accrued interest but excluding netting arrangements and any adjustment for nonperformance risk, was $99.4 million and $92.0 million, respectively; however, including netting arrangements and accrued interest, the fair value of Farmer Mac's derivatives in a net liability position at the counterparty level, was $93.4 million and $74.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Farmer Mac posted cash of $46.6 million and no investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and posted cash of $9.8 million and investment securities with a fair value of $1.5 million as of December 31, 2013 as collateral for its derivatives in net liability positions.  Farmer Mac records posted cash as a reduction in the outstanding balance of cash and cash equivalents and an increase in the balance of prepaid expenses and other assets. The investment securities posted as collateral are included in the investment securities balances on the consolidated balance sheets.  If Farmer Mac had breached certain provisions of the derivative contracts as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, it could have been required to settle its obligations under the agreements or post additional collateral of $46.8 million and $63.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no financial derivatives in a net payable position where Farmer Mac was required to pledge collateral which the counterparty had the right to sell or repledge.
	Effective in second quarter 2013, Farmer Mac expanded its use of centrally-cleared derivatives by clearing certain interest rate swaps through a clearinghouse. Farmer Mac posts initial and variation margin to the clearinghouses through which centrally-cleared derivatives and futures contracts are traded. These collateral postings expose Farmer Mac to institutional credit risk in the event that either the clearinghouse or the futures commission merchant that Farmer Mac uses to post collateral to the clearinghouse fails to meet its obligations. Conversely, the use of centrally-cleared derivatives mitigates Farmer Mac's credit risk to individual counterparties because clearinghouses assume the credit risk among counterparties in centrally-cleared derivatives transactions. Of Farmer Mac's $6.8 billion notional amount of interest rate swaps outstanding as of December 31, 2014, $4.0 billion were cleared through swap clearinghouses. Of Farmer Mac's $6.6 billion notional amount of interest rate swaps outstanding as of December 31, 2013, $2.3 billion were cleared through swap clearinghouses.
	The following tables summarize information related to Farmer Mac's financial derivatives on a gross basis without giving consideration to master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the effects of financial derivatives on the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 6.1
		As of December 31, 2014
					Fair Value						Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-
											Average	Average Receive Rate	Average	Average
											Pay Rate		Forward	Remaining
		Notional Amount			Asset			(Liability)					Price	Life (in years)
		(dollars in thousands)
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	$	1,000,000		$	—		$	(31,718	)	2.47%	0.23%		3.98
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	15,000			—			(289		)	2.43%	0.51%		6.23
	No hedge designation:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	490,183			537			(51,224		)	4.23%	0.23%		7.05
	Receive fixed non-callable	3,829,355			3,414			(461		)	0.14%	0.27%		0.55
	Receive fixed callable	383,565			1			(877		)	0.12%	1.34%		3.47
	Basis swaps	1,105,000			247			(406		)	0.11%	0.31%		2.42
	Agency forwards	12,768			—			(53		)			101
	Treasury futures	1,700			—			(3		)			126.6
	Credit valuation adjustment				(22		)	187
	Total financial derivatives	$	6,837,571		$	4,177		$	(84,844	)
	Collateral pledged				—			46,627
	Net amount				$	4,177		$	(38,217	)
		As of December 31, 2013
					Fair Value						Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-
											Average	Average Receive Rate	Average	Average
											Pay Rate		Forward	Remaining
		Notional Amount			Asset			(Liability)					Price	Life (in years)
		(dollars in thousands)
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	$	900,000		$	—		$	(28,989	)	2.25%	0.24%		3.25
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	10,000			68			—			2.50%	0.48%		6.95
	No hedge designation:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	806,596			7,570			(45,360		)	4.63%	0.24%		4.86
	Receive fixed non-callable	4,324,663			11,836			(262		)	0.27%	0.70%		0.53
	Receive fixed callable	175,000			83			(934		)	0.10%	0.65%		3.3
	Basis swaps	404,288			276			(318		)	0.32%	0.29%		1.52
	Agency forwards	65,704			86			—					98.91
	Treasury futures	5,600			—			(1		)			123.02
	Credit valuation adjustment				(201		)	156
	Total financial derivatives	$	6,691,851		$	19,718		$	(75,708	)
	Collateral pledged				—			11,320
	Net amount				$	19,718		$	(64,388	)
	Table 6.2
		(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate swaps (1)	$	(2,729	)	$	29,538		$	(404	)
Hedged items	14,520			(18,230		)	6,388
Gains on hedging activities	11,791			11,308			5,984
No hedge designation:
Interest rate swaps	(31,111		)	21,355			(24,763		)
Agency forwards	(1,842		)	(1,002		)	(828		)
Treasury futures	(484		)	103			(129		)
Credit default swaps	—			—			(93		)
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives not designated in hedging relationships	(33,437		)	20,456			(25,813		)
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	$	(21,646	)	$	31,764		$	(19,829	)
-1	Included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness as of December 31, 2014, but excluded from the amounts in the table, were losses of $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship. Accordingly, the amounts recognized as hedge ineffectiveness for the year ended December 31, 2014 were losses of $0.2 million. The comparable amounts as of December 31, 2013 were losses of $11.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship and, accordingly, gains of $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, attributable to hedge ineffectiveness. The comparable amounts as of December 31, 2012 were losses of $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship and, accordingly, gains of $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, attributable to hedge ineffectiveness.

Notes_Payable_NOTES_PAYABLE

Notes Payable - NOTES PAYABLE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	TES PAYABLE
	Farmer Mac's borrowings consist of discount notes and medium-term notes, both of which are unsecured general obligations of Farmer Mac.  Discount notes generally have original maturities of 1 year or less, whereas medium-term notes generally have maturities of 6 months to 15 years.
	The following tables set forth information related to Farmer Mac's borrowings as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 7.1
		31-Dec-14
		Outstanding as of December 31						Average Outstanding During the Year
		Amount			Rate			Amount		Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year:
	Discount notes	$	4,925,828		0.11	%		$	4,059,708	0.15	%
	Medium-term notes	754,988			0.17	%		532,621		0.15	%
	Current portion of long-term notes	1,673,137			0.98	%
	Total due within one year	$	7,353,953		0.32	%
	Due after one year:
	Medium-term notes due in:
	2016	$	1,569,961		1.16	%
	2017	1,219,192			0.9	%
	2018	682,224			1.28	%
	2019	872,576			1.42	%
	Thereafter	1,127,233			3.09	%
	Total due after one year	5,471,186			1.56	%
	Total	$	12,825,139		0.85	%
		December 31, 2013
		Outstanding as of December 31						Average Outstanding During the Year
		Amount			Rate			Amount		Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year:
	Discount notes	$	4,880,971		0.12	%		$	4,365,045	0.18	%
	Medium-term notes	179,999			0.17	%		167,617		0.16	%
	Current portion of long-term notes	2,277,811			1.79	%
		$	7,338,781		0.64	%
	Due after one year:
	Medium-term notes due in:
	2015	$	1,411,140		1.14	%
	2016	1,290,629			1.33	%
	2017	528,322			1.23	%
	2018	675,968			1.33	%
	Thereafter	1,095,110			2.85	%
	Total due after one year	5,001,169			1.6	%
	Total	$	12,339,950		1.03	%
	The maximum amount of Farmer Mac's discount notes outstanding at any month end during each of the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $4.9 billion.
	Callable medium-term notes give Farmer Mac the option to redeem the debt at par value on a specified call date or at any time on or after a specified call date.  The following table summarizes by maturity date the amounts and costs for Farmer Mac debt callable in 2015 as of December 31, 2014:
	Table 7.2
	Debt Callable in 2015 as of December 31, 2014
	Maturity		Amount			Rate
	(dollars in thousands)
	2016		$	78,960		0.57	%
	2017		507,893			0.48	%
	2018		149,944			0.92	%
	2019		402,393			1.02	%
	Thereafter		279,157			2.64	%
			$	1,418,347		1.11	%
	The following schedule summarizes the earliest interest rate reset date of total borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2014 , including callable and non-callable medium-term notes, assuming callable notes are redeemed at the initial call date:
	Table 7.3
		Earliest Interest Rate Reset Date of Borrowings Outstanding
		Amount			Weighted-Average Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Debt with interest rate resets in:
	2015	$	8,887,288		0.44%
	2016	1,391,014			1.26%
	2017	711,299			1.19%
	2018	532,279			1.38%
	2019	470,183			1.76%
	Thereafter	833,076			3.29%
Total	$	12,825,139		0.85%
During 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac called $0.5 billion and $0.4 billion of callable medium-term notes, respectively.
Authority to Borrow from the U.S. Treasury
Farmer Mac's statutory charter authorizes it to borrow up to $1.5 billion from the U.S. Treasury through the issuance of debt obligations to the U.S. Treasury. Any funds borrowed from the U.S. Treasury may be used solely for the purpose of fulfilling Farmer Mac's guarantee obligations.  Any debt obligations issued by Farmer Mac under this authority would bear interest at a rate determined by the U.S. Treasury, taking into consideration the average rate on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States as of the last day of the last calendar month ending before the date of the purchase of the obligations from Farmer Mac.  The charter requires Farmer Mac to repurchase any of its debt obligations held by the U.S. Treasury within a reasonable time.  As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac had not used this borrowing authority and does not expect to use this borrowing authority in the future.
Gains on Repurchase of Outstanding Debt
No outstanding debt repurchases were made in 2014 or 2012. In 2013, Farmer Mac repurchased $29.1 million of outstanding debt at a gain of $1.5 million.

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses and Concentration Risk Disclosure	LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES
	Loans
	Farmer Mac classifies loans as either held for investment or held for sale. Loans held for investment are recorded at the unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized premium or discount and other cost adjustments. Loans held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or fair value determined on a pooled basis. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac had no loans held for sale. The following table displays the composition of the loan balances as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.1
		As of December 31, 2014									As of December 31, 2013
		Unsecuritized			In Consolidated Trusts			Total			Unsecuritized			In Consolidated Trusts			Total
		(in thousands)
	Farm & Ranch	$	2,118,867		$	421,355		$	2,540,222		$	1,875,958		$	259,509		$	2,135,467
	Rural Utilities	718,213			267,396			985,609			698,010			354,241			1,052,251
	Total unpaid principal balance (1)	2,837,080			688,751			3,525,831			2,573,968			613,750			3,187,718
	Unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments	(3,619		)	3,727			108			(3,843		)	16,239			12,396
	Total loans	2,833,461			692,478			3,525,939			2,570,125			629,989			3,200,114
	Allowance for loan losses	(5,324		)	(540		)	(5,864		)	(6,587		)	(279		)	(6,866		)
	Total loans, net of allowance	$	2,828,137		$	691,938		$	3,520,075		$	2,563,538		$	629,710		$	3,193,248
	-1	Unpaid principal balance is the basis of presentation in disclosures of outstanding balances for Farmer Mac's lines of business.
	Allowances for Losses
	Farmer Mac maintains an allowance for losses presented in two components on its consolidated balance sheets: an allowance for loan losses to account for estimated probable losses on loans held, and a reserve for losses to account for estimated probable losses on loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac recorded allowances for losses of $10.1 million and $13.3 million, respectively. See Note 5 and Note 12 for more information about Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.
	The following is a summary of the changes in the allowance for losses for each year in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014:
	Table 8.2
		Allowance			Reserve			Total
		for Loan			for Losses			Allowance
		Losses						for Losses
		(in thousands)
	Balance as of January 1, 2012	$	10,161		$	7,355		$	17,516
	Provision for/(release of) losses	3,691			(1,816		)	1,875
	Charge-offs	(2,501		)	—			(2,501		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	11,351		$	5,539		$	16,890
	(Release of)/provision for losses	(481		)	929			448
	Charge-offs	(4,004		)	—			(4,004		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	6,866		$	6,468		$	13,334
	Release of losses	(961		)	(2,205		)	(3,166		)
	Charge-offs	(86		)	—			(86		)
	Recoveries	45			—			45
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	5,864		$	4,263		$	10,127
	During 2014, Farmer Mac recorded releases from its allowance for loan losses of $1.0 million and releases from its reserve for losses of $2.2 million, primarily related to a decrease in the balance of its ethanol loans as well as a general improvement in the quality of the ethanol loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs. Farmer Mac recorded $0.1 million of charge-offs and recoveries of $45,000 to its allowance for loan losses during 2014.
	During 2013, Farmer Mac recorded releases from its allowance for loan losses of $0.5 million and provisions to its reserve for losses of $0.9 million. Farmer Mac also recorded $4.0 million of charge-offs to its allowance for loan losses during 2013. Charge-offs recorded during 2013 included a $3.6 million charge-off related to one ethanol loan that transitioned to real estate owned ("REO") for which Farmer Mac had previously provided a specific allowance.
	During 2012, Farmer Mac recorded provisions to its allowance for loan losses of $3.7 million and releases from its reserve for losses of $1.8 million. In fourth quarter 2012, Farmer Mac purchased one defaulted ethanol loan pursuant to the terms of an LTSPC agreement. This resulted in the reclassification of a specific allowance of $3.2 million from the reserve for losses to the allowance for loan losses. The provision for/(release of) losses for 2012 reflects this reclassification as well as an increase in the specific allowance for this loan during 2012 prior to purchase. Farmer Mac also recorded charge-offs of $2.5 million to its allowance for loan losses during 2012.
	The following tables present the changes in the total allowance for losses for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 by commodity type:
	Table 8.3
		31-Dec-14
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	For the Year Ended:
	Beginning Balance	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
	Provision for/(release of) losses	395			(72		)	209			42			(3,740		)	—			(3,166		)
	Charge-offs	—			—			(57		)	(29		)	—			—			(86		)
	Recoveries	—			45			—			—			—			—			45
	Ending Balance	$	2,519		$	2,159		$	1,423		$	467		$	3,552		$	7		$	10,127
		31-Dec-13
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	For the Year Ended:
	Beginning Balance	$	2,589		$	2,316		$	1,534		$	784		$	9,661		$	6		$	16,890
	(Release of)/provision for losses	(420		)	(130		)	(263		)	4			1,256			1			448
	Charge-offs	(45		)	—			—			(334		)	(3,625		)	—			(4,004		)
	Ending Balance	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
	The following tables present the unpaid principal balances of loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and the related total allowance for losses by impairment method and commodity type as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.4
	As of December 31, 2014
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Ending Balance:
Collectively evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	1,621,360		$	359,517		$	406,049		$	57,851		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,473,780
Off-balance sheet	1,305,141			521,535			839,286			102,857			85,357			6,781			2,860,957
Total	$	2,926,501		$	881,052		$	1,245,335		$	160,708		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,334,737
Individually evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	12,307		$	35,904		$	6,571		$	11,660		$	—		$	—		$	66,442
Off-balance sheet	2,458			3,239			8,712			1,586			—			—			15,995
Total	$	14,765		$	39,143		$	15,283		$	13,246		$	—		$	—		$	82,437
Total Farm & Ranch loans:
On-balance sheet	$	1,633,667		$	395,421		$	412,620		$	69,511		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,540,222
Off-balance sheet	1,307,599			524,774			847,998			104,443			85,357			6,781			2,876,952
Total	$	2,941,266		$	920,195		$	1,260,618		$	173,954		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,417,174
Allowance for Losses:
Collectively evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	1,824		$	495		$	658		$	51		$	503		$	—		$	3,531
Off-balance sheet	298			149			404			52			3,049			7			3,959
Total	$	2,122		$	644		$	1,062		$	103		$	3,552		$	7		$	7,490
Individually evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	283		$	1,410		$	328		$	312		$	—		$	—		$	2,333
Off-balance sheet	114			105			33			52			—			—			304
Total	$	397		$	1,515		$	361		$	364		$	—		$	—		$	2,637
Total Farm & Ranch loans:
On-balance sheet	$	2,107		$	1,905		$	986		$	363		$	503		$	—		$	5,864
Off-balance sheet	412			254			437			104			3,049			7			4,263
Total	$	2,519		$	2,159		$	1,423		$	467		$	3,552		$	7		$	10,127
	As of December 31, 2013
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Ending Balance:
Collectively evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	1,363,861		$	295,037		$	319,665		$	39,940		$	32,636		$	359		$	2,051,498
Off-balance sheet	1,279,887			567,932			912,397			109,884			138,282			8,159			3,016,541
Total	$	2,643,748		$	862,969		$	1,232,062		$	149,824		$	170,918		$	8,518		$	5,068,039
Individually evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	21,147		$	41,441		$	10,844		$	10,422		$	—		$	115		$	83,969
Off-balance sheet	1,962			3,414			3,199			2,497			—			—			11,072
Total	$	23,109		$	44,855		$	14,043		$	12,919		$	—		$	115		$	95,041
Total Farm & Ranch loans:
On-balance sheet	$	1,385,008		$	336,478		$	330,509		$	50,362		$	32,636		$	474		$	2,135,467
Off-balance sheet	1,281,849			571,346			915,596			112,381			138,282			8,159			3,027,613
Total	$	2,666,857		$	907,824		$	1,246,105		$	162,743		$	170,918		$	8,633		$	5,163,080
Allowance for Losses:
Collectively evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	1,321		$	325		$	436		$	20		$	2,290		$	—		$	4,392
Off-balance sheet	397			159			642			42			5,002			4			6,246
Total	$	1,718		$	484		$	1,078		$	62		$	7,292		$	4		$	10,638
Individually evaluated for impairment:
On-balance sheet	$	362		$	1,641		$	140		$	331		$	—		$	—		$	2,474
Off-balance sheet	44			61			53			61			—			3			222
Total	$	406		$	1,702		$	193		$	392		$	—		$	3		$	2,696
Total Farm & Ranch loans:
On-balance sheet	$	1,683		$	1,966		$	576		$	351		$	2,290		$	—		$	6,866
Off-balance sheet	441			220			695			103			5,002			7			6,468
Total	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
The following tables present by commodity type the unpaid principal balances, recorded investment, and specific allowance for losses related to impaired loans and the recorded investment in loans on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Table 8.5
	As of December 31, 2014
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including
													ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Impaired Loans:
With no specific allowance:
Recorded investment	$	4,877		$	5,837		$	9,576		$	2,001		$	—		$	—		$	22,291
Unpaid principal balance	4,723			5,750			9,386			1,981			—			—			21,840
With a specific allowance:
Recorded investment (1)	10,753			33,690			5,979			11,350			—			—			61,772
Unpaid principal balance	10,042			33,393			5,897			11,265			—			—			60,597
Associated allowance	397			1,515			361			364			—			—			2,637
Total:
Recorded investment	15,630			39,527			15,555			13,351			—			—			84,063
Unpaid principal balance	14,765			39,143			15,283			13,246			—			—			82,437
Associated allowance	397			1,515			361			364			—			—			2,637
Recorded investment of loans on nonaccrual status (2)	$	5,168		$	14,413		$	4,438		$	6,133		$	—		$	—		$	30,152
-1	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $54.4 million (65 percent) of impaired loans as of December 31, 2014, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.2 million.
-2	Includes $11.7 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.
	As of December 31, 2013
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including
													ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Impaired Loans:
With no specific allowance:
Recorded investment	$	6,956		$	9,880		$	6,671		$	1,444		$	—		$	—		$	24,951
Unpaid principal balance	6,825			9,877			6,588			1,443			—			—			24,733
With a specific allowance:
Recorded investment (1)	16,697			36,146			7,600			11,554			—			119			72,116
Unpaid principal balance	16,284			34,978			7,455			11,476			—			115			70,308
Associated allowance	406			1,702			193			392			—			3			2,696
Total:
Recorded investment	23,653			46,026			14,271			12,998			—			119			97,067
Unpaid principal balance	23,109			44,855			14,043			12,919			—			115			95,041
Associated allowance	406			1,702			193			392			—			3			2,696
Recorded investment of loans on nonaccrual status (2)	$	10,812		$	15,237		$	5,344		$	5,835		$	—		$	—		$	37,228
-1	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $65.1 million (67 percent) of impaired loans as of December 31, 2013, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.3 million.
-2	Includes $9.6 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.
The following table presents by commodity type the average recorded investment and interest income recognized on impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Table 8.6
	31-Dec-14
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including
													ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
For the Year Ended:
Average recorded investment in impaired loans	$	20,625		$	43,221		$	13,543		$	12,596		$	—		$	24		$	90,009
Income recognized on impaired loans	373			474			327			359			—			—			1,533
	31-Dec-13
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including
													ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
For the Year Ended:
Average recorded investment in impaired loans	$	28,387		$	42,838		$	16,117		$	13,042		$	867		$	481		$	101,732
Income recognized on impaired loans	793			2,254			277			444			—			—			3,768
A modification to the contractual terms of a loan that results in granting a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties is considered a troubled debt restructuring ("TDR"). Farmer Mac has granted a concession when, as a result of the restructuring, it does not expect to collect all amounts due in a timely manner, including interest accrued at the original contract rate. In making its determination of whether a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties, Farmer Mac considers several factors, including whether (1) the borrower has declared or is in the process of declaring bankruptcy, (2) there is substantial doubt as to whether the borrower will continue to be a going concern, and (3) the borrower can obtain funds from other sources at an effective interest rate at or near a current market interest rate for debt with similar risk characteristics. Farmer Mac evaluates TDRs similarly to other impaired loans for purposes of the allowance for losses. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the recorded investment of loans determined to be TDRs was $5.3 million before restructuring and $6.0 million after restructuring. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the recorded investment of loans determined to be TDRs was $1.1 million both before and after restructuring. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the recorded investment of loans determined to be TDRs was $2.6 million before and $2.8 million after restructuring. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no TDRs identified during the previous 12 months that were in default under the modified terms. The impact of TDRs on Farmer Mac's allowance for loan losses was immaterial for the year ended December 31, 2014. The impact of TDRs on Farmer Mac's allowance for loan losses for the year ended December 31 2013, and 2012 was a provision of $0.1 million and a release of $0.3 million, respectively.
When particular criteria are met, such as the default of the borrower, Farmer Mac becomes entitled to purchase the defaulted loans underlying Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities (commonly referred to as "removal-of-account" provisions).  Farmer Mac records all such defaulted loans at their unpaid principal balance during the period in which Farmer Mac becomes entitled to purchase the loans and therefore regains effective control over the transferred loans. In accordance with the terms of all LTSPCs, Farmer Mac acquires loans that are either 90 days or 120 days delinquent (depending on the provisions of the applicable agreement) upon the request of the counterparty. Subsequent to the purchase, these defaulted loans are treated as nonaccrual loans and, therefore, interest is accounted for on the cash basis.  Any decreases in expected cash flows are recognized as impairment.
During 2014, Farmer Mac purchased 2 defaulted loans having an unpaid principal balance of $0.7 million, from pools underlying LTSPCs.  During 2013, Farmer Mac purchased 11 defaulted loans having an unpaid principal balance of $6.7 million from pools underlying Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs. During 2012, Farmer Mac purchased 15 defaulted loans having an unpaid principal balance of $17.0 million from pools underlying Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs.
The following tables present information related to Farmer Mac's acquisition of defaulted loans for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 and the outstanding balances and carrying amounts of all such loans as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
Table 8.7
	For the Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Unpaid principal balance at acquisition date:
Loans underlying LTSPCs	$	705		$	37		$	8,091
Loans underlying off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			6,667			8,933
Total unpaid principal balance at acquisition date	705			6,704			17,024
Contractually required payments receivable	705			6,907			17,432
Impairment recognized subsequent to acquisition	69			477			4,774
Recovery/release of allowance for defaulted loans	233			949			997
	As of December 31,
	2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Outstanding balance	$	24,921		$	32,838		$	41,737
Carrying amount	22,149			29,613			33,798
Net credit losses and 90-day delinquencies as of and for the periods indicated for loans held and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs are presented in the table below.  As of December 31, 2014, there were no delinquencies and no probable losses inherent in Farmer Mac's Rural Utilities loan portfolio and Farmer Mac had not experienced credit losses on any Rural Utilities loans.
Table 8.8
	90-Day Delinquencies (1)						Net Credit (Recoveries)/Losses
	As of December 31,						For the Year Ended December 31,
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2012
	(in thousands)
On-balance sheet assets:
Farm & Ranch:
Loans	$	18,427		$	27,580		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
Total on-balance sheet	$	18,427		$	27,580		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
Off-balance sheet assets:
Farm & Ranch:
LTSPCs	$	490		$	716		$	—		$	—		$	—
Total off-balance sheet	$	490		$	716		$	—		$	—		$	—
Total	$	18,917		$	28,296		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
-1	Includes loans and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs that are 90 days or more past due, in foreclosure, restructured after delinquency, or in bankruptcy, excluding loans performing under either their original loan terms or a court-approved bankruptcy plan.
Of the $18.4 million and $27.6 million of on-balance sheet loans reported as 90-day delinquencies as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, $1.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, were loans subject to "removal-of-account" provisions.
Credit Quality Indicators
Farmer Mac analyzes credit risk related to loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities based on internally assigned loan scores (i.e., risk ratings) that are derived by taking into consideration such factors as historical repayment performance, indicators of current financial condition, loan seasoning, loan size, and loan-to-value ratio. Loans are then classified into one of the following asset categories based on their underlying risk rating: acceptable; other assets especially mentioned; and substandard. Farmer Mac believes this analysis provides meaningful information regarding the credit risk profile of its Farm & Ranch portfolio as of each quarterly reporting period end date.
Farmer Mac also uses 90-day delinquency information to evaluate its credit risk exposure on these assets because historically it has been the best measure of borrower credit quality deterioration. Most of the loans held and underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities have annual (January 1) or semi-annual (January 1 and July 1) payment dates and are supported by less frequent and less predictable revenue sources, such as the cash flows generated from the maturation of crops, sales of livestock, and government farm support programs.  Taking into account the reduced frequency of payment due dates and revenue sources, Farmer Mac considers 90-day delinquency to be the most significant observation point when evaluating delinquency information.
The following tables present credit quality indicators related to Farm & Ranch loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Table 8.9
	As of December 31, 2014
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Credit risk profile by internally assigned grade (1)
On-balance sheet:
Acceptable	$	1,604,546		$	353,487		$	375,010		$	57,239		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,419,285
Special mention (2)	16,814			6,030			31,039			612			—			—			54,495
Substandard (3)	12,307			35,904			6,571			11,660			—			—			66,442
Total on-balance sheet	$	1,633,667		$	395,421		$	412,620		$	69,511		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,540,222
Off-Balance Sheet:
Acceptable	$	1,282,773		$	503,414		$	799,047		$	97,692		$	64,363		$	6,117		$	2,753,406
Special mention (2)	13,603			12,150			30,281			1,351			—			8			57,393
Substandard (3)	11,223			9,210			18,670			5,400			20,994			656			66,153
Total off-balance sheet	$	1,307,599		$	524,774		$	847,998		$	104,443		$	85,357		$	6,781		$	2,876,952
Total Ending Balance:
Acceptable	$	2,887,319		$	856,901		$	1,174,057		$	154,931		$	93,366		$	6,117		$	5,172,691
Special mention (2)	30,417			18,180			61,320			1,963			—			8			111,888
Substandard (3)	23,530			45,114			25,241			17,060			20,994			656			132,595
Total	$	2,941,266		$	920,195		$	1,260,618		$	173,954		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,417,174
Commodity analysis of past due loans (1)
On-balance sheet	$	4,175		$	6,869		$	4,555		$	2,828		$	—		$	—		$	18,427
Off-balance sheet	—			—			490			—			—			—			490
90-days or more past due	$	4,175		$	6,869		$	5,045		$	2,828		$	—		$	—		$	18,917
-1	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
-2	Assets in the Special mention category generally have potential weaknesses due to performance issues but are currently considered to be adequately secured.
-3	Substandard assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and there is a distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained if deficiencies are not corrected.
	As of December 31, 2013
	Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
				Plantings						Farm			Processing
													(including ethanol
													facilities)
	(in thousands)
Credit risk profile by internally assigned grade (1)
On-balance sheet:
Acceptable	$	1,348,205		$	290,064		$	300,308		$	39,022		$	10,987		$	359		$	1,988,945
Special Mention (2)	15,656			4,973			19,357			918			6,267			—			47,171
Substandard (3)	21,147			41,441			10,844			10,422			15,382			115			99,351
Total on-balance sheet	$	1,385,008		$	336,478		$	330,509		$	50,362		$	32,636		$	474		$	2,135,467
Off-Balance Sheet
Acceptable	$	1,251,834		$	548,254		$	844,130		$	105,589		$	99,072		$	7,478		$	2,856,357
Special Mention (2)	10,977			15,621			36,555			917			11,011			578			75,659
Substandard (3)	19,038			7,471			34,911			5,875			28,199			103			95,597
Total off-balance sheet	$	1,281,849		$	571,346		$	915,596		$	112,381		$	138,282		$	8,159		$	3,027,613
Total Ending Balance:
Acceptable	$	2,600,039		$	838,318		$	1,144,438		$	144,611		$	110,059		$	7,837		$	4,845,302
Special Mention (2)	26,633			20,594			55,912			1,835			17,278			578			122,830
Substandard (3)	40,185			48,912			45,755			16,297			43,581			218			194,948
Total	$	2,666,857		$	907,824		$	1,246,105		$	162,743		$	170,918		$	8,633		$	5,163,080
Commodity analysis of past due loans (1)
On-balance sheet	$	8,036		$	11,841		$	4,462		$	3,122		$	—		$	119		$	27,580
Off-balance sheet	220			—			—			496			—			—			716
90-days or more past due	$	8,256		$	11,841		$	4,462		$	3,618		$	—		$	119		$	28,296
-1	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
-2	Assets in the Special mention category generally have potential weaknesses due to performance issues but are currently considered to be adequately secured.
-3	Substandard assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and there is a distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained if deficiencies are not corrected.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
The following table sets forth the geographic and commodity/collateral diversification, as well as the range of original loan-to-value ratios, for all Farm & Ranch loans held and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:
Table 8.10
	As of December 31,
	2014			2013
	(in thousands)
By commodity/collateral type:
Crops	$	2,941,266		$	2,666,857
Permanent plantings	920,195			907,824
Livestock	1,260,618			1,246,105
Part-time farm	173,954			162,743
Ag. Storage and Processing (including ethanol facilities)	114,360			170,918
Other	6,781			8,633
Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
By geographic region (1):
Northwest	$	573,135		$	524,034
Southwest	1,753,606			1,752,109
Mid-North	1,873,041			1,702,668
Mid-South	627,615			601,359
Northeast	214,402			231,731
Southeast	375,375			351,179
Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
By original loan-to-value ratio:
0.00% to 40.00%	$	1,503,076		$	1,375,758
40.01% to 50.00%	1,191,804			1,099,033
50.01% to 60.00%	1,491,502			1,431,562
60.01% to 70.00%	1,091,759			1,113,427
70.01% to 80.00%	115,645			110,828
80.01% to 90.00%	23,388			32,472
Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
-1	Geographic regions:  Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY); Southwest (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT); Mid-North (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, NE, ND, SD, WI); Mid-South (AR, KS, LA, MO, OK, TX); Northeast (CT, DE, KY, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV); Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN).
The original loan-to-value ratio is calculated by dividing the loan principal balance at the time of guarantee, purchase, or commitment by the appraised value at the date of loan origination or, when available, the updated appraised value at the time of guarantee, purchase, or commitment.  Current loan-to-value ratios may be higher or lower than the original loan-to-value ratios.

Equity

Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Equity Disclosure	EQUITY
	Common Stock
	Farmer Mac has three classes of common stock outstanding:
	•	Class A voting common stock, which may be held only by banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions or similar entities that are not institutions of the Farm Credit System.  By federal statute, no holder of Class A voting common stock may directly or indirectly be a beneficial owner of more than 33 percent of the outstanding shares of Class A voting common stock.
	•	Class B voting common stock, which may be held only by institutions of the Farm Credit System.  There are no restrictions on the maximum holdings of Class B voting common stock.
	•	Class C non-voting common stock, which has no ownership restrictions.
	During 2014, 2013, and 2012, Farmer Mac paid a quarterly dividend of $0.14, $0.12, and $0.10, respectively, per share on all classes of its common stock. Farmer Mac's ability to declare and pay a dividend could be restricted if it fails to comply with applicable capital requirements.
	Preferred Stock
	On June 20, 2014, Farmer Mac issued 3.0 million shares of 6.000 percent Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series C (the "Series C Preferred Stock"). On March 25, 2014, Farmer Mac issued 3.0 million shares of 6.875 percent Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series B (the "Series B Preferred Stock"). On January 17, 2013, Farmer Mac issued 2.4 million shares of 5.875 percent Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series A (the "Series A Preferred Stock"). The Series A Preferred Stock, the Series B Preferred Stock, and the Series C Preferred Stock (collectively referred to as the "Outstanding Preferred Stock") each has a par value of $25.00 per share and a liquidation preference of $25.00 per share. The Series A Preferred Stock and the Series B Preferred Stock pay an annual dividend rate of 5.875 percent and 6.875 percent, respectively, for the life of the securities. The Series C Preferred Stock pays an annual dividend rate of 6.000 percent from the date of issuance to and including the quarterly payment date occurring on July 17, 2024, and thereafter, at a floating rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 3.26 percent. Farmer Mac has the right, but not the obligation, to redeem the Series A Preferred Stock at any time on and after January 17, 2018, the Series B Preferred Stock at any time on and after April 17, 2019, and the Series C Preferred Stock at any time on and after July 18, 2024, all at a price equal to the then-applicable liquidation preference. Dividends on all series of Outstanding Preferred Stock are non-cumulative, which means that if Farmer Mac's Board of Directors has not declared a dividend before the applicable dividend payment date for any dividend period, such dividend will not be paid or cumulate, and Farmer Mac will have no obligation to pay dividends for such dividend period, whether or not dividends on any series of Outstanding Preferred Stock are declared for any future dividend period. Farmer Mac incurred direct costs of $1.7 million related to the issuance of the Series A Preferred Stock, direct costs of $1.9 million related to the issuance of the Series B Preferred Stock, and direct costs of $1.6 million related to the issuance of the Series C Preferred Stock. Farmer Mac used the proceeds from the sale of the Series A Preferred Stock to redeem and retire on January 17, 2013 its then-outstanding shares of Series C Non-Voting Cumulative Preferred Stock, which is different than the Series C Preferred Stock that is currently outstanding and which had a par value and liquidation preference of $1,000 per share and had been issued in 2008 and 2009. As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac had 2.4 million shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding, 3.0 million shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding, and 3.0 million of Series C Preferred Stock outstanding.
	Farmer Mac's ability to declare and pay dividends on its preferred stock could be restricted if it fails to comply with applicable capital requirements. Farmer Mac's preferred stock is included as a component of core capital for regulatory and statutory capital compliance measurements.
	Non-Controlling Interest in Farmer Mac II LLC
	On January 25, 2010, Farmer Mac completed a private offering of $250.0 million of securities issued by a newly formed Delaware statutory trust.  The trust securities, called Farm Asset-Linked Capital Securities or "FALConS," represent undivided beneficial ownership interests in 250,000 shares of non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock (the "Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock") of Farmer Mac's subsidiary, Farmer Mac II LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.  The Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock has a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share. On May 14, 2014, Farmer Mac purchased $6.0 million of FALConS from certain holders.
	Dividends on the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock will be payable if, when, and as declared by Farmer Mac II LLC's board of directors, quarterly, on a non-cumulative basis, on March 30, June 30, September 30, and December 30 of each year.  From the date of issuance to but excluding the quarterly payment date occurring on March 30, 2015, the annual dividend rate on the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock will be 8.875 percent.  From March 30, 2015 to but excluding the quarterly payment date occurring on March 30, 2020, the annual dividend rate on the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock will be 10.875 percent.  Beginning on March 30, 2020, the dividend rate on the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock will be an annual rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 8.211 percent.  Dividends on the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock are non-cumulative, so dividends that are not declared for any payment date will not accrue.  Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock is presented as "Non-controlling interest – preferred stock" within equity on the consolidated balance sheets of Farmer Mac. The accrual of declared dividends is presented as "Net income attributable to non-controlling interest – preferred stock dividends" on the consolidated statements of operations on a pre-tax basis.  The consolidated tax benefit is included in income tax expense. Farmer Mac II LLC has provided notice of its intent to redeem the Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock on March 30, 2015, which will in turn trigger the redemption of all the outstanding FALConS securities on that same day. See Note 16 for more information on the announcement to redeem Farmer Mac II LLC Preferred Stock.
	Equity-based Incentive Compensation Plans
	Farmer Mac's 2008 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan authorizes the grants of restricted stock, stock options, and SARs, among other alternative forms of equity-based compensation, to directors, officers and other employees.  SARs awarded to officers and employees vest annually in thirds.  Farmer Mac has not granted SARs to directors since 2008. If not exercised or terminated earlier due to the termination of employment or service on the Board, SARs granted to officers or employees expire after 10 years.  For all SARs granted, the exercise price is equal to the closing price of the Class C non-voting common stock on the date of grant.  SARs granted during 2014 have exercise prices ranging from $29.37 to $35.60 per share, SARs granted during 2013 have exercise prices ranging from $30.20 to $37.17 per share, and SARS granted during 2012 have exercise prices ranging from $21.69 to $32.85 per share.  During 2014 and 2013, restricted stock awards were granted to directors with a vesting period of one year, to officers vesting in three years provided certain performance targets are met, and to officers and employees vesting annually in thirds. During 2012, restricted stock awards were granted to directors with a vesting period of one year, and restricted stock awards were granted to officers vesting in three years provided certain performance targets are met.
	The following tables summarize stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 9.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014						2013					2012
		Stock			Weighted-			Stock			Weighted-		Stock		Weighted-
		Options			Average			Options			Average		Options		Average
		and			Exercise			and			Exercise		and		Exercise
		SARs			Price			SARs			Price		SARs		Price
	Outstanding, beginning of year	664,245			$	23.78		788,748			$	20.89	1,327,066		$	18.72
	Granted	87,600			34.92			94,017			31.24		157,983		22.32
	Exercised	(23,035	)		20.83			(208,877	)		16.24		(427,348	)	13.18
	Canceled	(10,667	)		31.16			(9,643	)		23.02		(268,953	)	23.29
	Outstanding, end of year	718,143			25.12			664,245			23.78		788,748		20.89
	Exercisable at end of year	548,180			23.12			483,216			22.83		574,439		21.76
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014						2013					2012
		Non-vested			Weighted-			Non-vested			Weighted-		Non-vested		Weighted-
		Restricted			Average			Restricted			Average		Restricted		Average
		Stock			Grant Date			Stock			Grant Date		Stock		Grant Date
					Fair Value						Fair Value				Fair Value
	Outstanding, beginning of year	98,285			$	27.66		91,311			$	18.75	196,076		$	12.15
	Granted	57,590			33.88			73,985			30.27		72,637		21.92
	Canceled	(8,360	)		21.72			(1,000	)		31.42		(59,624	)	16.98
	Vested and issued	(43,743	)		28.48			(66,011	)		18.21		(117,778	)	10.62
	Outstanding, end of year	103,772			31.24			98,285			27.66		91,311		18.75
	The cancellations of stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock during 2014, 2013, and 2012 were due either to unvested awards terminating in accordance with the provisions of the applicable stock option plans upon directors' or employees' departures from Farmer Mac or failure to meet specified performance goals, or vested awards terminating unexercised on their expiration date.
	Farmer Mac receives cash when stock options are exercised. Cash is not received from exercises of SARs or the vesting and issuance of restricted stock. Farmer Mac received $0.2 million from the exercise of stock options during 2014, $1.9 million during 2013, and $2.9 million during 2012. During 2014, 2013, and 2012, the reduction of income taxes payable as a result of the deduction for the exercise of stock options and SARs and the vesting or accelerated tax elections of restricted stock was $0.6 million, $2.1 million, and $3.4 million, respectively.
	During 2014, Farmer Mac recorded a net reduction to additional paid-in capital of $41,000 related to stock-based compensation awards. During 2013 and 2012, Farmer Mac recorded a net increase to additional paid-in capital of $1.1 million and $1.4 million, respectively, related to stock-based compensation awards.
	Farmer Mac has a policy that permits directors of Farmer Mac to elect to receive shares of Class C non-voting common stock in lieu of cash retainers. During 2014, Farmer Mac issued 604 shares of Class C non-voting common stock with a fair value of $20,000 to the 5 directors who made that election. During 2013, Farmer Mac issued 842 shares of Class C non-voting common stock with a fair value of $26,000 to the 7 directors who made that election.  During 2012, Farmer Mac issued 649 shares of Class C non-voting common stock with a fair value of $15,000 to the 4 directors who made that election.  Fair values are determined based on the closing price of the Class C non-voting common stock as of the last business day of each quarter.
	The following tables summarize information regarding stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock outstanding as of December 31, 2014:
	Table 9.2
			Outstanding				Exercisable					Vested or Expected to Vest
	Range of		Stock Options and SARs			Weighted-	Stock Options and SARs			Weighted-		Stock Options and SARs	Weighted-
	Exercise Prices					Average Remaining Contractual Life				Average Remaining Contractual Life			Average Remaining Contractual Life
	$5.00 - $ 9.99		32,000			4.4 years	32,000			4.4 years		32,000	4.4 years
	10.00 - 14.99		66,665			5.4 years	66,665			5.4 years		66,665	5.4 years
	15.00 - 19.99		67,000			6.4 years	67,000			6.4 years		67,000	6.4 years
	20.00 - 24.99		127,703			4.9 years	101,036			4.3 years		125,295	4.9 years
	25.00 - 29.99		230,152			2.6 years	228,152			2.5 years		230,072	2.6 years
	30.00 - 34.99		136,623			7.6 years	53,327			6.2 years		132,349	7.6 years
	35.00 - 39.99		58,000			9.2 years	—			—		55,560	9.2 years
			718,143				548,180					708,941
			Outstanding				Expected to Vest
	Weighted-		Non-vested Restricted Stock			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual	Non-vested Restricted Stock			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual
	Average					Life				Life
	Grant-Date
	Fair Value
	20.00 - 24.99		12,000			0.2 years	11,160			0.2 years
	25.00 - 29.99		—			—	—			—
30.00 - 34.99		90,223			1.7 years	85,012			1.7 years
35.00 - 39.99		1,549			2.8 years	1,487			2.8 years
		103,772				97,659
The weighted average exercise price of the 708,941 options and SARs vested or expected to vest as of December 31, 2014 was $25.06.
As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the intrinsic value of options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock outstanding, exercisable, and vested or expected to vest was $7.2 million and $10.0 million, respectively.  During 2014, 2013, and 2012, the total intrinsic value of options and SARs exercised was $0.3 million, $3.8 million, and $7.4 million, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014, there was $3.0 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options, SARs, and restricted stock awards.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.
The weighted-average grant date fair values of options, SARs, and restricted stock awards granted in 2014, 2013, and 2012 were $21.11, $23.12, and $16.73 per share, respectively.  Under the fair value-based method of accounting for stock-based compensation cost, Farmer Mac recognized compensation expense of $2.9 million, $3.0 million, and $2.5 million during 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
The fair values of stock options and SARs were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model based on the following assumptions:
Table 9.3
	For the Year Ended December 31,
	2014		2013		2012
Risk-free interest rate	1.50%		0.60%		1.10%
Expected years until exercise	4 years		4 years		5 years
Expected stock volatility	49.70%		83.40%		94.60%
Dividend yield	1.60%		1.50%		1.80%
The risk-free interest rates used in the model were based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the grant date.  Farmer Mac used historical data to estimate the timing of option exercises and stock option cancellation rates used in the model.  Expected volatilities were based on historical volatility of Farmer Mac's Class C common stock.  The dividend yields were based on the expected dividends as a percentage of the value of Farmer Mac's Class C common stock on the grant date.
Because restricted stock awards will be issued upon vesting regardless of the stock price, expected stock volatility is not considered in determining grant date fair value.  Restricted stock awards also accrue dividends which are paid at vesting.  The weighted-average grant date fair value of the restricted stock awarded in 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $33.88, $30.27, and $21.92 per share, respectively, which was the closing price of the stock on the date granted.
Capital Requirements
Farmer Mac is subject to the following capital requirements:
•	Statutory minimum capital requirement – Farmer Mac's statutory minimum capital level is an amount of core capital (stockholders' equity less accumulated other comprehensive income plus non-controlling interest – preferred stock) equal to the sum of 2.75 percent of Farmer Mac's aggregate on-balance sheet assets, as calculated for regulatory purposes, plus 0.75 percent of the aggregate off-balance sheet obligations of Farmer Mac, specifically including:
◦	the unpaid principal balance of outstanding Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities;
◦	instruments issued or guaranteed by Farmer Mac that are substantially equivalent to Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, including LTSPCs; and
◦	other off-balance sheet obligations of Farmer Mac.
•	Statutory critical capital requirement – Farmer Mac's critical capital level is an amount of core capital equal to 50 percent of the total minimum capital requirement at that time.
•	Risk-based capital requirement – Farmer Mac's charter directs FCA to establish a risk-based capital stress test for Farmer Mac, using specified stress-test parameters.
Farmer Mac is required to comply with the higher of the minimum capital requirement and the risk-based capital requirement.
As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac's minimum and critical capital requirements were $421.3 million and $210.7 million, respectively, and its actual core capital level was $766.3 million, which was $345.0 million above the minimum capital requirement and $555.6 million above the critical capital requirement as of that date.  As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac's minimum and critical capital requirements were $398.5 million and $199.3 million, respectively, and its actual core capital level was $590.7 million, which was $192.2 million above the minimum capital requirement and $391.4 million above the critical capital requirement as of that date.
Based on the risk-based capital stress test, Farmer Mac's risk-based capital requirement as of December 31, 2014 was $121.6 million, and Farmer Mac's regulatory capital (core capital plus the allowance for losses) of $776.4 million exceeded that amount by approximately $654.8 million.  As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac's risk-based capital requirement was $90.8 million, and Farmer Mac's regulatory capital of $604.0 million exceeded that amount by approximately $513.2 million.
In accordance with FCA's rule on Farmer Mac's capital planning that became effective on January 3, 2014, and as part of Farmer Mac's capital plan, Farmer Mac has adopted a policy for maintaining a sufficient level of Tier 1 capital (consisting of retained earnings, paid-in-capital, common stock, qualifying preferred stock, and accumulated other comprehensive income allocable to investments not included in one of the four operating lines of business) and imposing restrictions on common stock dividends and any discretionary bonus payments in the event that this capital falls below specified thresholds.

Income_Taxes_INCOME_TAXES

Income Taxes - INCOME TAXES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	INCOME TAXES
	Farmer Mac is subject to federal income taxes but is exempt from state and local income taxes.  The components of the federal income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were as follows:
	Table 10.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Current income tax expense	$	9,803		$	27,082		$	24,138
	Deferred income tax (benefit)/expense	(6,979		)	6,670			(1,982		)
	Income tax expense	$	2,824		$	33,752		$	22,156
	A reconciliation of tax at the statutory federal tax rate to the income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:
	Table 10.2
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(dollars in thousands)
	Tax expense at statutory rate	$	25,587		$	45,943		$	31,891
	Non-taxable dividend income	(1,587		)	(2,116		)	(2,116		)
	Income from non-controlling interest	(7,766		)	(7,766		)	(7,766		)
	Valuation allowance	(13,542		)	(2,693		)	6
	Other	132			384			141
	Income tax expense	$	2,824		$	33,752		$	22,156
	Statutory tax rate	35		%	35		%	35		%
	The components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
	Table 10.3
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Deferred tax assets:
	Basis differences related to financial derivatives	$	30,921		$	22,349
	Basis differences related to securities	4,218			2,509
	Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities	—			8,762
	Allowance for losses	3,545			4,667
	Stock-based compensation	2,443			1,916
	Capital loss carryforwards	2,105			38,532
	Valuation allowance	(2,105		)	(36,432		)
	Amortization of premiums on capital investments	—			1,499
	Valuation allowance	—			(1,499		)
	Other	1,205			2,455
	Total deferred tax assets	42,332			44,758
	Deferred tax liability:
	Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities	8,448			—
	Basis difference in subsidiary	195			353
	Other	298			360
	Total deferred tax liability	8,941			713
	Net deferred tax asset	$	33,391		$	44,045
	A valuation allowance is required to reduce a deferred tax asset to an amount that is more likely than not to be realized.  Future realization of the tax benefit from a deferred tax asset depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character.  After the evaluation of both positive and negative objective evidence regarding the likelihood that its deferred tax assets will be realized, Farmer Mac established a valuation allowance of $2.1 million and $37.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, which was attributable to capital loss carryforwards on investment securities.  Farmer Mac did not establish a valuation allowance for the remainder of its deferred tax assets because it believes it is more likely than not that those deferred tax assets will be realized.  In determining its deferred tax asset valuation allowance, Farmer Mac considered its taxable income of the appropriate character (for example, ordinary income or capital gain) within the carryback and carryforward periods available under the tax law and the impact of possible tax planning strategies.  During 2014, Farmer Mac reduced its deferred tax valuation allowance by $13.5 million upon utilizing capital loss carryforwards. In addition, $63.7 million of capital loss carryforwards expired on December 31, 2014 and Farmer Mac removed $22.3 million of corresponding deferred tax assets and the related deferred tax asset valuation allowance. Deferred tax assets are measured at rates in effect when they arise. To the extent rates change, the deferred tax asset will be adjusted to reflect the new rate. A reduction in corporate tax rates would result in a reduction in the value of the deferred tax asset. As of December 31, 2014, the amount of capital loss carryforwards was $6.0 million.  Of these capital loss carryforwards, $0.1 million will expire in 2015 and $5.9 million in 2016.
	As of December 31, 2014 Farmer Mac did not identify any uncertain tax positions. As of December 31, 2013 both the recorded liability for uncertain tax positions and the corresponding deferred tax asset were $1.1 million.
	The following table presents the changes in unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 10.4
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Beginning balance	$	1,148		$	1,046		$	1,175
	Decreases based on tax positions related to prior years	(1,148		)	—			—
	Increases/(decreases) based on tax positions related to current year	—			102			(129		)
	Ending balance	$	—		$	1,148		$	1,046
	The resolution of the unrecognized tax benefits presented above represented temporary differences and, therefore, would not result in a change to Farmer Mac's effective tax rate.  As of December 31, 2013, accrued interest payable and the associated interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits was immaterial and was presented as a component of income taxes.  Farmer Mac does not expect to be subject to, and has not recorded tax penalties.  During 2014, the IRS examined Farmer Mac's uncertain tax positions reported in its 2011 tax return; as a result of the examination, Farmer Mac concluded it does not currently have any uncertain tax positions. Tax years 2012 through 2014 remain subject to examination.

Employee_Benefits_EMPLOYEE_BEN

Employee Benefits - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
	Farmer Mac makes contributions to a defined contribution retirement plan for all of its employees. Farmer Mac contributed 13.2 percent of the lesser of an employee's gross salary and the maximum compensation permitted under the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 ("EGTRRA") ($260,000 for 2014, $255,000 for 2013, and $250,000 for 2012), plus 5.7 percent of the difference between: (1) the lesser of the gross salary and the amount established under EGTRRA; and (2) the Social Security Taxable Wage Base. Employees are fully vested after having been employed for approximately 3 years.  Expense for this plan for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $1.2 million, $1.1 million, and $0.9 million, respectively.

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments Disclosure	OFF-BALANCE SHEET GUARANTEES AND LONG-TERM STANDBY PURCHASE COMMITMENTS
	Farmer Mac offers two credit enhancement alternatives to direct loan purchases that allow approved lenders the ability to retain the cash flow benefits of their loans and increase their liquidity and lending capacity: (1) Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, which are available through the Farm & Ranch, the USDA Guarantees, or the Rural Utilities lines of business, and (2) LTSPCs, which are available through the Farm & Ranch or the Rural Utilities lines of business. Farmer Mac records, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of its obligation to stand ready to perform under the terms of each guarantee and an asset that is equal to the fair value of the fees that will be received over the life of each guarantee. The fair values of the guarantee obligation and asset at inception are based on the present value of expected cash flows using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayment speeds, forward yield curves, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. Because the cash flows of these instruments may be interest rate path dependent, these values and projected discount rates are derived using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The guarantee obligation and corresponding asset are subsequently amortized into guarantee and commitment fee income in relation to the decline in the unpaid principal balance on the underlying agricultural real estate mortgage and rural utilities loans.
	The contractual terms of Farmer Mac's guarantees range from less than 1 year to 30 years.  However, the actual term of each guarantee may be significantly less than the contractual term based on the prepayment characteristics of the related agricultural real estate mortgage loans.  Farmer Mac's maximum potential exposure under these guarantees is comprised of the unpaid principal balance of the underlying agricultural real estate mortgage loans.  Guarantees issued or modified on or after January 1, 2003 are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets.  Farmer Mac's maximum potential exposure was $3.8 billion and $3.9 billion as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Farmer Mac's maximum potential exposure for guarantees issued prior to January 1, 2003, which are not recorded on the consolidated balance sheets, was $70.6 million and $108.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The maximum exposure from these guarantees is not representative of the actual loss Farmer Mac is likely to incur, based on historical loss experience.  In the event Farmer Mac was required to make payments under its guarantees, Farmer Mac would have the right to enforce the terms of the loans, and in the event of default, would have access to the underlying collateral.  For information on Farmer Mac's methodology for determining the reserve for losses for its financial guarantees, see Note 2(j) and Note 8.  The following table presents changes in Farmer Mac's guarantee and commitment obligations in the consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 12.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Beginning balance, January 1	$	39,667		$	37,803		$	27,440
	Additions to the guarantee and commitment obligation (1)	4,966			8,414			15,134
	Amortization of the guarantee and commitment obligation	(6,708		)	(6,550		)	(4,771		)
	Ending balance, December 31	$	37,925		$	39,667		$	37,803
	-1	Represents the fair value of the guarantee and commitment obligation at inception.
	Off-Balance Sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities
	Agricultural real estate mortgage loans, rural utilities loans, and other related assets may be placed into trusts that are used as vehicles for the securitization of the transferred assets and the Farmer Mac-guaranteed beneficial interests in the trusts are sold to investors.  Farmer Mac is obligated under its guarantee to ensure that the investors receive timely payments of principal and interest based on the underlying loans, regardless of whether the trust has actually received such scheduled loan payments.  As consideration for Farmer Mac's assumption of the credit risk on these securities, Farmer Mac receives guarantee fees that are recognized as earned on an accrual basis over the life of the loans and based upon the outstanding balance of the Farmer Mac Guaranteed Security.
	Farmer Mac is required to perform under its obligation when the underlying loans for the off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities do not make their scheduled installment payments.  When a loan underlying a Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Security becomes 90 days or more past due, Farmer Mac may, in its sole discretion, repurchase the loan from the trust and generally does repurchase such loans, thereby reducing the principal balance of the outstanding Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Security.
	The following table presents the maximum principal amount of potential undiscounted future payments that Farmer Mac could be required to make under all off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, not including offsets provided by any recourse provisions, recoveries from third parties, or collateral for the underlying loans:
	Table 12.2
	Outstanding Balance of Off-Balance Sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities
		As of December 31, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
		(in thousands)
	Farm & Ranch:
	Guaranteed Securities	$	636,086		$	765,751
	USDA Guarantees:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	13,978			20,222
	Institutional Credit:
	AgVantage Securities	986,528			981,009
	Total off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	$	1,636,592		$	1,766,982
	If Farmer Mac repurchases a loan that is collateral for a Farmer Mac Guaranteed Security, Farmer Mac would have the right to enforce the terms of the loan, and in the event of a default, would have access to the underlying collateral.  Farmer Mac typically recovers its investment in the defaulted loans purchased either through borrower payments, loan payoffs, payments by third parties, or foreclosure and sale of the property securing the loans.
	Farmer Mac has recourse to the USDA for any amounts advanced for the timely payment of principal and interest on Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities.  That recourse is the USDA guarantee, a full faith and credit obligation of the United States that becomes enforceable if a lender fails to repurchase the USDA-guaranteed portion from its owner within 30 days after written demand from the owner when (a) the borrower under the guaranteed loan is in default not less than 60 days in the payment of any principal or interest due on the USDA-guaranteed portion, or (b) the lender has failed to remit to the owner the payment made by the borrower on the USDA-guaranteed portion or any related loan subsidy within 30 days after the lender's receipt of the payment.
	Eligible loans and other eligible assets may be placed into trusts that are used as vehicles for the securitization of the transferred assets and the Farmer Mac-guaranteed beneficial interests in the trusts are sold to investors.  The following table summarizes the significant cash flows received from and paid to trusts used for Farmer Mac securitizations:
	Table 12.3
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Proceeds from new securitizations	$	175,754		$	150,417		$	38,063
	Guarantee fees received	4,612			5,182			5,197
	Purchases of assets from the trusts	—			(6,667		)	(8,933		)
	Farmer Mac has recorded a liability for its obligation to stand ready under the guarantee in the guarantee and commitment obligation on the consolidated balance sheets.  This liability approximated $11.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and $13.4 million as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the weighted-average remaining maturity of all loans underlying off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, excluding AgVantage securities, was 12.0 years and 12.8 years, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the weighted-average remaining maturity of the off-balance sheet AgVantage securities was 2.4 years and 3.4 years, respectively.
	Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments
	An LTSPC is a commitment by Farmer Mac to purchase eligible loans from an identified pool of loans under specified circumstances set forth in the applicable agreement, either for cash or in exchange for Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, on one or more undetermined future dates.  As consideration for its assumption of the credit risk on loans underlying an LTSPC, Farmer Mac receives a commitment fee payable monthly in arrears in an amount approximating what would have been the guarantee fee if the transaction were structured as a swap for Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.
	An LTSPC permits a lender to nominate from its portfolio an identified pool of loans for participation in the Farm & Ranch program, which are retained in the lender's portfolio and serviced by the lender.  Farmer Mac reviews the loan pool to confirm that it conforms to Farmer Mac's underwriting standards.  Upon Farmer Mac's approval of the eligible loans, the lender effectively transfers the credit risk on those loans to Farmer Mac, thereby reducing the lender's credit and concentration risk exposures and, consequently, its regulatory capital requirements and its loss reserve requirements.  Credit risk is transferred through Farmer Mac's commitment to purchase the identified loans from the counterparty based on Farmer Mac's original credit review and acceptance of the credit risk on the loans.
	The specific events or circumstances that would require Farmer Mac to purchase some or all of the loans subject to LTSPCs include: (1) the failure of the borrower under any loan to make installment payments under that loan for a period of either 90 days or 120 days (depending on the provisions of the applicable agreement); or (2) the determination by the holder of the LTSPC to sell or exchange some or all of the loans under the LTSPC to Farmer Mac.
	Farmer Mac purchases loans subject to an LTSPC at:
	•	par if the loans become delinquent for either 90 days or 120 days (depending on the agreement) or are in material non-monetary default, with accrued and unpaid interest on the defaulted loans payable out of any future loan payments or liquidation proceeds; or
	•	a mark-to-market price or in exchange for Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities (if the loans are not delinquent), in accordance with the terms of the applicable agreement.
	The maximum principal amount of potential undiscounted future payments that Farmer Mac could be requested to make under all LTSPCs, not including offsets provided by any recourse provisions, recoveries from third parties, or collateral for the underlying loans, was $2.2 billion as of December 31, 2014 and $2.3 billion as of December 31, 2013.
	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the weighted-average remaining maturity of all loans underlying LTSPCs was 14.3 years and 13.9 years, respectively.  For those LTSPCs issued or modified on or after January 1, 2003, Farmer Mac has recorded a liability for its obligation to stand ready under the commitment in the guarantee and commitment obligation on the consolidated balance sheets.  This liability approximated $26.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and $26.3 million as of December 31, 2013.
	Commitments
	Farmer Mac enters into mandatory and optional delivery commitments to purchase loans.  Most loan purchase commitments entered into by Farmer Mac are mandatory commitments, in which Farmer Mac charges a fee to extend or cancel the commitment.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, commitments to purchase Farm & Ranch loans and USDA Guarantees totaled $29.7 million and $54.8 million, respectively, all of which were mandatory commitments.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, commitments to purchase rural utilities loans totaled $4.0 million and $26.3 million, respectively.  Any optional loan purchase commitments are sold forward under optional commitments to deliver Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities that may be canceled by Farmer Mac without penalty.
	Farmer Mac is exposed to interest rate risk from the time it commits to purchase a loan to the time it either:  (1) sells Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities backed by the loan or (2) issues debt to retain the loan in its portfolio.  There were no commitments to sell Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Farmer Mac manages the interest rate risk related to loans not yet sold or funded as a retained investment through the use of forward sale contracts on the debt of other GSEs and futures contracts involving U.S. Treasury securities.  For more information on financial derivatives see Note 2(h) and Note 6.
	Rental expense for Farmer Mac's office space for each of the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $1.3 million.  The future minimum lease payments under Farmer Mac's non-cancellable leases for its office space and other contractual obligations are as follows:
	Table 12.4
		Future Minimum Lease Payments			Other Contractual Obligations
		(in thousands)
	2015	$	1,375		$	773
	2016	1,378			209
	2017	1,400			88
	2018	1,388			—
	2019	1,389			—
	Thereafter	6,951			—
	Total	$	13,881		$	1,070
	Other contractual obligations in the table above include minimum amounts due under non-cancellable agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and specify all significant terms.  These agreements include agreements for the provision of consulting services, information technology support, equipment maintenance, and financial analysis software and services.  The amounts actually paid under these agreements will likely be higher due to the variable components of some of these agreements under which the ultimate obligation owed is determined by reference to actual usage or hours worked.

Fair_Value_Disclosures

Fair Value Disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosure	FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES
	Fair Value Measurement
	Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (also referred to as an exit price). In determining fair value, Farmer Mac uses various valuation approaches, including market and income based approaches.  The fair value hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.  When available, the fair value of Farmer Mac's financial instruments is based on quoted market prices, valuation techniques that use observable market-based inputs, or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.  Pricing information obtained from third parties is internally validated for reasonableness prior to use in the consolidated financial statements. Farmer Mac's accounting policies for fair value measurement and a description of the fair value techniques used for instruments measured at fair value is discussed in Note 2(p).
	Fair value measurements related to financial instruments that are reported at fair value in the consolidated financial statements each period are referred to as recurring fair value measurements.  Fair value measurements related to financial instruments that are not reported at fair value each period but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances are referred to as nonrecurring fair value measurements.
	Fair Value Classification and Transfers
	The fair value hierarchy ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values.  The hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs.  The following three levels are used to classify fair value measurements:
	Level 1	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
	Level 2	Quoted prices in markets that are not active or financial instruments for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.
	Level 3	Prices or valuations that require unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement.
	Farmer Mac performs a detailed analysis of the assets and liabilities carried at fair value to determine the appropriate level based on the transparency of the inputs used in the valuation techniques.  In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy.  In such cases, an instrument's level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.  Farmer Mac's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement of an instrument requires judgment and consideration of factors specific to the instrument.  While Farmer Mac believes its valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with those of other market participants, using different methodologies or assumptions to determine fair value could result in a materially different estimate of fair value for some financial instruments.
	The following is a description of the fair value techniques used for instruments measured at fair value as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy described above.  Fair value measurements related to financial instruments that are reported at fair value in the consolidated financial statements each period are referred to as recurring fair value measurements.  Fair value measurements related to financial instruments that are not reported at fair value each period but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances are referred to as nonrecurring fair value measurements.
	Recurring Fair Value Measurements and Classification
	Available-for-Sale and Trading Investment Securities
	The fair value of investments in U.S. Treasuries is based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 1.
	For a significant portion of Farmer Mac's investment portfolio, including most asset-backed securities, corporate debt securities, senior agency debt securities, Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, and preferred stock issued by GSEs, fair value is primarily determined using a reputable and nationally recognized third party pricing service.  The prices obtained are non-binding and generally representative of recent market trades.  The fair value of certain asset-backed and Government guaranteed mortgage-backed securities are estimated based on quotations from brokers or dealers. Farmer Mac corroborates its primary valuation source by obtaining a secondary price from another independent third party pricing service.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 2.
	For certain investment securities that are thinly traded or not quoted, Farmer Mac estimates fair value using internally-developed models that employ a discounted cash flow approach.  Farmer Mac maximizes the use of observable market data, including prices of financial instruments with similar maturities and characteristics, interest rate yield curves, measures of volatility and prepayment rates.  Farmer Mac generally considers a market to be thinly traded or not quoted if the following conditions exist: (1) there are few transactions for the financial instruments; (2) the prices in the market are not current; (3) the price quotes vary significantly either over time or among independent pricing services or dealers; or (4) there is limited availability of public market information.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 3.
	Farmer Mac's investment securities include callable, highly rated auction-rate certificates ("ARCs"), the interest rates on which are reset through an auction process, most commonly at intervals of 28 days, or at formula-based floating rates as set forth in the related transaction documents in the event of a failed auction.  These formula-based floating rates, which may at times reset to zero, are intended to preserve the underlying principal balance of the securities and avoid overall cash shortfalls.  Accordingly, payments of accrued interest may also be delayed and are ultimately subject to cash availability. Beginning in mid-February 2008, there were widespread failures of the auction mechanism designed to provide regular liquidity to these types of securities.  Consequently, Farmer Mac has not sold any of its ARCs into the auctions since that time.  All ARCs held by Farmer Mac are collateralized entirely by pools of Federal Family Education Loan Program guaranteed student loans that are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States.  Farmer Mac continues to believe that the credit quality of these securities is high, based on the underlying collateralization and the securities' ratings.  To date, Farmer Mac has received all interest due on ARCs it holds and expects to continue to do so.
	Farmer Mac classifies its estimates of fair value for ARCs as level 3 measurements. Farmer Mac uses unadjusted quotes from a broker specializing in these types of securities to determine the estimated fair value of these investments as of each quarter end. Through periodic discussions with the broker, Farmer Mac gained an understanding of the assumptions underlying the broker quotes and independently benchmarked those quotes against other dealer price indications. Farmer Mac believes the broker quotes are the best indication of fair value as of the measurement date although there is uncertainty regarding the ability to transact at such levels. Considering there is no active secondary market for these securities, although limited observable transactions do occasionally occur, price quotes vary significantly among dealers or independent pricing services, if provided at all, and there is little transparency in the price determination, Farmer Mac believes these measurements are appropriately classified as level 3.
	Net transfers in and/or out of the different levels within the fair value hierarchy are based on the fair values of the assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the reporting period.  There were no transfers within the fair value hierarchy for fair value measurements of Farmer Mac's investment securities during 2014, 2013, and 2012.
	Available-for-Sale and Trading Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities
	Farmer Mac estimates the fair value of its Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities by discounting the projected cash flows of these instruments at projected interest rates.  The fair values are based on the present value of expected cash flows using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayment speeds, forward yield curves, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 3 because there is limited market activity and therefore little or no price transparency.  On a sample basis, Farmer Mac corroborates the fair value of its Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities by obtaining a secondary valuation from an independent third party service.
	Farmer Mac made no transfers within the fair value hierarchy for fair value measurements of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities during 2014, 2013, and 2012.
	Financial Derivatives
	The fair value of exchange-traded U.S. Treasury futures is based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical financial instruments.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 1.
	Farmer Mac's derivative portfolio consists primarily of interest rate swaps and forward sales contracts on the debt of other GSEs.  Farmer Mac estimates the fair value of these financial instruments primarily based upon the counterparty valuations.  Farmer Mac internally values its derivative portfolio using a discounted cash flow valuation technique and obtains a secondary valuation for certain interest rate swaps to corroborate the counterparty valuations.  Farmer Mac also regularly reviews the counterparty valuations as part of the collateral exchange process.  Farmer Mac classifies these fair value measurements as level 2.
	Certain basis swaps are nonstandard interest rate swap structures and are therefore internally modeled using significant assumptions and unobservable inputs, resulting in level 3 classification.  Farmer Mac uses a discounted cash flow valuation technique, using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayment speeds, forward yield curves, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved.
	During first quarter 2013, Farmer Mac observed an increasing trend in the use of the overnight index swap ("OIS") curve by other market participants to value certain collateralized interest rate swap agreements. As a result, Farmer Mac concluded that the OIS curve was a more appropriate curve to use to discount the cash flows on certain collateralized interest rate swaps effective March 31, 2013. The impact of this change was not significant.
	As of December 31, 2014, the consideration of Farmer Mac's and the counterparties' credit risk resulted in an adjustment of $0.2 million to the valuations of Farmer Mac's derivative portfolio. As of December 31, 2013, the consideration of Farmer Mac's and the counterparties' credit risk resulted in an adjustment of $45,000 to the valuations of Farmer Mac's derivative portfolio. See Note 2(h) and Note 6 for more information about Farmer Mac's derivative portfolio.
	Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements and Classification
	Loans Held for Investment
	Certain loans in Farmer Mac's held for investment loan portfolio are measured at fair value when they are determined to be impaired. For these impaired loans, the fair value of the loan generally is based on the fair value of the underlying property, which is determined by recent third-party appraisals. Farmer Mac uses net realizable value (fair value less estimated costs to sell) as a reasonable estimate of fair value and classifies the fair values as level 3 measurements in the tables below.
	When recent third-party appraisals are not available, Farmer Mac measures loan impairment in the aggregate in consideration of the similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics, and does not include these impaired loans in the tables below.
	Real Estate Owned
	Farmer Mac initially records REO properties at net realizable value and subsequently records them at the lower of carrying value or net realizable value. The fair value of the REO generally is based on third-party appraisals. Farmer Mac classifies the REO fair values as level 3 measurements. Farmer Mac uses net realizable value as a reasonable estimate of fair value in the tables below.
	Fair Value Classification and Transfers
	As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value included financial instruments valued at $5.5 billion whose fair values were estimated by management in the absence of readily determinable fair values (i.e., level 3).  These financial instruments measured as level 3 represented 38 percent of total assets and 73 percent of financial instruments measured at fair value as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value included financial instruments valued at $6.8 billion whose fair values were estimated by management in the absence of readily determinable fair values.  These financial instruments measured as level 3 represented 51 percent of total assets and 73 percent of financial instruments measured at fair value as of December 31, 2013.
	Net transfers in and/or out of the different levels within the fair value hierarchy are based on the fair values of the assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the reporting period.  There were no transfers within the fair value hierarchy for fair value measurements of Farmer Mac's investment securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, USDA Securities, and financial derivatives during 2014, 2013, and 2012. See Note 2(b) for information about the transfer of available-for-sale Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities to held-to-maturity as of January 1, 2014.
	The following tables present information about Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and indicate the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques used by Farmer Mac to determine such fair value:
	Table 13.1
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value as of December 31, 2014
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
		(in thousands)
	Recurring:
	Assets:
	Investment Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—		$	—		$	40,576		$	40,576
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			100,902			—			100,902
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	—			10,091			—			10,091
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	—			30,025			—			30,025
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			612,753			—			612,753
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			8,202			—			8,202
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—			66,320			—			66,320
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	—			18,939			—			18,939
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	74,979			—			—			74,979
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	975,712			—			—			975,712
	Total available-for-sale	1,050,691			847,232			40,576			1,938,499
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			—			689			689
	Total trading	—			—			689			689
	Total Investment Securities	1,050,691			847,232			41,265			1,939,188
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	—			—			3,631,662			3,631,662
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	—			—			27,619			27,619
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			—			3,659,281			3,659,281
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	—			—			1,731,222			1,731,222
Trading	—			—			40,310			40,310
Total USDA Securities	—			—			1,771,532			1,771,532
Financial derivatives	—			4,177			—			4,177
Total Assets at fair value	$	1,050,691		$	851,409		$	5,472,078		$	7,374,178
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives	3			84,841			—			84,844
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	3		$	84,841		$	—		$	84,844
Nonrecurring:
Assets:
Loans held for investment	$	—		$	—		$	5,973		$	5,973
Total Nonrecurring Assets at fair value	$	—		$	—		$	5,973		$	5,973
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
	(in thousands)
Recurring:
Assets:
Investment Securities:
Available-for-sale:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—		$	—		$	65,285		$	65,285
Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			166,104			—			166,104
Floating rate corporate debt securities	—			109,769			—			109,769
Fixed rate corporate debt	—			55,141			—			55,141
Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			621,064			205			621,269
Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			8,657			—			8,657
Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—			63,385			—			63,385
Fixed rate GSE preferred stock	—			83,161			—			83,161
Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	—			30,681			—			30,681
Fixed rate senior agency debt	—			524,062			—			524,062
Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	755,633			—			—			755,633
Total available-for-sale	755,633			1,662,024			65,490			2,483,147
Trading:
Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			—			928			928
Total trading	—			—			928			928
Total Investment Securities	755,633			1,662,024			66,418			2,484,075
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage	—			—			5,070,366			5,070,366
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	—			—			21,234			21,234
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			—			5,091,600			5,091,600
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	—			—			1,553,669			1,553,669
Trading	—			—			58,344			58,344
Total USDA Securities	—			—			1,612,013			1,612,013
Financial derivatives	—			19,718			—			19,718
Total Assets at fair value	$	755,633		$	1,681,742		$	6,770,031		$	9,207,406
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives	$	1		$	75,472		$	235		$	75,708
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	1		$	75,472		$	235		$	75,708
Nonrecurring:
Assets:
Loans held for investment	$	—		$	—		$	4,420		$	4,420
REO	—			—			1,818			1,818
Total Nonrecurring Assets at fair value	$	—		$	—		$	6,238		$	6,238
The following tables present additional information about assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which Farmer Mac has used significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value. Net transfers in and/or out of level 3 are based on the fair values of the assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the reporting period.
Table 13.2
Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2014
	Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Transfers Out			Ending
	Balance												Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included			Gains/(Losses)						Balance
													in Income			included in Other
																Comprehen-sive
																Income
	(in thousands)
Recurring:
Assets:
Investment Securities:
Available-for-sale:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	65,285		$	—		$	(26,675	)	$	—		$	(825	)	$	2,791		$	—		$	40,576
Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	205			—			—			(205		)	—			—			—			—
Total available-for-sale	65,490			—			(26,675		)	(205		)	(825		)	2,791			—			40,576
Trading:
Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	928			—			—			(685		)	446			—			—			689
Total trading	928			—			—			(685		)	446			—			—			689
Total Investment Securities	66,418			—			(26,675		)	(890		)	(379		)	2,791			—			41,265
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage (2)	5,070,366			1,091,475			—			(922,908		)	14,520			10,995			(1,632,786		)	3,631,662
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	21,234			7,627			—			(808		)	—			(434		)	—			27,619
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,091,600			1,099,102			—			(923,716		)	14,520			10,561			(1,632,786		)	3,659,281
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	1,553,669			335,359			—			(209,400		)	—			51,594			—			1,731,222
Trading (3)	58,344			—			—			(19,185		)	1,151			—			—			40,310
Total USDA Securities	1,612,013			335,359			—			(228,585		)	1,151			51,594			—			1,771,532
Total Assets at fair value	$	6,770,031		$	1,434,461		$	(26,675	)	$	(1,153,191	)	$	15,292		$	64,946		$	(1,632,786	)	$	5,472,078
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives	$	(235	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	235		$	—		$	—		$	—
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(235	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	235		$	—		$	—		$	—
-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2014 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-2	Includes $1.6 billion of AgVantage Securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity on January 1, 2014 and $20.7 million of AgVantage securities purchased during 2014 transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity.
-3	Includes unrealized gains of $1.8 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2014 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Ending
	Balance												Unrealized Gains/			Gains/(Losses)			Balance
													(Losses) included			included in Other
													in Income			Comprehen-sive
																Income
	(in thousands)
Recurring:
Assets:
Investment Securities:
Available-for-sale:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	63,159		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2,126		$	65,285
Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			233			—			(24		)	—			(4		)	205
Total available-for-sale	63,159			233			—			(24		)	—			2,122			65,490
Trading:
Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	1,247			—			—			(774		)	455			—			928
Total trading	1,247			—			—			(774		)	455			—			928
Total Investment Securities	64,406			233			—			(798		)	455			2,122			66,418
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage	4,739,577			1,273,500			—			(844,437		)	(18,230		)	(80,044		)	5,070,366
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	26,681			—			—			(5,214		)	—			(233		)	21,234
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	4,766,258			1,273,500			—			(849,651		)	(18,230		)	(80,277		)	5,091,600
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	1,486,595			361,894			—			(234,035		)	—			(60,785		)	1,553,669
Trading (2)	104,188			—			—			(44,570		)	(1,274		)	—			58,344
Total USDA Securities	1,590,783			361,894			—			(278,605		)	(1,274		)	(60,785		)	1,612,013
Total Assets at fair value	$	6,421,447		$	1,635,627		$	—		$	(1,129,054	)	$	(19,049	)	$	(138,940	)	$	6,770,031
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives (3)	$	(691	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	456		$	—		$	(235	)
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(691	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	456		$	—		$	(235	)
-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2013 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-2	Includes unrealized losses of $0.5 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2013 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-3	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of December 31, 2013 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Ending
	Balance												Unrealized Gains/			Gains/(Losses)			Balance
													(Losses) included			included in Other
													in Income			Comprehen-sive
																Income
	(in thousands)
Recurring:
Assets:
Investment Securities:
Available-for-sale:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	60,213		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2,946		$	63,159
Total available-for-sale	60,213			—			—			—			—			2,946			63,159
Trading:
Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	1,796			—			—			(812		)	263			—			1,247
Total trading	1,796			—			—			(812		)	263			—			1,247
Total Investment Securities	62,009			—			—			(812		)	263			2,946			64,406
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage	4,253,673			984,406			—			(498,533		)	6,388			(6,357		)	4,739,577
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	35,599			5,327			(5,327		)	(8,907		)	—			(11		)	26,681
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	4,289,272			989,733			(5,327		)	(507,440		)	6,388			(6,368		)	4,766,258
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	1,279,546			479,324			—			(256,685		)	—			(15,590		)	1,486,595
Trading (2)	212,359			—			—			(108,215		)	44			—			104,188
Total USDA Securities	1,491,905			479,324			—			(364,900		)	44			(15,590		)	1,590,783
Total Assets at fair value	$	5,843,186		$	1,469,057		$	(5,327	)	$	(873,152	)	$	6,695		$	(19,012	)	$	6,421,447
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives (3)	$	(1,335	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	644		$	—		$	(691	)
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(1,335	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	644		$	—		$	(691	)
-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2012 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-2	Includes unrealized gains of $0.3 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2012 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-3	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of December 31, 2012 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
The following tables present additional information about the significant unobservable inputs, such as discount rates and constant prepayment rates ("CPR"), used in the fair value measurements categorized in level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Table 13.3
		As of December 31, 2014
Financial Instruments		Fair Value			Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input		Range (Weighted-Average)
		(in thousands)
Assets:
Investment securities:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans		$	40,576		Indicative bids	Range of broker quotes		82.0% - 94.0% (87.1%)
Floating rate asset-backed securities		$	689		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		14.3% - 23.9% (19.1%)
						CPR		10%
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
AgVantage		$	3,631,662		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.7% - 2.7% (1.3%)
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities		$	27,619		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.8% - 3.6% (1.9%)
						CPR		0% - 21% (9%)
USDA Securities		$	1,771,532		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.1% - 5.3% (3.2%)
						CPR		0% - 20% (8%)
		As of December 31, 2013
Financial Instruments		Fair Value			Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input		Range (Weighted-Average)
		(in thousands)
Assets:
Investment securities:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans		$	65,285		Indicative bids	Range of broker quotes		82.0% - 92.0% (88.1%)
Floating rate asset-backed securities		$	928		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		13.0% - 22.5% (17.7%)
						CPR		10%
Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities		$	205		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.8% - 1.8% (1.8%)
						CPR		6%
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
AgVantage		$	5,070,366		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.9% - 3.6% (1.8%)
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities		$	21,234		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.9% - 3.2% (1.9%)
						CPR		7% - 14% (11%)
USDA Securities		$	1,612,013		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.2% - 5.3% (3.4%)
						CPR		0% - 23% (5%)
Liabilities:
Financial Derivatives:
Basis swaps		$	235		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.7% - 2.3% (1.3%)
						CPR		10% - 11% (10%)
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities are prepayment rates and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. Typically, significant increases (decreases) in any of these inputs in isolation may result in materially lower (higher) fair value measurements. Generally, in a rising interest rate environment, Farmer Mac would expect average discount rates to increase and would likely expect a corresponding decrease in forecasted prepayment rates. Conversely, in a declining interest rate environment, Farmer Mac would expect average discount rates to decrease and would likely expect a corresponding increase in forecasted prepayment rates. Prepayment rates are not presented in the table above for AgVantage securities because they generally do not pay down principal based on amortization schedules but instead typically have fixed maturity dates when the secured general obligations are due.
Disclosures on Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following table sets forth the estimated fair values and carrying values for financial assets, liabilities, and guarantees and commitments as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Table 13.4
	As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
	Fair Value			Carrying			Fair Value			Carrying
				Amount						Amount
	(in thousands)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,363,387		$	1,363,387		$	749,313		$	749,313
Investment securities	1,939,188			1,939,188			2,484,075			2,484,075
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,459,857			5,453,901			5,091,600			5,091,600
USDA Securities	1,771,532			1,771,532			1,612,013			1,612,013
Loans	3,547,424			3,520,075			3,138,932			3,193,248
Financial derivatives	4,177			4,177			19,718			19,718
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:
LTSPCs	29,095			27,807			33,807			27,244
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	14,200			13,979			18,470			16,660
Financial liabilities:
Notes payable:
Due within one year	7,357,770			7,353,953			7,353,356			7,338,781
Due after one year	5,556,570			5,471,186			4,977,942			5,001,169
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	423,085			424,214			257,512			261,760
Financial derivatives	84,844			84,844			75,708			75,708
Guarantee and commitment obligations:
LTSPCs	28,130			26,843			32,856			26,293
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	11,303			11,082			15,185			13,374
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents is a reasonable estimate of their approximate fair value and is classified as level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. Investment securities primarily are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. Farmer Mac internally models the fair value of its loan portfolio, including loans held for sale, loans held for investment and loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and USDA Securities by discounting the projected cash flows of these instruments at projected interest rates. The fair values are based on the present value of expected cash flows using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayment speeds, forward yield curves and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. These fair value measurements do not take into consideration the fair value of the underlying property and are classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Financial derivatives primarily are valued using unadjusted counterparty valuations and are classified as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the guarantee fees receivable/obligation and debt securities of consolidated trusts are estimated based on the present value of expected future cash flows of the underlying mortgage assets using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayments speeds, forward yield curves, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved and are classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Notes payable are valued by discounting the expected cash flows of these instruments using a yield curve derived from market prices observed for similar agency securities and are also classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Because the cash flows of Farmer Mac's financial instruments may be interest rate path dependent, estimated fair values and projected discount rates for level 3 financial instruments are derived using a Monte Carlo simulation model. Different market assumptions and estimation methodologies could significantly affect estimated fair value amounts.

Business_Segment_Reporting

Business Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segment Reporting Disclosure	BUSINESS SEGMENT REPORTING
	After an evaluation of Farmer Mac's overall portfolio of product offerings and reportable segments, Farmer Mac's management determined that Farmer Mac's operations consist of four reportable operating segments effective January 1, 2014 – Farm & Ranch, USDA Guarantees, Rural Utilities, and Institutional Credit. The Institutional Credit segment comprises Farmer Mac's guarantees of AgVantage securities related to general obligations of lenders that are secured by pools of eligible loans.
	Farmer Mac uses these four segments to manage business risk, and each segment is based on distinct products and distinct business activities.  In addition to these four operating segments, a corporate segment is presented.  That segment represents activity in Farmer Mac's investment portfolio and other corporate activities.  The segment financial results include directly attributable revenues and expenses.  Corporate charges for administrative expenses that are not directly attributable to an operating segment are allocated based on headcount.
	Farmer Mac uses core earnings to measure corporate economic performance and develop financial plans because, in management's view, core earnings is a useful alternative measure in understanding Farmer Mac's economic performance, transaction economics, and business trends.  Core earnings principally differs from net income attributable to common stockholders by excluding the effects of fair value accounting guidance, which are not expected to have a cumulative net impact on financial condition or results of operations reported in accordance with GAAP if the related financial instruments are held to maturity, as is generally expected. Core earnings also differs from net income attributable to common stockholders by excluding specified infrequent or unusual transactions that Farmer Mac believes are not indicative of future operating results and that may not reflect the trends and economic financial performance of Farmer Mac's core business. This non-GAAP financial measure may not be comparable to similarly labeled non-GAAP financial measures disclosed by other companies. Farmer Mac's disclosure of this non-GAAP measure is intended to be supplemental in nature and is not meant to be considered in isolation from, as a substitute for, or as more important than, the related financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP.
	The financial information presented below reflects the accounts of Farmer Mac and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis.  Accordingly, the core earnings for Farmer Mac's reportable operating segments will differ from the stand-alone financial statements of Farmer Mac's subsidiaries.  These differences will be due to various factors, including the reversal of unrealized gains and losses related to fair value changes of trading assets and financial derivatives, as well as the allocation of certain expenses such as dividends and interest expense related to the issuance of capital and the incurrence of indebtedness managed at the corporate level.  The allocation of general and administrative expenses that are not directly attributable to an operating segment may also result in differences.  The assets of Farmer Mac's subsidiary Farmer Mac II LLC will only be available to creditors of Farmer Mac after all obligations owed to creditors of and equity holders in Farmer Mac II LLC have been satisfied.  As of December 31, 2014, Farmer Mac II LLC held assets with a fair value of $1.8 billion, had debt outstanding of $470.0 million, had preferred stock outstanding with a liquidation preference of $250.0 million, and had $1.0 billion of common stock outstanding held by Farmer Mac.
	The following tables present core earnings for Farmer Mac's reportable operating segments and a reconciliation to consolidated net income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
	Table 14.1
	Core Earnings by Business Segment
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
								Utilities									Adjustments
		(in thousands)
	Interest income (1)	$	78,934		$	54,955		$	27,879		$	67,019		$	17,637		$	(15,850	)		$	230,574
	Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(2,086		)	—			—			—			—			2,086				—
	Interest expense (2)	(45,025		)	(36,689		)	(17,138		)	(38,456		)	(3,830		)	(29,582		)		(170,720		)
	Net effective spread	31,823			18,266			10,741			28,563			13,807			(43,346		)		59,854
	Guarantee and commitment fees	15,107			134			—			12,032			—			(2,086		)		25,187
	Other income/(expense) (3)	762			63			9			—			(4,913		)	22,675				18,596
	Non-interest income/(loss)	15,869			197			9			12,032			(4,913		)	20,589				43,783
	Release of allowance for loan losses	961			—			—			—			—			—				961
	Release of reserve for losses	2,205			—			—			—			—			—				2,205
	Other non-interest expense	(15,180		)	(2,955		)	(3,130		)	(1,891		)	(10,541		)	—				(33,697		)
	Non-interest expense (4)	(12,975		)	(2,955		)	(3,130		)	(1,891		)	(10,541		)	—				(31,492		)
	Core earnings before income taxes	35,678			15,508			7,620			38,704			(1,647		)	(22,757		)	-5	73,106
	Income tax (expense)/benefit	(12,486		)	(5,430		)	(2,668		)	(13,548		)	23,347			7,961				(2,824		)
	Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	23,192			10,078			4,952			25,156			21,700			(14,796		)	-5	70,282
	Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(9,839		)	—				(9,839		)
	Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,192		)	—				(22,192		)
	Segment core earnings/(losses)	$	23,192		$	10,078		$	4,952		$	25,156		$	(10,331	)	$	(14,796	)	-5	$	38,251
	Total assets at carrying value	$	2,611,401		$	1,825,210		$	995,082		$	5,459,296		$	3,396,832		$	—			$	14,287,821
	Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	5,417,174			1,798,034			985,609			6,396,941						—				14,597,758
	-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts and interest income related to securities purchased under agreements to resell.
	-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements. Includes reconciling adjustments for interest expense related to securities sold, not yet purchased.
	-3	Includes interest income and interest expense related to securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold, not yet purchased, respectively; reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets; and a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
	-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
	-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.
	Core Earnings by Business Segment
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
								Utilities									Adjustments
		(in thousands)
	Interest income (1)	$	67,429		$	53,384		$	35,194		$	77,868		$	21,940		$	(20,417	)		$	235,398
	Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(964		)	—			—			—			—			964				—
	Interest expense (2)	(32,062		)	(35,656		)	(23,601		)	(53,613		)	(4,668		)	12,324				(137,276		)
	Net effective spread	34,403			17,728			11,593			24,255			17,272			(7,129		)		98,122
	Guarantee and commitment fees	14,944			132			—			12,846			—			(964		)		26,958
	Other income/(expense) (3)	2,244			791			—			—			1,622			34,156				38,813
	Non-interest income/(loss)	17,188			923			—			12,846			1,622			33,192				65,771
	Release of allowance for loan losses	481			—			—			—			—			—				481
	Provision for losses	(929		)	—			—			—			—			—				(929		)
	Other non-interest expense	(14,649		)	(2,904		)	(3,100		)	(1,774		)	(9,751		)	—				(32,178		)
	Non-interest expense (4)	(15,578		)	(2,904		)	(3,100		)	(1,774		)	(9,751		)	—				(33,107		)
	Core earnings before income taxes	36,494			15,747			8,493			35,327			9,143			26,063			-5	131,267
	Income tax (expense)/benefit	(12,773		)	(5,511		)	(2,973		)	(12,364		)	8,991			(9,122		)		(33,752		)
	Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	23,721			10,236			5,520			22,963			18,134			16,941			-5	97,515
	Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(3,495		)	—				(3,495		)
	Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,187		)	—				(22,187		)
	Segment core earnings/(losses)	$	23,721		$	10,236		$	5,520		$	22,963		$	(7,548	)	$	16,941		-5	$	71,833
	Total assets at carrying value	$	2,190,224		$	1,656,688		$	1,076,298		$	5,121,666		$	3,316,904		$	—			$	13,361,780
	Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	5,163,080			1,687,117			1,052,251			6,047,864						—				13,950,312
	-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
	-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
	-3	Includes reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets. Also includes a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
	-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.
Core Earnings by Business Segment
For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
							Utilities									Adjustments
	(in thousands)
Interest income (1)	$	70,590		$	56,815		$	35,566		$	88,801		$	24,729		$	(11,831	)		$	264,670
Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(1,659		)	—			—			—			—			1,659				—
Interest expense (2)	(36,390		)	(38,761		)	(23,301		)	(64,942		)	(4,891		)	25,595				(142,690		)
Net effective spread	32,541			18,054			12,265			23,859			19,838			15,423				121,980
Guarantee and commitment fees	14,292			163			—			12,167			—			(1,659		)		24,963
Other income/(expense) (3)	2,427			599			466			—			(2,113		)	(22,607		)		(21,228		)
Non-interest income/(loss)	16,719			762			466			12,167			(2,113		)	(24,266		)		3,735
Provision for loan losses	(3,691		)	—			—			—			—			—				(3,691		)
Release of losses	1,816			—			—			—			—			—				1,816
Other non-interest expense	(14,836		)	(2,773		)	(3,204		)	(1,834		)	(10,077		)	—				(32,724		)
Non-interest expense (4)	(13,020		)	(2,773		)	(3,204		)	(1,834		)	(10,077		)	—				(30,908		)
Core earnings before income taxes	32,549			16,043			9,527			34,192			7,648			(8,843		)	-5	91,116
Income tax (expense)/benefit	(11,392		)	(5,615		)	(3,334		)	(11,967		)	7,057			3,095				(22,156		)
Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	21,157			10,428			6,193			22,225			14,705			(5,748		)	-5	68,960
Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(2,879		)	—				(2,879		)
Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,187		)	—				(22,187		)
Segment core earnings	$	21,157		$	10,428		$	6,193		$	22,225		$	(10,361	)	$	(5,748	)	-5	$	43,894
Total assets at carrying value	$	1,736,391		$	1,641,030		$	1,080,045		$	4,772,509		$	3,392,226		$	—			$	12,622,201
Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	4,747,289			1,615,579			1,031,945			5,620,375						—				13,015,188
-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
-3	Includes reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets. Also includes a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block]	QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)
	Table 15.1
		2014 Quarter Ended
		Dec. 31			Sept. 30			30-Jun			Mar. 31
		(in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Interest income:
	Interest income	$	58,199		$	60,882		$	61,775		$	49,718
	Interest expense	44,606			48,886			42,502			34,726
	Net interest income	13,593			11,996			19,273			14,992
	Release of /(provision for) loan losses	462			(511		)	1,583			(573		)
	Net interest income after release of/(provision for) loan losses	14,055			11,485			20,856			14,419
	Non-interest income/(loss):
	Guarantee and commitment fees	6,094			6,172			6,403			6,518
	(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	(9,178		)	808			(5,698		)	(7,578		)
	Gains on trading assets	13,857			16,369			7,748			655
	(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	—			(396		)	143			15
	(Losses)/gains on sale of real estate owned	(28		)	—			168			(3		)
	Other income	920			502			200			92
	Non-interest income/(loss)	11,665			23,455			8,964			(301		)
	Non-interest expense	8,594			7,095			7,856			7,947
	Income before income taxes	17,126			27,845			21,964			6,171
	Income tax expense/(benefit)	2,769			7,564			(6,368		)	(1,141		)
	Net income	14,357			20,281			28,332			7,312
	Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling	(5,414		)	(5,412		)	(5,819		)	(5,547		)
	interest - preferred stock dividends
	Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	8,943			14,869			22,513			1,765
	Preferred stock dividends	(3,296		)	(3,283		)	(2,308		)	(952		)
	Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	5,647		$	11,586		$	20,205		$	813
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic earnings per common share	$	0.52		$	1.06		$	1.85		$	0.07
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.5		$	1.02		$	1.78		$	0.07
		2013 Quarter Ended
		Dec. 31			Sept. 30			30-Jun			Mar. 31
		(in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Interest income:
	Interest income	$	49,180		$	62,975		$	61,745		$	61,498
	Interest expense	35,777			34,787			33,584			33,128
	Net interest income	13,403			28,188			28,161			28,370
	(Provision for)/release of loan losses	(117		)	499			529			(430		)
	Net interest income after (provision for)/release of loan losses	13,286			28,687			28,690			27,940
	Non-interest income:
	Guarantee and commitment fees	6,768			6,819			6,759			6,612
	Gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	9,263			3,024			14,983			4,494
	(Losses)/gains on trading assets	(76		)	(626		)	(327		)	210
	(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	(960		)	—			3,071			2
	Gains on repurchase of debt	1,462			—			—			—
	Gains on sale of real estate owned	26			39			1,124			47
	Other income	539			565			873			1,080
	Non-interest income	17,022			9,821			26,483			12,445
	Non-interest expense	7,621			8,441			7,964			9,081
	Income before income taxes	22,687			30,067			47,209			31,304
	Income tax expense	3,774			8,226			13,036			8,716
	Net income	18,913			21,841			34,173			22,588
	Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling	(5,546		)	(5,547		)	(5,547		)	(5,547		)
	interest - preferred stock dividends
	Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	13,367			16,294			28,626			17,041
	Preferred stock dividends	(882		)	(881		)	(881		)	(851		)
	Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	12,485		$	15,413		$	27,745		$	16,190
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic earnings per common share	$	1.14		$	1.42		$	2.57		$	1.51
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.11		$	1.37		$	2.48		$	1.45

Subsequent_Events_Notes

Subsequent Events (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	Farmer Mac II LLC announced on February 27, 2015 that it intends to redeem all 250,000 outstanding shares of Farmer Mac II Preferred Stock for a redemption price of $1,000 per share (the par value) on March 30, 2015, which is the initial redemption date for those securities. The redemption of the Farmer Mac II Preferred Stock will trigger on the same day the redemption of all $250.0 million of the outstanding related FALConS, which represent undivided beneficial ownership in the 250,000 shares of the Farmer Mac II Preferred Stock. Farmer Mac currently holds $6.0 million of the outstanding FALConS, which were purchased in the open market during the second quarter of 2014. The record date for the redemption of the Farmer Mac II Preferred Stock and the FALConS is March 16, 2015. Farmer Mac II LLC has also announced the quarterly dividend of $22.1875 to be paid on each share of Farmer Mac II Preferred Stock on March 30, 2015 in connection with the redemption.

Accounting_Policies_Policies

Accounting Policies - (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Account Policies	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	The accounting and reporting policies of Farmer Mac conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("generally accepted accounting principles" or "GAAP").  The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities (including, but not limited to, the allowance for loan losses, reserve for losses, other-than-temporary impairment of investment securities and fair value measurements) as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following are the significant accounting policies that Farmer Mac follows in preparing and presenting its consolidated financial statements:
Principles of Consolidation	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Farmer Mac and its three subsidiaries: (1) Farmer Mac Mortgage Securities Corporation ("FMMSC"), whose principal activities are to facilitate the purchase and issuance of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities; (2) Farmer Mac II LLC, whose principal activity is the operation of substantially all of the business related to the USDA Guarantees line of business – primarily the acquisition of USDA Securities; and (3) Contour Valuation Services, LLC, whose principal activity is to appraise agricultural real estate.  The consolidated financial statements also include the accounts of variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which Farmer Mac determined itself to be the primary beneficiary.  See Note 2(q) for more information on consolidated VIEs.
	A guarantee by Farmer Mac of timely payment of principal and interest is an explicit element of the terms of all Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.  When Farmer Mac retains such securities in its portfolio, that guarantee is not extinguished.  For Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities held in Farmer Mac's portfolio, Farmer Mac has entered into guarantee arrangements with FMMSC.  The guarantee fee rate established between Farmer Mac and FMMSC is an element in determining the fair value of these Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and guarantee fees related to these securities are reflected in guarantee and commitment fees in the consolidated statements of operations.
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Statements of Cash Flows	Farmer Mac considers highly liquid investment securities with maturities at the time of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents.  Farmer Mac does not consider securities purchased under agreements to resell to be cash equivalents if it intends to reinvest the funds from maturing repurchase agreements into new repurchase agreements and the aggregate term of the repurchase agreements exceeds three months. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents is a reasonable estimate of their approximate fair value.  Changes in the balance of cash and cash equivalents are reported in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Transfers of Financial Assets and Liabilities	Securities purchased under agreements to resell are treated as collateralized lending transactions. Farmer Mac's counterparties are required to pledge collateral for transactions involving securities purchased under agreements to resell. Farmer Mac considers the types of securities being pledged as collateral when determining how much to lend in these transactions. Additionally, on a daily basis, Farmer Mac reviews the fair values of these securities compared to amounts loaned and derivative counterparty collateral posting thresholds in an effort to minimize exposure to losses. These transactions are reported as securities purchased under agreements to resell in the consolidated balance sheets except for securities purchased under agreements to resell on an overnight basis, which are included in cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets. Farmer Mac records securities purchased under agreements to resell at the amount loaned in the consolidated balance sheets. The resulting fees for these transactions are included in interest income in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding securities purchased under agreements to resell.
	Securities sold, not yet purchased, represent obligations of Farmer Mac to deliver specified securities at contracted prices, which would thereby require Farmer Mac to purchase the securities in the market at prevailing prices. Farmer Mac records securities sold, not yet purchased in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities" in the consolidated statements of operations. The resulting interest expense for these transactions is included in interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were no outstanding securities sold, not yet purchased.
Investment Securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and USDA Securities	Securities for which Farmer Mac does not have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as available-for-sale or trading and are carried at estimated fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in stockholders' equity.  For securities classified as trading, unrealized gains and losses are included in earnings.  Gains and losses on the sale of available-for-sale and trading securities are determined using the specific identification cost method.  As of December 31, 2013, Farmer Mac did not classify any securities as held-to-maturity. However, effective January 1, 2014, Farmer Mac transferred $1.6 billion of available-for-sale securities to a held-to-maturity classification as the company currently has the intent to hold the securities to maturity.
	Farmer Mac determines the fair value of investment securities using quoted market prices, when available, and evaluates the securities for other-than-temporary impairment.  Farmer Mac determines the fair values of certain investment securities for which quoted market prices are not available, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities based on the present value of the associated expected future cash flows.  In estimating the present value of the expected future cash flows, management is required to make estimates and assumptions.  The key estimates and assumptions include discount rates and collateral repayment rates.  Premiums, discounts and other deferred costs are amortized to interest income over the estimated life of the security using the effective interest method.
	Farmer Mac generally receives compensation when loans with yield maintenance provisions underlying Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities prepay.  These yield maintenance payments mitigate Farmer Mac's exposure to reinvestment risk and are calculated such that, when reinvested with the prepaid principal, they should generate substantially the same cash flows that would have been generated had the loans not prepaid.  Yield maintenance payments are recognized as interest income in the consolidated statements of operations upon receipt.
Loans	Loans for which Farmer Mac has the positive intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for investment and reported at their unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized purchase discounts or premiums.  When Farmer Mac consolidates a trust, it recognizes the loans underlying the trust in the consolidated balance sheets as "Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost."  See Note 2(q) for more information on the accounting policy related to consolidation.  Loans that Farmer Mac does not intend to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for sale and reported at the lower of cost or fair value determined on a pooled basis.  Farmer Mac does not amortize premiums and discounts related to loans held for sale.
Non-Accrual Loans	Non-accrual loans are loans for which it is probable that Farmer Mac will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement and include all loans 90 days or more past due.  When a loan becomes 90 days past due, interest accrual on the loan is discontinued and interest previously accrued is reversed against interest income in the current period.  The interest on such loans is accounted for on the cash basis until a loan qualifies for return to accrual status.  Loans are returned to accrual status when all the principal and interest payments contractually due are collected and certain performance criteria are met.
Securitization of Loans	Asset securitization involves the transfer of financial assets to another entity in exchange for cash and/or beneficial interests in the assets transferred.  Farmer Mac or third parties transfer agricultural real estate mortgage loans or rural utilities loans into trusts that are used as vehicles for the securitization of the transferred loans.  The trusts issue Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities that are beneficial interests in the assets of the trusts, to either Farmer Mac or third party investors.  Farmer Mac guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on the securities issued by the trusts and receives guarantee fees as compensation for its guarantee.  Farmer Mac recognizes guarantee fees on an accrual basis over the terms of the Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, which generally coincide with the terms of the underlying loans.  As such, no guarantee fees are unearned at the end of any reporting period.  When Farmer Mac purchases a delinquent loan underlying a Farmer Mac Guaranteed Security, Farmer Mac stops accruing the guarantee fee upon loan purchase.
Real Estate Owned	Real estate owned ("REO") consists of real estate acquired through loan liquidation and is recorded at fair value less estimated selling cost at acquisition.  Fair value is determined by appraisal or other appropriate valuation method.  Any excess of the recorded investment in the loan over the fair value less estimated selling cost is charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Subsequent to the acquisition, management continues to perform periodic valuations of real estate owned.  Declines in the net realizable value (fair value less estimated selling costs) are charged through income and presented in "Real estate owned operating costs, net" on the consolidated statements of operations.
	Farmer Mac contracts with third parties to operate or preserve real estate owned and offered for sale when appropriate to maintain property value.  Non-recoverable costs are expensed as incurred and those related to the production of saleable goods or crops are capitalized to the extent they are realizable.  As revenues from the sale of goods or crops are received, they are applied first to any capitalized costs and any remaining revenues offset non-recoverable expenses incurred.
Financial Derivatives	Financial Derivatives
	Farmer Mac enters into financial derivative transactions principally to protect against risk from the effects of market price or interest rate movements on the value of certain assets, future cash flows or debt issuance, not for trading or speculative purposes. Farmer Mac enters into interest rate swap contracts principally to adjust the characteristics of its short-term debt to match more closely the cash flow and duration characteristics of its longer-term loans and other assets, and also to adjust the characteristics of its long-term debt to match more closely the cash flow and duration characteristics of its short-term assets, thereby reducing interest rate risk and often times deriving an overall lower effective cost of borrowing than would otherwise be available to Farmer Mac in the conventional debt market. Farmer Mac is required to recognize certain contracts and commitments as derivatives when the characteristics of those contracts and commitments meet the definition of a derivative.
	Accounting for financial derivatives differs significantly depending on whether a derivative is designated in a hedging relationship. Derivative instruments designated in fair value hedging relationships mitigate exposure to changes in the fair value of assets or liabilities. Derivative instruments designated in cash flow hedging relationships mitigate exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows or other forecasted transactions. In order to qualify for fair value or cash flow hedge accounting treatment, documentation must indicate the intention to designate the derivative as a hedge of a specific asset or liability or a future cash flow. Effectiveness of the hedge must be assessed at inception and monitored over the life of the hedging relationship.
	All financial derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value as a freestanding asset or liability. Changes in the fair values of financial derivatives not designated as cash flow hedges are reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. For financial derivatives designated in fair value hedging relationships, changes in the fair values of the hedged items related to the risk being hedged are also reported in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations. The accrual of the contractual amounts due on the financial derivative is included as an adjustment to the yield of the hedged item and is reported in net interest income. For financial derivatives designated in cash flow hedging relationships, the effective portion of the derivative gain/loss is recorded in other comprehensive income; amounts are disclosed as a reclassification out of other comprehensive income when the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of designated hedge transactions is recognized immediately in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" in the consolidated statements of operations.
	Farmer Mac has made an accounting policy election to measure the credit risk of its derivative financial instruments that are subject to master netting agreements on a net basis by counterparty portfolio, consistent with how Farmer Mac previously has been measuring credit risk for these instruments. See Notes 6 and 13 for more information on financial derivatives.
Notes Payable	Notes payable are classified as due within one year or due after one year based on the length of time remaining to their contractual maturities.  Debt issuance costs and premiums and discounts are deferred and amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the contractual life of the related debt.
Allowance for Losses	Farmer Mac maintains an allowance for losses to cover estimated probable losses incurred as of the balance sheet date on loans held ("allowance for loan losses") and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities ("reserve for losses") based on available information.  Disaggregation by commodity type is performed, where appropriate, in analyzing the need for an allowance for losses.
	The allowance for losses is increased through periodic provisions for loan losses that are charged against net interest income and provisions for losses that are charged to non-interest expense, and is reduced by charge-offs for actual losses, net of recoveries.  Negative provisions, or releases of allowance for losses, generally are recorded in the event that the estimate of probable losses as of the end of a period is lower than the estimate at the beginning of the period. In certain circumstances, for example, when a defaulted loan is purchased out of a guaranteed security or pursuant to an LTSPC, the related reserve for losses is reclassified as allowance for loan losses and there is a corresponding release from the provision for losses and a charge to the provision for loan losses.
	The total allowance for losses consists of a general allowance for losses and a specific allowance for individual impaired loans.
	Charge-offs
	Farmer Mac records a charge-off against the allowance for losses principally when a loss has been confirmed through the receipt of assets, generally the underlying collateral, in full satisfaction of the loan. The loss equals the excess of the recorded investment in the loan over the fair value of the collateral less estimated selling costs.
	General Allowance for Losses
	Farm & Ranch
	Farmer Mac's methodology for determining its allowance for losses incorporates Farmer Mac's automated loan classification system.  That system scores loans based on criteria such as historical repayment performance, indicators of current financial condition, loan seasoning, loan size and loan-to-value ratio.  The allowance methodology captures the migration of loan scores across concurrent and overlapping 3-year time horizons and calculates loss rates separately within each loan classification for (1) loans underlying LTSPCs and (2) loans held and loans underlying Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities.  The calculated loss rates are applied to the current classification distribution of unimpaired loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio to estimate inherent losses, on the assumption that the historical credit losses and trends used to calculate loss rates will continue in the future.
	Management evaluates this assumption by taking into consideration several factors, including:
	•	economic conditions;
	•	geographic and agricultural commodity/product concentrations in the portfolio;
	•	the credit profile of the portfolio;
	•	delinquency trends of the portfolio;
	•	historical charge-off and recovery activities of the portfolio; and
	•	other factors to capture current portfolio trends and characteristics that differ from historical experience.
	Management believes that its use of this methodology produces a reasonable estimate of probable losses, as of the balance sheet date, for all loans held in the Farm & Ranch portfolio and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs. There were no purchases or sales during 2014 that materially affected the credit profile of the Farm & Ranch portfolio.
	Rural Utilities
	Farmer Mac separately evaluates the rural utilities loans it owns to determine if there are any probable losses inherent in those assets.  No allowance for losses has been provided for this portfolio segment based on the credit quality of the collateral supporting rural utilities assets and Farmer Mac's counterparty risk analysis. As of December 31, 2014 there were no delinquencies and no probable losses inherent in Farmer Mac's rural utilities loans.
	Specific Allowance for Impaired Loans
	Farmer Mac also analyzes certain loans in its portfolio for impairment in accordance with accounting guidance on measuring individual impairment of a loan.  Farmer Mac's impaired loans generally include loans 90 days or more past due, in foreclosure, restructured, in bankruptcy and certain performing loans that have previously been delinquent or are secured by real estate that produces agricultural commodities or products currently under stress.
	Farmer Mac uses a risk-based approach in determining the necessity of obtaining updated appraisals on impaired loans. For example, larger exposures associated with highly improved and specialized collateral will generally receive updated appraisals once the loans are identified as impaired. In addition, updated appraisals are always obtained during the foreclosure process.  Depending on the risk factors associated with the loan and underlying collateral, which can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the loan and collateral, this can occur early in the foreclosure process, while in other instances this may occur just prior to the transfer of title.  As part of its routine credit review process, Farmer Mac often will exercise judgment in discounting an appraisal value due to local real estate trends or the condition of the property (e.g., following an inspection by Farmer Mac or the servicer).  In addition, a property appraisal value may be discounted based on the market's reaction to Farmer Mac's asking price for sale of the property.
	For loans with an updated appraised value, other updated collateral valuation or management's estimate of discounted collateral value, this analysis includes the measurement of the fair value of the underlying collateral for individual loans relative to the total recorded investment, including principal, interest and advances and net of any charge-offs.  In the event that the collateral value does not support the total recorded investment, Farmer Mac specifically provides an allowance for the loan for the difference between the recorded investment and its fair value, less estimated costs to liquidate the collateral. Estimated selling costs are based on historical selling costs incurred by Farmer Mac or management's best estimate of selling costs for a particular property.  For the remaining impaired assets without updated valuations, this analysis is performed in the aggregate in consideration of the similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics. Farmer Mac considers appraisals aged more than two years as of the reporting period end date to be outdated. Farmer Mac believes this methodology that uses loan classification scores and historical loss experience is a better indication of impairment for these collateral-dependent loans than other valuation methods.
Earnings Per Common Share	Basic earnings per common share ("EPS") is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding.  Diluted earnings per common share is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding adjusted to include all potentially dilutive common stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), and non-vested restricted stock awards.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Deferred federal income tax assets and liabilities are established for temporary differences between financial and taxable income and are measured using the current enacted statutory tax rate.  Income tax expense is equal to the income taxes payable in the current year plus the net change in the deferred tax asset or liability balance.
	Farmer Mac evaluates its tax positions at least quarterly to identify and recognize any liabilities related to uncertain tax positions in its federal income tax returns.  Farmer Mac uses a two-step approach in which income tax benefits are recognized if, based on the technical merits of a tax position, it is more likely than not (a probability of greater than 50 percent) that the tax position would be sustained upon examination by the taxing authority, which includes all related appeals and litigation process.  The amount of tax benefit recognized is then measured at the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority, considering all information available at the reporting date.  Farmer Mac's policy for recording interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions is to record them as a component of income tax expense.  Farmer Mac establishes a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Stock-Based Compensation	Farmer Mac accounts for its stock-based employee compensation plans using the grant date fair value method of accounting.  Farmer Mac measures the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  The cost is recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award. For performance-based grants, Farmer Mac recognizes the grant-date fair value over the vesting period as long as it remains probable that the performance conditions will be met. If the service or performance conditions are not met, Farmer Mac reverses previously recognized compensation expense upon forfeiture.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive income represents all changes in stockholders' equity except those resulting from investments by or distributions to stockholders, and is comprised primarily of net income and unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale, net of related taxes.
Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments	Farmer Mac accounts for its LTSPCs as guarantees. Commitment fee income represents a reduction of the commitment obligation based on amortization using the actual prepayment experience on the underlying loans.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement
	Farmer Mac defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and establishes a fair value hierarchy that ranks the quality and reliability of the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value.  The hierarchy gives highest rank to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (level 1 measurements) and the lowest rank to unobservable inputs (level 3 measurements).
	Farmer Mac's assessment of the significance of the input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and considers factors specific to the financial instrument.  Both observable and unobservable inputs may be used to determine the fair value of financial instruments that Farmer Mac has classified within the level 3 category.  As a result, the unrealized gains and losses for assets and liabilities within the level 3 category may include changes in fair value that were attributable to both observable (e.g., changes in market interest rates) and unobservable (e.g., changes in projected prepayment rates) inputs
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities	Farmer Mac has interests in various entities that are considered to be VIEs.  These interests include investments in securities issued by VIEs, such as Farmer Mac agricultural mortgage-backed securities created pursuant to Farmer Mac's securitization transactions and mortgage and asset-backed trusts that Farmer Mac did not create.  The consolidation model uses a qualitative evaluation that requires consolidation of an entity when the reporting enterprise both (1) has the power to direct matters which significantly impact the activities and success of the entity, and (2) has exposure to benefits and/or losses that could potentially be significant to the entity.  The reporting enterprise that meets both these conditions is deemed the primary beneficiary of the VIE. Upon consolidation of a VIE, Farmer Mac accounts for the incremental assets and liabilities initially at their carrying amounts.
	The VIEs in which Farmer Mac has a variable interest are limited to securitization trusts.  The major factor in determining if Farmer Mac is the primary beneficiary is whether Farmer Mac has the power to direct the activities of the trust that potentially have the most significant impact on the economic performance of the trust.  Generally, the ability to make decisions regarding default mitigation is evidence of that power.  Farmer Mac determined that it is the primary beneficiary for the securitization trusts related to most Farm & Ranch and all Rural Utilities securitization transactions because of its rights as guarantor under both programs to control the default mitigation activities of the trusts.  For certain securitization trusts created when loans subject to LTSPCs were converted to Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities, Farmer Mac determined that it was not the primary beneficiary since the power to make decisions regarding default mitigation was shared among unrelated parties. For these trusts, the shared power provisions are substantive with respect to decision-making power and relate to the same activity (i.e., default mitigation). For similar securitization transactions where the power to make decisions regarding default mitigation was shared with a related party, Farmer Mac determined that it was the primary beneficiary because the applicable accounting guidance does not permit parties within a related party group to conclude that the power is shared. In the event that a related party status changes, consolidation or deconsolidation of these securitization trusts could occur.
	For those trusts that Farmer Mac is the primary beneficiary, the assets and liabilities are presented on the consolidated balance sheets as "Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost" and "Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties," respectively.  These assets can only be used to satisfy the obligations of the related trust.
	For those trusts where Farmer Mac has a variable interest but has not been determined to be the primary beneficiary, Farmer Mac's interests are presented as either "Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities," "USDA Securities," or "Investment securities" on the consolidated balance sheets.  Farmer Mac's involvement in VIEs classified as Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities or USDA Securities include securitization trusts under the USDA Guarantees line of business and certain trusts related to AgVantage securities.  In the case of USDA guaranteed trusts, Farmer Mac is not determined to be the primary beneficiary because it does not have the decision-making power over default mitigation activities.  Based on the USDA's program authority over the servicing and default mitigation activities of the USDA guaranteed portions of loans, Farmer Mac believes that the USDA has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the trust's economic performance. Farmer Mac does not have exposure to losses that could be significant to the trust and there are no triggers that would result in Farmer Mac superseding the USDA's authority with regard to directing the activities of the trust. For the AgVantage trusts, Farmer Mac currently does not have the power to direct the activities that have the most significant economic impact to the trust unless, as guarantor, there is a default by the issuer of the trust securities.  Should there be a default, Farmer Mac would reassess whether it is the primary beneficiary of those trusts.  The amounts disclosed in the tables below represent Farmer Mac's holdings of a portion of the beneficial interests issued by these AgVantage Trusts. For VIEs classified as investment securities, which include auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and government-sponsored enterprise ("GSE")-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities, Farmer Mac is determined not to be the primary beneficiary because of the lack of voting rights or other powers to direct the activities of the trust.
New Accounting Standards	Receivables
	In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-04, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40): Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure.” This update clarifies that an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, and a creditor is considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan, upon either (1) the creditor obtaining legal title to the residential real estate property upon completion of a foreclosure or (2) the borrower conveying all interest in the residential real estate property to the creditor to satisfy the loan through completion of a deed in lieu of foreclosure or through a similar legal agreement. Additionally, the amendments require interim and annual disclosure of both (1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by the creditor and (2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction.” ASU 2014-04 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of the new guidance will not have a material effect on Farmer Mac’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications
	Certain reclassifications of prior period information were made to conform to the current period presentation.

Accounting_Policies_Tables

Accounting Policies - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures	The following table sets forth information regarding certain cash and non-cash transactions for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 2.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Cash paid during the period for:
	Interest	$	171,644	$	114,609		$	112,663
	Income taxes	12,750		23,000			21,500
	Non-cash activity:
	Real estate owned acquired through loan liquidation	—		1,443			2,280
	Loans acquired and securitized as Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	175,754		150,417			32,736
	Purchases of securities - traded, not yet settled	70,178		—			—
	Consolidation of Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities from off-balance sheet to loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and to debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	199,906		150,417			32,736
	Deconsolidation of loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties - transferred to off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities	—		—			460,261
	Transfers of loans held for sale to loans held for investment	—		673,991			—
	Transfers of available-for-sale Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities to held-to-maturity	1,632,786		—			—
Earnings Per Common Share	The following schedule reconciles basic and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 2.2
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014							2013										2012
		Net		Weighted-Average Shares		$ per			Net			Weighted-Average Shares			$ per				Net		Weighted-Average Shares	$ per
		Income				Share			Income						Share				Income			Share
		(in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Basic EPS
	Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	38,251	10,920		$	3.5		$	71,833		10,816			$	6.64			$	43,894	10,479	$	4.19
	Effect of dilutive securities (1):
	Stock options, SARs and restricted stock	—		447		(0.13		)	—			393			(0.23		)		—		540	(0.21		)
	Diluted EPS	$	38,251	11,367		$	3.37		$	71,833		11,209			$	6.41			$	43,894	11,019	$	3.98
	-1	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, stock options and SARs of 109,143, 33,730, and 317,253, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share of common stock because they were anti-dilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, contingent shares of non-vested restricted stock of 36,784, 26,696, and 79,300, respectively, were outstanding but not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share of common stock because performance conditions were not met.
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities	The following tables present, by line of business, details about the consolidation of VIEs:
	Table 2.3
		Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
		As of December 31, 2014
		Farm & Ranch		USDA Guarantees			Rural Utilities			Institutional Credit			Corporate				Total
		(in thousands)
	On-Balance Sheet:
	Consolidated VIEs:
	Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost (1)	$	421,355	$	—		$	271,123		$	—		$	—			$	692,478
	Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties (2)	424,214		—			—			—			—				424,214
	Unconsolidated VIEs:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Carrying value (3)	—		27,620			—			32,415			—				60,035
	Maximum exposure to loss (4)	—		27,832			—			30,000			—				57,832
	Investment securities:
	Carrying value (5)	—		—			—			—			409,657				409,657
	Maximum exposure to loss (4) (5)	—		—			—			—			412,690				412,690
	Off-Balance Sheet:
	Unconsolidated VIEs:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Maximum exposure to loss (4) (6)	636,086		13,978			—			970,000			—				1,620,064
	(1) Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $3.7 million.
	(2) Includes borrower remittances of $2.9 million. The borrower remittances have not been passed through to third party investors as of December 31, 2014.
	(3) Includes $0.2 million of unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees line of business. Includes fair value adjustments related to the Institutional Credit line of business of $2.4 million.
	(4) Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
	(5) Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and government-sponsored enterprise ("GSE")-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.
	(6) The amount under the Farm & Ranch line of business relates to unconsolidated trusts where Farmer Mac determined it was not the primary beneficiary due to shared power with an unrelated party.
		Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
		As of December 31, 2013
		Farm & Ranch		USDA Guarantees			Rural Utilities			Institutional Credit			Corporate				Total
		(in thousands)
	On-Balance Sheet:
	Consolidated VIEs:
	Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost (1)	$	259,509	$	—		$	370,480		$	—		$	—			$	629,989
	Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties (2)	261,760		—			—			—			—				261,760
	Unconsolidated VIEs:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Carrying value (3)	—		21,234			—			33,248			—				54,482
	Maximum exposure to loss (4)	—		21,088			—			30,000			—				51,088
	Investment securities:
	Carrying value (5)	—		—			—			—			533,688				533,688
	Maximum exposure to loss (4) (5)	—		—			—			—			540,726				540,726
	Off-Balance Sheet:
	Unconsolidated VIEs:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Maximum exposure to loss (4) (6)	765,751		20,222			—			970,000			—				1,755,973
	(1) Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $16.2 million.
	(2) Includes borrower remittances of $2.3 million, which have not been passed through to third party investors as of December 31, 2013.
	(3) Includes unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees and Institutional Credit lines of business of $0.1 million and $3.2 million, respectively.
	(4) Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and the outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
	(5) Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and GSE-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.
	(6) The amount under the Farm & Ranch line of business relates to unconsolidated trusts where Farmer Mac determined it was not the primary beneficiary due to shared power with an unrelated party.

Related_Party_Transactions_Tab

Related Party Transactions - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	The following transactions occurred between Farmer Mac and Zions during 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 3.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Unpaid Principal Balance:
	Purchases:
	Loans	$	155,808	$	210,088	$	168,826
	USDA Securities	42,637		13,153		14,415
	On-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	50,237		—		—
	Sales of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	147,234		120,409		5,327
CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	The following transactions occurred between Farmer Mac and CFC during 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 3.2
	Farmer Mac Loan Purchases and Guarantees
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Unpaid Principal Balance:
	Loans	$	75,500	$	86,965	$	166,117
	On-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	820,775		820,000		383,406
	Off-balance sheet AgVantage Securities	7,190		—		—
	Total purchases and guarantees	$	903,465	$	906,965	$	549,523

Investment_Securities_Tables

Investment Securities - (Tables) (Investment Securities [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investment Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]	The following tables set forth information about Farmer Mac's investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 4.1
		As of December 31, 2014
		Amount Outstanding		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	46,600	$	—		$	46,600	$	—		$	(6,024	)	$	40,576
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	100,730		(74		)	100,656		283			(37		)	100,902
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	10,000		—			10,000		91			—			10,091
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	30,000		(10		)	29,990		35			—			30,025
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	605,053		3,431			608,484		4,712			(443		)	612,753
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (1)	853		3,542			4,395		3,807			—			8,202
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	70,000		—			70,000		—			(3,680		)	66,320
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	18,806		130			18,936		3			—			18,939
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	75,000		(10		)	74,990		—			(11		)	74,979
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	975,194		462			975,656		72			(16		)	975,712
	Total available-for-sale	1,932,236		7,471			1,939,707		9,003			(10,211		)	1,938,499
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	2,868		—			2,868		—			(2,179		)	689
	Total investment securities	$	1,935,104	$	7,471		$	1,942,575	$	9,003		$	(12,390	)	$	1,939,188
	-1	Fair value includes $7.3 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.
		As of December 31, 2013
		Amount Outstanding		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	74,100	$	—		$	74,100	$	—		$	(8,815	)	$	65,285
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	166,185		(217		)	165,968		195			(59		)	166,104
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	109,345		(3		)	109,342		445			(18		)	109,769
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	55,000		48			55,048		97			(4		)	55,141
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	612,413		4,336			616,749		4,955			(435		)	621,269
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities (1)	1,173		3,966			5,139		3,518			—			8,657
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	70,000		—			70,000		—			(6,615		)	63,385
	Fixed rate GSE preferred stock	78,500		365			78,865		4,296			—			83,161
	Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	30,595		84			30,679		5			(3		)	30,681
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	523,691		294			523,985		107			(30		)	524,062
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	754,405		1,141			755,546		95			(8		)	755,633
	Total available-for-sale	2,475,407		10,014			2,485,421		13,713			(15,987		)	2,483,147
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	3,553		—			3,553		—			(2,625		)	928
	Total investment securities	$	2,478,960	$	10,014		$	2,488,974	$	13,713		$	(18,612	)	$	2,484,075
	-1	Fair value includes $7.4 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unrealized losses on available-for-sale investment securities were as follows:
	Table 4.2
		As of December 31, 2014
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—	$	—		$	40,576	$	(6,024	)
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	19,388		(37		)	—		—
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	76,100		(164		)	76,867		(279		)
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—		—			66,320		(3,680		)
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	74,980		(11		)	—		—
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	325,033		(16		)	—		—
	Total	$	495,501	$	(228	)	$	183,763	$	(9,983	)
		As of December 31, 2013
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—	$	—		$	65,285	$	(8,815	)
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	50,129		(59		)	—		—
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	19,982		(18		)	—		—
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	10,058		(4		)	—		—
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	161,960		(435		)	—		—
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—		—			63,385		(6,615		)
	Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	8,041		(3		)	—		—
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	316,273		(30		)	—		—
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	118,056		(8		)	—		—
	Total	$	684,499	$	(557	)	$	128,670	$	(15,430	)
	The unrealized losses presented above are principally due to a general widening of credit spreads from the dates of acquisition to December 31, 2014 and 2013, as applicable. The resulting decrease in fair values reflects an increase in the perceived risk by the financial markets related to those securities. As of December 31, 2014, all of the investment securities in an unrealized loss position either were backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government or had credit ratings of at least "AA+," except one that was rated "A-." As of December 31, 2013, all of the investment securities in an unrealized loss position either were backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government or had credit ratings of at least "AA+," except two that were rated "A-" and one that was rated "BBB+." The unrealized losses were on 35 and 64 individual investment securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	As of December 31, 2014, 15 of the securities in loss positions had been in loss positions for more than 12 months and had a total unrealized loss of $10.0 million. As of December 31, 2013, 7 of the securities in loss positions had been in loss positions for more than 12 months and had a total unrealized loss of $15.4 million.  Securities in unrealized loss positions for 12 months or longer have a fair value as of December 31, 2014 that is, on average, approximately 95 percent of their amortized cost basis. Farmer Mac believes that all of these unrealized losses are recoverable within a reasonable period of time by way of changes in credit spreads or maturity. Accordingly, Farmer Mac has concluded that none of the unrealized losses on these available-for-sale investment securities represents other-than-temporary impairment as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. Farmer Mac does not intend to sell these securities and it is not more likely than not that Farmer Mac will be required to sell the securities before recovery of the amortized cost basis.
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	The amortized cost, fair value, and weighted average yield of available-for-sale investment securities by remaining contractual maturity as of December 31, 2014 are set forth below. Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities are included based on their final maturities, although the actual maturities may differ due to prepayments of the underlying assets.
	Table 4.3
		As of December 31, 2014
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
		Cost					Average
							Yield
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year	$	1,014,587	$	1,014,679		0.30%
	Due after one year through five years	156,022		156,719			0.87%
	Due after five years through ten years	261,556		262,917			0.85%
	Due after ten years	507,542		504,184			1.00%
	Total	$	1,939,707	$	1,938,499		0.60%

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti1

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - (Tables) (Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Marketable Securities [Table Text Block]	The following tables set forth information about on-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 5.1
		As of December 31, 2014
		Unpaid Principal Balance		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Held-to-maturity:
	AgVantage	$	1,785,340	$	9,280		$	1,794,620	$	6,211		$	(255	)	$	1,800,576
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	3,625,073	$	—		$	3,625,073	$	36,442		$	(29,853	)	$	3,631,662
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	27,831		(442		)	27,389		237			(7		)	27,619
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	3,652,904		(442		)	3,652,462		36,679			(29,860		)	3,659,281
	USDA Securities	1,717,813		3,162			1,720,975		11,850			(1,603		)	1,731,222
	Total available-for-sale	$	5,370,717	$	2,720		$	5,373,437	$	48,529		$	(31,463	)	$	5,390,503
	Trading:
	USDA Securities	$	38,412	$	2,748		$	41,160	$	114		$	(964	)	$	40,310
		As of December 31, 2013
		Unpaid Principal Balance		Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			Amortized		Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
							Cost		Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	5,066,855	$	125		$	5,066,980	$	64,051		$	(60,665	)	$	5,070,366
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	21,089		(518		)	20,571		669			(6		)	21,234
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,087,944		(393		)	5,087,551		64,720			(60,671		)	5,091,600
	USDA Securities	1,590,433		4,585			1,595,018		2,753			(44,102		)	1,553,669
	Total available-for-sale	$	6,678,377	$	4,192		$	6,682,569	$	67,473		$	(104,773	)	$	6,645,269
	Trading:
	USDA Securities	$	55,373	$	4,972		$	60,345	$	193		$	(2,194	)	$	58,344
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, unrealized losses on held-to-maturity and available-for-sale on-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities were as follows:
	Table 5.2
		As of December 31, 2014
		Held-to-Maturity and Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Held-to-maturity:
	AgVantage	$	547	$	(1	)	$	49,745	$	(254	)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	685,131	$	(13,115	)	1,460,089		$	(16,738	)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	3,720		(7		)	—		—
	USDA Securities	264,375		(1,549		)	97,817		(54		)
	Total available-for-sale	$	953,226	$	(14,671	)	$	1,557,906	$	(16,792	)
		December 31, 2013
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Unrealized loss position for					Unrealized loss position for
		less than 12 months					more than 12 months
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair Value		Unrealized
				Loss					Loss
		(in thousands)
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	$	1,157,656	$	(51,923	)	$	763,885	$	(8,742	)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	343		(6		)	—		—
	USDA Securities	1,070,816		(44,040		)	104,416		(62		)
	Total	$	2,228,815	$	(95,969	)	$	868,301	$	(8,804	)
	The unrealized losses presented above are principally due to higher interest rates from the date of acquisition to December 31, 2014 and 2013, as applicable. The credit exposure related to Farmer Mac's USDA Guarantees line of business is covered by the full faith and credit guarantee of the United States. The unrealized losses from AgVantage securities were on 2 held-to-maturity securities and 23 available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2014. The unrealized losses from AgVantage securities were on 27 available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014, 15 available-for-sale AgVantage securities had been in a loss position for more than 12 months with a total unrealized loss of $16.7 million. As of December 31, 2013, 13 available-for-sale AgVantage securities had been in a loss position for more than 12 months with a total unrealized loss of $8.7 million. AgVantage® is a registered trademark of Farmer Mac used to designate Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities that are general obligations of lenders secured by pools of eligible loans, with such Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities referred to herein as AgVantage securities. Each AgVantage security backed by agricultural mortgages requires some level of overcollateralization, or, in the case of rural utilities loans, 100 percent collateralization, and is secured by eligible loans of the issuing institution with a requirement that delinquent loans be removed from the collateral pool and then replaced with current eligible loans. Thus, Farmer Mac does not believe it will realize any of the losses presented above. Farmer Mac has concluded that none of the unrealized losses on its held-to-maturity Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and available-for-sale Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities are other-than-temporary impairment as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Farmer Mac does not intend to sell these securities, and it is not more likely than not that Farmer Mac will be required to sell the securities before recovery of the amortized cost basis.
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	The amortized cost, fair value, and weighted average yield of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities by remaining contractual maturity as of December 31, 2014 are set forth below. The balances presented are based on their final maturities, although the actual maturities may differ due to prepayments of the underlying assets.
	Table 5.3
		As of December 31, 2014
		Available-for-Sale Securities
		Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
		Cost					Average
							Yield
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year	$	109,217	$	106,395		0.93	%
	Due after one year through five years	1,686,323		1,708,230			1.84	%
	Due after five years through ten years	1,449,257		1,455,096			1.72	%
	Due after ten years	2,128,640		2,120,782			2.57	%
	Total	$	5,373,437	$	5,390,503		2.07	%
		As of December 31, 2014
		Held-to-Maturity Securities
		Amortized		Fair Value			Weighted-
		Cost					Average
							Yield
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year	$	606,442	$	606,627		2.74	%
	Due after one year through five years	1,178,000		1,183,351			2.23	%
	Due after five years through ten years	10,178		10,598			3.25	%
	Total	$	1,794,620	$	1,800,576		2.4	%

Financial_Derivatives_Tables

Financial Derivatives - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]	The following tables summarize information related to Farmer Mac's financial derivatives on a gross basis without giving consideration to master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the effects of financial derivatives on the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 6.1
		As of December 31, 2014
					Fair Value						Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-
											Average	Average Receive Rate	Average	Average
											Pay Rate		Forward	Remaining
		Notional Amount			Asset			(Liability)					Price	Life (in years)
		(dollars in thousands)
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	$	1,000,000		$	—		$	(31,718	)	2.47%	0.23%		3.98
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	15,000			—			(289		)	2.43%	0.51%		6.23
	No hedge designation:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	490,183			537			(51,224		)	4.23%	0.23%		7.05
	Receive fixed non-callable	3,829,355			3,414			(461		)	0.14%	0.27%		0.55
	Receive fixed callable	383,565			1			(877		)	0.12%	1.34%		3.47
	Basis swaps	1,105,000			247			(406		)	0.11%	0.31%		2.42
	Agency forwards	12,768			—			(53		)			101
	Treasury futures	1,700			—			(3		)			126.6
	Credit valuation adjustment				(22		)	187
	Total financial derivatives	$	6,837,571		$	4,177		$	(84,844	)
	Collateral pledged				—			46,627
	Net amount				$	4,177		$	(38,217	)
		As of December 31, 2013
					Fair Value						Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-	Weighted-
											Average	Average Receive Rate	Average	Average
											Pay Rate		Forward	Remaining
		Notional Amount			Asset			(Liability)					Price	Life (in years)
		(dollars in thousands)
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	$	900,000		$	—		$	(28,989	)	2.25%	0.24%		3.25
	Cash flow hedges:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	10,000			68			—			2.50%	0.48%		6.95
	No hedge designation:
	Interest rate swaps:
	Pay fixed non-callable	806,596			7,570			(45,360		)	4.63%	0.24%		4.86
	Receive fixed non-callable	4,324,663			11,836			(262		)	0.27%	0.70%		0.53
	Receive fixed callable	175,000			83			(934		)	0.10%	0.65%		3.3
	Basis swaps	404,288			276			(318		)	0.32%	0.29%		1.52
	Agency forwards	65,704			86			—					98.91
	Treasury futures	5,600			—			(1		)			123.02
	Credit valuation adjustment				(201		)	156
	Total financial derivatives	$	6,691,851		$	19,718		$	(75,708	)
	Collateral pledged				—			11,320
	Net amount				$	19,718		$	(64,388	)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]	Table 6.2
		(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Fair value hedges:
	Interest rate swaps (1)	$	(2,729	)	$	29,538		$	(404	)
	Hedged items	14,520			(18,230		)	6,388
	Gains on hedging activities	11,791			11,308			5,984
	No hedge designation:
	Interest rate swaps	(31,111		)	21,355			(24,763		)
	Agency forwards	(1,842		)	(1,002		)	(828		)
	Treasury futures	(484		)	103			(129		)
	Credit default swaps	—			—			(93		)
	(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives not designated in hedging relationships	(33,437		)	20,456			(25,813		)
	(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	$	(21,646	)	$	31,764		$	(19,829	)
	-1	Included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness as of December 31, 2014, but excluded from the amounts in the table, were losses of $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship. Accordingly, the amounts recognized as hedge ineffectiveness for the year ended December 31, 2014 were losses of $0.2 million. The comparable amounts as of December 31, 2013 were losses of $11.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship and, accordingly, gains of $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, attributable to hedge ineffectiveness. The comparable amounts as of December 31, 2012 were losses of $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, attributable to the fair value of the swaps at the inception of the hedging relationship and, accordingly, gains of $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, attributable to hedge ineffectiveness.

Notes_Payable_Tables

Notes Payable - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	e following tables set forth information related to Farmer Mac's borrowings as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 7.1
		31-Dec-14
		Outstanding as of December 31						Average Outstanding During the Year
		Amount			Rate			Amount		Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year:
	Discount notes	$	4,925,828		0.11	%		$	4,059,708	0.15	%
	Medium-term notes	754,988			0.17	%		532,621		0.15	%
	Current portion of long-term notes	1,673,137			0.98	%
	Total due within one year	$	7,353,953		0.32	%
	Due after one year:
	Medium-term notes due in:
	2016	$	1,569,961		1.16	%
	2017	1,219,192			0.9	%
	2018	682,224			1.28	%
	2019	872,576			1.42	%
	Thereafter	1,127,233			3.09	%
	Total due after one year	5,471,186			1.56	%
	Total	$	12,825,139		0.85	%
		December 31, 2013
		Outstanding as of December 31						Average Outstanding During the Year
		Amount			Rate			Amount		Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Due within one year:
	Discount notes	$	4,880,971		0.12	%		$	4,365,045	0.18	%
	Medium-term notes	179,999			0.17	%		167,617		0.16	%
	Current portion of long-term notes	2,277,811			1.79	%
		$	7,338,781		0.64	%
	Due after one year:
	Medium-term notes due in:
	2015	$	1,411,140		1.14	%
	2016	1,290,629			1.33	%
	2017	528,322			1.23	%
	2018	675,968			1.33	%
	Thereafter	1,095,110			2.85	%
	Total due after one year	5,001,169			1.6	%
	Total	$	12,339,950		1.03	%
	The maximum amount of Farmer Mac's discount notes outstanding at any month end during each of the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $4.9 billion.
	Callable medium-term notes give Farmer Mac the option to redeem the debt at par value on a specified call date or at any time on or after a specified call date.  The following table summarizes by maturity date the amounts and costs for Farmer Mac debt callable in 2015 as of December 31, 2014:
	Table 7.2
	Debt Callable in 2015 as of December 31, 2014
	Maturity		Amount			Rate
	(dollars in thousands)
	2016		$	78,960		0.57	%
	2017		507,893			0.48	%
	2018		149,944			0.92	%
	2019		402,393			1.02	%
	Thereafter		279,157			2.64	%
			$	1,418,347		1.11	%
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	e following schedule summarizes the earliest interest rate reset date of total borrowings outstanding as of December 31, 2014 , including callable and non-callable medium-term notes, assuming callable notes are redeemed at the initial call date:
	Table 7.3
		Earliest Interest Rate Reset Date of Borrowings Outstanding
		Amount			Weighted-Average Rate
		(dollars in thousands)
	Debt with interest rate resets in:
	2015	$	8,887,288		0.44%
	2016	1,391,014			1.26%
	2017	711,299			1.19%
	2018	532,279			1.38%
	2019	470,183			1.76%
	Thereafter	833,076			3.29%
	Total	$	12,825,139		0.85%
	During 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac called $0.5 billion and $0.4 billion of callable medium-term notes, respectively.

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses1

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]	Loans
	Farmer Mac classifies loans as either held for investment or held for sale. Loans held for investment are recorded at the unpaid principal balance, net of unamortized premium or discount and other cost adjustments. Loans held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or fair value determined on a pooled basis. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac had no loans held for sale. The following table displays the composition of the loan balances as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.1
		As of December 31, 2014									As of December 31, 2013
		Unsecuritized			In Consolidated Trusts			Total			Unsecuritized			In Consolidated Trusts			Total
		(in thousands)
	Farm & Ranch	$	2,118,867		$	421,355		$	2,540,222		$	1,875,958		$	259,509		$	2,135,467
	Rural Utilities	718,213			267,396			985,609			698,010			354,241			1,052,251
	Total unpaid principal balance (1)	2,837,080			688,751			3,525,831			2,573,968			613,750			3,187,718
	Unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments	(3,619		)	3,727			108			(3,843		)	16,239			12,396
	Total loans	2,833,461			692,478			3,525,939			2,570,125			629,989			3,200,114
	Allowance for loan losses	(5,324		)	(540		)	(5,864		)	(6,587		)	(279		)	(6,866		)
	Total loans, net of allowance	$	2,828,137		$	691,938		$	3,520,075		$	2,563,538		$	629,710		$	3,193,248
	-1	Unpaid principal balance is the basis of presentation in disclosures of outstanding balances for Farmer Mac's lines of business.
Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	Allowances for Losses
	Farmer Mac maintains an allowance for losses presented in two components on its consolidated balance sheets: an allowance for loan losses to account for estimated probable losses on loans held, and a reserve for losses to account for estimated probable losses on loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.  As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Farmer Mac recorded allowances for losses of $10.1 million and $13.3 million, respectively. See Note 5 and Note 12 for more information about Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities.
	The following is a summary of the changes in the allowance for losses for each year in the three-year period ended December 31, 2014:
	Table 8.2
		Allowance			Reserve			Total
		for Loan			for Losses			Allowance
		Losses						for Losses
		(in thousands)
	Balance as of January 1, 2012	$	10,161		$	7,355		$	17,516
	Provision for/(release of) losses	3,691			(1,816		)	1,875
	Charge-offs	(2,501		)	—			(2,501		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	11,351		$	5,539		$	16,890
	(Release of)/provision for losses	(481		)	929			448
	Charge-offs	(4,004		)	—			(4,004		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	6,866		$	6,468		$	13,334
	Release of losses	(961		)	(2,205		)	(3,166		)
	Charge-offs	(86		)	—			(86		)
	Recoveries	45			—			45
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	5,864		$	4,263		$	10,127
	During 2014, Farmer Mac recorded releases from its allowance for loan losses of $1.0 million and releases from its reserve for losses of $2.2 million, primarily related to a decrease in the balance of its ethanol loans as well as a general improvement in the quality of the ethanol loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs. Farmer Mac recorded $0.1 million of charge-offs and recoveries of $45,000 to its allowance for loan losses during 2014.
	During 2013, Farmer Mac recorded releases from its allowance for loan losses of $0.5 million and provisions to its reserve for losses of $0.9 million. Farmer Mac also recorded $4.0 million of charge-offs to its allowance for loan losses during 2013. Charge-offs recorded during 2013 included a $3.6 million charge-off related to one ethanol loan that transitioned to real estate owned ("REO") for which Farmer Mac had previously provided a specific allowance.
	During 2012, Farmer Mac recorded provisions to its allowance for loan losses of $3.7 million and releases from its reserve for losses of $1.8 million. In fourth quarter 2012, Farmer Mac purchased one defaulted ethanol loan pursuant to the terms of an LTSPC agreement. This resulted in the reclassification of a specific allowance of $3.2 million from the reserve for losses to the allowance for loan losses. The provision for/(release of) losses for 2012 reflects this reclassification as well as an increase in the specific allowance for this loan during 2012 prior to purchase. Farmer Mac also recorded charge-offs of $2.5 million to its allowance for loan losses during 2012.
	The following tables present the changes in the total allowance for losses for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 by commodity type:
	Table 8.3
		31-Dec-14
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	For the Year Ended:
	Beginning Balance	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
	Provision for/(release of) losses	395			(72		)	209			42			(3,740		)	—			(3,166		)
	Charge-offs	—			—			(57		)	(29		)	—			—			(86		)
	Recoveries	—			45			—			—			—			—			45
	Ending Balance	$	2,519		$	2,159		$	1,423		$	467		$	3,552		$	7		$	10,127
		31-Dec-13
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	For the Year Ended:
	Beginning Balance	$	2,589		$	2,316		$	1,534		$	784		$	9,661		$	6		$	16,890
	(Release of)/provision for losses	(420		)	(130		)	(263		)	4			1,256			1			448
	Charge-offs	(45		)	—			—			(334		)	(3,625		)	—			(4,004		)
	Ending Balance	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
Schedule of Allowance for Losses by Impairment Method and Commodity [Table Text Block]	The following tables present the unpaid principal balances of loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and the related total allowance for losses by impairment method and commodity type as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.4
		As of December 31, 2014
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Ending Balance:
	Collectively evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,621,360		$	359,517		$	406,049		$	57,851		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,473,780
	Off-balance sheet	1,305,141			521,535			839,286			102,857			85,357			6,781			2,860,957
	Total	$	2,926,501		$	881,052		$	1,245,335		$	160,708		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,334,737
	Individually evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	12,307		$	35,904		$	6,571		$	11,660		$	—		$	—		$	66,442
	Off-balance sheet	2,458			3,239			8,712			1,586			—			—			15,995
	Total	$	14,765		$	39,143		$	15,283		$	13,246		$	—		$	—		$	82,437
	Total Farm & Ranch loans:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,633,667		$	395,421		$	412,620		$	69,511		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,540,222
	Off-balance sheet	1,307,599			524,774			847,998			104,443			85,357			6,781			2,876,952
	Total	$	2,941,266		$	920,195		$	1,260,618		$	173,954		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,417,174
	Allowance for Losses:
	Collectively evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,824		$	495		$	658		$	51		$	503		$	—		$	3,531
	Off-balance sheet	298			149			404			52			3,049			7			3,959
	Total	$	2,122		$	644		$	1,062		$	103		$	3,552		$	7		$	7,490
	Individually evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	283		$	1,410		$	328		$	312		$	—		$	—		$	2,333
	Off-balance sheet	114			105			33			52			—			—			304
	Total	$	397		$	1,515		$	361		$	364		$	—		$	—		$	2,637
	Total Farm & Ranch loans:
	On-balance sheet	$	2,107		$	1,905		$	986		$	363		$	503		$	—		$	5,864
	Off-balance sheet	412			254			437			104			3,049			7			4,263
	Total	$	2,519		$	2,159		$	1,423		$	467		$	3,552		$	7		$	10,127
		As of December 31, 2013
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Ending Balance:
	Collectively evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,363,861		$	295,037		$	319,665		$	39,940		$	32,636		$	359		$	2,051,498
	Off-balance sheet	1,279,887			567,932			912,397			109,884			138,282			8,159			3,016,541
	Total	$	2,643,748		$	862,969		$	1,232,062		$	149,824		$	170,918		$	8,518		$	5,068,039
	Individually evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	21,147		$	41,441		$	10,844		$	10,422		$	—		$	115		$	83,969
	Off-balance sheet	1,962			3,414			3,199			2,497			—			—			11,072
	Total	$	23,109		$	44,855		$	14,043		$	12,919		$	—		$	115		$	95,041
	Total Farm & Ranch loans:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,385,008		$	336,478		$	330,509		$	50,362		$	32,636		$	474		$	2,135,467
	Off-balance sheet	1,281,849			571,346			915,596			112,381			138,282			8,159			3,027,613
	Total	$	2,666,857		$	907,824		$	1,246,105		$	162,743		$	170,918		$	8,633		$	5,163,080
	Allowance for Losses:
	Collectively evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,321		$	325		$	436		$	20		$	2,290		$	—		$	4,392
	Off-balance sheet	397			159			642			42			5,002			4			6,246
	Total	$	1,718		$	484		$	1,078		$	62		$	7,292		$	4		$	10,638
	Individually evaluated for impairment:
	On-balance sheet	$	362		$	1,641		$	140		$	331		$	—		$	—		$	2,474
	Off-balance sheet	44			61			53			61			—			3			222
	Total	$	406		$	1,702		$	193		$	392		$	—		$	3		$	2,696
	Total Farm & Ranch loans:
	On-balance sheet	$	1,683		$	1,966		$	576		$	351		$	2,290		$	—		$	6,866
Off-balance sheet	441			220			695			103			5,002			7			6,468
Total	$	2,124		$	2,186		$	1,271		$	454		$	7,292		$	7		$	13,334
Impaired Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	The following tables present by commodity type the unpaid principal balances, recorded investment, and specific allowance for losses related to impaired loans and the recorded investment in loans on nonaccrual status as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.5
		As of December 31, 2014
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including
														ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Impaired Loans:
	With no specific allowance:
	Recorded investment	$	4,877		$	5,837		$	9,576		$	2,001		$	—		$	—		$	22,291
	Unpaid principal balance	4,723			5,750			9,386			1,981			—			—			21,840
	With a specific allowance:
	Recorded investment (1)	10,753			33,690			5,979			11,350			—			—			61,772
	Unpaid principal balance	10,042			33,393			5,897			11,265			—			—			60,597
	Associated allowance	397			1,515			361			364			—			—			2,637
	Total:
	Recorded investment	15,630			39,527			15,555			13,351			—			—			84,063
	Unpaid principal balance	14,765			39,143			15,283			13,246			—			—			82,437
	Associated allowance	397			1,515			361			364			—			—			2,637
	Recorded investment of loans on nonaccrual status (2)	$	5,168		$	14,413		$	4,438		$	6,133		$	—		$	—		$	30,152
	-1	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $54.4 million (65 percent) of impaired loans as of December 31, 2014, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.2 million.
	-2	Includes $11.7 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.
		As of December 31, 2013
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including
														ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Impaired Loans:
	With no specific allowance:
	Recorded investment	$	6,956		$	9,880		$	6,671		$	1,444		$	—		$	—		$	24,951
	Unpaid principal balance	6,825			9,877			6,588			1,443			—			—			24,733
	With a specific allowance:
	Recorded investment (1)	16,697			36,146			7,600			11,554			—			119			72,116
	Unpaid principal balance	16,284			34,978			7,455			11,476			—			115			70,308
	Associated allowance	406			1,702			193			392			—			3			2,696
	Total:
	Recorded investment	23,653			46,026			14,271			12,998			—			119			97,067
	Unpaid principal balance	23,109			44,855			14,043			12,919			—			115			95,041
	Associated allowance	406			1,702			193			392			—			3			2,696
	Recorded investment of loans on nonaccrual status (2)	$	10,812		$	15,237		$	5,344		$	5,835		$	—		$	—		$	37,228
	-1	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $65.1 million (67 percent) of impaired loans as of December 31, 2013, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.3 million.
	-2	Includes $9.6 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.
	The following table presents by commodity type the average recorded investment and interest income recognized on impaired loans for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.6
		31-Dec-14
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including
														ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	For the Year Ended:
	Average recorded investment in impaired loans	$	20,625		$	43,221		$	13,543		$	12,596		$	—		$	24		$	90,009
	Income recognized on impaired loans	373			474			327			359			—			—			1,533
		31-Dec-13
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including
														ethanol
														facilities)
	(in thousands)
For the Year Ended:
Average recorded investment in impaired loans	$	28,387		$	42,838		$	16,117		$	13,042		$	867		$	481		$	101,732
Income recognized on impaired loans	793			2,254			277			444			—			—			3,768
Schedule of Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Acquired During Period [Table Text Block]	The following tables present information related to Farmer Mac's acquisition of defaulted loans for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 and the outstanding balances and carrying amounts of all such loans as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 8.7
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Unpaid principal balance at acquisition date:
	Loans underlying LTSPCs	$	705		$	37		$	8,091
	Loans underlying off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			6,667			8,933
	Total unpaid principal balance at acquisition date	705			6,704			17,024
	Contractually required payments receivable	705			6,907			17,432
	Impairment recognized subsequent to acquisition	69			477			4,774
	Recovery/release of allowance for defaulted loans	233			949			997
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Outstanding balance	$	24,921		$	32,838		$	41,737
	Carrying amount	22,149			29,613			33,798
Past Due Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	Net credit losses and 90-day delinquencies as of and for the periods indicated for loans held and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs are presented in the table below.  As of December 31, 2014, there were no delinquencies and no probable losses inherent in Farmer Mac's Rural Utilities loan portfolio and Farmer Mac had not experienced credit losses on any Rural Utilities loans.
	Table 8.8
		90-Day Delinquencies (1)						Net Credit (Recoveries)/Losses
		As of December 31,						For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	On-balance sheet assets:
	Farm & Ranch:
	Loans	$	18,427		$	27,580		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
	Total on-balance sheet	$	18,427		$	27,580		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
	Off-balance sheet assets:
	Farm & Ranch:
	LTSPCs	$	490		$	716		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Total off-balance sheet	$	490		$	716		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Total	$	18,917		$	28,296		$	(6	)	$	2,975		$	1,673
	-1	Includes loans and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs that are 90 days or more past due, in foreclosure, restructured after delinquency, or in bankruptcy, excluding loans performing under either their original loan terms or a court-approved bankruptcy plan.
	Of the $18.4 million and $27.6 million of on-balance sheet loans reported as 90-day delinquencies as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, $1.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, were loans subject to "removal-of-account" provisions.
Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block]	The following tables present credit quality indicators related to Farm & Ranch loans held and loans underlying LTSPCs and off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 8.9
		As of December 31, 2014
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Credit risk profile by internally assigned grade (1)
	On-balance sheet:
	Acceptable	$	1,604,546		$	353,487		$	375,010		$	57,239		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,419,285
	Special mention (2)	16,814			6,030			31,039			612			—			—			54,495
	Substandard (3)	12,307			35,904			6,571			11,660			—			—			66,442
	Total on-balance sheet	$	1,633,667		$	395,421		$	412,620		$	69,511		$	29,003		$	—		$	2,540,222
	Off-Balance Sheet:
	Acceptable	$	1,282,773		$	503,414		$	799,047		$	97,692		$	64,363		$	6,117		$	2,753,406
	Special mention (2)	13,603			12,150			30,281			1,351			—			8			57,393
	Substandard (3)	11,223			9,210			18,670			5,400			20,994			656			66,153
	Total off-balance sheet	$	1,307,599		$	524,774		$	847,998		$	104,443		$	85,357		$	6,781		$	2,876,952
	Total Ending Balance:
	Acceptable	$	2,887,319		$	856,901		$	1,174,057		$	154,931		$	93,366		$	6,117		$	5,172,691
	Special mention (2)	30,417			18,180			61,320			1,963			—			8			111,888
	Substandard (3)	23,530			45,114			25,241			17,060			20,994			656			132,595
	Total	$	2,941,266		$	920,195		$	1,260,618		$	173,954		$	114,360		$	6,781		$	5,417,174
	Commodity analysis of past due loans (1)
	On-balance sheet	$	4,175		$	6,869		$	4,555		$	2,828		$	—		$	—		$	18,427
	Off-balance sheet	—			—			490			—			—			—			490
	90-days or more past due	$	4,175		$	6,869		$	5,045		$	2,828		$	—		$	—		$	18,917
	-1	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
	-2	Assets in the Special mention category generally have potential weaknesses due to performance issues but are currently considered to be adequately secured.
	-3	Substandard assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and there is a distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained if deficiencies are not corrected.
		As of December 31, 2013
		Crops			Permanent			Livestock			Part-time			Ag. Storage and			Other			Total
					Plantings						Farm			Processing
														(including ethanol
														facilities)
		(in thousands)
	Credit risk profile by internally assigned grade (1)
	On-balance sheet:
	Acceptable	$	1,348,205		$	290,064		$	300,308		$	39,022		$	10,987		$	359		$	1,988,945
	Special Mention (2)	15,656			4,973			19,357			918			6,267			—			47,171
	Substandard (3)	21,147			41,441			10,844			10,422			15,382			115			99,351
	Total on-balance sheet	$	1,385,008		$	336,478		$	330,509		$	50,362		$	32,636		$	474		$	2,135,467
	Off-Balance Sheet
	Acceptable	$	1,251,834		$	548,254		$	844,130		$	105,589		$	99,072		$	7,478		$	2,856,357
	Special Mention (2)	10,977			15,621			36,555			917			11,011			578			75,659
	Substandard (3)	19,038			7,471			34,911			5,875			28,199			103			95,597
	Total off-balance sheet	$	1,281,849		$	571,346		$	915,596		$	112,381		$	138,282		$	8,159		$	3,027,613
	Total Ending Balance:
	Acceptable	$	2,600,039		$	838,318		$	1,144,438		$	144,611		$	110,059		$	7,837		$	4,845,302
	Special Mention (2)	26,633			20,594			55,912			1,835			17,278			578			122,830
	Substandard (3)	40,185			48,912			45,755			16,297			43,581			218			194,948
	Total	$	2,666,857		$	907,824		$	1,246,105		$	162,743		$	170,918		$	8,633		$	5,163,080
	Commodity analysis of past due loans (1)
	On-balance sheet	$	8,036		$	11,841		$	4,462		$	3,122		$	—		$	119		$	27,580
	Off-balance sheet	220			—			—			496			—			—			716
	90-days or more past due	$	8,256		$	11,841		$	4,462		$	3,618		$	—		$	119		$	28,296
	-1	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
	-2	Assets in the Special mention category generally have potential weaknesses due to performance issues but are currently considered to be adequately secured.
	-3	Substandard assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and there is a distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained if deficiencies are not corrected.
Schedules of Concentration of Risk, by Risk Factor [Table Text Block]	Concentrations of Credit Risk
	The following table sets forth the geographic and commodity/collateral diversification, as well as the range of original loan-to-value ratios, for all Farm & Ranch loans held and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013:
	Table 8.10
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	By commodity/collateral type:
	Crops	$	2,941,266		$	2,666,857
	Permanent plantings	920,195			907,824
	Livestock	1,260,618			1,246,105
	Part-time farm	173,954			162,743
	Ag. Storage and Processing (including ethanol facilities)	114,360			170,918
	Other	6,781			8,633
	Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
	By geographic region (1):
	Northwest	$	573,135		$	524,034
	Southwest	1,753,606			1,752,109
	Mid-North	1,873,041			1,702,668
	Mid-South	627,615			601,359
	Northeast	214,402			231,731
	Southeast	375,375			351,179
	Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
	By original loan-to-value ratio:
	0.00% to 40.00%	$	1,503,076		$	1,375,758
	40.01% to 50.00%	1,191,804			1,099,033
	50.01% to 60.00%	1,491,502			1,431,562
	60.01% to 70.00%	1,091,759			1,113,427
	70.01% to 80.00%	115,645			110,828
	80.01% to 90.00%	23,388			32,472
	Total	$	5,417,174		$	5,163,080
	-1	Geographic regions:  Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY); Southwest (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT); Mid-North (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, NE, ND, SD, WI); Mid-South (AR, KS, LA, MO, OK, TX); Northeast (CT, DE, KY, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV); Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN).
	The original loan-to-value ratio is calculated by dividing the loan principal balance at the time of guarantee, purchase, or commitment by the appraised value at the date of loan origination or, when available, the updated appraised value at the time of guarantee, purchase, or commitment.  Current loan-to-value ratios may be higher or lower than the original loan-to-value ratios.

Equity_Tables

Equity - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	The following tables summarize stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 9.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014						2013					2012
		Stock			Weighted-			Stock			Weighted-		Stock		Weighted-
		Options			Average			Options			Average		Options		Average
		and			Exercise			and			Exercise		and		Exercise
		SARs			Price			SARs			Price		SARs		Price
	Outstanding, beginning of year	664,245			$	23.78		788,748			$	20.89	1,327,066		$	18.72
	Granted	87,600			34.92			94,017			31.24		157,983		22.32
	Exercised	(23,035	)		20.83			(208,877	)		16.24		(427,348	)	13.18
	Canceled	(10,667	)		31.16			(9,643	)		23.02		(268,953	)	23.29
	Outstanding, end of year	718,143			25.12			664,245			23.78		788,748		20.89
	Exercisable at end of year	548,180			23.12			483,216			22.83		574,439		21.76
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014						2013					2012
		Non-vested			Weighted-			Non-vested			Weighted-		Non-vested		Weighted-
		Restricted			Average			Restricted			Average		Restricted		Average
		Stock			Grant Date			Stock			Grant Date		Stock		Grant Date
					Fair Value						Fair Value				Fair Value
	Outstanding, beginning of year	98,285			$	27.66		91,311			$	18.75	196,076		$	12.15
	Granted	57,590			33.88			73,985			30.27		72,637		21.92
	Canceled	(8,360	)		21.72			(1,000	)		31.42		(59,624	)	16.98
	Vested and issued	(43,743	)		28.48			(66,011	)		18.21		(117,778	)	10.62
	Outstanding, end of year	103,772			31.24			98,285			27.66		91,311		18.75
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]	The following tables summarize information regarding stock options, SARs, and non-vested restricted stock outstanding as of December 31, 2014:
	Table 9.2
			Outstanding				Exercisable					Vested or Expected to Vest
	Range of		Stock Options and SARs			Weighted-	Stock Options and SARs			Weighted-		Stock Options and SARs	Weighted-
	Exercise Prices					Average Remaining Contractual Life				Average Remaining Contractual Life			Average Remaining Contractual Life
	$5.00 - $ 9.99		32,000			4.4 years	32,000			4.4 years		32,000	4.4 years
	10.00 - 14.99		66,665			5.4 years	66,665			5.4 years		66,665	5.4 years
	15.00 - 19.99		67,000			6.4 years	67,000			6.4 years		67,000	6.4 years
	20.00 - 24.99		127,703			4.9 years	101,036			4.3 years		125,295	4.9 years
	25.00 - 29.99		230,152			2.6 years	228,152			2.5 years		230,072	2.6 years
	30.00 - 34.99		136,623			7.6 years	53,327			6.2 years		132,349	7.6 years
	35.00 - 39.99		58,000			9.2 years	—			—		55,560	9.2 years
			718,143				548,180					708,941
			Outstanding				Expected to Vest
	Weighted-		Non-vested Restricted Stock			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual	Non-vested Restricted Stock			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual
	Average					Life				Life
	Grant-Date
	Fair Value
	20.00 - 24.99		12,000			0.2 years	11,160			0.2 years
	25.00 - 29.99		—			—	—			—
	30.00 - 34.99		90,223			1.7 years	85,012			1.7 years
	35.00 - 39.99		1,549			2.8 years	1,487			2.8 years
			103,772				97,659
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]	The fair values of stock options and SARs were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model based on the following assumptions:
	Table 9.3
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Risk-free interest rate	1.50%		0.60%		1.10%
	Expected years until exercise	4 years		4 years		5 years
	Expected stock volatility	49.70%		83.40%		94.60%
	Dividend yield	1.60%		1.50%		1.80%
	The risk-free interest rates used in the model were based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the grant date.  Farmer Mac used historical data to estimate the timing of option exercises and stock option cancellation rates used in the model.  Expected volatilities were based on historical volatility of Farmer Mac's Class C common stock.  The dividend yields were based on the expected dividends as a percentage of the value of Farmer Mac's Class C common stock on the grant date.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	Farmer Mac is subject to federal income taxes but is exempt from state and local income taxes.  The components of the federal income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 were as follows:
	Table 10.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Current income tax expense	$	9,803		$	27,082		$	24,138
	Deferred income tax (benefit)/expense	(6,979		)	6,670			(1,982		)
	Income tax expense	$	2,824		$	33,752		$	22,156
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	A reconciliation of tax at the statutory federal tax rate to the income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:
	Table 10.2
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(dollars in thousands)
	Tax expense at statutory rate	$	25,587		$	45,943		$	31,891
	Non-taxable dividend income	(1,587		)	(2,116		)	(2,116		)
	Income from non-controlling interest	(7,766		)	(7,766		)	(7,766		)
	Valuation allowance	(13,542		)	(2,693		)	6
	Other	132			384			141
	Income tax expense	$	2,824		$	33,752		$	22,156
	Statutory tax rate	35		%	35		%	35		%
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	The components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
	Table 10.3
		As of December 31,
		2014			2013
		(in thousands)
	Deferred tax assets:
	Basis differences related to financial derivatives	$	30,921		$	22,349
	Basis differences related to securities	4,218			2,509
	Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities	—			8,762
	Allowance for losses	3,545			4,667
	Stock-based compensation	2,443			1,916
	Capital loss carryforwards	2,105			38,532
	Valuation allowance	(2,105		)	(36,432		)
	Amortization of premiums on capital investments	—			1,499
	Valuation allowance	—			(1,499		)
	Other	1,205			2,455
	Total deferred tax assets	42,332			44,758
	Deferred tax liability:
	Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities	8,448			—
	Basis difference in subsidiary	195			353
	Other	298			360
	Total deferred tax liability	8,941			713
	Net deferred tax asset	$	33,391		$	44,045
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]	As of December 31, 2014 Farmer Mac did not identify any uncertain tax positions. As of December 31, 2013 both the recorded liability for uncertain tax positions and the corresponding deferred tax asset were $1.1 million.
	The following table presents the changes in unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 10.4
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Beginning balance	$	1,148		$	1,046		$	1,175
	Decreases based on tax positions related to prior years	(1,148		)	—			—
	Increases/(decreases) based on tax positions related to current year	—			102			(129		)
	Ending balance	$	—		$	1,148		$	1,046
	The resolution of the unrecognized tax benefits presented above represented temporary differences and, therefore, would not result in a change to Farmer Mac's effective tax rate.  As of December 31, 2013, accrued interest payable and the associated interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits was immaterial and was presented as a component of income taxes.  Farmer Mac does not expect to be subject to, and has not recorded tax penalties.  During 2014, the IRS examined Farmer Mac's uncertain tax positions reported in its 2011 tax return; as a result of the examination, Farmer Mac concluded it does not currently have any uncertain tax positions. Tax years 2012 through 2014 remain subject to examination.

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an1

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Guarantee Obligations Activity [Table Text Block]	The following table presents changes in Farmer Mac's guarantee and commitment obligations in the consolidated balance sheets for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	Table 12.1
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Beginning balance, January 1	$	39,667		$	37,803		$	27,440
	Additions to the guarantee and commitment obligation (1)	4,966			8,414			15,134
	Amortization of the guarantee and commitment obligation	(6,708		)	(6,550		)	(4,771		)
	Ending balance, December 31	$	37,925		$	39,667		$	37,803
	-1	Represents the fair value of the guarantee and commitment obligation at inception
Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table Text Block]	The following table presents the maximum principal amount of potential undiscounted future payments that Farmer Mac could be required to make under all off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, not including offsets provided by any recourse provisions, recoveries from third parties, or collateral for the underlying loans:
	Table 12.2
	Outstanding Balance of Off-Balance Sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities
		As of December 31, 2014			As of December 31, 2013
		(in thousands)
	Farm & Ranch:
	Guaranteed Securities	$	636,086		$	765,751
	USDA Guarantees:
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	13,978			20,222
	Institutional Credit:
	AgVantage Securities	986,528			981,009
	Total off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	$	1,636,592		$	1,766,982
	If Farmer Mac repurchases a loan that is collateral for a Farmer Mac Guaranteed Security, Farmer Mac would have the right to enforce the terms of the loan, and in the event of a default, would have access to the underlying collateral.  Farmer Mac typically recovers its investment in the defaulted loans purchased either through borrower payments, loan payoffs, payments by third parties, or foreclosure and sale of the property securing the loans.
Schedule of Cash Flows Related To Transfer of Securitizations [Table Text Block]	.
	Eligible loans and other eligible assets may be placed into trusts that are used as vehicles for the securitization of the transferred assets and the Farmer Mac-guaranteed beneficial interests in the trusts are sold to investors.  The following table summarizes the significant cash flows received from and paid to trusts used for Farmer Mac securitizations:
	Table 12.3
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014			2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Proceeds from new securitizations	$	175,754		$	150,417		$	38,063
	Guarantee fees received	4,612			5,182			5,197
	Purchases of assets from the trusts	—			(6,667		)	(8,933		)
	Farmer Mac has recorded a liability for its obligation to stand ready under the guarantee in the guarantee and commitment obligation on the consolidated balance sheets.  This liability approximated $11.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and $13.4 million as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the weighted-average remaining maturity of all loans underlying off-balance sheet Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, excluding AgVantage securities, was 12.0 years and 12.8 years, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the weighted-average remaining maturity of the off-balance sheet AgVantage securities was 2.4 years and 3.4 years, respectively.
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	The future minimum lease payments under Farmer Mac's non-cancellable leases for its office space and other contractual obligations are as follows:
	Table 12.4
		Future Minimum Lease Payments			Other Contractual Obligations
		(in thousands)
	2015	$	1,375		$	773
	2016	1,378			209
	2017	1,400			88
	2018	1,388			—
	2019	1,389			—
	Thereafter	6,951			—
	Total	$	13,881		$	1,070
	Other contractual obligations in the table above include minimum amounts due under non-cancellable agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and specify all significant terms.  These agreements include agreements for the provision of consulting services, information technology support, equipment maintenance, and financial analysis software and services.  The amounts actually paid under these agreements will likely be higher due to the variable components of some of these agreements under which the ultimate obligation owed is determined by reference to actual usage or hours worked.

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Tables

Fair Value Disclosures - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]	The following tables present information about Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and indicate the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques used by Farmer Mac to determine such fair value:
	Table 13.1
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value as of December 31, 2014
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
		(in thousands)
	Recurring:
	Assets:
	Investment Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—		$	—		$	40,576		$	40,576
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			100,902			—			100,902
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	—			10,091			—			10,091
	Fixed rate corporate debt securities	—			30,025			—			30,025
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			612,753			—			612,753
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			8,202			—			8,202
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—			66,320			—			66,320
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	—			18,939			—			18,939
	Floating rate U.S. Treasuries	74,979			—			—			74,979
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	975,712			—			—			975,712
	Total available-for-sale	1,050,691			847,232			40,576			1,938,499
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			—			689			689
	Total trading	—			—			689			689
	Total Investment Securities	1,050,691			847,232			41,265			1,939,188
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	—			—			3,631,662			3,631,662
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	—			—			27,619			27,619
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			—			3,659,281			3,659,281
	USDA Securities:
	Available-for-sale	—			—			1,731,222			1,731,222
	Trading	—			—			40,310			40,310
	Total USDA Securities	—			—			1,771,532			1,771,532
	Financial derivatives	—			4,177			—			4,177
	Total Assets at fair value	$	1,050,691		$	851,409		$	5,472,078		$	7,374,178
	Liabilities:
	Financial derivatives	3			84,841			—			84,844
	Total Liabilities at fair value	$	3		$	84,841		$	—		$	84,844
	Nonrecurring:
	Assets:
	Loans held for investment	$	—		$	—		$	5,973		$	5,973
	Total Nonrecurring Assets at fair value	$	—		$	—		$	5,973		$	5,973
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
		Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total
		(in thousands)
	Recurring:
	Assets:
	Investment Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	—		$	—		$	65,285		$	65,285
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			166,104			—			166,104
	Floating rate corporate debt securities	—			109,769			—			109,769
	Fixed rate corporate debt	—			55,141			—			55,141
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			621,064			205			621,269
	Fixed rate GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			8,657			—			8,657
	Floating rate GSE subordinated debt	—			63,385			—			63,385
	Fixed rate GSE preferred stock	—			83,161			—			83,161
	Fixed rate taxable municipal bonds	—			30,681			—			30,681
	Fixed rate senior agency debt	—			524,062			—			524,062
	Fixed rate U.S. Treasuries	755,633			—			—			755,633
	Total available-for-sale	755,633			1,662,024			65,490			2,483,147
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities	—			—			928			928
	Total trading	—			—			928			928
Total Investment Securities	755,633			1,662,024			66,418			2,484,075
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage	—			—			5,070,366			5,070,366
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	—			—			21,234			21,234
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	—			—			5,091,600			5,091,600
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	—			—			1,553,669			1,553,669
Trading	—			—			58,344			58,344
Total USDA Securities	—			—			1,612,013			1,612,013
Financial derivatives	—			19,718			—			19,718
Total Assets at fair value	$	755,633		$	1,681,742		$	6,770,031		$	9,207,406
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives	$	1		$	75,472		$	235		$	75,708
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	1		$	75,472		$	235		$	75,708
Nonrecurring:
Assets:
Loans held for investment	$	—		$	—		$	4,420		$	4,420
REO	—			—			1,818			1,818
Total Nonrecurring Assets at fair value	$	—		$	—		$	6,238		$	6,238
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	The following tables present additional information about assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which Farmer Mac has used significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value. Net transfers in and/or out of level 3 are based on the fair values of the assets and liabilities as of the beginning of the reporting period.
	Table 13.2
	Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Transfers Out			Ending
		Balance												Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included			Gains/(Losses)						Balance
														in Income			included in Other
																	Comprehen-sive
																	Income
		(in thousands)
	Recurring:
	Assets:
	Investment Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	65,285		$	—		$	(26,675	)	$	—		$	(825	)	$	2,791		$	—		$	40,576
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	205			—			—			(205		)	—			—			—			—
	Total available-for-sale	65,490			—			(26,675		)	(205		)	(825		)	2,791			—			40,576
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	928			—			—			(685		)	446			—			—			689
	Total trading	928			—			—			(685		)	446			—			—			689
	Total Investment Securities	66,418			—			(26,675		)	(890		)	(379		)	2,791			—			41,265
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage (2)	5,070,366			1,091,475			—			(922,908		)	14,520			10,995			(1,632,786		)	3,631,662
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	21,234			7,627			—			(808		)	—			(434		)	—			27,619
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,091,600			1,099,102			—			(923,716		)	14,520			10,561			(1,632,786		)	3,659,281
	USDA Securities:
	Available-for-sale	1,553,669			335,359			—			(209,400		)	—			51,594			—			1,731,222
	Trading (3)	58,344			—			—			(19,185		)	1,151			—			—			40,310
	Total USDA Securities	1,612,013			335,359			—			(228,585		)	1,151			51,594			—			1,771,532
	Total Assets at fair value	$	6,770,031		$	1,434,461		$	(26,675	)	$	(1,153,191	)	$	15,292		$	64,946		$	(1,632,786	)	$	5,472,078
	Liabilities:
	Financial derivatives	$	(235	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	235		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(235	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	235		$	—		$	—		$	—
	-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2014 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
	-2	Includes $1.6 billion of AgVantage Securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity on January 1, 2014 and $20.7 million of AgVantage securities purchased during 2014 transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity.
	-3	Includes unrealized gains of $1.8 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2014 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
	Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Ending
		Balance												Unrealized Gains/			Gains/(Losses)			Balance
														(Losses) included			included in Other
														in Income			Comprehen-sive
																	Income
		(in thousands)
	Recurring:
	Assets:
	Investment Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	63,159		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2,126		$	65,285
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities	—			233			—			(24		)	—			(4		)	205
	Total available-for-sale	63,159			233			—			(24		)	—			2,122			65,490
	Trading:
	Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	1,247			—			—			(774		)	455			—			928
	Total trading	1,247			—			—			(774		)	455			—			928
	Total Investment Securities	64,406			233			—			(798		)	455			2,122			66,418
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	Available-for-sale:
	AgVantage	4,739,577			1,273,500			—			(844,437		)	(18,230		)	(80,044		)	5,070,366
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	26,681			—			—			(5,214		)	—			(233		)	21,234
	Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	4,766,258			1,273,500			—			(849,651		)	(18,230		)	(80,277		)	5,091,600
	USDA Securities:
	Available-for-sale	1,486,595			361,894			—			(234,035		)	—			(60,785		)	1,553,669
	Trading (2)	104,188			—			—			(44,570		)	(1,274		)	—			58,344
	Total USDA Securities	1,590,783			361,894			—			(278,605		)	(1,274		)	(60,785		)	1,612,013
	Total Assets at fair value	$	6,421,447		$	1,635,627		$	—		$	(1,129,054	)	$	(19,049	)	$	(138,940	)	$	6,770,031
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives (3)	$	(691	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	456		$	—		$	(235	)
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(691	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	456		$	—		$	(235	)
-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2013 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-2	Includes unrealized losses of $0.5 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2013 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-3	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of December 31, 2013 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
Level 3 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value for the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Beginning			Purchases			Sales			Settlements			Realized and			Unrealized			Ending
	Balance												Unrealized Gains/			Gains/(Losses)			Balance
													(Losses) included			included in Other
													in Income			Comprehen-sive
																Income
	(in thousands)
Recurring:
Assets:
Investment Securities:
Available-for-sale:
Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans	$	60,213		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	2,946		$	63,159
Total available-for-sale	60,213			—			—			—			—			2,946			63,159
Trading:
Floating rate asset-backed securities (1)	1,796			—			—			(812		)	263			—			1,247
Total trading	1,796			—			—			(812		)	263			—			1,247
Total Investment Securities	62,009			—			—			(812		)	263			2,946			64,406
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
Available-for-sale:
AgVantage	4,253,673			984,406			—			(498,533		)	6,388			(6,357		)	4,739,577
Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities	35,599			5,327			(5,327		)	(8,907		)	—			(11		)	26,681
Total Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	4,289,272			989,733			(5,327		)	(507,440		)	6,388			(6,368		)	4,766,258
USDA Securities:
Available-for-sale	1,279,546			479,324			—			(256,685		)	—			(15,590		)	1,486,595
Trading (2)	212,359			—			—			(108,215		)	44			—			104,188
Total USDA Securities	1,491,905			479,324			—			(364,900		)	44			(15,590		)	1,590,783
Total Assets at fair value	$	5,843,186		$	1,469,057		$	(5,327	)	$	(873,152	)	$	6,695		$	(19,012	)	$	6,421,447
Liabilities:
Financial derivatives (3)	$	(1,335	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	644		$	—		$	(691	)
Total Liabilities at fair value	$	(1,335	)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	644		$	—		$	(691	)
-1	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2012 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-2	Includes unrealized gains of $0.3 million attributable to assets still held as of December 31, 2012 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
-3	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of December 31, 2012 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
Fair Value Inputs, Assets and Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]	The following tables present additional information about the significant unobservable inputs, such as discount rates and constant prepayment rates ("CPR"), used in the fair value measurements categorized in level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Table 13.3
			As of December 31, 2014
	Financial Instruments		Fair Value			Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input		Range (Weighted-Average)
			(in thousands)
	Assets:
	Investment securities:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans		$	40,576		Indicative bids	Range of broker quotes		82.0% - 94.0% (87.1%)
	Floating rate asset-backed securities		$	689		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		14.3% - 23.9% (19.1%)
							CPR		10%
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	AgVantage		$	3,631,662		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.7% - 2.7% (1.3%)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities		$	27,619		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.8% - 3.6% (1.9%)
							CPR		0% - 21% (9%)
	USDA Securities		$	1,771,532		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.1% - 5.3% (3.2%)
							CPR		0% - 20% (8%)
			As of December 31, 2013
	Financial Instruments		Fair Value			Valuation Technique	Unobservable Input		Range (Weighted-Average)
			(in thousands)
	Assets:
	Investment securities:
	Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans		$	65,285		Indicative bids	Range of broker quotes		82.0% - 92.0% (88.1%)
	Floating rate asset-backed securities		$	928		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		13.0% - 22.5% (17.7%)
							CPR		10%
	Floating rate Government/GSE guaranteed mortgage-backed securities		$	205		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.8% - 1.8% (1.8%)
							CPR		6%
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities:
	AgVantage		$	5,070,366		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.9% - 3.6% (1.8%)
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed USDA Securities		$	21,234		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.9% - 3.2% (1.9%)
							CPR		7% - 14% (11%)
	USDA Securities		$	1,612,013		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		1.2% - 5.3% (3.4%)
							CPR		0% - 23% (5%)
	Liabilities:
	Financial Derivatives:
	Basis swaps		$	235		Discounted cash flow	Discount rate		0.7% - 2.3% (1.3%)
							CPR		10% - 11% (10%)
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]	The following table sets forth the estimated fair values and carrying values for financial assets, liabilities, and guarantees and commitments as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:
	Table 13.4
		As of December 31, 2014						As of December 31, 2013
		Fair Value			Carrying			Fair Value			Carrying
					Amount						Amount
		(in thousands)
	Financial assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,363,387		$	1,363,387		$	749,313		$	749,313
	Investment securities	1,939,188			1,939,188			2,484,075			2,484,075
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	5,459,857			5,453,901			5,091,600			5,091,600
	USDA Securities	1,771,532			1,771,532			1,612,013			1,612,013
	Loans	3,547,424			3,520,075			3,138,932			3,193,248
	Financial derivatives	4,177			4,177			19,718			19,718
	Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:
	LTSPCs	29,095			27,807			33,807			27,244
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	14,200			13,979			18,470			16,660
	Financial liabilities:
	Notes payable:
	Due within one year	7,357,770			7,353,953			7,353,356			7,338,781
	Due after one year	5,556,570			5,471,186			4,977,942			5,001,169
	Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	423,085			424,214			257,512			261,760
	Financial derivatives	84,844			84,844			75,708			75,708
	Guarantee and commitment obligations:
	LTSPCs	28,130			26,843			32,856			26,293
	Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	11,303			11,082			15,185			13,374
	The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents is a reasonable estimate of their approximate fair value and is classified as level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. Investment securities primarily are valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. Farmer Mac internally models the fair value of its loan portfolio, including loans held for sale, loans held for investment and loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities, and USDA Securities by discounting the projected cash flows of these instruments at projected interest rates. The fair values are based on the present value of expected cash flows using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayment speeds, forward yield curves and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved. These fair value measurements do not take into consideration the fair value of the underlying property and are classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Financial derivatives primarily are valued using unadjusted counterparty valuations and are classified as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the guarantee fees receivable/obligation and debt securities of consolidated trusts are estimated based on the present value of expected future cash flows of the underlying mortgage assets using management's best estimate of certain key assumptions, which include prepayments speeds, forward yield curves, and discount rates commensurate with the risks involved and are classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Notes payable are valued by discounting the expected cash flows of these instruments using a yield curve derived from market prices observed for similar agency securities and are also classified as level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. Because the cash flows of Farmer Mac's financial instruments may be interest rate path dependent, estimated fair values and projected discount rates for level 3 financial instruments are derived using a Monte Carlo simulation model. Different market assumptions and estimation methodologies could significantly affect estimated fair value amounts.

Business_Segment_Reporting_Tab

Business Segment Reporting - (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	The following tables present core earnings for Farmer Mac's reportable operating segments and a reconciliation to consolidated net income for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
	Table 14.1
	Core Earnings by Business Segment
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
								Utilities									Adjustments
		(in thousands)
	Interest income (1)	$	78,934		$	54,955		$	27,879		$	67,019		$	17,637		$	(15,850	)		$	230,574
	Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(2,086		)	—			—			—			—			2,086				—
	Interest expense (2)	(45,025		)	(36,689		)	(17,138		)	(38,456		)	(3,830		)	(29,582		)		(170,720		)
	Net effective spread	31,823			18,266			10,741			28,563			13,807			(43,346		)		59,854
	Guarantee and commitment fees	15,107			134			—			12,032			—			(2,086		)		25,187
	Other income/(expense) (3)	762			63			9			—			(4,913		)	22,675				18,596
	Non-interest income/(loss)	15,869			197			9			12,032			(4,913		)	20,589				43,783
	Release of allowance for loan losses	961			—			—			—			—			—				961
	Release of reserve for losses	2,205			—			—			—			—			—				2,205
	Other non-interest expense	(15,180		)	(2,955		)	(3,130		)	(1,891		)	(10,541		)	—				(33,697		)
	Non-interest expense (4)	(12,975		)	(2,955		)	(3,130		)	(1,891		)	(10,541		)	—				(31,492		)
	Core earnings before income taxes	35,678			15,508			7,620			38,704			(1,647		)	(22,757		)	-5	73,106
	Income tax (expense)/benefit	(12,486		)	(5,430		)	(2,668		)	(13,548		)	23,347			7,961				(2,824		)
	Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	23,192			10,078			4,952			25,156			21,700			(14,796		)	-5	70,282
	Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(9,839		)	—				(9,839		)
	Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,192		)	—				(22,192		)
	Segment core earnings/(losses)	$	23,192		$	10,078		$	4,952		$	25,156		$	(10,331	)	$	(14,796	)	-5	$	38,251
	Total assets at carrying value	$	2,611,401		$	1,825,210		$	995,082		$	5,459,296		$	3,396,832		$	—			$	14,287,821
	Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	5,417,174			1,798,034			985,609			6,396,941						—				14,597,758
	-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts and interest income related to securities purchased under agreements to resell.
	-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements. Includes reconciling adjustments for interest expense related to securities sold, not yet purchased.
	-3	Includes interest income and interest expense related to securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold, not yet purchased, respectively; reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets; and a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
	-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
	-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.
	Core Earnings by Business Segment
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
								Utilities									Adjustments
		(in thousands)
	Interest income (1)	$	67,429		$	53,384		$	35,194		$	77,868		$	21,940		$	(20,417	)		$	235,398
	Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(964		)	—			—			—			—			964				—
	Interest expense (2)	(32,062		)	(35,656		)	(23,601		)	(53,613		)	(4,668		)	12,324				(137,276		)
	Net effective spread	34,403			17,728			11,593			24,255			17,272			(7,129		)		98,122
	Guarantee and commitment fees	14,944			132			—			12,846			—			(964		)		26,958
	Other income/(expense) (3)	2,244			791			—			—			1,622			34,156				38,813
	Non-interest income/(loss)	17,188			923			—			12,846			1,622			33,192				65,771
	Release of allowance for loan losses	481			—			—			—			—			—				481
	Provision for losses	(929		)	—			—			—			—			—				(929		)
	Other non-interest expense	(14,649		)	(2,904		)	(3,100		)	(1,774		)	(9,751		)	—				(32,178		)
	Non-interest expense (4)	(15,578		)	(2,904		)	(3,100		)	(1,774		)	(9,751		)	—				(33,107		)
	Core earnings before income taxes	36,494			15,747			8,493			35,327			9,143			26,063			-5	131,267
	Income tax (expense)/benefit	(12,773		)	(5,511		)	(2,973		)	(12,364		)	8,991			(9,122		)		(33,752		)
	Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	23,721			10,236			5,520			22,963			18,134			16,941			-5	97,515
	Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(3,495		)	—				(3,495		)
	Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,187		)	—				(22,187		)
	Segment core earnings/(losses)	$	23,721		$	10,236		$	5,520		$	22,963		$	(7,548	)	$	16,941		-5	$	71,833
	Total assets at carrying value	$	2,190,224		$	1,656,688		$	1,076,298		$	5,121,666		$	3,316,904		$	—			$	13,361,780
	Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	5,163,080			1,687,117			1,052,251			6,047,864						—				13,950,312
	-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
	-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
	-3	Includes reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets. Also includes a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
	-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
	-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.
	Core Earnings by Business Segment
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Farm & Ranch			USDA Guarantees			Rural			Institutional Credit			Corporate			Reconciling				Consolidated Net Income
								Utilities									Adjustments
	(in thousands)
Interest income (1)	$	70,590		$	56,815		$	35,566		$	88,801		$	24,729		$	(11,831	)		$	264,670
Interest income related to consolidated trusts owned by third parties reclassified to guarantee fee income	(1,659		)	—			—			—			—			1,659				—
Interest expense (2)	(36,390		)	(38,761		)	(23,301		)	(64,942		)	(4,891		)	25,595				(142,690		)
Net effective spread	32,541			18,054			12,265			23,859			19,838			15,423				121,980
Guarantee and commitment fees	14,292			163			—			12,167			—			(1,659		)		24,963
Other income/(expense) (3)	2,427			599			466			—			(2,113		)	(22,607		)		(21,228		)
Non-interest income/(loss)	16,719			762			466			12,167			(2,113		)	(24,266		)		3,735
Provision for loan losses	(3,691		)	—			—			—			—			—				(3,691		)
Release of losses	1,816			—			—			—			—			—				1,816
Other non-interest expense	(14,836		)	(2,773		)	(3,204		)	(1,834		)	(10,077		)	—				(32,724		)
Non-interest expense (4)	(13,020		)	(2,773		)	(3,204		)	(1,834		)	(10,077		)	—				(30,908		)
Core earnings before income taxes	32,549			16,043			9,527			34,192			7,648			(8,843		)	-5	91,116
Income tax (expense)/benefit	(11,392		)	(5,615		)	(3,334		)	(11,967		)	7,057			3,095				(22,156		)
Core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	21,157			10,428			6,193			22,225			14,705			(5,748		)	-5	68,960
Preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(2,879		)	—				(2,879		)
Non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	—			—			—			—			(22,187		)	—				(22,187		)
Segment core earnings	$	21,157		$	10,428		$	6,193		$	22,225		$	(10,361	)	$	(5,748	)	-5	$	43,894
Total assets at carrying value	$	1,736,391		$	1,641,030		$	1,080,045		$	4,772,509		$	3,392,226		$	—			$	12,622,201
Total on- and off-balance sheet program assets at principal balance	4,747,289			1,615,579			1,031,945			5,620,375						—				13,015,188
-1	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
-2	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
-3	Includes reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets. Also includes a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
-4	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
-5	Net adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio1

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]	Table 15.1
		2014 Quarter Ended
		Dec. 31			Sept. 30			30-Jun			Mar. 31
		(in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Interest income:
	Interest income	$	58,199		$	60,882		$	61,775		$	49,718
	Interest expense	44,606			48,886			42,502			34,726
	Net interest income	13,593			11,996			19,273			14,992
	Release of /(provision for) loan losses	462			(511		)	1,583			(573		)
	Net interest income after release of/(provision for) loan losses	14,055			11,485			20,856			14,419
	Non-interest income/(loss):
	Guarantee and commitment fees	6,094			6,172			6,403			6,518
	(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	(9,178		)	808			(5,698		)	(7,578		)
	Gains on trading assets	13,857			16,369			7,748			655
	(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	—			(396		)	143			15
	(Losses)/gains on sale of real estate owned	(28		)	—			168			(3		)
	Other income	920			502			200			92
	Non-interest income/(loss)	11,665			23,455			8,964			(301		)
	Non-interest expense	8,594			7,095			7,856			7,947
	Income before income taxes	17,126			27,845			21,964			6,171
	Income tax expense/(benefit)	2,769			7,564			(6,368		)	(1,141		)
	Net income	14,357			20,281			28,332			7,312
	Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling	(5,414		)	(5,412		)	(5,819		)	(5,547		)
	interest - preferred stock dividends
	Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	8,943			14,869			22,513			1,765
	Preferred stock dividends	(3,296		)	(3,283		)	(2,308		)	(952		)
	Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	5,647		$	11,586		$	20,205		$	813
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic earnings per common share	$	0.52		$	1.06		$	1.85		$	0.07
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.5		$	1.02		$	1.78		$	0.07
		2013 Quarter Ended
		Dec. 31			Sept. 30			30-Jun			Mar. 31
		(in thousands, except per share amounts)
	Interest income:
	Interest income	$	49,180		$	62,975		$	61,745		$	61,498
	Interest expense	35,777			34,787			33,584			33,128
	Net interest income	13,403			28,188			28,161			28,370
	(Provision for)/release of loan losses	(117		)	499			529			(430		)
	Net interest income after (provision for)/release of loan losses	13,286			28,687			28,690			27,940
	Non-interest income:
	Guarantee and commitment fees	6,768			6,819			6,759			6,612
	Gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	9,263			3,024			14,983			4,494
	(Losses)/gains on trading assets	(76		)	(626		)	(327		)	210
	(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	(960		)	—			3,071			2
	Gains on repurchase of debt	1,462			—			—			—
	Gains on sale of real estate owned	26			39			1,124			47
	Other income	539			565			873			1,080
	Non-interest income	17,022			9,821			26,483			12,445
	Non-interest expense	7,621			8,441			7,964			9,081
	Income before income taxes	22,687			30,067			47,209			31,304
	Income tax expense	3,774			8,226			13,036			8,716
	Net income	18,913			21,841			34,173			22,588
	Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling	(5,546		)	(5,547		)	(5,547		)	(5,547		)
	interest - preferred stock dividends
	Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	13,367			16,294			28,626			17,041
	Preferred stock dividends	(882		)	(881		)	(881		)	(851		)
	Net income attributable to common stockholders	$	12,485		$	15,413		$	27,745		$	16,190
	Earnings per common share:
	Basic earnings per common share	$	1.14		$	1.42		$	2.57		$	1.51
	Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.11		$	1.37		$	2.48		$	1.45

Organization_Details

Organization (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Product Information [Line Items]
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	$14,597,758,000	$13,950,312,000	$13,015,188,000
Farm & Ranch [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	5,417,174,000	5,163,080,000	4,747,289,000
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	1,798,034,000	1,687,117,000	1,615,579,000
Rural Utilities [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	985,609,000	1,052,251,000	1,031,945,000
Institutional Credit [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	6,396,941,000	6,047,864,000	5,620,375,000
Medium-term Notes [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
Notes Payable	7,900,000,000
Discount Notes [Member]
Product Information [Line Items]
Notes Payable	$4,900,000,000

Accounting_Policies_Principles

Accounting Policies - Principles of Consolidation (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
										subsidiary
Schedule of Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of Subsidiaries										3
Guarantee and commitment fees	$6,094	$6,172	$6,403	$6,518	$6,768	$6,819	$6,759	$6,612	$25,187	$26,958	$24,963
Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member]
Schedule of Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Guarantee and commitment fees									$10,100	$10,900	$10,300

Accounting_Policies_Cash_and_C

Accounting Policies - Cash and Cash Equivalents and Statements of Cash Flows (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest	$171,644,000		$114,609,000	$112,663,000
Income taxes	12,750,000		23,000,000	21,500,000
Non-cash activity:
Real estate owned acquired through loan liquidation	0		1,443,000	2,280,000
Loans acquired and securitized as Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	175,754,000		150,417,000	32,736,000
Purchases of securities - traded, not yet settled	70,178,000		0	0
Consolidation of Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities from off-balance sheet to loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and to debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	199,906,000		150,417,000	32,736,000
Deconsolidation of loans held for investment in consolidated trusts and debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties - transferred to off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities	0		0	460,261,000
Transfers of loans held for sale to loans held for investment	0		673,991,000	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Non-cash activity:
Transfers Out	1,632,786,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Non-cash activity:
Transfers Out	1,632,786,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Non-cash activity:
Transfers Out	$1,632,786,000	[1]	$0	$0
[1]	Includes $1.6 billion of AgVantage Securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity on January 1, 2014 and $20.7 million of AgVantage securities purchased during 2014 transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity.

Accounting_Policies_Transfers_

Accounting Policies - Transfers of Financial Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Federal Funds Sold and Securities Purchased under Agreements to Resell Pledged as Collateral	$0	$0
Security Owned and Sold, Not yet Purchased Fair Value, Security Sold, Not yet Purchased	$0	$0

Accounting_Policies_Investment

Accounting Policies - Investment Securities, Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 01, 2014
In Billions, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	$1.60

Accounting_Policies_Real_Estat

Accounting Policies - Real Estate Owned (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Capitalized Costs on Real Estate Owned	$0	$0

Accounting_Policies_Allowance_

Accounting Policies - Allowance for Losses (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Loans Receivable, Allowance, Calculation Period	3 years

Accounting_Policies_Earnings_P

Accounting Policies - Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income attributable to common stockholders (Basic)	$5,647	$11,586	$20,205	$813	$12,485	$15,413	$27,745	$16,190	$38,251	$71,833	$43,894
Net income attributable to common stockholders (Dilutive)									$38,251	$71,833	$43,894
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Stock options, SARs and restricted stock									447	393	540
Stock options, SARs and restricted stock (in usd per share)									($0.13)	($0.23)	($0.21)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic									10,920	10,816	10,479
Basic earnings per common share	$0.52	$1.06	$1.85	$0.07	$1.14	$1.42	$2.57	$1.51	$3.50	$6.64	$4.19
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted									11,367	11,209	11,019
Diluted earnings per common share	$0.50	$1.02	$1.78	$0.07	$1.11	$1.37	$2.48	$1.45	$3.37	$6.41	$3.98

Accounting_Policies_Earnings_P1

Accounting Policies - Earnings Per Share Anti-Dilutive (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stock Options and SARs [Members]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from earnings per share (shares)	109,143	33,730	317,253
Performance Shares [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from earnings per share (shares)	36,784	26,696	79,300

Accounting_Policies_Income_Tax

Accounting Policies - Income Taxes (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Income tax benefit recognition probability	50.00%

Accounting_Policies_StockBased

Accounting Policies - Stock-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$2.90	$3	$2.50

Accounting_Policies_Consolidat

Accounting Policies - Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	$692,478,000		$629,989,000
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	424,214,000		261,760,000
On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	692,478,000	[1]	629,989,000	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	424,214,000	[3]	261,760,000	[4]
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	1,620,064,000	[5],[6]	1,755,973,000	[6],[7]
Farm & Ranch [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other Liabilities	2,900,000		2,300,000
Farm & Ranch [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	421,355,000	[1]	259,509,000	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	424,214,000	[3]	261,760,000	[4]
Farm & Ranch [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	636,086,000	[5],[6]	765,751,000	[6],[7]
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-200,000		100,000
USDA Guarantees [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	0	[1]	0	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	0	[3]	0	[4]
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	13,978,000	[5],[6]	20,222,000	[6],[7]
Rural Utilities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium	3,700,000		16,200,000
Rural Utilities [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	271,123,000	[1]	370,480,000	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	0	[3]	0	[4]
Rural Utilities [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[5],[6]	0	[6],[7]
Institutional Credit [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	2,400,000		3,200,000
Institutional Credit [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	0	[1]	0	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	0	[3]	0	[4]
Institutional Credit [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	970,000,000	[5],[6]	970,000,000	[6],[7]
Corporate [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loans held for investment in consolidated trusts, at amortized cost	0	[1]	0	[2]
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	0	[3]	0	[4]
Corporate [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[5],[6]	0	[6],[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	60,035,000	[8]	54,482,000	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	57,832,000	[5]	51,088,000	[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | Farm & Ranch [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[8]	0	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[5]	0	[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | USDA Guarantees [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	27,620,000	[8]	21,234,000	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	27,832,000	[5]	21,088,000	[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | Rural Utilities [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[8]	0	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[5]	0	[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | Institutional Credit [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	32,415,000	[8]	33,248,000	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	30,000,000	[5]	30,000,000	[7]
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities: | Corporate [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[8]	0	[9]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[5]	0	[7]
Investment Securities [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	7,471,000		10,014,000
Investment Securities [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	409,657,000	[10]	533,688,000	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	412,690,000	[10],[5]	540,726,000	[11],[7]
Investment Securities [Member] | Farm & Ranch [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[10]	0	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[10],[5]	0	[11],[7]
Investment Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[10]	0	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[10],[5]	0	[11],[7]
Investment Securities [Member] | Rural Utilities [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[10]	0	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[10],[5]	0	[11],[7]
Investment Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	0	[10]	0	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	0	[10],[5]	0	[11],[7]
Investment Securities [Member] | Corporate [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net	409,657,000	[10]	533,688,000	[11]
Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount	$412,690,000	[10],[5]	$540,726,000	[11],[7]
[1]	Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $3.7 million.
[2]	Includes unamortized premiums related to the Rural Utilities line of business of $16.2 million.
[3]	Includes borrower remittances of $2.9 million. The borrower remittances have not been passed through to third party investors as of DecemberB 31, 2014.
[4]	Includes borrower remittances of $2.3 million, which have not been passed through to third party investors as of December 31, 2013.
[5]	Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
[6]	The amount under the Farm & Ranch line of business relates to unconsolidated trusts where Farmer Mac determined it was not the primary beneficiary due to shared power with an unrelated party.
[7]	Farmer Mac uses unpaid principal balance and the outstanding face amount of investment securities to represent maximum exposure to loss.
[8]	Includes $0.2 million of unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees line of business. Includes fair value adjustments related to the Institutional Credit line of business of $2.4 million.
[9]	Includes unamortized premiums and discounts and fair value adjustments related to the USDA Guarantees and Institutional Credit lines of business of $0.1 million and $3.2 million, respectively.
[10]	Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and government-sponsored enterprise ("GSE")-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.
[11]	Includes auction-rate certificates, asset-backed securities, and GSE-guaranteed mortgage-backed securities.

Related_Party_Transactions_Nar

Related Party Transactions - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
Number of Board of Directors	15
Common Class A, Voting [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of Board of Directors	5
Common Class B, Voting [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of Board of Directors	5

Related_Party_Transactions_Zio

Related Party Transactions - Zions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
Derivative, Notional Amount	$6,837,571	$6,691,851
Accrued interest payable (includes $5,145 and $2,823, respectively, related to consolidated trusts)	48,355	53,772
Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party's percent of Farmer Mac Total Outstanding Book of Business	5.90%	5.10%
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	8,400	7,000	6,500
Accrued interest payable (includes $5,145 and $2,823, respectively, related to consolidated trusts)		300
Zions First National Bank [Member] | Derivative [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	0	29,300
Zions First National Bank [Member] | Medium-term Notes [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	5,000	0	0
Zions First National Bank [Member] | Sale of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	147,234	120,409	5,327
Common Class A, Voting [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	31.20%
Farm & Ranch [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's Percent of Total Program Loans	22.30%	25.50%	29.60%
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's percent of total Program	14.60%	15.40%	12.80%
USDA Guarantee [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's percent of total Program	12.40%	3.60%	3.00%
Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member] | Farm & Ranch [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	155,808	210,088	168,826
USDA Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantee [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	42,637	13,153	14,415
On-balance sheet [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Zions First National Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	$50,237	$0	$0

Related_Party_Transactions_Nat

Related Party Transactions - National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	$903,465,000	$906,965,000	$549,523,000
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's percent of total Program	32.70%	29.40%	18.60%
Related Party's percent of Farmer Mac Total Outstanding Book of Business	18.70%	18.60%
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current	300,000	700,000	700,000
Revenue from Related Parties	3,200,000	4,100,000	4,400,000
Due from Related Parties	900,000	5,600,000
Interest Income, Related Party	12,700,000	23,700,000	28,000,000
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	3,400,000	3,352,000	3,000,000
Common Class A, Voting [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	7.90%
Rural Utilities [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's percent of total Program	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Rural Utilities [Member] | Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	75,500,000	86,965,000	166,117,000
Institutional Credit [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Related Party's percent of total Program	64.70%	64.40%	38.90%
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	820,775,000	820,000,000	383,406,000
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | CFC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	$7,190,000	$0	$0

Related_Party_Transactions_AgF

Related Party Transactions - AgFirst Farm Credit Bank (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party	$100,000	$500,000	$500,000
Revenue from Related Parties	600,000	700,000	800,000
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current	100,000	100,000
Common Class B, Voting [Member] | AgFirst Farm Credit Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	16.80%
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | AgFirst Farm Credit Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	19,700,000	8,100,000	16,800,000
Related Party Transactions, Outstanding Balance	112,800,000	131,800,000
Performance Guarantee [Member] | AgFirst Farm Credit Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transactions, Outstanding Balance	$28,900,000	$121,900,000

Related_Party_Transactions_Far

Related Party Transactions - Farm Credit Bank of Texas (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
Farm Credit Bank of Texas [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	$400,000	$500,000	$600,000
Common Class B, Voting [Member] | Farm Credit Bank of Texas [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	7.70%
Commitment fees [Member] | Farm Credit Bank of Texas [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	200,000	200,000	300,000
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | Farm Credit Bank of Texas [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transactions, Outstanding Balance	$51,500,000	$63,200,000

Related_Party_Transactions_Far1

Related Party Transactions - Farm Credit West (Details) (Farm Credit West [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2006	Dec. 31, 2003
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	$1,900,000
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	900,000
Guarantee Obligations [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	8,100,000
Related Party Transactions, Outstanding Balance	95,400,000
Commitment fees [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	300,000
Conversion of Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments to Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securirites [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party		129,000,000	722,300,000
Related Party Transactions, Outstanding Balance	$420,900,000

Related_Party_Transactions_Oth

Related Party Transactions - Other Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	5.00%
First Dakota Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party	$800,000	$600,000	$500,000
Farm & Ranch [Member] | Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Member] | First Dakota Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	35,100,000	61,600,000	37,100,000
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | First Dakota Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	0	1,000,000	0
Guarantee Obligations [Member] | AgGeorgia [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	20,200,000	27,500,000	51,500,000
USDA Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantee [Member] | Bath State Bank [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party	4,500,000	9,300,000	4,400,000
Commitment fees [Member] | AgGeorgia [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from Related Parties	100,000	100,000	100,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member} | CoBank, ACB [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes Receivable, Related Parties	70,000,000	70,000,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | CoBank, ACB [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes Receivable, Related Parties	$0	$78,500,000
Common Class B, Voting [Member] | CoBank, ACB [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Common Stock Ownership Percentage by a Related Party	32.60%

Investment_Securities_Schedule

Investment Securities - Schedule of Investment Securities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$6,837,571,000		$6,691,851,000			$6,837,571,000		$6,691,851,000
Investment Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	1,932,236,000		2,475,407,000			1,932,236,000		2,475,407,000
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	7,471,000		10,014,000			7,471,000		10,014,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,939,707,000		2,485,421,000			1,939,707,000		2,485,421,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	9,003,000		13,713,000			9,003,000		13,713,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-10,211,000		-15,987,000			-10,211,000		-15,987,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	1,938,499,000		2,483,147,000			1,938,499,000		2,483,147,000
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale investment securities	770,149,000		366,562,000		7,018,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains	600,000		3,100,000		28,000
Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading, at fair value	689,000		928,000			689,000		928,000
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Marketable Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	1,935,104,000		2,478,960,000			1,935,104,000		2,478,960,000
Marketable Securities, Amortized Cost	1,942,575,000		2,488,974,000			1,942,575,000		2,488,974,000
Marketable Securities, Unrealized Gains	9,003,000		13,713,000			9,003,000		13,713,000
Marketable Securities, Unrealized Losses	-12,390,000		-18,612,000			-12,390,000		-18,612,000
Marketable Securities	1,939,188,000		2,484,075,000			1,939,188,000		2,484,075,000
USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	1,731,222,000		1,553,669,000			1,731,222,000		1,553,669,000
Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading, at fair value	40,310,000		58,344,000			40,310,000		58,344,000
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Marketable Securities	1,771,532,000		1,612,013,000			1,771,532,000		1,612,013,000
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Investment Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	7,471,000		10,014,000			7,471,000		10,014,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	46,600,000		74,100,000			46,600,000		74,100,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	46,600,000		74,100,000			46,600,000		74,100,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0		0			0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-6,024,000		-8,815,000			-6,024,000		-8,815,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	40,576,000		65,285,000			40,576,000		65,285,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	100,730,000		166,185,000			100,730,000		166,185,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	100,656,000		165,968,000			100,656,000		165,968,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	283,000		195,000			283,000		195,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-37,000		-59,000			-37,000		-59,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	100,902,000		166,104,000			100,902,000		166,104,000
Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading Securities - Amount Outstanding	2,868,000		3,553,000			2,868,000		3,553,000
Trading Securities, Debt, Amortized Cost	2,868,000		3,553,000			2,868,000		3,553,000
Trading Securities, Unrealized Gains						0		0
Trading Securities, Unrealized Losses						-2,179,000		-2,625,000
Trading, at fair value	689,000		928,000			689,000		928,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	10,000,000		109,345,000			10,000,000		109,345,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	10,000,000		109,342,000			10,000,000		109,342,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	91,000		445,000			91,000		445,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	0		-18,000			0		-18,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	10,091,000		109,769,000			10,091,000		109,769,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	605,053,000		612,413,000			605,053,000		612,413,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	608,484,000		616,749,000			608,484,000		616,749,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	4,712,000		4,955,000			4,712,000		4,955,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-443,000		-435,000			-443,000		-435,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	612,753,000		621,269,000			612,753,000		621,269,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member}
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	70,000,000		70,000,000			70,000,000		70,000,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	70,000,000		70,000,000			70,000,000		70,000,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0		0			0		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-3,680,000		-6,615,000			-3,680,000		-6,615,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	66,320,000		63,385,000			66,320,000		63,385,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance			30,595,000					30,595,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis			30,679,000					30,679,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax			5,000					5,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses			-3,000					-3,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure			30,681,000					30,681,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	75,000,000					75,000,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	74,990,000					74,990,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0					0
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-11,000					-11,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	74,979,000					74,979,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	0		0			0		0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	0		0			0		0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-74,000		-217,000			-74,000		-217,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	0		-3,000			0		-3,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	3,431,000		4,336,000			3,431,000		4,336,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member}
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	0		0			0		0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			84,000					84,000
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-10,000					-10,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	30,000,000		55,000,000			30,000,000		55,000,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	29,990,000		55,048,000			29,990,000		55,048,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	35,000		97,000			35,000		97,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	0		-4,000			0		-4,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	30,025,000		55,141,000			30,025,000		55,141,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	853,000		1,173,000	[1]		853,000		1,173,000	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	4,395,000		5,139,000	[1]		4,395,000		5,139,000	[1]
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	3,807,000		3,518,000	[1]		3,807,000		3,518,000	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	0		0	[1]		0		0	[1]
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	8,202,000	[2]	8,657,000	[1]		8,202,000	[2]	8,657,000	[1]
Derivative, Notional Amount	152,400,000		152,400,000			152,400,000		152,400,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Preferred Stock [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance			78,500,000					78,500,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis			78,865,000					78,865,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax			4,296,000					4,296,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses			0					0
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure			83,161,000					83,161,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	18,806,000		523,691,000			18,806,000		523,691,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	18,936,000		523,985,000			18,936,000		523,985,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	3,000		107,000			3,000		107,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	0		-30,000			0		-30,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	18,939,000		524,062,000			18,939,000		524,062,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	975,194,000		754,405,000			975,194,000		754,405,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	975,656,000		755,546,000			975,656,000		755,546,000
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	72,000		95,000			72,000		95,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	-16,000		-8,000			-16,000		-8,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	975,712,000		755,633,000			975,712,000		755,633,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-10,000		48,000			-10,000		48,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	3,542,000		3,966,000	[1]		3,542,000		3,966,000	[1]
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | GSE Preferred Stock [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)			365,000					365,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	130,000		294,000			130,000		294,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	462,000		1,141,000			462,000		1,141,000
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Interest-Only-Strip [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	$7,300,000		$7,400,000			$7,300,000		$7,400,000
[1]	Fair value includes $7.4 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.
[2]	(1)Fair value includes $7.3 million of an interest-only security with a notional amount of $152.4 million.

Investment_Securities_Narrativ

Investment Securities - Narrative (Details) (Investment Securities [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Investment Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale investment securities	$770,149,000	$366,562,000	$7,018,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses	800,000	1,000,000	10,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains	$600,000	$3,100,000	$28,000

Investment_Securities_Unrealiz

Investment Securities - Unrealized Loss Position (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	position	position
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$495,501	$684,499
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	183,763	128,670
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	-228	-557
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	-9,983	-15,430
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Qualitative Disclosure [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	35	64
Investment Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Qualitative Disclosure [Abstract]
Available-for-sale securities in a loss position for more than 12 months, qualitative disclosure, percent of amortized cost	95.00%
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Greater than or Equal to One Year	15	7
Standard & Poor's, A- Rating [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Qualitative Disclosure [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	1	2
Standard & Poor's, BBB+ Rating [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Qualitative Disclosure [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions		1
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	40,576	65,285
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	-6,024	-8,815
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	19,388	50,129
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	-37	-59
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		19,982
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		-18
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	76,100	161,960
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	76,867	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	-164	-435
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	-279	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member}
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	66,320	63,385
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	-3,680	-6,615
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		10,058
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		-4
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		8,041
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		-3
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	74,980
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	-11
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value		316,273
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value		0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses		-30
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	325,033	118,056
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses	-16	-8
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses	$0	$0

Investment_Securities_Trading_

Investment Securities - Trading Securities (Details) (Floating Interest Rate [Member], Asset-backed Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Debt, Amortized Cost	$2,868	$3,553
Trading, at fair value	$689	$928
Trading Securities, Weighted-Average Yield	4.24%	4.25%

Investment_Securities_Debt_Mat

Investment Securities - Debt Maturities (Details) (Investment Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investment Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Amortized Cost	$1,014,587
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	156,022
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	261,556
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	507,542
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Fair Value	1,014,679
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Fair Value	156,719
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Fair Value	262,917
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Fair Value	504,184
Available-for-sale securities	$1,938,499	$2,483,147
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Weighted Average Yield, Single Maturity Date [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Weighted-Average Yield	0.30%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Weighted-Average Yield	0.87%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Weighted-Average Yield	0.85%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Weighted-Average Yield	1.00%
Available-for-sale Securities, Total Weighted-Average Yield	0.60%

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti2

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 01, 2014
Held-to-Maturity Securities [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value			$1,600,000
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	5,370,717	6,678,377
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5,373,437	6,682,569
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	48,529	67,473
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	31,463	104,773
Available-for-sale, at fair value	5,390,503	6,645,269
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Held-to-Maturity Securities [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized Cost before Other than Temporary Impairment	1,794,620
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	1,800,576
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	3,652,904	5,087,944
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,652,462	5,087,551
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	36,679	64,720
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	29,860	60,671
Available-for-sale, at fair value	3,659,281	5,091,600
USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, at fair value	1,731,222	1,553,669
Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading, at fair value	40,310	58,344
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	2,720	4,192
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-442	-393
Institutional Credit [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	2,400	3,200
Institutional Credit [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Held-to-Maturity Securities [Abstract]
Held-to-Maturity Unpaid Principal Balance	1,785,340
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized Cost before Other than Temporary Impairment	1,794,620
Held to Maturity; Unrealized Holding Gains	6,211
Held to Maturity - Unrealized Holding Loss	255
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	1,800,576
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	3,625,073	5,066,855
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,625,073	5,066,980
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	36,442	64,051
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	29,853	60,665
Available-for-sale, at fair value	3,631,662	5,070,366
Institutional Credit [Member] | Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	9,280
Institutional Credit [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	0	125
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-200	100
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	27,831	21,089
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	27,389	20,571
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	237	669
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	7	6
Available-for-sale, at fair value	27,619	21,234
USDA Guarantees [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available-for-Sale Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	1,717,813	1,590,433
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,720,975	1,595,018
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	11,850	2,753
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	1,603	44,102
Available-for-sale, at fair value	1,731,222	1,553,669
Trading Securities [Abstract]
Trading Securities Unpaid Principal Balance	38,412	55,373
Trading Securities, Debt, Amortized Cost	41,160	60,345
Trading Securities, Unrealized Gains	114	193
Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss	964	2,194
Trading, at fair value	40,310	58,344
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	-442	-518
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	3,162	4,585
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Schedule of Held-to-Maturity, Available-for-sale, and Trading Securities [Line Items]
Unamortized Premium/(Discount)	$2,748	$4,972

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti3

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - Unrealized Loss Position (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	position	position
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$495,501	$684,499
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	183,763	128,670
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	228	557
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	9,983	15,430
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	35	64
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	953,226	2,228,815
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,557,906	868,301
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	14,671	95,969
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	16,792	8,804
Institutional Credit [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	547
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	49,745
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	1
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	254
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	685,131	1,157,656
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	1,460,089	763,885
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	13,115	51,923
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	16,738	8,742
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions [Abstract]
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	23	27
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Greater than or Equal to One Year	15	13
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Qualitative Disclosure [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	2
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	3,720	343
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	7	6
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	0	0
USDA Guarantees [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	264,375	1,070,816
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	97,817	104,416
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	1,549	44,040
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	$54	$62

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti4

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities (Details) (Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Amortized Cost	$109,217
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	1,686,323
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	1,449,257
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	2,128,640
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	5,373,437	6,682,569
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Fair Value	106,395
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Fair Value	1,708,230
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Fair Value	1,455,096
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Fair Value	2,120,782
Available-for-sale, at fair value	$5,390,503	$6,645,269
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Weighted Average Yield, Single Maturity Date [Abstract]
Available-for-sale Securities, Due within one year, Weighted-Average Yield	0.93%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after one year through five years, Weighted-Average Yield	1.84%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after five years through ten years, Weighted-Average Yield	1.72%
Available-for-sale Securities, Due after ten years, Weighted-Average Yield	2.57%
Available-for-sale Securities, Total Weighted-Average Yield	2.07%

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti5

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 01, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Fair Value [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value	$1,600,000
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Net Carrying Amount		606,442
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Net Carrying Amount		1,178,000
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Net Carrying Amount		10,178
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized Cost before Other than Temporary Impairment		1,794,620
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Fair Value [Abstract]
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value		606,627
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value		1,183,351
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value		10,598
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value		$1,800,576
Held-to-Maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Weighted Average Yield, Single Maturity Date [Abstract]
Held-to-Maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Weighted-Average Yield		2.74%
Held-to-Maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Weighted-Average Yield		2.23%
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Weighted Average Yield		3.25%
Held-to-Maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Weighted-Average Yield		2.40%

Farmer_Mac_Guaranteed_Securiti6

Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Guaranteed Securities - Trading Securities (Details) (USDA Securities [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading, at fair value	$40,310	$58,344
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Debt, Amortized Cost	41,160	60,345
Trading, at fair value	$40,310	$58,344
Trading Securities, Weighted-Average Yield	5.60%	5.60%

Financial_Derivatives_Narrativ

Financial Derivatives - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative [Line Items]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	$84,844,000	$75,708,000
Derivative, Collateral [Abstract]
Collateral Pledged	46,627,000	11,320,000
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value	46,800,000	63,500,000
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	6,837,571,000	6,691,851,000
Excluding netting [Member] | Including accrued interest [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	99,400,000	92,000,000
Credit exposure to interest rate swap counterparties	6,100,000	25,100,000
Netting [Member] | Including accrued interest [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	93,400,000	74,800,000
Credit exposure to interest rate swap counterparties	400,000	3,300,000
Uncollateralized [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit exposure to interest rate swap counterparties	400,000	3,000,000
Cash [Member]
Derivative, Collateral [Abstract]
Collateral Received	0	0
Collateral Pledged	46,600,000	9,800,000
Securities Pledged as Collateral [Member]
Derivative, Collateral [Abstract]
Collateral Pledged	0	1,500,000
Exchange Cleared [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	4,000,000,000	2,300,000,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$6,800,000,000	$6,600,000,000

Financial_Derivatives_Schedule

Financial Derivatives - Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$6,837,571	$6,691,851
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	4,177	19,718
Financial derivatives, at fair value	84,844	75,708
Derivative, Collateral [Abstract]
Collateral Pledged	46,627	11,320
Derivative Asset	4,177	19,718
Derivative Liability	38,217	64,388
Cash [Member]
Derivative, Collateral [Abstract]
Obligation to Return Securities Received as Collateral	0	0
Collateral Pledged	46,600	9,800
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Swap, Pay Fixed Non-Callable [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	1,000,000	900,000
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	0	0
Financial derivatives, at fair value	31,718	28,989
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	2.47%	2.25%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	0.23%	0.24%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	3 years 11 months 23 days	3 years 3 months 0 days
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Swap, Pay Fixed Non-Callable [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	15,000	10,000
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	0	68
Financial derivatives, at fair value	289	0
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	2.43%	2.50%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	0.51%	0.48%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	6 years 2 months 23 days	6 years 11 months 12 days
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Derivative Credit Risk Valuation Adjustment, Derivative Assets	22	201
Derivative Credit Risk Valuation Adjustment, Derivative Liabilities	187	156
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap, Pay Fixed Non-Callable [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	490,183	806,596
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	537	7,570
Financial derivatives, at fair value	51,224	45,360
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	4.23%	4.63%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	0.23%	0.24%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	7 years 0 months 18 days	4 years 10 months 10 days
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap, Receive Fixed Non-Callable [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	3,829,355	4,324,663
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	3,414	11,836
Financial derivatives, at fair value	461	262
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	0.14%	0.27%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	0.27%	0.70%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	0 years 6 months 18 days	0 years 6 months 11 days
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap, Receive Fixed Callable [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	383,565	175,000
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	1	83
Financial derivatives, at fair value	877	934
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	0.12%	0.10%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	1.34%	0.65%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	3 years 5 months 19 days	3 years 3 months 18 days
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Basis Swap [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	1,105,000	404,288
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	247	276
Financial derivatives, at fair value	406	318
Derivative, Weighted-Average Pay Rate	0.11%	0.32%
Derivative, Weighted-Average Receive Rate	0.31%	0.29%
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity	2 years 5 months 1 day	1 year 6 months 7 days
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Forward Contracts [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	12,768	65,704
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	0	86
Financial derivatives, at fair value	53	0
Derivative, Weighted-Average Forward Price	$101	$98.91
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Future [Member]
Notional Disclosures [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	1,700	5,600
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Financial derivatives, at fair value	0	0
Financial derivatives, at fair value	$3	$1
Derivative, Weighted-Average Forward Price	$126.60	$123.02

Financial_Derivatives_Schedule1

Financial Derivatives - Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Impact on Results of Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	($21,646,000)	$31,764,000	($19,829,000)
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge	14,520,000	-18,230,000	6,388,000
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings	11,791,000	11,308,000	5,984,000
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-33,437,000	20,456,000	-25,813,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Components Included from Assessment of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Effectiveness	11,600,000	11,800,000	6,100,000
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net	-200,000	500,000	-100,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Instruments	-2,729,000	29,538,000	-404,000
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-31,111,000	21,355,000	-24,763,000
Forward Contracts [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-1,842,000	-1,002,000	-828,000
Future [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-484,000	103,000	-129,000
Credit Default Swap [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	$0	$0	($93,000)

Notes_Payable_Narrative_Detail

Notes Payable - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Discount Notes [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, original maturity period	1 year
Minimum [Member] | Medium-term Notes [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, original maturity period	0 years 6 months
Maximum [Member] | Medium-term Notes [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, original maturity period	15 years

Notes_Payable_Borrowings_and_C

Notes Payable - Borrowings and Callable Debt (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Due within one year	$7,353,953,000	$7,338,781,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities	1,673,137,000	2,277,811,000
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.32%	0.64%
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	1,569,961,000	1,411,140,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	1,219,192,000	1,290,629,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	682,224,000	528,322,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	872,576,000	675,968,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	1,127,233,000	1,095,110,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.56%	1.60%
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities	5,471,186,000	5,001,169,000
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	12,825,139,000	12,339,950,000
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.85%	1.03%
Due after one year	5,471,186,000	5,001,169,000
Discount Notes [Member]
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Due within one year	4,925,828,000	4,880,971,000
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.11%	0.12%
Short-term Debt, Average Outstanding Amount	4,059,708,000	4,365,045,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period	0.15%	0.18%
Short-term Debt, Maximum Month-end Outstanding Amount	4,900,000,000	4,900,000,000
Medium-term Notes [Member]
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Due within one year	754,988,000	179,999,000
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.17%	0.17%
Short-term Debt, Average Outstanding Amount	532,621,000	167,617,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period	0.15%	0.16%
Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	78,960,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	507,893,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	149,944,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	402,393,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	279,157,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.11%
Due after one year	$1,418,347,000
Long-term Debt [Member]
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.98%	1.79%
Due year two [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.16%	1.14%
Due year two [Member] | Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.57%
Due year three [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.90%	1.33%
Due year three [Member] | Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.48%
Due year four [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.28%	1.23%
Due year four [Member] | Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.92%
Due year five [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.42%	1.33%
Due year five [Member] | Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.02%
Due after five years [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	3.09%	2.85%
Due after five years [Member] | Call Option [Member]
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	2.64%

Notes_Payable_Earliest_Interes

Notes Payable - Earliest Interest Rate Reset Date of Borrowings Outstanding (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Due within one year	$7,353,953,000	$7,338,781,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	1,569,961,000	1,411,140,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	1,219,192,000	1,290,629,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	682,224,000	528,322,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	872,576,000	675,968,000
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	1,127,233,000	1,095,110,000
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	12,825,139,000	12,339,950,000
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.32%	0.64%
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.56%	1.60%
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.85%	1.03%
Meduim Term Notes Called During the Period	500,000,000	400,000,000
Due within one year [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Due within one year	8,887,288,000
Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.44%
Due year two [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two	1,391,014,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.26%
Due year three [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three	711,299,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.19%
Due year four [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four	532,279,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.38%
Due year five [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five	470,183,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	1.76%
Due after five years [Member]
Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Borrowings [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five	$833,076,000
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	3.29%

Notes_Payable_Authority_to_Bor

Notes Payable - Authority to Borrow from U.S. Treasury (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Billions, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$1.50

Notes_Payable_Gains_on_Repurch

Notes Payable - Gains on Repurchase of Outstanding Debt (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount						$29,100,000
Gains on repurchase of debt	$1,462,000	$0	$0	$0	$0	$1,462,000	$0

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses2

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Loan (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans held for investment, at amortized cost	$2,833,461		$2,570,125
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate	5,864		6,866
Total loans, net of allowance	3,520,075		3,193,248
Unsecuritized [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	2,837,080	[1]	2,573,968	[1]
Unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments	-3,619		-3,843
Loans held for investment, at amortized cost	2,833,461		2,570,125
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate	5,324		6,587
Total loans, net of allowance	2,828,137		2,563,538
Unsecuritized [Member] | Farm & Ranch [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	2,118,867		1,875,958
Unsecuritized [Member] | Rural Utilities [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	718,213		698,010
In Consolidated Trusts
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	688,751	[1]	613,750	[1]
Unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments	3,727		16,239
Loans held for investment, at amortized cost	692,478		629,989
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate	540		279
Total loans, net of allowance	691,938		629,710
In Consolidated Trusts | Farm & Ranch [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	421,355		259,509
In Consolidated Trusts | Rural Utilities [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	267,396		354,241
Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	3,525,831	[1]	3,187,718	[1]
Unamortized premiums, discounts and other cost basis adjustments	108		12,396
Loans held for investment, at amortized cost	3,525,939		3,200,114
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Real Estate	5,864		6,866
Total loans, net of allowance	3,520,075		3,193,248
Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member] | Farm & Ranch [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	2,540,222		2,135,467
Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member] | Rural Utilities [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Lease Receivable Unpaid Principal Balance	$985,609		$1,052,251
[1]	Unpaid principal balance is the basis of presentation in disclosures of outstanding balances for Farmer Mac's lines of business.

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses3

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Allowance for Credit Losses Roll Forward (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Allowance for Loan Losses				$6,866,000					$6,866,000
Beginning Balance - Reserve for Losses				6,468,000					6,468,000
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				13,334,000				16,890,000	13,334,000	16,890,000	17,516,000
Release of/(provision for) loan losses	462,000	-511,000	1,583,000	-573,000	-117,000	499,000	529,000	-430,000	961,000	481,000	-3,691,000
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									-2,205,000	929,000	-1,816,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									-3,166,000	448,000	1,875,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									86,000	4,004,000	2,501,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									45,000
Ending Balance - Allowance for Loan Losses	5,864,000				6,866,000				5,864,000	6,866,000
Ending Balance - Reserve for Losses	4,263,000				6,468,000				4,263,000	6,468,000
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	10,127,000				13,334,000				10,127,000	13,334,000	16,890,000
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Adjustments, Net											3,200,000
Crops [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				2,124,000				2,589,000	2,124,000	2,589,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									395,000	-420,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									0	45,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	2,519,000				2,124,000				2,519,000	2,124,000
Permanent Plantings [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				2,186,000				2,316,000	2,186,000	2,316,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									-72,000	-130,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									0	0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									45,000
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	2,159,000				2,186,000				2,159,000	2,186,000
Livestock [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				1,271,000				1,534,000	1,271,000	1,534,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									209,000	-263,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									57,000	0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	1,423,000				1,271,000				1,423,000	1,271,000
Part-Time Farm [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				454,000				784,000	454,000	784,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									42,000	4,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									29,000	334,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	467,000				454,000				467,000	454,000
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				7,292,000				9,661,000	7,292,000	9,661,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									-3,740,000	1,256,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									0	3,625,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	3,552,000				7,292,000				3,552,000	7,292,000
Other Commodity [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Total Allowance for Losses				7,000				6,000	7,000	6,000
Total (release of)/provision for losses									0	1,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									0	0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Total Allowance for Losses	7,000				7,000				7,000	7,000
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Allowance for Loan Losses				6,866,000				11,351,000	6,866,000	11,351,000	10,161,000
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									961,000	481,000	-3,691,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									86,000	4,004,000	2,501,000
Ending Balance - Allowance for Loan Losses	5,864,000				6,866,000				5,864,000	6,866,000	11,351,000
Reserve for Off-balance Sheet Activities [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance - Reserve for Losses				6,468,000				5,539,000	6,468,000	5,539,000	7,355,000
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									-2,205,000	929,000	-1,816,000
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs									0	0	0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery									0
Ending Balance - Reserve for Losses	4,263,000				6,468,000				4,263,000	6,468,000	5,539,000
Eligible Loans [Member] | Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs										$3,600,000

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses4

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Allowance for Losses by Impairment Method and Commodity (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	$5,334,737		$5,068,039
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	82,437		95,041
Financing Receivable, Gross	5,417,174	[1],[2]	5,163,080	[1],[2]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	7,490		10,638
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	2,637		2,696
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	10,127		13,334		16,890	17,516
Crops [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	2,926,501		2,643,748
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	14,765		23,109
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,941,266	[1]	2,666,857	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	2,122		1,718
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	397		406
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	2,519		2,124		2,589
Permanent Plantings [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	881,052		862,969
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	39,143		44,855
Financing Receivable, Gross	920,195	[1]	907,824	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	644		484
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	1,515		1,702
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	2,159		2,186		2,316
Livestock [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,245,335		1,232,062
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	15,283		14,043
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,260,618	[1]	1,246,105	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,062		1,078
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	361		193
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	1,423		1,271		1,534
Part-Time Farm [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	160,708		149,824
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	13,246		12,919
Financing Receivable, Gross	173,954	[1]	162,743	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	103		62
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	364		392
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	467		454		784
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	114,360		170,918
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Gross	114,360	[1]	170,918	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,552		7,292
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	3,552		7,292		9,661
Other Commodity [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	6,781		8,518
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		115
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,781	[1]	8,633	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	7		4
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		3
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	7		7		6
On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	2,473,780		2,051,498
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	66,442		83,969
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,540,222	[1]	2,135,467	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,531		4,392
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	2,333		2,474
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	5,864		6,866
On-balance sheet [Member] | Crops [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,621,360		1,363,861
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	12,307		21,147
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,633,667	[1]	1,385,008	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,824		1,321
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	283		362
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	2,107		1,683
On-balance sheet [Member] | Permanent Plantings [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	359,517		295,037
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	35,904		41,441
Financing Receivable, Gross	395,421	[1]	336,478	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	495		325
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	1,410		1,641
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	1,905		1,966
On-balance sheet [Member] | Livestock [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	406,049		319,665
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	6,571		10,844
Financing Receivable, Gross	412,620	[1]	330,509	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	658		436
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	328		140
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	986		576
On-balance sheet [Member] | Part-Time Farm [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	57,851		39,940
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	11,660		10,422
Financing Receivable, Gross	69,511	[1]	50,362	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	51		20
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	312		331
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	363		351
On-balance sheet [Member] | Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	29,003		32,636
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Gross	29,003	[1]	32,636	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	503		2,290
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	503		2,290
On-balance sheet [Member] | Other Commodity [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	0		359
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		115
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1]	474	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	0		0
Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	2,860,957		3,016,541
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	15,995		11,072
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,876,952	[1]	3,027,613	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,959		6,246
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	304		222
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	4,263		6,468
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Crops [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,305,141		1,279,887
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	2,458		1,962
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,307,599	[1]	1,281,849	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	298		397
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	114		44
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	412		441
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Permanent Plantings [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	521,535		567,932
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	3,239		3,414
Financing Receivable, Gross	524,774	[1]	571,346	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	149		159
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	105		61
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	254		220
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Livestock [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	839,286		912,397
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	8,712		3,199
Financing Receivable, Gross	847,998	[1]	915,596	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	404		642
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	33		53
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	437		695
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Part-Time Farm [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	102,857		109,884
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	1,586		2,497
Financing Receivable, Gross	104,443	[1]	112,381	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	52		42
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	52		61
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	104		103
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	85,357		138,282
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Gross	85,357	[1]	138,282	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,049		5,002
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	3,049		5,002
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Other Commodity [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	6,781		8,159
Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		0
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,781	[1]	8,159	[1]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	7		4
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	0		3
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses	$7		$7
[1]	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[2]	Geographic regions: Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY); Southwest (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT); Mid-North (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, NE, ND, SD, WI); Mid-South (AR, KS, LA, MO, OK, TX); Northeast (CT, DE, KY, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV); Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN).

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses5

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Impaired Financing Receivables (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	$22,291		$24,951
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	61,772	[1]	72,116	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	84,063		97,067
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	21,840		24,733
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	60,597		70,308
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	82,437		95,041
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	2,637		2,696
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	30,152	[3]	37,228	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	90,009		101,732
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	1,533		3,768
Crops [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	4,877		6,956
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	10,753	[1]	16,697	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	15,630		23,653
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	4,723		6,825
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	10,042		16,284
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	14,765		23,109
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	397		406
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	5,168	[3]	10,812	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	20,625		28,387
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	373		793
Permanent Plantings [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	5,837		9,880
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	33,690	[1]	36,146	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	39,527		46,026
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	5,750		9,877
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	33,393		34,978
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	39,143		44,855
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	1,515		1,702
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	14,413	[3]	15,237	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	43,221		42,838
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	474		2,254
Livestock [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	9,576		6,671
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	5,979	[1]	7,600	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	15,555		14,271
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	9,386		6,588
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	5,897		7,455
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	15,283		14,043
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	361		193
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	4,438	[3]	5,344	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	13,543		16,117
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	327		277
Part-Time Farm [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	2,001		1,444
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	11,350	[1]	11,554	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	13,351		12,998
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	1,981		1,443
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	11,265		11,476
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	13,246		12,919
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	364		392
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	6,133	[3]	5,835	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	12,596		13,042
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	359		444
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	0	[1]	0	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	0		0
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	0	[3]	0	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	0		867
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	0		0
Other Commodity [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Recorded Investment	0	[1]	119	[2]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	0		119
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		0
Impaired Financing Receivable, with Related Allowance, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		115
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance	0		115
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	0		3
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	0	[3]	0	[4]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	24		481
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method	0		0
Collateral Dependent Not Individually Analyzed [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment	54,400		65,100
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance	1,200		1,300
Impaired Financing Receivable, Impairment analysis performed percent	65.00%	[1]	67.00%
Less than 90 days past due [Member]
Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	$11,700	[3]	$9,600	[4]
[1]	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $54.4 million (65 percent) of impaired loans as of DecemberB 31, 2014, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.2 million.
[2]	Impairment analysis was performed in the aggregate in consideration of similar risk characteristics of the assets and historical statistics on $65.1 million (67 percent) of impaired loans as of DecemberB 31, 2013, which resulted in a specific reserve of $1.3 million.
[3]	Includes $11.7 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.
[4]	Includes $9.6 million of loans that are less than 90 days delinquent but which have not met Farmer Mac's performance criteria for returning to accrual status.

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses6

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Troubled Debt Restructurings (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	defaulted_loan	defaulted_loan
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Modifications, Pre-Modification Recorded Investment	$5,300,000	$1,100,000	$2,600,000
Financing Receivable, Modifications, Post-Modification Recorded Investment	6,000,000	1,100,000	2,800,000
Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Number of Contracts	0	0
Financing Receivable, Modifications, Subsequent Default, Recorded Investment	0	0
Total (release of)/provision for losses	-3,166,000	448,000	1,875,000
Loans Collateralized by Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]
Total (release of)/provision for losses	$0	$100,000	($300,000)

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses7

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	defaulted_loan	defaulted_loan	defaulted_loan
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities Acquired During Period [Line Items]
Certain Loans Acquired In Transfer Not Accounted For As Debt Securities, Number Defaulted	2	11	15
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Balance During Period	$705	$6,704	$17,024
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Acquired During Period, Contractually Required Payments Receivable at Acquisition, During the Period	705	6,907	17,432
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Provision for Loan Losses	69	477	4,774
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Allowance for Loan Losses, Decreases	233	949	997
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Outstanding Balance	24,921	32,838	41,737
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Carrying Amount, Net	22,149	29,613	33,798
Payments to Acquire Other Loans and Leases Held-for-investment	705	6,704	17,024
Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments [Member]
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities Acquired During Period [Line Items]
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Balance During Period	705	37	8,091
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities Acquired During Period [Line Items]
Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Balance During Period	$0	$6,667	$8,933

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses8

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Certain Loans Acquired Delinquencies and Net Credit Losses (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	$18,917,000	[1]	$28,296,000	[2]
Net credit losses (recoveries)	-6,000		2,975,000		1,673,000
Certain Loans Acquired In Transfer Not Accounted For As Debt Securities, Subject To Be Purchased	1,800,000	[3]	1,200,000	[3]
On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	18,427,000	[1]	27,580,000	[2]
Net credit losses (recoveries)	-6,000		2,975,000		1,673,000
Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	490,000	[1]	716,000	[2]
Net credit losses (recoveries)	$0		$0		$0
[1]	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[2]	(1)Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[3]	Includes loans and loans underlying off-balance sheet Farm & Ranch Guaranteed Securities and LTSPCs that are 90 days or more past due, in foreclosure, restructured after delinquency, or in bankruptcy, excluding loans performing under either their original loan terms or a court-approved bankruptcy plan.

Loans_and_Allowance_for_Losses9

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Financing Receivables Credit Quality Indicators (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	$5,417,174	[1],[2]	$5,163,080	[1],[2]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	18,917	[1]	28,296	[3]
Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	5,172,691	[1]	4,845,302	[1]
Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	111,888	[1],[4]	122,830	[1],[4]
Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	132,595	[1],[5]	194,948	[1],[5]
On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,540,222	[1]	2,135,467	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	18,427	[1]	27,580	[3]
On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,419,285	[1]	1,988,945	[1]
On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	54,495	[1],[4]	47,171	[1],[4]
On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	66,442	[1],[5]	99,351	[1],[5]
Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,876,952	[1]	3,027,613	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	490	[1]	716	[3]
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,753,406	[1]	2,856,357	[1]
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	57,393	[1],[4]	75,659	[1],[4]
Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	66,153	[1],[5]	95,597	[1],[5]
Crops [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,941,266	[1]	2,666,857	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	4,175	[1]	8,256	[3]
Crops [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,887,319	[1]	2,600,039	[1]
Crops [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	30,417	[1],[4]	26,633	[1],[4]
Crops [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	23,530	[1],[5]	40,185	[1],[5]
Crops [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,633,667	[1]	1,385,008	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	4,175	[1]	8,036	[3]
Crops [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,604,546	[1]	1,348,205	[1]
Crops [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	16,814	[1],[4]	15,656	[1],[4]
Crops [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	12,307	[1],[5]	21,147	[1],[5]
Crops [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,307,599	[1]	1,281,849	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	220	[3]
Crops [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,282,773	[1]	1,251,834	[1]
Crops [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	13,603	[1],[4]	10,977	[1],[4]
Crops [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	11,223	[1],[5]	19,038	[1],[5]
Permanent Plantings [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	920,195	[1]	907,824	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	6,869	[1]	11,841	[3]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	856,901	[1]	838,318	[1]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	18,180	[1],[4]	20,594	[1],[4]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	45,114	[1],[5]	48,912	[1],[5]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	395,421	[1]	336,478	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	6,869	[1]	11,841	[3]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	353,487	[1]	290,064	[1]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,030	[1],[4]	4,973	[1],[4]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	35,904	[1],[5]	41,441	[1],[5]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	524,774	[1]	571,346	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	0	[3]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	503,414	[1]	548,254	[1]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	12,150	[1],[4]	15,621	[1],[4]
Permanent Plantings [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	9,210	[1],[5]	7,471	[1],[5]
Livestock [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,260,618	[1]	1,246,105	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	5,045	[1]	4,462	[3]
Livestock [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,174,057	[1]	1,144,438	[1]
Livestock [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	61,320	[1],[4]	55,912	[1],[4]
Livestock [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	25,241	[1],[5]	45,755	[1],[5]
Livestock [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	412,620	[1]	330,509	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	4,555	[1]	4,462	[3]
Livestock [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	375,010	[1]	300,308	[1]
Livestock [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	31,039	[1],[4]	19,357	[1],[4]
Livestock [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,571	[1],[5]	10,844	[1],[5]
Livestock [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	847,998	[1]	915,596	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	490	[1]	0	[3]
Livestock [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	799,047	[1]	844,130	[1]
Livestock [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	30,281	[1],[4]	36,555	[1],[4]
Livestock [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	18,670	[1],[5]	34,911	[1],[5]
Part-Time Farm [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	173,954	[1]	162,743	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	2,828	[1]	3,618	[3]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	154,931	[1]	144,611	[1]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,963	[1],[4]	1,835	[1],[4]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	17,060	[1],[5]	16,297	[1],[5]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	69,511	[1]	50,362	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	2,828	[1]	3,122	[3]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	57,239	[1]	39,022	[1]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	612	[1],[4]	918	[1],[4]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	11,660	[1],[5]	10,422	[1],[5]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	104,443	[1]	112,381	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	496	[3]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	97,692	[1]	105,589	[1]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,351	[1],[4]	917	[1],[4]
Part-Time Farm [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	5,400	[1],[5]	5,875	[1],[5]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	114,360	[1]	170,918	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	0	[3]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	93,366	[1]	110,059	[1]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[4]	17,278	[1],[4]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	20,994	[1],[5]	43,581	[1],[5]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	29,003	[1]	32,636	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	0	[3]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	29,003	[1]	10,987	[1]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[4]	6,267	[1],[4]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[5]	15,382	[1],[5]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	85,357	[1]	138,282	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	0	[3]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	64,363	[1]	99,072	[1]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[4]	11,011	[1],[4]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	20,994	[1],[5]	28,199	[1],[5]
Other Commodity [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,781	[1]	8,633	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	119	[3]
Other Commodity [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,117	[1]	7,837	[1]
Other Commodity [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	8	[1],[4]	578	[1],[4]
Other Commodity [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	656	[1],[5]	218	[1],[5]
Other Commodity [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1]	474	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	119	[3]
Other Commodity [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1]	359	[1]
Other Commodity [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[4]	0	[1],[4]
Other Commodity [Member] | On-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	0	[1],[5]	115	[1],[5]
Other Commodity [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,781	[1]	8,159	[1]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	0	[1]	0	[3]
Other Commodity [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	6,117	[1]	7,478	[1]
Other Commodity [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	8	[1],[4]	578	[1],[4]
Other Commodity [Member] | Off-balance sheet [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	$656	[1],[5]	$103	[1],[5]
[1]	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[2]	Geographic regions: Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY); Southwest (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT); Mid-North (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, NE, ND, SD, WI); Mid-South (AR, KS, LA, MO, OK, TX); Northeast (CT, DE, KY, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV); Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN).
[3]	(1)Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[4]	Assets in the Special mention category generally have potential weaknesses due to performance issues but are currently considered to be adequately secured.
[5]	Substandard assets have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses and there is a distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained if deficiencies are not corrected.

Recovered_Sheet1

Loans and Allowance for Losses and Concentrations of Credit Risk - Concentrations of Credit Risk (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	$5,417,174	[1],[2]	$5,163,080	[1],[2]
Northwest [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	573,135	[2]	524,034	[2]
Southwest [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,753,606	[2]	1,752,109	[2]
Mid-North [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,873,041	[2]	1,702,668	[2]
Mid-South [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	627,615	[2]	601,359	[2]
Northeast [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	214,402	[2]	231,731	[2]
Southeast [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	375,375	[2]	351,179	[2]
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range One [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,503,076		1,375,758
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	0.00%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	40.00%
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range Two [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,191,804		1,099,033
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	40.01%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	50.00%
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range Three [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,491,502		1,431,562
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	50.01%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	60.00%
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range Four [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,091,759		1,113,427
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	60.01%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	70.00%
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range Five [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	115,645		110,828
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	70.01%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	80.00%
Financing Receivables, Original Loan-To-Value Ratio, Range Six [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	23,388		32,472
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Lower Range Limit	80.01%
Financing Receivables, Loan-To-Value Ratio Range, Upper Range Limit	90.00%
Crops [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	2,941,266	[1]	2,666,857	[1]
Permanent Plantings [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	920,195	[1]	907,824	[1]
Livestock [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	1,260,618	[1]	1,246,105	[1]
Part-Time Farm [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	173,954	[1]	162,743	[1]
Agriculture Storage and Processing [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	114,360	[1]	170,918	[1]
Other Commodity [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Financing Receivable, Gross	$6,781	[1]	$8,633	[1]
[1]	Amounts represent unpaid principal balance of risk-rated loans, which is the basis Farmer Mac uses to analyze its portfolio, and recorded investment of past due loans.
[2]	Geographic regions: Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY); Southwest (AZ, CA, CO, HI, NM, NV, UT); Mid-North (IA, IL, IN, MI, MN, NE, ND, SD, WI); Mid-South (AR, KS, LA, MO, OK, TX); Northeast (CT, DE, KY, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, VA, VT, WV); Southeast (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN).

Equity_Narrative_Details

Equity - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
													class_of_stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of Classes of Common Stock													3
Common stock dividend, per share, cash paid	$0.14	$0.14	$0.14	$0.14	$0.12	$0.12	$0.12	$0.12	$0.10	$0.10	$0.10	$0.10	$0.56	$0.48	$0.40
Common Class A, Voting [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common Stock, Maximum Ownership Percentage by a Beneficial Owner	33.00%												33.00%
Series A Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares issued	2,400,000				2,400,000								2,400,000	2,400,000
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	2,400,000				2,400,000								2,400,000	2,400,000
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage													5.88%
Payments of Stock Issuance Costs														$1.70
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$25				$25								$25	$25
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$25												$25
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares issued	3,000,000				0								3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	3,000,000				0								3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage													6.88%
Payments of Stock Issuance Costs													1.9
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$25				$0								$25	$0
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$25												$25
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares issued	3,000,000				0								3,000,000	0
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	3,000,000				0								3,000,000	0
Payments of Stock Issuance Costs													$1.60
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$25				$0								$25	$0
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$25												$25
Retired Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share	$1,000												$1,000
Up to but excluding July 17, 2024 [Member] | Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage													6.00%
July 17, 2024, thereafter [Member] | Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividend Variable Rate, Percentage													3.26%

Equity_Noncontrolling_interest

Equity - Non-controlling interest (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 25, 2010	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction	$250,000,000
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share		1,000
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | Private Placement [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction	250,000
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | March 30, 2015 To But Excluding March 30, 2020 [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage		10.88%
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | Issuance To But Excluding March 30, 2015 [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage		8.88%
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | March 30, 2020 and Thereafter [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividend Variable Rate, Percentage		8.21%
Non-controlling Interest - Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests		6,000,000	$0	$0

Equity_Equitybased_Incentive_C

Equity - Equity-based Incentive Compensation Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit	$29.37	$30.20	$21.69
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit	$35.60	$37.17	$32.85
Officers and certain employees [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Terms of Award	P10Y0M0D

Equity_Schedule_of_Stock_optio

Equity - Schedule of Stock options, SARs and Non-Vested Restricted Stock Outstanding (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Equity [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	718,143	664,245	788,748	1,327,066
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$25.12	$23.78	$20.89	$18.72
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures	87,600	94,017	157,983
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$34.92	$31.24	$22.32
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	23,035	208,877	427,348
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$20.83	$16.24	$13.18
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period	10,667	9,643	268,953
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$31.16	$23.02	$23.29
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	548,180	483,216	574,439
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$23.12	$22.83	$21.76
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	103,772	98,285	91,311	196,076
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$31.24	$27.66	$18.75	$12.15
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period	57,590	73,985	72,637
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$33.88	$30.27	$21.92
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period	8,360	1,000	59,624
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$21.72	$31.42	$16.98
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures	43,743	66,011	117,778
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$28.48	$18.21	$10.62

Equity_Narrative_Related_to_Sh

Equity - Narrative Related to Share Based Compensation Award (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	$200,000	$1,900,000	$2,900,000
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options	600,000	2,100,000	3,400,000
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation and Exercise of Stock Options	-41,000	1,100,000	1,400,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other	604	842	649
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Other	$20,000	$26,000	$15,000
Number of Board of Directors	15
Common Class C, Non-Voting [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of Board of Directors	5	7	4

Equity_Schedule_of_Share_Based

Equity - Schedule of Share Based Compensation Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	718,143	664,245	788,748	1,327,066
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	548,180	483,216	574,439
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	708,941
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	9 years 2 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	103,772	98,285	91,311	196,076
$5.00 to $9.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	32,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	32,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	32,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 4 months 24 days
$10.00 to $14.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	66,665
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	66,665
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	66,665
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 4 months 24 days
$15.00 - $19.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	67,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	67,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 years 4 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	67,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 years 4 months 24 days
$20.00 to $24.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	127,703
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 10 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	101,036
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 3 months 18 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	125,295
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 10 months 24 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	12,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms	0 years 2 months 12 days
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based payment award,Other than Options,Vested and Expected to Vest,Outstanding,Weighted Average Contractual Life Term	0 years 2 months 12 days
$25.00 to $29.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	230,152
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	2 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	228,152
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	2 years 6 months 0 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	230,072
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	2 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	0
$30.00 to $34.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	136,623
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	7 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	53,327
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	6 years 2 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	132,349
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	7 years 7 months 6 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	90,223
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms	1 year 8 months 12 days
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based payment award,Other than Options,Vested and Expected to Vest,Outstanding,Weighted Average Contractual Life Term	1 year 8 months 12 days
$35.00 to $39.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	58,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	9 years 2 months 12 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	55,560
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	1,549
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms	2 years 9 months 18 days
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based payment award,Other than Options,Vested and Expected to Vest,Outstanding,Weighted Average Contractual Life Term	2 years 9 months 18 days
Expected to Vest [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	97,659
Expected to Vest [Member] | $20.00 to $24.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	11,160
Expected to Vest [Member] | $25.00 to $29.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	0
Expected to Vest [Member] | $30.00 to $34.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	85,012
Expected to Vest [Member] | $35.00 to $39.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number	1,487
Minimum [Member] | $5.00 to $9.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	5
Minimum [Member] | $10.00 to $14.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	10
Minimum [Member] | $15.00 - $19.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	15
Minimum [Member] | $20.00 to $24.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	20
Minimum [Member] | $25.00 to $29.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	25
Minimum [Member] | $30.00 to $34.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	30
Minimum [Member] | $35.00 to $39.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	35
Maximum [Member] | $5.00 to $9.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	9.99
Maximum [Member] | $10.00 to $14.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	14.99
Maximum [Member] | $15.00 - $19.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	19.99
Maximum [Member] | $20.00 to $24.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	24.99
Maximum [Member] | $25.00 to $29.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	29.99
Maximum [Member] | $30.00 to $34.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	34.99
Maximum [Member] | $35.00 to $39.99 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price	39.99

Equity_Schedule_of_ShareBased_

Equity - Schedule of Share-Based payment award, Stock Options, Valuations Assumptions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number	708,941
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$25.06
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$7.20	$10
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value	0.3	3.8	7.4
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	3
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition	1 year 8 months 5 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$21.11	$23.12	$16.73
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$2.90	$3	$2.50
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	1.50%	0.60%	1.10%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term, Simplified Method	P4Y	P4Y	P5Y
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate	49.70%	83.40%	94.60%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate	1.60%	1.50%	1.80%
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$33.88	$30.27	$21.92

Equity_Capital_Requirements_De

Equity - Capital Requirements (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]
Capital Requirements, Minimum Capital, Percentage of Aggregate On-Balance Sheet Assets Included In Core Capital	2.75%
Excess Capital, Core Capital In Excess of Capital Required for Capital Adequacy	$345	$192.20
Excess Capital, Core Capital In Excess of Critical Capital	555.6	391.4
Capital Required for Capital Adequacy	421.3	398.5
Capital Required for Critical Capital Adequacy	210.7	199.3
Core Capital	766.3	590.7
Risk-based Capital Required for Regulatory Capital Adequacy	121.6	90.8
Regulatory Capital	776.4	604
Excess Capital, Regulatory Capital In Excess of Risk-Based Capital	$654.80	$513.20
Capital Requirements, Minimum Capital, Percentage of Aggregate Off-Balance Sheet Assets Included In Core Capital	0.75%
Capital Requirements, Critical Capital, Percentage of Core Capital of Total Minimum Capital	50.00%

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)									$9,803	$27,082	$24,138
Deferred income taxes									-6,979	6,670	-1,982
Income tax expense	$2,769	$7,564	($6,368)	($1,141)	$3,774	$8,226	$13,036	$8,716	$2,824	$33,752	$22,156

Income_Taxes_Statutory_Federal

Income Taxes - Statutory Federal Tax Rate (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount									$25,587	$45,943	$31,891
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Amount									1,587	2,116	2,116
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss), Amount									7,766	7,766	7,766
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount									-13,542	-2,693	6
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount									132	384	141
Income tax expense	$2,769	$7,564	($6,368)	($1,141)	$3,774	$8,226	$13,036	$8,716	$2,824	$33,752	$22,156
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent									35.00%	35.00%	35.00%

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Tax_Asse

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments	$30,921,000	$22,349,000
Deferred Tax Asset - basis in securities	4,218,000	2,509,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Unrealized Losses on Available-for-Sale Securities, Gross	0	8,762,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Provision for Loan Losses	3,545,000	4,667,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost	2,443,000	1,916,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	2,105,000	38,532,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	2,100,000	37,900,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Investments	0	1,499,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	1,205,000	2,455,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	42,332,000	44,758,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Comprehensive Income	8,448,000	0
Entity Not Subject to Income Taxes, Difference in Bases, Amount	-195,000	-353,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	298,000	360,000
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	8,941,000	713,000
Deferred tax asset, net	33,391,000	44,045,000
Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	2,105,000	36,432,000
Amortization of Premiums on Capital Investments [Member]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$0	$1,499,000

Income_Taxes_Valuation_Allowan

Income Taxes - Valuation Allowance (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	$2,100,000	$37,900,000
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount	-13,542,000	-2,693,000	6,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	2,105,000	38,532,000
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	6,000,000
Expired Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	22,300
Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards	22,300,000
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	63,700,000
Expires after one year before year two [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	100,000
Expires after year two before year three [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount	$5,900,000

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	$0	$1,148	$1,046	$1,175
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions	-1,148	0	0
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease)	$0	$102	($129)

Employee_Benefits_Details

Employee Benefits - (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan Wage Base	$260,000	$255,000	$250,000
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Requisite Service Period	3 years
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$1,200,000	$1,100,000	$900,000
Base Percentage [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer contribution percentage to retirement plan	13.20%
Excess Percentage for amounts above Social Security taxable wage base] [Member]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer contribution percentage to retirement plan	5.70%

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an2

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Term of Guarantees Minimum	1 year
Term of Guarantees Maximum	30 years
Guarantee obligations issued after January 1, 2003 [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	3,800,000	$3,900,000
Guarantee obligations issued prior to January 1, 2003 [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	70,600	$108,700

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an3

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Schedule of Guarantor Obligations Activity (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Guarantee and commitment obligation	$37,925		$39,667		$37,803		$27,440
Additions to guarantee and commitment obligations	4,966	[1]	8,414	[1]	15,134	[1]
Amortization of the Guarantee and Commitment Obligation	$6,708		$6,550		$4,771
[1]	Represents the fair value of the guarantee and commitment obligation at inception.

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an4

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Off-Balance Sheet Guaranteed Securities (Details) (Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$1,636,592	$1,766,982
Farm & Ranch [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	636,086	765,751
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	13,978	20,222
Institutional Credit [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$986,528	$981,009

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an5

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Cash Flows from Off-balance sheet Guaranteed Securities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities	$175,754,000	$150,417,000	$38,063,000
Proceeds from Fees Received	4,612,000	5,182,000	5,197,000
Payments to Acquire Loans and Leases Held-for-investment	0	6,667,000	8,933,000
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining maturity, Loans underlying guarantees not held by transferor	12 years 0 months 0 days	12 years 9 months 18 days
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value	$11,100,000	$13,400,000
Institutional Credit [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining maturity, Loans underlying guarantees not held by transferor	2 years 5 months 5 days	3 years 4 months 20 days

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an6

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$2,200,000,000	$2,300,000,000
Weighted average remaining maturity, Loans underlying guarantees not held by transferor	14 years 3 months 18 days	13 years 10 months 24 days
Guarantee obligations issued after January 1, 2003 [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	3,800,000,000	3,900,000,000
Guarantee obligations issued after January 1, 2003 [Member] | Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value	$26,800,000	$26,300,000

OffBalance_Sheet_Guarantees_an7

Off-Balance Sheet Guarantees and Long Term Standby Purchase Commitments - Future Minimum Lease Payments and Other Contractual Obligations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net	$1,300,000	$1,300,000	$1,300,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	1,375,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	1,378,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	1,400,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	1,388,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	1,389,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	6,951,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	13,881,000
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months	773,000
Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year	209,000
Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year	88,000
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year	0
Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year	0
Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year	0
Contractual Obligation	1,070,000
Farm & Ranch Loans and USDA Guarantees [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Loans and Leases Receivable, Commitments to Purchase or Sell	29,700,000	54,800,000
Rural Utilities Loans [Member]
Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Loans and Leases Receivable, Commitments to Purchase or Sell	$4,000,000	$26,300,000

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Narrati

Fair Value Disclosures - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Credit Risk Valuation Adjustment, Derivative Assets and Liabilities	$200,000	$0
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets and Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	$5,500,000,000	$6,800,000,000
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Fair Value as Percent of Total Assets	38.00%	51.00%
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities, Fair Value as Percent of Total Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value	73.00%	73.00%

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Fair_Va

Fair Value Disclosures - Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	$4,177	$19,718
Derivative Liability	38,217	64,388
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	3,520,075	3,193,248
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value	421	2,617
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	5,973	6,238
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	5,973	4,420
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value		1,818
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	0	0
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	0	0
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	5,973	6,238
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount	5,973	4,420
Real estate owned, at lower of cost or fair value		1,818
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	4,177	19,718
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	7,374,178	9,207,406
Derivative Liability	84,844	75,708
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	84,844	75,708
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	1,050,691	755,633
Derivative Liability	3	1
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	3	1
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	4,177	19,718
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	851,409	1,681,742
Derivative Liability	84,841	75,472
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	84,841	75,472
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset	0	0
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	5,472,078	6,770,031
Derivative Liability	0	235
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	235
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,631,662	5,070,366
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,631,662	5,070,366
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	27,619	21,234
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	27,619	21,234
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,659,281	5,091,600
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,659,281	5,091,600
Investment Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,939,188	2,484,075
Investment Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,050,691	755,633
Investment Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	847,232	1,662,024
Investment Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	41,265	66,418
Investment Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,938,499	2,483,147
Investment Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,050,691	755,633
Investment Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	847,232	1,662,024
Investment Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	40,576	65,490
Investment Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	689	928
Investment Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Investment Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Investment Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	689	928
USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,771,532	1,612,013
USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,771,532	1,612,013
USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,731,222	1,553,669
USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,731,222	1,553,669
USDA Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	40,310	58,344
USDA Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
USDA Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	40,310	58,344
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	40,576	65,285
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	40,576	65,285
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	100,902	166,104
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	100,902	166,104
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	689	928
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	689	928
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	10,091	109,769
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	10,091	109,769
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	612,753	621,269
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	612,753	621,064
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	205
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member} | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	66,320	63,385
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member} | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member} | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	66,320	63,385
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | GSE Subordinated Debt [Member} | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Senior Agency Debt [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	18,939	524,062
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Senior Agency Debt [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Senior Agency Debt [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	18,939	524,062
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Senior Agency Debt [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	74,979
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	74,979
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	30,025	55,141
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	30,025	55,141
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Corporate Debt Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	8,202	8,657
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	8,202	8,657
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		83,161
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		83,161
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Preferred Stock [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		30,681
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		30,681
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | Taxable Municipal Bonds [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	975,712	755,633
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	975,712	755,633
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fixed Interest Rate [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	$0	$0

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Unobser

Fair Value Disclosures - Unobservable Input Reconciliation (Details) (Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member], Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			$6,770,031		$6,770,031		$6,421,447		$5,843,186
Purchases					1,434,461		1,635,627		1,469,057
Sales					26,675		0		5,327
Settlements					1,153,191		1,129,054		873,152
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					15,292		-19,049		6,695
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					64,946		-138,940		-19,012
Transfers Out					1,632,786
Ending Balance	5,472,078				5,472,078		6,770,031		6,421,447
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			235		235		691		1,335
Purchases					0		0		0
Sales					0		0		0
Settlements					0		0		0
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					235		456		644
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0		0		0
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	0				0		235		691
Investment Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			66,418		66,418		64,406		62,009
Purchases					0		233		0
Sales					26,675		0		0
Settlements					890		798		812
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					-379		455		263
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					2,791		2,122		2,946
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	41,265				41,265		66,418		64,406
USDA Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss							500
Trading Securities, Unrealized Gains					1,800				300
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			1,612,013		1,612,013		1,590,783		1,491,905
Purchases					335,359		361,894		479,324
Sales					0		0		0
Settlements					228,585		278,605		364,900
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					1,151		-1,274		44
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					51,594		-60,785		-15,590
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	1,771,532				1,771,532		1,612,013		1,590,783
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Investment Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			65,490		65,490		63,159		60,213
Purchases					0		233		0
Sales					26,675		0		0
Settlements					205		24		0
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					-825		0		0
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					2,791		2,122		2,946
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	40,576				40,576		65,490		63,159
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			5,091,600		5,091,600		4,766,258		4,289,272
Purchases					1,099,102		1,273,500		989,733
Sales					0		0		5,327
Settlements					923,716		849,651		507,440
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					14,520		-18,230		6,388
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					10,561		-80,277		-6,368
Transfers Out					1,632,786
Ending Balance	3,659,281				3,659,281		5,091,600		4,766,258
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			1,553,669		1,553,669		1,486,595		1,279,546
Purchases					335,359		361,894		479,324
Sales					0		0		0
Settlements					209,400		234,035		256,685
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					0		0		0
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					51,594		-60,785		-15,590
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	1,731,222				1,731,222		1,553,669		1,486,595
Trading Securities [Member] | Investment Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			928		928		1,247		1,796
Purchases					0		0		0
Sales					0		0		0
Settlements					685		774		812
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					446		455		263
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0		0		0
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	689				689		928		1,247
Trading Securities [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			58,344	[1],[2]	58,344	[1],[2]	104,188	[1],[3]	212,359	[3]
Purchases					0	[2]	0	[1]	0	[3]
Sales					0	[2]	0	[1]	0	[3]
Settlements					19,185	[2]	44,570	[1]	108,215	[3]
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					1,151	[2]	-1,274	[1]	44	[3]
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0	[2]	0	[1]	0	[3]
Transfers Out					0	[2]
Ending Balance	40,310	[2]			40,310	[2]	58,344	[1],[2]	104,188	[1],[3]
Institutional Credit [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			5,070,366	[4]	5,070,366	[4]	4,739,577		4,253,673
Purchases					1,091,475	[4]	1,273,500		984,406
Sales					0	[4]	0		0
Settlements					922,908	[4]	844,437		498,533
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					14,520	[4]	-18,230		6,388
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					10,995	[4]	-80,044		-6,357
Transfers Out	20,700		1,600,000		1,632,786	[4]	0		0
Ending Balance	3,631,662	[4]			3,631,662	[4]	5,070,366	[4]	4,739,577
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			21,234		21,234		26,681		35,599
Purchases					7,627		0		5,327
Sales					0		0		5,327
Settlements					808		5,214		8,907
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					0		0		0
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					-434		-233		-11
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	27,619				27,619		21,234		26,681
Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			235	[5]	235	[5]	691	[5],[6]	1,335	[6]
Purchases					0		0	[5]	0	[6]
Sales					0		0	[5]	0	[6]
Settlements					0		0	[5]	0	[6]
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					235		456	[5]	644	[6]
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0		0	[5]	0	[6]
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	0				0		235	[5]	691	[5],[6]
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			65,285		65,285		63,159		60,213
Purchases					0		0		0
Sales					26,675		0		0
Settlements					0		0		0
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					-825		0		0
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					2,791		2,126		2,946
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	40,576				40,576		65,285		63,159
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			205		205		0
Purchases					0		233
Sales					0		0
Settlements					205		24
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					0		0
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0		-4
Transfers Out					0
Ending Balance	0				0		205
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Trading Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance			928	[7],[8]	928	[7],[8]	1,247	[7],[9]	1,796	[9]
Purchases					0	[8]	0	[7]	0	[9]
Sales					0	[8]	0	[7]	0	[9]
Settlements					685	[8]	774	[7]	812	[9]
Realized and Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Income					446	[8]	455	[7]	263	[9]
Unrealized Gains/(Losses) included in Other Comprehen-sive Income					0	[8]	0	[7]	0	[9]
Transfers Out					0	[8]
Ending Balance	$689	[8]			$689	[8]	$928	[7],[8]	$1,247	[7],[9]
[1]	Includes unrealized losses of $0.5 million attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2013 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
[2]	Includes unrealized gains of $1.8 million attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2014 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
[3]	Includes unrealized gains of $0.3 million attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2012 that are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
[4]	Includes $1.6 billion of AgVantage Securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity on January 1, 2014 and $20.7 million of AgVantage securities purchased during 2014 transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity.
[5]	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of DecemberB 31, 2013 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
[6]	Unrealized gains are attributable to liabilities still held as of DecemberB 31, 2012 and are recorded in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities."
[7]	(1)Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2013 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
[8]	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2014 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."
[9]	Unrealized gains are attributable to assets still held as of DecemberB 31, 2012 and are recorded in "Gains/(losses) on trading securities."

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Quantit

Fair Value Disclosures - Quantitative Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Derivative Liability	38,217	64,388
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Derivative Liability	84,844	75,708
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Derivative Liability	0	235
Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Derivative Liability		235
Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, at fair value	3,631,662	5,070,366
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, at fair value	27,619	21,234
USDA Guarantees [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	1,771,532	1,612,013
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, at fair value	40,576	65,285
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Trading, at fair value	689	928
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	10.00%	10.00%
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Government/GSE Guaranteed Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Available-for-sale, at fair value		205
Floating Interest Rate [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	6.00%	6.00%
Minimum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Range of Offered Quotes	82.00%	82.00%
Minimum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	12.20%	13.00%
Minimum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.70%	1.80%
Minimum [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	0.80%	0.90%
Minimum [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	0.80%	0.90%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	8.00%	7.00%
Minimum [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.10%	1.20%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	0.00%	0.00%
Minimum [Member] | Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	0.60%	0.70%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	10.00%	10.00%
Maximum [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Range of Offered Quotes	92.00%	92.00%
Maximum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	20.90%	22.50%
Maximum [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.70%	1.80%
Maximum [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	2.20%	3.60%
Maximum [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	3.20%	3.20%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	15.00%	14.00%
Maximum [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	5.20%	5.30%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	15.00%	23.00%
Maximum [Member] | Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	2.40%	2.30%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	11.00%	11.00%
Weighted Average [Member] | Market Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Floating rate auction-rate certificates backed by Government guaranteed student loans | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Range of Offered Quotes	87.70%	88.10%
Weighted Average [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	16.60%	17.70%
Weighted Average [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Collateralized Mortgage Obligations [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.70%	1.80%
Weighted Average [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.50%	1.80%
Weighted Average [Member] | Institutional Credit [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.80%	1.90%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	6.00%	11.00%
Weighted Average [Member] | USDA Guarantees [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | USDA Securities [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	3.20%	3.40%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	6.00%	5.00%
Weighted Average [Member] | Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] | Cost Approach Valuation Technique [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate	1.20%	1.30%
Fair Value Inputs, Prepayment Rate	10.00%	10.00%

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Summary

Fair Value Disclosures - Summary of Carrying Value and Fair Value (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial derivatives	$4,177	$19,718
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:	41,786	43,904
Derivative Liability	38,217	64,388
Guarantee and commitment obligation	37,925	39,667	37,803	27,440
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	1,363,387	749,313
Loans	3,520,075	3,193,248
Financial derivatives	4,177	19,718
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	424,214	261,760
Derivative Liability	84,844	75,708
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Investment Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	1,939,188	2,484,075
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	5,453,901	5,091,600
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	1,771,532	1,612,013
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:	27,807	27,244
Guarantee and commitment obligation	26,843	26,293
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:	13,979	16,660
Guarantee and commitment obligation	11,082	13,374
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Due within one year [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes payable:	7,353,953	7,338,781
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes payable:	5,471,186	5,001,169
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	1,363,387	749,313
Loans	3,547,424	3,138,932
Financial derivatives	4,177	19,718
Debt securities of consolidated trusts held by third parties	423,085	257,512
Derivative Liability	84,844	75,708
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Investment Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	1,939,188	2,484,075
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	5,459,857	5,091,600
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | USDA Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Marketable Securities	1,771,532	1,612,013
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Long-Term Standby Purchase Commitments [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:	29,095	33,807
Guarantee and commitment obligation	28,130	32,856
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Guarantee and commitment fees receivable:	14,200	18,470
Guarantee and commitment obligation	11,303	15,185
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Due within one year [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes payable:	7,357,770	7,353,356
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes payable:	$5,556,570	$4,977,942

Business_Segment_Reporting_Nar

Business Segment Reporting - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total notes payable	$12,825,139,000	$12,339,950,000
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	1,800,000,000
Total notes payable	470,000,000
Preferred Stock outstanding	250,000,000
Common Stock outstanding	$1,000,000,000

Business_Segment_Reporting_Det

Business Segment Reporting - (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating	$58,199	$60,882	$61,775	$49,718	$49,180	$62,975	$61,745	$61,498	$230,574	[1]	$235,398	[2]	$264,670	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									0		0		0
Total interest expense	-44,606	-48,886	-42,502	-34,726	-35,777	-34,787	-33,584	-33,128	-170,720	[3]	-137,276	[4]	-142,690	[4]
Net effective spread	13,593	11,996	19,273	14,992	13,403	28,188	28,161	28,370	59,854		98,122		121,980
Guarantee and commitment fees	6,094	6,172	6,403	6,518	6,768	6,819	6,759	6,612	25,187		26,958		24,963
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									18,596	[5]	38,813	[6]	-21,228	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)	11,665	23,455	8,964	-301	17,022	9,821	26,483	12,445	43,783		65,771		3,735
Release of/(provision for) loan losses	462	-511	1,583	-573	-117	499	529	-430	961		481		-3,691
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									2,205		-929		1,816
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-33,697		-32,178		-32,724
Noninterest Expense	-8,594	-7,095	-7,856	-7,947	-7,621	-8,441	-7,964	-9,081	-31,492	[7]	-33,107	[7]	-30,908	[7]
Income before income taxes	17,126	27,845	21,964	6,171	22,687	30,067	47,209	31,304	73,106		131,267		91,116
Income tax expense	-2,769	-7,564	6,368	1,141	-3,774	-8,226	-13,036	-8,716	-2,824		-33,752		-22,156
Net income	14,357	20,281	28,332	7,312	18,913	21,841	34,173	22,588	70,282		97,515		68,960
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact	-3,296	-3,283	-2,308	-952	-882	-881	-881	-851	-9,839		-3,495		-2,879
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends	-5,414	-5,412	-5,819	-5,547	-5,546	-5,547	-5,547	-5,547	-22,192		-22,187		-22,187
Net income attributable to common stockholders	5,647	11,586	20,205	813	12,485	15,413	27,745	16,190	38,251		71,833		43,894
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	14,287,821				13,361,780				14,287,821		13,361,780		12,622,201
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	14,597,758				13,950,312				14,597,758		13,950,312		13,015,188
Farm & Ranch [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									78,934	[1]	67,429	[2]	70,590	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									-2,086		-964		-1,659
Total interest expense									-45,025	[3]	-32,062	[4]	-36,390	[4]
Net effective spread									31,823		34,403		32,541
Guarantee and commitment fees									15,107		14,944		14,292
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									762	[5]	2,244	[6]	2,427	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									15,869		17,188		16,719
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									961		481		-3,691
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									2,205		-929		1,816
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-15,180		-14,649		-14,836
Noninterest Expense									-12,975	[7]	-15,578	[7]	-13,020	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									35,678		36,494		32,549
Income tax expense									-12,486		-12,773		-11,392
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									23,192		23,721		21,157
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									0		0		0
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									0		0		0
Segment core earnings									23,192		23,721		21,157
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	2,611,401				2,190,224				2,611,401		2,190,224		1,736,391
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	5,417,174				5,163,080				5,417,174		5,163,080		4,747,289
USDA Guarantees [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									54,955	[1]	53,384	[2]	56,815	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									0		0		0
Total interest expense									-36,689	[3]	-35,656	[4]	-38,761	[4]
Net effective spread									18,266		17,728		18,054
Guarantee and commitment fees									134		132		163
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									63	[5]	791	[6]	599	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									197		923		762
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									0		0		0
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-2,955		-2,904		-2,773
Noninterest Expense									-2,955	[7]	-2,904	[7]	-2,773	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									15,508		15,747		16,043
Income tax expense									-5,430		-5,511		-5,615
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									10,078		10,236		10,428
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									0		0		0
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									0		0		0
Segment core earnings									10,078		10,236		10,428
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	1,825,210				1,656,688				1,825,210		1,656,688		1,641,030
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	1,798,034				1,687,117				1,798,034		1,687,117		1,615,579
Rural Utilities [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									27,879	[1]	35,194	[2]	35,566	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									0		0		0
Total interest expense									-17,138	[3]	-23,601	[4]	-23,301	[4]
Net effective spread									10,741		11,593		12,265
Guarantee and commitment fees									0		0		0
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									9	[5]	0	[6]	466	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									9		0		466
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									0		0		0
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-3,130		-3,100		-3,204
Noninterest Expense									-3,130	[7]	-3,100	[7]	-3,204	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									7,620		8,493		9,527
Income tax expense									-2,668		-2,973		-3,334
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									4,952		5,520		6,193
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									0		0		0
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									0		0		0
Segment core earnings									4,952		5,520		6,193
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	995,082				1,076,298				995,082		1,076,298		1,080,045
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	985,609				1,052,251				985,609		1,052,251		1,031,945
Institutional Credit [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									67,019	[1]	77,868	[2]	88,801	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									0		0		0
Total interest expense									-38,456	[3]	-53,613	[4]	-64,942	[4]
Net effective spread									28,563		24,255		23,859
Guarantee and commitment fees									12,032		12,846		12,167
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									0	[5]	0	[6]	0	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									12,032		12,846		12,167
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									0		0		0
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-1,891		-1,774		-1,834
Noninterest Expense									-1,891	[7]	-1,774	[7]	-1,834	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									38,704		35,327		34,192
Income tax expense									-13,548		-12,364		-11,967
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									25,156		22,963		22,225
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									0		0		0
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									0		0		0
Segment core earnings									25,156		22,963		22,225
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	5,459,296				5,121,666				5,459,296		5,121,666		4,772,509
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	6,396,941				6,047,864				6,396,941		6,047,864		5,620,375
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									17,637	[1]	21,940	[2]	24,729	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									0		0		0
Total interest expense									-3,830	[3]	-4,668	[4]	-4,891	[4]
Net effective spread									13,807		17,272		19,838
Guarantee and commitment fees									0		0		0
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									-4,913	[5]	1,622	[6]	-2,113	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									-4,913		1,622		-2,113
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									0		0		0
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									-10,541		-9,751		-10,077
Noninterest Expense									-10,541	[7]	-9,751	[7]	-10,077	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									-1,647		9,143		7,648
Income tax expense									23,347		8,991		7,057
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									21,700		18,134		14,705
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									-9,839		-3,495		-2,879
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									-22,192		-22,187		-22,187
Segment core earnings									-10,331		-7,548		-10,361
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	3,396,832				3,316,904				3,396,832		3,316,904		3,392,226
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating									-15,850	[1]	-20,417	[2]	-11,831	[2]
Interest Income Reclassification									2,086		964		1,659
Total interest expense									-29,582	[3]	12,324	[4]	25,595	[4]
Net effective spread									-43,346		-7,129		15,423
Guarantee and commitment fees									-2,086		-964		-1,659
Other Non-Interest Income (Expense), Excluding Guarantee and Commitment Fees									22,675	[5]	34,156	[6]	-22,607	[6]
Non-interest income/(loss)									20,589		33,192		-24,266
Release of/(provision for) loan losses									0		0		0
(Release of)/provision for reserve for losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense, Excluding Loan, Lease and Other Losses									0		0		0
Noninterest Expense									0	[7]	0	[7]	0	[7]
Segment core earnings before income taxes									-22,757	[8]	26,063	[8]	-8,843	[8]
Income tax expense									7,961		-9,122		3,095
Segment core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attibution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									-14,796	[8]	16,941	[8]	-5,748	[8]
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact									0		0		0
Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends									0		0		0
Segment core earnings									-14,796	[8]	16,941	[8]	-5,748
Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]
Assets	0				0				0		0		0
On and Off Balance Sheet Program Assets, At Principal Balance	$0				$0				$0		$0		$0
[1]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts and interest income related to securities purchased under agreements to resell.
[2]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
[3]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements. Includes reconciling adjustments for interest expense related to securities sold, not yet purchased.
[4]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
[5]	Includes interest income and interest expense related to securities purchased under agreements to resell and securities sold, not yet purchased, respectively; reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets; and a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
[6]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the reclassification of expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges and fair value adjustments on financial derivatives and trading assets. Also includes a reconciling adjustment related to the recognition of deferred gains over the estimated lives of certain Farmer Mac Guaranteed Securities and USDA Securities.
[7]	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.
[8]	NetB adjustments to reconcile core earnings before income taxes; core earnings before preferred stock dividends and attribution of income to non-controlling interest - preferred stock dividends; and segment core earnings to corresponding income measures: income before income taxes, net income, and net income attributable to common stockholders, respectively.

Quarterly_Financial_Informatio2

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Interest and Dividend Income, Operating	$58,199	$60,882	$61,775	$49,718	$49,180	$62,975	$61,745	$61,498	$230,574	[1]	$235,398	[2]	$264,670	[2]
Total interest expense	44,606	48,886	42,502	34,726	35,777	34,787	33,584	33,128	170,720	[3]	137,276	[4]	142,690	[4]
Net interest income	13,593	11,996	19,273	14,992	13,403	28,188	28,161	28,370	59,854		98,122		121,980
Release of /(provision for) loan losses	-462	511	-1,583	573	117	-499	-529	430	-961		-481		3,691
Net interest income after release of/(provision for) loan losses	14,055	11,485	20,856	14,419	13,286	28,687	28,690	27,940	60,815		98,603		118,289
Guarantee and commitment fees	6,094	6,172	6,403	6,518	6,768	6,819	6,759	6,612	25,187		26,958		24,963
(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities	-9,178	808	-5,698	-7,578	9,263	3,024	14,983	4,494
Gains/(losses) on trading securities	13,857	16,369	7,748	655	-76	-626	-327	210	38,629		-819		307
(Losses)/gains on sale of available-for-sale investment securities	0	-396	143	15	-960	0	3,071	2	-238		2,113		18
Gains on repurchase of debt					1,462	0	0	0	0		1,462		0
Gains on sale of real estate owned	-28	0	168	-3	26	39	1,124	47	137		1,236		878
Other income	920	502	200	92	539	565	873	1,080	1,714		3,057		3,341
Non-interest income/(loss)	11,665	23,455	8,964	-301	17,022	9,821	26,483	12,445	43,783		65,771		3,735
Noninterest Expense	8,594	7,095	7,856	7,947	7,621	8,441	7,964	9,081	31,492	[5]	33,107	[5]	30,908	[5]
Income before income taxes	17,126	27,845	21,964	6,171	22,687	30,067	47,209	31,304	73,106		131,267		91,116
Income tax expense	2,769	7,564	-6,368	-1,141	3,774	8,226	13,036	8,716	2,824		33,752		22,156
Net income	14,357	20,281	28,332	7,312	18,913	21,841	34,173	22,588	70,282		97,515		68,960
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	5,414	5,412	5,819	5,547	5,546	5,547	5,547	5,547	22,192		22,187		22,187
Net income attributable to Farmer Mac	8,943	14,869	22,513	1,765	13,367	16,294	28,626	17,041	48,090		75,328		46,773
Preferred stock dividends	3,296	3,283	2,308	952	882	881	881	851	9,839		3,495		2,879
Net income attributable to common stockholders	$5,647	$11,586	$20,205	$813	$12,485	$15,413	$27,745	$16,190	$38,251		$71,833		$43,894
Basic earnings per common share	$0.52	$1.06	$1.85	$0.07	$1.14	$1.42	$2.57	$1.51	$3.50		$6.64		$4.19
Diluted earnings per common share	$0.50	$1.02	$1.78	$0.07	$1.11	$1.37	$2.48	$1.45	$3.37		$6.41		$3.98
[1]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts and interest income related to securities purchased under agreements to resell.
[2]	Includes reconciling adjustments for the amortization of premiums and discounts on assets consolidated at fair value to reflect core earnings amounts.
[3]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements. Includes reconciling adjustments for interest expense related to securities sold, not yet purchased.
[4]	Based on effective funding cost determined for each operating segment, including expenses related to interest rate swaps not designated as hedges, which are included in "(Losses)/gains on financial derivatives and hedging activities" on the consolidated financial statements.
[5]	Includes directly attributable costs and an allocation of indirectly attributable costs based on headcount.

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Farmer Mac II LLC [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	250,000
Preferred Stock, Dividends Per Share, Declared	$22.19
Preferred Stock, Redemption Date	30-Mar-15
Preferred Stock, Redemption Price Per Share	$1,000
Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount	$250,000,000
Non-controlling Interest - Preferred Stock [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests		$6,000,000	$0	$0

Uncategorized_Items

Uncategorized Items	1/2/14	1/2/13
	USD ($)	USD ($)
[agm_TransferofFarmerMacGuaranteedSecuritiesAvailableforsaletoHeldtomaturityUnrealizedholdinggains]	22,300,000
[agm_TransferOfLoansHeldForSaleToLoansHeldForInvestmentUnamortizedDiscount]		5,900,000