The Allstate Corporation (ALL) 8-K 16 May 19 2018 FY Other Events Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	ALLSTATE CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0000899051
Document Type	8-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2018
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenues
Life premiums and contract charges (net of reinsurance ceded of $290, $303 and $309)	$ 36,513	$ 34,678	$ 33,582
Other income	939	883	865
Net investment income	3,240	3,401	3,042
Realized capital gains and losses:
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(13)	(146)	(313)
OTTI losses reclassified (from) to other comprehensive income (OCI)	(1)	(4)	10
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(14)	(150)	(303)
Sales and valuation changes on equity investments and derivatives	(863)	595	213
Total realized capital gains and losses	(877)	445	(90)
Total revenues	39,815	39,407	37,399
Costs and expenses
Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense (net of reinsurance ceded and indemnification programs of $1,378, $1,807 and $1,116)	22,778	21,847	22,160
Life contract benefits (net of reinsurance ceded of $240, $179 and $208)	1,973	1,923	1,857
Interest credited to contractholder funds (net of reinsurance ceded of $24, $25 and $26)	654	690	726
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	5,222	4,784	4,550
Operating costs and expenses	5,594	5,196	4,846
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	468	(217)	270
Amortization of purchased intangible assets	105	99	32
Restructuring and related charges	67	96	18
Goodwill impairment	0	125	0
Interest expense	332	335	295
Total costs and expenses	37,193	34,878	34,754
Gain on disposition of operations	6	20	5
Income from operations before income tax expense	2,628	4,549	2,650
Income tax expense	468	995	842
Net income	2,160	3,554	1,808
Preferred stock dividends	148	116	116
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ 2,012	$ 3,438	$ 1,692
Earnings per common share:
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 5.78	$ 9.50	$ 4.54
Weighted average common shares - Basic (in shares)	347.8	362	372.8
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 5.70	$ 9.35	$ 4.48
Weighted average common shares - Diluted (in shares)	353.2	367.8	377.3
Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.84	$ 1.48	$ 1.32
Property and casualty insurance
Revenues
Life premiums and contract charges (net of reinsurance ceded of $290, $303 and $309)	$ 34,048	$ 32,300	$ 31,307
Life insurance and other
Revenues
Life premiums and contract charges (net of reinsurance ceded of $290, $303 and $309)	$ 2,465	$ 2,378	$ 2,275

Consolidated Statements of Op_2

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property-liability insurance premiums earned	$ 1,306	$ 1,274	$ 1,296
Property-liability insurance claims and claims expense
Reinsurance ceded amount	1,378	1,807	1,116
Life and annuity contract benefits
Reinsurance ceded amount	240	179	208
Interest credited to contractholder funds
Reinsurance ceded amount	24	25	26
Property-liability insurance premiums earned
Property-liability insurance premiums earned	1,016	971	987
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges	$ 290	$ 303	$ 309

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Changes in:
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(59)	(52)	(33)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, after-tax	(861)	312	409
Comprehensive income	$ 1,299	$ 3,866	$ 2,217

Consolidated Statements of Fina

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Investments
Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost $57,134 and $57,525)	$ 57,170	$ 58,992
Equity Securities, FV-NI	5,036	6,621
Mortgage loans	4,670	4,534
Limited partnership interests	7,505	6,740
Short-term, at fair value (amortized cost $3,027 and $1,944)	3,027	1,944
Other	3,852	3,972
Total investments	81,260	82,803
Cash	499	617
Premium installment receivables, net	6,154	5,786
Deferred policy acquisition costs	4,784	4,191
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	9,565	8,921
Accrued investment income	600	569
Property and equipment, net	1,045	1,072
Goodwill	2,530	2,181
Other assets	3,007	2,838
Separate Accounts	2,805	3,444
Total assets	112,249	112,422
Liabilities
Reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense	27,423	26,325
Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	12,208	12,549
Contractholder funds	18,371	19,434
Unearned premiums	14,510	13,473
Claim payments outstanding	1,007	875
Deferred income taxes	425	782
Other liabilities and accrued expenses	7,737	6,639
Long-term debt	6,451	6,350
Separate Accounts	2,805	3,444
Total liabilities	90,937	89,871
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Note 7, 8 and 14)
Shareholders’ equity
Preferred stock and additional capital paid-in, $1 par value, 25 million shares authorized, 79.8 thousand and 72.2 thousand issued and outstanding, $1,995 and $1,805 aggregate liquidation preference	1,930	1,746
Common stock, $.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized and 900 million issued, 332 million and 355 million shares outstanding	9	9
Additional capital paid-in	3,310	3,313
Retained income	44,033	41,579
Deferred Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) expense	(3)	(3)
Treasury stock, at cost (568 million and 545 million shares)	(28,085)	(25,982)
Unrealized net capital gains and losses:
Unrealized net capital gains and losses on fixed income securities with OTTI	75	85
Other unrealized net capital gains and losses	(51)	1,981
Unrealized adjustment to DAC, DSI and insurance reserves	(26)	(404)
Total unrealized net capital gains and losses	(2)	1,662
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(49)	(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	169	228
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	118	1,889
Total shareholders’ equity	21,312	22,551
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$ 112,249	$ 112,422

Consolidated Statements of Fi_2

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Fixed income securities, at fair value, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 57,134	$ 57,525
Equity securities, at fair value, cost (in dollars)	4,489	5,461
Short-term, at fair value, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 3,027	$ 1,944
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	25,000,000	25,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	79,800	72,200
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	79,800	72,200
Preferred stock, shares aggregate liquidation preference (in dollars)	$ 1,995	$ 1,805
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000,000,000	2,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	900,000,000	900,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	332,000,000	355,000,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	568,000,000	545,000,000

Consolidated Statements of Shar

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Preferred Stock	Balance, end of year	Common stock par value	Common stock additional capital paid-in	Retained income	Deferred ESOP expense	Treasury stock	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Increase (decrease) in equity
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle						$ 0			$ 0
Balance, beginning of year at Dec. 31, 2015			$ 1,746		$ 3,245	37,813	$ (13)	$ (23,620)	840
Increase (decrease) in equity
Preferred stock issuance			0
Preferred stock redemption			0
Forward contract on accelerated share repurchase agreement					0
Equity incentive plans activity					58
Net income	$ 1,808					1,808
Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.84, $1.48 and $1.32)						(496)
Dividends on preferred stock						(116)
Payments	7
Shares acquired								(1,341)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net								220
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	433								433
Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	9								9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(33)								(33)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle						0			0
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2016	20,569	$ 0	1,746	$ 9	3,303	39,009	(6)	(24,741)	1,249
Increase (decrease) in equity
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle						0			0
Preferred stock issuance			0
Preferred stock redemption			0
Forward contract on accelerated share repurchase agreement					(45)
Equity incentive plans activity					55
Net income	3,554					3,554
Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.84, $1.48 and $1.32)						(540)
Dividends on preferred stock						(116)
Payments	3
Shares acquired								(1,423)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net								182
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	319								319
Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	45								45
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(52)								(52)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle						(328)			328
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2017	22,551	0	1,746	9	3,313	41,579	(3)	(25,982)	1,889
Increase (decrease) in equity
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle						1,088			(910)
Preferred stock issuance			557
Preferred stock redemption			(373)
Forward contract on accelerated share repurchase agreement					(105)
Equity incentive plans activity					102
Net income	2,160					2,160
Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.84, $1.48 and $1.32)						(646)
Dividends on preferred stock						(148)
Payments	0
Shares acquired								(2,198)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net								95
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)								(754)
Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(48)								(48)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(59)								(59)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle						0			0
Balance, end of year at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 21,312	$ 0	$ 1,930	$ 9	$ 3,310	$ 44,033	$ (3)	$ (28,085)	$ 118

Consolidated Statements of Sh_2

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity Parenthetical - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.84	$ 1.48	$ 1.32

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items	511	483	382
Realized capital gains and losses	877	(445)	90
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	468	(217)	270
Gain on disposition of operations	(6)	(20)	(5)
Interest credited to contractholder funds	654	690	726
Goodwill impairment	0	125	0
Changes in:
Policy benefits and other insurance reserves	469	302	631
Unearned premiums	915	463	362
Deferred policy acquisition costs	(296)	(214)	(165)
Premium installment receivables, net	(396)	(131)	(42)
Reinsurance recoverables, net	(656)	(211)	(264)
Income taxes	(380)	(52)	381
Other operating assets and liabilities	855	(13)	(181)
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,175	4,314	3,993
Proceeds from sales
Fixed income securities	33,183	25,341	25,061
Equity securities	6,859	6,504	5,546
Limited partnership interests	764	1,125	881
Other investments	533	274	262
Investment collections
Fixed income securities	3,466	4,194	4,533
Mortgage loans	529	600	501
Other investments	488	642	421
Investment purchases
Fixed income securities	(36,960)	(31,145)	(27,990)
Equity securities	(5,936)	(6,585)	(5,950)
Limited partnership interests	(1,679)	(1,440)	(1,450)
Mortgage loans	(664)	(646)	(646)
Other investments	(864)	(999)	(885)
Change in short-term investments, net	(505)	2,610	(2,446)
Change in other investments, net	(98)	(30)	(51)
Purchases of property and equipment, net	(277)	(299)	(313)
Acquisition of operations	(558)	(1,356)	0
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,719)	(1,210)	(2,526)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	498	0	1,236
Redemption and repayment of long-term debt	(400)	0	(17)
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	557	0	0
Redemption of preferred stock	(385)	0	0
Contractholder fund deposits	1,010	1,025	1,049
Contractholder fund withdrawals	(1,967)	(1,890)	(2,087)
Dividends paid on common stock	(614)	(525)	(486)
Dividends paid on preferred stock	(134)	(116)	(116)
Treasury stock purchases	(2,303)	(1,495)	(1,337)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net	73	135	164
Excess tax benefits on share-based payment arrangements	0	0	32
Other	91	(57)	36
Net cash used in financing activities	(3,574)	(2,923)	(1,526)
Net (decrease) increase in cash	(118)	181	(59)
Cash at beginning of year	617	436	495
Cash at end of year	$ 499	$ 617	$ 436

General

General	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
General
General	Note 1 General Basis of presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Allstate Corporation (the “Corporation”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, primarily Allstate Insurance Company (“AIC”), a property and casualty insurance company with various property and casualty and life and investment subsidiaries, including Allstate Life Insurance Company (“ALIC”) (collectively referred to as the “Company” or “Allstate”). These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“Tax Legislation”) became effective, permanently reducing the U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% beginning January 1, 2018. As a result, the corporate tax rate is not comparable between periods. Nature of operations Allstate is engaged, principally in the United States, in the property and casualty insurance and life insurance businesses. Allstate is one of the country’s largest personal property and casualty insurers and is organized into seven reportable segments: Allstate Protection, Discontinued Lines and Coverages, Service Businesses, Allstate Life, Allstate Benefits, Allstate Annuities, and Corporate and Other. Allstate’s primary business is the sale of private passenger auto and homeowners insurance. The Company also offers several other personal property and casualty insurance products, select commercial property and casualty coverages, consumer product protection plans, device and mobile data collection services and analytic solutions , roadside assistance, finance and insurance products, life insurance, voluntary accident and health insurance and identity protection. Allstate primarily distributes its products through exclusive agencies, financial specialists, independent agencies and brokers, major retailers, contact centers and the internet. Risks and uncertainties Allstate has exposure to catastrophes, an inherent risk of the property and casualty insurance business, which have contributed, and will continue to contribute, to material year-to-year fluctuations in the Company’s results of operations and financial position (see Note 8). The nature and level of catastrophic loss caused by natural events (high winds, winter storms, tornadoes, hailstorms, wildfires, tropical storms, hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanoes) and man-made events (terrorism and industrial accidents) experienced in any period cannot be predicted and could be material to results of operations and financial position. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to wildfires to generally be in the states of California, Colorado, Arizona and Texas. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to hurricanes to generally be major metropolitan centers in counties along the eastern and gulf coasts of the United States. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to hailstorms to generally be in the states of Texas, Illinois, Colorado and Georgia. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to earthquakes and fires following earthquakes to be major metropolitan areas near fault lines in the states of California, Oregon, Washington, South Carolina, Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee. The Company also has exposure to asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines claims (see Notes 8 and 14).

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Investments Fixed income securities include bonds, asset-backed securities (“ABS”), residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”), commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and redeemable preferred stocks. Fixed income securities, which may be sold prior to their contractual maturity, are designated as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value. The difference between amortized cost and fair value, net of deferred income taxes and related life and annuity deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”), deferred sales inducement costs (“DSI”) and reserves for life-contingent contract benefits, is reflected as a component of AOCI. Cash received from calls and make-whole payments is reflected as a component of proceeds from sales and cash received from maturities and pay-downs is reflected as a component of investment collections within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Equity securities primarily include common stocks, exchange traded and mutual funds, non-redeemable preferred stocks and real estate investment trust equity investments. Certain exchange traded and mutual funds have fixed income securities as their underlying investments. Equity securities are carried at fair value. Equity securities without readily determinable or estimable fair values are measured using the measurement alternative, which is cost less impairment, if any, and adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer. The periodic change in fair value of equity securities is recognized within realized capital gains and losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations effective January 1, 2018. Mortgage loans are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premium or discount and valuation allowances. Valuation allowances are established for impaired loans when it is probable that contractual principal and interest will not be collected. Investments in limited partnership interests are primarily accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting (“EMA”) and include interests in private equity funds, real estate funds and other funds. Investments in limited partnership interests purchased prior to January 1, 2018, where the Company’s interest is so minor that it exercises virtually no influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for at fair value primarily utilizing the net asset value (“NAV”) as a practical expedient to determine fair value. Short-term investments, including commercial paper, U.S. Treasury bills, money market funds and other short-term investments, are carried at fair value. Other investments primarily consist of bank loans, policy loans, real estate, agent loans and derivatives. Bank loans are primarily senior secured corporate loans and are carried at amortized cost. Policy loans are carried at unpaid principal balances. Real estate is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Agent loans are loans issued to exclusive Allstate agents and are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of valuation allowances and unamortized deferred fees or costs. Derivatives are carried at fair value. Investment income primarily consists of interest, dividends, income from limited partnership interests, rental income from real estate, and income from certain derivative transactions. Interest is recognized on an accrual basis using the effective yield method and dividends are recorded at the ex-dividend date. Interest income for ABS, RMBS and CMBS is determined considering estimated pay-downs, including prepayments, obtained from third party data sources and internal estimates. Actual prepayment experience is periodically reviewed and effective yields are recalculated when differences arise between the prepayments originally anticipated and the actual prepayments received and currently anticipated. For ABS, RMBS and CMBS of high credit quality with fixed interest rates, the effective yield is recalculated on a retrospective basis. For all others, the effective yield is recalculated on a prospective basis. Accrual of income is suspended for other-than-temporarily impaired fixed income securities when the timing and amount of cash flows expected to be received is not reasonably estimable. Accrual of income is suspended for mortgage loans, bank loans and agent loans that are in default or when full and timely collection of principal and interest payments is not probable. Cash receipts on investments on nonaccrual status are generally recorded as a reduction of carrying value. Income from limited partnership interests carried at fair value is recognized based upon the changes in fair value of the investee’s equity primarily determined using NAV. Income from EMA limited partnership interests is recognized based on the Company’s share of the partnerships’ earnings. Income from EMA limited partnership interests is generally recognized on a three month delay due to the availability of the related financial statements from investees. Realized capital gains and losses include gains and losses on investment sales, write-downs in value due to other-than-temporary declines in fair value, adjustments to valuation allowances on mortgage loans and agent loans, valuation changes of equity investments, including equity securities and certain limited partnerships where the underlying assets are predominately public equity securities, and periodic changes in fair value and settlements of certain derivatives including hedge ineffectiveness. Realized capital gains and losses on investment sales are determined on a specific identification basis. Derivative and embedded derivative financial instruments Derivative financial instruments include interest rate swaps, credit default swaps, futures (interest rate and equity), options (including swaptions), interest rate caps, warrants and rights, foreign currency swaps, foreign currency forwards, total return swaps and certain investment risk transfer reinsurance agreements. Derivatives required to be separated from the host instrument and accounted for as derivative financial instruments (“subject to bifurcation”) are embedded in equity-indexed life and annuity contracts and reinsured variable annuity contracts. All derivatives are accounted for on a fair value basis and reported as other investments, other assets, other liabilities and accrued expenses or contractholder funds. Embedded derivative instruments subject to bifurcation are also accounted for on a fair value basis and are reported together with the host contract. The change in fair value of derivatives embedded in life and annuity product contracts and subject to bifurcation is reported in life and annuity contract benefits or interest credited to contractholder funds. Cash flows from embedded derivatives subject to bifurcation and derivatives receiving hedge accounting are reported consistently with the host contracts and hedged risks, respectively, within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Cash flows from other derivatives are reported in cash flows from investing activities within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. When derivatives meet specific criteria, they may be designated as accounting hedges and accounted for as fair value, cash flow, foreign currency fair value or foreign currency cash flow hedges. The hedged item may be either all or a specific portion of a recognized asset, liability or an unrecognized firm commitment attributable to a particular risk for fair value hedges. At the inception of the hedge, the Company formally documents the hedging relationship and risk management objective and strategy. The documentation identifies the hedging instrument, the hedged item, the nature of the risk being hedged and the methodology used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging instrument in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value attributable to the hedged risk. For a cash flow hedge, this documentation includes the exposure to changes in the variability in cash flows attributable to the hedged risk. The Company does not exclude any component of the change in fair value of the hedging instrument from the effectiveness assessment. At each reporting date, the Company confirms that the hedging instrument continues to be highly effective in offsetting the hedged risk. Ineffectiveness in fair value hedges and cash flow hedges, if any, is reported in realized capital gains and losses. Fair value hedges The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of investment assets or a portion thereof is reported in net investment income, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of contractholder funds liabilities or a portion thereof is reported in interest credited to contractholder funds, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. Accrued periodic settlements on swaps are reported together with the changes in fair value of the related swaps in net investment income or interest credited to contractholder funds. The amortized cost for fixed income securities, the carrying value for mortgage loans or the carrying value of a designated hedged liability is adjusted for the change in fair value of the hedged risk. Cash flow hedges For hedging instruments used in cash flow hedges, the changes in fair value of the derivatives representing the effective portion of the hedge are reported in AOCI. Amounts are reclassified to net investment income, realized capital gains and losses or interest expense as the hedged or forecasted transaction affects income. Accrued periodic settlements on derivatives used in cash flow hedges are reported in net investment income. The amount reported in AOCI for a hedged transaction is limited to the lesser of the cumulative gain or loss on the derivative less the amount reclassified to income, or the cumulative gain or loss on the derivative needed to offset the cumulative change in the expected future cash flows on the hedged transaction from inception of the hedge less the derivative gain or loss previously reclassified from AOCI to income. If the Company expects at any time that the loss reported in AOCI would lead to a net loss on the combination of the hedging instrument and the hedged transaction which may not be recoverable, a loss is recognized immediately in realized capital gains and losses. If an impairment loss is recognized on an asset or an additional obligation is incurred on a liability involved in a hedge transaction, any offsetting gain in AOCI is reclassified and reported together with the impairment loss or recognition of the obligation. Termination of hedge accounting If, subsequent to entering into a hedge transaction, the derivative becomes ineffective (including if the hedged item is sold or otherwise extinguished, the occurrence of a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable or the hedged asset becomes other-than-temporarily impaired), the Company may terminate the derivative position. The Company may also terminate derivative instruments or redesignate them as non-hedge as a result of other events or circumstances. If the derivative instrument is not terminated when a fair value hedge is no longer effective, the future gains and losses recognized on the derivative are reported in realized capital gains and losses. When a fair value hedge is no longer effective, is redesignated as non-hedge or when the derivative has been terminated, the fair value gain or loss on the hedged asset, liability or portion thereof previously recognized in income while the hedge was in place and used to adjust the amortized cost of hedged fixed income securities, carrying value of hedged mortgage loans or carrying value of a hedged liability, is amortized over the remaining life of the hedged asset, liability or portion thereof, and reflected in net investment income or interest credited to contractholder funds beginning in the period that hedge accounting is no longer applied. If the hedged item in a fair value hedge is an asset that has become other-than-temporarily impaired, the adjustment made to the amortized cost for fixed income securities or the carrying value for mortgage loans is subject to the accounting policies applied to other-than-temporarily impaired assets. When a derivative instrument used in a cash flow hedge of an existing asset or liability is no longer effective or is terminated, the gain or loss recognized on the derivative is reclassified from AOCI to income as the hedged risk impacts income. If the derivative instrument is not terminated when a cash flow hedge is no longer effective, future gains and losses recognized on the derivative are reported in realized capital gains and losses. When a derivative instrument used in a cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction is terminated because it is probable the forecasted transaction will not occur, the gain or loss recognized on the derivative is immediately reclassified from AOCI to realized capital gains and losses in the period that hedge accounting is no longer applied. Non-hedge derivative financial instruments For derivatives for which hedge accounting is not applied, the income statement effects, including fair value gains and losses and accrued periodic settlements, are reported either in realized capital gains and losses or in a single line item together with the results of the associated asset or liability for which risks are being managed. Securities loaned The Company’s business activities include securities lending transactions, which are used primarily to generate net investment income. The proceeds received in conjunction with securities lending transactions are reinvested in short-term investments or fixed income securities. These transactions are short-term in nature, usually 30 days or less. The Company receives cash collateral for securities loaned in an amount generally equal to 102% and 105% of the fair value of domestic and foreign securities, respectively, and records the related obligations to return the collateral in other liabilities and accrued expenses. The carrying value of these obligations approximates fair value because of their relatively short-term nature. The Company monitors the market value of securities loaned on a daily basis and obtains additional collateral as necessary under the terms of the agreements to mitigate counterparty credit risk. The Company maintains the right and ability to repossess the securities loaned on short notice. Recognition of premium revenues and contract charges, and related benefits and interest credited Property and casualty insurance premiums include premiums from personal lines policies, protection plans, other contracts (primarily finance and insurance products) and roadside assistance. Personal lines insurance premiums are deferred and earned on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the policies, typically periods of six or twelve months. Revenues related to protection plans, other contracts (primarily finance and insurance products) and roadside assistance are deferred and earned over the term of the contract in a manner that recognizes revenue as obligations under the contracts are performed. Revenues from these products are classified as premiums as the products are backed by insurance. Protection plans and finance and insurance premiums are recognized using a cost-based incurrence method over the term of the contracts, which is generally over one to five years. Roadside assistance premiums are recognized evenly over the term of the contract as performance obligations are fulfilled . The portion of premiums written applicable to the unexpired terms of the policies is recorded as unearned premiums. Premium installment receivables, net, represent premiums written and not yet collected, net of an allowance for uncollectible premiums. The Company regularly evaluates premium installment receivables and adjusts its valuation allowance as appropriate. The valuation allowance for uncollectible premium installment receivables was $77 million as of both December 31, 2018 and 2017 . Traditional life insurance products consist principally of products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits, primarily term and whole life insurance products. Voluntary accident and health insurance products are expected to remain in force for an extended period and therefore are primarily classified as long-duration contracts. Premiums from these products are recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. Benefits are reflected in contract benefits and recognized over the life of the policy in relation to premiums. Immediate annuities with life contingencies, including certain structured settlement annuities, provide benefits over a period that extends beyond the period during which premiums are collected. Premiums from these products are recognized as revenue when received at the inception of the contract. Benefits and expenses are recognized in relation to premiums. Profits from these policies come primarily from investment income, which is recognized over the life of the contract. Interest-sensitive life contracts, such as universal life and single premium life, are insurance contracts whose terms are not fixed and guaranteed. The terms that may be changed include premiums paid by the contractholder, interest credited to the contractholder account balance and contract charges assessed against the contractholder account balance. Premiums from these contracts are reported as contractholder fund deposits. Contract charges consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balance for the cost of insurance (mortality risk), contract administration and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates. These contract charges are recognized as revenue when assessed against the contractholder account balance. Contract benefits include life-contingent benefit payments in excess of the contractholder account balance. Contracts that do not subject the Company to significant risk arising from mortality or morbidity are referred to as investment contracts. Fixed annuities, including market value adjusted annuities, equity-indexed annuities and immediate annuities without life contingencies, are considered investment contracts. Consideration received for such contracts is reported as contractholder fund deposits. Contract charges for investment contracts consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balance for maintenance, administration and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates, and are recognized when assessed against the contractholder account balance. Interest credited to contractholder funds represents interest accrued or paid on interest-sensitive life and investment contracts. Crediting rates for certain fixed annuities and interest-sensitive life contracts are adjusted periodically by the Company to reflect current market conditions subject to contractually guaranteed minimum rates. Crediting rates for indexed life and annuities and indexed funding agreements are generally based on a specified interest rate index or an equity index, such as the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (“S&P 500”). Interest credited also includes amortization of DSI expenses. DSI is amortized into interest credited using the same method used to amortize DAC. Contract charges for variable life and variable annuity products consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balances for contract maintenance, administration, mortality, expense and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates. Contract benefits incurred for variable annuity products include guaranteed minimum death, income, withdrawal and accumulation benefits. Substantially all of the Company’s variable annuity business is ceded through reinsurance agreements and the contract charges and contract benefits related thereto are reported net of reinsurance ceded. Other revenue presentation Concurrent with the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) guidance on revenue from contracts with customers and the Company’s objective of providing more information related to revenues for our Service Businesses, the Company revised the presentation of total revenue to include other revenue. Previously, components of other revenue were presented within operating costs and expenses and primarily represented fees collected from policyholders relating to premium installment payments, commissions on sales of non-proprietary products, fee-based services and other revenue transactions. Other revenue is recognized when performance obligations are fulfilled. Prior periods have been reclassified to conform to current separate presentation of other revenue. Deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement costs Costs that are related directly to the successful acquisition of new or renewal insurance policies and investment contracts are deferred and recorded as DAC. These costs are principally agency’s and brokers’ remuneration, premium taxes and certain underwriting expenses. DSI costs, which are deferred and recorded as other assets, relate to sales inducements offered on sales to new customers, principally on fixed annuity and interest-sensitive life contracts. These sales inducements are primarily in the form of additional credits to the customer’s account balance or enhancements to interest credited for a specified period which are in excess of the rates currently being credited to similar contracts without sales inducements. DSI is amortized into income using the same methodology and assumptions as DAC and is included in interest credited to contractholder funds. All other acquisition costs are expensed as incurred and included in operating costs and expenses. For property and casualty insurance, DAC is amortized into income as premiums are earned, typically over periods of six or twelve months for personal lines policies or generally one to five years for protection plans and other contracts (primarily related to finance and insurance products), and is included in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs. DAC associated with property and casualty insurance is periodically reviewed for recoverability and adjusted if necessary. Future investment income is considered in determining the recoverability of DAC. For traditional life and voluntary accident and health insurance, DAC is amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies in proportion to the estimated revenues on such business. Assumptions used in the amortization of DAC and reserve calculations are established at the time the policy is issued and are generally not revised during the life of the policy. Any deviations from projected business in force resulting from actual policy terminations differing from expected levels and any estimated premium deficiencies may result in a change to the rate of amortization in the period such events occur. Generally, the amortization periods for these policies approximates the estimated lives of the policies. The Company periodically reviews the recoverability of DAC for these policies using actual experience and current assumptions. Prior to fourth quarter 2017, the Company evaluated traditional life insurance products and immediate annuities with life contingencies on an aggregate basis. In conjunction with the segment changes that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2017, traditional life insurance products, immediate annuities with life contingencies, and voluntary accident and health insurance products are reviewed individually. If actual experience and current assumptions are adverse compared to the original assumptions and a premium deficiency is determined to exist, any remaining unamortized DAC balance would be expensed to the extent not recoverable and the establishment of a premium deficiency reserve may be required. For interest-sensitive life insurance, DAC and DSI are amortized in proportion to the incidence of the total present value of gross profits, which includes both actual historical gross profits (“AGP”) and estimated future gross profits (“EGP”) expected to be earned over the estimated lives of the contracts. The amortization is net of interest on the prior period DAC balance using rates established at the inception of the contracts. Actual amortization periods generally range from 15 - 30 years; however, incorporating estimates of the rate of customer surrenders, partial withdrawals and deaths generally results in the majority of the DAC being amortized during the surrender charge period, which is typically 10 - 20 years for interest-sensitive life. The rate of DAC and DSI amortization is reestimated and adjusted by a cumulative charge or credit to income when there is a difference between the incidence of actual versus expected gross profits in a reporting period or when there is a change in total EGP. When DAC or DSI amortization or a component of gross profits for a quarterly period is potentially negative (which would result in an increase of the DAC or DSI balance) as a result of negative AGP, the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the potential negative amortization are considered to determine whether it is appropriate for recognition in the consolidated financial statements. Negative amortization is only recorded when the increased DAC or DSI balance is determined to be recoverable based on facts and circumstances. Recapitalization of DAC and DSI is limited to the originally deferred costs plus interest. AGP and EGP primarily consist of the following components: contract charges for the cost of insurance less mortality costs and other benefits; investment income and realized capital gains and losses less interest credited; and surrender and other contract charges less maintenance expenses. The principal assumptions for determining the amount of EGP are mortality, persistency, expenses, investment returns, including capital gains and losses on assets supporting contract liabilities, interest crediting rates to contractholders, and the effects of any hedges. For products whose supporting investments are exposed to capital losses in excess of the Company’s expectations which may cause periodic AGP to become temporarily negative, EGP and AGP utilized in DAC and DSI amortization may be modified to exclude the excess capital losses. The Company performs quarterly reviews of DAC and DSI recoverability for interest-sensitive life and fixed annuity contracts using current assumptions. If a change in the amount of EGP is significant, it could result in the unamortized DAC or DSI not being recoverable, resulting in a charge which is included as a component of amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs or interest credited to contractholder funds, respectively. The DAC and DSI balances presented include adjustments to reflect the amount by which the amortization of DAC and DSI would increase or decrease if the unrealized capital gains or losses in the respective product investment portfolios were actually realized. The adjustments are recorded net of tax in AOCI. DAC, DSI and deferred income taxes determined on unrealized capital gains and losses and reported in AOCI recognize the impact on shareholders’ equity consistently with the amounts that would be recognized in the income statement on realized capital gains and losses. Customers of the Company may exchange one insurance policy or investment contract for another offered by the Company, or make modifications to an existing investment, life or property and casualty contract issued by the Company. These transactions are identified as internal replacements for accounting purposes. Internal replacement transactions determined to result in replacement contracts that are substantially unchanged from the replaced contracts are accounted for as continuations of the replaced contracts. Unamortized DAC and DSI related to the replaced contracts continue to be deferred and amortized in connection with the replacement contracts. For interest-sensitive life and investment contracts, the EGP of the replacement contracts are treated as a revision to the EGP of the replaced contracts in the determination of amortization of DAC and DSI. For traditional life and property and casualty insurance policies, any changes to unamortized DAC that result from replacement contracts are treated as prospective revisions. Any costs associated with the issuance of replacement contracts are characterized as maintenance costs and expensed as incurred. Internal replacement transactions determined to result in a substantial change to the replaced contracts are accounted for as an extinguishment of the replaced contracts, and any unamortized DAC and DSI related to the replaced contracts are eliminated with a corresponding charge to amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs or interest credited to contractholder funds, respectively. The costs assigned to the right to receive future cash flows from certain business purchased from other insurers are also classified as DAC in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The costs capitalized represent the present value of future profits expected to be earned over the lives of the contracts acquired. These costs are amortized as profits emerge over the lives of the acquired business and are periodically evaluated for recoverability. The present value of future profits was $45 million and $47 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Amortization expense of the present value of future profits was $2 million , $6 million and $5 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Reinsurance and Indemnification Reinsurance In the normal course of business, the Company seeks to limit aggregate and single exposure to losses on large risks by purchasing reinsurance. The Company has also used reinsurance to effect the disposition of certain blocks of business. Reinsurance does not extinguish the Company’s primary liability under the policies written. Therefore, the Company regularly evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers, including their activities with respect to claim settlement practices and commutations, and establishes allowances for uncollectible reinsurance as appropriate. Indemnification The Company also participates in various indemnification mechanisms, including industry pools and facilities, which are backed by the financial resources of the property and casualty insurance company market participants. Indemnification recoverables are considered collectible based on the industry pool and facility enabling legislation. The amounts reported as reinsurance and indemnification recoverables include amounts billed to reinsurers and indemnitors on losses paid as well as estimates of amounts expected to be recovered from reinsurers and indemnitors on insurance liabilities and contractholder funds that have not yet been paid. Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables on unpaid losses are estimated based upon assumptions consistent with those used in establishing the liabilities related to the underlying contracts. Insurance liabilities are reported gross of reinsurance and indemnification recoverables. Reinsurance and indemnification premiums are generally reflected in income in a manner consistent with the recognition of premiums on the associated contracts. For catastrophe coverage, the cost of reinsurance premiums is recognized ratably over the contract period to the extent coverage remains available. Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of amounts paid for acquirin g businesses over the fair value of the net assets acquired, less any impairment of goodwill recognized. The Company’s goodwill reporting units are equivalent to its reportable segments, Allstate Protection, Service Businesses, Allstate Life and Allstate Benefits to which goodwill has been assigned. Goodwill by reporting unit As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Allstate Protection $ 810 $ 810 Service Businesses 1,449 1,100 Allstate Life 175 175 Allstate Benefits 96 96 Total $ 2,530 $ 2,181 Goodwill is recognized when acquired and allocated to reporting units based on which unit is expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually. The Company performs its annual goodwill impairment testing during the fourth quarter of each year based upon data as of the close of the third quarter. G oodwill impairment is measured a

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Note 3 Acquisitions InfoArmor On October 5, 2018, the Company acquired InfoArmor, Inc. (“InfoArmor”), a leading provider of identity protection in the employee benefits market, for $525 million in cash. InfoArmor primarily offers identity protection to employees and their family members through voluntary benefit programs at over 1,400 firms, including more than 100 of the Fortune 500 companies. Starting in the fourth quarter of 2018, the Service Businesses segment includes the results of InfoArmor. In connection with the InfoArmor acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill of $318 million and intangible assets of $257 million . The intangible assets include $225 million and $32 million related to the acquired customer relationships and technology, respectively. PlumChoice On November 30, 2018, the Company acquired PlumChoice, Inc. (“PlumChoice”) for $30 million in cash to provide technical support services to SquareTrade’s customers and small businesses. In conjunction with the PlumChoice acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill of $23 million . SquareTrade On January 3, 2017, the Company acquired SquareTrade, a consumer product protection plan provider that distributes through many of America’s major retailers and Europe’s mobile operators, for $1.40 billion in cash. SquareTrade provides protection plans covering a variety of consumer products including TVs, smartphones and computers. This acquisition broadened Allstate’s unique product offerings to better meet consumers’ needs. In connection with the SquareTrade acquisition, the Company recorded goodwill of $1.10 billion , commissions paid to retailers (reported in deferred policy acquisition costs) of $66 million , intangible assets (reported in other assets) of $555 million , contractual liability insurance policy premium expenses (reported in other assets) of $205 million , unearned premiums of $389 million , and net deferred income tax liability of $138 million . These amounts reflect re-measurement adjustments to the fair value of the opening balance sheet assets and liabilities. Of the $555 million assigned to intangible assets, $465 million was attributable to acquired customer relationships. Intangible assets also included $69 million assigned to the SquareTrade trade name which is considered to have an indefinite useful life. The amortization expense of intangible assets in 2018 and 2017 were $94 million and $92 million , respectively. Amortization expense of intangible assets for the next five years and thereafter ($ in millions) InfoArmor SquareTrade 2019 $ 50 $ 72 2020 44 62 2021 38 52 2022 31 42 2023 25 34 Thereafter 56 50 Total amortization $ 244 $ 312 Customer relationship valuation methodology The value of the customer relationships intangible asset was determined using an income approach that considered cash flows and profits expected to be generated by the acquired relationships, a discount rate reflecting the relative risk of achieving the anticipated cash flows and profits, the time value of money, and other factors.

Reporting Segments

Reporting Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reporting Segments	Note 4 Reportable Segments The Company’s chief operating decision maker reviews financial performance and makes decisions about the allocation of resources based on the following seven reportable segments: Allstate Protection, Discontinued Lines and Coverages, Service Businesses, Allstate Life, Allstate Benefits, Allstate Annuities, and Corporate and Other. These segments are described below and align with the Company’s key product and service offerings. Allstate Protection principally offers private passenger auto and homeowners insurance in the United States and Canada, with earned premiums accounting for 83% of Allstate’s 2018 consolidated revenues. Allstate Protection is authorized to sell certain property and casualty products in all 50 states, the District of Columbia (“D.C.”), Puerto Rico and Canada. For 2018 , the top U.S. geographic locations for premiums earned by the Allstate Protection segment were Texas, California, New York and Florida. No other jurisdiction accounted for more than 5% of premium earned for Allstate Protection. Revenues from external customers generated outside the United States were $1.20 billion , $1.13 billion and $1.08 billion in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Discontinued Lines and Coverages includes property and casualty insurance coverage that primarily relates to policies written during the 1960s through the mid-1980s. Our exposure to asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines claims arises principally from direct excess commercial insurance, assumed reinsurance coverage, direct primary commercial insurance and other businesses in run-off. Service Businesses comprise SquareTrade, Arity, InfoArmor, Allstate Roadside Services and Allstate Dealer Services and offer consumer product protection plans, device and mobile data collection services and analytic solutions , identity protection, roadside assistance, and finance and insurance products (including vehicle service contracts, guaranteed asset protection waivers, road hazard tire and wheel and paintless dent repair protection). The Service Businesses primarily operate in the U.S., with certain businesses offering services in Europe, Canada and Puerto Rico. Revenues from external customers generated outside the United States relate to consumer product protection plans sold primarily in the European Union and were $61 million and $35 million in 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Allstate Life offers traditional, interest-sensitive and variable life insurance products. Allstate Life is authorized to sell life insurance products in all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. For 2018 , the top geographic locations for statutory direct life insurance premiums were New York, California, Texas, Florida and Illinois. No other jurisdiction accounted for more than 5% of statutory direct life insurance premiums. Allstate Benefits offers voluntary benefits products, including life, accident, critical illness, short-term disability and other health products. Allstate Benefits is authorized to sell its products in all 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and Canada. For 2018 , the top geographic locations for statutory direct accident and health insurance premiums were Florida, Texas, North Carolina and New York. No other jurisdiction accounted for more than 5% of statutory direct accident and health insurance premiums. Revenues from external customers generated outside the United States relate to voluntary accident and health insurance sold in Canada and were not material. Allstate Annuities consists primarily of deferred fixed annuities and immediate annuities (including standard and sub-standard structured settlements). This segment is in run-off. The Company also previously offered institutional products consisting of funding agreements sold to unaffiliated trusts that used them to back medium-term notes. There were no institutional products outstanding as of December 31, 2018 or 2017 . Corporate and Other comprises holding company activities and certain non-insurance operations, including expenses associated with strategic initiatives. Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments comprise Property-Liability. The Company does not allocate investment income, realized capital gains and losses, or assets to the Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments. Management reviews assets at the Property-Liability, Service Businesses, Allstate Life, Allstate Benefits, Allstate Annuities, and Corporate and Other levels for decision-making purposes. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 2. The effects of intersegment transactions are eliminated in the segment results, except for services provided by Service Businesses to Allstate Protection that are not eliminated as management considers those transactions in assessing the results of the respective segments. Change in accounting principle As discussed in Note 2, the Company changed its accounting principle for recognizing actuarial gains and losses and expected return on plan assets for its pension and other postretirement plans to a more preferable policy under U.S. GAAP. Under the new principle, remeasurement of projected benefit obligation and plan assets are immediately recognized through earnings and are referred to as pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations . This change has been applied on a retrospective basis . See Note 2 for further information regarding the impact of the change in accounting principle on the consolidated financial statements. Measuring segment profit or loss The measure of segment profit or loss used in evaluating performance is underwriting income for the Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments and adjusted net income for the Service Businesses, Allstate Life, Allstate Benefits, Allstate Annuities, and Corporate and Other segments. A reconciliation of these measures to net income applicable to common shareholders is provided below. Underwriting income is calculated as premiums earned and other revenue, less claims and claims expenses (“losses”), amortization of DAC, operating costs and expenses, and restructuring and related charges as determined using GAAP. Adjusted net income is net income applicable to common shareholders, excluding: • Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax, except for periodic settlements and accruals on non-hedge derivative instruments, which are reported with realized capital gains and losses but included in adjusted net income • Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses, after-tax • Valuation changes on embedded derivatives not hedged, after-tax • Amortization of DAC and DSI, to the extent they resulted from the recognition of certain realized capital gains and losses or valuation changes on embedded derivatives not hedged, after-tax • Business combination expenses and the amortization of purchased intangible assets, after-tax • Gain (loss) on disposition of operations, after-tax • Adjustments for other significant non-recurring, infrequent or unusual items, when (a) the nature of the charge or gain is such that it is reasonably unlikely to recur within two years, or (b) there has been no similar charge or gain within the prior two years Reportable segments revenue information For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability Insurance premiums Auto $ 22,970 $ 21,878 $ 21,264 Homeowners 7,517 7,310 7,257 Other personal lines 1,808 1,750 1,700 Commercial lines 655 495 506 Allstate Protection 32,950 31,433 30,727 Discontinued Lines and Coverages — — — Total Property-Liability insurance premiums 32,950 31,433 30,727 Other revenue 738 703 688 Net investment income 1,464 1,478 1,253 Realized capital gains and losses (639 ) 401 (6 ) Total Property-Liability 34,513 34,015 32,662 Service Businesses Consumer product protection plans 503 295 — Roadside assistance 263 268 310 Finance and insurance products 332 304 270 Intersegment premiums and service fees (1) 122 110 105 Other revenue 82 66 64 Net investment income 27 16 13 Realized capital gains and losses (11 ) — — Total Service Businesses 1,318 1,059 762 Allstate Life Traditional life insurance premiums 600 568 533 Accident and health insurance premiums 2 2 2 Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges 713 710 715 Other revenue 119 114 113 Net investment income 505 489 482 Realized capital gains and losses (14 ) 5 (38 ) Total Allstate Life 1,925 1,888 1,807 Allstate Benefits Traditional life insurance premiums 44 42 40 Accident and health insurance premiums 980 928 857 Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges 111 114 114 Net investment income 77 72 71 Realized capital gains and losses (9 ) 1 (5 ) Total Allstate Benefits 1,203 1,157 1,077 Allstate Annuities Fixed annuities contract charges 15 14 14 Net investment income 1,096 1,305 1,181 Realized capital gains and losses (166 ) 44 (38 ) Total Allstate Annuities 945 1,363 1,157 Corporate and Other Net investment income 71 41 42 Realized capital gains and losses (38 ) (6 ) (3 ) Total Corporate and Other 33 35 39 Intersegment eliminations (1) (122 ) (110 ) (105 ) Consolidated revenues $ 39,815 $ 39,407 $ 37,399 (1) Intersegment insurance premiums and service fees are primarily related to Arity and Allstate Roadside Services and are eliminated in the consolidated financial statements. Reportable segments financial performance For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability Allstate Protection $ 2,343 $ 2,304 $ 1,477 Discontinued Lines and Coverages (90 ) (99 ) (107 ) Total underwriting income 2,253 2,205 1,370 Net investment income 1,464 1,478 1,253 Income tax expense on operations (747 ) (1,187 ) (865 ) Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (500 ) 272 — Gain on disposition of operations, after-tax — 9 — Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (5 ) 36 — Property-Liability net income applicable to common shareholders 2,465 2,813 1,758 Service Businesses Adjusted net income (loss) 8 (54 ) 5 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (9 ) — — Amortization of purchased intangible assets, after-tax (74 ) (60 ) — Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (4 ) 137 — Service Businesses net (loss) income applicable to common shareholders (79 ) 23 5 Allstate Life Adjusted net income 295 259 251 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (11 ) 2 (24 ) DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (8 ) (10 ) (4 ) Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (16 ) 338 — Allstate Life net income applicable to common shareholders 260 589 223 Allstate Benefits Adjusted net income 124 100 103 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (7 ) — (4 ) DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses, after-tax 1 — — Tax Legislation benefit — 54 — Allstate Benefits net income applicable to common shareholders 118 154 99 Allstate Annuities Adjusted net income 131 205 102 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (131 ) 28 (26 ) Valuation changes on embedded derivatives not hedged, after-tax 3 — (2 ) Gain on disposition of operations, after-tax 4 4 3 Tax Legislation benefit 69 182 — Allstate Annuities net income applicable to common shareholders 76 419 77 Corporate and Other Adjusted net loss (406 ) (320 ) (293 ) Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (30 ) (4 ) (2 ) Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses, after-tax (370 ) 141 (175 ) Goodwill impairment — (125 ) — Business combination expenses, after-tax (7 ) (14 ) — Tax Legislation expense (15 ) (238 ) — Corporate and Other net loss applicable to common shareholders (828 ) (560 ) (470 ) Consolidated net income applicable to common shareholders $ 2,012 $ 3,438 $ 1,692 Additional significant financial performance data For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Amortization of DAC Property-Liability $ 4,475 $ 4,205 $ 4,053 Service Businesses 463 296 214 Allstate Life 132 134 131 Allstate Benefits 145 142 145 Allstate Annuities 7 7 7 Consolidated $ 5,222 $ 4,784 $ 4,550 Income tax expense (benefit) Property-Liability $ 613 $ 1,285 $ 859 Service Businesses (19 ) (194 ) 2 Allstate Life 75 (226 ) 94 Allstate Benefits 32 1 52 Allstate Annuities (66 ) (58 ) 36 Corporate and Other (167 ) 187 (201 ) Consolidated $ 468 $ 995 $ 842 Impacts of Tax Legislation Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation Tax Legislation expense (benefit) Income tax expense (benefit) after Tax Legislation For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Income tax expense (benefit) Property-Liability $ 608 $ 1,321 $ 5 $ (36 ) $ 613 $ 1,285 Service Businesses (23 ) (57 ) 4 (137 ) (19 ) (194 ) Allstate Life 59 112 16 (338 ) 75 (226 ) Allstate Benefits 32 55 — (54 ) 32 1 Allstate Annuities 3 124 (69 ) (182 ) (66 ) (58 ) Corporate and Other (182 ) (51 ) 15 238 (167 ) 187 Consolidated $ 497 $ 1,504 $ (29 ) $ (509 ) $ 468 $ 995 Interest expense is primarily incurred in the Corporate and Other segment. Capital expenditures for long-lived assets are generally made in Property-Liability as the Company does not allocate assets to the Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments. A portion of these long-lived assets are used by entities included in the Service Businesses, Allstate Life, Allstate Benefits, Allstate Annuities and Corporate and Other segments and, accordingly, are charged to expenses in proportion to their use. Reportable segment total assets and investments (1) As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Assets Property-Liability $ 61,947 $ 60,197 Service Businesses 5,473 4,531 Allstate Life 13,613 14,107 Allstate Benefits 2,822 2,766 Allstate Annuities 26,798 28,836 Corporate and Other 1,596 1,985 Consolidated $ 112,249 $ 112,422 ​ ​ Investments Property-Liability $ 43,634 $ 43,183 Service Businesses 1,203 954 Allstate Life 10,809 11,210 Allstate Benefits 1,809 1,776 Allstate Annuities 22,336 23,722 Corporate and Other 1,469 1,958 Consolidated $ 81,260 $ 82,803 (1) The balances reflect the elimination of related party investments between segments.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	Note 5 Investments Amortized cost, gross unrealized gains (losses) and fair value for fixed income securities Amortized cost Gross unrealized Fair value ($ in millions) Gains Losses December 31, 2018 U.S. government and agencies $ 5,386 $ 137 $ (6 ) $ 5,517 Municipal 8,963 249 (43 ) 9,169 Corporate 40,536 490 (890 ) 40,136 Foreign government 739 13 (5 ) 747 ABS 1,049 6 (10 ) 1,045 RMBS 377 89 (2 ) 464 CMBS 63 8 (1 ) 70 Redeemable preferred stock 21 1 — 22 Total fixed income securities $ 57,134 $ 993 $ (957 ) $ 57,170 December 31, 2017 U.S. government and agencies $ 3,580 $ 56 $ (20 ) $ 3,616 Municipal 8,053 311 (36 ) 8,328 Corporate 42,996 1,234 (204 ) 44,026 Foreign government 1,005 27 (11 ) 1,021 ABS 1,266 13 (7 ) 1,272 RMBS 480 101 (3 ) 578 CMBS 124 6 (2 ) 128 Redeemable preferred stock 21 2 — 23 Total fixed income securities $ 57,525 $ 1,750 $ (283 ) $ 58,992 Scheduled maturities for fixed income securities As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Amortized cost Fair value Due in one year or less $ 3,344 $ 3,348 Due after one year through five years 27,862 27,742 Due after five years through ten years 17,033 16,773 Due after ten years 7,406 7,728 55,645 55,591 ABS, RMBS and CMBS 1,489 1,579 Total $ 57,134 $ 57,170 Actual maturities may differ from those scheduled as a result of calls and make-whole payments by the issuers. ABS, RMBS and CMBS are shown separately because of the potential for prepayment of principal prior to contractual maturity dates. Net investment income For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ 2,077 $ 2,078 $ 2,060 Equity securities 170 174 137 Mortgage loans 217 206 217 Limited partnership interests (1)(2) 705 889 561 Short-term investments 73 30 16 Other 272 236 222 Investment income, before expense 3,514 3,613 3,213 Investment expense (274 ) (212 ) (171 ) Net investment income $ 3,240 $ 3,401 $ 3,042 (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, limited partnerships previously reported using the cost method are now reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net investment income. (2) Includes net investment income of $451 million for EMA limited partnership interests and $254 million for limited partnership interests carried at fair value for 2018 . Realized capital gains (losses) by asset type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ (237 ) $ 94 $ (91 ) Equity securities (594 ) 255 23 Mortgage loans 2 1 — Limited partnership interests (101 ) 132 (21 ) Derivatives 46 (46 ) 3 Other 7 9 (4 ) Realized capital gains and losses $ (877 ) $ 445 $ (90 ) Realized capital gains (losses) by transaction type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Impairment write-downs (1) $ (14 ) $ (102 ) $ (234 ) Change in intent write-downs (1) — (48 ) (69 ) Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings (14 ) (150 ) (303 ) Sales (1) (215 ) 641 213 Valuation of equity investments (1) (2) (691 ) — — Valuation and settlements of derivative instruments 43 (46 ) — Realized capital gains and losses $ (877 ) $ 445 $ (90 ) (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, equity securities are reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in valuation of equity investments and are no longer included in impairment write-downs, change in intent write-downs and sales. (2) Includes valuation of equity securities and certain limited partnership interests where the underlying assets are predominately public equity securities. Gross gains of $120 million and gross losses of $347 million were realized on sales of fixed income securities during 2018 . Gross gains of $737 million and $631 million and gross losses of $276 million and $461 million were realized on sales of fixed income and equity securities during 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The following table presents the net pre-tax appreciation (decline) during 2018 of equity securities and limited partnership interests carried at fair value still held as of December 31, 2018, recognized in net income. Net appreciation (decline) recognized in net income For the year ended ($ in millions) December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ (261 ) Limited partnership interests carried at fair value 249 Total $ (12 ) OTTI losses by asset type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Gross Included in OCI Net Gross Included in OCI Net Gross Included in OCI Net Fixed income securities: Municipal $ — $ — $ — $ (1 ) $ (3 ) $ (4 ) $ — $ — $ — Corporate (4 ) 2 (2 ) (9 ) 3 (6 ) (33 ) 9 (24 ) ABS (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (6 ) — (6 ) RMBS (1 ) — (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (5 ) — (1 ) (1 ) CMBS (3 ) (1 ) (4 ) (9 ) 1 (8 ) (15 ) 2 (13 ) Total fixed income securities (9 ) (1 ) (10 ) (22 ) (4 ) (26 ) (54 ) 10 (44 ) Equity securities (1) — — — (86 ) — (86 ) (194 ) — (194 ) Mortgage loans — — — (1 ) — (1 ) — — — Limited partnership interests (1) (3 ) — (3 ) (32 ) — (32 ) (56 ) — (56 ) Other (1 ) — (1 ) (5 ) — (5 ) (9 ) — (9 ) OTTI losses $ (13 ) $ (1 ) $ (14 ) $ (146 ) $ (4 ) $ (150 ) $ (313 ) $ 10 $ (303 ) (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, equity securities and limited partnerships previously reported using the cost method are now reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income and are no longer included in the table above. OTTI losses included in AOCI at the time of impairment for fixed income securities which were not included in earnings ($ in millions) December 31, December 31, Municipal $ (5 ) $ (5 ) Corporate (2 ) — ABS (10 ) (15 ) RMBS (67 ) (77 ) CMBS (2 ) (4 ) Total $ (86 ) $ (101 ) The amounts exclude $180 million and $208 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, of net unrealized gains related to changes in valuation of the fixed income securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date. Rollforward of the cumulative credit losses recognized in earnings for fixed income securities held As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ (226 ) $ (318 ) $ (392 ) Additional credit loss for securities previously other-than-temporarily impaired (7 ) (18 ) (21 ) Additional credit loss for securities not previously other-than-temporarily impaired (3 ) (8 ) (23 ) Reduction in credit loss for securities disposed or collected 30 116 117 Change in credit loss due to accretion of increase in cash flows 2 2 1 Ending balance $ (204 ) $ (226 ) $ (318 ) The Company uses its best estimate of future cash flows expected to be collected from the fixed income security, discounted at the security’s original or current effective rate, as appropriate, to calculate a recovery value and determine whether a credit loss exists. The determination of cash flow estimates is inherently subjective and methodologies may vary depending on facts and circumstances specific to the security. All reasonably available information relevant to the collectability of the security, including past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable assumptions and forecasts, are considered when developing the estimate of cash flows expected to be collected. That information generally includes, but is not limited to, the remaining payment terms of the security, prepayment speeds, foreign exchange rates, the financial condition and future earnings potential of the issue or issuer, expected defaults, expected recoveries, the value of underlying collateral, vintage, geographic concentration of underlying collateral, available reserves or escrows, current subordination levels, third party guarantees and other credit enhancements. Other information, such as industry analyst reports and forecasts, sector credit ratings, financial condition of the bond insurer for insured fixed income securities, and other market data relevant to the realizability of contractual cash flows, may also be considered. The estimated fair value of collateral will be used to estimate recovery value if the Company determines that the security is dependent on the liquidation of collateral for ultimate settlement. If the estimated recovery value is less than the amortized cost of the security, a credit loss exists and an OTTI for the difference between the estimated recovery value and amortized cost is recorded in earnings. The portion of the unrealized loss related to factors other than credit remains classified in AOCI. If the Company determines that the fixed income security does not have sufficient cash flow or other information to estimate a recovery value for the security, the Company may conclude that the entire decline in fair value is deemed to be credit related and the loss is recorded in earnings. Unrealized net capital gains and losses included in AOCI ($ in millions) Fair value Gross unrealized Unrealized net gains (losses) December 31, 2018 Gains Losses Fixed income securities $ 57,170 $ 993 $ (957 ) $ 36 Short-term investments 3,027 — — — Derivative instruments — — (3 ) (3 ) EMA limited partnerships (1) — Unrealized net capital gains and losses, pre-tax 33 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves (2) — DAC and DSI (3) (33 ) Amounts recognized (33 ) Deferred income taxes (2 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ (2 ) (1) Unrealized net capital gains and losses for limited partnership interests represent the Company’s share of EMA limited partnerships’ OCI. Fair value and gross unrealized gains and losses are not applicable. (2) The insurance reserves adjustment represents the amount by which the reserve balance would increase if the net unrealized gains in the applicable product portfolios were realized and reinvested at lower interest rates, resulting in a premium deficiency. This adjustment primarily relates to structured settlement annuities with life contingencies (a type of immediate fixed annuities). (3) The DAC and DSI adjustment balance represents the amount by which the amortization of DAC and DSI would increase or decrease if the unrealized gains or losses in the respective product portfolios were realized. Unrealized net capital gains and losses included in AOCI ($ in millions) Fair value Gross unrealized Unrealized net gains (losses) December 31, 2017 Gains Losses Fixed income securities $ 58,992 $ 1,750 $ (283 ) $ 1,467 Equity securities 6,621 1,172 (12 ) 1,160 Short-term investments 1,944 — — — Derivative instruments (1) 2 2 (3 ) (1 ) EMA limited partnerships 1 Unrealized net capital gains and losses, pre-tax 2,627 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves (315 ) DAC and DSI (196 ) Amounts recognized (511 ) Deferred income taxes (454 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ 1,662 (1) Included in the fair value of derivative instruments is $2 million classified as liabilities. Change in unrealized net capital gains (losses) For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ (1,431 ) $ 204 $ 516 Equity securities (1) — 651 233 Derivative instruments (2 ) (3 ) (4 ) EMA limited partnerships (1 ) 5 — Total (1,434 ) 857 745 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves 315 (315 ) — DAC and DSI 163 (50 ) (79 ) Amounts recognized 478 (365 ) (79 ) Deferred income taxes 202 117 (233 ) (Decrease) increase in unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ (754 ) $ 609 $ 433 (1) Upon adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard on January 1, 2018, $1.16 billion of pre-tax unrealized net capital gains for equity securities were reclassified from AOCI to retained income. See Note 2 for further details. Portfolio monitoring The Company has a comprehensive portfolio monitoring process to identify and evaluate each fixed income security whose carrying value may be other-than-temporarily impaired. For each fixed income security in an unrealized loss position, the Company assesses whether management with the appropriate authority has made the decision to sell or whether it is more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the security before recovery of the amortized cost basis for reasons such as liquidity, contractual or regulatory purposes. If a security meets either of these criteria, the security’s decline in fair value is considered other than temporary and is recorded in earnings. If the Company has not made the decision to sell the fixed income security and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell the fixed income security before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the Company evaluates whether it expects to receive cash flows sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. The Company calculates the estimated recovery value by discounting the best estimate of future cash flows at the security’s original or current effective rate, as appropriate, and compares this to the amortized cost of the security. If the Company does not expect to receive cash flows sufficient to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the fixed income security, the credit loss component of the impairment is recorded in earnings, with the remaining amount of the unrealized loss related to other factors recognized in OCI. The Company’s portfolio monitoring process includes a quarterly review of all securities to identify instances where the fair value of a security compared to its amortized cost is below established thresholds. The process also includes the monitoring of other impairment indicators such as ratings, ratings downgrades and payment defaults. The securities identified, in addition to other securities for which the Company may have a concern, are evaluated for potential OTTI using all reasonably available information relevant to the collectability or recovery of the security. Inherent in the Company’s evaluation of OTTI for these securities are assumptions and estimates about the financial condition and future earnings potential of the issue or issuer. Some of the factors that may be considered in evaluating whether a decline in fair value is other than temporary are: 1) the financial condition, near-term and long-term prospects of the issue or issuer, including relevant industry specific market conditions and trends, geographic location and implications of rating agency actions and offering prices; 2) the specific reasons that a security is in an unrealized loss position, including overall market conditions which could affect liquidity; and 3) the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost. Gross unrealized losses and fair value by type and length of time held in a continuous unrealized loss position ($ in millions) Less than 12 months 12 months or more Number of issues Fair value Unrealized losses Number of issues Fair value Unrealized losses Total unrealized losses December 31, 2018 Fixed income securities U.S. government and agencies 11 $ 55 $ — 38 $ 364 $ (6 ) $ (6 ) Municipal 943 1,633 (10 ) 1,147 1,554 (33 ) (43 ) Corporate 1,735 19,243 (543 ) 645 8,374 (347 ) (890 ) Foreign government 7 20 (1 ) 27 412 (4 ) (5 ) ABS 64 454 (5 ) 28 161 (5 ) (10 ) RMBS 166 30 — 195 52 (2 ) (2 ) CMBS 3 7 — 2 — (1 ) (1 ) Redeemable preferred stock 1 — — — — — — Total fixed income securities 2,930 $ 21,442 $ (559 ) 2,082 $ 10,917 $ (398 ) $ (957 ) Investment grade fixed income securities 2,348 $ 17,485 $ (331 ) 2,021 $ 10,626 $ (360 ) $ (691 ) Below investment grade fixed income securities 582 3,957 (228 ) 61 291 (38 ) (266 ) Total fixed income securities 2,930 $ 21,442 $ (559 ) 2,082 $ 10,917 $ (398 ) $ (957 ) December 31, 2017 Fixed income securities U.S. government and agencies 66 $ 2,829 $ (18 ) 18 $ 182 $ (2 ) $ (20 ) Municipal 1,756 3,143 (24 ) 165 349 (12 ) (36 ) Corporate 781 11,616 (102 ) 208 3,289 (102 ) (204 ) Foreign government 45 580 (10 ) 5 44 (1 ) (11 ) ABS 57 476 (3 ) 9 34 (4 ) (7 ) RMBS 118 35 (1 ) 181 50 (2 ) (3 ) CMBS 2 1 — 6 23 (2 ) (2 ) Redeemable preferred stock 1 — — — — — — Total fixed income securities 2,826 18,680 (158 ) 592 3,971 (125 ) (283 ) Equity securities 127 369 (12 ) 2 — — (12 ) Total fixed income and equity securities 2,953 $ 19,049 $ (170 ) 594 $ 3,971 $ (125 ) $ (295 ) Investment grade fixed income securities 2,706 $ 17,668 $ (134 ) 535 $ 3,751 $ (98 ) $ (232 ) Below investment grade fixed income securities 120 1,012 (24 ) 57 220 (27 ) (51 ) Total fixed income securities 2,826 $ 18,680 $ (158 ) 592 $ 3,971 $ (125 ) $ (283 ) As of December 31, 2018 , $902 million of the $957 million unrealized losses are related to securities with an unrealized loss position less than 20% of amortized cost, the degree of which suggests that these securities do not pose a high risk of being other-than-temporarily impaired. Of the $902 million , $673 million are related to unrealized losses on investment grade fixed income securities. Of the remaining $229 million , $207 million have been in an unrealized loss position for less than 12 months. Investment grade is defined as a security having a rating of Aaa, Aa, A or Baa from Moody’s, a rating of AAA, AA, A or BBB from S&P Global Ratings (“S&P”), a comparable rating from another nationally recognized rating agency, or a comparable internal rating if an externally provided rating is not available. Market prices for certain securities may have credit spreads which imply higher or lower credit quality than the current third party rating. Unrealized losses on investment grade securities are principally related to an increase in market yields which may include increased risk-free interest rates and/or wider credit spreads since the time of initial purchase. The unrealized losses are expected to reverse as the securities approach maturity. As of December 31, 2018 , the remaining $55 million of unrealized losses are related to securities in unrealized loss positions greater than or equal to 20% of amortized cost. Investment grade fixed income securities comprising $18 million of these unrealized losses were evaluated based on factors such as discounted cash flows and the financial condition and near-term and long-term prospects of the issue or issuer and were determined to have adequate resources to fulfill contractual obligations. Of the $55 million , $37 million are related to below investment grade fixed income securities. Of these amounts, $3 million are related to below investment grade fixed income securities that had been in an unrealized loss position greater than or equal to 20% of amortized cost for a period of twelve or more consecutive months as of December 31, 2018 . ABS, RMBS and CMBS in an unrealized loss position were evaluated based on actual and projected collateral losses relative to the securities’ positions in the respective securitization trusts, security specific expectations of cash flows, and credit ratings. This evaluation also takes into consideration credit enhancement, measured in terms of (i) subordination from other classes of securities in the trust that are contractually obligated to absorb losses before the class of security the Company owns, and (ii) the expected impact of other structural features embedded in the securitization trust beneficial to the class of securities the Company owns, such as overcollateralization and excess spread. Municipal bonds in an unrealized loss position were evaluated based on the underlying credit quality of the primary obligor, obligation type and quality of the underlying assets. As of December 31, 2018 , the Company has not made the decision to sell and it is not more likely than not the Company will be required to sell fixed income securities with unrealized losses before recovery of the amortized cost basis. Limited partnerships Investments in limited partnership interests include interests in private equity funds, real estate funds and other funds. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the carrying value of EMA limited partnerships totaled $5.73 billion and $5.41 billion , respectively, and limited partnerships carried at fair value as of December 31, 2018 , while at cost as of December 31, 2017 , totaled $1.78 billion and $1.33 billion , respectively. Principal factors influencing carrying value appreciation or decline include operating performance, comparable public company earnings multiples, capitalization rates and the economic environment. For equity method limited partnerships, the Company recognizes an impairment loss when evidence demonstrates that the loss is other than temporary. Evidence of a loss in value that is other than temporary may include the absence of an ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment or the inability of the investee to sustain a level of earnings that would justify the carrying amount of the investment. Changes in fair value limited partnerships are recorded through net investment income and therefore are not tested for impairment. Mortgage loans The Company’s mortgage loans are commercial mortgage loans collateralized by a variety of commercial real estate property types located across the United States and totaled, net of valuation allowance, $4.67 billion and $4.53 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Substantially all of the commercial mortgage loans are non-recourse to the borrower. Principal geographic distribution of commercial real estate exceeding 5% of the mortgage loans portfolio As of December 31, (% of mortgage loan portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 California 16.4 % 19.9 % Texas 14.9 13.0 Illinois 7.8 7.1 New Jersey 6.8 7.6 Florida 6.1 6.4 North Carolina 5.1 4.0 Types of properties collateralizing the mortgage loan portfolio As of December 31, (% of mortgage loan portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 Apartment complex 34.4 % 30.9 % Office buildings 24.5 23.8 Warehouse 15.8 15.7 Retail 14.4 18.0 Other 10.9 11.6 Total 100.0 % 100.0 % Contractual maturities of the mortgage loan portfolio As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Number of loans Carrying value Percent 2019 8 $ 171 3.7 % 2020 13 119 2.6 2021 41 566 12.1 2022 32 553 11.8 Thereafter 189 3,261 69.8 Total 283 $ 4,670 100.0 % Mortgage loans are evaluated for impairment on a specific loan basis through a quarterly credit monitoring process and review of key credit quality indicators. Mortgage loans are considered impaired when it is probable that the Company will not collect the contractual principal and interest. Valuation allowances are established for impaired loans to reduce the carrying value to the fair value of the collateral less costs to sell or the present value of the loan’s expected future repayment cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate. Impaired mortgage loans may not have a valuation allowance when the fair value of the collateral less costs to sell is higher than the carrying value. Valuation allowances are adjusted for subsequent changes in the fair value of the collateral less costs to sell or present value of the loan’s expected future repayment cash flows. Mortgage loans are charged off against their corresponding valuation allowances when there is no reasonable expectation of recovery. The impairment evaluation is non-statistical in respect to the aggregate portfolio but considers facts and circumstances attributable to each loan. It is not considered probable that additional impairment losses, beyond those identified on a specific loan basis, have been incurred as of December 31, 2018 . Accrual of income is suspended for mortgage loans that are in default or when full and timely collection of principal and interest payments is not probable. Cash receipts on mortgage loans on nonaccrual status are generally recorded as a reduction of carrying value. Debt service coverage ratio is considered a key credit quality indicator when mortgage loans are evaluated for impairment. Debt service coverage ratio represents the amount of estimated cash flows from the property available to the borrower to meet principal and interest payment obligations. Debt service coverage ratio estimates are updated annually or more frequently if conditions are warranted based on the Company’s credit monitoring process. Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Distribution Fixed rate mortgage loans Variable rate mortgage loans Total Fixed rate mortgage loans Variable rate mortgage loans Total Below 1.0 $ 6 $ 31 $ 37 $ 3 $ — $ 3 1.0 - 1.25 273 — 273 345 — 345 1.26 - 1.50 1,192 — 1,192 1,141 30 1,171 Above 1.50 3,063 101 3,164 2,949 62 3,011 Total non-impaired mortgage loans $ 4,534 $ 132 $ 4,666 $ 4,438 $ 92 $ 4,530 Mortgage loans with a debt service coverage ratio below 1.0 that are not considered impaired primarily relate to instances where the borrower has the financial capacity to fund the revenue shortfalls from the properties for the foreseeable term, the decrease in cash flows from the properties is considered temporary, or there are other risk mitigating circumstances such as additional collateral, escrow balances or borrower guarantees. Net carrying value of impaired mortgage loans As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Impaired mortgage loans with a valuation allowance $ 4 $ 4 Impaired mortgage loans without a valuation allowance — — Total impaired mortgage loans $ 4 $ 4 Valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans $ 3 $ 3 The average balance of impaired loans was $4 million , $7 million and $6 million during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Rollforward of the valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 3 $ 3 $ 3 Net increase in valuation allowance — 1 — Charge offs — (1 ) — Ending balance $ 3 $ 3 $ 3 Payments on all mortgage loans were current as of December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . Municipal bonds The Company maintains a diversified portfolio of municipal bonds, including tax exempt and taxable securities, which totaled $9.17 billion and $8.33 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The municipal bond portfolio includes general obligations of state and local issuers and revenue bonds (including pre-refunded bonds, which are bonds for which an irrevocable trust has been established to fund the remaining payments of principal and interest). Principal geographic distribution of municipal bond issuers exceeding 5% of the portfolio As of December 31, (% of municipal bond portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 Texas 12.3 % 9.6 % California 7.4 7.0 Washington 6.2 5.4 New York 5.6 6.9 Florida 4.9 6.5 Short-term investments Short-term investments, including commercial paper, money market funds, U.S. Treasury bills and other short-term investments, are carried at fair value. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the fair value of short-term investments totaled $3.03 billion and $1.94 billion , respectively. Other investments Other investments primarily consist of bank loans, policy loans, real estate, agent loans and derivatives. Bank loans are primarily senior secured corporate loans and are carried at amortized cost. Policy loans are carried at unpaid principal balances. Real estate is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Agent loans are loans issued to exclusive Allstate agents and are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of valuation allowances and unamortized deferred fees or costs. Derivatives are carried at fair value. Other investments by asset type ($ in millions) December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 Bank loans $ 1,350 $ 1,702 Policy loans 891 905 Real estate 791 632 Agent loans 620 538 Derivatives and other 200 195 Total $ 3,852 $ 3,972 Concentration of credit risk As of December 31, 2018 , the Company is not exposed to any credit concentration risk of a single issuer and its affiliates greater than 10% of the Company’s shareholders’ equity, other than the U.S. government and its agencies. Securities loaned The Company’s business activities include securities lending programs with third parties, mostly large banks. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , fixed income and equity securities with a carrying value of $ 1.40 billion and $1.09 billion , respectively, were on loan under these agreements. Interest income on collateral, net of fees, was $4 million , $7 million and $6 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Other investment information Included in fixed income securities are below investment grade assets totaling $5.23 billion and $7.57 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , fixed income securities and short-term investments with a carrying value of $147 million were on deposit with regulatory authorities as required by law. As of December 31, 2018 , the carrying value of fixed income securities and other investments that were non-income producing was $99 million .

Fair Value of Assets and Liabil

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	Note 6 Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities 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. The hierarchy for inputs used in determining fair value maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that observable inputs be used when available. Assets and liabilities recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position at fair value are categorized in the fair value hierarchy based on the observability of inputs to the valuation techniques as follows: Level 1: Assets and liabilities whose values are based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market that the Company can access. Level 2: Assets and liabilities whose values are based on the following: (a) Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; (b) Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; or (c) Valuation models whose inputs are observable, directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. Level 3: Assets and liabilities whose values are based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. Unobservable inputs reflect the Company’s estimates of the assumptions that market participants would use in valuing the assets and liabilities. The availability of observable inputs varies by instrument. In situations where fair value is based on internally developed pricing models or inputs that are unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. The degree of judgment exercised by the Company in determining fair value is typically greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. In many instances, valuation inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. The category level in the fair value hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including during periods of market disruption. In periods of market disruption, the ability to observe prices and inputs may be reduced for many instruments. The Company is responsible for the determination of fair value and the supporting assumptions and methodologies. The Company gains assurance that assets and liabilities are appropriately valued through the execution of various processes and controls designed to ensure the overall reasonableness and consistent application of valuation methodologies, including inputs and assumptions, and compliance with accounting standards. For fair values received from third parties or internally estimated, the Company’s processes and controls are designed to ensure that the valuation methodologies are appropriate and consistently applied, the inputs and assumptions are reasonable and consistent with the objective of determining fair value, and the fair values are accurately recorded. For example, on a continuing basis, the Company assesses the reasonableness of individual fair values that have stale security prices or that exceed certain thresholds as compared to previous fair values received from valuation service providers or brokers or derived from internal models. The Company performs procedures to understand and assess the methodologies, processes and controls of valuation service providers. In addition, the Company may validate the reasonableness of fair values by comparing information obtained from valuation service providers or brokers to other third party valuation sources for selected securities. The Company performs ongoing price validation procedures such as back-testing of actual sales, which corroborate the various inputs used in internal models to market observable data. When fair value determinations are expected to be more variable, the Company validates them through reviews by members of management who have relevant expertise and who are independent of those charged with executing investment transactions. The Company has two types of situations where investments are classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The first is where specific inputs significant to the fair value estimation models are not market observable. This primarily occurs in the Company’s use of broker quotes to value certain securities where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable, and the use of valuation models that use significant non-market observable inputs. The second situation where the Company classifies securities in Level 3 is where quotes continue to be received from independent third-party valuation service providers and all significant inputs are market observable; however, there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset when compared to normal market activity such that the degree of market observability has declined to a point where categorization as a Level 3 measurement is considered appropriate. The indicators considered in determining whether a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for a specific asset has occurred include the level of new issuances in the primary market, trading volume in the secondary market, the level of credit spreads over historical levels, applicable bid-ask spreads, and price consensus among market participants and other pricing sources. Certain assets are not carried at fair value on a recurring basis, including investments such as mortgage loans, bank loans, agent loans and policy loans. Accordingly, such investments are only included in the fair value hierarchy disclosure when the investment is subject to remeasurement at fair value after initial recognition and the resulting remeasurement is reflected in the consolidated financial statements. In determining fair value, the Company principally uses the market approach which generally utilizes market transaction data for the same or similar instruments. To a lesser extent, the Company uses the income approach which involves determining fair values from discounted cash flow methodologies. For the majority of Level 2 and Level 3 valuations, a combination of the market and income approaches is used. Summary of significant valuation techniques for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Level 1 measurements • Fixed income securities: Comprise certain U.S. Treasury fixed income securities. Valuation is based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets in active markets that the Company can access. • Equity securities: Comprise actively traded, exchange-listed equity securities. Valuation is based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets in active markets that the Company can access. • Short-term: Comprise U.S. Treasury bills valued based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets in active markets that the Company can access and actively traded money market funds that have daily quoted net asset values for identical assets that the Company can access. • Separate account assets: Comprise actively traded mutual funds that have daily quoted net asset values that are readily determinable for identical assets that the Company can access. Net asset values for the actively traded mutual funds in which the separate account assets are invested are obtained daily from the fund managers. Level 2 measurements • Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. Municipal: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. Corporate - public: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. Corporate - privately placed: Valued using a discounted cash flow model that is widely accepted in the financial services industry and uses market observable inputs and inputs derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data. The primary inputs to the discounted cash flow model include an interest rate yield curve, as well as published credit spreads for similar assets in markets that are not active that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. Foreign government: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. ABS - collateralized debt obligations (“CDO”) and ABS - consumer and other: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields, prepayment speeds, collateral performance and credit spreads. Certain ABS - CDO and ABS - consumer and other are valued based on non-binding broker quotes whose inputs have been corroborated to be market observable. RMBS: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields, prepayment speeds, collateral performance and credit spreads. CMBS: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields, collateral performance and credit spreads. Redeemable preferred stock: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields, underlying stock prices and credit spreads. • Equity securities: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices or quoted net asset values for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active. • Short-term: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. • Other investments: Free-standing exchange listed derivatives that are not actively traded are valued based on quoted prices for identical instruments in markets that are not active. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivatives, including interest rate swaps, foreign currency swaps, total return swaps, foreign exchange forward contracts, certain options and certain credit default swaps, are valued using models that rely on inputs such as interest rate yield curves, implied volatilities, index price levels, currency rates, and credit spreads that are observable for substantially the full term of the contract. The valuation techniques underlying the models are widely accepted in the financial services industry and do not involve significant judgment. Level 3 measurements • Fixed income securities: Municipal: Comprise municipal bonds that are not rated by third party credit rating agencies. The primary inputs to the valuation of these municipal bonds include quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that exhibit less liquidity relative to those markets supporting Level 2 fair value measurements, contractual cash flows, benchmark yields and credit spreads. Also included are municipal bonds valued based on non-binding broker quotes where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable and municipal bonds in default valued based on the present value of expected cash flows. Corporate - public and Corporate - privately placed: Primarily valued based on non-binding broker quotes where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable. Other inputs include an interest rate yield curve, as well as published credit spreads for similar assets that incorporate the credit quality and industry sector of the issuer. ABS - CDO, ABS - consumer and other, and CMBS: Valued based on non-binding broker quotes received from brokers who are familiar with the investments and where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable. • Equity securities: The primary inputs to the valuation include quoted prices or quoted net asset values for identical or similar assets in markets that exhibit less liquidity relative to those markets supporting Level 2 fair value measurements. • Short-term: For certain short-term investments, amortized cost is used as the best estimate of fair value. • Other investments: Certain OTC derivatives, such as interest rate caps, certain credit default swaps and certain options (including swaptions), are valued using models that are widely accepted in the financial services industry. These are categorized as Level 3 as a result of the significance of non-market observable inputs such as volatility. Other primary inputs include interest rate yield curves and credit spreads. • Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in certain life and annuity contracts are valued internally using models widely accepted in the financial services industry that determine a single best estimate of fair value for the embedded derivatives within a block of contractholder liabilities. The models primarily use stochastically determined cash flows based on the contractual elements of embedded derivatives, projected option cost and applicable market data, such as interest rate yield curves and equity index volatility assumptions. These are categorized as Level 3 as a result of the significance of non-market observable inputs. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis Mortgage loans written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing impairments are valued based on the fair value of the underlying collateral less costs to sell. Investments excluded from the fair value hierarchy Limited partnerships carried at fair value, which do not have readily determinable fair values, use NAV provided by the investees and are excluded from the fair value hierarchy. These investments are generally not redeemable by the investees and generally cannot be sold without approval of the general partner. The Company receives distributions of income and proceeds from the liquidation of the underlying assets of the investees, which usually takes place in years 4-9 of the typical contractual life of 10 - 12 years. As of December 31, 2018 , the Company has commitments to invest $689 million in these limited partnership interests. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Counterparty and cash collateral netting Total Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 5,085 $ 432 $ — $ 5,517 Municipal — 9,099 70 9,169 Corporate - public — 29,200 70 29,270 Corporate - privately placed — 10,776 90 10,866 Foreign government — 747 — 747 ABS - CDO — 263 6 269 ABS - consumer and other — 713 63 776 RMBS — 464 — 464 CMBS — 44 26 70 Redeemable preferred stock — 22 — 22 Total fixed income securities 5,085 51,760 325 57,170 Equity securities 4,364 331 341 5,036 Short-term investments 1,338 1,659 30 3,027 Other investments: Free-standing derivatives — 139 1 (23 ) 117 Separate account assets 2,805 — — 2,805 Other assets 2 — — 2 Total recurring basis assets $ 13,594 $ 53,889 $ 697 $ (23 ) $ 68,157 % of total assets at fair value 19.9 % 79.1 % 1.0 % — % 100.0 % Investments reported at NAV 1,779 Total $ 69,936 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (224 ) $ (224 ) Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives (1 ) (62 ) — $ 6 (57 ) Total recurring basis liabilities $ (1 ) $ (62 ) $ (224 ) $ 6 $ (281 ) % of total liabilities at fair value 0.3 % 22.1 % 79.7 % (2.1 )% 100.0 % Assets and liabilities measured at fair value As of December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Counterparty and cash collateral netting Total Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 3,079 $ 537 $ — $ 3,616 Municipal — 8,227 101 8,328 Corporate - public — 31,963 108 32,071 Corporate - privately placed — 11,731 224 11,955 Foreign government — 1,021 — 1,021 ABS - CDO — 480 99 579 ABS - consumer and other — 645 48 693 RMBS — 578 — 578 CMBS — 102 26 128 Redeemable preferred stock — 23 — 23 Total fixed income securities 3,079 55,307 606 58,992 Equity securities 6,032 379 210 6,621 Short-term investments 264 1,660 20 1,944 Other investments: Free-standing derivatives — 132 1 (6 ) 127 Separate account assets 3,444 — — 3,444 Total recurring basis assets 12,819 57,478 837 (6 ) 71,128 Non-recurring basis (1) — — 3 3 Total assets at fair value $ 12,819 $ 57,478 $ 840 $ (6 ) $ 71,131 % of total assets at fair value 18.0 % 80.8 % 1.2 % — % 100.0 % Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (286 ) $ (286 ) Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives (1 ) (83 ) — $ 14 (70 ) Total recurring basis liabilities $ (1 ) $ (83 ) $ (286 ) $ 14 $ (356 ) % of total liabilities at fair value 0.3 % 23.3 % 80.3 % (3.9 )% 100.0 % (1) Includes $3 million of limited partnership interests written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing OTTI losses. Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements ($ in millions) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable input Range Weighted average December 31, 2018 Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts – Equity-indexed and forward starting options $ (185 ) Stochastic cash flow model Projected option cost 1.0 - 2.2% 1.74% December 31, 2017 Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts – Equity-indexed and forward starting options $ (252 ) Stochastic cash flow model Projected option cost 1.0 - 2.2% 1.74% The embedded derivatives are equity-indexed and forward starting options in certain life and annuity products that provide customers with interest crediting rates based on the performance of the S&P 500. If the projected option cost increased (decreased), it would result in a higher (lower) liability fair value. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , Level 3 fair value measurements of fixed income securities total $325 million and $606 million , respectively, and include $105 million and $271 million , respectively, of securities valued based on non-binding broker quotes where the inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable and $44 million and $58 million , respectively, of municipal fixed income securities that are not rated by third party credit rating agencies. The Company does not develop the unobservable inputs used in measuring fair value; therefore, these are not included in the table above. However, an increase (decrease) in credit spreads for fixed income securities valued based on non-binding broker quotes would result in a lower (higher) fair value, and an increase (decrease) in the credit rating of municipal bonds that are not rated by third party credit rating agencies would result in a higher (lower) fair value. Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2018 Balance as of December 31, 2017 Total gains (losses) included in: Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 ($ in millions) Net income (1) OCI Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ 101 $ 1 $ (2 ) $ — $ (26 ) Corporate - public 108 — (3 ) 17 (21 ) Corporate - privately placed 224 (1 ) (3 ) 20 (119 ) ABS - CDO 99 — 1 20 (109 ) ABS - consumer and other 48 — 1 22 (50 ) CMBS 26 — — — — Total fixed income securities 606 — (6 ) 79 (325 ) Equity securities 210 37 — — — Short-term investments 20 — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net 1 — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 837 $ 37 $ (6 ) $ 79 $ (325 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (286 ) $ 58 $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (286 ) $ 58 $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2018 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ 10 $ (8 ) $ — $ (6 ) $ 70 Corporate - public 10 (38 ) — (3 ) 70 Corporate - privately placed 22 (5 ) — (48 ) 90 ABS - CDO — — — (5 ) 6 ABS - consumer and other 160 (97 ) — (21 ) 63 CMBS 1 — — (1 ) 26 Total fixed income securities 203 (148 ) — (84 ) 325 Equity securities 109 (15 ) — — 341 Short-term investments 55 (45 ) — — 30 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — — 1 (2 ) Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 367 $ (208 ) $ — $ (84 ) $ 697 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (224 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (224 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $95 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $37 million in realized capital gains and losses, $63 million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $(5) million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets. Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2017 Balance as of December 31, 2016 Total gains (losses) included in: Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 ($ in millions) Net income (1) OCI Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal 125 (1 ) 7 — (6 ) Corporate - public 78 — — 4 (30 ) Corporate - privately placed 263 8 (2 ) 30 (49 ) ABS - CDO 27 — 6 60 (190 ) ABS - consumer and other 42 — — — (90 ) RMBS 1 — — — — CMBS 22 — — — — Total fixed income securities 558 7 11 94 (365 ) Equity securities 163 13 4 — (4 ) Short-term investments 15 — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net (2 ) 3 — — — Other assets 1 (1 ) — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 735 $ 22 $ 15 $ 94 $ (369 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (290 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (290 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2017 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal 8 (29 ) — (3 ) 101 Corporate - public 60 — — (4 ) 108 Corporate - privately placed 44 (30 ) — (40 ) 224 ABS - CDO 219 — — (23 ) 99 ABS - consumer and other 103 — — (7 ) 48 RMBS — — — (1 ) — CMBS 6 — — (2 ) 26 Total fixed income securities 440 (59 ) — (80 ) 606 Equity securities 48 (14 ) — — 210 Short-term investments 45 (40 ) — — 20 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — — 1 (2) Other assets — — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 533 $ (113 ) $ — $ (80 ) $ 837 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (286 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (286 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $22 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $4 million in realized capital gains and losses, $19 million in net investment income, $(10) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets. Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2016 Total gains (losses) included in: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2015 Net income (1) OCI Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 5 $ — $ — $ — $ (4 ) Municipal 161 12 (10 ) 6 (23 ) Corporate - public 46 — — 41 (43 ) Corporate - privately placed 502 15 18 16 (398 ) ABS - CDO 61 1 6 10 (43 ) ABS - consumer and other 50 — (3 ) 3 (35 ) RMBS 1 1 — — — CMBS 20 — — — (1 ) Total fixed income securities 846 29 11 76 (547 ) Equity securities 133 (32 ) 12 — (12 ) Short-term investments — — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net (7 ) 6 — — — Other assets 1 — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 973 $ 3 $ 23 $ 76 $ (559 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (299 ) $ 5 $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (299 ) $ 5 $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2016 Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ — $ — $ — $ (1 ) $ — Municipal 22 (40 ) — (3 ) 125 Corporate - public 47 (11 ) — (2 ) 78 Corporate - privately placed 181 (15 ) — (56 ) 263 ABS - CDO 40 (3 ) — (45 ) 27 ABS - consumer and other 35 (5 ) — (3 ) 42 RMBS — (1 ) — — 1 CMBS 5 — — (2 ) 22 Total fixed income securities 330 (75 ) — (112 ) 558 Equity securities 65 (4 ) — 1 163 Short-term investments 15 — — — 15 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — (1 ) (2 ) (2) Other assets — — — — 1 Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 410 $ (79 ) $ — $ (112 ) $ 735 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 7 $ (290 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 7 $ (290 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $8 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $(9) million in realized capital gains and losses, $12 million in net investment income, $(4) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets and $3 million of liabilities. Transfers between level categorizations may occur due to changes in the availability of market observable inputs, which generally are caused by changes in market conditions such as liquidity, trading volume or bid-ask spreads. Transfers between level categorizations may also occur due to changes in the valuation source, including situations where a fair value quote is not provided by the Company’s independent third-party valuation service provider resulting in the price becoming stale or replaced with a broker quote whose inputs have not been corroborated to be market observable. This situation will result in the transfer of a security into Level 3. Transfers in and out of level categorizations are reported as having occurred at the beginning of the quarter in which the transfer occurred. Therefore, for all transfers into Level 3, all realized and changes in unrealized gains and losses in the quarter of transfer are reflected in the Level 3 rollforward table. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during 2018 , 2017 or 2016 . Transfers into Level 3 during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 included situations where a fair value quote was not provided by the Company’s independent third-party valuation service provider and as a result the price was stale or had been replaced with a broker quote where the inputs had not been corroborated to be market observable resulting in the security being classified as Level 3. Transfers out of Level 3 during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 included situations where a broker quote was used in the prior period and a fair value quote became available from the Company’s independent third-party valuation service provider in the current period. A quote utilizing the new pricing source was not available as of the prior period, and any gains or losses related to the change in valuation source for individual securities were not significant. Valuation changes included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities held as of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ — $ (3 ) $ 2 Corporate — 1 2 Total fixed income securities — (2 ) 4 Equity securities 36 13 (32 ) Free-standing derivatives, net — — 5 Other assets — (1 ) — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 36 $ 10 $ (23 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ 58 $ — $ 5 Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ 58 $ — $ 5 The amounts in the table above represent the change in unrealized gains and losses included in net income for the period of time that the asset or liability was held and determined to be in Level 3. These gains and losses total $94 million in 2018 and are reported as follows: $36 million in realized capital gains and losses, $63 million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $(5) million in life contract benefits. These gains and losses total $10 million in 2017 and are reported as follows: $(8) million in realized capital gains and losses, $19 million in net investment income, $(10) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. These gains and losses total $(18) million in 2016 and are reported as follows: $(36) million in realized capital gains and losses, $13 million in net investment income, $(4) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. Financial assets Carrying values and fair value estimates of financial instruments not carried at fair value December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Fair value level Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Fair value Mortgage loans Level 3 $ 4,670 $ 4,703 $ 4,534 $ 4,732 Bank loans Level 3 1,350 1,298 1,702 1,704 Agent loans Level 3 620 617 538 536 Financial liabilities Carrying values and fair value estimates of financial instruments not carried at fair value December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Fair value level Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Fair value Contractholder funds on investment contracts Level 3 $ 9,250 $ 9,665 $ 10,367 $ 11,071 Long-term debt Level 2 6,451 6,708 6,350 7,199 Liability for collateral Level 2 1,458 1,458 1,124 1,124

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments	Note 7 Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance Sheet Financial Instruments The Company uses derivatives for risk reduction and to increase investment portfolio returns through asset replication. Risk reduction activity is focused on managing the risks with certain assets and liabilities arising from the potential adverse impacts from changes in risk-free interest rates, changes in equity market valuations, increases in credit spreads and foreign currency fluctuations. Asset replication refers to the “synthetic” creation of assets through the use of derivatives. The Company replicates fixed income securities using a combination of a credit default swap, index total return swap, or a foreign currency forward contract and one or more highly rated fixed income securities, primarily investment grade host bonds, to synthetically replicate the economic characteristics of one or more cash market securities. The Company replicates equity securities using futures, index total return swaps, and options to increase equity exposure. Property-Liability may use interest rate swaps, swaptions, futures and options to manage the interest rate risks of existing investments. These instruments are utilized to change the duration of the portfolio in order to offset the economic effect that interest rates would otherwise have on the fair value of its fixed income securities. Fixed income index total return swaps are used to offset valuation losses in the fixed income portfolio during periods of declining market values. Credit default swaps are typically used to mitigate the credit risk within the Property-Liability fixed income portfolio. Equity index total return swaps, futures and options are used by Property-Liability to offset valuation losses in the equity portfolio during periods of declining equity market values. In addition, equity futures are used to hedge the market risk related to deferred compensation liability contracts. Forward contracts are primarily used by Property-Liability to hedge foreign currency risk associated with holding foreign currency denominated investments and foreign operations. Asset-liability management is a risk management strategy that is principally employed by Allstate Life and Allstate Annuities to balance the respective interest-rate sensitivities of its assets and liabilities. Depending upon the attributes of the assets acquired and liabilities issued, derivative instruments such as interest rate swaps, caps, swaptions and futures are utilized to change the interest rate characteristics of existing assets and liabilities to ensure the relationship is maintained within specified ranges and to reduce exposure to rising or falling interest rates. Fixed income index total return swaps are used to offset valuation losses in the portfolio during periods of declining market values. Credit default swaps are typically used to mitigate the credit risk within the Allstate Life and Allstate Annuities fixed income portfolios. Futures and options are used for hedging the equity exposure contained in equity indexed life and annuity product contracts that offer equity returns to contractholders. In addition, the Company uses equity index total return swaps, options and futures to offset valuation losses in the equity portfolio during periods of declining equity market values. Foreign currency swaps and forwards are primarily used to reduce the foreign currency risk associated with holding foreign currency denominated investments. The Company also has derivatives embedded in non-derivative host contracts that are required to be separated from the host contracts and accounted for at fair value with changes in fair value of embedded derivatives reported in net income. The Company’s primary embedded derivatives are equity options in life and annuity product contracts, which provide returns linked to equity indices to contractholders. When derivatives meet specific criteria, they may be designated as accounting hedges and accounted for as fair value, cash flow, foreign currency fair value or foreign currency cash flow hedges. The Company designates certain investment risk transfer reinsurance agreements as fair value hedges when the hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting the risk of changes in the fair value of the hedged item. The Company designates certain of its foreign currency swap contracts as cash flow hedges when the hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting the exposure of variations in cash flows for the hedged risk that could affect net income. Amounts are reclassified to net investment income or realized capital gains and losses as the hedged item affects net income. The notional amounts specified in the contracts are used to calculate the exchange of contractual payments under the agreements and are generally not representative of the potential for gain or loss on these agreements. However, the notional amounts specified in credit default swaps where the Company has sold credit protection represent the maximum amount of potential loss, assuming no recoveries. Fair value, which is equal to the carrying value, is the estimated amount that the Company would receive or pay to terminate the derivative contracts at the reporting date. The carrying value amounts for OTC derivatives are further adjusted for the effects, if any, of enforceable master netting agreements and are presented on a net basis, by counterparty agreement, in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. For those derivatives which qualify for fair value hedge accounting, net income includes the changes in the fair value of both the derivative instrument and the hedged risk, and therefore reflects any hedging ineffectiveness. For cash flow hedges, gains and losses are amortized from AOCI and are reported in net income in the same period the forecasted transactions being hedged impact net income. Non-hedge accounting is generally used for “portfolio” level hedging strategies where the terms of the individual hedged items do not meet the strict homogeneity requirements to permit the application of hedge accounting. For non-hedge derivatives, net income includes changes in fair value and accrued periodic settlements, when applicable. With the exception of non-hedge derivatives used for asset replication and non-hedge embedded derivatives, all of the Company’s derivatives are evaluated for their ongoing effectiveness as either accounting hedge or non-hedge derivative financial instruments on at least a quarterly basis. Summary of the volume and fair value positions of derivative instruments as of December 31, 2018 Volume (1) ($ in millions, except number of contracts) Balance sheet location Notional amount Number of contracts Fair value, net Gross asset Gross liability Asset derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other investments $ 6 n/a $ — $ — $ — Futures Other assets — 1,330 1 1 — Equity and index contracts Options Other investments — 11,131 115 115 — Futures Other assets — 1,453 1 1 — Total return index contracts Total return swap agreements - fixed income Other investments 7 — — — — Total return swap agreements - equity index Other investments 61 — (2 ) — (2 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other investments 258 n/a 10 11 (1 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other investments 136 n/a (1 ) 2 (3 ) Other contracts Other Other investments 2 n/a — — — Total asset derivatives $ 470 13,914 $ 124 $ 130 $ (6 ) Liability derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses $ 31 n/a $ 1 $ 1 $ — Futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 1,300 (1 ) — (1 ) Equity and index contracts Options and futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 10,956 (50 ) — (50 ) Total return index contracts Total return swap agreements - fixed income Other liabilities & accrued expenses 38 — (1 ) — (1 ) Total return swap agreements - equity index Other liabilities & accrued expenses 71 — (4 ) — (4 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other liabilities & accrued expenses 341 n/a 10 11 (1 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments Guaranteed accumulation benefits Contractholder funds 169 n/a (25 ) — (25 ) Guaranteed withdrawal benefits Contractholder funds 210 n/a (14 ) — (14 ) Equity-indexed and forward starting options in life and annuity product contracts Contractholder funds 1,770 n/a (185 ) — (185 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 40 n/a — — — Credit default swaps – selling protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 5 n/a — — — Total liability derivatives 2,675 12,256 (269 ) $ 12 $ (281 ) Total derivatives $ 3,145 26,170 $ (145 ) (1) Volume for OTC and cleared derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable) Summary of the volume and fair value positions of derivative instruments as of December 31, 2017 Volume (1) ($ in millions, except number of contracts) Balance sheet location Notional amount Number of contracts Fair value, net Gross asset Gross liability Asset derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other investments $ 15 n/a $ — $ — $ — Equity and index contracts Options Other investments — 6,316 125 125 — Futures Other assets — 289 — — — Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other investments 52 n/a 1 1 — Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other investments 105 n/a (1 ) — (1 ) Credit default swaps – selling protection Other investments 80 n/a 1 1 — Other contracts Other Other assets 3 n/a — — — Total asset derivatives $ 255 6,605 $ 126 $ 127 $ (1 ) Liability derivatives Derivatives designated as accounting hedging instruments Foreign currency swap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses $ 19 n/a $ 2 $ 2 $ — Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses 30 n/a 1 1 — Equity and index contracts Options and futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 7,128 (58 ) — (58 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other liabilities & accrued expenses 650 n/a (17 ) 3 (20 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments Guaranteed accumulation benefits Contractholder funds 225 n/a (22 ) — (22 ) Guaranteed withdrawal benefits Contractholder funds 274 n/a (12 ) — (12 ) Equity-indexed and forward starting options in life and annuity product contracts Contractholder funds 1,774 n/a (252 ) — (252 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 136 n/a (5 ) — (5 ) Credit default swaps – selling protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 25 n/a — — — Subtotal 3,114 7,128 (365 ) 4 (369 ) Total liability derivatives 3,133 7,128 (363 ) $ 6 $ (369 ) Total derivatives $ 3,388 13,733 $ (237 ) (1) Volume for OTC and cleared derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable) Gross and net amounts for OTC derivatives (1) Offsets ($ in millions) Gross amount Counter- party netting Cash collateral (received) pledged Net amount on balance sheet Securities collateral (received) pledged Net amount December 31, 2018 Asset derivatives $ 25 $ (18 ) $ (5 ) $ 2 $ — $ 2 Liability derivatives (12 ) 18 (12 ) (6 ) — (6 ) December 31, 2017 Asset derivatives $ 8 $ (7 ) $ 1 $ 2 $ — $ 2 Liability derivatives (26 ) 7 7 (12 ) 3 (9 ) (1) All OTC derivatives are subject to enforceable master netting agreements. Summary of the impacts of the foreign currency contracts in cash flow hedging relationships For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives during the period $ 1 $ (2 ) $ — (Loss) gain recognized in OCI on derivatives during the term of the hedging relationship (3 ) (1 ) 2 Gain reclassified from AOCI into income (net investment income) — 1 1 Gain reclassified from AOCI into income (realized capital gains and losses) 3 — 3 Amortization of net gains from AOCI related to cash flow hedges is expected to be a loss of less than $1 million during the next twelve months. There was no hedge ineffectiveness reported in realized gains and losses in 2018 , 2017 or 2016 . Gains (losses) from valuation and settlements reported on derivatives not designated as accounting hedges ($ in millions) Realized capital gains (losses) Life contract benefits Interest credited to contractholder funds Operating costs and expenses Total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives 2018 Interest rate contracts $ (2 ) $ — $ — $ — $ (2 ) Equity and index contracts 21 — (24 ) (21 ) (24 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments — (5 ) 67 — 62 Foreign currency contracts 29 — — (1 ) 28 Credit default contracts 2 — — — 2 Total return swaps - fixed income (1 ) — — — (1 ) Total return swaps - equity (6 ) — — — (6 ) Total $ 43 $ (5 ) $ 43 $ (22 ) $ 59 2017 Equity and index contracts $ (15 ) $ — $ 47 $ 28 $ 60 Embedded derivative financial instruments — 9 (6 ) — 3 Foreign currency contracts (27 ) — — 6 (21 ) Credit default contracts (4 ) — — — (4 ) Total $ (46 ) $ 9 $ 41 $ 34 $ 38 2016 Equity and index contracts $ (12 ) $ — $ 18 $ 19 $ 25 Embedded derivative financial instruments — 9 — — 9 Foreign currency contracts 17 — — (35 ) (18 ) Credit default contracts (5 ) — — — (5 ) Total $ — $ 9 $ 18 $ (16 ) $ 11 In 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , the Company had no derivatives used in fair value hedging relationships. The Company manages its exposure to credit risk by utilizing highly rated counterparties, establishing risk control limits, executing legally enforceable master netting agreements (“MNAs”) and obtaining collateral where appropriate. The Company uses MNAs for OTC derivative transactions that permit either party to net payments due for transactions and collateral is either pledged or obtained when certain predetermined exposure limits are exceeded. As of December 31, 2018 , counterparties pledged $21 million in collateral to the Company, and the Company pledged $4 million in cash and securities to counterparties which includes $2 million of collateral posted under MNAs for contracts containing credit-risk contingent provisions that are in a liability position and $2 million of collateral posted under MNAs for contracts without credit-risk-contingent features. The Company has not incurred any losses on derivative financial instruments due to counterparty nonperformance. Other derivatives, including futures and certain option contracts, are traded on organized exchanges which require margin deposits and guarantee the execution of trades, thereby mitigating any potential credit risk. Counterparty credit exposure represents the Company’s potential loss if all of the counterparties concurrently fail to perform under the contractual terms of the contracts and all collateral, if any, becomes worthless. This exposure is measured by the fair value of OTC derivative contracts with a positive fair value at the reporting date reduced by the effect, if any, of legally enforceable master netting agreements. For certain exchange traded and cleared derivatives, margin deposits are required as well as daily cash settlements of margin accounts. As of December 31, 2018 , the Company pledged $277 million in the form of margin deposits. OTC derivatives counterparty credit exposure by counterparty credit rating ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Rating (1) Number of counter-parties Notional amount (2) Credit exposure (2) Exposure, net of collateral (2) Number of counter-parties Notional amount (2) Credit exposure (2) Exposure, net of collateral (2) AA– — $ — $ — $ — 1 $ 18 $ 1 $ — A+ 3 643 19 1 3 90 3 1 A 2 121 1 — — — — — Total 5 $ 764 $ 20 $ 1 4 $ 108 $ 4 $ 1 (1) Allstate uses the lower of S&P’s or Moody’s long term debt issuer ratings. (2) Only OTC derivatives with a net positive fair value are included for each counterparty. Market risk is the risk that the Company will incur losses due to adverse changes in market rates and prices. Market risk exists for all of the derivative financial instruments the Company currently holds, as these instruments may become less valuable due to adverse changes in market conditions. To limit this risk, the Company’s senior management has established risk control limits. In addition, changes in fair value of the derivative financial instruments that the Company uses for risk management purposes are generally offset by the change in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged risk component of the related assets, liabilities or forecasted transactions. Certain of the Company’s derivative instruments contain credit-risk-contingent termination events, cross-default provisions and credit support annex agreements. Credit-risk-contingent termination events allow the counterparties to terminate the derivative agreement or a specific trade on certain dates if AIC’s, ALIC’s or Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York’s (“ALNY”) financial strength credit ratings by Moody’s or S&P fall below a certain level. Credit-risk-contingent cross-default provisions allow the counterparties to terminate the derivative agreement if the Company defaults by pre-determined threshold amounts on certain debt instruments. Credit-risk-contingent credit support annex agreements specify the amount of collateral the Company must post to counterparties based on AIC’s, ALIC’s or ALNY’s financial strength credit ratings by Moody’s or S&P, or in the event AIC, ALIC or ALNY are no longer rated by either Moody’s or S&P. The following summarizes the fair value of derivative instruments with termination, cross-default or collateral credit-risk-contingent features that are in a liability position as of December 31, as well as the fair value of assets and collateral that are netted against the liability in accordance with provisions within legally enforceable MNAs. ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Gross liability fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features $ 11 $ 28 Gross asset fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features and subject to MNAs (5 ) (17 ) Collateral posted under MNAs for contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features (2 ) (6 ) Maximum amount of additional exposure for contracts with credit-risk-contingent features if all features were triggered concurrently $ 4 $ 5 Credit derivatives – selling protection A credit default swap (“CDS”) is a derivative instrument, representing an agreement between two parties to exchange the credit risk of a specified entity (or a group of entities), or an index based on the credit risk of a group of entities (all commonly referred to as the “reference entity” or a portfolio of “reference entities”), in return for a periodic premium. In selling protection, CDSs are used to replicate fixed income securities and to complement the cash market when credit exposure to certain issuers is not available or when the derivative alternative is less expensive than the cash market alternative. CDSs typically have a five -year term. CDS notional amounts by credit rating and fair value of protection sold Notional amount ($ in millions) AA A BBB BB and lower Total Fair value December 31, 2018 Single name Corporate debt $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ 5 $ — Total $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ 5 $ — December 31, 2017 Single name Corporate debt $ — $ 10 $ 10 $ 5 $ 25 $ — Index Corporate debt 1 19 45 15 80 1 Total $ 1 $ 29 $ 55 $ 20 $ 105 $ 1 In selling protection with CDS, the Company sells credit protection on an identified single name, a basket of names in a first-to-default (“FTD”) structure or credit derivative index (“CDX”) that is generally investment grade, and in return receives periodic premiums through expiration or termination of the agreement. With single name CDS, this premium or credit spread generally corresponds to the difference between the yield on the reference entity’s public fixed maturity cash instruments and swap rates at the time the agreement is executed. With a FTD basket, because of the additional credit risk inherent in a basket of named reference entities, the premium generally corresponds to a high proportion of the sum of the credit spreads of the names in the basket and the correlation between the names. CDX is utilized to take a position on multiple (generally 125 ) reference entities. Credit events are typically defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, or restructuring, depending on the nature of the reference entities. If a credit event occurs, the Company settles with the counterparty, either through physical settlement or cash settlement. In a physical settlement, a reference asset is delivered by the buyer of protection to the Company, in exchange for cash payment at par, whereas in a cash settlement, the Company pays the difference between par and the prescribed value of the reference asset. When a credit event occurs in a single name or FTD basket (for FTD, the first credit event occurring for any one name in the basket), the contract terminates at the time of settlement. For CDX, the reference entity’s name incurring the credit event is removed from the index while the contract continues until expiration. The maximum payout on a CDS is the contract notional amount. A physical settlement may afford the Company with recovery rights as the new owner of the asset. The Company monitors risk associated with credit derivatives through individual name credit limits at both a credit derivative and a combined cash instrument/credit derivative level. The ratings of individual names for which protection has been sold are also monitored. Off-balance sheet financial instruments Contractual amounts of off balance sheet financial instruments As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests $ 3,028 $ 3,121 Private placement commitments 47 96 Other loan commitments 233 97 In the preceding table, the contractual amounts represent the amount at risk if the contract is fully drawn upon, the counterparty defaults and the value of any underlying security becomes worthless. Unless noted otherwise, the Company does not require collateral or other security to support off-balance sheet financial instruments with credit risk. Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests represent agreements to acquire new or additional participation in certain limited partnership investments. The Company enters into these agreements in the normal course of business. Because the investments in limited partnerships are not actively traded, it is not practical to estimate the fair value of these commitments. Private placement commitments represent commitments to purchase private placement debt and private equity securities at a future date. The Company enters into these agreements in the normal course of business. The fair value of the debt commitments generally cannot be estimated on the date the commitment is made as the terms and conditions of the underlying private placement securities are not yet final. Because the private equity securities are not actively traded, it is not practical to estimate fair value of the commitments. Other loan commitments are agreements to lend to a borrower provided there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. The Company enters into these agreements to commit to future loan fundings at predetermined interest rates. Commitments have either fixed or varying expiration dates or other termination clauses. The fair value of these commitments is insignificant.

Reserve for Property-Liability

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense
Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense	Note 8 Reserve for Property and Casualty Insurance Claims and Claims Expense The Company establishes reserves for claims and claims expense on reported and unreported claims of insured losses. The Company’s reserving process takes into account known facts and interpretations of circumstances and factors including the Company’s experience with similar cases, actual claims paid, historical trends involving claim payment patterns and pending levels of unpaid claims, loss management programs, product mix and contractual terms, changes in law and regulation, judicial decisions, and economic conditions. In the normal course of business, the Company may also supplement its claims processes by utilizing third party adjusters, appraisers, engineers, inspectors, and other professionals and information sources to assess and settle catastrophe and non-catastrophe related claims. The effects of inflation are implicitly considered in the reserving process. Because reserves are estimates of unpaid portions of losses that have occurred, including incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) losses, the establishment of appropriate reserves, including reserves for catastrophes and reserves for reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, is an inherently uncertain and complex process. The ultimate cost of losses may vary materially from recorded amounts, which are based on management’s best estimates. The highest degree of uncertainty is associated with reserves for losses incurred in the current reporting period as it contains the greatest proportion of losses that have not been reported or settled. The Company regularly updates its reserve estimates as new information becomes available and as events unfold that may affect the resolution of unsettled claims. Changes in prior year reserve estimates, which may be material, are reported in property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in the period such changes are determined. Rollforward of reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance as of January 1 $ 26,325 $ 25,250 $ 23,869 Less recoverables (1) (6,471 ) (6,184 ) (5,892 ) Net balance as of January 1 19,854 19,066 17,977 SquareTrade acquisition as of January 3, 2017 — 17 — Incurred claims and claims expense related to: Current year 23,033 22,350 22,177 Prior years (255 ) (503 ) (17 ) Total incurred 22,778 21,847 22,160 Claims and claims expense paid related to: Current year (14,877 ) (14,112 ) (14,161 ) Prior years (7,487 ) (6,964 ) (6,910 ) Total paid (22,364 ) (21,076 ) (21,071 ) Net balance as of December 31 20,268 19,854 19,066 Plus recoverables 7,155 6,471 6,184 Balance as of December 31 $ 27,423 $ 26,325 $ 25,250 (1) Recoverables comprises reinsurance and indemnification recoverables. See Note 10 for further details. Reconciliation of total claims and claims expense incurred and paid by coverage December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Incurred Paid Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage $ 8,413 $ (7,535 ) Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 5,088 (5,134 ) Homeowners insurance 4,817 (4,714 ) Total auto and homeowners insurance 18,318 (17,383 ) Other personal lines 1,081 (1,055 ) Commercial lines 545 (369 ) Service Businesses 313 (325 ) Discontinued Lines and Coverages 73 (91 ) Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”) 2,479 (2,574 ) Claims incurred and paid from before 2014 (68 ) (398 ) Other 37 (169 ) Total $ 22,778 $ (22,364 ) Incurred claims and claims expense represents the sum of paid losses and reserve changes in the calendar year. This expense includes losses from catastrophes of $2.86 billion , $3.23 billion and $2.57 billion in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, net of recoverables. Catastrophes are an inherent risk of the property and casualty insurance business that have contributed to, and will continue to contribute to, material year-to-year fluctuations in the Company’s results of operations and financial position. The Company calculates and records a single best reserve estimate for losses from catastrophes, in conformance with generally accepted actuarial standards. As a result, management believes that no other estimate is better than the recorded amount. Due to the uncertainties involved, including the factors described above, the ultimate cost of losses may vary materially from recorded amounts, which are based on management’s best estimates. Accordingly, management believes that it is not practical to develop a meaningful range for any such changes in losses incurred. During 2018 , incurred claims and claims expense related to prior years was primarily comprised of net decreases in auto reserves of $455 million , primarily related to a reduction in claim severity estimates for liability coverages, net increases in commercial lines of $108 million , net increases in Discontinued Lines and Coverages of $87 million , net increases in homeowners reserves of $14 million and a net decrease in other reserves of $9 million . Incurred claims and claims expense includes unfavorable catastrophe loss reestimates of $ 25 million , net of recoverables. During 2017 , incurred claims and claims expense related to prior years was primarily comprised of net decreases in auto and homeowners reserves of $490 million and $131 million , respectively, primarily related to a reduction in claim severity estimates for liability coverages, net increases in Discontinued Lines and Coverages of $96 million and net increases in other reserves of $22 million . Incurred claims and claims expense includes favorable catastrophe loss reestimates of $18 million , net of recoverables. During 2016 , incurred claims and claims expense related to prior years was primarily composed of net decreases in auto reserves of $155 million primarily due to claim severity development for bodily injury coverage that was better than expected, net decreases in homeowners reserves of $24 million due to favorable non-catastrophe reserve reestimates, net increases in other reserves of $57 million primarily due to unfavorable commercial business non-catastrophe losses, and net increases in Discontinued Lines and Coverages reserves of $105 million . Incurred claims and claims expense includes unfavorable catastrophe loss reestimates of $6 million , net of recoverables. The following presents information about incurred and paid claims development as of December 31, 2018 , net of recoverables, as well as the cumulative number of reported claims and the total of IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims included in the net incurred claims amounts. See Note 2 for the accounting policy and methodology for determining reserves for claims and claims expense, including both reported and IBNR claims. The cumulative number of reported claims is identified by coverage and excludes reported claims for industry pools and facilities where information is not available. The information about incurred and paid claims development for the 2014 to 2018 years, and the average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age as of December 31, 2018 , is presented as required supplementary information. Auto insurance – liability coverage ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 7,727 $ 7,833 $ 7,797 $ 7,727 $ 7,661 $ (66 ) $ 471 2,195,241 2015 — 8,741 8,711 8,656 8,596 (60 ) 1,044 2,382,914 2016 — — 9,007 8,811 8,711 (100 ) 1,873 2,396,876 2017 — — — 8,436 8,369 (67 ) 3,049 2,204,093 2018 — — — — 8,706 5,484 2,075,655 Total $ 42,043 $ (293 ) Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (43 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE 8 Other (1 ) Total prior year reserve reestimates $ (329 ) Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 3,168 $ 5,308 $ 6,247 $ 6,813 $ 7,190 2015 — 3,518 5,828 6,872 7,552 2016 — — 3,479 5,759 6,838 2017 — — — 3,143 5,320 2018 — — — — 3,222 Total $ 30,122 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 1,259 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 13,180 Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Auto insurance – liability coverage 40.2 % 27.3 % 12.6 % 8.0 % 4.7 % Auto insurance – physical damage coverage ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 4,296 $ 4,284 $ 4,258 $ 4,261 $ 4,260 $ (1 ) $ 3 4,144,633 2015 — 4,646 4,675 4,663 4,654 (9 ) 6 4,389,912 2016 — — 5,118 5,045 5,018 (27 ) 6 4,430,776 2017 — — — 5,111 5,029 (82 ) 1 4,232,605 2018 — — — — 5,207 246 4,150,524 Total $ 24,168 $ (119 ) Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (3 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE (5 ) Other 1 Total prior year reserve reestimates $ (126 ) Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 4,137 $ 4,269 $ 4,261 $ 4,258 $ 4,257 2015 — 4,501 4,665 4,652 4,648 2016 — — 4,881 5,024 5,012 2017 — — — 4,838 5,029 2018 — — — — 4,960 Total $ 23,906 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 9 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 271 Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Auto insurance – p hysical damage coverage 96.9 % 3.1 % (0.2 )% — % — % Homeowners insurance ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 3,589 $ 3,636 $ 3,640 $ 3,609 $ 3,599 $ (10 ) $ 52 765,329 2015 — 3,553 3,607 3,548 3,532 (16 ) 79 720,955 2016 — — 3,952 3,987 3,949 (38 ) 147 812,785 2017 — — — 4,469 4,611 142 370 902,301 2018 — — — — 4,739 1,256 743,408 Total $ 20,430 $ 78 Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (23 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE (50 ) Other 9 Total prior year reserve reestimates $ 14 Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 2,729 $ 3,356 $ 3,472 $ 3,524 $ 3,547 2015 — 2,583 3,291 3,394 3,453 2016 — — 2,942 3,672 3,802 2017 — — — 3,222 4,241 2018 — — — — 3,483 Total $ 18,526 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 140 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 2,044 Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Homeowners insurance 74.7 % 18.8 % 2.9 % 1.4 % 0.7 % Reconciliation of the net incurred and paid claims development tables above to the reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense ($ in millions) As of December 31, 2018 Net outstanding liabilities Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage $ 13,180 Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 271 Homeowners insurance 2,044 Other personal lines 1,356 Commercial lines 766 Service Businesses 50 Discontinued Lines and Coverages (1) 1,315 ULAE 1,286 Net reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense 20,268 Recoverables Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage 5,829 Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 12 Homeowners insurance 472 Other personal lines 195 Commercial lines 53 Service Businesses 12 Discontinued Lines and Coverages 473 ULAE 109 Total recoverables 7,155 Gross reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense $ 27,423 (1) Discontinued Lines and Coverages includes business in run-off with a majority of the claims related to accident years more than 30 years ago. IBNR reserves represent $693 million of the total reserves as of December 31, 2018 . Management believes that the reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense, net of recoverables, is appropriately established in the aggregate and adequate to cover the ultimate net cost of reported and unreported claims arising from losses which had occurred by the date of the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position based on available facts, technology, laws and regulations. Allstate’s reserves for asbestos claims were $866 million and $884 million , net of reinsurance recoverables of $400 million and $412 million , as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Reserves for environmental claims were $170 million and $166 million , net of reinsurance recoverables of $39 million and $33 million , as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. For further discussion of asbestos and environmental reserves, see Note 14.

Reserve for Life-Contingent Con

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds
Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds	Note 9 Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Immediate fixed annuities: Structured settlement annuities $ 6,701 $ 6,994 Other immediate fixed annuities 1,714 1,855 Traditional life insurance 2,808 2,722 Accident and health insurance 876 893 Other 109 85 Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits $ 12,208 $ 12,549 Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits Product Mortality Interest rate Estimation method Structured settlement annuities U.S. population with projected calendar year improvements; mortality rates adjusted for each impaired life based on reduction in life expectancy Interest rate assumptions range from 2.9% to 9.0% Present value of contractually specified future benefits Other immediate fixed annuities 1983 group annuity mortality table with internal modifications; 1983 individual annuity mortality table; Annuity 2000 mortality table with internal modifications; Annuity 2000 mortality table; 1983 individual annuity mortality table with internal modifications Interest rate assumptions range from 0.0% to 11.5% Present value of expected future benefits based on historical experience Traditional life insurance Actual company experience plus loading Interest rate assumptions range from 2.5% to 11.3% Net level premium reserve method using the Company’s withdrawal experience rates; includes reserves for unpaid claims Accident and health insurance Actual company experience plus loading Interest rate assumptions range from 3.0% to 7.0% Unearned premium; additional contract reserves for mortality risk and unpaid claims Other: Variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits (1) Annuity 2012 mortality table with internal modifications Interest rate assumptions range from 2.0% to 5.8% Projected benefit ratio applied to cumulative assessments (1) In 2006, the Company disposed of substantially all of its variable annuity business through reinsurance agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a subsidiary of Prudential Financial, Inc. (collectively “Prudential”). The Company records an adjustment to the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits that represents the amount by which the reserve balance would increase if the net unrealized gains in the applicable product investment portfolios were realized and reinvested at current lower interest rates, resulting in a premium deficiency. The offset to this liability is recorded as a reduction of the unrealized net capital gains included in AOCI. In conjunction with the segment changes that occurred in 2017, the Company evaluated the need for a reserve adjustment separately for traditional life insurance and immediate annuities with life contingencies. As of December 31, 2017, the Company recorded a $315 million increase to the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits and a $249 million decrease to unrealized net capital gains, after-tax, included in shareholders’ equity. This liability was zero as of December 31, 2018. Contractholder funds As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Interest-sensitive life insurance $ 8,229 $ 8,190 Investment contracts: Fixed annuities 9,681 10,828 Other investment contracts 461 416 Total contractholder funds $ 18,371 $ 19,434 Key contract provisions of contractholder funds Product Interest rate Withdrawal/surrender charges Interest-sensitive life insurance Interest rates credited range from 0.0% to 10.5% for equity-indexed life (whose returns are indexed to the S&P 500) and 1.0% to 6.0% for all other products Either a percentage of account balance or dollar amount grading off generally over 20 years Fixed annuities Interest rates credited range from 0.0% to 9.8% for immediate annuities; (8.0)% to 10.8% for equity-indexed annuities (whose returns are indexed to the S&P 500); and 0.1% to 6.0% for all other products Either a declining or a level percentage charge generally over ten years or less. Additionally, approximately 13.5% of fixed annuities are subject to market value adjustment for discretionary withdrawals Other investment contracts: Guaranteed minimum income, accumulation and withdrawal benefits on variable (1) and fixed annuities and secondary guarantees on interest-sensitive life insurance and fixed annuities Interest rates used in establishing reserves range from 1.7% to 10.3% Withdrawal and surrender charges are based on the terms of the related interest-sensitive life insurance or fixed annuity contract (1) In 2006, the Company disposed of substantially all of its variable annuity business through reinsurance agreements with Prudential. Contractholder funds activity For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 19,434 $ 20,260 $ 21,295 Deposits 1,109 1,130 1,164 Interest credited 650 687 722 Benefits (844 ) (901 ) (966 ) Surrenders and partial withdrawals (1,135 ) (999 ) (1,053 ) Maturities of and interest payments on institutional products — — (86 ) Contract charges (824 ) (826 ) (829 ) Net transfers from separate accounts 6 5 5 Other adjustments (25 ) 78 8 Balance, end of year $ 18,371 $ 19,434 $ 20,260 The Company offered various guarantees to variable annuity contractholders. In 2006, the Company disposed of substantially all of its variable annuity business through reinsurance agreements with Prudential. Liabilities for variable contract guarantees related to death benefits are included in the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits and the liabilities related to the income, withdrawal and accumulation benefits are included in contractholder funds. All liabilities for variable contract guarantees are reported on a gross basis on the balance sheet with a corresponding reinsurance recoverable asset for those contracts subject to reinsurance. Absent any contract provision wherein the Company guarantees either a minimum return or account value upon death, a specified contract anniversary date, partial withdrawal or annuitization, variable annuity and variable life insurance contractholders bear the investment risk that the separate accounts’ funds may not meet their stated investment objectives. The account balances of variable annuity contracts’ separate accounts with guarantees included $2.47 billion and $3.02 billion of equity, fixed income and balanced mutual funds and $245 million and $322 million of money market mutual funds as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The table below presents information regarding the Company’s variable annuity contracts with guarantees. The Company’s variable annuity contracts may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract; therefore, the sum of amounts listed exceeds the total account balances of variable annuity contracts’ separate accounts with guarantees. ($ in millions) As of December 31, 2018 2017 In the event of death Separate account value $ 2,711 $ 3,344 Net amount at risk (1) $ 605 $ 454 Average attained age of contractholders 71 years 70 years At annuitization (includes income benefit guarantees) Separate account value $ 778 $ 944 Net amount at risk (2) $ 264 $ 202 Weighted average waiting period until annuitization options available None None For cumulative periodic withdrawals Separate account value $ 190 $ 253 Net amount at risk (3) $ 16 $ 10 Accumulation at specified dates Separate account value $ 129 $ 170 Net amount at risk (4) $ 26 $ 17 Weighted average waiting period until guarantee date 4 years 5 years (1) Defined as the estimated current guaranteed minimum death benefit in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. (2) Defined as the estimated present value of the guaranteed minimum annuity payments in excess of the current account balance. (3) Defined as the estimated current guaranteed minimum withdrawal balance (initial deposit) in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. (4) Defined as the estimated present value of the guaranteed minimum accumulation balance in excess of the current account balance. The liability for death and income benefit guarantees is equal to a benefit ratio multiplied by the cumulative contract charges earned, plus accrued interest less contract excess guarantee benefit payments. The benefit ratio is calculated as the estimated present value of all expected contract excess guarantee benefits divided by the present value of all expected contract charges. The establishment of reserves for these guarantees requires the projection of future fund values, mortality, persistency and customer benefit utilization rates. These assumptions are periodically reviewed and updated. For guarantees related to death benefits, benefits represent the projected excess guaranteed minimum death benefit payments. For guarantees related to income benefits, benefits represent the present value of the minimum guaranteed annuitization benefits in excess of the projected account balance at the time of annuitization. Projected benefits and contract charges used in determining the liability for certain guarantees are developed using models and stochastic scenarios that are also used in the development of estimated expected gross profits. Underlying assumptions for the liability related to income benefits include assumed future annuitization elections based on factors such as the extent of benefit to the potential annuitant, eligibility conditions and the annuitant’s attained age. The liability for guarantees is re-evaluated periodically, and adjustments are made to the liability balance through a charge or credit to life and annuity contract benefits. Guarantees related to the majority of withdrawal and accumulation benefits are considered to be derivative financial instruments; therefore, the liability for these benefits is established based on its fair value. Summary of liabilities for guarantees ($ in millions) Liability for guarantees related to death benefits and interest-sensitive life products Liability for guarantees related to income benefits Liability for guarantees related to accumulation and withdrawal benefits Total Balance, December 31, 2017 (1) $ 262 $ 29 $ 79 $ 370 Less reinsurance recoverables 87 25 34 146 Net balance as of December 31, 2017 175 4 45 224 Incurred guarantee benefits 24 — 13 37 Paid guarantee benefits (2 ) — — (2 ) Net change 22 — 13 35 Net balance as of December 31, 2018 197 4 58 259 Plus reinsurance recoverables 111 35 39 185 Balance, December 31, 2018 (2) $ 308 $ 39 $ 97 $ 444 Balance, December 31, 2016 (3) $ 244 $ 44 $ 77 $ 365 Less reinsurance recoverables 101 40 43 184 Net balance as of December 31, 2016 143 4 34 181 Incurred guarantee benefits 34 — 11 45 Paid guarantee benefits (2 ) — — (2 ) Net change 32 — 11 43 Net balance as of December 31, 2017 175 4 45 224 Plus reinsurance recoverables 87 25 34 146 Balance, December 31, 2017 (1) $ 262 $ 29 $ 79 $ 370 (1) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2017 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $85 million , variable annuity income benefits of $26 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $22 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $12 million and other guarantees of $225 million . (2) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2018 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $109 million , variable annuity income benefits of $36 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $25 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $14 million and other guarantees of $260 million . (3) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2016 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $100 million , variable annuity income benefits of $40 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $34 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $9 million and other guarantees of $182 million .

Reinsurance and Indemnification

Reinsurance and Indemnification	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance and Indemnification	Note 10 Reinsurance and Indemnification Effects of reinsurance and indemnification on property and casualty premiums written and earned and life premiums and contract charges For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property and casualty insurance premiums written Direct $ 35,895 $ 33,685 $ 32,614 Assumed 99 64 47 Ceded (1,008 ) (1,007 ) (1,061 ) Property and casualty insurance premiums written, net of recoverables $ 34,986 $ 32,742 $ 31,600 Property and casualty insurance premiums earned Direct $ 34,977 $ 33,221 $ 32,249 Assumed 87 50 45 Ceded (1,016 ) (971 ) (987 ) Property and casualty insurance premiums earned, net of recoverables $ 34,048 $ 32,300 $ 31,307 Life premiums and contract charges Direct $ 2,001 $ 1,894 $ 1,766 Assumed 754 787 818 Ceded (290 ) (303 ) (309 ) Life premiums and contract charges, net of recoverables $ 2,465 $ 2,378 $ 2,275 Property and casualty reinsurance and indemnification recoverables Total amounts recoverable from reinsurers and indemnitors as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $7.27 billion and $6.57 billion , respectively, including $111 million and $96 million , respectively, related to property and casualty losses paid by the Company and billed to reinsurers and indemnitors, and $7.15 billion and $6.47 billion , respectively, estimated by the Company with respect to ceded or indemnifiable unpaid losses (including IBNR), which are not billable until the losses are paid. The allowance for uncollectible reinsurance was $65 million and $70 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, and is primarily related to reinsurance recoverables arising from the Discontinued Lines and Coverages segment. Indemnification recoverables are considered collectible based on the industry pool and facility enabling legislation. Property and casualty programs are grouped by the following characteristics: 1. Indemnification programs - in dustry pools, facilities or associations that are governed by state insurance statutes or regulations or the federal government. 2. Catastrophe reinsurance programs - reinsurance protection for catastrophe exposure nationwide and by specific states, as applicable. 3. Other reinsurance programs - reinsurance protection for asbestos, environmental and other liability exposures. Property and casualty reinsurance is in place for the Allstate Protection, Discontinued Lines and Coverages and Service Businesses segments. The Company purchases reinsurance after evaluating the financial condition of the reinsurer as well as the terms and price of coverage. Indemnification programs The Company participates in state-based industry pools or facilities mandating participation by insurers offering certain coverage in their state, including the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (“MCCA”), the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (“PLIGA”), the North Carolina Reinsurance Facility (“NCRF”) and the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (“FHCF”). When the Company pays qualifying claims under the coverage indemnified by a state’s pool or facility, the Company is reimbursed for the qualifying claim losses or expenses. Each state pool or facility may assess participating companies to collect sufficient amounts to meet its total indemnification requirements. The enabling legislation for each state’s pool or facility compels the pool or facility only to indemnify participating companies for qualifying claim losses or expenses; the state pool or facility does not underwrite the coverage or take on the ultimate risk of the indemnified business. As a pass through, these pools or facilities manage the receipt of assessments paid by participating companies and payment of indemnified amounts for covered claims presented by participating companies. The Company has not had any credit losses related to these indemnification programs. State-based industry pools or facilities Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association The MCCA is a statutory indemnification mechanism for member insurers’ qualifying personal injury protection claims paid for the unlimited lifetime medical benefits above the applicable retention level for qualifying injuries from automobile, motorcycle and commercial vehicle accidents. Indemnification recoverables on paid and unpaid claims, including IBNR, as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 include $5.40 billion and $5.26 billion , respectively, from the MCCA for its indemnification obligat ion. As required for member companies by the MCCA, the Company reports covered paid and unpaid claims to the MCCA when estimates of loss for a reported claim are expected to exceed the retention level, the claims involve certain types of severe injuries, or there are litigation demands received suggesting the claim value exceeds certain thresholds. The retention level is adjusted upward every other MCCA fiscal year by the lesser of 6% or the increase in the Consumer Price Index. The retention level will be $580 thousand per claim for the fiscal two -years ending June 30, 2021 compared to $555 thousand per claim for the fiscal two -years ending June 30, 2019. The MCCA is obligated to fund the ultimate liability of member companies’ qualifying claims and claim expenses. The MCCA does not underwrite the insurance coverage or hold any underwriting risk. The MCCA is funded by participating member companies (companies actively writing motor vehicle coverage in Michigan) through a per vehicle annual assessment that is currently $192 per vehicle insured. The MCCA is required to assess an amount each year sufficient to cover members’ actuarially determined present value of expected payments on lifetime claims of all persons expected to be catastrophically injured in that year, its operating expenses, and adjustments for the amount of excesses or deficiencies in prior assessments. The assessment is incurred by the Company as policies are written and recovered as a component of premiums from our customers. The MCCA indemnifies members as qualifying claims are paid and billed by members to the MCCA. Unlimited lifetime covered losses result in significant levels of ultimate incurred claim reserves being recorded by member companies along with offsetting indemnification recoverables. Disputes with claimants over coverage on certain reported claims can result in additional losses, which may be recoverable from the MCCA, excluding litigation expenses. The MCCA prepares statutory-basis financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (“MI DOI”). The MI DOI has granted the MCCA a statutory permitted practice that expires in 2019 to discount its liabilities for loss and loss adjustment expense. As of June 30, 2018 , the date of its most recent annual financial report, the MCCA had cash and invested assets of $20.54 billion and an accumulated deficit of $2.92 billion . The permitted practice reduced the accumulated deficit by $47.24 billion . New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association PLIGA serves as the statutory administrator of the Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund (“UCJF”), Workers’ Compensation Security Fund and the New Jersey Surplus Lines Insurance Guaranty Fund. In addition to its insolvency protection responsibilities, PLIGA reimburses insurers for unlimited excess medical benefits (“EMBs”) paid in connection with personal injury protection claims in excess of $75,000 for policies issued or renewed prior to January 1, 1991, and limited EMB claims in excess of $75,000 and capped at $250,000 for policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 1991, to December 31, 2003. A significant portion of the incurred claim reserves and the recoverables can be attributed to a small number of catastrophic claims. Assessments paid to PLIGA for the EMB program totaled $8.9 million in 2018 . The amounts of paid and unpaid recoverables as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $461 million and $493 million , respectively. PLIGA annually assesses all admitted property and casualty insurers writing covered lines in New Jersey for PLIGA indemnification and expenses. PLIGA assessments may be recouped as a surcharge on premiums collected. PLIGA does not ultimately retain underwriting risk as it assesses member companies for their expected qualifying losses to provide funding for payment of its indemnification obligation to member companies for their actual losses. As a pass through, PLIGA facilitates these transactions of receipt of assessments paid by member companies and payment to member companies for covered claims presented by them for indemnification. As of December 31, 2018 , the date of its most rece nt annual financial report, PLIGA had a fund balance of $250 million . As statutory administrator of the UCJF, PLIGA provides compensation to qualified claimants for personal injury protection , bodily injury, or death caused by private passenger automobiles operated by uninsured or “hit and run” drivers. The UCJF also provides private passenger pedestrian personal injury protection benefits when no other coverage is available. PLIGA annually collects a UCJF assessment from all admitted property and casualty insurers writing motor vehicle liabilit y insurance in New Jersey for UCJF indemnification and expenses. UCJF assessments can be expensed as losses recoverable in rates as appropriate. As of December 31, 2018, the date of its most recent annual financial report, the UCJF fund had a balance of $41 million . North Carolina Reinsurance Facility The NCRF provides automobile liability insurance to drivers that insurers are not otherwise willing to insure. All insurers licensed to write automobile insurance in North Carolina are members of the NCRF. Premiums, losses and expenses are assigned to the NCRF. North Carolina law allows the NCRF to recoup operating losses for certain insureds through a surcharge to policyholders. As of September 30, 2018 , the NCRF reported a deficit of $215 million in members’ equity. The NCRF implemented a loss recoupment surcharge on all private passenger policies effective October 1, 2018 , through March 31, 2019 . Member companies are assessed the recoupment surcharge. The loss recoupment surcharge will be adjusted on April 1, 2019 , and discontinued once losses are recovered. The NCRF results are shared by the member companies in proportion to their respective North Carolina automobile liability writings. For the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2018 , net income was $95 million , including $1.1 billion of earned premiums, $206 million of certain private passenger auto risk recoupment and $228 million of member loss recoupments. As of December 31, 2018, the NCRF recoverables on paid claims is $9.8 million and recoverables on unpaid claims is $76.4 million . Paid recoverable balances, if covered, are typically settled within sixty days of monthly filing. Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund Allstate subsidiaries Castle Key Insurance Company (“CKIC”) and Castle Key Indemnity Company (“CKI”, and together with CKIC, “Castle Key”) participate in the mandatory coverage provided by the FHCF and therefore have access to reimbursement for certain qualifying Florida hurricane losses from the FHCF. Castle Key has exposure to assessments and pays annual premiums to the FHCF for this reimbursement protection. The FHCF has the authority to issue bonds to pay its obligations to participating insurers in excess of its capital balances. Payment of these bonds is funded by emergency assessments on all property and casualty premiums in the state, except workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, accident and health insurance and policies written under the National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”). The FHCF emergency assessments are limited to 6% of premiums per year beginning the first year in which reimbursements require bonding, and up to a total of 10% of premiums per year for assessments in the second and subsequent years, if required to fund ad ditional bonding. The FHCF issued $2 billion in pre-event bonds in 2013 to build its capacity to reimburse member companies’ claims. The FHCF plans to fund these pre-event bonds through current FHCF cash flows. Pursuant to an Order issued by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (“ FL OIR”), the emergency assessment is zero for all policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2015. Annual premiums earned and paid under the FHCF agreement were $10 million , $11 million and $12 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Qualifying losses were $143 million and $19 million in 2018 and 2017, respectively. There were no qualifying losses incurred in 2016 . The Company has access to reimbursement provided by the FHCF for 90% of qualifying personal property losses that exceed its current retention of $54 million for the two largest hurricanes and $18 million for other hurricanes, up to a maximum total of $172 million , effective from June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019 . The amounts recoverable from the FHCF totaled $104 million and $19 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Federal Government - National Flood Insurance Program NFIP is a program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) whereby the Company sells and services NFIP flood insurance policies as an agent of FEMA and receives fees for its services. The Company is fully indemnified for claims and claim expenses and does not retain any ultimate risk for the indemnified business. The federal government is obligated to pay all claims and certain allocated loss adjustment expenses in accordance with the arrangement. Congressional authorization for the NFIP is periodically evaluated and may be subjected to freezes, including when the federal government experiences a shutdown. Starting in 2017, FEMA established an NFIP reinsurance program to manage the future exposure of the NFIP through the transfer of risk to private reinsurance companies and capital market investors. Congress is evaluating the funding of the program as well as considering reforms to the program that would be incorporated in legislation to reauthorize the NFIP. The amounts recoverable as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $31 million and $88 million , respectively. Premiums earned under the NFIP include $258 million , $263 million and $274 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Qualifying losses incurred include $118 million , $1.12 billion and $537 million in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Catastrophe reinsurance The Company’s reinsurance program is designed to provide reinsurance protection for catastrophes resulting from multiple perils including hurricanes, windstorms, hail, tornadoes, fires following earthquakes, earthquakes and wildfires. • The majority of our program comprises multi-year contracts, primarily placed in the traditional reinsurance market, such that generally one third of the program is renewed every year. • Coverage is generally purchased on a broad geographic, product line and multiple peril loss basis. • The Company purchases reinsurance from traditional reinsurance companies as well as the insurance linked securities market (e.g. “Property Claims Services Agreements” or “PCS Agreements”). • Florida property and New Jersey property and auto are each covered by separate agreements, as the risk of loss is different and our subsidiaries operating in these states are separately capitalized. The Company has not experienced credit losses on its catastrophe reinsurance programs. The Company ceded premiums earned of $343 million , $344 million and $381 million under catastrophe reinsurance agreements in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company has the following catastrophe reinsurance agreements in effect as of December 31, 2018 : The Nationwide Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Program (the “Nationwide Program”) provides $4.5 billion of reinsurance coverage subject to a $500 million retention and is subject to the amount of reinsurance placed in each of its nine layers. The Nationwide Program comprises four agreements: the Per Occurrence Excess Agreement, the 2014-1 PCS Agreement, the 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract and the 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract. Per Occurrence Excess Agreement , which is placed in the traditional reinsurance market, reinsures personal lines property and automobile excess catastrophe losses caused by multiple perils in every state except New Jersey and only includes personal lines automobile excess catastrophe losses in Florida. The agreement comprises layers one through six and portions of layer eight. Coverage for each of the first through fifth layers comprises three contracts, with each contract providing one-third of 95% of the total layer limit and expiring May 31, 2019, May 31, 2020 and May 31, 2021. The contracts for each layers one through five include one mandatory reinstatement of limits per year, with premium required. $517 million of reinsurance recoveries, including expenses, exhausted layers one through two and partially exhausted layer three due to the impact of the Camp Fire in the fourth quarter of 2018. The Company’s net loss also included $60 million of reinsurance premiums that were accelerated in conjunction with the reinstatement of these layers as of December 31, 2018, and $30 million of incremental reinstatement premiums to be recognized in 2019. The sixth layer and eighth layer contracts placed in the traditional reinsurance market contain comparable contract terms and conditions as layers one through five. The sixth layer is 95% placed and comprises one contract expiring May 31, 2022. The contracts for layers one through six provide $3.07 billion in per occurrence reinsurance limits subject to a $500 million retention. Coverage for a portion of the eighth layer is provided by one contract expiring May 31, 2022. The contract provides a $446 million limit and is 29.37% placed. Unlike layer one through five contracts, the sixth and eighth layer contracts each contain an annual variable reset option which allows for the adjustment of each contract’s attachment and exhaustion levels within specified limits. The variable reset option requires a premium adjustment. The contracts for each of the first through fifth layers include one mandatory reinstatement of limits per year, with premium required. The sixth and eighth layer contracts each contain one mandatory reinstatement of limits over their seven year term with premium required. Reinsurance premiums for all contracts are subject to redetermination for exposure changes on an annual basis. Another contract forming a portion of layer eight provides a $69 million limit in excess of a $2.75 billion retention, is 100% placed and expires May 31, 2019. Reinsurance limits of 5% of $1.25 billion in excess of $2.75 billion are deemed in place. In addition, recoveries from contracts in layers six through and including layer eight inure to the benefit of this contract. 2014-1 PCS Excess Agreement reinsures personal lines property and automobile excess catastrophe losses caused by hurricanes in 29 states and the District of Columbia, and earthquakes, including fires following earthquakes, in California, New York and Washington. The seventh layer contract is placed with a Bermuda insurance company, Sanders Re Ltd. (“Sanders Re”), which obtained funding from the insurance linked securities (“ILS”) market to collateralize the contract’s limit. The contract provides a $321 million limit in excess of a $3.07 billion retention and is 95% placed. The contract’s risk period ends May 21, 2019. Amounts payable under the contract are based on insured industry losses as reported by PCS and further adjusted to account for our exposures in reinsured areas. Reinsurance recoveries under the contract are limited to our ultimate net loss from a PCS-reported hurricane or earthquake. The contracts do not include a reinstatement of limits. 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract reinsures personal lines property and automobile excess losses in 48 states and the District of Columbia, excluding Florida and initially New Jersey, caused by named storms, earthquakes and fires following earthquakes, severe thunderstorms, winter storms, volcanic eruptions, and meteorite impacts. This contract is included in the eighth layer and reinsures actual losses to personal lines property business located in the covered territory and arising out of a covered event. Amounts payable for automobile losses are based on insured industry losses as reported by PCS and further adjusted to account for the Company’s auto exposures in reinsured areas. Reinsurance recoveries under the contract are limited to our ultimate net loss from a covered event subject to the contract’s limit. The contract’s risk period began March 31, 2017 and terminates on November 30, 2021. The contract provides a $571 million limit and is 65.63% placed between a $3.40 billion to $3.97 billion layer. The contract contains a variable reset option, which the ceding entities may invoke for risk periods subsequent to the first risk period and which allows for the annual adjustment of the contract’s attachment and exhaustion levels within specified limits. The variable reset option requires a premium adjustment. The contract does not include a restatement of limits. 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract reinsures personal lines property and automobile excess catastrophe losses in 48 states and the District of Columbia, excluding Florida and initially New Jersey, caused by named storms, earthquakes and fires following earthquakes, severe weather, wildfires, and other naturally occurring or man-made events determined to be a catastrophe by the Company. The ninth layer contract reinsures business located in the covered territory and arising out of a covered event. The contract’s risk period began April 1, 2018 and terminates on March 31, 2022. The contract provides one limit of $500 million during its four-year term, which can be used on a per occurrence or aggregate basis. For each qualifying loss occurrence, the contract provides 100% of $500 million in reinsurance limits between a $4.00 billion to $4.50 billion layer for the April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019 period. The contract also provides an aggregate limit of 100% of $500 million in reinsurance limits between a $3.75 billion to $4.25 billion layer subject to an annual retention of $3.75 billion . For each annual period beginning April 1, Company declared catastrophes occurring during such annual period involving two or more exposures and resulting in more than $1 million in losses to personal lines property and automobile business can be aggregated to erode the aggregate retention and qualify for coverage under the aggregate limit. Reinsurance recoveries from and including layers one through eight of the Nationwide Program inure to the benefit of the aggregate. Reinsurance recoveries collected under the per occurrence limit of this contract are not eligible for cession under the aggregate limit of this contract. Reinsurance recoveries for all loss occurrences and aggregate losses qualifying for coverage during the contract’s four -year risk period are limited to our ultimate net loss from a covered event and subject to the contract’s $500 million limit. The contract contains a variable reset option, which the ceding entities may invoke for risk periods subsequent to the first risk period which allows for the annual adjustment of the contract’s attachment and exhaustion levels within specified limits. The variable reset option requires a premium adjustment. The contract does not include a reinstatement of limits. While the 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract and the 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Contract do not provide reinsurance recoveries for New Jersey exposures for the risk period beginning March 31, 2017 and April 1, 2018, respectively, the contracts each allow for the inclusion of these exposures in the remaining risk periods if so elected and with premium due. The following programs are designed apart from the Nationwide Program to address distinct exposures in certain states and markets. These programs are described below and are disregarded when determining coverage under the contracts included in the Nationwide Program. The Company has a separate reinsurance program in Florida designed to cover personal lines property policies in Florida written through Castle Key, its separately capitalized wholly-owned subsidiaries. Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement comprises five contracts, as described below, which reinsures Castle Key for personal lines property excess catastrophe losses in Florida. The agreement includes two contracts placed in the traditional market, CKIC’s and CKI’s reimbursement contracts with the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (“Mandatory FHCF contracts”), and the Sanders Re 2017-2 Contract (“Sanders Re 2017-2 contract”) placed in the ILS markets. Below FHCF Contract reinsures personal lines property excess catastrophe losses caused by multiple perils in Florida. The contract is 100% placed and provides three separate limits of $36 million in excess of a $20 million retention for each occurrence, of which two limits remain outstanding. One limit of $36 million was exhausted from the impact of Hurricane Michael in October 2018. The first reinstatement of limits is prepaid and the second or final reinstatement requires additional premium. Only the portion of the limit utilized to indemnify losses from an event mandatorily reinstates; the remaining reinstatement limit remains available and will be used as future events erode the per occurrence contract limit. Reinsurance premium is subject to redetermination for exposure changes. Mandatory FHCF Contracts indemnify qualifying personal lines property losses caused by storms the National Hurricane Center declares to be hurricanes. The contracts provide 90% of $180 million of limits in excess of retention with no reinstatement of limits. The limits and retentions of the mandatory FHCF contracts are calculated independently for CKIC and CKI and are subject to re-measurement based on June 30, 2018 exposure data. For each of the two largest hurricanes, the retention is $56 million and retention equal to one third of that amount, or approximately $19 million , is applicable to all other hurricanes for the season beginning June 1, 2018. In addition, the FHCF’s retention is subject to adjustment upward or downward to an actual retention based on submitted exposures to the FHCF by all participants. $113 million of limit was exhausted from the impact of Hurricane Michael and $67 million of the limit remains outstanding. Excess contract reinsures personal lines property excess catastrophe losses caused by multiple perils in Florida. The contract is a two-year term contract effective June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2020 and provides $249 million of reinsurance limits each contract year. For the June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019 term, the contract provides one limit of $249 million in excess of a $20 million retention and is 100% placed. Recoveries from the Below FHCF contract and Mandatory FHCF contracts inure to the benefit of this contract. For the second contract year, the retention and inuring coverages can be adjusted, within a range and for a premium. The contract does not include a reinstatement of limits. $42 million of limit was exhausted for Hurricane Michael. Reinsurance premium is subject to redetermination for exposure changes. Sanders Re 2017-2 is a three -year term contract with a risk period effective June 1, 2017 through May 31, 2020. It reinsures qualifying personal lines property losses caused by a named storm event, a severe thunderstorm event, an earthquake event, a wildfire event, a volcanic eruption event, or a meteorite impact event in Florida as events declared by various reporting agencies, including PCS and as defined in the contract. The contract provides limits of $200 million in excess of a $20 million retention and in excess of “stated reinsurance.” For the June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019 risk period, stated reinsurance is defined to include the Below FHCF contract, the Mandatory FHCF contracts, which are deemed to exhaust due to loss occurrences subject to the non-FHCF contracts, and the Excess contract. Stated reinsurance is deemed to be provided on a multiple peril basis under the terms of the non-FHCF contracts and includes an erosion feature, which provides that upon the exhaustion of a portion of the stated reinsurance, coverage under the Sanders Re contract shall be concurrently placed above and contiguous to the unexhausted portion of the stated reinsurance, if any. The Sanders Re 2017-2 contract contains a variable reset option, which Castle Key may invoke for risk periods subsequent to the first risk period and which allows for the annual adjustment of the contract’s attachment and exhaustion levels. The variable reset option requires a premium adjustment. The contract does not contain a restatement of limits. The Company’s New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Florida and Southeast States and California reinsurance agreements are described below. New Jersey Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement comprises two existing contracts and a newly placed contract that reinsures personal lines property and automobile excess catastrophe losses in New Jersey caused by multiple perils. The newly placed contract effective June 1, 2018, also includes coverage for commercial lines property and automobile (physical damage only) catastrophe losses. The contracts expire May 31, 2019, May 31, 2020 and May 31, 2021, and provide 31.67% , 31.67% and 31.66% , respectively, of $400 million of limits excess of a provisional $139 million retention, a $142 million retention, and a $150 million retention, respectively. Each contract includes one mandatory reinstatement of limits per contract year with premium due. The reinsurance premium and retention are subject to redetermination for exposure changes on an annual basis. Kentucky Earthquake Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract is a three -year contract that reinsures personal lines property excess catastrophe losses in Kentucky caused by earthquakes and fires following earthquakes. The contract expires May 31, 2020 and provides three limits of $28 million in excess of a $2 million retention with two limits being available in any one contract year and is 95% placed. The reinsurance premium and retention are not subject to redetermination for exposure changes. Aggregate Excess Catastrophe Florida and Southeast States Reinsurance Contract provides $250 million of reinsurance limits for losses to personal lines and commercial lines automobile business (physical damage only) arising out of multiple perils and provided such losses arise out of a company declared catastrophe and result in qualifying losses in the State of Florida. Once qualifying losses are incurred in the State of Florida, coverage is also provided for losses to personal lines and commercial lines automobile business (physical damage only) arising out of the same catastrophe and occurring in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina. The $250 million of reinsurance limits is subject to a $250 million aggregate retention for losses arising out of one or all qualifying catastrophes commencing during the contract’s one-year term. The contract does not include a restatement of limits. California E&S Earthquake Contract comprises one contract which reinsures personal lines property catastrophe losses in California caused by earthquake and insured by our excess and surplus lines insurer. The contract is a three-year contract that is effective June 30, 2018 and expires June 30, 2021. Unlike the contracts comprising the Nationwide Program, the E&S Earthquake agreement provides reinsurance on a 100% quota share basis with no retention. The agreement reinsures only shake damage resulting from the earthquake peril. Other reinsurance programs The Company’s other reinsurance programs relate to asbestos, environmental, and other liability exposures. These programs include reinsurance recoverables of $165 million and $167 million from Lloyd’s of Lo ndon as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Excluding Lloyd’s of London, the largest reinsurance recoverable balance the Company had outstanding was $60 million and $61 million from Westport Insurance Corporation as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Developments in the insurance and reinsurance industries have fostered a movement to

Deferred Policy Acquisition and

Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs	Note 11 Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs Deferred policy acquisition costs activity For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 4,191 $ 3,954 $ 3,861 SquareTrade acquisition — 66 — Acquisition costs deferred (1) 5,663 5,001 4,717 Amortization charged to income (1) (5,222 ) (4,784 ) (4,550 ) Effect of unrealized gains and losses 152 (46 ) (74 ) Balance, end of year $ 4,784 $ 4,191 $ 3,954 Deferred sales inducement costs activity (2) For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 36 $ 40 $ 45 Sales inducements deferred — — 1 Amortization charged to income (4 ) (4 ) (5 ) Effect of unrealized gains and losses 2 — (1 ) Balance, end of year $ 34 $ 36 $ 40 (1) Includes $152 million of acquisition costs deferred and $101 million of amortization charged to income related to the revenue from contracts with customers accounting standard adopted in 2018. (2) Deferred sales inducement costs primarily relate to fixed annuities and interest-sensitive life contracts and are recorded as part of other assets on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Capital Structure

Capital Structure	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Capital Structure
Capital Structure	Note 12 Capital Structure Total debt outstanding As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 6.75% Senior Debentures, due 2018 $ — $ 176 7.45% Senior Notes, due 2019 (1) 317 317 Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2021 (1) 250 — Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2023 (1) 250 — 3.15% Senior Notes, due 2023 (1) 500 500 Due after one year through five years 1,317 993 3.28% Senior Notes, due 2026 (1) 550 550 Due after five years through ten years 550 550 6.125% Senior Notes, due 2032 (1) 159 159 5.35% Senior Notes due 2033 (1) 323 323 5.55% Senior Notes due 2035 (1) 546 546 5.95% Senior Notes, due 2036 (1) 386 386 6.90% Senior Debentures, due 2038 165 165 5.20% Senior Notes, due 2042 (1) 62 62 4.50% Senior Notes, due 2043 (1) 500 500 4.20% Senior Notes, due 2046 (1) 700 700 5.10% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053 500 500 5.75% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053 800 800 6.125% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067 — 224 6.50% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067 500 500 Due after ten years 4,641 4,865 Long-term debt total principal 6,508 6,408 Debt issuance costs (57 ) (58 ) Total long-term debt 6,451 6,350 Short-term debt (2) — — Total debt $ 6,451 $ 6,350 (1) Senior Notes, with the exception of Senior Floating Notes (as defined below), are subject to redemption at the Company’s option in whole or in part at any time at the greater of either 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date or the discounted sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest and accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. (2) The Company classifies any borrowings which have a maturity of twelve months or less at inception as short-term debt. Debt maturities for each of the next five years and thereafter ($ in millions) 2019 $ 317 2020 — 2021 250 2022 — 2023 750 Thereafter 5,191 Total long-term debt principal $ 6,508 On March 29, 2018, the Company issued $250 million of Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2021 (“2021 Senior Floating Notes”) and $250 million of Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2023 (“2023 Senior Floating Notes” and, together with the 2021 Senior Floating Notes, the “Senior Floating Notes”). The 2021 Senior Floating Notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to three month LIBOR, reset quarterly on each interest reset date, plus 0.43% per year and the 2023 Senior Floating Notes bear interest at a floating rate equal to three month LIBOR, reset quarterly on each interest reset date, plus 0.63% per year. Interest on the Senior Floating Notes is payable quarterly in arrears on March 29, June 29, September 29 and December 29 of each year, which began on June 29, 2018. The 2021 Senior Floating Notes will mature on March 29, 2021, and the 2023 Senior Floating Notes will mature on March 29, 2023. The Senior Floating Notes will not be redeemable prior to the applicable maturity dates. The proceeds of these issuances were used for general corporate purposes , including the redemption of the Series B 6.125% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debentures (the “Series B Debentures”) on May 13, 2018 and the repayment at maturity of the Company’s 6.75% Senior Debentures due May 15, 2018 . On May 13, 2018, the Company redeemed its $224 million Series B Debentures at a redemption price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal. On May 15, 2018, the Company repaid $176 million of 6.75% Senior Debentures at maturity. The repayment was equal to 100% of the outstanding principal. The Subordinated Debentures may be redeemed (i) in whole at any time or in part from time to time on or after January 15, 2023 for the 5.10% Subordinated Debentures and August 15, 2023 for the 5.75% Subordinated Debentures at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption; provided that if the Subordinated Debentures are not redeemed in whole, at least $25 million aggregate principal amount must remain outstanding, or (ii) in whole, but not in part, prior to January 15, 2023 for the 5.10% Subordinated Debentures and August 15, 2023 for the 5.75% Subordinated Debentures, within 90 days after the occurrence of certain tax and rating agency events, at their principal amount or, if greater, a make-whole redemption price, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption. The 5.75% Subordinated Debentures have this make-whole redemption price provision only when a reduction of equity credit assigned by a rating agency has occurred. Interest on the 5.10% Subordinated Debentures is payable quarterly at the stated fixed annual rate to January 14, 2023, or any earlier redemption date, and then at an annual rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 3.165% . Interest on the 5.75% Subordinated Debentures is payable semi-annually at the stated fixed annual rate to August 14, 2023, or any earlier redemption date, and then quarterly at an annual rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 2.938% . The Company may elect to defer payment of interest on the Subordinated Debentures for one or more consecutive interest periods that do not exceed five years . During a deferral period, interest will continue to accrue on the Subordinated Debentures at the then-applicable rate and deferred interest will compound on each interest payment date. If all deferred interest on the Subordinated Debentures is paid, the Company can again defer interest payments. As of December 31, 2018, the Company had outstanding $500 million of Series A 6.50% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Junior Subordinated Debentures (“Debentures”). The scheduled maturity date for the Debentures is May 15, 2057 with a final maturity date of May 15, 2067. The Debentures may be redeemed (i) in whole or in part, at any time on or after May 15, 2037 at the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption, or (ii) in certain circumstances, in whole or in part, prior to May 15, 2037 at the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption or, if greater, a make-whole price. Interest on the Debentures is payable semi-annually at the stated fixed annual rate to May 15, 2037, and then payable quarterly at an annual rate equal to the three-month LIBOR plus 2.12% . The Company may elect at one or more times to defer payment of interest on the Debentures for one or more consecutive interest periods that do not exceed 10 years. Interest compounds during such deferral periods at the rate in effect for each period. The interest deferral feature obligates the Company in certain circumstances to issue common stock or certain other types of securities if it cannot otherwise raise sufficient funds to make the required interest payments. The Company has reserved 75 million shares of its authorized and unissued common stock to satisfy this obligation. The terms of the Company’s outstanding subordinated debentures prohibit the Company from declaring or paying any dividends or distributions on common or preferred stock or redeeming, purchasing, acquiring, or making liquidation payments on common stock or preferred stock if the Company has elected to defer interest payments on the subordinated debentures, subject to certain limited exceptions. In connection with the issuance of the Debentures, the Company entered into a replacement capital covenant (“RCC”). This covenant was not intended for the benefit of the holders of the Debentures and could not be enforced by them. Rather, it was for the benefit of holders of one or more other designated series of the Company’s indebtedness (“covered debt”), currently the 5.75% Subordinated Debentures due 2053. Pursuant to the RCC, the Company has agreed that it will not repay, redeem, or purchase the Debentures on or before May 15, 2067 (or such earlier date on which the RCC terminates by its terms) unless, subject to certain limitations, the Company has received net cash proceeds in specified amounts from the sale of common stock or certain other qualifying securities. The promises and covenants contained in the RCC will not apply if (i) S&P upgrades the Company’s issuer credit rating to A or above, (ii) the Company redeems the Debentures due to a tax event, (iii) after notice of redemption has been given by the Company and a market disruption event occurs preventing the Company from raising proceeds in accordance with the RCC, or (iv) the Company repurchases or redeems up to 10% of the outstanding principal of the Debentures in any one -year period, provided that no more than 25% will be so repurchased, redeemed or purchased in any ten -year period. The RCC terminates in 2067. The RCC will terminate prior to its scheduled termination date if (i) the Debentures are no longer outstanding and the Company has fulfilled its obligations under the RCC or it is no longer applicable, (ii) the holders of a majority of the then-outstanding principal amount of the then-effective series of covered debt consent to agree to the termination of the RCC, (iii) the Company does not have any series of outstanding debt that is eligible to be treated as covered debt under the RCC, (iv) the Debentures are accelerated as a result of an event of default, (v) certain rating agency or change in control events occur, (vi) S&P, or any successor thereto, no longer assigns a solicited rating on senior debt issued or guaranteed by the Company, or (vii) the termination of the RCC would have no effect on the equity credit provided by S&P with respect to the Debentures. An event of default, as defined by the supplemental indenture, includes default in the payment of interest or principal and bankruptcy proceedings. To manage short-term liquidity, the Company maintains a commercial paper program and a credit facility as a potential source of funds. These include a $1.00 billion unsecured revolving credit facility and a commercial paper program with a borrowing limit of $1.00 billion . In April 2016, the Company extended the maturity date of the facility to April 2021. This facility contains an increase provision that would allow up to an additional $500 million of borrowing. This facility has a financial covenant requiring the Company not to exceed a 37.5% debt to capitalization ratio as defined in the agreement. Although the right to borrow under the facility is not subject to a minimum rating requirement, the costs of maintaining the facility and borrowing under it are based on the ratings of the Company’s senior unsecured, unguaranteed long-term debt. The total amount outstanding at any point in time under the combination of the commercial paper program and the credit facility cannot exceed the amount that can be borrowed under the credit facility. No amounts were outstanding under the credit facility as of December 31, 2018 or 2017 . The Company had no commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2018 or 2017 . The Company paid $330 million , $332 million and $287 million of interest on debt in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company had $260 million and $169 million of investment-related debt that is reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. During 2018, the Company filed a universal shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) that expires in 2021. The registration statement covers an unspecified amount of securities and can be used to issue debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, depositary shares, warrants, stock purchase contracts, stock purchase units and securities of trust subsidiaries. Common stock The Company had 900 million shares of issued common stock of which 332 million shares were outstanding and 568 million shares were held in treasury as of December 31, 2018 . In 2018 , the Company acquired 25 million shares at an average cost of $88.07 and reissued 2 million net shares under equity incentive plans. Preferred stock All outstanding preferred stock represents noncumulative perpetual preferred stock with a $1.00 par value per share and a liquidation preference of $25,000 per share. Total preferred stock outstanding As of December 31, Aggregate liquidation preference ($ in millions) Dividend per depository share (1) Aggregate dividend payment ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Dividend rate 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Series A 11,500 11,500 $ 287.5 $ 287.5 5.625 % $ 1.41 $ 1.41 $ 1.41 $ 16 $ 16 $ 16 Series C — 15,400 — 385.0 6.750 % 1.69 1.69 1.69 26 (2) 26 26 Series D 5,400 5,400 135.0 135.0 6.625 % 1.66 1.66 1.66 9 9 9 Series E 29,900 29,900 747.5 747.5 6.625 % 1.66 1.66 1.66 49 49 49 Series F 10,000 10,000 250.0 250.0 6.250 % 1.56 1.56 1.56 16 16 16 Series G 23,000 — 575.0 — 5.625 % 1.41 — — 18 — — Total 79,800 72,200 $ 1,995 $ 1,805 $ 134 (2) $ 116 $ 116 (1) Each depositary share represents a 1/1,000 th interest in a share of preferred stock. (2) Excludes $13 million related to the excess of redemption price over carrying value recognized as part of preferred stock dividends on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity. On October 15, 2018, the Company redeemed all 15,400 shares of its Fixed Rate Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C (the “Series C Preferred Stock”), par value $1.00 per share and liquidation preference $25,000 per share and the corresponding depositary shares for a total redemption payment of $385 million . The redemption price in excess of the carrying value for the preferred shares was recognized as part of preferred stock dividends on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity. On March 29, 2018, the Company issued 23,000 shares of 5.625% Fixed Rate Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G, par value $1.00 per share and liquidation preference $25,000 per share, for gross proceeds of $575 million . The proceeds of this issuance were used for general corporate purposes, including the redemption of the Series C Preferred Stock . The preferred stock ranks senior to the Company’s common stock with respect to the payment of dividends and liquidation rights. The Company will pay dividends on the preferred stock on a noncumulative basis only when, as and if declared by the Company’s board of directors (or a duly authorized committee of the board) and to the extent that the Company has legally available funds to pay dividends. If dividends are declared on the preferred stock, they will be payable quarterly in arrears at an annual fixed rate. Dividends on the preferred stock are not cumulative. Accordingly, in the event dividends are not declared on the preferred stock for payment on any dividend payment date, then those dividends will cease to be payable. If the Company has not declared a dividend before the dividend payment date for any dividend period, the Company has no obligation to pay dividends for that dividend period, whether or not dividends are declared for any future dividend period. No dividends may be paid or declared on the Company’s common stock and no shares of the Company’s common stock may be repurchased unless the full dividends for the latest completed dividend period on the preferred stock have been declared and paid or provided for. The Company is prohibited from declaring or paying dividends on preferred stock in excess of the amount of net proceeds from an issuance of common stock taking place within 90 days before a dividend declaration date if, on that dividend declaration date, either: (1) the risk-based capital ratios of the largest U.S. property-casualty insurance subsidiaries that collectively account for 80% or more of the net written premiums of U.S. property-casualty insurance business on a weighted average basis were less than 175% of their company action level risk-based capital as of the end of the most recent year; or (2) consolidated net income for the four-quarter period ending on the preliminary quarter end test date (the quarter that is two quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter) is zero or negative and consolidated shareholders’ equity (excluding AOCI, and subject to certain other adjustments relating to changes in U.S. GAAP) as of each of the preliminary quarter test date and the most recently completed quarter has declined by 20% or more from its level as measured at the end of the benchmark quarter (the date that is ten quarters prior to the most recently completed quarter). If the Company fails to satisfy either of these tests on any dividend declaration date, the restrictions on dividends will continue until the Company is able again to satisfy the test on a dividend declaration date. In addition, in the case of a restriction arising under (2) above, the restrictions on dividends will continue until consolidated shareholders’ equity (excluding AOCI, and subject to certain other adjustments relating to changes in U.S. GAAP) has increased, or has declined by less than 20% , in either case as compared to its level at the end of the benchmark quarter for each dividend payment date as to which dividend restrictions were imposed. The preferred stock does not have voting rights except with respect to certain changes in the terms of the preferred stock, in the case of certain dividend nonpayments, certain other fundamental corporate events, mergers or consolidations and as otherwise provided by law. If and when dividends have not been declared and paid in full for at least six quarterly dividend periods or their equivalent (whether or not consecutive), the authorized number of directors then constituting our board of directors will be increased by two . The holders of the preferred stock, together with the holders of all other affected classes and series of voting parity stock, voting as a single class, will be entitled to elect the two additional members of the board of directors of the Company, subject to certain conditions. The board of directors shall at no time have more than two preferred stock directors. The preferred stock is perpetual and has no maturity date. The preferred stock is redeemable at the Company’s option in whole or in part, on or after June 15, 2018 for Series A, April 15, 2019 for Series D and E, October 15, 2019 for Series F, and April 15, 2023 for Series G, at a redemption price of $25,000 per share of preferred stock, plus declared and unpaid dividends. Prior to April 15, 2019 for Series D and E, October 15, 2019 for Series F, and April 15, 2023 for Series G, the preferred stock is redeemable at the Company’s option, in whole but not in part, within 90 days of the occurrence of certain rating agency events at a redemption price equal to $25,000 per share or, if greater, a make-whole redemption price, plus declared and unpaid dividends.

Company Restructuring

Company Restructuring	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Company Restructuring	Note 13 Company Restructuring The Company undertakes various programs to reduce expenses. These programs generally involve a reduction in staffing levels, and in certain cases, office closures. Restructuring and related charges primarily include employee severance and relocation benefits, and post-exit rent expenses in connection with these programs, and non-cash charges resulting from pension benefit payments made to agents and certain legal expenses and settlements incurred in connection with the 1999 reorganization of Allstate’s multiple agency programs to a single exclusive agency program (“1999 reorganization”). The expenses related to these activities are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as restructuring and related charges, and totaled $67 million , $96 million and $18 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Restructuring expenses in 2018 primarily related to realignment of certain employees to centralized talent centers as well as legal settlements and expenses. Restructuring activity during the period ($ in millions) Employee costs Exit costs Total liability Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2017 $ 15 $ 30 $ 45 Expense incurred 50 20 70 Adjustments to liability (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) Payments and non-cash pension settlements (35 ) (33 ) (68 ) Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2018 $ 29 $ 15 $ 44 The payments applied against the liability for employee costs primarily reflect severance costs, and the payments for exit costs generally consist of post-exit rent expenses and contract termination penalties. As of December 31, 2018 , the cumulative amount incurred to date for active programs related to employee severance, relocation benefits and post-exit rent expenses totaled $91 million for employee costs and $11 million for exit costs. The cumulative amounts exclude $59 million of employee costs and $99 million of exit costs related to the 1999 reorganization. In 2018, the Company settled the litigation related to the 1999 reorganization and therefore, this matter is no longer an active program.

Commitments, Guarantees and Con

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities	Note 14 Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities Leases The Company leases certain office facilities, computer and office equipment, aircraft and automobiles. Total rent expense for all leases was $151 million , $149 million and $147 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Minimum rental commitments under operating leases with an initial or remaining term of more than one year as of December 31, 2018 are in the following table: ($ in millions) 2019 $ 130 2020 121 2021 96 2022 80 2023 65 Thereafter 151 Total $ 643 Shared markets and state facility assessments The Company is required to participate in assigned risk plans, reinsurance facilities and joint underwriting associations in various states that provide insurance coverage to individuals or entities that otherwise are unable to purchase such coverage from private insurers. The Company routinely reviews its exposure to assessments from these plans, facilities and government programs. Underwriting results related to these arrangements, which tend to be adverse, have been immaterial to the Company’s results of operations. Because of the Company’s participation, it may be exposed to losses that surpass the capitalization of these facilities and/or assessments from these facilities. Florida Citizens Castle Key is subject to assessments from Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in the state of Florida (“FL Citizens”), which was initially created by the state of Florida to provide insurance to property owners unable to obtain coverage in the private insurance market. FL Citizens, at the discretion and direction of its Board of Governors (“FL Citizens Board”), can levy a regular assessment on assessable insurers and assessable insureds for a deficit in any calendar year up to a maximum of the greater of: 2% of the projected deficit or 2% of the aggregate statewide direct written premium for the prior calendar year. The base of assessable insurers includes all property and casualty premiums in the state, except workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, accident and health insurance and policies written under the NFIP. An insurer may recoup a regular assessment through a surcharge to policyholders. In order to recoup this assessment, an insurer must file for a policy surcharge with the FL OIR at least fifteen days prior to imposing the surcharge on policies. If a deficit remains after the regular assessment, FL Citizens’ can also levy emergency assessments in the current and subsequent years. Companies are required to collect the emergency assessments directly from residential property policyholders and remit to FL Citizens as collected. Currently, the emergency assessment is zero for all policies issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2015. Louisiana Citizens The Company is also subject to assessments from Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (“LA Citizens”). LA Citizens can levy a regular assessment on participating companies for a deficit in any calendar year up to a maximum of the greater of 10% of the calendar year deficit or 10% of Louisiana direct property premiums industry-wide for the prior calendar year. If the plan year deficit exceeds the amount that can be recovered through Regular Assessments, LA Citizens may fund the remaining deficit by issuing revenue assessment bonds in the capital markets. LA Citizens then declares Emergency Assessments each year to provide debt service on the bonds until they are retired. Companies writing assessable lines must surcharge their policyholders Emergency Assessments in the percentage established annually by LA Citizens and must remit amounts collected to the bond trustee on a quarterly basis. Emergency assessments to pay off bonds issued in 2007 for the hurricanes of 2005 will continue until 2025. Facilities such as FL Citizens and LA Citizens are generally designed so that the ultimate cost is borne by policyholders; however, the exposure to assessments from these facilities and the availability of recoupments or premium rate increases may not offset each other in the Company’s financial statements. Moreover, even if they do offset each other, they may not offset each other in financial statements for the same fiscal period due to the ultimate timing of the assessments and recoupments or premium rate increases, as well as the possibility of policies not being renewed in subsequent years. California Earthquake Authority Exposure to certain potential losses from earthquakes in California is limited by the Company’s participation in the California Earthquake Authority (“CEA”), which provides insurance for California earthquake losses. The CEA is a privately-financed, publicly-managed state agency created to provide insurance coverage for earthquake damage. Insurers selling homeowners insurance in California are required to offer earthquake insurance to their customers either through their company or by participation in the CEA. The Company’s homeowners policies continue to include coverages for losses caused by explosions, theft, glass breakage and fires following an earthquake, which are not underwritten by the CEA. As of September 30, 2018 , the CEA’s capital balance was approximately $5.54 billion . Should losses arising from an earthquake cause a deficit in the CEA, an additional $682 million would be obtained from the proceeds of revenue bonds the CEA may issue, an existing $8.15 billion reinsurance layer, and finally, if needed, assessments on participating insurance companies. Participating insurers are required to pay an assessment, currently estimated not to exceed $1.66 billion , if the capital of the CEA falls below $350 million . Within the limits previously described, the assessment could be intended to restore the CEA’s capital to a level of $350 million . There is no provision that allows insurers to recover assessments through a premium surcharge or other mechanism. The CEA’s projected aggregate claim paying capacity is $16.02 billion as of September 30, 2018 and if an event were to result in claims greater than its capacity, affected policyholders may be paid a prorated portion of their covered losses, paid on an installment basis, or no payments may be made if the claim paying capacity of the CEA is insufficient. All future assessments on participating CEA insurers are based on their CEA insurance market share as of December 31 of the preceding year. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company’s market share was 10.2% . The Company does not expect its market share to materially change. At this level, the Company’s maximum possible CEA assessment would be $168.8 million during 2019 . These amounts are re-evaluated by the board of directors of the CEA on an annual basis. Accordingly, assessments from the CEA for a particular quarter or annual period may be material to the results of operations and cash flows, but not the financial position of the Company. Management believes the Company’s exposure to earthquake losses in California has been significantly reduced as a result of its participation in the CEA. Texas Windstorm Insurance Association The Company participates as a member of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (“TWIA”), which provides wind and hail property coverage to coastal risks unable to procure coverage in the voluntary market. Wind and hail coverage is written on a TWIA-issued policy. TWIA follows a funding structure first utilizing currently available funds set aside from current and prior years. Under the current law, to the extent losses exceed premiums received from policyholders, TWIA utilizes a combination of reinsurance, TWIA issued securities, as well as member and policyholder assessments to fund loss payments. During 2018 , the TWIA Board announced assessments related to Hurricane Harvey for which the Company’s share was $37 million . These costs were recorded in property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense as catastrophe losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Any assessments from TWIA for a particular quarter or annual period may be material to the results of operations and cash flows, but not to the financial position of the Company. Texas Fair Plan Association The Company participates as a member of the Texas Fair Plan Association (“FAIR Plan”), which provides residential property insurance to inland areas designated as underserved by the Commissioner of Insurance and the applicant(s) are unable to procure coverage in the voluntary market. The FAIR Plan issues insurance policies, like an insurance company, and it also functions as a pooling mechanism that allocates premiums, claims and expenses back to the insurance industry. As a result of the losses incurred related to Hurricane Harvey, in 2017 the FAIR Pla n Board unanimously voted to approve its first ever member assessment of which the Company’s share was $8 million based on total direct premium written in Texas. Insurers are permitted to recover the assessment through either a premium surcharge applied to existing customers over a three-year period or increased rates, but the ability to fully recover the assessment may be impacted by market conditions or other factors. North Carolina Joint Underwriters Association The North Carolina Joint Underwriters Association (“NCJUA”) was created to provide property insurance for properties (other than the state’s beach and coastal areas) that insurers are not otherwise willing to insure. All insurers licensed to write property insurance in North Carolina are members of the NCJUA. Premiums, losses and expenses of the NCJUA are shared by the member companies in proportion to their respective North Carolina property insurance writings. Member companies participate in plan deficits or surpluses based on their participation ratios, which are determined annually. The Company had a $4.1 million receivable from the NCJUA at December 31, 2018 and had paid a $5.3 million assessment in 2018, representing our participation in the NCJUA’s deficit of $20.4 million for all open years. North Carolina Insurance Underwriting Association The North Carolina Insurance Underwriting Association (“NCIUA”) provides windstorm and hail coverage as well as homeowners policies for properties located in the state’s beach and coastal areas that insurers are not otherwise willing to insure. All insurers licensed to write residential and commercial property insurance in North Carolina are members of the NCIUA. Members are assessed in proportion to their North Carolina residential and commercial property insurance writings, which is determined annually and varies by coverage, for plan deficits. As of December 31, 2018, the NCIUA had a surplus of $720.5 million . No member company shall be entitled to the distribution of any portion of the Association’s surplus. The Company does not recognize any interest related to this surplus. Legislation in 2009 capped insurers’ assessments for losses incurred in any calendar year at $1 billion . Subsequent to an industry assessment of $1 billion , if the plan continues to require funding, it may authorize insurers to assess a 10% catastrophe recovery charge on each property insurance policy statewide to be remitted to the plan. Other programs The Company is also subject to assessments by the NCRF and the FHCF, which are described in Note 10. Guaranty funds Under state insurance guaranty fund laws, insurers doing business in a state can be assessed, up to prescribed limits, for certain obligations of insolvent insurance companies to policyholders and claimants. Amounts assessed to each company are typically related to its proportion of business written in each state. The Company’s policy is to accrue assessments when the entity for which the insolvency relates has met its state of domicile’s statutory definition of insolvency, the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable and the related premium upon which the assessment is based is written. In most states, the definition is met with a declaration of financial insolvency by a court of competent jurisdiction. In certain states there must also be a final order of liquidation. Since most states allow a credit against premium or other state related taxes for assessments, an asset is recorded based on paid and accrued assessments for the amount the Company expects to recover on the respective state’s tax return and is realized over the period allowed by each state. As of both December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the liability balance included in other liabilities and accrued expenses was $12 million . The related premium tax offsets included in other assets were $16 million and $19 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Guarantees Related to the sale of Lincoln Benefit Life Company on April 1, 2014, ALIC agreed to indemnify Resolution Life Holdings, Inc. in connection with certain representations, warranties and covenants of ALIC, and certain liabilities specifically excluded from the transaction, subject to specific contractual limitations regarding ALIC’s maximum obligation. Management does not believe these indemnifications will have a material effect on results of operations, cash flows or financial position of the Company. Related to the disposal through reinsurance of substantially all of its variable annuity business to Prudential in 2006, the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries, ALIC and ALNY, have agreed to indemnify Prudential for certain pre-closing contingent liabilities (including extra-contractual liabilities of ALIC and ALNY and liabilities specifically excluded from the transaction) that ALIC and ALNY have agreed to retain. In addition, the Company, ALIC and ALNY will each indemnify Prudential for certain post-closing liabilities that may arise from the acts of ALIC, ALNY and their agents, including certain liabilities arising from ALIC’s and ALNY’s provision of transition services. The reinsurance agreements contain no limitations or indemnifications with regard to insurance risk transfer and transferred all of the future risks and responsibilities for performance on the underlying variable annuity contracts to Prudential, including those related to benefit guarantees. Management does not believe this agreement will have a material effect on results of operations, cash flows or financial position of the Company. In the normal course of business, the Company provides standard indemnifications to contractual counterparties in connection with numerous transactions, including acquisitions and divestitures. The types of indemnifications typically provided include indemnifications for breaches of representations and warranties, taxes and certain other liabilities, such as third party lawsuits. The indemnification clauses are often standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business based on an assessment that the risk of loss would be remote. The terms of the indemnifications vary in duration and nature. In many cases, the maximum obligation is not explicitly stated and the contingencies triggering the obligation to indemnify have not occurred and are not expected to occur. Consequently, the maximum amount of the obligation under such indemnifications is not determinable. Historically, the Company has not made any material payments pursuant to these obligations. The aggregate liability balance related to all guarantees was not material as of December 31, 2018 . Regulation and compliance The Company is subject to extensive laws, regulations, administrative directives, and regulatory actions. From time to time, regulatory authorities or legislative bodies seek to influence and restrict premium rates, require premium refunds to policyholders, require reinstatement of terminated policies, prescribe rules or guidelines on how affiliates compete in the marketplace, restrict the ability of insurers to cancel or non-renew policies, require insurers to continue to write new policies or limit their ability to write new policies, limit insurers’ ability to change coverage terms or to impose underwriting standards, impose additional regulations regarding agency and broker compensation, regulate the nature of and amount of investments, impose fines and penalties for unintended errors or mistakes, impose additional regulations regarding cybersecurity and privacy, and otherwise expand overall regulation of insurance products and the insurance industry. In addition, the Company is subject to laws and regulations administered and enforced by federal agencies, international agencies, and other organizations, including but not limited to the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the U.S. Department of Justice. The Company has established procedures and policies to facilitate compliance with laws and regulations, to foster prudent business operations, and to support financial reporting. The Company routinely reviews its practices to validate compliance with laws and regulations and with internal procedures and policies. As a result of these reviews, from time to time the Company may decide to modify some of its procedures and policies. Such modifications, and the reviews that led to them, may be accompanied by payments being made and costs being incurred. The ultimate changes and eventual effects of these actions on the Company’s business, if any, are uncertain. Legal and regulatory proceedings and inquiries The Company and certain subsidiaries are involved in a number of lawsuits, regulatory inquiries, and other legal proceedings arising out of various aspects of its business. Background These matters raise difficult and complicated factual and legal issues and are subject to many uncertainties and complexities, including the underlying facts of each matter; novel legal issues; variations between jurisdictions in which matters are being litigated, heard, or investigated; changes in assigned judges; differences or developments in applicable laws and judicial interpretations; judges reconsidering prior rulings; the length of time before many of these matters might be resolved by settlement, through litigation, or otherwise; adjustments with respect to anticipated trial schedules and other proceedings; developments in similar actions against other companies; the fact that some of the lawsuits are putative class actions in which a class has not been certified and in which the purported class may not be clearly defined; the fact that some of the lawsuits involve multi-state class actions in which the applicable law(s) for the claims at issue is in dispute and therefore unclear; and the challenging legal environment faced by corporations and insurance companies. The outcome of these matters may be affected by decisions, verdicts, and settlements, and the timing of such decisions, verdicts, and settlements, in other individual and class action lawsuits that involve the Company, other insurers, or other entities and by other legal, governmental, and regulatory actions that involve the Company, other insurers, or other entities. The outcome may also be affected by future state or federal legislation, the timing or substance of which cannot be predicted. In the lawsuits, plaintiffs seek a variety of remedies which may include equitable relief in the form of injunctive and other remedies and monetary relief in the form of contractual and extra-contractual damages. In some cases, the monetary damages sought may include punitive or treble damages. Often specific information about the relief sought, such as the amount of damages, is not available because plaintiffs have not requested specific relief in their pleadings. When specific monetary demands are made, they are often set just below a state court jurisdictional limit in order to seek the maximum amount available in state court, regardless of the specifics of the case, while still avoiding the risk of removal to federal court. In Allstate’s experience, monetary demands in pleadings bear little relation to the ultimate loss, if any, to the Company. In connection with regulatory examinations and proceedings, government authorities may seek various forms of relief, including penalties, restitution, and changes in business practices. The Company may not be advised of the nature and extent of relief sought until the final stages of the examination or proceeding. Accrual and disclosure policy The Company reviews its lawsuits, regulatory inquiries, and other legal proceedings on an ongoing basis and follows appropriate accounting guidance when making accrual and disclosure decisions. The Company establishes accruals for such matters at management’s best estimate when the Company assesses that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company does not establish accruals for such matters when the Company does not believe both that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company’s assessment of whether a loss is reasonably possible or probable is based on its assessment of the ultimate outcome of the matter following all appeals. The Company does not include potential recoveries in its estimates of reasonably possible or probable losses. Legal fees are expensed as incurred. The Company continues to monitor its lawsuits, regulatory inquiries, and other legal proceedings for further developments that would make the loss contingency both probable and estimable, and accordingly accruable, or that could affect the amount of accruals that have been previously established. There may continue to be exposure to loss in excess of any amount accrued. Disclosure of the nature and amount of an accrual is made when there have been sufficient legal and factual developments such that the Company’s ability to resolve the matter would not be impaired by the disclosure of the amount of accrual. When the Company assesses it is reasonably possible or probable that a loss has been incurred, it discloses the matter. When it is possible to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss above the amount accrued, if any, for the matters disclosed, that estimate is aggregated and disclosed. Disclosure is not required when an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss cannot be made. For certain of the matters described below in the “Claims related proceedings” and “Other proceedings” subsections, the Company is able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss above the amount accrued, if any. In determining whether it is possible to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss, the Company reviews and evaluates the disclosed matters, in conjunction with counsel, in light of potentially relevant factual and legal developments. These developments may include information learned through the discovery process, rulings on dispositive motions, settlement discussions, information obtained from other sources, experience from managing these and other matters, and other rulings by courts, arbitrators or others. When the Company possesses sufficient appropriate information to develop an estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss above the amount accrued, if any, that estimate is aggregated and disclosed below. There may be other disclosed matters for which a loss is probable or reasonably possible, but such an estimate is not possible. Disclosure of the estimate of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss above the amount accrued, if any, for any individual matter would only be considered when there have been sufficient legal and factual developments such that the Company’s ability to resolve the matter would not be impaired by the disclosure of the individual estimate. The Company currently estimates that the aggregate range of reasonably possible loss in excess of the amount accrued, if any, for the disclosed matters where such an estimate is possible is zero to $100 million , pre-tax. This disclosure is not an indication of expected loss, if any. Under accounting guidance, an event is “reasonably possible” if “the chance of the future event or events occurring is more than remote but less than likely” and an event is “remote” if “the chance of the future event or events occurring is slight.” This estimate is based upon currently available information and is subject to significant judgment and a variety of assumptions, and known and unknown uncertainties. The matters underlying the estimate will change from time to time, and actual results may vary significantly from the current estimate. The estimate does not include matters or losses for which an estimate is not possible. Therefore, this estimate represents an estimate of possible loss only for certain matters meeting these criteria. It does not represent the Company’s maximum possible loss exposure. Information is provided below regarding the nature of all of the disclosed matters and, where specified, the amount, if any, of plaintiff claims associated with these loss contingencies. Due to the complexity and scope of the matters disclosed in the “Claims related proceedings” and “Other proceedings” subsections below and the many uncertainties that exist, the ultimate outcome of these matters cannot be predicted and in the Company’s judgment, a loss, in excess of amounts accrued, if any, is not probable. In the event of an unfavorable outcome in one or more of these matters, the ultimate liability may be in excess of amounts currently accrued, if any, and may be material to the Company’s operating results or cash flows for a particular quarterly or annual period. However, based on information currently known to it, management believes that the ultimate outcome of all matters described below, as they are resolved over time, is not likely to have a material effect on the financial position of the Company. Claims related proceedings The Company is managing various disputes challenging the method in which it has applied deductibles relating to claims for personal injury protection benefits under Florida auto policies. These disputes include a putative class action and litigation involving individual plaintiffs. Gail Pierce, et al. v. Allstate Insurance Company is a putative class action filed on August 13, 2013 in the Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit in and for Broward County, Florida. It is brought on behalf of all insureds and their health care provider assignees who submitted claims for personal injury protection under auto policies in effect from March 2008. In the policies at issue, the Company applied the personal injury protection deductible to health care provider charges after the Company reduced those charges for reasonableness. In Pierce and the individual matters, plaintiffs seek determinations that the Company must apply the personal injury protection deductible to the full amount charged by the providers. In addition to the difference in policy benefits that may result from applying the deductible to the full amount charged, plaintiffs also seek recovery of attorneys’ fees and costs pursuant to Florida statutes. The question concerning how the personal injury protection deductible is to be applied under Florida law was recently decided by the Florida Supreme Court in a matter involving another insurer, Progressive v. Florida Hospital . The Florida Supreme Court ruled in favor of the providers, and held that under the Florida law, the personal injury protection deductible must be applied to the full amount charged by the providers before any other adjustments are applied. The Company has taken steps to comply with the Florida Supreme Court’s ruling in this case, including the recalculation of benefits recorded. Other proceedings T he case of Jack Jimenez, et al. v. Allstate Insurance Company was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California on September 30, 2010. Plaintiffs allege off-the-clock wage and hour claims and other California Labor Code violations resulting from purported unpaid overtime. Plaintiffs seek recovery of unpaid compensation, liquidated damages, penalties, and attorneys’ fees and costs. The court certified a class that includes all adjusters in the state of California, except auto field adjusters, from September 29, 2006 to final judgment. Allstate’s appeals to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and then to the U.S. Supreme Court did not result in decertification. No trial date is calendared. The stockholder derivative actions described below are disclosed pursuant to SEC disclosure requirements for these types of matters, and the putative class action has been disclosed because these matters involve similar allegations. Biefeldt / IBEW Consolidated Action. Two separately filed stockholder derivative actions have been consolidated into a single proceeding that is pending in the Circuit Court for Cook County, Illinois, Chancery Division. The original complaint in the first-filed of those actions, Biefeldt v. Wilson, et al. , was filed on August 3, 2017, in that court by a plaintiff alleging that she is a stockholder of the Company. On June 29, 2018, the court granted defendants’ motion to dismiss that complaint for failure to make a pre-suit demand on the Allstate board before instituting the suit, but granted the plaintiff permission to file an amended complaint. The original complaint in IBEW Local No. 98 Pension Fund v. Wilson, et al. , was filed on April 12, 2018, in the same court by another plaintiff alleging to be a stockholder of the Company. After the court issued its dismissal decision in the Biefeldt action, the plaintiffs agreed to consolidate the two actions and filed a consolidated amended complaint naming the Company’s chairman, president and chief executive officer, its former president, and certain present or former members of the board of directors. In that complaint, the plaintiffs allege that the directors and officer defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company in connection with allegedly material misstatements or omissions concerning the Company’s automobile insurance claim frequency statistics and the reasons for a claim frequency increase for Allstate brand auto insurance between October 2014 and August 3, 2015. The factual allegations are substantially similar to those at issue in In re The Allstate Corp. Securities Litigation . The plaintiffs further allege that a senior officer and several outside directors engaged in stock option exercises allegedly while in possession of material nonpublic information. The plaintiffs seek, on behalf of the Company, an unspecified amount of damages and various forms of equitable relief. Defendants moved to dismiss the consolidated complaint on September 24, 2018 for failure to make a demand on the Allstate board. The motion to dismiss was fully briefed as of December 10, 2018 and argument on the motion is scheduled for March 7, 2019. In Sundquist v. Wilson, et al ., another plaintiff alleging to be a stockholder of the Company filed a stockholder derivative complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on May 21, 2018. The plaintiff seeks, on behalf of the Company, an unspecified amount of damages and various forms of equitable relief. The complaint names as defendants the Company’s chairman, president and chief executive officer, its former president, its former chief financial officer, who is now the Company’s vice chairman, and certain present or former members of the board of directors. The complaint alleges breaches of fiduciary duty based on allegations similar to those asserted in In re The Allstate Corp. Securities Litigation as well as state law “misappropriation” claims based on stock option transactions by the Company’s chairman, president and chief executive officer, its former chief financial officer, who is now the Company’s vice chairman, and certain members of the board of directors. Defendants moved to dismiss and/or stay the complaint on August 7, 2018. On December 4, 2018, the court granted the defendants’ motion and stayed the case pending the resolution of the consolidated Biefeldt/IBEW matter. In re The Allstate Corp. Securities Litigation is a putative class action filed on November 11, 2016 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the Company and two of its officers asserting claims under the federal securities laws. Plaintiffs allege that they purchased Allstate common stock during the putative class period and suffered damages as the result of the conduct alleged. Plaintiffs seek an unspecified amount

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 15 Income Taxes The Company and its domestic subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. Tax liabilities and benefits realized by the consolidated group are allocated as generated by the respective entities. Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through income tax expense as changes in tax laws or rates are enacted. Tax Legislation On December 22, 2017, the Tax Legislation became effective and impacted the Company generally in four areas: 1. Amended the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which among other items, permanently reduced the corporate income tax rate from a maximum of 35% to 21% beginning January 1, 2018. As a result, the corporate tax rate is not comparable between periods. 2. Changed international taxation to a modified territorial tax system whereby U.S. federal income taxes are generally eliminated on dividends from foreign subsidiaries, and certain earnings of controlled foreign corporations are included in U.S. federal taxable income. 3. Contained several other provisions, such as limitations of deductibility of executive compensation, meals and entertainment and lobbying expenses and changes to the dividends received deduction. 4. Affected the timing of certain tax deductions for reserves and deferred acquisition costs, but does not impact the Company’s overall income tax expense. The Company recorded a net tax benefit of $509 million , recognized as a reduction to income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2017. The net benefit was primarily due to re-measurement of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities from 35% to 21%. This was partially offset by the transition to a modified territorial system for international taxation which required the Company to recognize a liability based on non-U.S. income from international subsidiaries that had not been repatriated to the U.S. parent company (the “Transition Tax”). The Company’s effective income tax rate for 2017 was 21.9% and included a one-time benefit of 11.2% . During 2018, the impact of the Tax Legislation was adjusted from the Company’s preliminary estimates due to, among other things, changes in interpretations and assumptions the Company previously made, guidance that was issued and actions the Company took as a result of the Tax Legislation, resulting in a net tax benefit of $29 million , recognized as a reduction to income tax expense in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The accounting for income tax effects of the Tax Legislation has been completed. Regulatory tax examinations The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) is currently examining the Company’s 2015 and 2016 federal income tax returns, with the 2017 tax year exam scheduled to begin mid-2019. The 2015-17 cycle is expected to be completed in 2020. The 2013 and 2014 federal income tax return audit is complete through the exam phase and the Company will progress to the appeals process for one unagreed issue in 2019. Any adjustments that may result from IRS examinations of the Company’s tax returns are not expected to have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements. Unrecognized tax benefits The Company recognizes tax positions in the consolidated financial statements only when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on examination by the relevant taxing authority based on the technical merits of the position. A position that meets this standard is measured at the largest amount of benefit that will more likely than not be realized on settlement. A liability is established for differences between positions taken in a tax return and amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements. Reconciliation of the change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance – beginning of year $ 55 $ 10 $ 7 Increase for tax positions taken in a prior year 3 34 — Increase for tax positions taken in the current year 12 11 3 Balance – end of year $ 70 $ 55 $ 10 The Company believes it is reasonably possible that a decrease of up to $58 million in unrecognized tax benefits may occur within the next twelve months due to IRS settlements. Components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets Unearned premium reserves $ 594 $ 545 Accrued compensation 145 137 Pension 192 86 Discount on loss reserves 67 53 Net operating loss carryover 50 50 Other assets 57 49 Other postretirement benefits 45 48 Total deferred tax assets 1,150 968 Deferred tax liabilities DAC (854 ) (770 ) Unrealized net capital gains (2 ) (422 ) Life and annuity reserves (194 ) (241 ) Intangible assets (145 ) (113 ) Investments (278 ) (106 ) Other liabilities (102 ) (98 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (1,575 ) (1,750 ) Net deferred tax liability $ (425 ) $ (782 ) Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized based on the Company’s assessment that the deductions ultimately recognized for tax purposes will be fully utilized. As of December 31, 2018 , the Company has U.S. federal and foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $209 million and $30 million , respectively. The provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated the 20-year carryforward period and made it indefinite for federal net operating losses generated in tax years after December 31, 2017. For such amounts generated prior to 2018, the 20-year carryforward period continues to apply. Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) 20-Year Carryforward Expires in 2025-2036 Indefinite Carryforward Period Total US Federal $ 149 $ 60 $ 209 Foreign — 30 30 Total $ 149 $ 90 $ 239 Components of income tax expense For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Current $ 704 $ 1,018 $ 654 Deferred (236 ) (23 ) 188 Total income tax expense $ 468 $ 995 $ 842 The Company paid income taxes of $731 million , $968 million and $359 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company had a current income tax receivable of $124 million and a current tax payable of $44 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Statutory federal income tax rate on income from operations 21.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Tax Legislation benefit (1.1 ) (11.2 ) — Share-based payments (0.6 ) (1.4 ) — Tax-exempt income (0.9 ) (0.7 ) (1.2 ) Tax credits (1.3 ) (1.3 ) (1.3 ) Non-deductible goodwill impairment — 1.0 — Other 0.7 0.5 (0.7 ) Effective income tax rate on income from operations 17.8 % 21.9 % 31.8 %

Statutory Financial Information

Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations [Abstract]
Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations	Note 16 Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations Allstate’s domestic property and casualty and life insurance subsidiaries prepare their statutory-basis financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the insurance department of the applicable state of domicile. Prescribed statutory accounting practices include a variety of publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”), as well as state laws, regulations and general administrative rules. Permitted statutory accounting practices encompass all accounting practices not so prescribed. All states require domiciled insurance companies to prepare statutory-basis financial statements in conformity with the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual, subject to any deviations prescribed or permitted by the applicable insurance commissioner and/or director. Statutory accounting practices differ from GAAP primarily since they require charging policy acquisition and certain sales inducement costs to expense as incurred, establishing life insurance reserves based on different actuarial assumptions, and valuing certain investments and establishing deferred taxes on a different basis. Statutory net income (loss) and capital and surplus of Allstate’s domestic insurance subsidiaries Net income (loss) Capital and surplus ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 Amounts by major business type: Property and casualty insurance $ 2,939 $ 3,050 $ 1,520 $ 14,328 $ 14,903 Life insurance, annuities and voluntary accident and health insurance 465 327 197 3,819 3,727 Amount per statutory accounting practices $ 3,404 $ 3,377 $ 1,717 $ 18,147 $ 18,630 Dividend Limitations There are no regulatory restrictions that limit the payment of dividends by the Corporation, except those generally applicable to corporations incorporated in Delaware. Dividends are payable only out of certain components of shareholders’ equity as permitted by Delaware law. However, the ability of the Corporation to pay dividends is dependent on business conditions, income, cash requirements of the Company, receipt of dividends from AIC and other relevant factors. The payment of shareholder dividends by AIC without the prior approval of the Illinois Department of Insurance (“IL DOI”) is limited to formula amounts based on net income and capital and surplus, determined in conformity with statutory accounting practices, as well as the timing and amount of dividends paid in the preceding twelve months. AIC paid dividends of $2.87 billion in 2018 . The maximum amount of dividends AIC will be able to pay without prior IL DOI approval at a given point in time during 2019 is $2.73 billion , less dividends paid during the preceding twelve months measured at that point in time. The payment of a dividend in excess of this amount requires 30 days advance written notice to the IL DOI. The dividend is deemed approved, unless the IL DOI disapproves it within the 30 day notice period. Additionally, any dividend must be paid out of unassigned surplus excluding unrealized appreciation from investments, which for AIC totaled $11.15 billion as of December 31, 2018 , and cannot result in capital and surplus being less than the minimum amount required by law. Under state insurance laws, insurance companies are required to maintain paid up capital of not less than the minimum capital requirement applicable to the types of insurance they are authorized to write. Insurance companies are also subject to risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements adopted by state insurance regulators. A company’s “authorized control level RBC” is calculated using various factors applied to certain financial balances and activity. Companies that do not maintain adjusted statutory capital and surplus at a level in excess of the company action level RBC, which is two times authorized control level RBC, are required to take specified actions. Company action level RBC is significantly in excess of the minimum capital requirements. Total adjusted statutory capital and surplus and authorized control level RBC of AIC were $17.29 billion and $3.01 billion , respectively, as of December 31, 2018 . Substantially all of the Corporation’s insurance subsidiaries are subsidiaries of and/or reinsure all of their business to AIC, including ALIC. AIC’s subsidiaries are included as a component of AIC’s total statutory capital and surplus. The amount of restricted net assets, as represented by the Corporation’s investment in its insurance subsidiaries, was $25 billion as of December 31, 2018 . Intercompany transactions Notification and approval of intercompany lending activities is also required by the IL DOI for transactions that exceed a level that is based on a formula using statutory admitted assets and statutory surplus.

Benefit Plans

Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Benefit Plans	Note 17 Benefit Plans Change in accounting principle As discussed in Note 2, the Company changed its accounting principle for recognizing actuarial gains and losses and expected return on plan assets for its pension and other postretirement plans to a more preferable policy under U.S. GAAP. Under the new principle, remeasurement of projected benefit obligation and plan assets are immediately recognized through earnings and are referred to as pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations . This change has been applied on a retrospective basis . See Note 2 for further information regarding the impact of the change in accounting principle on the consolidated financial statements. Pension and other postretirement plans Defined benefit pension plans cover most full-time employees, certain part-time employees and employee-agents. Benefits under the pension plans are based upon the employee’s length of service, eligible annual compensation and, prior to January 1, 2014, either a cash balance or final average pay formula. A cash balance formula applies to all eligible employees hired after August 1, 2002. Eligible employees hired before August 1, 2002 chose between the cash balance formula and the final average pay formula. In July 2013, the Company amended its primary plans effective January 1, 2014 to introduce a new cash balance formula to replace the previous formulas (including the final average pay formula and the previous cash balance formula) under which eligible employees accrue benefits. The Company also provides a medical coverage subsidy for eligible employees hired before January 1, 2003, including their eligible dependents, when they retire and certain life insurance benefits for eligible retirees (“postretirement benefits”). In July 2013, the Company amended the plan to eliminate the life insurance benefits effective January 1, 2014 for current eligible employees and effective January 1, 2016 for eligible retirees who retired after 1989. The Company continues to pay life insurance premiums for certain retiree plaintiffs subject to a court order requiring it to do so until such time as their lawsuit seeking to keep their life insurance benefits intact is resolved. Qualified employees may become eligible for a medical subsidy if they retire in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans and are continuously insured under the Company’s group plans or other approved plans in accordance with the plan’s participation requirements. The Company shares the cost of retiree medical benefits with non Medicare-eligible retirees based on years of service, with the Company’s share being subject to a 5% limit on future annual medical cost inflation after retirement. For Medicare-eligible retirees, the Company provides a fixed Company contribution based on years of service and other factors, which is not subject to adjustments for inflation. The Company has reserved the right to modify or terminate its benefit plans at any time and for any reason. Obligations and funded status The Company calculates benefit obligations based upon generally accepted actuarial methodologies using the projected benefit obligation (“PBO”) for pension plans and the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (“APBO”) for other postretirement plans. The determination of pension costs and other postretirement obligations are determined using a December 31 measurement date. The benefit obligations represent the actuarial present value of all benefits attributed to employee service rendered as of the measurement date. The PBO is measured using the pension benefit formulas and assumptions as to future compensation levels. A plan’s funded status is calculated as the difference between the benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets. The Company’s funding policy for the pension plans is to make contributions at a level in accordance with regulations under the Internal Revenue Code (“IRC”) and generally accepted actuarial principles. Change in projected benefit obligation, plan assets and funded status As of December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Change in projected benefit obligation Benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 6,815 $ 6,591 $ 386 $ 373 Service cost 110 111 7 8 Interest cost 255 254 15 15 Participant contributions — — 13 12 Actuarial (gains) losses (255 ) 406 (4 ) 8 Benefits paid (646 ) (553 ) (35 ) (35 ) Translation adjustment and other (55 ) 6 (7 ) 5 Benefit obligation, end of year $ 6,224 $ 6,815 $ 375 $ 386 Change in plan assets Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $ 6,284 $ 5,650 Actual return on plan assets (300 ) 1,051 Employer contribution 16 131 Benefits paid (646 ) (553 ) Translation adjustment and other (55 ) 5 Fair value of plan assets, end of year $ 5,299 $ 6,284 Funded status (1) (2) (3) $ (925 ) $ (531 ) $ (375 ) $ (386 ) Amounts recognized in AOCI Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit $ (198 ) $ (254 ) $ (16 ) $ (37 ) (1) The primary qualified employee plan represents 78% of the pension benefits’ underfunded status as of December 31, 2018 . (2) The funded status is recorded within other liabilities and accrued expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. (3) The Company’s other postretirement benefit plans are not funded. Changes in items not yet recognized as a component of net cost for pension and other postretirement plans ($ in millions) Pension benefits Postretirement benefits Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2017 $ (254 ) $ (37 ) Prior service credit amortized to net cost 56 21 Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2018 $ (198 ) $ (16 ) The prior service credit is recognized as a component of net cost for pension and other postretirement plans amortized over the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits. The prior service credit that will be amortized to net cost for pension and postretirement plans in 2019 is estimated to be $56 million and $3 million , respectively. The accumulated benefit obligation (“ABO”) for all defined benefit pension plans was $6.15 billion and $6.74 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The ABO is the actuarial present value of all benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered at the measurement date. However, it differs from the PBO due to the exclusion of an assumption as to future compensation levels. The PBO, ABO and fair value of plan assets for the Company’s pension plans with an ABO in excess of plan assets were $5.99 billion , $5.93 billion and $5.07 billion , respectively, as of December 31, 2018 and $6.42 billion , $6.36 billion and $5.89 billion , respectively, as of December 31, 2017 . Included in the accrued benefit cost of the pension benefits are certain unfunded non-qualified plans with accrued benefit costs of $135 million and $140 million for 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Components of net cost (benefit) for pension and other postretirement plans For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Service cost $ 110 $ 111 $ 113 $ 7 $ 8 $ 9 Interest cost 255 254 286 15 15 18 Expected return on plan assets (427 ) (419 ) (387 ) — — — Amortization of prior service credit (56 ) (56 ) (56 ) (21 ) (25 ) (21 ) Costs and expenses (118 ) (110 ) (44 ) 1 (2 ) 6 Remeasurement of projected benefit obligation (255 ) 406 388 (4 ) 8 (14 ) Remeasurement of plan assets 727 (631 ) (104 ) — — — Remeasurement gains and losses 472 (225 ) 284 (4 ) 8 (14 ) Total net cost (benefit) $ 354 $ (335 ) $ 240 $ (3 ) $ 6 $ (8 ) The service cost component is the actuarial present value of the benefits attributed by the plans’ benefit formula to services rendered by the employees during the period. Interest cost is the increase in the PBO in the period due to the passage of time at the discount rate. Interest cost fluctuates as the discount rate changes and is also impacted by the related change in the size of the PBO. The expected return on plan assets is determined as the product of the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and the fair value of plan assets. Pension and other postretirement service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets and amortization of prior service credits are reported in property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense, operating costs and expenses, net investment income and (if applicable) restructuring and related charges on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Remeasurement gains and losses relate to changes in discount rates, the differences between actual return on plan assets and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, and differences between actual plan experience and actuarial assumptions. The Company remeasures its pension and postretirement plans on a quarterly basis. Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost and net postretirement benefit cost For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Discount rate 4.06 % 3.96 % 4.78 % 3.95 % 3.91 % 4.56 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.15 3.16 3.16 n/a n/a n/a Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.33 7.32 7.30 n/a n/a n/a Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Discount rate 4.31 % 3.67 % 4.22 % 3.63 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.16 3.15 n/a n/a The weighted average health care cost trend rate used in measuring the accumulated postretirement benefit cost is 5.9% for 2019 , gradually declining to 4.5% in 2038 and remaining at that level thereafter. Pension plan assets In general, the Company’s pension plan assets are managed in accordance with investment policies approved by pension investment committees. The purpose of the policies is to ensure the plans’ long-term ability to meet benefit obligations by prudently investing plan assets and Company contributions, while taking into consideration regulatory and legal requirements and current market conditions. The investment policies are reviewed periodically and specify target plan asset allocation by asset category. In addition, the policies specify various asset allocation and other risk limits. The target asset allocation takes the plans’ funding status into consideration, among other factors, including anticipated demographic changes or liquidity requirements that may affect the funding status such as the potential impact of lump sum settlements as well as existing or expected market conditions. In general, the allocation has a lower overall investment risk when a plan is in a stronger funded status position since there is less economic incentive to take risk to increase the expected returns on the plan assets. As a result, the primary employee plan has a greater allocation to equity securities than the employee-agent plan. The primary qualified employee plan comprises 81% of total plan assets and 82% of equity securities. The pension plans’ asset exposure within each asset category is tracked against widely accepted established benchmarks for each asset class with limits on variation from the benchmark established in the investment policy. Pension plan assets are regularly monitored for compliance with these limits and other risk limits specified in the investment policies. Weighted average target asset allocation and actual percentage of plan assets by asset category As of December 31, 2018 Target asset allocation (1) Actual percentage of plan assets Pension plan’s asset category 2018 2018 2017 Equity securities (2) 36 - 53% 47 % 58 % Fixed income securities 40 - 53% 41 34 Limited partnership interests 0 - 15% 9 6 Short-term investments and other — 3 2 Total without securities lending (3) 100 % 100 % (1) The target asset allocation considers risk based exposure while the actual percentage of plan assets utilizes a financial reporting view excluding exposure provided through derivatives. (2) The actual percentage of plan assets for equity securities includes 1% and 2 % of private equity investments in 2018 and 2017 , respectively, that are subject to the limited partnership interests target allocation and 4% and 3% of fixed income mutual funds in 2018 and 2017 , respectively, that are subject to the fixed income securities target allocation. (3) Securities lending collateral reinvestment of $208 million and $202 million is excluded from the table above in 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The target asset allocation for an asset category may be achieved either through direct investment holdings, through replication using derivative instruments (e.g., futures or swaps) or net of hedges using derivative instruments to reduce exposure to an asset category. The net notional amount of derivatives used for replication and hedges is limited to 105% or 115% of total plan assets depending on the plan. Market performance of the different asset categories may, from time to time, cause deviation from the target asset allocation. The asset allocation mix is reviewed on a periodic basis and rebalanced to bring the allocation within the target ranges. Outside the target asset allocation, the pension plans participate in a securities lending program to enhance returns. As of December 31, 2018 , U.S. government fixed income securities and U.S. equity securities are lent out and cash collateral is invested in short-term investments. Fair values of pension plan assets as of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Balance as of December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ 51 $ 265 $ — $ 316 Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies 172 509 — 681 Corporate — 1,479 5 1,484 Short-term investments 122 198 — 320 Free-standing derivatives: Assets — 19 — 19 Liabilities — (11 ) — (11 ) Total plan assets at fair value $ 345 $ 2,459 $ 5 2,809 % of total plan assets at fair value 12.3 % 87.5 % 0.2 % 100.0 % Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient 2,687 Securities lending obligation (1) (222 ) Derivatives Counterparty and Cash Collateral Netting (6 ) Other net plan assets (2) 31 Total reported plan assets $ 5,299 (1) The securities lending obligation represents the plan’s obligation to return securities lending collateral received under a securities lending program. The terms of the program allow both the plan and the counterparty the right and ability to redeem/return the securities loaned on short notice. Due to its relatively short-term nature, the outstanding balance of the obligation approximates fair value. (2) Other net plan assets represent cash and cash equivalents, interest and dividends receivable and net receivables related to settlements of investment transactions, such as purchases and sales. Fair values of pension plan assets as of December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Balance as of December 31, 2017 Equity securities $ 126 $ 264 $ 29 $ 419 Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies 174 420 — 594 Corporate — 1,543 10 1,553 Short-term investments 97 197 — 294 Cash and cash equivalents 21 — — 21 Free-standing derivatives: Assets — 1 — 1 Total plan assets at fair value $ 418 $ 2,425 $ 39 2,882 % of total plan assets at fair value 14.5 % 84.1 % 1.4 % 100.0 % Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient 3,598 Securities lending obligation (216 ) Other net plan assets 20 Total reported plan assets $ 6,284 The fair values of pension plan assets are estimated using the same methodologies and inputs as those used to determine the fair values for the respective asset category of the Company. These methodologies and inputs are disclosed in Note 6. Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2018 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2017 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ 29 $ — $ 3 $ — $ (32 ) $ — Fixed income securities: Corporate 10 — — (5 ) — 5 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 39 $ — $ 3 $ (5 ) $ (32 ) $ 5 Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2017 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2016 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2017 Equity securities $ — $ — $ — $ 29 $ — $ 29 Fixed income securities: Corporate 10 — — — — 10 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 10 $ — $ — $ 29 $ — $ 39 Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2016 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2015 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2016 Equity securities $ 1 $ (1 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Fixed income securities: Municipal 7 — — (7 ) — — Corporate 10 — — (5 ) 5 10 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 18 $ (1 ) $ — $ (12 ) $ 5 $ 10 The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets reflects the average rate of earnings expected on plan assets. The Company’s assumption for the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is reviewed annually giving consideration to appropriate financial data including, but not limited to, the plan asset allocation, forward-looking expected returns for the period over which benefits will be paid, historical returns on plan assets and other relevant market data. Given the long-term forward looking nature of this assumption, the actual returns in any one year do not immediately result in a change. In giving consideration to the targeted plan asset allocation, the Company evaluated returns using the same sources it has used historically which include: historical average asset class returns from an independent nationally recognized vendor of this type of data blended together using the asset allocation policy weights for the Company’s pension plans; asset class return forecasts from a large global independent asset management firm that specializes in providing multi-asset class investment fund products which were blended together using the asset allocation policy weights; and expected portfolio returns from a proprietary simulation methodology of a widely recognized external investment consulting firm that performs asset allocation and actuarial services for corporate pension plan sponsors. This same methodology has been applied on a consistent basis each year. All of these were consistent with the Company’s weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption of 7.33% used for 2018 and 7.33% that will be used for 2019 . The assumption for the primary qualified employee plan is 7.75% and the employee-agent plan is 5.75% for both years. The employee-agent plan assumption is lower than the primary qualified employee plan assumption due to a lower investment allocation to equity securities and a higher allocation to fixed income securities. As of the 2018 measurement date, the arithmetic average of the annual actual return on plan assets for the most recent 10 and 5 years was 9.0% and 6.6% , respectively. Cash flows There was no required cash contribution necessary to satisfy the minimum funding requirement under the Internal Revenue Code for the tax qualified pension plans as of December 31, 2018 . The Company currently plans to contribute $26 million to its unfunded non-qualified plans and zero to its qualified funded pension plans in 2019 . The Company contributed $22 million and $23 million to the postretirement benefit plans in 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Contributions by participants were $13 million and $12 million in 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in the next 10 years As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Pension benefits Postretirement benefits 2019 $ 448 $ 24 2020 462 25 2021 495 26 2022 509 27 2023 528 28 2024-2028 2,383 142 Total benefit payments $ 4,825 $ 272 Allstate 401(k) Savings Plan Employees of the Company, with the exception of those employed by the Company’s international, SquareTrade, Esurance and Answer Financial subsidiaries, are eligible to become members of the Allstate 401(k) Savings Plan (“Allstate Plan”). The Company’s contributions are based on the Company’s matching obligation. The Company is responsible for funding its anticipated contribution to the Allstate Plan, and may, at the discretion of management, use the ESOP to pre-fund certain portions. In connection with the Allstate Plan, the Company has a note from the ESOP with a principal balance of $2 million as of December 31, 2018 . The ESOP note has a fixed interest rate of 7.9% and matures in 2019. The Company records dividends on the ESOP shares in retained income and all the shares held by the ESOP are included in basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding. The Company’s contribution to the Allstate Plan was $89 million , $81 million and $80 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. These amounts were reduced by the ESOP benefit. ESOP benefit For the years December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Interest expense recognized by ESOP $ — $ — $ 1 Less: dividends accrued on ESOP shares (1 ) (1 ) (3 ) Cost of shares allocated — 3 7 Compensation expense (1 ) 2 5 Reduction of defined contribution due to ESOP 1 38 60 ESOP benefit $ (2 ) $ (36 ) $ (55 ) The Company made zero , $1 million and $2 million in contributions to the ESOP in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , total committed to be released, allocated and unallocated ESOP shares were zero , 39 million and 0.4 million , respectively. Allstate’s Canadian, SquareTrade, Esurance and Answer Financial subsidiaries sponsor defined contribution plans for their eligible employees. Expense for these plans was $15 million , $12 million and $10 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Equity Incentive Plans

Equity Incentive Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Equity Incentive Plans [Abstract]
Equity Incentive Plans	Note 18 Equity Incentive Plans The Company currently has equity incentive plans under which the Company grants nonqualified stock options, restricted stock units and performance stock awards to certain employees and directors of the Company. The total compensation expense related to equity awards was $125 million , $106 million and $80 million and the total income tax benefits were $22 million , $22 million and $28 million for 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Total cash received from the exercise of options was $92 million , $178 million and $187 million for 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Total tax benefit realized on options exercised and the release of stock restrictions was $28 million , $96 million and $61 million for 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company records compensation expense related to awards under these plans over the shorter of the period in which the requisite service is rendered or retirement eligibility is attained. Compensation expense for performance share awards is based on the probable number of awards expected to vest using the performance level most likely to be achieved at the end of the performance period. As of December 31, 2018 , total unrecognized compensation cost related to all nonvested awards was $89 million , of which $29 million related to nonqualified stock options which is expected to be recognized over the weighted average vesting period of 1.71 years, $23 million related to restricted stock units which is expected to be recognized over the weighted average vesting period of 1.69 years and $37 million related to performance stock awards which is expected to be recognized over the weighted average vesting period of 1.59 years. Options are granted to employees with exercise prices equal to the closing share price of the Company’s common stock on the applicable grant date. Options granted to employees on or after February 18, 2014 vest ratably over a three -year period. Options granted prior to February 18, 2014 vest 50% on the second anniversary of the grant date and 25% on each of the third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. Vesting is subject to continued service, except for employees who are retirement eligible and in certain other limited circumstances. Options may be exercised once vested and will expire no later than ten years after the date of grant. Restricted stock units for directors vest immediately and convert into shares of stock on the earlier of the day of the third anniversary of the grant date or the date the director’s service terminates, unless a deferred period of restriction is elected. Restricted stock units granted to directors prior to June 1, 2016 convert upon leaving the board. Restricted stock units granted to employees on or after February 18, 2014 vest on the day prior to the third anniversary of the grant date. Awards granted to employees prior to February 18, 2014 vest 50% on the day prior to the second anniversary of the grant date and 25% on each of the days prior to the third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. Restricted stock units granted to employees subsequently convert into shares of stock on the day of the respective anniversary of the grant date. Vesting is subject to continued service, except for employees who are retirement eligible and in certain other limited circumstances. Performance stock awards vest into shares of stock on the day prior to the third anniversary of the grant date. Vesting of the number of performance stock awards earned based on the attainment of performance goals for each of the performance periods is subject to continued service, except for employees who are retirement eligible and in certain other limited circumstances, and achievement of performance goals. Performance stock awards subsequently convert into shares of stock in full the day of the anniversary of the grant date. A total of 98.0 million shares of common stock were authorized to be used for awards under the plans, subject to adjustment in accordance with the plans’ terms. As of December 31, 2018 , 15.0 million shares were reserved and remained available for future issuance under these plans. The Company uses its treasury shares for these issuances. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using a binomial lattice model. The Company uses historical data to estimate option exercise and employee termination within the valuation model. In addition, separate groups of employees that have similar historical exercise behavior are considered separately for valuation purposes. The expected term of options granted is derived from the output of the binominal lattice model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The expected volatility of the price of the underlying shares is implied based on traded options and historical volatility of the Company’s common stock. The expected dividends were based on the current dividend yield of the Company’s stock as of the date of the grant. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. Option grant assumptions 2018 2017 2016 Weighted average expected term 5.7 years 6.1 years 5.0 years Expected volatility 15.6 - 30.7% 15.7 - 32.7% 16.0 - 34.3% Weighted average volatility 19.8 % 21.0 % 24.3 % Expected dividends 1.5 - 2.2% 1.4 - 1.9% 1.9 - 2.1% Weighted average expected dividends 2.0 % 1.9 % 2.1 % Risk-free rate 1.3 - 3.2% 0.5 - 2.5% 0.2 - 2.4% Summary of option activity For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average exercise price Aggregate intrinsic value (in 000s) Weighted average remaining contractual term (years) Outstanding as of January 1, 2018 11,262 $ 58.46 Granted 2,388 93.04 Exercised (1,710 ) 53.57 Forfeited (206 ) 80.79 Expired (4 ) 52.21 Outstanding as of December 31, 2018 11,730 65.82 $ 221,999 6.3 Outstanding, net of expected forfeitures 11,614 65.59 221,832 6.3 Outstanding, exercisable (“vested”) 6,968 54.14 198,747 5.0 The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted was $17.03 , $14.60 and $12.25 during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The intrinsic value, which is the difference between the fair value and the exercise price, of options exercised was $72 million , $199 million and $119 million during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Changes in restricted stock units For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average grant date fair value Nonvested as of January 1, 2018 1,241 $ 67.93 Granted 255 93.16 Vested (498 ) 67.45 Forfeited (41 ) 75.40 Nonvested as of December 31, 2018 957 74.58 The fair value of restricted stock units is based on the market value of the Company’s stock as of the date of the grant. The market value in part reflects the payment of future dividends expected. The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted was $93.16 , $80.12 and $63.51 during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The total fair value of restricted stock units vested was $47 million , $58 million and $29 million during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Changes in performance stock awards For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average grant date fair value Nonvested as of January 1, 2018 1,090 $ 70.35 Granted 402 92.88 Adjustment for performance achievement (34 ) 70.53 Vested (161 ) 70.53 Forfeited (49 ) 76.33 Nonvested as of December 31, 2018 1,248 77.35 The change in PSA’s comprises those initially granted in 2018 and the adjustment to previously granted PSA’s for performance achievement. The fair value of performance stock awards is based on the market value of the Company’s stock as of the date of the grant. The market value in part reflects the payment of future dividends expected. The weighted average grant date fair value of performance stock awards granted was $92.88 , $78.47 and $62.32 during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The total fair value of performance stock awards vested was $15 million , $17 million and $28 million during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Under the employee share-based payment accounting standard adopted in 2017, the Company recognizes all tax effects related to share-based payments at settlement or expiration through the income statement. Prior to the adoption, the Company recognized excess tax effects through the statement of shareholders’ equity. The tax benefit recognized through the statement of shareholders’ equity related to tax deductions from stock option exercises was $23 million in 2016 . The tax benefit recognized through shareholders’ equity related to all stock-based compensation was $30 million in 2016.

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	Note 19 Supplemental Cash Flow Information Non-cash investing activities include $94 million , $106 million and $326 million related to mergers and exchanges completed with equity securities, fixed income securities and limited partnerships, and modifications of certain mortgage loans and other investments in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Non-cash financing activities include $32 million , $43 million and $41 million related to the issuance of Allstate common shares for vested equity awards in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Non-cash financing activities also included $90 million and $34 million related to debt acquired in conjunction with purchases of investments in 2017 and 2016, respectively. Liabilities for collateral received in conjunction with the Company’s securities lending program were $1.44 billion as of December 31, 2018, and $1.12 billion as of both December 31, 2017 and 2016 , and are reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses. Obligations to return cash collateral for OTC and cleared derivatives were $21 million , $3 million and $5 million as of December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and are reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses or other investments. The accompanying cash flows are included in cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows along with the activities resulting from management of the proceeds as follows: For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Net change in proceeds managed Net change in fixed income securities $ 234 $ 259 $ (584 ) Net change in short-term investments (568 ) (255 ) 295 Operating cash flow (used) provided (334 ) 4 (289 ) Net change in cash — 1 — Net change in proceeds managed $ (334 ) $ 5 $ (289 ) Cash flows from operating activities Net change in liabilities Liabilities for collateral, beginning of year $ (1,124 ) $ (1,129 ) $ (840 ) Liabilities for collateral, end of year (1,458 ) (1,124 ) (1,129 ) Operating cash flow provided (used) $ 334 $ (5 ) $ 289

Other Comprehensive Income

Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income	Note 20 Other Comprehensive Income Components of other comprehensive income (loss) on a pre-tax and after-tax basis For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Pre-tax Tax After-tax Pre-tax Tax After-tax Pre-tax Tax After-tax Unrealized net holding gains and losses arising during the period, net of related offsets $ (1,142 ) $ 241 $ (901 ) $ 866 $ (304 ) $ 562 $ 486 $ (170 ) $ 316 Less: reclassification adjustment of realized capital gains and losses (186 ) 39 (147 ) 374 (131 ) 243 (180 ) 63 (117 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses (956 ) 202 (754 ) 492 (173 ) 319 666 (233 ) 433 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (61 ) 13 (48 ) 69 (24 ) 45 14 (5 ) 9 Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit arising during the period — 2 2 1 — 1 22 (5 ) 17 Less: reclassification adjustment of prior service credit amortized into operating costs and expenses 77 (16 ) 61 81 (28 ) 53 77 (27 ) 50 Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit (77 ) 18 (59 ) (80 ) 28 (52 ) (55 ) 22 (33 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income $ (1,094 ) $ 233 $ (861 ) $ 481 $ (169 ) $ 312 $ 625 $ (216 ) $ 409

Quarterly Results (unaudited)

Quarterly Results (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results (unaudited)	Note 21 Quarterly Results (unaudited) As adjusted First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ($ in millions, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues $ 9,770 $ 9,644 $ 10,099 $ 9,813 $ 10,465 $ 9,888 $ 9,481 $ 10,062 Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders 977 785 678 549 942 810 (585 ) 1,294 Earnings per common share - Basic 2.76 2.15 1.94 1.51 2.72 2.24 (1.71 ) 3.62 Earnings per common share - Diluted 2.71 2.11 1.91 1.49 2.68 2.21 (1.71 ) 3.56 Impact of change First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ($ in millions, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders 31 119 41 (1 ) 109 173 (273 ) 74 Earnings per common share - Basic 0.09 0.33 0.12 — 0.31 0.48 (0.80 ) 0.21 Earnings per common share - Diluted 0.08 0.32 0.11 — 0.31 0.47 (0.80 ) 0.21

Schedule I - Summary of Investm

Schedule I - Summary of Investments Other than Investments in Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
SEC Schedule, 12-15, Insurance Companies, Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Abstract]
Schedule I — Summary of Investments Other than Investments in Related Parties	Schedule I — Summary of Investments Other than Investments in Related Parties As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Cost/amortized cost Fair value (if applicable) Amount shown in the Balance Sheet Type of investment Fixed maturities: Bonds: United States government, government agencies and authorities $ 5,386 $ 5,517 $ 5,517 States, municipalities and political subdivisions 8,963 9,169 9,169 Foreign governments 739 747 747 Public utilities 5,410 5,514 5,514 All other corporate bonds 35,126 34,622 34,622 Asset-backed securities 1,049 1,045 1,045 Residential mortgage-backed securities 377 464 464 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 63 70 70 Redeemable preferred stocks 21 22 22 Total fixed maturities 57,134 $ 57,170 57,170 Equity securities: Common stocks: Public utilities 78 93 93 Banks, trusts and insurance companies 452 525 525 Industrial, miscellaneous and all other 3,737 4,159 4,159 Nonredeemable preferred stocks 222 259 259 Total equity securities 4,489 $ 5,036 5,036 Mortgage loans on real estate 4,670 4,703 4,670 Real estate (none acquired in satisfaction of debt) 624 624 Policy loans 891 891 Derivative instruments 117 117 117 Limited partnership interests 7,505 7,505 Other long-term investments 2,220 2,220 Short-term investments 3,027 3,027 3,027 Total investments $ 80,677 $ 81,260

Schedule II - Condensed Financi

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule II — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	Schedule II — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Statement of Operations Year Ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Revenues Investment income, less investment expense $ 25 $ 10 $ 11 Realized capital gains and losses (10 ) (2 ) 2 Other income 3 36 55 18 44 68 Expenses Interest expense 337 334 295 Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses 454 (219 ) 264 Pension and other postretirement benefit expense (116 ) (224 ) (159 ) Other operating expenses 50 50 28 725 (59 ) 428 (Loss) gain from operations before income tax benefit and equity in net income of subsidiaries (707 ) 103 (360 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (136 ) 105 (148 ) Loss before equity in net income of subsidiaries (571 ) (2 ) (212 ) Equity in net income of subsidiaries 2,731 3,556 2,020 Net income 2,160 3,554 1,808 Preferred stock dividends 148 116 116 Net income applicable to common shareholders 2,012 3,438 1,692 Other comprehensive income (loss), after-tax Changes in: Unrealized net capital gains and losses (754 ) 319 433 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (48 ) 45 9 Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit (59 ) (52 ) (33 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, after-tax (861 ) 312 409 Comprehensive income $ 1,299 $ 3,866 $ 2,217 See accompanying notes to condensed financial information and notes to consolidated financial statements. The Allstate Corporation and Subsidiaries Schedule II (Continued) — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Statement of Financial Position ($ in millions, except par value data) December 31, 2018 2017 Assets Investments in subsidiaries $ 29,301 $ 29,126 Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost $355 and $361) 356 362 Short-term investments, at fair value (amortized cost $285 and $171) 285 171 Receivable from subsidiaries 426 427 Deferred income taxes 225 124 Other assets 92 150 Total assets $ 30,685 $ 30,360 Liabilities Long-term debt $ 6,451 $ 6,350 Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations 1,050 675 Deferred compensation 281 297 Payable to subsidiaries 3 — Notes due to subsidiaries 1,250 250 Dividends payable to shareholders 198 167 Other liabilities 140 70 Total liabilities 9,373 7,809 Shareholders’ equity Preferred stock and additional capital paid-in, $1 par value, 25 million shares authorized, 79.8 thousand and 72.2 thousand shares issued and outstanding, $1,995 and $1,805 aggregate liquidation preference 1,930 1,746 Common stock, $.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized and 900 million issued, 332 million and 355 million shares outstanding 9 9 Additional capital paid-in 3,310 3,313 Retained income 44,033 41,579 Deferred ESOP expense (3 ) (3 ) Treasury stock, at cost (568 million and 545 million shares) (28,085 ) (25,982 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income: Unrealized net capital gains and losses (2 ) 1,662 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (49 ) (1 ) Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit 169 228 Total accumulated other comprehensive income 118 1,889 Total shareholders’ equity 21,312 22,551 Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 30,685 $ 30,360 See accompanying notes to condensed financial information and notes to consolidated financial statements. The Allstate Corporation and Subsidiaries Schedule II (Continued) — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Statement of Cash Flows ($ in millions) Years Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 2,160 $ 3,554 $ 1,808 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Equity in net income of subsidiaries (2,731 ) (3,556 ) (2,020 ) Dividends received from subsidiaries 2,059 1,671 1,874 Realized capital gains and losses 10 2 (2 ) Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses 454 (219 ) 264 Changes in: Pension and other postretirement benefits (116 ) (224 ) (159 ) Income taxes (28 ) 232 (20 ) Operating assets and liabilities 160 56 43 Net cash provided by operating activities 1,968 1,516 1,788 Cash flows from investing activities Proceeds from sales of investments 1,370 880 389 Proceeds from sales of investments to subsidiaries 390 — — Investment purchases (1,037 ) (748 ) (243 ) Investment collections 108 13 60 Capital contribution or return of capital from subsidiaries (975 ) 42 (1,500 ) Transfers to subsidiaries through intercompany loan agreement — — (30 ) Change in short-term investments, net (115 ) 48 58 Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (259 ) 235 (1,266 ) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from borrowings from subsidiaries 1,250 300 — Repayment of notes due to subsidiaries (250 ) (50 ) — Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 498 — 1,236 Redemption of preferred stock (385 ) — — Redemption and repayment of long-term debt (400 ) — (17 ) Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock 557 — — Dividends paid on common stock (614 ) (525 ) (486 ) Dividends paid on preferred stock (134 ) (116 ) (116 ) Treasury stock purchases (2,303 ) (1,495 ) (1,337 ) Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net 73 135 164 Excess tax benefits on share-based payment arrangements — — 32 Other (1 ) (2 ) — Net cash used in financing activities (1,709 ) (1,753 ) (524 ) Net decrease in cash — (2 ) (2 ) Cash at beginning of year — 2 4 Cash at end of year $ — $ — $ 2 See accompanying notes to condensed financial information and notes to consolidated financial statements. The Allstate Corporation and Subsidiaries Schedule II (Continued) — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant Notes to Condensed Financial Information 1. General Pursuant to rules and regulations of the SEC, the unconsolidated condensed financial statements of the Parent Company do not reflect all of the information and notes normally included with financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, these condensed financial statements of the Registrant should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Item 8. The long-term debt presented in Note 12 “Capital Structure” are direct obligations of the Registrant. A majority of the pension and other postretirement benefits plans presented in Note 17 “Benefit Plans” are direct obligations of the Registrant. Participating subsidiaries fund the pension plans contributions under a master services cost sharing agreement. In addition, as a result of joint and several pension liability rules under the Internal Revenue Code and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, many liabilities that arise in connection with pension plans are joint and several across all members of a controlled group of entities. 2. Notes due to subsidiaries On October 11, 2018 and December 18, 2018 the Registrant issued $250 million and $1.00 billion notes, with a rate of 2.49% and 3.03% due on April 11, 2019 and June 18, 2019 respectively, both to its wholly owned subsidiary Kennett Capital Inc. The proceeds of these issuances were used for cash management purposes. On December 11, 2017, the Registrant issued $125 million and $175 million notes, each with a rate of 1.59% and due on June 11, 2018, to its wholly owned subsidiaries Kennett Capital Inc. and Allstate Non-Insurance Holdings Inc (“ANIHI”), respectively. The proceeds of these issuances were used for cash management purposes. On December 20, 2017, the Registrant repaid $50 million to ANIHI. On April 17, 2018, the Registrant repaid $125 million and $125 million to Kennett Capital Inc. and ANIHI, respectively. 3. Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information The Registrant paid $330 million , $331 million and $287 million of interest on debt in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Schedule III - Supplementary In

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
SEC Schedule, 12-16, Insurance Companies, Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Schedule III — Supplementary Insurance Information	Schedule III — Supplementary Insurance Information ($ in millions) As of December 31, For the years ended December 31, Segment Deferred policy acquisition costs Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds Unearned premiums Premium revenue and contract charges Net investment income (1) Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs Other operating costs and expenses Premiums written (excluding life) 2018 Property-Liability Allstate Protection $ 1,618 $ 25,495 $ 11,953 $ 32,950 $ 22,348 $ 4,475 $ 4,522 $ 33,555 Discontinued Lines and Coverages — 1,864 — — 87 — 3 — Total Property-Liability 1,618 27,359 11,953 32,950 $ 1,464 22,435 4,475 4,525 33,555 Service Businesses (2) 1,290 64 2,546 1,220 27 350 463 603 1,431 Allstate Life 1,300 10,333 3 1,315 505 1,094 132 364 — Allstate Benefits 549 1,905 8 1,135 77 630 145 278 980 Allstate Annuities 27 18,341 — 15 1,096 903 7 31 — Corporate and Other — — — — 71 — — 880 — Intersegment Eliminations (2) — — — (122 ) — (7 ) — (115 ) — Total $ 4,784 $ 58,002 $ 14,510 $ 36,513 $ 3,240 $ 25,405 $ 5,222 $ 6,566 $ 35,966 2017 Property-Liability Allstate Protection $ 1,510 $ 24,336 $ 11,409 $ 31,433 $ 21,388 $ 4,205 $ 4,239 $ 31,648 Discontinued Lines and Coverages — 1,893 — — 96 — 3 — Total Property-Liability 1,510 26,229 11,409 31,433 $ 1,478 21,484 4,205 4,242 31,648 Service Businesses (2) 954 96 2,052 977 16 369 296 565 1,094 Allstate Life 1,152 10,244 4 1,280 489 1,047 134 344 — Allstate Benefits 541 1,869 8 1,084 72 599 142 261 919 Allstate Annuities 34 19,870 — 14 1,305 967 7 34 — Corporate and Other — — — — 41 — — 292 — Intersegment Eliminations (2) — — — (110 ) — (6 ) — (104 ) — Total $ 4,191 $ 58,308 $ 13,473 $ 34,678 $ 3,401 $ 24,460 $ 4,784 $ 5,634 $ 33,661 2016 Property-Liability Allstate Protection $ 1,432 $ 23,263 $ 11,160 $ 30,727 $ 21,802 $ 4,053 $ 4,083 $ 30,888 Discontinued Lines and Coverages — 1,953 — — 105 — 2 3 Total Property-Liability 1,432 25,216 11,160 30,727 $ 1,253 21,907 4,053 4,085 30,891 Service Businesses (2) 756 34 1,411 685 13 258 214 283 709 Allstate Life 1,200 10,042 4 1,250 482 1,027 131 332 — Allstate Benefits 526 1,821 8 1,011 71 545 145 236 855 Allstate Annuities 40 20,636 — 14 1,181 1,011 7 31 — Corporate and Other — — — — 42 — — 594 — Intersegment Eliminations (2) — — — (105 ) — (5 ) — (100 ) — Total $ 3,954 $ 57,749 $ 12,583 $ 33,582 $ 3,042 $ 24,743 $ 4,550 $ 5,461 $ 32,455 (1) A single investment portfolio supports both Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments. (2) Includes intersegment premiums and service fees and the related incurred losses and expenses that are eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.

Schedule IV - Reinsurance

Schedule IV - Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
SEC Schedule, 12-17, Insurance Companies, Reinsurance [Abstract]
Schedule IV — Reinsurance	Schedule IV — Reinsurance ($ in millions) Gross amount Ceded to other companies (1) Assumed from other companies Net amount Percentage of amount assumed to net Year ended December 31, 2018 Life insurance in force $ 207,434 $ 81,186 $ 243,161 $ 369,409 65.8 % Premiums and contract charges: Life insurance $ 994 $ 266 $ 754 $ 1,482 50.9 % Accident and health insurance 1,007 24 — 983 — % Property and casualty insurance 34,977 1,016 87 34,048 0.3 % Total premiums and contract charges $ 36,978 $ 1,306 $ 841 $ 36,513 2.3 % Year ended December 31, 2017 Life insurance in force $ 188,186 $ 86,642 $ 259,671 $ 361,215 71.9 % Premiums and contract charges: Life insurance $ 936 $ 276 $ 787 $ 1,447 54.4 % Accident and health insurance 958 27 — 931 — % Property and casualty insurance 33,221 971 50 32,300 0.2 % Total premiums and contract charges $ 35,115 $ 1,274 $ 837 $ 34,678 2.4 % Year ended December 31, 2016 Life insurance in force $ 167,355 $ 90,011 $ 275,008 $ 352,352 78.0 % Premiums and contract charges: Life insurance $ 877 $ 279 $ 818 $ 1,416 57.8 % Accident and health insurance 889 30 — 859 — % Property and casualty insurance 32,249 987 45 31,307 0.1 % Total premiums and contract charges $ 34,015 $ 1,296 $ 863 $ 33,582 2.6 % (1) No reinsurance or coinsurance income was netted against premium ceded in 2018 , 2017 or 2016 .

Schedule V - Valuation Allowanc

Schedule V - Valuation Allowances and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule V — Valuation Allowances and Qualifying Accounts	Schedule V — Valuation Allowances and Qualifying Accounts ($ in millions) Additions Description Balance as of beginning of period Charged to costs and expenses Other additions Deductions Balance as of end of period Year ended December 31, 2018 Allowance for reinsurance recoverables $ 70 $ (5 ) $ — $ — $ 65 Allowance for premium installment receivable 77 118 — 118 77 Allowance for deferred tax assets — — — — — Allowance for estimated losses on mortgage loans 3 — — — 3 Year ended December 31, 2017 Allowance for reinsurance recoverables $ 84 $ (10 ) $ — $ 4 $ 70 Allowance for premium installment receivable 84 109 — 116 77 Allowance for deferred tax assets — — — — — Allowance for estimated losses on mortgage loans 3 1 — 1 3 Year ended December 31, 2016 Allowance for reinsurance recoverables $ 80 $ 5 $ — $ 1 $ 84 Allowance for premium installment receivable 90 107 — 113 84 Allowance for deferred tax assets — — — — — Allowance for estimated losses on mortgage loans 3 — — — 3

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of presentation	Basis of presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Allstate Corporation (the “Corporation”) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, primarily Allstate Insurance Company (“AIC”), a property and casualty insurance company with various property and casualty and life and investment subsidiaries, including Allstate Life Insurance Company (“ALIC”) (collectively referred to as the “Company” or “Allstate”). These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Risks and uncertainties	Risks and uncertainties Allstate has exposure to catastrophes, an inherent risk of the property and casualty insurance business, which have contributed, and will continue to contribute, to material year-to-year fluctuations in the Company’s results of operations and financial position (see Note 8). The nature and level of catastrophic loss caused by natural events (high winds, winter storms, tornadoes, hailstorms, wildfires, tropical storms, hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanoes) and man-made events (terrorism and industrial accidents) experienced in any period cannot be predicted and could be material to results of operations and financial position. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to wildfires to generally be in the states of California, Colorado, Arizona and Texas. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to hurricanes to generally be major metropolitan centers in counties along the eastern and gulf coasts of the United States. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to hailstorms to generally be in the states of Texas, Illinois, Colorado and Georgia. The Company considers the greatest areas of potential catastrophe losses due to earthquakes and fires following earthquakes to be major metropolitan areas near fault lines in the states of California, Oregon, Washington, South Carolina, Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee. The Company also has exposure to asbestos, environmental and other discontinued lines claims (see Notes 8 and 14).
Investments	Investments Fixed income securities include bonds, asset-backed securities (“ABS”), residential mortgage-backed securities (“RMBS”), commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and redeemable preferred stocks. Fixed income securities, which may be sold prior to their contractual maturity, are designated as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value. The difference between amortized cost and fair value, net of deferred income taxes and related life and annuity deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”), deferred sales inducement costs (“DSI”) and reserves for life-contingent contract benefits, is reflected as a component of AOCI. Cash received from calls and make-whole payments is reflected as a component of proceeds from sales and cash received from maturities and pay-downs is reflected as a component of investment collections within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Equity securities primarily include common stocks, exchange traded and mutual funds, non-redeemable preferred stocks and real estate investment trust equity investments. Certain exchange traded and mutual funds have fixed income securities as their underlying investments. Equity securities are carried at fair value. Equity securities without readily determinable or estimable fair values are measured using the measurement alternative, which is cost less impairment, if any, and adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer. The periodic change in fair value of equity securities is recognized within realized capital gains and losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations effective January 1, 2018. Mortgage loans are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premium or discount and valuation allowances. Valuation allowances are established for impaired loans when it is probable that contractual principal and interest will not be collected. Investments in limited partnership interests are primarily accounted for in accordance with the equity method of accounting (“EMA”) and include interests in private equity funds, real estate funds and other funds. Investments in limited partnership interests purchased prior to January 1, 2018, where the Company’s interest is so minor that it exercises virtually no influence over operating and financial policies, are accounted for at fair value primarily utilizing the net asset value (“NAV”) as a practical expedient to determine fair value. Short-term investments, including commercial paper, U.S. Treasury bills, money market funds and other short-term investments, are carried at fair value. Other investments primarily consist of bank loans, policy loans, real estate, agent loans and derivatives. Bank loans are primarily senior secured corporate loans and are carried at amortized cost. Policy loans are carried at unpaid principal balances. Real estate is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Agent loans are loans issued to exclusive Allstate agents and are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of valuation allowances and unamortized deferred fees or costs. Derivatives are carried at fair value. Investment income primarily consists of interest, dividends, income from limited partnership interests, rental income from real estate, and income from certain derivative transactions. Interest is recognized on an accrual basis using the effective yield method and dividends are recorded at the ex-dividend date. Interest income for ABS, RMBS and CMBS is determined considering estimated pay-downs, including prepayments, obtained from third party data sources and internal estimates. Actual prepayment experience is periodically reviewed and effective yields are recalculated when differences arise between the prepayments originally anticipated and the actual prepayments received and currently anticipated. For ABS, RMBS and CMBS of high credit quality with fixed interest rates, the effective yield is recalculated on a retrospective basis. For all others, the effective yield is recalculated on a prospective basis. Accrual of income is suspended for other-than-temporarily impaired fixed income securities when the timing and amount of cash flows expected to be received is not reasonably estimable. Accrual of income is suspended for mortgage loans, bank loans and agent loans that are in default or when full and timely collection of principal and interest payments is not probable. Cash receipts on investments on nonaccrual status are generally recorded as a reduction of carrying value. Income from limited partnership interests carried at fair value is recognized based upon the changes in fair value of the investee’s equity primarily determined using NAV. Income from EMA limited partnership interests is recognized based on the Company’s share of the partnerships’ earnings. Income from EMA limited partnership interests is generally recognized on a three month delay due to the availability of the related financial statements from investees. Realized capital gains and losses include gains and losses on investment sales, write-downs in value due to other-than-temporary declines in fair value, adjustments to valuation allowances on mortgage loans and agent loans, valuation changes of equity investments, including equity securities and certain limited partnerships where the underlying assets are predominately public equity securities, and periodic changes in fair value and settlements of certain derivatives including hedge ineffectiveness. Realized capital gains and losses on investment sales are determined on a specific identification basis.
Derivative and embedded derivative financial instruments	Derivative and embedded derivative financial instruments Derivative financial instruments include interest rate swaps, credit default swaps, futures (interest rate and equity), options (including swaptions), interest rate caps, warrants and rights, foreign currency swaps, foreign currency forwards, total return swaps and certain investment risk transfer reinsurance agreements. Derivatives required to be separated from the host instrument and accounted for as derivative financial instruments (“subject to bifurcation”) are embedded in equity-indexed life and annuity contracts and reinsured variable annuity contracts. All derivatives are accounted for on a fair value basis and reported as other investments, other assets, other liabilities and accrued expenses or contractholder funds. Embedded derivative instruments subject to bifurcation are also accounted for on a fair value basis and are reported together with the host contract. The change in fair value of derivatives embedded in life and annuity product contracts and subject to bifurcation is reported in life and annuity contract benefits or interest credited to contractholder funds. Cash flows from embedded derivatives subject to bifurcation and derivatives receiving hedge accounting are reported consistently with the host contracts and hedged risks, respectively, within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Cash flows from other derivatives are reported in cash flows from investing activities within the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. When derivatives meet specific criteria, they may be designated as accounting hedges and accounted for as fair value, cash flow, foreign currency fair value or foreign currency cash flow hedges. The hedged item may be either all or a specific portion of a recognized asset, liability or an unrecognized firm commitment attributable to a particular risk for fair value hedges. At the inception of the hedge, the Company formally documents the hedging relationship and risk management objective and strategy. The documentation identifies the hedging instrument, the hedged item, the nature of the risk being hedged and the methodology used to assess the effectiveness of the hedging instrument in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value attributable to the hedged risk. For a cash flow hedge, this documentation includes the exposure to changes in the variability in cash flows attributable to the hedged risk. The Company does not exclude any component of the change in fair value of the hedging instrument from the effectiveness assessment. At each reporting date, the Company confirms that the hedging instrument continues to be highly effective in offsetting the hedged risk. Ineffectiveness in fair value hedges and cash flow hedges, if any, is reported in realized capital gains and losses. Fair value hedges The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of investment assets or a portion thereof is reported in net investment income, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. The change in fair value of hedging instruments used in fair value hedges of contractholder funds liabilities or a portion thereof is reported in interest credited to contractholder funds, together with the change in fair value of the hedged items. Accrued periodic settlements on swaps are reported together with the changes in fair value of the related swaps in net investment income or interest credited to contractholder funds. The amortized cost for fixed income securities, the carrying value for mortgage loans or the carrying value of a designated hedged liability is adjusted for the change in fair value of the hedged risk. Cash flow hedges For hedging instruments used in cash flow hedges, the changes in fair value of the derivatives representing the effective portion of the hedge are reported in AOCI. Amounts are reclassified to net investment income, realized capital gains and losses or interest expense as the hedged or forecasted transaction affects income. Accrued periodic settlements on derivatives used in cash flow hedges are reported in net investment income. The amount reported in AOCI for a hedged transaction is limited to the lesser of the cumulative gain or loss on the derivative less the amount reclassified to income, or the cumulative gain or loss on the derivative needed to offset the cumulative change in the expected future cash flows on the hedged transaction from inception of the hedge less the derivative gain or loss previously reclassified from AOCI to income. If the Company expects at any time that the loss reported in AOCI would lead to a net loss on the combination of the hedging instrument and the hedged transaction which may not be recoverable, a loss is recognized immediately in realized capital gains and losses. If an impairment loss is recognized on an asset or an additional obligation is incurred on a liability involved in a hedge transaction, any offsetting gain in AOCI is reclassified and reported together with the impairment loss or recognition of the obligation. Termination of hedge accounting If, subsequent to entering into a hedge transaction, the derivative becomes ineffective (including if the hedged item is sold or otherwise extinguished, the occurrence of a hedged forecasted transaction is no longer probable or the hedged asset becomes other-than-temporarily impaired), the Company may terminate the derivative position. The Company may also terminate derivative instruments or redesignate them as non-hedge as a result of other events or circumstances. If the derivative instrument is not terminated when a fair value hedge is no longer effective, the future gains and losses recognized on the derivative are reported in realized capital gains and losses. When a fair value hedge is no longer effective, is redesignated as non-hedge or when the derivative has been terminated, the fair value gain or loss on the hedged asset, liability or portion thereof previously recognized in income while the hedge was in place and used to adjust the amortized cost of hedged fixed income securities, carrying value of hedged mortgage loans or carrying value of a hedged liability, is amortized over the remaining life of the hedged asset, liability or portion thereof, and reflected in net investment income or interest credited to contractholder funds beginning in the period that hedge accounting is no longer applied. If the hedged item in a fair value hedge is an asset that has become other-than-temporarily impaired, the adjustment made to the amortized cost for fixed income securities or the carrying value for mortgage loans is subject to the accounting policies applied to other-than-temporarily impaired assets. When a derivative instrument used in a cash flow hedge of an existing asset or liability is no longer effective or is terminated, the gain or loss recognized on the derivative is reclassified from AOCI to income as the hedged risk impacts income. If the derivative instrument is not terminated when a cash flow hedge is no longer effective, future gains and losses recognized on the derivative are reported in realized capital gains and losses. When a derivative instrument used in a cash flow hedge of a forecasted transaction is terminated because it is probable the forecasted transaction will not occur, the gain or loss recognized on the derivative is immediately reclassified from AOCI to realized capital gains and losses in the period that hedge accounting is no longer applied. Non-hedge derivative financial instruments For derivatives for which hedge accounting is not applied, the income statement effects, including fair value gains and losses and accrued periodic settlements, are reported either in realized capital gains and losses or in a single line item together with the results of the associated asset or liability for which risks are being managed.
Securities loaned	Securities loaned The Company’s business activities include securities lending transactions, which are used primarily to generate net investment income. The proceeds received in conjunction with securities lending transactions are reinvested in short-term investments or fixed income securities. These transactions are short-term in nature, usually 30 days or less. The Company receives cash collateral for securities loaned in an amount generally equal to 102% and 105% of the fair value of domestic and foreign securities, respectively, and records the related obligations to return the collateral in other liabilities and accrued expenses. The carrying value of these obligations approximates fair value because of their relatively short-term nature. The Company monitors the market value of securities loaned on a daily basis and obtains additional collateral as necessary under the terms of the agreements to mitigate counterparty credit risk. The Company maintains the right and ability to repossess the securities loaned on short notice.
Recognition of premium revenues and contract charges, and related benefits and interest credited	Recognition of premium revenues and contract charges, and related benefits and interest credited Property and casualty insurance premiums include premiums from personal lines policies, protection plans, other contracts (primarily finance and insurance products) and roadside assistance. Personal lines insurance premiums are deferred and earned on a pro-rata basis over the terms of the policies, typically periods of six or twelve months. Revenues related to protection plans, other contracts (primarily finance and insurance products) and roadside assistance are deferred and earned over the term of the contract in a manner that recognizes revenue as obligations under the contracts are performed. Revenues from these products are classified as premiums as the products are backed by insurance. Protection plans and finance and insurance premiums are recognized using a cost-based incurrence method over the term of the contracts, which is generally over one to five years. Roadside assistance premiums are recognized evenly over the term of the contract as performance obligations are fulfilled . The portion of premiums written applicable to the unexpired terms of the policies is recorded as unearned premiums. Premium installment receivables, net, represent premiums written and not yet collected, net of an allowance for uncollectible premiums. The Company regularly evaluates premium installment receivables and adjusts its valuation allowance as appropriate. The valuation allowance for uncollectible premium installment receivables was $77 million as of both December 31, 2018 and 2017 . Traditional life insurance products consist principally of products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits, primarily term and whole life insurance products. Voluntary accident and health insurance products are expected to remain in force for an extended period and therefore are primarily classified as long-duration contracts. Premiums from these products are recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. Benefits are reflected in contract benefits and recognized over the life of the policy in relation to premiums. Immediate annuities with life contingencies, including certain structured settlement annuities, provide benefits over a period that extends beyond the period during which premiums are collected. Premiums from these products are recognized as revenue when received at the inception of the contract. Benefits and expenses are recognized in relation to premiums. Profits from these policies come primarily from investment income, which is recognized over the life of the contract. Interest-sensitive life contracts, such as universal life and single premium life, are insurance contracts whose terms are not fixed and guaranteed. The terms that may be changed include premiums paid by the contractholder, interest credited to the contractholder account balance and contract charges assessed against the contractholder account balance. Premiums from these contracts are reported as contractholder fund deposits. Contract charges consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balance for the cost of insurance (mortality risk), contract administration and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates. These contract charges are recognized as revenue when assessed against the contractholder account balance. Contract benefits include life-contingent benefit payments in excess of the contractholder account balance. Contracts that do not subject the Company to significant risk arising from mortality or morbidity are referred to as investment contracts. Fixed annuities, including market value adjusted annuities, equity-indexed annuities and immediate annuities without life contingencies, are considered investment contracts. Consideration received for such contracts is reported as contractholder fund deposits. Contract charges for investment contracts consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balance for maintenance, administration and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates, and are recognized when assessed against the contractholder account balance. Interest credited to contractholder funds represents interest accrued or paid on interest-sensitive life and investment contracts. Crediting rates for certain fixed annuities and interest-sensitive life contracts are adjusted periodically by the Company to reflect current market conditions subject to contractually guaranteed minimum rates. Crediting rates for indexed life and annuities and indexed funding agreements are generally based on a specified interest rate index or an equity index, such as the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (“S&P 500”). Interest credited also includes amortization of DSI expenses. DSI is amortized into interest credited using the same method used to amortize DAC. Contract charges for variable life and variable annuity products consist of fees assessed against the contractholder account balances for contract maintenance, administration, mortality, expense and surrender of the contract prior to contractually specified dates. Contract benefits incurred for variable annuity products include guaranteed minimum death, income, withdrawal and accumulation benefits. Substantially all of the Company’s variable annuity business is ceded through reinsurance agreements and the contract charges and contract benefits related thereto are reported net of reinsurance ceded.
Deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement costs	Deferred policy acquisition and sales inducement costs Costs that are related directly to the successful acquisition of new or renewal insurance policies and investment contracts are deferred and recorded as DAC. These costs are principally agency’s and brokers’ remuneration, premium taxes and certain underwriting expenses. DSI costs, which are deferred and recorded as other assets, relate to sales inducements offered on sales to new customers, principally on fixed annuity and interest-sensitive life contracts. These sales inducements are primarily in the form of additional credits to the customer’s account balance or enhancements to interest credited for a specified period which are in excess of the rates currently being credited to similar contracts without sales inducements. DSI is amortized into income using the same methodology and assumptions as DAC and is included in interest credited to contractholder funds. All other acquisition costs are expensed as incurred and included in operating costs and expenses. For property and casualty insurance, DAC is amortized into income as premiums are earned, typically over periods of six or twelve months for personal lines policies or generally one to five years for protection plans and other contracts (primarily related to finance and insurance products), and is included in amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs. DAC associated with property and casualty insurance is periodically reviewed for recoverability and adjusted if necessary. Future investment income is considered in determining the recoverability of DAC. For traditional life and voluntary accident and health insurance, DAC is amortized over the premium paying period of the related policies in proportion to the estimated revenues on such business. Assumptions used in the amortization of DAC and reserve calculations are established at the time the policy is issued and are generally not revised during the life of the policy. Any deviations from projected business in force resulting from actual policy terminations differing from expected levels and any estimated premium deficiencies may result in a change to the rate of amortization in the period such events occur. Generally, the amortization periods for these policies approximates the estimated lives of the policies. The Company periodically reviews the recoverability of DAC for these policies using actual experience and current assumptions. Prior to fourth quarter 2017, the Company evaluated traditional life insurance products and immediate annuities with life contingencies on an aggregate basis. In conjunction with the segment changes that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2017, traditional life insurance products, immediate annuities with life contingencies, and voluntary accident and health insurance products are reviewed individually. If actual experience and current assumptions are adverse compared to the original assumptions and a premium deficiency is determined to exist, any remaining unamortized DAC balance would be expensed to the extent not recoverable and the establishment of a premium deficiency reserve may be required. For interest-sensitive life insurance, DAC and DSI are amortized in proportion to the incidence of the total present value of gross profits, which includes both actual historical gross profits (“AGP”) and estimated future gross profits (“EGP”) expected to be earned over the estimated lives of the contracts. The amortization is net of interest on the prior period DAC balance using rates established at the inception of the contracts. Actual amortization periods generally range from 15 - 30 years; however, incorporating estimates of the rate of customer surrenders, partial withdrawals and deaths generally results in the majority of the DAC being amortized during the surrender charge period, which is typically 10 - 20 years for interest-sensitive life. The rate of DAC and DSI amortization is reestimated and adjusted by a cumulative charge or credit to income when there is a difference between the incidence of actual versus expected gross profits in a reporting period or when there is a change in total EGP. When DAC or DSI amortization or a component of gross profits for a quarterly period is potentially negative (which would result in an increase of the DAC or DSI balance) as a result of negative AGP, the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the potential negative amortization are considered to determine whether it is appropriate for recognition in the consolidated financial statements. Negative amortization is only recorded when the increased DAC or DSI balance is determined to be recoverable based on facts and circumstances. Recapitalization of DAC and DSI is limited to the originally deferred costs plus interest. AGP and EGP primarily consist of the following components: contract charges for the cost of insurance less mortality costs and other benefits; investment income and realized capital gains and losses less interest credited; and surrender and other contract charges less maintenance expenses. The principal assumptions for determining the amount of EGP are mortality, persistency, expenses, investment returns, including capital gains and losses on assets supporting contract liabilities, interest crediting rates to contractholders, and the effects of any hedges. For products whose supporting investments are exposed to capital losses in excess of the Company’s expectations which may cause periodic AGP to become temporarily negative, EGP and AGP utilized in DAC and DSI amortization may be modified to exclude the excess capital losses. The Company performs quarterly reviews of DAC and DSI recoverability for interest-sensitive life and fixed annuity contracts using current assumptions. If a change in the amount of EGP is significant, it could result in the unamortized DAC or DSI not being recoverable, resulting in a charge which is included as a component of amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs or interest credited to contractholder funds, respectively. The DAC and DSI balances presented include adjustments to reflect the amount by which the amortization of DAC and DSI would increase or decrease if the unrealized capital gains or losses in the respective product investment portfolios were actually realized. The adjustments are recorded net of tax in AOCI. DAC, DSI and deferred income taxes determined on unrealized capital gains and losses and reported in AOCI recognize the impact on shareholders’ equity consistently with the amounts that would be recognized in the income statement on realized capital gains and losses. Customers of the Company may exchange one insurance policy or investment contract for another offered by the Company, or make modifications to an existing investment, life or property and casualty contract issued by the Company. These transactions are identified as internal replacements for accounting purposes. Internal replacement transactions determined to result in replacement contracts that are substantially unchanged from the replaced contracts are accounted for as continuations of the replaced contracts. Unamortized DAC and DSI related to the replaced contracts continue to be deferred and amortized in connection with the replacement contracts. For interest-sensitive life and investment contracts, the EGP of the replacement contracts are treated as a revision to the EGP of the replaced contracts in the determination of amortization of DAC and DSI. For traditional life and property and casualty insurance policies, any changes to unamortized DAC that result from replacement contracts are treated as prospective revisions. Any costs associated with the issuance of replacement contracts are characterized as maintenance costs and expensed as incurred. Internal replacement transactions determined to result in a substantial change to the replaced contracts are accounted for as an extinguishment of the replaced contracts, and any unamortized DAC and DSI related to the replaced contracts are eliminated with a corresponding charge to amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs or interest credited to contractholder funds, respectively. The costs assigned to the right to receive future cash flows from certain business purchased from other insurers are also classified as DAC in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. The costs capitalized represent the present value of future profits expected to be earned over the lives of the contracts acquired. These costs are amortized as profits emerge over the lives of the acquired business and are periodically evaluated for recoverability.
Reinsurance and Indemnification	Reinsurance and Indemnification Reinsurance In the normal course of business, the Company seeks to limit aggregate and single exposure to losses on large risks by purchasing reinsurance. The Company has also used reinsurance to effect the disposition of certain blocks of business. Reinsurance does not extinguish the Company’s primary liability under the policies written. Therefore, the Company regularly evaluates the financial condition of its reinsurers, including their activities with respect to claim settlement practices and commutations, and establishes allowances for uncollectible reinsurance as appropriate. Indemnification The Company also participates in various indemnification mechanisms, including industry pools and facilities, which are backed by the financial resources of the property and casualty insurance company market participants. Indemnification recoverables are considered collectible based on the industry pool and facility enabling legislation. The amounts reported as reinsurance and indemnification recoverables include amounts billed to reinsurers and indemnitors on losses paid as well as estimates of amounts expected to be recovered from reinsurers and indemnitors on insurance liabilities and contractholder funds that have not yet been paid. Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables on unpaid losses are estimated based upon assumptions consistent with those used in establishing the liabilities related to the underlying contracts. Insurance liabilities are reported gross of reinsurance and indemnification recoverables. Reinsurance and indemnification premiums are generally reflected in income in a manner consistent with the recognition of premiums on the associated contracts. For catastrophe coverage, the cost of reinsurance premiums is recognized ratably over the contract period to the extent coverage remains available.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of amounts paid for acquirin g businesses over the fair value of the net assets acquired, less any impairment of goodwill recognized. The Company’s goodwill reporting units are equivalent to its reportable segments, Allstate Protection, Service Businesses, Allstate Life and Allstate Benefits to which goodwill has been assigned. Goodwill by reporting unit As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Allstate Protection $ 810 $ 810 Service Businesses 1,449 1,100 Allstate Life 175 175 Allstate Benefits 96 96 Total $ 2,530 $ 2,181 Goodwill is recognized when acquired and allocated to reporting units based on which unit is expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually. The Company performs its annual goodwill impairment testing during the fourth quarter of each year based upon data as of the close of the third quarter. G oodwill impairment is measured and recognized as the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value, including goodwill, exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. The Company also reviews goodwill for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances, such as deteriorating or adverse market conditions, indicate that it is more likely than not that the carrying amount of goodwill may exceed its implied fair value. The goodwill impairment analysis is performed at the reporting unit level. In fourth quarter 2017, the Company adopted new reportable segments, which required the Company to evaluate goodwill, including the allocation of goodwill to any new reporting units on a relative fair value basis. The reallocation was computed using fair values for the goodwill reporting units determined using discounted cash flow (“DCF”) calculations and market to book multiples derived from a peer company analysis as described below. In conjunction with the reallocation of goodwill, the Company recognized $125 million of goodwill impairment related to the goodwill allocated to the Allstate Annuities reporting unit reflecting a market-based valuation. T he fair value of the Company’s reporting units exceeded their carrying values. Upon acquisition, the purchase price of the acquired business is assumed to be its fair value. Subsequently, the Company estimates the fair value of the businesses in each goodwill reporting unit, utilizing a combination of widely accepted valuation techniques including a stock price and market capitalization analysis, DCF calculations and an estimate of a business’s fair value using market to book multiples derived from peer company analysis. The stock price and market capitalization analysis takes into consideration the quoted market price of the Company’s outstanding common stock and includes a control premium, derived from relevant historical acquisition activity, in determining the estimated fair value of the consolidated entity before allocating that fair value to individual reporting units. The DCF analysis utilizes long term assumptions for revenues, investment income, benefits, claims, other operating expenses and income taxes to produce projections of both income and cash flows available for dividends that are present valued using weighted average cost of capital. Market to book multiples represent the mean market to book multiple for selected peer companies with operations similar to the Company’s goodwill reporting units to which the multiple is applied. The outputs from these methods are weighted based on the nature of the business and the relative amount of market observable assumptions supporting the estimates. The computed values are then weighted to reflect the fair value estimate based on the specific attributes of each goodwill reporting unit.
Intangible assets, finite-lived	Intangible assets Intangible assets (reported in other assets) consist of capitalized costs primarily related to acquired customer relationships, trade names and licenses, technology and other assets. The estimated useful lives of customer relationships, technology and other intangible assets are generally 10 years, 5 years and 7 years, respectively. Intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization expense is calculated using an accelerated amortization method.
Intangible assets, indefinite-lived	Trade names and licenses are considered to have an indefinite useful life and are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequent if circumstances arise that indicate an impairment may have occurred. An impairment is recognized if the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value.
Property and equipment	Property and equipment Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Included in property and equipment are capitalized costs related to computer software licenses and software developed for internal use. These costs generally consist of certain external payroll and payroll related costs. Property and equipment depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally 3 to 10 years for equipment and 40 years for real property. Depreciation expense is reported in operating costs and expenses. Accumulated depreciation on property and equipment was $2.41 billion and $2.27 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Depreciation expense on property and equipment was $299 million , $290 million and $267 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company reviews its property and equipment for impairment at least annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
Income taxes	Income taxes Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method under which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities at the enacted tax rates. The principal assets and liabilities giving rise to such differences are DAC, unearned premiums, investments (including unrealized capital gains and losses) and insurance reserves. A deferred tax asset valuation allowance is established when it is more likely than not such assets will not be realized.
Reserves for property-liability insurance claims and claims expense and life-contingent contract benefits	Reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense The reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense is the estimate of amounts necessary to settle all reported and unreported incurred claims for the ultimate cost of insured property and casualty losses, based upon the facts of each case and the Company’s experience with similar cases. Estimated amounts of salvage and subrogation are deducted from the reserve for claims and claims expense. The establishment of appropriate reserves, including reserves for catastrophe losses, is an inherently uncertain and complex process. Reserve estimates are primarily derived using an actuarial estimation process in which historical loss patterns are applied to actual paid losses and reported losses (paid losses plus individual case reserves established by claim adjusters) for an accident or report year to create an estimate of how losses are likely to develop over time. Development factors are calculated quarterly and periodically throughout the year for data elements such as claims reported and settled, paid losses, and paid losses combined with case reserves. The historical development patterns for these data elements are used as the assumptions to calculate reserve estimates, including the reserves for reported and unreported claims. Reserve estimates are regularly reviewed and updated, using the most current information available. Any resulting reestimates are reflected in current results of operations. Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits The reserve for life-contingent contract benefits payable under insurance policies, including traditional life insurance, life-contingent immediate annuities and voluntary accident and health insurance products, is computed on the basis of long-term actuarial assumptions of future investment yields, mortality, morbidity, policy terminations and expenses. These assumptions, which for traditional life insurance are applied using the net level premium method, include provisions for adverse deviation and generally vary by characteristics such as type of coverage, year of issue and policy duration. The assumptions are established at the time the policy is issued and are generally not changed during the life of the policy. The Company periodically reviews the adequacy of reserves for these policies using actual experience and current assumptions. If actual experience and current assumptions are adverse compared to the original assumptions and a premium deficiency is determined to exist, any remaining unamortized DAC balance would be expensed to the extent not recoverable and the establishment of a premium deficiency reserve may be required. Prior to fourth quarter 2017, the Company evaluated traditional life insurance products and immediate annuities with life contingencies on an aggregate basis. In conjunction with the Company’s segment changes that occurred in the fourth quarter of 2017, traditional life insurance products, immediate annuities with life contingencies, and voluntary accident and health insurance are reviewed individually. The Company also reviews these policies for circumstances where projected profits would be recognized in early years followed by projected losses in later years. If this circumstance exists, the Company will accrue a liability, during the period of profits, to offset the losses at such time as the future losses are expected to commence using a method updated prospectively over time. To the extent that unrealized gains on fixed income securities would result in a premium deficiency if those gains were realized, the related increase in reserves for certain immediate annuities with life contingencies is recorded net of tax as a reduction of unrealized net capital gains included in AOCI.
Contractholder funds	Contractholder funds Contractholder funds represent interest-bearing liabilities arising from the sale of products such as interest-sensitive life insurance, fixed annuities and funding agreements. Contractholder funds primarily comprise cumulative deposits received and interest credited to the contractholder less cumulative contract benefits, surrenders, withdrawals, maturities and contract charges for mortality or administrative expenses. Contractholder funds also include reserves for secondary guarantees on interest-sensitive life insurance and certain fixed annuity contracts and reserves for certain guarantees on reinsured variable annuity contracts.
Separate accounts	Separate accounts Separate accounts assets are carried at fair value. The assets of the separate accounts are legally segregated and available only to settle separate accounts contract obligations. Separate accounts liabilities represent the contractholders’ claims to the related assets and are carried at an amount equal to the separate accounts assets. Investment income and realized capital gains and losses of the separate accounts accrue directly to the contractholders and therefore are not included in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Deposits to and surrenders and withdrawals from the separate accounts are reflected in separate accounts liabilities and are not included in consolidated cash flows. Absent any contract provision wherein the Company provides a guarantee, variable annuity and variable life insurance contractholders bear the investment risk that the separate accounts’ funds may not meet their stated investment objectives. Substantially all of the Company’s variable annuity business was reinsured beginning in 2006.
Legal contingencies	Legal contingencies The Company reviews its lawsuits, regulatory inquiries, and other legal proceedings on an ongoing basis. The Company establishes accruals for such matters at management’s best estimate when the Company assesses that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company’s assessment of whether a loss is reasonably possible or probable is based on its assessment of the ultimate outcome of the matter following all appeals. The Company does not include potential recoveries in its estimates of reasonably possible or probable losses. Legal fees are expensed as incurred.
Deferred ESOP expense	Deferred ESOP expense Deferred ESOP expense represents the remaining unrecognized cost of shares acquired by the Allstate ESOP to pre-fund a portion of the Company’s contribution to the Allstate 401(k) Savings Plan.
Equity incentive plans	Equity incentive plans The Company has equity incentive plans under which the Company grants nonqualified stock options, restricted stock units and performance stock awards (“equity awards”) to certain employees and directors of the Company. The Company measures the fair value of equity awards at the award date and recognizes the expense over the shorter of the period in which the requisite service is rendered or retirement eligibility is attained. The expense for performance stock awards is adjusted each period to reflect the performance factor most likely to be achieved at the end of the performance period. The Company uses a binomial lattice model to determine the fair value of employee stock options.
Off-balance sheet financial instruments	Off-balance sheet financial instruments Commitments to invest, commitments to purchase private placement securities, commitments to extend loans, financial guarantees and credit guarantees have off-balance sheet risk because their contractual amounts are not recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (see Notes 7 and 14).
Consolidation of variable interest entities ("VIEs")	Consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIEs”) The Company consolidates VIEs when it is the primary beneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the variable interest holder in a VIE with both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE and the obligation to absorb losses, or the right to receive benefits, that could potentially be significant to the VIE.
Foreign currency translation	Foreign currency translation The local currency of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries is deemed to be the functional currency of the country in which these subsidiaries operate. The financial statements of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at the end of a reporting period for assets and liabilities and at average exchange rates during the period for results of operations. The unrealized gains and losses from the translation of the net assets are recorded as unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments and included in AOCI. Changes in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments are included in OCI. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are reported in operating costs and expenses and have not been material.
Earnings per common share	Earnings per common share Basic earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, including vested unissued participating restricted stock units. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common and dilutive potential common shares outstanding. For the Company, dilutive potential common shares consist of outstanding stock options and unvested non-participating restricted stock units and contingently issuable performance stock awards.
Accounting standards	Adopted accounting standards Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted new FASB guidance requiring equity investments, including equity securities and limited partnership interests not accounted for under the equity method of accounting or that do not result in consolidation to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The guidance clarifies that an entity should evaluate the realizability of deferred tax assets related to available-for-sale fixed income securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets. The Company’s adoption of the new FASB guidance included adoption of the relevant elements of Technical Corrections and Improvements to Financial Instruments, issued in February 2018. Upon adoption of the new guidance on January 1, 2018, $1.16 billion of pre-tax unrealized net capital gains for equity securities were reclassified from AOCI to retained income. The after-tax change in accounting for equity securities did not affect the Company’s total shareholders’ equity and the unrealized net capital gains of $910 million reclassified to retained income will never be recognized in net income. Upon adoption of the new guidance on January 1, 2018, the carrying value of cost method limited partnership interests increased $224 million pre-tax, to fair value. The after-tax cumulative-effect increase in retained income of $177 million increased the Company’s shareholders’ equity but will never be recognized in net income thereby negatively impacting calculations of returns on equity. Revenue from Contracts with Customers Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted new FASB guidance which revises the criteria for revenue recognition. Insurance contracts are excluded from the scope of the new guidance. The Company’s principal activities impacted by the new guidance are those related to the issuance of protection plans for consumer products and automobiles and service contracts that provide roadside assistance. Under the guidance, the transaction price is attributed to underlying performance obligations in the contract and revenue is recognized as the entity satisfies performance obligations and transfers control of a good or service to the customer. Incremental costs of obtaining a contract may be capitalized and amortized to the extent the entity expects to recover those costs. Adoption of the guidance on January 1, 2018 under the modified retrospective approach resulted in the recognition of an immaterial after-tax net cumulative effect increase to the beginning balance of retained income. In addition to the net cumulative effect, the Company also recorded in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position an increase of approximately $160 million pre-tax in unearned premiums with a corresponding $160 million pre-tax increase in DAC for protection plans sold directly to retailers prior to January 1, 2018 for which SquareTrade Holding Company, Inc. (“SquareTrade”) is deemed to be the principal in the transaction. This impact offsets fully and did not impact retained income at the date of adoption. Presentation of Net Periodic Pension and Postretirement Benefits Costs Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted new FASB guidance requiring identification, on the statement of operations or in disclosures, the line items in which the components of net periodic pension and postretirement benefits costs are presented. The new guidance permits only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization where applicable. The adoption had no impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. Goodwill Impairment In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance to simplify the accounting for goodwill impairment which removes the second step of the goodwill impairment test that requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation. Under the new guidance, goodwill impairment will be measured and recognized as the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value, including goodwill, exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. The revised guidance does not affect a reporting entity’s ability to first assess qualitative factors by reporting unit to determine whether to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The guidance is to be applied on a prospective basis, with the effects, if any, recognized in net income in the period of adoption. The Company elected to early adopt the new guidance as of January 1, 2018. The adoption had no impact on the Company’s results of operations or financial position. Pending accounting standards Accounting for Leases In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance revising the accounting for leases. Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset and lease liability for all leases other than those with a term less than one year. The lease liability will be equal to the present value of lease payments. A ROU asset will be based on the lease liability adjusted for qualifying initial direct costs. The Company currently estimates that the recognition of the ROU asset and lease liability will result in an increase in both total assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position of approximately $500 million . The new guidance requires sellers in a sale-leaseback transaction to recognize the entire gain from the sale of an underlying asset at the time the sale is recognized rather than over the leaseback term. The carrying value of unrecognized gains on sale-leaseback transactions executed prior to January 1, 2019 are approximately $20 million , after-tax, and will be recorded as an increase to retained income at adoption. The expense of operating leases under the new guidance will be recognized in the income statement on a straight-line basis by adjusting the amortization of the ROU asset to produce a straight-line expense when combined with the interest expense on the lease liability. For finance leases, the expense components are computed separately and produce greater up-front expense compared to operating leases as interest expense on the lease liability is higher in early years and the ROU asset is amortized on a straight-line basis. Lease classification will be based on criteria similar to those currently applied. The accounting model for lessors will be similar to the current model with modifications to reflect definition changes for components such as initial direct costs. Lessors will continue to classify leases as operating, direct financing, or sales-type. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and will be implemented using the optional transition method that allows application of the transition provisions at the adoption date instead of the earliest date presented. Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments In June 2016, the FASB issued guidance which revises the credit loss recognition criteria for certain financial assets measured at amortized cost, including reinsurance recoverables. The new guidance replaces the existing incurred loss recognition model with an expected loss recognition model. The objective of the expected credit loss model is for the reporting entity to recognize its estimate of expected credit losses for affected financial assets in a valuation allowance deducted from the amortized cost basis of the related financial assets that results in presenting the net carrying value of the financial assets at the amount expected to be collected. The reporting entity must consider all relevant information available when estimating expected credit losses, including details about past events, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts over the life of an asset. Financial assets may be evaluated individually or on a pooled basis when they share similar risk characteristics. The measurement of credit losses for available-for-sale debt securities measured at fair value is not affected except that credit losses recognized are limited to the amount by which fair value is below amortized cost and the carrying value adjustment is recognized through a valuation allowance and not as a direct write-down. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and for most affected instruments must be adopted using a modified retrospective approach, with a cumulative effect adjustment recorded to beginning retained income. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption. Accounting for Hedging Activities In August 2017, the FASB issued amendments intended to better align hedge accounting with an organization’s risk management activities. The amendments expand hedge accounting for nonfinancial and financial risk components and revise the measurement methodologies to better align with an organization’s risk management activities. Separate presentation of hedge ineffectiveness is eliminated to provide greater transparency of the full impact of hedging by requiring presentation of the results of the hedged item and hedging instrument in a single financial statement line item. In addition, the amendments are designed to reduce complexity by simplifying the manner in which assessments of hedge effectiveness may be performed. The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. The presentation and disclosure guidance is effective on a prospective basis. The impact of adoption is not expected to be material to the Company’s results of operations or financial position. Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Deferred Benefit Plans In August 2018, the FASB issued amendments to modify certain disclosure requirements for defined benefit plans. Disclosure additions relate to the weighted-average interest crediting rates for cash balance plans and other plans with interest crediting rates and explanations for significant gains and losses related to changes in the benefit obligation for the period. Disclosures to be removed include those that identify amounts that are expected to be reclassified out of AOCI and into the income statement in the coming year and the anticipated impact of a one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rate on service and interest cost and on the accumulated benefit obligation. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The impacts of adoption are to the Company’s disclosures only. Accounting for Long-Duration Insurance Contracts In August 2018, the FASB issued guidance revising the accounting for certain long-duration insurance contracts. The new guidance changes the measurement of the Company’s reserves for traditional life, life-contingent immediate annuities and certain voluntary accident and health insurance products. Under the new guidance, measurement assumptions, including those for mortality, morbidity and policy terminations, will be required to be reviewed and updated at least annually. The effect of updating measurement assumptions other than the discount rate are required to be determined on a retrospective basis and reported in net income. In addition, cash flows under the new guidance are required to be discounted using an upper medium grade fixed income instrument yield that is updated through OCI at each reporting date. These changes will replace current GAAP, which utilizes assumptions set at policy issuance until such time as the assumptions result in reserves that are deficient when compared to reserves computed using current assumptions. Under current GAAP, premium deficiency reserves are recognized in the amount of the deficiency, if any, computed using current assumptions. The new guidance requires DAC and other capitalized balances currently amortized in proportion to premiums or gross profits to be amortized on a constant level basis over the expected term for all long-duration insurance contracts. DAC will not be subject to loss recognition testing but will be reduced when actual experience exceeds expected experience (i.e. as a result of unexpected contract terminations). The new guidance will no longer require adjustments to DAC and deferred sales inducement costs (“DSI”) related to unrealized gains and losses on investment securities supporting the related business. Market risk benefit product features are required to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in net income with the exception of changes in the fair value attributable to changes in the Company’s own credit risk, which are required to be recognized in OCI. Substantially all of the Company’s market risk benefits are reinsured and therefore these impacts are not expected to be material to the Company. The new guidance is to be included in the comparable financial statements issued in reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020, thereby requiring restatement of prior periods presented. Early adoption is permitted. The new guidance will be applied to affected contracts and DAC on the basis of existing carrying amounts at the earliest period presented or it may be applied retrospectively using actual historical experience as of contract inception. The new guidance for market risk benefits is required to be adopted retrospectively. The Company is evaluating the anticipated impacts of applying the new guidance to both retained income and AOCI. While the requirements of the new guidance represent a material change from existing GAAP, the underlying economics of the business and related cash flows are unchanged. The Company has not completed its evaluation of the specific impacts of adopting the new guidance, but anticipates the financial statement impact of migrating from existing GAAP to that required by the new guidance to be material, largely attributed to the impact of transitioning from an original investment-based discount rate to one based on an upper-medium grade fixed income investment yield and updates to mortality assumptions that had previously been locked in at issuance. The Company expects the most significant impacts will occur in the run-off annuity segment. The revised accounting for DAC will be applied prospectively using the new model and any DAC effects existing in AOCI as a result of applying existing GAAP at the date of adoption will be reversed.
Change in accounting principle	Change in accounting principle The Company changed its accounting principle for recognizing actuarial gains and losses and expected return on plan assets for its pension and other postretirement plans to a more preferable policy under U.S. GAAP. Under the new principle, remeasurement of projected benefit obligation and plan assets are immediately recognized in earnings and are referred to as pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations . Previously, actuarial gains and losses and differences between the expected and actual returns on plan assets were recognized as a component of AOCI, and were subject to amortization into earnings in future periods. This change has been applied on a retrospective basis . The Company’s policy is to remeasure its pension and postretirement plans on a quarterly basis. D ifferences in actual experience or changes in assumptions affect our pension and other postretirement obligations, plan assets and expenses. The primary factors contributing to pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses are 1) changes in the discount rate used to value pension and postretirement obligations as of the measurement date, 2) differences between the expected and the actual return on plan assets, 3) changes in demographic assumptions, including mortality, and 4) participant experience different from demographic assumptions. The Company also changed its policy for recognizing expected returns on plan assets by eliminating the permitted accounting practice allowing the five-year smoothing of equity returns and moving to an unadjusted fair value method. The Company believes that immediately recognizing remeasurement of projected benefit obligation and plan assets in earnings is preferable as it provides greater transparency of the Company’s economic obligations in accounting results and better aligns with fair value accounting principles by recognizing the effects of economic and interest rate changes on pension and other postretirement plan assets and liabilities in the year in which the gains and losses are incurred. These changes have been applied on a retrospective basis and as of January 1, 2016 resulted in a cumulative effect decrease to retained income of $1.60 billion , with a corresponding offset to AOCI and had an insignificant impact on total shareholders’ equity. Pension and other postretirement service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets and amortization of prior service credits are allocated to the Company’s reportable segments. The pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses are now reported in the Corporate and Other segment. The impacts of the adjustments on the financial statements and reportable segments

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill by reporting unit	The Company’s goodwill reporting units are equivalent to its reportable segments, Allstate Protection, Service Businesses, Allstate Life and Allstate Benefits to which goodwill has been assigned. Goodwill by reporting unit As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Allstate Protection $ 810 $ 810 Service Businesses 1,449 1,100 Allstate Life 175 175 Allstate Benefits 96 96 Total $ 2,530 $ 2,181
Schedule of indefinite-lived intangible assets	Intangible assets by type As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Customers relationships $ 530 $ 396 Trade names and licenses 143 143 Technology and other 40 17 Total $ 713 $ 556
Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets	Intangible assets by type As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Customers relationships $ 530 $ 396 Trade names and licenses 143 143 Technology and other 40 17 Total $ 713 $ 556
Computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share	Computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions, except per share data) 2018 2017 2016 Numerator: Net income $ 2,160 $ 3,554 $ 1,808 Less: Preferred stock dividends 148 116 116 Net income applicable to common shareholders (1) $ 2,012 $ 3,438 $ 1,692 Denominator: Weighted average common shares outstanding 347.8 362.0 372.8 Effect of dilutive potential common shares: Stock options 3.6 4.3 3.2 Restricted stock units (non-participating) and performance stock awards 1.8 1.5 1.3 Weighted average common and dilutive potential common shares outstanding 353.2 367.8 377.3 Earnings per common share – Basic $ 5.78 $ 9.50 $ 4.54 Earnings per common share – Diluted $ 5.70 $ 9.35 $ 4.48 (1) Net income applicable to common shareholders is net income less preferred stock dividends.
Schedule of changes in accounting principles	The impacts of the adjustments on the financial statements and reportable segments are summarized in the following tables. Consolidated Statements of Operations Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense $ 22,839 $ (61 ) $ 22,778 Operating costs and expenses 5,869 (275 ) 5,594 Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — 468 468 Restructuring and related charges 83 (16 ) 67 Total costs and expenses 37,077 116 37,193 Income from operations before income tax expense 2,744 (116 ) 2,628 Income tax expense 492 (24 ) 468 Net income 2,252 (92 ) 2,160 Net income applicable to common shareholders $ 2,104 $ (92 ) $ 2,012 Earnings per common share: Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Basic $ 6.05 $ (0.27 ) $ 5.78 Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Diluted $ 5.96 $ (0.26 ) $ 5.70 Consolidated Statements of Operations Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2017 Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense $ 21,929 $ (82 ) $ 21,847 Operating costs and expenses 5,442 (246 ) 5,196 Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — (217 ) (217 ) Restructuring and related charges 109 (13 ) 96 Total costs and expenses 35,436 (558 ) 34,878 Income from operations before income tax expense 3,991 558 4,549 Income tax expense 802 193 995 Net income 3,189 365 3,554 Net income applicable to common shareholders $ 3,073 $ 365 $ 3,438 Earnings per common share: Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Basic $ 8.49 $ 1.01 $ 9.50 Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Diluted $ 8.36 $ 0.99 $ 9.35 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense $ 22,221 $ (61 ) $ 22,160 Operating costs and expenses 4,939 (93 ) 4,846 Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — 270 270 Restructuring and related charges 30 (12 ) 18 Total costs and expenses 34,650 104 34,754 Income from operations before income tax expense 2,754 (104 ) 2,650 Income tax expense 877 (35 ) 842 Net income 1,877 (69 ) 1,808 Net income applicable to common shareholders $ 1,761 $ (69 ) $ 1,692 Earnings per common share: Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Basic $ 4.72 $ (0.18 ) $ 4.54 Net income applicable to common shareholders per common share - Diluted $ 4.67 $ (0.19 ) $ 4.48 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Net income $ 2,252 $ (92 ) $ 2,160 Other comprehensive loss, after-tax Changes in: Unrealized net capital gains and losses (754 ) — (754 ) Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (55 ) 7 (48 ) Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) (144 ) 85 (59 ) Other comprehensive loss, after-tax (953 ) 92 (861 ) Comprehensive income $ 1,299 $ — $ 1,299 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Net income $ 3,189 $ 365 $ 3,554 Other comprehensive income, after-tax Changes in: Unrealized net capital gains and losses 319 — 319 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments 47 (2 ) 45 Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) 307 (359 ) (52 ) Other comprehensive income, after-tax 673 (361 ) 312 Comprehensive income $ 3,862 $ 4 $ 3,866 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Net income $ 1,877 $ (69 ) $ 1,808 Other comprehensive income, after-tax Changes in: Unrealized net capital gains and losses 433 — 433 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments 10 (1 ) 9 Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) (104 ) 71 (33 ) Other comprehensive income, after-tax 339 70 409 Comprehensive income $ 2,216 $ 1 $ 2,217 (1) Financial statement line item has been updated to “ Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit ”. Consolidated Statements of Financial Position Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions) December 31, 2018 Retained income $ 45,708 $ (1,675 ) $ 44,033 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (64 ) 15 (49 ) Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1,491 ) 1,660 169 Total AOCI $ (1,557 ) $ 1,675 $ 118 December 31, 2017 Retained income $ 43,162 $ (1,583 ) $ 41,579 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (9 ) 8 (1 ) Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1,347 ) 1,575 228 Total AOCI $ 306 $ 1,583 $ 1,889 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Retained income Balance, beginning of year $ 43,162 $ (1,583 ) $ 41,579 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 1,088 — 1,088 Net income 2,252 (92 ) 2,160 Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.84) (646 ) — (646 ) Dividends on preferred stock (148 ) — (148 ) Balance, end of year 45,708 (1,675 ) 44,033 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Balance, beginning of year 306 1,583 1,889 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (910 ) — (910 ) Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses (754 ) — (754 ) Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (55 ) 7 (48 ) Change in unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) (144 ) 85 (59 ) Balance, end of year $ (1,557 ) $ 1,675 $ 118 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Retained income Balance, beginning of year $ 40,678 $ (1,669 ) $ 39,009 Net income 3,189 365 3,554 Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.48) (540 ) — (540 ) Dividends on preferred stock (116 ) — (116 ) Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle (49 ) (279 ) (328 ) Balance, end of year 43,162 (1,583 ) 41,579 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Balance, beginning of year (416 ) 1,665 1,249 Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses 319 — 319 Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments 47 (2 ) 45 Change in unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) 307 (359 ) (52 ) Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle 49 279 328 Balance, end of year $ 306 $ 1,583 $ 1,889 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Retained income Balance, beginning of year $ 39,413 $ (1,600 ) $ 37,813 Net income 1,877 (69 ) 1,808 Dividends on common stock (declared per share of $1.32) (496 ) — (496 ) Dividends on preferred stock (116 ) — (116 ) Balance, end of year 40,678 (1,669 ) 39,009 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Balance, beginning of year (755 ) 1,595 840 Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses 433 — 433 Change in unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments 10 (1 ) 9 Change in unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost (1) (104 ) 71 (33 ) Balance, end of year $ (416 ) $ 1,665 $ 1,249 Total shareholders’ equity $ 20,573 $ (4 ) $ 20,569 (1) Financial statement line item has been updated to “ Change in unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit ”. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Previously reported Impact of change As adjusted ($ in millions) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 2,252 $ (92 ) $ 2,160 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — 468 468 Income taxes (356 ) (24 ) (380 ) Other operating assets and liabilities 1,207 (352 ) 855 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 5,175 $ — $ 5,175 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 3,189 $ 365 $ 3,554 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — (217 ) (217 ) Income taxes (245 ) 193 (52 ) Other operating assets and liabilities 328 (341 ) (13 ) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 4,314 $ — $ 4,314 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 1,877 $ (69 ) $ 1,808 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses — 270 270 Income taxes 417 (36 ) 381 Other operating assets and liabilities (16 ) (165 ) (181 ) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 3,993 $ — $ 3,993 Reportable segments financial performance Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders Underwriting income or Adjusted net income (loss) (2) For the years ended December 31, Previously reported ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability (1) $ 2,341 $ 2,587 $ 1,661 $ 2,097 $ 2,012 $ 1,220 Service Businesses (85 ) 15 3 2 (59 ) 3 Allstate Life 254 577 219 289 253 247 Allstate Benefits 113 146 96 119 95 100 Allstate Annuities 75 418 76 130 204 101 Corporate and Other (594 ) (670 ) (294 ) (542 ) (399 ) (292 ) Consolidated $ 2,104 $ 3,073 $ 1,761 Impact of change 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability $ 124 $ 226 $ 97 $ 156 $ 193 $ 150 Service Businesses 6 8 2 6 5 2 Allstate Life 6 12 4 6 6 4 Allstate Benefits 5 8 3 5 5 3 Allstate Annuities 1 1 1 1 1 1 Corporate and Other (234 ) 110 (176 ) 136 79 (1 ) Consolidated $ (92 ) $ 365 $ (69 ) As adjusted 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability $ 2,465 $ 2,813 $ 1,758 $ 2,253 $ 2,205 $ 1,370 Service Businesses (79 ) 23 5 8 (54 ) 5 Allstate Life 260 589 223 295 259 251 Allstate Benefits 118 154 99 124 100 103 Allstate Annuities 76 419 77 131 205 102 Corporate and Other (828 ) (560 ) (470 ) (406 ) (320 ) (293 ) Consolidated $ 2,012 $ 3,438 $ 1,692 (1) Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments comprise Property-Liability. (2) The measure of segment profit or loss used in evaluating performance is underwriting income for the Allstate Protection and Discontinued Lines and Coverages segments while all other segments use adjusted net income (loss).

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Future amortization expense	Amortization expense of intangible assets for the next five years and thereafter ($ in millions) InfoArmor SquareTrade 2019 $ 50 $ 72 2020 44 62 2021 38 52 2022 31 42 2023 25 34 Thereafter 56 50 Total amortization $ 244 $ 312

Reporting Segments (Tables)

Reporting Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of business segments revenue disclosures	Reportable segments revenue information For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability Insurance premiums Auto $ 22,970 $ 21,878 $ 21,264 Homeowners 7,517 7,310 7,257 Other personal lines 1,808 1,750 1,700 Commercial lines 655 495 506 Allstate Protection 32,950 31,433 30,727 Discontinued Lines and Coverages — — — Total Property-Liability insurance premiums 32,950 31,433 30,727 Other revenue 738 703 688 Net investment income 1,464 1,478 1,253 Realized capital gains and losses (639 ) 401 (6 ) Total Property-Liability 34,513 34,015 32,662 Service Businesses Consumer product protection plans 503 295 — Roadside assistance 263 268 310 Finance and insurance products 332 304 270 Intersegment premiums and service fees (1) 122 110 105 Other revenue 82 66 64 Net investment income 27 16 13 Realized capital gains and losses (11 ) — — Total Service Businesses 1,318 1,059 762 Allstate Life Traditional life insurance premiums 600 568 533 Accident and health insurance premiums 2 2 2 Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges 713 710 715 Other revenue 119 114 113 Net investment income 505 489 482 Realized capital gains and losses (14 ) 5 (38 ) Total Allstate Life 1,925 1,888 1,807 Allstate Benefits Traditional life insurance premiums 44 42 40 Accident and health insurance premiums 980 928 857 Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges 111 114 114 Net investment income 77 72 71 Realized capital gains and losses (9 ) 1 (5 ) Total Allstate Benefits 1,203 1,157 1,077 Allstate Annuities Fixed annuities contract charges 15 14 14 Net investment income 1,096 1,305 1,181 Realized capital gains and losses (166 ) 44 (38 ) Total Allstate Annuities 945 1,363 1,157 Corporate and Other Net investment income 71 41 42 Realized capital gains and losses (38 ) (6 ) (3 ) Total Corporate and Other 33 35 39 Intersegment eliminations (1) (122 ) (110 ) (105 ) Consolidated revenues $ 39,815 $ 39,407 $ 37,399 (1) Intersegment insurance premiums and service fees are primarily related to Arity and Allstate Roadside Services and are eliminated in the consolidated financial statements.
Schedule of business segments net income disclosures	Reportable segments financial performance For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property-Liability Allstate Protection $ 2,343 $ 2,304 $ 1,477 Discontinued Lines and Coverages (90 ) (99 ) (107 ) Total underwriting income 2,253 2,205 1,370 Net investment income 1,464 1,478 1,253 Income tax expense on operations (747 ) (1,187 ) (865 ) Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (500 ) 272 — Gain on disposition of operations, after-tax — 9 — Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (5 ) 36 — Property-Liability net income applicable to common shareholders 2,465 2,813 1,758 Service Businesses Adjusted net income (loss) 8 (54 ) 5 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (9 ) — — Amortization of purchased intangible assets, after-tax (74 ) (60 ) — Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (4 ) 137 — Service Businesses net (loss) income applicable to common shareholders (79 ) 23 5 Allstate Life Adjusted net income 295 259 251 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (11 ) 2 (24 ) DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (8 ) (10 ) (4 ) Tax Legislation (expense) benefit (16 ) 338 — Allstate Life net income applicable to common shareholders 260 589 223 Allstate Benefits Adjusted net income 124 100 103 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (7 ) — (4 ) DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses, after-tax 1 — — Tax Legislation benefit — 54 — Allstate Benefits net income applicable to common shareholders 118 154 99 Allstate Annuities Adjusted net income 131 205 102 Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (131 ) 28 (26 ) Valuation changes on embedded derivatives not hedged, after-tax 3 — (2 ) Gain on disposition of operations, after-tax 4 4 3 Tax Legislation benefit 69 182 — Allstate Annuities net income applicable to common shareholders 76 419 77 Corporate and Other Adjusted net loss (406 ) (320 ) (293 ) Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax (30 ) (4 ) (2 ) Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses, after-tax (370 ) 141 (175 ) Goodwill impairment — (125 ) — Business combination expenses, after-tax (7 ) (14 ) — Tax Legislation expense (15 ) (238 ) — Corporate and Other net loss applicable to common shareholders (828 ) (560 ) (470 ) Consolidated net income applicable to common shareholders $ 2,012 $ 3,438 $ 1,692 Additional significant financial performance data For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Amortization of DAC Property-Liability $ 4,475 $ 4,205 $ 4,053 Service Businesses 463 296 214 Allstate Life 132 134 131 Allstate Benefits 145 142 145 Allstate Annuities 7 7 7 Consolidated $ 5,222 $ 4,784 $ 4,550 Income tax expense (benefit) Property-Liability $ 613 $ 1,285 $ 859 Service Businesses (19 ) (194 ) 2 Allstate Life 75 (226 ) 94 Allstate Benefits 32 1 52 Allstate Annuities (66 ) (58 ) 36 Corporate and Other (167 ) 187 (201 ) Consolidated $ 468 $ 995 $ 842
Additional significant financial performance data	Additional significant financial performance data For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Amortization of DAC Property-Liability $ 4,475 $ 4,205 $ 4,053 Service Businesses 463 296 214 Allstate Life 132 134 131 Allstate Benefits 145 142 145 Allstate Annuities 7 7 7 Consolidated $ 5,222 $ 4,784 $ 4,550 Income tax expense (benefit) Property-Liability $ 613 $ 1,285 $ 859 Service Businesses (19 ) (194 ) 2 Allstate Life 75 (226 ) 94 Allstate Benefits 32 1 52 Allstate Annuities (66 ) (58 ) 36 Corporate and Other (167 ) 187 (201 ) Consolidated $ 468 $ 995 $ 842 Impacts of Tax Legislation Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation Tax Legislation expense (benefit) Income tax expense (benefit) after Tax Legislation For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Income tax expense (benefit) Property-Liability $ 608 $ 1,321 $ 5 $ (36 ) $ 613 $ 1,285 Service Businesses (23 ) (57 ) 4 (137 ) (19 ) (194 ) Allstate Life 59 112 16 (338 ) 75 (226 ) Allstate Benefits 32 55 — (54 ) 32 1 Allstate Annuities 3 124 (69 ) (182 ) (66 ) (58 ) Corporate and Other (182 ) (51 ) 15 238 (167 ) 187 Consolidated $ 497 $ 1,504 $ (29 ) $ (509 ) $ 468 $ 995
Summarized data for total assets and investments	Reportable segment total assets and investments (1) As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Assets Property-Liability $ 61,947 $ 60,197 Service Businesses 5,473 4,531 Allstate Life 13,613 14,107 Allstate Benefits 2,822 2,766 Allstate Annuities 26,798 28,836 Corporate and Other 1,596 1,985 Consolidated $ 112,249 $ 112,422 ​ ​ Investments Property-Liability $ 43,634 $ 43,183 Service Businesses 1,203 954 Allstate Life 10,809 11,210 Allstate Benefits 1,809 1,776 Allstate Annuities 22,336 23,722 Corporate and Other 1,469 1,958 Consolidated $ 81,260 $ 82,803 (1) The balances reflect the elimination of related party investments between segments.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Investments [Abstract]
Schedule for fixed income securities at amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and fair value	Amortized cost, gross unrealized gains (losses) and fair value for fixed income securities Amortized cost Gross unrealized Fair value ($ in millions) Gains Losses December 31, 2018 U.S. government and agencies $ 5,386 $ 137 $ (6 ) $ 5,517 Municipal 8,963 249 (43 ) 9,169 Corporate 40,536 490 (890 ) 40,136 Foreign government 739 13 (5 ) 747 ABS 1,049 6 (10 ) 1,045 RMBS 377 89 (2 ) 464 CMBS 63 8 (1 ) 70 Redeemable preferred stock 21 1 — 22 Total fixed income securities $ 57,134 $ 993 $ (957 ) $ 57,170 December 31, 2017 U.S. government and agencies $ 3,580 $ 56 $ (20 ) $ 3,616 Municipal 8,053 311 (36 ) 8,328 Corporate 42,996 1,234 (204 ) 44,026 Foreign government 1,005 27 (11 ) 1,021 ABS 1,266 13 (7 ) 1,272 RMBS 480 101 (3 ) 578 CMBS 124 6 (2 ) 128 Redeemable preferred stock 21 2 — 23 Total fixed income securities $ 57,525 $ 1,750 $ (283 ) $ 58,992
Schedule for fixed income securities based on contractual maturities	Scheduled maturities for fixed income securities As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Amortized cost Fair value Due in one year or less $ 3,344 $ 3,348 Due after one year through five years 27,862 27,742 Due after five years through ten years 17,033 16,773 Due after ten years 7,406 7,728 55,645 55,591 ABS, RMBS and CMBS 1,489 1,579 Total $ 57,134 $ 57,170
Schedule of net investment income	Net investment income For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ 2,077 $ 2,078 $ 2,060 Equity securities 170 174 137 Mortgage loans 217 206 217 Limited partnership interests (1)(2) 705 889 561 Short-term investments 73 30 16 Other 272 236 222 Investment income, before expense 3,514 3,613 3,213 Investment expense (274 ) (212 ) (171 ) Net investment income $ 3,240 $ 3,401 $ 3,042 (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, limited partnerships previously reported using the cost method are now reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net investment income. (2) Includes net investment income of $451 million for EMA limited partnership interests and $254 million for limited partnership interests carried at fair value for 2018 .
Schedule of realized capital gains and losses by asset type	Realized capital gains (losses) by asset type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ (237 ) $ 94 $ (91 ) Equity securities (594 ) 255 23 Mortgage loans 2 1 — Limited partnership interests (101 ) 132 (21 ) Derivatives 46 (46 ) 3 Other 7 9 (4 ) Realized capital gains and losses $ (877 ) $ 445 $ (90 )
Schedule of realized capital gains and losses by transaction type	Realized capital gains (losses) by transaction type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Impairment write-downs (1) $ (14 ) $ (102 ) $ (234 ) Change in intent write-downs (1) — (48 ) (69 ) Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings (14 ) (150 ) (303 ) Sales (1) (215 ) 641 213 Valuation of equity investments (1) (2) (691 ) — — Valuation and settlements of derivative instruments 43 (46 ) — Realized capital gains and losses $ (877 ) $ 445 $ (90 ) (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, equity securities are reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in valuation of equity investments and are no longer included in impairment write-downs, change in intent write-downs and sales. (2) Includes valuation of equity securities and certain limited partnership interests where the underlying assets are predominately public equity securities.
Realized gain (loss) on investments	Net appreciation (decline) recognized in net income For the year ended ($ in millions) December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ (261 ) Limited partnership interests carried at fair value 249 Total $ (12 )
Schedule of other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type	OTTI losses by asset type For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Gross Included in OCI Net Gross Included in OCI Net Gross Included in OCI Net Fixed income securities: Municipal $ — $ — $ — $ (1 ) $ (3 ) $ (4 ) $ — $ — $ — Corporate (4 ) 2 (2 ) (9 ) 3 (6 ) (33 ) 9 (24 ) ABS (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (6 ) — (6 ) RMBS (1 ) — (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) (5 ) — (1 ) (1 ) CMBS (3 ) (1 ) (4 ) (9 ) 1 (8 ) (15 ) 2 (13 ) Total fixed income securities (9 ) (1 ) (10 ) (22 ) (4 ) (26 ) (54 ) 10 (44 ) Equity securities (1) — — — (86 ) — (86 ) (194 ) — (194 ) Mortgage loans — — — (1 ) — (1 ) — — — Limited partnership interests (1) (3 ) — (3 ) (32 ) — (32 ) (56 ) — (56 ) Other (1 ) — (1 ) (5 ) — (5 ) (9 ) — (9 ) OTTI losses $ (13 ) $ (1 ) $ (14 ) $ (146 ) $ (4 ) $ (150 ) $ (313 ) $ 10 $ (303 ) (1) Due to the adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard, equity securities and limited partnerships previously reported using the cost method are now reported at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income and are no longer included in the table above.
Schedule of other-than-temporary impairment losses on fixed income securities included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	OTTI losses included in AOCI at the time of impairment for fixed income securities which were not included in earnings ($ in millions) December 31, December 31, Municipal $ (5 ) $ (5 ) Corporate (2 ) — ABS (10 ) (15 ) RMBS (67 ) (77 ) CMBS (2 ) (4 ) Total $ (86 ) $ (101 )
Schedule of credit losses on fixed income securities recognized in earnings	Rollforward of the cumulative credit losses recognized in earnings for fixed income securities held As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ (226 ) $ (318 ) $ (392 ) Additional credit loss for securities previously other-than-temporarily impaired (7 ) (18 ) (21 ) Additional credit loss for securities not previously other-than-temporarily impaired (3 ) (8 ) (23 ) Reduction in credit loss for securities disposed or collected 30 116 117 Change in credit loss due to accretion of increase in cash flows 2 2 1 Ending balance $ (204 ) $ (226 ) $ (318 )
Schedule of unrealized net capital gains and losses	Unrealized net capital gains and losses included in AOCI ($ in millions) Fair value Gross unrealized Unrealized net gains (losses) December 31, 2018 Gains Losses Fixed income securities $ 57,170 $ 993 $ (957 ) $ 36 Short-term investments 3,027 — — — Derivative instruments — — (3 ) (3 ) EMA limited partnerships (1) — Unrealized net capital gains and losses, pre-tax 33 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves (2) — DAC and DSI (3) (33 ) Amounts recognized (33 ) Deferred income taxes (2 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ (2 ) (1) Unrealized net capital gains and losses for limited partnership interests represent the Company’s share of EMA limited partnerships’ OCI. Fair value and gross unrealized gains and losses are not applicable. (2) The insurance reserves adjustment represents the amount by which the reserve balance would increase if the net unrealized gains in the applicable product portfolios were realized and reinvested at lower interest rates, resulting in a premium deficiency. This adjustment primarily relates to structured settlement annuities with life contingencies (a type of immediate fixed annuities). (3) The DAC and DSI adjustment balance represents the amount by which the amortization of DAC and DSI would increase or decrease if the unrealized gains or losses in the respective product portfolios were realized. Unrealized net capital gains and losses included in AOCI ($ in millions) Fair value Gross unrealized Unrealized net gains (losses) December 31, 2017 Gains Losses Fixed income securities $ 58,992 $ 1,750 $ (283 ) $ 1,467 Equity securities 6,621 1,172 (12 ) 1,160 Short-term investments 1,944 — — — Derivative instruments (1) 2 2 (3 ) (1 ) EMA limited partnerships 1 Unrealized net capital gains and losses, pre-tax 2,627 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves (315 ) DAC and DSI (196 ) Amounts recognized (511 ) Deferred income taxes (454 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ 1,662 (1) Included in the fair value of derivative instruments is $2 million classified as liabilities. Change in unrealized net capital gains (losses) For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ (1,431 ) $ 204 $ 516 Equity securities (1) — 651 233 Derivative instruments (2 ) (3 ) (4 ) EMA limited partnerships (1 ) 5 — Total (1,434 ) 857 745 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves 315 (315 ) — DAC and DSI 163 (50 ) (79 ) Amounts recognized 478 (365 ) (79 ) Deferred income taxes 202 117 (233 ) (Decrease) increase in unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ (754 ) $ 609 $ 433
Schedule of change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	Change in unrealized net capital gains (losses) For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Fixed income securities $ (1,431 ) $ 204 $ 516 Equity securities (1) — 651 233 Derivative instruments (2 ) (3 ) (4 ) EMA limited partnerships (1 ) 5 — Total (1,434 ) 857 745 Amounts recognized for: Insurance reserves 315 (315 ) — DAC and DSI 163 (50 ) (79 ) Amounts recognized 478 (365 ) (79 ) Deferred income taxes 202 117 (233 ) (Decrease) increase in unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax $ (754 ) $ 609 $ 433 (1) Upon adoption of the recognition and measurement accounting standard on January 1, 2018, $1.16 billion of pre-tax unrealized net capital gains for equity securities were reclassified from AOCI to retained income. See Note 2 for further details.
Schedule of gross unrealized losses and fair value of available for sale securities by length of time	Gross unrealized losses and fair value by type and length of time held in a continuous unrealized loss position ($ in millions) Less than 12 months 12 months or more Number of issues Fair value Unrealized losses Number of issues Fair value Unrealized losses Total unrealized losses December 31, 2018 Fixed income securities U.S. government and agencies 11 $ 55 $ — 38 $ 364 $ (6 ) $ (6 ) Municipal 943 1,633 (10 ) 1,147 1,554 (33 ) (43 ) Corporate 1,735 19,243 (543 ) 645 8,374 (347 ) (890 ) Foreign government 7 20 (1 ) 27 412 (4 ) (5 ) ABS 64 454 (5 ) 28 161 (5 ) (10 ) RMBS 166 30 — 195 52 (2 ) (2 ) CMBS 3 7 — 2 — (1 ) (1 ) Redeemable preferred stock 1 — — — — — — Total fixed income securities 2,930 $ 21,442 $ (559 ) 2,082 $ 10,917 $ (398 ) $ (957 ) Investment grade fixed income securities 2,348 $ 17,485 $ (331 ) 2,021 $ 10,626 $ (360 ) $ (691 ) Below investment grade fixed income securities 582 3,957 (228 ) 61 291 (38 ) (266 ) Total fixed income securities 2,930 $ 21,442 $ (559 ) 2,082 $ 10,917 $ (398 ) $ (957 ) December 31, 2017 Fixed income securities U.S. government and agencies 66 $ 2,829 $ (18 ) 18 $ 182 $ (2 ) $ (20 ) Municipal 1,756 3,143 (24 ) 165 349 (12 ) (36 ) Corporate 781 11,616 (102 ) 208 3,289 (102 ) (204 ) Foreign government 45 580 (10 ) 5 44 (1 ) (11 ) ABS 57 476 (3 ) 9 34 (4 ) (7 ) RMBS 118 35 (1 ) 181 50 (2 ) (3 ) CMBS 2 1 — 6 23 (2 ) (2 ) Redeemable preferred stock 1 — — — — — — Total fixed income securities 2,826 18,680 (158 ) 592 3,971 (125 ) (283 ) Equity securities 127 369 (12 ) 2 — — (12 ) Total fixed income and equity securities 2,953 $ 19,049 $ (170 ) 594 $ 3,971 $ (125 ) $ (295 ) Investment grade fixed income securities 2,706 $ 17,668 $ (134 ) 535 $ 3,751 $ (98 ) $ (232 ) Below investment grade fixed income securities 120 1,012 (24 ) 57 220 (27 ) (51 ) Total fixed income securities 2,826 $ 18,680 $ (158 ) 592 $ 3,971 $ (125 ) $ (283 )
Principal geographic distribution of commercial real estate represented in the mortgage portfolio	Principal geographic distribution of commercial real estate exceeding 5% of the mortgage loans portfolio As of December 31, (% of mortgage loan portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 California 16.4 % 19.9 % Texas 14.9 13.0 Illinois 7.8 7.1 New Jersey 6.8 7.6 Florida 6.1 6.4 North Carolina 5.1 4.0
Types of property collateralizing the mortgage loans	Types of properties collateralizing the mortgage loan portfolio As of December 31, (% of mortgage loan portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 Apartment complex 34.4 % 30.9 % Office buildings 24.5 23.8 Warehouse 15.8 15.7 Retail 14.4 18.0 Other 10.9 11.6 Total 100.0 % 100.0 %
Contractual maturities of the commercial mortgage loan portfolio	Contractual maturities of the mortgage loan portfolio As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Number of loans Carrying value Percent 2019 8 $ 171 3.7 % 2020 13 119 2.6 2021 41 566 12.1 2022 32 553 11.8 Thereafter 189 3,261 69.8 Total 283 $ 4,670 100.0 %
Carrying value of non-impaired fixed and variable rate mortgage loans by debt service coverage ratio distribution	Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Debt Service Coverage Ratio Distribution Fixed rate mortgage loans Variable rate mortgage loans Total Fixed rate mortgage loans Variable rate mortgage loans Total Below 1.0 $ 6 $ 31 $ 37 $ 3 $ — $ 3 1.0 - 1.25 273 — 273 345 — 345 1.26 - 1.50 1,192 — 1,192 1,141 30 1,171 Above 1.50 3,063 101 3,164 2,949 62 3,011 Total non-impaired mortgage loans $ 4,534 $ 132 $ 4,666 $ 4,438 $ 92 $ 4,530
Net carrying value of impaired mortgage loans	Net carrying value of impaired mortgage loans As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Impaired mortgage loans with a valuation allowance $ 4 $ 4 Impaired mortgage loans without a valuation allowance — — Total impaired mortgage loans $ 4 $ 4 Valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans $ 3 $ 3
Valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans	Rollforward of the valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 3 $ 3 $ 3 Net increase in valuation allowance — 1 — Charge offs — (1 ) — Ending balance $ 3 $ 3 $ 3
Principal geographic distribution of municipal bond	Principal geographic distribution of municipal bond issuers exceeding 5% of the portfolio As of December 31, (% of municipal bond portfolio carrying value) 2018 2017 Texas 12.3 % 9.6 % California 7.4 7.0 Washington 6.2 5.4 New York 5.6 6.9 Florida 4.9 6.5
Schedule of other investments, by type	Other investments by asset type ($ in millions) December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 Bank loans $ 1,350 $ 1,702 Policy loans 891 905 Real estate 791 632 Agent loans 620 538 Derivatives and other 200 195 Total $ 3,852 $ 3,972

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_2

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Counterparty and cash collateral netting Total Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 5,085 $ 432 $ — $ 5,517 Municipal — 9,099 70 9,169 Corporate - public — 29,200 70 29,270 Corporate - privately placed — 10,776 90 10,866 Foreign government — 747 — 747 ABS - CDO — 263 6 269 ABS - consumer and other — 713 63 776 RMBS — 464 — 464 CMBS — 44 26 70 Redeemable preferred stock — 22 — 22 Total fixed income securities 5,085 51,760 325 57,170 Equity securities 4,364 331 341 5,036 Short-term investments 1,338 1,659 30 3,027 Other investments: Free-standing derivatives — 139 1 (23 ) 117 Separate account assets 2,805 — — 2,805 Other assets 2 — — 2 Total recurring basis assets $ 13,594 $ 53,889 $ 697 $ (23 ) $ 68,157 % of total assets at fair value 19.9 % 79.1 % 1.0 % — % 100.0 % Investments reported at NAV 1,779 Total $ 69,936 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (224 ) $ (224 ) Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives (1 ) (62 ) — $ 6 (57 ) Total recurring basis liabilities $ (1 ) $ (62 ) $ (224 ) $ 6 $ (281 ) % of total liabilities at fair value 0.3 % 22.1 % 79.7 % (2.1 )% 100.0 % Assets and liabilities measured at fair value As of December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Counterparty and cash collateral netting Total Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 3,079 $ 537 $ — $ 3,616 Municipal — 8,227 101 8,328 Corporate - public — 31,963 108 32,071 Corporate - privately placed — 11,731 224 11,955 Foreign government — 1,021 — 1,021 ABS - CDO — 480 99 579 ABS - consumer and other — 645 48 693 RMBS — 578 — 578 CMBS — 102 26 128 Redeemable preferred stock — 23 — 23 Total fixed income securities 3,079 55,307 606 58,992 Equity securities 6,032 379 210 6,621 Short-term investments 264 1,660 20 1,944 Other investments: Free-standing derivatives — 132 1 (6 ) 127 Separate account assets 3,444 — — 3,444 Total recurring basis assets 12,819 57,478 837 (6 ) 71,128 Non-recurring basis (1) — — 3 3 Total assets at fair value $ 12,819 $ 57,478 $ 840 $ (6 ) $ 71,131 % of total assets at fair value 18.0 % 80.8 % 1.2 % — % 100.0 % Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (286 ) $ (286 ) Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives (1 ) (83 ) — $ 14 (70 ) Total recurring basis liabilities $ (1 ) $ (83 ) $ (286 ) $ 14 $ (356 ) % of total liabilities at fair value 0.3 % 23.3 % 80.3 % (3.9 )% 100.0 % (1) Includes $3 million of limited partnership interests written-down to fair value in connection with recognizing OTTI losses.
Summary of quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs	Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in Level 3 fair value measurements ($ in millions) Fair value Valuation technique Unobservable input Range Weighted average December 31, 2018 Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts – Equity-indexed and forward starting options $ (185 ) Stochastic cash flow model Projected option cost 1.0 - 2.2% 1.74% December 31, 2017 Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts – Equity-indexed and forward starting options $ (252 ) Stochastic cash flow model Projected option cost 1.0 - 2.2% 1.74%
Schedule of the rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value on a recurring basis	Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2018 Balance as of December 31, 2017 Total gains (losses) included in: Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 ($ in millions) Net income (1) OCI Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ 101 $ 1 $ (2 ) $ — $ (26 ) Corporate - public 108 — (3 ) 17 (21 ) Corporate - privately placed 224 (1 ) (3 ) 20 (119 ) ABS - CDO 99 — 1 20 (109 ) ABS - consumer and other 48 — 1 22 (50 ) CMBS 26 — — — — Total fixed income securities 606 — (6 ) 79 (325 ) Equity securities 210 37 — — — Short-term investments 20 — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net 1 — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 837 $ 37 $ (6 ) $ 79 $ (325 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (286 ) $ 58 $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (286 ) $ 58 $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2018 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ 10 $ (8 ) $ — $ (6 ) $ 70 Corporate - public 10 (38 ) — (3 ) 70 Corporate - privately placed 22 (5 ) — (48 ) 90 ABS - CDO — — — (5 ) 6 ABS - consumer and other 160 (97 ) — (21 ) 63 CMBS 1 — — (1 ) 26 Total fixed income securities 203 (148 ) — (84 ) 325 Equity securities 109 (15 ) — — 341 Short-term investments 55 (45 ) — — 30 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — — 1 (2 ) Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 367 $ (208 ) $ — $ (84 ) $ 697 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (224 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (224 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $95 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $37 million in realized capital gains and losses, $63 million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $(5) million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets. Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2017 Balance as of December 31, 2016 Total gains (losses) included in: Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 ($ in millions) Net income (1) OCI Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal 125 (1 ) 7 — (6 ) Corporate - public 78 — — 4 (30 ) Corporate - privately placed 263 8 (2 ) 30 (49 ) ABS - CDO 27 — 6 60 (190 ) ABS - consumer and other 42 — — — (90 ) RMBS 1 — — — — CMBS 22 — — — — Total fixed income securities 558 7 11 94 (365 ) Equity securities 163 13 4 — (4 ) Short-term investments 15 — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net (2 ) 3 — — — Other assets 1 (1 ) — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 735 $ 22 $ 15 $ 94 $ (369 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (290 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (290 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2017 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal 8 (29 ) — (3 ) 101 Corporate - public 60 — — (4 ) 108 Corporate - privately placed 44 (30 ) — (40 ) 224 ABS - CDO 219 — — (23 ) 99 ABS - consumer and other 103 — — (7 ) 48 RMBS — — — (1 ) — CMBS 6 — — (2 ) 26 Total fixed income securities 440 (59 ) — (80 ) 606 Equity securities 48 (14 ) — — 210 Short-term investments 45 (40 ) — — 20 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — — 1 (2) Other assets — — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 533 $ (113 ) $ — $ (80 ) $ 837 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (286 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (2 ) $ 6 $ (286 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $22 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $4 million in realized capital gains and losses, $19 million in net investment income, $(10) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets. Rollforward of Level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value during the year ended December 31, 2016 Total gains (losses) included in: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2015 Net income (1) OCI Transfers into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ 5 $ — $ — $ — $ (4 ) Municipal 161 12 (10 ) 6 (23 ) Corporate - public 46 — — 41 (43 ) Corporate - privately placed 502 15 18 16 (398 ) ABS - CDO 61 1 6 10 (43 ) ABS - consumer and other 50 — (3 ) 3 (35 ) RMBS 1 1 — — — CMBS 20 — — — (1 ) Total fixed income securities 846 29 11 76 (547 ) Equity securities 133 (32 ) 12 — (12 ) Short-term investments — — — — — Free-standing derivatives, net (7 ) 6 — — — Other assets 1 — — — — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 973 $ 3 $ 23 $ 76 $ (559 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ (299 ) $ 5 $ — $ — $ — Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ (299 ) $ 5 $ — $ — $ — Purchases Sales Issues Settlements Balance as of December 31, 2016 Assets Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies $ — $ — $ — $ (1 ) $ — Municipal 22 (40 ) — (3 ) 125 Corporate - public 47 (11 ) — (2 ) 78 Corporate - privately placed 181 (15 ) — (56 ) 263 ABS - CDO 40 (3 ) — (45 ) 27 ABS - consumer and other 35 (5 ) — (3 ) 42 RMBS — (1 ) — — 1 CMBS 5 — — (2 ) 22 Total fixed income securities 330 (75 ) — (112 ) 558 Equity securities 65 (4 ) — 1 163 Short-term investments 15 — — — 15 Free-standing derivatives, net — — — (1 ) (2 ) (2) Other assets — — — — 1 Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 410 $ (79 ) $ — $ (112 ) $ 735 Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 7 $ (290 ) Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 7 $ (290 ) (1) The effect to net income totals $8 million and is reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as follows: $(9) million in realized capital gains and losses, $12 million in net investment income, $(4) million in interest credited to contractholder funds and $9 million in life contract benefits. (2) Comprises $1 million of assets and $3 million of liabilities.
Schedule of gains and losses included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the balance sheet date	Valuation changes included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities held as of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Assets Fixed income securities: Municipal $ — $ (3 ) $ 2 Corporate — 1 2 Total fixed income securities — (2 ) 4 Equity securities 36 13 (32 ) Free-standing derivatives, net — — 5 Other assets — (1 ) — Total recurring Level 3 assets $ 36 $ 10 $ (23 ) Liabilities Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts $ 58 $ — $ 5 Total recurring Level 3 liabilities $ 58 $ — $ 5
Schedule of carrying values and fair value estimates of financial instruments not carried at fair value	Carrying values and fair value estimates of financial instruments not carried at fair value December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Fair value level Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Fair value Mortgage loans Level 3 $ 4,670 $ 4,703 $ 4,534 $ 4,732 Bank loans Level 3 1,350 1,298 1,702 1,704 Agent loans Level 3 620 617 538 536 Carrying values and fair value estimates of financial instruments not carried at fair value December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Fair value level Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Fair value Contractholder funds on investment contracts Level 3 $ 9,250 $ 9,665 $ 10,367 $ 11,071 Long-term debt Level 2 6,451 6,708 6,350 7,199 Liability for collateral Level 2 1,458 1,458 1,124 1,124

Derivative Financial Instrume_2

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Volume and fair value positions of derivative instruments and location in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position	Summary of the volume and fair value positions of derivative instruments as of December 31, 2018 Volume (1) ($ in millions, except number of contracts) Balance sheet location Notional amount Number of contracts Fair value, net Gross asset Gross liability Asset derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other investments $ 6 n/a $ — $ — $ — Futures Other assets — 1,330 1 1 — Equity and index contracts Options Other investments — 11,131 115 115 — Futures Other assets — 1,453 1 1 — Total return index contracts Total return swap agreements - fixed income Other investments 7 — — — — Total return swap agreements - equity index Other investments 61 — (2 ) — (2 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other investments 258 n/a 10 11 (1 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other investments 136 n/a (1 ) 2 (3 ) Other contracts Other Other investments 2 n/a — — — Total asset derivatives $ 470 13,914 $ 124 $ 130 $ (6 ) Liability derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses $ 31 n/a $ 1 $ 1 $ — Futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 1,300 (1 ) — (1 ) Equity and index contracts Options and futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 10,956 (50 ) — (50 ) Total return index contracts Total return swap agreements - fixed income Other liabilities & accrued expenses 38 — (1 ) — (1 ) Total return swap agreements - equity index Other liabilities & accrued expenses 71 — (4 ) — (4 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other liabilities & accrued expenses 341 n/a 10 11 (1 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments Guaranteed accumulation benefits Contractholder funds 169 n/a (25 ) — (25 ) Guaranteed withdrawal benefits Contractholder funds 210 n/a (14 ) — (14 ) Equity-indexed and forward starting options in life and annuity product contracts Contractholder funds 1,770 n/a (185 ) — (185 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 40 n/a — — — Credit default swaps – selling protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 5 n/a — — — Total liability derivatives 2,675 12,256 (269 ) $ 12 $ (281 ) Total derivatives $ 3,145 26,170 $ (145 ) (1) Volume for OTC and cleared derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable) Summary of the volume and fair value positions of derivative instruments as of December 31, 2017 Volume (1) ($ in millions, except number of contracts) Balance sheet location Notional amount Number of contracts Fair value, net Gross asset Gross liability Asset derivatives Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other investments $ 15 n/a $ — $ — $ — Equity and index contracts Options Other investments — 6,316 125 125 — Futures Other assets — 289 — — — Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other investments 52 n/a 1 1 — Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other investments 105 n/a (1 ) — (1 ) Credit default swaps – selling protection Other investments 80 n/a 1 1 — Other contracts Other Other assets 3 n/a — — — Total asset derivatives $ 255 6,605 $ 126 $ 127 $ (1 ) Liability derivatives Derivatives designated as accounting hedging instruments Foreign currency swap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses $ 19 n/a $ 2 $ 2 $ — Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments Interest rate contracts Interest rate cap agreements Other liabilities & accrued expenses 30 n/a 1 1 — Equity and index contracts Options and futures Other liabilities & accrued expenses — 7,128 (58 ) — (58 ) Foreign currency contracts Foreign currency forwards Other liabilities & accrued expenses 650 n/a (17 ) 3 (20 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments Guaranteed accumulation benefits Contractholder funds 225 n/a (22 ) — (22 ) Guaranteed withdrawal benefits Contractholder funds 274 n/a (12 ) — (12 ) Equity-indexed and forward starting options in life and annuity product contracts Contractholder funds 1,774 n/a (252 ) — (252 ) Credit default contracts Credit default swaps – buying protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 136 n/a (5 ) — (5 ) Credit default swaps – selling protection Other liabilities & accrued expenses 25 n/a — — — Subtotal 3,114 7,128 (365 ) 4 (369 ) Total liability derivatives 3,133 7,128 (363 ) $ 6 $ (369 ) Total derivatives $ 3,388 13,733 $ (237 ) (1) Volume for OTC and cleared derivative contracts is represented by their notional amounts. Volume for exchange traded derivatives is represented by the number of contracts, which is the basis on which they are traded. (n/a = not applicable)
Schedule of gross and net amount for the Company's OTC derivatives subject to enforceable master netting arrangements	Gross and net amounts for OTC derivatives (1) Offsets ($ in millions) Gross amount Counter- party netting Cash collateral (received) pledged Net amount on balance sheet Securities collateral (received) pledged Net amount December 31, 2018 Asset derivatives $ 25 $ (18 ) $ (5 ) $ 2 $ — $ 2 Liability derivatives (12 ) 18 (12 ) (6 ) — (6 ) December 31, 2017 Asset derivatives $ 8 $ (7 ) $ 1 $ 2 $ — $ 2 Liability derivatives (26 ) 7 7 (12 ) 3 (9 ) (1) All OTC derivatives are subject to enforceable master netting agreements.
Impacts on operations and AOCI from foreign currency contracts, cash flow hedges	Summary of the impacts of the foreign currency contracts in cash flow hedging relationships For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives during the period $ 1 $ (2 ) $ — (Loss) gain recognized in OCI on derivatives during the term of the hedging relationship (3 ) (1 ) 2 Gain reclassified from AOCI into income (net investment income) — 1 1 Gain reclassified from AOCI into income (realized capital gains and losses) 3 — 3
Gains and losses from valuation, settlements, and hedge ineffectiveness, fair value hedges and derivatives not designated as hedges	Gains (losses) from valuation and settlements reported on derivatives not designated as accounting hedges ($ in millions) Realized capital gains (losses) Life contract benefits Interest credited to contractholder funds Operating costs and expenses Total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives 2018 Interest rate contracts $ (2 ) $ — $ — $ — $ (2 ) Equity and index contracts 21 — (24 ) (21 ) (24 ) Embedded derivative financial instruments — (5 ) 67 — 62 Foreign currency contracts 29 — — (1 ) 28 Credit default contracts 2 — — — 2 Total return swaps - fixed income (1 ) — — — (1 ) Total return swaps - equity (6 ) — — — (6 ) Total $ 43 $ (5 ) $ 43 $ (22 ) $ 59 2017 Equity and index contracts $ (15 ) $ — $ 47 $ 28 $ 60 Embedded derivative financial instruments — 9 (6 ) — 3 Foreign currency contracts (27 ) — — 6 (21 ) Credit default contracts (4 ) — — — (4 ) Total $ (46 ) $ 9 $ 41 $ 34 $ 38 2016 Equity and index contracts $ (12 ) $ — $ 18 $ 19 $ 25 Embedded derivative financial instruments — 9 — — 9 Foreign currency contracts 17 — — (35 ) (18 ) Credit default contracts (5 ) — — — (5 ) Total $ — $ 9 $ 18 $ (16 ) $ 11
Counterparty credit exposure by counterparty credit rating	OTC derivatives counterparty credit exposure by counterparty credit rating ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Rating (1) Number of counter-parties Notional amount (2) Credit exposure (2) Exposure, net of collateral (2) Number of counter-parties Notional amount (2) Credit exposure (2) Exposure, net of collateral (2) AA– — $ — $ — $ — 1 $ 18 $ 1 $ — A+ 3 643 19 1 3 90 3 1 A 2 121 1 — — — — — Total 5 $ 764 $ 20 $ 1 4 $ 108 $ 4 $ 1 (1) Allstate uses the lower of S&P’s or Moody’s long term debt issuer ratings. (2) Only OTC derivatives with a net positive fair value are included for each counterparty.
Derivative instruments with credit features in a liability position, including fair value of assets and collateral netted against the liability	($ in millions) 2018 2017 Gross liability fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features $ 11 $ 28 Gross asset fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features and subject to MNAs (5 ) (17 ) Collateral posted under MNAs for contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features (2 ) (6 ) Maximum amount of additional exposure for contracts with credit-risk-contingent features if all features were triggered concurrently $ 4 $ 5
CDS notional amounts by credit rating and fair value of protection sold	CDS notional amounts by credit rating and fair value of protection sold Notional amount ($ in millions) AA A BBB BB and lower Total Fair value December 31, 2018 Single name Corporate debt $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ 5 $ — Total $ — $ — $ — $ 5 $ 5 $ — December 31, 2017 Single name Corporate debt $ — $ 10 $ 10 $ 5 $ 25 $ — Index Corporate debt 1 19 45 15 80 1 Total $ 1 $ 29 $ 55 $ 20 $ 105 $ 1
Contractual amounts of off-balance-sheet financial instruments	Contractual amounts of off balance sheet financial instruments As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests $ 3,028 $ 3,121 Private placement commitments 47 96 Other loan commitments 233 97

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_2

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense
Activity in the reserve for property-liability insurance claims and claims expense	Rollforward of reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance as of January 1 $ 26,325 $ 25,250 $ 23,869 Less recoverables (1) (6,471 ) (6,184 ) (5,892 ) Net balance as of January 1 19,854 19,066 17,977 SquareTrade acquisition as of January 3, 2017 — 17 — Incurred claims and claims expense related to: Current year 23,033 22,350 22,177 Prior years (255 ) (503 ) (17 ) Total incurred 22,778 21,847 22,160 Claims and claims expense paid related to: Current year (14,877 ) (14,112 ) (14,161 ) Prior years (7,487 ) (6,964 ) (6,910 ) Total paid (22,364 ) (21,076 ) (21,071 ) Net balance as of December 31 20,268 19,854 19,066 Plus recoverables 7,155 6,471 6,184 Balance as of December 31 $ 27,423 $ 26,325 $ 25,250 (1) Recoverables comprises reinsurance and indemnification recoverables. See Note 10 for further details. Reconciliation of total claims and claims expense incurred and paid by coverage December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Incurred Paid Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage $ 8,413 $ (7,535 ) Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 5,088 (5,134 ) Homeowners insurance 4,817 (4,714 ) Total auto and homeowners insurance 18,318 (17,383 ) Other personal lines 1,081 (1,055 ) Commercial lines 545 (369 ) Service Businesses 313 (325 ) Discontinued Lines and Coverages 73 (91 ) Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”) 2,479 (2,574 ) Claims incurred and paid from before 2014 (68 ) (398 ) Other 37 (169 ) Total $ 22,778 $ (22,364 )
Incurred and paid claims and claims expense	Auto insurance – physical damage coverage ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 4,296 $ 4,284 $ 4,258 $ 4,261 $ 4,260 $ (1 ) $ 3 4,144,633 2015 — 4,646 4,675 4,663 4,654 (9 ) 6 4,389,912 2016 — — 5,118 5,045 5,018 (27 ) 6 4,430,776 2017 — — — 5,111 5,029 (82 ) 1 4,232,605 2018 — — — — 5,207 246 4,150,524 Total $ 24,168 $ (119 ) Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (3 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE (5 ) Other 1 Total prior year reserve reestimates $ (126 ) Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 4,137 $ 4,269 $ 4,261 $ 4,258 $ 4,257 2015 — 4,501 4,665 4,652 4,648 2016 — — 4,881 5,024 5,012 2017 — — — 4,838 5,029 2018 — — — — 4,960 Total $ 23,906 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 9 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 271 Homeowners insurance ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 3,589 $ 3,636 $ 3,640 $ 3,609 $ 3,599 $ (10 ) $ 52 765,329 2015 — 3,553 3,607 3,548 3,532 (16 ) 79 720,955 2016 — — 3,952 3,987 3,949 (38 ) 147 812,785 2017 — — — 4,469 4,611 142 370 902,301 2018 — — — — 4,739 1,256 743,408 Total $ 20,430 $ 78 Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (23 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE (50 ) Other 9 Total prior year reserve reestimates $ 14 Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 2,729 $ 3,356 $ 3,472 $ 3,524 $ 3,547 2015 — 2,583 3,291 3,394 3,453 2016 — — 2,942 3,672 3,802 2017 — — — 3,222 4,241 2018 — — — — 3,483 Total $ 18,526 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 140 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 2,044 The information about incurred and paid claims development for the 2014 to 2018 years, and the average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age as of December 31, 2018 , is presented as required supplementary information. Auto insurance – liability coverage ($ in millions, except number of reported claims) Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims Cumulative number of reported claims For the years ended December 31, Prior year reserve reestimates As of December 31, 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 7,727 $ 7,833 $ 7,797 $ 7,727 $ 7,661 $ (66 ) $ 471 2,195,241 2015 — 8,741 8,711 8,656 8,596 (60 ) 1,044 2,382,914 2016 — — 9,007 8,811 8,711 (100 ) 1,873 2,396,876 2017 — — — 8,436 8,369 (67 ) 3,049 2,204,093 2018 — — — — 8,706 5,484 2,075,655 Total $ 42,043 $ (293 ) Reconciliation to total prior year reserve reestimates recognized by line Prior year reserve reestimates for pre-2014 accident years (43 ) Prior year reserve reestimates for ULAE 8 Other (1 ) Total prior year reserve reestimates $ (329 ) Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables For the years ended December 31, (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Accident year 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2014 $ 3,168 $ 5,308 $ 6,247 $ 6,813 $ 7,190 2015 — 3,518 5,828 6,872 7,552 2016 — — 3,479 5,759 6,838 2017 — — — 3,143 5,320 2018 — — — — 3,222 Total $ 30,122 All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables 1,259 Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables $ 13,180
Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of reinsurance	Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Auto insurance – liability coverage 40.2 % 27.3 % 12.6 % 8.0 % 4.7 % Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Auto insurance – p hysical damage coverage 96.9 % 3.1 % (0.2 )% — % — % Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of recoverables, as of December 31, 2018 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years Homeowners insurance 74.7 % 18.8 % 2.9 % 1.4 % 0.7 %
Reconciliation of the net incurred claims and claims expense development	Reconciliation of the net incurred and paid claims development tables above to the reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense ($ in millions) As of December 31, 2018 Net outstanding liabilities Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage $ 13,180 Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 271 Homeowners insurance 2,044 Other personal lines 1,356 Commercial lines 766 Service Businesses 50 Discontinued Lines and Coverages (1) 1,315 ULAE 1,286 Net reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense 20,268 Recoverables Allstate Protection Auto insurance - liability coverage 5,829 Auto insurance - physical damage coverage 12 Homeowners insurance 472 Other personal lines 195 Commercial lines 53 Service Businesses 12 Discontinued Lines and Coverages 473 ULAE 109 Total recoverables 7,155 Gross reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense $ 27,423 (1) Discontinued Lines and Coverages includes business in run-off with a majority of the claims related to accident years more than 30 years ago. IBNR reserves represent $693 million of the total reserves as of December 31, 2018 .

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_2

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds
Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Immediate fixed annuities: Structured settlement annuities $ 6,701 $ 6,994 Other immediate fixed annuities 1,714 1,855 Traditional life insurance 2,808 2,722 Accident and health insurance 876 893 Other 109 85 Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits $ 12,208 $ 12,549
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits Product Mortality Interest rate Estimation method Structured settlement annuities U.S. population with projected calendar year improvements; mortality rates adjusted for each impaired life based on reduction in life expectancy Interest rate assumptions range from 2.9% to 9.0% Present value of contractually specified future benefits Other immediate fixed annuities 1983 group annuity mortality table with internal modifications; 1983 individual annuity mortality table; Annuity 2000 mortality table with internal modifications; Annuity 2000 mortality table; 1983 individual annuity mortality table with internal modifications Interest rate assumptions range from 0.0% to 11.5% Present value of expected future benefits based on historical experience Traditional life insurance Actual company experience plus loading Interest rate assumptions range from 2.5% to 11.3% Net level premium reserve method using the Company’s withdrawal experience rates; includes reserves for unpaid claims Accident and health insurance Actual company experience plus loading Interest rate assumptions range from 3.0% to 7.0% Unearned premium; additional contract reserves for mortality risk and unpaid claims Other: Variable annuity guaranteed minimum death benefits (1) Annuity 2012 mortality table with internal modifications Interest rate assumptions range from 2.0% to 5.8% Projected benefit ratio applied to cumulative assessments (1) In 2006, the Company disposed of substantially all of its variable annuity business through reinsurance agreements with The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a subsidiary of Prudential Financial, Inc. (collectively “Prudential”).
Contractholder funds	Contractholder funds As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Interest-sensitive life insurance $ 8,229 $ 8,190 Investment contracts: Fixed annuities 9,681 10,828 Other investment contracts 461 416 Total contractholder funds $ 18,371 $ 19,434
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds	Key contract provisions of contractholder funds Product Interest rate Withdrawal/surrender charges Interest-sensitive life insurance Interest rates credited range from 0.0% to 10.5% for equity-indexed life (whose returns are indexed to the S&P 500) and 1.0% to 6.0% for all other products Either a percentage of account balance or dollar amount grading off generally over 20 years Fixed annuities Interest rates credited range from 0.0% to 9.8% for immediate annuities; (8.0)% to 10.8% for equity-indexed annuities (whose returns are indexed to the S&P 500); and 0.1% to 6.0% for all other products Either a declining or a level percentage charge generally over ten years or less. Additionally, approximately 13.5% of fixed annuities are subject to market value adjustment for discretionary withdrawals Other investment contracts: Guaranteed minimum income, accumulation and withdrawal benefits on variable (1) and fixed annuities and secondary guarantees on interest-sensitive life insurance and fixed annuities Interest rates used in establishing reserves range from 1.7% to 10.3% Withdrawal and surrender charges are based on the terms of the related interest-sensitive life insurance or fixed annuity contract (1) In 2006, the Company disposed of substantially all of its variable annuity business through reinsurance agreements with Prudential.
Contractholder funds activity	Contractholder funds activity For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 19,434 $ 20,260 $ 21,295 Deposits 1,109 1,130 1,164 Interest credited 650 687 722 Benefits (844 ) (901 ) (966 ) Surrenders and partial withdrawals (1,135 ) (999 ) (1,053 ) Maturities of and interest payments on institutional products — — (86 ) Contract charges (824 ) (826 ) (829 ) Net transfers from separate accounts 6 5 5 Other adjustments (25 ) 78 8 Balance, end of year $ 18,371 $ 19,434 $ 20,260
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees	The table below presents information regarding the Company’s variable annuity contracts with guarantees. The Company’s variable annuity contracts may offer more than one type of guarantee in each contract; therefore, the sum of amounts listed exceeds the total account balances of variable annuity contracts’ separate accounts with guarantees. ($ in millions) As of December 31, 2018 2017 In the event of death Separate account value $ 2,711 $ 3,344 Net amount at risk (1) $ 605 $ 454 Average attained age of contractholders 71 years 70 years At annuitization (includes income benefit guarantees) Separate account value $ 778 $ 944 Net amount at risk (2) $ 264 $ 202 Weighted average waiting period until annuitization options available None None For cumulative periodic withdrawals Separate account value $ 190 $ 253 Net amount at risk (3) $ 16 $ 10 Accumulation at specified dates Separate account value $ 129 $ 170 Net amount at risk (4) $ 26 $ 17 Weighted average waiting period until guarantee date 4 years 5 years (1) Defined as the estimated current guaranteed minimum death benefit in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. (2) Defined as the estimated present value of the guaranteed minimum annuity payments in excess of the current account balance. (3) Defined as the estimated current guaranteed minimum withdrawal balance (initial deposit) in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. (4) Defined as the estimated present value of the guaranteed minimum accumulation balance in excess of the current account balance.
Liabilities for guarantees	Summary of liabilities for guarantees ($ in millions) Liability for guarantees related to death benefits and interest-sensitive life products Liability for guarantees related to income benefits Liability for guarantees related to accumulation and withdrawal benefits Total Balance, December 31, 2017 (1) $ 262 $ 29 $ 79 $ 370 Less reinsurance recoverables 87 25 34 146 Net balance as of December 31, 2017 175 4 45 224 Incurred guarantee benefits 24 — 13 37 Paid guarantee benefits (2 ) — — (2 ) Net change 22 — 13 35 Net balance as of December 31, 2018 197 4 58 259 Plus reinsurance recoverables 111 35 39 185 Balance, December 31, 2018 (2) $ 308 $ 39 $ 97 $ 444 Balance, December 31, 2016 (3) $ 244 $ 44 $ 77 $ 365 Less reinsurance recoverables 101 40 43 184 Net balance as of December 31, 2016 143 4 34 181 Incurred guarantee benefits 34 — 11 45 Paid guarantee benefits (2 ) — — (2 ) Net change 32 — 11 43 Net balance as of December 31, 2017 175 4 45 224 Plus reinsurance recoverables 87 25 34 146 Balance, December 31, 2017 (1) $ 262 $ 29 $ 79 $ 370 (1) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2017 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $85 million , variable annuity income benefits of $26 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $22 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $12 million and other guarantees of $225 million . (2) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2018 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $109 million , variable annuity income benefits of $36 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $25 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $14 million and other guarantees of $260 million . (3) Included in the total liability balance as of December 31, 2016 are reserves for variable annuity death benefits of $100 million , variable annuity income benefits of $40 million , variable annuity accumulation benefits of $34 million , variable annuity withdrawal benefits of $9 million and other guarantees of $182 million .

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_2

Reinsurance and Indemnification (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Effects of reinsurance on property-liability insurance premiums written and earned and life and annuity premiums and contract charges	Effects of reinsurance and indemnification on property and casualty premiums written and earned and life premiums and contract charges For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Property and casualty insurance premiums written Direct $ 35,895 $ 33,685 $ 32,614 Assumed 99 64 47 Ceded (1,008 ) (1,007 ) (1,061 ) Property and casualty insurance premiums written, net of recoverables $ 34,986 $ 32,742 $ 31,600 Property and casualty insurance premiums earned Direct $ 34,977 $ 33,221 $ 32,249 Assumed 87 50 45 Ceded (1,016 ) (971 ) (987 ) Property and casualty insurance premiums earned, net of recoverables $ 34,048 $ 32,300 $ 31,307 Life premiums and contract charges Direct $ 2,001 $ 1,894 $ 1,766 Assumed 754 787 818 Ceded (290 ) (303 ) (309 ) Life premiums and contract charges, net of recoverables $ 2,465 $ 2,378 $ 2,275
Summary of retention limits by period of policy issuance	Retention limits by period of policy issuance Period Retention limits April 2015 through current Single life: $2 million per life Joint life: no longer offered April 2011 through March 2015 Single life: $5 million per life, $3 million age 70 and over, and $10 million for contracts that meet specific criteria Joint life: $8 million per life, and $10 million for contracts that meet specific criteria July 2007 through March 2011 $5 million per life, $3 million age 70 and over, and $10 million for contracts that meet specific criteria September 1998 through June 2007 $2 million per life, in 2006 the limit was increased to $5 million for instances when specific criteria were met August 1998 and prior Up to $1 million per life
Summary of reinsurance recoverables on paid and unpaid benefits	Reinsurance recoverables on paid and unpaid benefits As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Annuities $ 1,381 $ 1,370 Life insurance 776 817 Other 142 167 Total $ 2,299 $ 2,354

Deferred Policy Acquisition a_2

Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Schedule of deferred policy acquisition costs	Deferred policy acquisition costs activity For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 4,191 $ 3,954 $ 3,861 SquareTrade acquisition — 66 — Acquisition costs deferred (1) 5,663 5,001 4,717 Amortization charged to income (1) (5,222 ) (4,784 ) (4,550 ) Effect of unrealized gains and losses 152 (46 ) (74 ) Balance, end of year $ 4,784 $ 4,191 $ 3,954
Schedule of DSI activity for Allstate Financial	Deferred sales inducement costs activity (2) For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 36 $ 40 $ 45 Sales inducements deferred — — 1 Amortization charged to income (4 ) (4 ) (5 ) Effect of unrealized gains and losses 2 — (1 ) Balance, end of year $ 34 $ 36 $ 40 (1) Includes $152 million of acquisition costs deferred and $101 million of amortization charged to income related to the revenue from contracts with customers accounting standard adopted in 2018. (2) Deferred sales inducement costs primarily relate to fixed annuities and interest-sensitive life contracts and are recorded as part of other assets on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Capital Structure (Tables)

Capital Structure (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Capital Structure
Total debt outstanding	Total debt outstanding As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 6.75% Senior Debentures, due 2018 $ — $ 176 7.45% Senior Notes, due 2019 (1) 317 317 Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2021 (1) 250 — Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2023 (1) 250 — 3.15% Senior Notes, due 2023 (1) 500 500 Due after one year through five years 1,317 993 3.28% Senior Notes, due 2026 (1) 550 550 Due after five years through ten years 550 550 6.125% Senior Notes, due 2032 (1) 159 159 5.35% Senior Notes due 2033 (1) 323 323 5.55% Senior Notes due 2035 (1) 546 546 5.95% Senior Notes, due 2036 (1) 386 386 6.90% Senior Debentures, due 2038 165 165 5.20% Senior Notes, due 2042 (1) 62 62 4.50% Senior Notes, due 2043 (1) 500 500 4.20% Senior Notes, due 2046 (1) 700 700 5.10% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053 500 500 5.75% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053 800 800 6.125% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067 — 224 6.50% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067 500 500 Due after ten years 4,641 4,865 Long-term debt total principal 6,508 6,408 Debt issuance costs (57 ) (58 ) Total long-term debt 6,451 6,350 Short-term debt (2) — — Total debt $ 6,451 $ 6,350 (1) Senior Notes, with the exception of Senior Floating Notes (as defined below), are subject to redemption at the Company’s option in whole or in part at any time at the greater of either 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date or the discounted sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest and accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. (2) The Company classifies any borrowings which have a maturity of twelve months or less at inception as short-term debt.
Schedule of debt maturities for each of the next five years and thereafter	Debt maturities for each of the next five years and thereafter ($ in millions) 2019 $ 317 2020 — 2021 250 2022 — 2023 750 Thereafter 5,191 Total long-term debt principal $ 6,508
Schedule of noncumulative outstanding preferred stock	Total preferred stock outstanding As of December 31, Aggregate liquidation preference ($ in millions) Dividend per depository share (1) Aggregate dividend payment ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Dividend rate 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Series A 11,500 11,500 $ 287.5 $ 287.5 5.625 % $ 1.41 $ 1.41 $ 1.41 $ 16 $ 16 $ 16 Series C — 15,400 — 385.0 6.750 % 1.69 1.69 1.69 26 (2) 26 26 Series D 5,400 5,400 135.0 135.0 6.625 % 1.66 1.66 1.66 9 9 9 Series E 29,900 29,900 747.5 747.5 6.625 % 1.66 1.66 1.66 49 49 49 Series F 10,000 10,000 250.0 250.0 6.250 % 1.56 1.56 1.56 16 16 16 Series G 23,000 — 575.0 — 5.625 % 1.41 — — 18 — — Total 79,800 72,200 $ 1,995 $ 1,805 $ 134 (2) $ 116 $ 116 (1) Each depositary share represents a 1/1,000 th interest in a share of preferred stock. (2) Excludes $13 million related to the excess of redemption price over carrying value recognized as part of preferred stock dividends on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity.

Company Restructuring (Tables)

Company Restructuring (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of changes in the restructuring liability	Restructuring activity during the period ($ in millions) Employee costs Exit costs Total liability Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2017 $ 15 $ 30 $ 45 Expense incurred 50 20 70 Adjustments to liability (1 ) (2 ) (3 ) Payments and non-cash pension settlements (35 ) (33 ) (68 ) Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2018 $ 29 $ 15 $ 44

Commitments, Guarantees and C_2

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum rental commitments under noncancelable capital and operating leases	Minimum rental commitments under operating leases with an initial or remaining term of more than one year as of December 31, 2018 are in the following table: ($ in millions) 2019 $ 130 2020 121 2021 96 2022 80 2023 65 Thereafter 151 Total $ 643

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]	Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) 20-Year Carryforward Expires in 2025-2036 Indefinite Carryforward Period Total US Federal $ 149 $ 60 $ 209 Foreign — 30 30 Total $ 149 $ 90 $ 239
Reconciliation of the change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits	Reconciliation of the change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Balance – beginning of year $ 55 $ 10 $ 7 Increase for tax positions taken in a prior year 3 34 — Increase for tax positions taken in the current year 12 11 3 Balance – end of year $ 70 $ 55 $ 10
Components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities	Components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities As of December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets Unearned premium reserves $ 594 $ 545 Accrued compensation 145 137 Pension 192 86 Discount on loss reserves 67 53 Net operating loss carryover 50 50 Other assets 57 49 Other postretirement benefits 45 48 Total deferred tax assets 1,150 968 Deferred tax liabilities DAC (854 ) (770 ) Unrealized net capital gains (2 ) (422 ) Life and annuity reserves (194 ) (241 ) Intangible assets (145 ) (113 ) Investments (278 ) (106 ) Other liabilities (102 ) (98 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (1,575 ) (1,750 ) Net deferred tax liability $ (425 ) $ (782 )
Components of income tax expense	Components of income tax expense For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Current $ 704 $ 1,018 $ 654 Deferred (236 ) (23 ) 188 Total income tax expense $ 468 $ 995 $ 842
Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate on income from operations	Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate For the years ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Statutory federal income tax rate on income from operations 21.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Tax Legislation benefit (1.1 ) (11.2 ) — Share-based payments (0.6 ) (1.4 ) — Tax-exempt income (0.9 ) (0.7 ) (1.2 ) Tax credits (1.3 ) (1.3 ) (1.3 ) Non-deductible goodwill impairment — 1.0 — Other 0.7 0.5 (0.7 ) Effective income tax rate on income from operations 17.8 % 21.9 % 31.8 %

Statutory Financial Informati_2

Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations [Abstract]
Statutory net income and capital and surplus	Statutory net income (loss) and capital and surplus of Allstate’s domestic insurance subsidiaries Net income (loss) Capital and surplus ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 Amounts by major business type: Property and casualty insurance $ 2,939 $ 3,050 $ 1,520 $ 14,328 $ 14,903 Life insurance, annuities and voluntary accident and health insurance 465 327 197 3,819 3,727 Amount per statutory accounting practices $ 3,404 $ 3,377 $ 1,717 $ 18,147 $ 18,630

Benefit Plans (Tables)

Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Change in pension plan assets	Change in projected benefit obligation, plan assets and funded status As of December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Change in projected benefit obligation Benefit obligation, beginning of year $ 6,815 $ 6,591 $ 386 $ 373 Service cost 110 111 7 8 Interest cost 255 254 15 15 Participant contributions — — 13 12 Actuarial (gains) losses (255 ) 406 (4 ) 8 Benefits paid (646 ) (553 ) (35 ) (35 ) Translation adjustment and other (55 ) 6 (7 ) 5 Benefit obligation, end of year $ 6,224 $ 6,815 $ 375 $ 386 Change in plan assets Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year $ 6,284 $ 5,650 Actual return on plan assets (300 ) 1,051 Employer contribution 16 131 Benefits paid (646 ) (553 ) Translation adjustment and other (55 ) 5 Fair value of plan assets, end of year $ 5,299 $ 6,284 Funded status (1) (2) (3) $ (925 ) $ (531 ) $ (375 ) $ (386 ) Amounts recognized in AOCI Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit $ (198 ) $ (254 ) $ (16 ) $ (37 ) (1) The primary qualified employee plan represents 78% of the pension benefits’ underfunded status as of December 31, 2018 . (2) The funded status is recorded within other liabilities and accrued expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. (3) The Company’s other postretirement benefit plans are not funded.
Change during the period in items not yet recognized as a component of net periodic cost	(2) The funded status is recorded within other liabilities and accrued expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position. (3) The Company’s other postretirement benefit plans are not funded. Changes in items not yet recognized as a component of net cost for pension and other postretirement plans ($ in millions) Pension benefits Postretirement benefits Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2017 $ (254 ) $ (37 ) Prior service credit amortized to net cost 56 21 Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2018 $ (198 ) $ (16 )
Components of net periodic cost	Components of net cost (benefit) for pension and other postretirement plans For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Service cost $ 110 $ 111 $ 113 $ 7 $ 8 $ 9 Interest cost 255 254 286 15 15 18 Expected return on plan assets (427 ) (419 ) (387 ) — — — Amortization of prior service credit (56 ) (56 ) (56 ) (21 ) (25 ) (21 ) Costs and expenses (118 ) (110 ) (44 ) 1 (2 ) 6 Remeasurement of projected benefit obligation (255 ) 406 388 (4 ) 8 (14 ) Remeasurement of plan assets 727 (631 ) (104 ) — — — Remeasurement gains and losses 472 (225 ) 284 (4 ) 8 (14 ) Total net cost (benefit) $ 354 $ (335 ) $ 240 $ (3 ) $ 6 $ (8 )
Weighted average assumptions used to determine for pension plans and postretirement benefits plans the net benefit cost and benefit obligation	Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost and net postretirement benefit cost For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 2018 2017 2016 Discount rate 4.06 % 3.96 % 4.78 % 3.95 % 3.91 % 4.56 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.15 3.16 3.16 n/a n/a n/a Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.33 7.32 7.30 n/a n/a n/a Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations For the years ended December 31, Pension benefits Postretirement benefits 2018 2017 2018 2017 Discount rate 4.31 % 3.67 % 4.22 % 3.63 % Rate of increase in compensation levels 3.16 3.15 n/a n/a
Pension plans' weighted average target asset allocation and the actual percentage of plan assets	Weighted average target asset allocation and actual percentage of plan assets by asset category As of December 31, 2018 Target asset allocation (1) Actual percentage of plan assets Pension plan’s asset category 2018 2018 2017 Equity securities (2) 36 - 53% 47 % 58 % Fixed income securities 40 - 53% 41 34 Limited partnership interests 0 - 15% 9 6 Short-term investments and other — 3 2 Total without securities lending (3) 100 % 100 % (1) The target asset allocation considers risk based exposure while the actual percentage of plan assets utilizes a financial reporting view excluding exposure provided through derivatives. (2) The actual percentage of plan assets for equity securities includes 1% and 2 % of private equity investments in 2018 and 2017 , respectively, that are subject to the limited partnership interests target allocation and 4% and 3% of fixed income mutual funds in 2018 and 2017 , respectively, that are subject to the fixed income securities target allocation. (3) Securities lending collateral reinvestment of $208 million and $202 million is excluded from the table above in 2018 and 2017 , respectively.
Fair values of pension plan assets	Fair values of pension plan assets as of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Balance as of December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ 51 $ 265 $ — $ 316 Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies 172 509 — 681 Corporate — 1,479 5 1,484 Short-term investments 122 198 — 320 Free-standing derivatives: Assets — 19 — 19 Liabilities — (11 ) — (11 ) Total plan assets at fair value $ 345 $ 2,459 $ 5 2,809 % of total plan assets at fair value 12.3 % 87.5 % 0.2 % 100.0 % Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient 2,687 Securities lending obligation (1) (222 ) Derivatives Counterparty and Cash Collateral Netting (6 ) Other net plan assets (2) 31 Total reported plan assets $ 5,299 (1) The securities lending obligation represents the plan’s obligation to return securities lending collateral received under a securities lending program. The terms of the program allow both the plan and the counterparty the right and ability to redeem/return the securities loaned on short notice. Due to its relatively short-term nature, the outstanding balance of the obligation approximates fair value. (2) Other net plan assets represent cash and cash equivalents, interest and dividends receivable and net receivables related to settlements of investment transactions, such as purchases and sales. Fair values of pension plan assets as of December 31, 2017 ($ in millions) Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Balance as of December 31, 2017 Equity securities $ 126 $ 264 $ 29 $ 419 Fixed income securities: U.S. government and agencies 174 420 — 594 Corporate — 1,543 10 1,553 Short-term investments 97 197 — 294 Cash and cash equivalents 21 — — 21 Free-standing derivatives: Assets — 1 — 1 Total plan assets at fair value $ 418 $ 2,425 $ 39 2,882 % of total plan assets at fair value 14.5 % 84.1 % 1.4 % 100.0 % Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient 3,598 Securities lending obligation (216 ) Other net plan assets 20 Total reported plan assets $ 6,284
Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets	Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2018 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2017 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2018 Equity securities $ 29 $ — $ 3 $ — $ (32 ) $ — Fixed income securities: Corporate 10 — — (5 ) — 5 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 39 $ — $ 3 $ (5 ) $ (32 ) $ 5 Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2017 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2016 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2017 Equity securities $ — $ — $ — $ 29 $ — $ 29 Fixed income securities: Corporate 10 — — — — 10 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 10 $ — $ — $ 29 $ — $ 39 Rollforward of Level 3 plan assets during December 31, 2016 Actual return on plan assets: ($ in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2015 Relating to assets sold during the period Relating to assets still held at the reporting date Purchases, sales and settlements, net Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 Balance as of December 31, 2016 Equity securities $ 1 $ (1 ) $ — $ — $ — $ — Fixed income securities: Municipal 7 — — (7 ) — — Corporate 10 — — (5 ) 5 10 Total Level 3 plan assets $ 18 $ (1 ) $ — $ (12 ) $ 5 $ 10
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid	Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in the next 10 years As of December 31, 2018 ($ in millions) Pension benefits Postretirement benefits 2019 $ 448 $ 24 2020 462 25 2021 495 26 2022 509 27 2023 528 28 2024-2028 2,383 142 Total benefit payments $ 4,825 $ 272
Schedule of ESOP benefit	ESOP benefit For the years December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Interest expense recognized by ESOP $ — $ — $ 1 Less: dividends accrued on ESOP shares (1 ) (1 ) (3 ) Cost of shares allocated — 3 7 Compensation expense (1 ) 2 5 Reduction of defined contribution due to ESOP 1 38 60 ESOP benefit $ (2 ) $ (36 ) $ (55 )

Equity Incentive Plans (Tables)

Equity Incentive Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Equity Incentive Plans [Abstract]
Assumptions used to determine the fair value of options granted	Option grant assumptions 2018 2017 2016 Weighted average expected term 5.7 years 6.1 years 5.0 years Expected volatility 15.6 - 30.7% 15.7 - 32.7% 16.0 - 34.3% Weighted average volatility 19.8 % 21.0 % 24.3 % Expected dividends 1.5 - 2.2% 1.4 - 1.9% 1.9 - 2.1% Weighted average expected dividends 2.0 % 1.9 % 2.1 % Risk-free rate 1.3 - 3.2% 0.5 - 2.5% 0.2 - 2.4%
Summary of option activity	Summary of option activity For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average exercise price Aggregate intrinsic value (in 000s) Weighted average remaining contractual term (years) Outstanding as of January 1, 2018 11,262 $ 58.46 Granted 2,388 93.04 Exercised (1,710 ) 53.57 Forfeited (206 ) 80.79 Expired (4 ) 52.21 Outstanding as of December 31, 2018 11,730 65.82 $ 221,999 6.3 Outstanding, net of expected forfeitures 11,614 65.59 221,832 6.3 Outstanding, exercisable (“vested”) 6,968 54.14 198,747 5.0
Changes in restricted stock units	Changes in restricted stock units For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average grant date fair value Nonvested as of January 1, 2018 1,241 $ 67.93 Granted 255 93.16 Vested (498 ) 67.45 Forfeited (41 ) 75.40 Nonvested as of December 31, 2018 957 74.58
Changes in performance stock units	Changes in performance stock awards For the year ended December 31, 2018 Number (in 000s) Weighted average grant date fair value Nonvested as of January 1, 2018 1,090 $ 70.35 Granted 402 92.88 Adjustment for performance achievement (34 ) 70.53 Vested (161 ) 70.53 Forfeited (49 ) 76.33 Nonvested as of December 31, 2018 1,248 77.35

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Schedule of supplemental cash flow information from collateralized securities received	The accompanying cash flows are included in cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows along with the activities resulting from management of the proceeds as follows: For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Net change in proceeds managed Net change in fixed income securities $ 234 $ 259 $ (584 ) Net change in short-term investments (568 ) (255 ) 295 Operating cash flow (used) provided (334 ) 4 (289 ) Net change in cash — 1 — Net change in proceeds managed $ (334 ) $ 5 $ (289 ) Cash flows from operating activities Net change in liabilities Liabilities for collateral, beginning of year $ (1,124 ) $ (1,129 ) $ (840 ) Liabilities for collateral, end of year (1,458 ) (1,124 ) (1,129 ) Operating cash flow provided (used) $ 334 $ (5 ) $ 289

Other Comprehensive Income (Tab

Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss) on a pre-tax and after-tax basis	Components of other comprehensive income (loss) on a pre-tax and after-tax basis For the years ended December 31, ($ in millions) 2018 2017 2016 Pre-tax Tax After-tax Pre-tax Tax After-tax Pre-tax Tax After-tax Unrealized net holding gains and losses arising during the period, net of related offsets $ (1,142 ) $ 241 $ (901 ) $ 866 $ (304 ) $ 562 $ 486 $ (170 ) $ 316 Less: reclassification adjustment of realized capital gains and losses (186 ) 39 (147 ) 374 (131 ) 243 (180 ) 63 (117 ) Unrealized net capital gains and losses (956 ) 202 (754 ) 492 (173 ) 319 666 (233 ) 433 Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments (61 ) 13 (48 ) 69 (24 ) 45 14 (5 ) 9 Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit arising during the period — 2 2 1 — 1 22 (5 ) 17 Less: reclassification adjustment of prior service credit amortized into operating costs and expenses 77 (16 ) 61 81 (28 ) 53 77 (27 ) 50 Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit (77 ) 18 (59 ) (80 ) 28 (52 ) (55 ) 22 (33 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income $ (1,094 ) $ 233 $ (861 ) $ 481 $ (169 ) $ 312 $ 625 $ (216 ) $ 409

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results	As adjusted First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ($ in millions, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues $ 9,770 $ 9,644 $ 10,099 $ 9,813 $ 10,465 $ 9,888 $ 9,481 $ 10,062 Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders 977 785 678 549 942 810 (585 ) 1,294 Earnings per common share - Basic 2.76 2.15 1.94 1.51 2.72 2.24 (1.71 ) 3.62 Earnings per common share - Diluted 2.71 2.11 1.91 1.49 2.68 2.21 (1.71 ) 3.56 Impact of change First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter ($ in millions, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenues $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders 31 119 41 (1 ) 109 173 (273 ) 74 Earnings per common share - Basic 0.09 0.33 0.12 — 0.31 0.48 (0.80 ) 0.21 Earnings per common share - Diluted 0.08 0.32 0.11 — 0.31 0.47 (0.80 ) 0.21

General (Details)

General (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018segment
General
Number of reportable segments	7

Summary of Significant Accoun_4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Securities loaned and Recognition of premium revenues and contract charges, and related benefits and interest credited (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Securities loaned
Cash collateral received as percentage of fair value of domestic securities loaned	102.00%
Cash collateral received as a percent of fair value of foreign securities loaned	105.00%
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Valuation allowance for uncollectible premium installment receivables	$ 77	$ 77
Present value of future profits	45	47
Amortization expense of present value of future profits	$ 2	$ 6	$ 5
Minimum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC and DSI for interest-sensitive life, fixed annuities and other investment contracts	15 years
Maximum
Securities loaned
Securities lending transactions length	30 days
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC and DSI for interest-sensitive life, fixed annuities and other investment contracts	30 years
Personal lines | Minimum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Property and casualty insurance contract, terms	6 months
Period for amortization of DAC for property-liability insurance	6 months
Personal lines | Maximum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Property and casualty insurance contract, terms	12 months
Period for amortization of DAC for property-liability insurance	12 months
Consumer product protection plans | Minimum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Property and casualty insurance contract, terms	1 year
Consumer product protection plans | Maximum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Property and casualty insurance contract, terms	5 years
Protection plans and other contracts | Minimum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC for property-liability insurance	1 year
Protection plans and other contracts | Maximum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC for property-liability insurance	5 years
Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges | Minimum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC and DSI for interest-sensitive life, fixed annuities and other investment contracts	10 years
Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges | Maximum
Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs
Period for amortization of DAC and DSI for interest-sensitive life, fixed annuities and other investment contracts	20 years

Summary of Significant Accoun_5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill
Goodwill allocated to segments	$ 2,181	$ 2,530	$ 2,181
Goodwill impairment	125	0	125	$ 0
Allstate Protection
Goodwill
Goodwill allocated to segments	810	810	810
Service Businesses
Goodwill
Goodwill allocated to segments	1,100	1,449	1,100
Allstate Life
Goodwill
Goodwill allocated to segments	175	175	175
Allstate Benefits
Goodwill
Goodwill allocated to segments	$ 96	$ 96	$ 96

Summary of Significant Accoun_6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Intangible assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of purchased intangible assets	$ 105	$ 99	$ 32
Accumulated amortization	572	467
Intangible assets	$ 713	556
Customers relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life	10 years
Intangible assets	$ 530	396
Technology and other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 40	17
Technology-Based Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life	5 years
Other Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life	7 years
Trade names and licenses
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 143	$ 143

Summary of Significant Accoun_7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property and equipment
Accumulated depreciation on property and equipment	$ 2,410	$ 2,270
Depreciation expense on property and equipment	$ 299	$ 290	$ 267
Equipment | Minimum
Property and equipment
Property and equipment, estimated useful life, average	3 years
Equipment | Maximum
Property and equipment
Property and equipment, estimated useful life, average	10 years
Real property
Property and equipment
Property and equipment, estimated useful life, average	40 years

Summary of Significant Accoun_8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Earnings per common share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Numerator:
Net income									$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Less: Preferred stock dividends									148	116	116
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	$ 2,012	$ 3,438	$ 1,692
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)									347.8	362	372.8
Effect of dilutive potential common shares:
Stock options (in shares)									3.6	4.3	3.2
Restricted stock units(non-participating) and performance stock awards (in shares)									1.8	1.5	1.3
Weighted average common and dilutive potential common shares outstanding (in shares)									353.2	367.8	377.3
Earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.72	$ 1.94	$ 2.76	$ 3.62	$ 2.24	$ 1.51	$ 2.15	$ 5.78	$ 9.50	$ 4.54
Earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.68	$ 1.91	$ 2.71	$ 3.56	$ 2.21	$ 1.49	$ 2.11	$ 5.70	$ 9.35	$ 4.48
Other Earnings Per Share Disclosures
Antidilutive stock options, exercise price exceeds market price (in shares)									2	1.5	3.8

Summary of Significant Accoun_9

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Accounting standards (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Equity securities			$ 1,160
Unrealized gain	$ 910
Limited partnership interests	7,505		6,740
Unearned premiums	14,510		13,473
Deferred policy acquisition costs	4,784		4,191	$ 3,954		$ 3,861
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Equity securities	1,160		1,160
EMA limited partnerships
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Limited partnership interests	5,730		5,410
EMA limited partnerships | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Limited partnership interests			224
Retained income
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle			1,088	0	$ 1,600	0
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle			(910)	$ 0		$ 0
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Unearned premiums		$ 160
Deferred policy acquisition costs		$ 160
Limited partnership interests | Retained income | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle			$ 177
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	500
Lease, Liability	500
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 | Retained income
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle	$ 20

Summary of Significant Accou_10

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated Statement of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense									$ 22,778	$ 21,847	$ 22,160
Operating costs and expenses									5,594	5,196	4,846
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses									468	(217)	270
Restructuring and related charges									67	96	18
Total costs and expenses									37,193	34,878	34,754
Income from operations before income tax expense									2,628	4,549	2,650
Income tax expense									468	995	842
Net income									2,160	3,554	1,808
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	$ 2,012	$ 3,438	$ 1,692
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.72	$ 1.94	$ 2.76	$ 3.62	$ 2.24	$ 1.51	$ 2.15	$ 5.78	$ 9.50	$ 4.54
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.68	$ 1.91	$ 2.71	$ 3.56	$ 2.21	$ 1.49	$ 2.11	$ 5.70	$ 9.35	$ 4.48
Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense									$ 22,839	$ 21,929	$ 22,221
Operating costs and expenses									5,869	5,442	4,939
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses									0	0	0
Restructuring and related charges									83	109	30
Total costs and expenses									37,077	35,436	34,650
Income from operations before income tax expense									2,744	3,991	2,754
Income tax expense									492	802	877
Net income									2,252	3,189	1,877
Net income applicable to common shareholders									$ 2,104	$ 3,073	$ 1,761
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)									$ 6.05	$ 8.49	$ 4.72
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)									$ 5.96	$ 8.36	$ 4.67
Previously reported | Impact of change
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income applicable to common shareholders									$ 2,104	$ 3,073	$ 1,761
Restatement Adjustment | Impact of change
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense									(61)	(82)	(61)
Operating costs and expenses									(275)	(246)	(93)
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses									468	(217)	270
Restructuring and related charges									(16)	(13)	(12)
Total costs and expenses									116	(558)	104
Income from operations before income tax expense									(116)	558	(104)
Income tax expense									(24)	193	(35)
Net income									(92)	365	(69)
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (273)	$ 109	$ 41	$ 31	$ 74	$ 173	$ (1)	$ 119	$ (92)	$ 365	$ (69)
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.80)	$ 0.31	$ 0.12	$ 0.09	$ 0.21	$ 0.48	$ 0	$ 0.33	$ (0.27)	$ 1.01	$ (0.18)
Net income applicable to common shareholders earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.80)	$ 0.31	$ 0.11	$ 0.08	$ 0.21	$ 0.47	$ 0	$ 0.32	$ (0.26)	$ 0.99	$ (0.19)

Summary of Significant Accou_11

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(59)	(52)	(33)
Other comprehensive loss, after-tax	(861)	312	409
Comprehensive income	1,299	3,866	2,217
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	2,252	3,189	1,877
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(55)	47	10
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(144)	307	(104)
Other comprehensive loss, after-tax	(953)	673	339
Comprehensive income	1,299	3,862	2,216
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Restatement Adjustment | Impact of change
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	(92)	365	(69)
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	7	(2)	(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	85	(359)	71
Other comprehensive loss, after-tax	92	(361)	70
Comprehensive income	0	4	1
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accou_12

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Retained income	$ 44,033	$ 2,920	$ 41,579
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(49)		(1)
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost	169		228
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	118		1,889
Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Retained income	45,708		43,162
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(64)		(9)
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost	(1,491)		(1,347)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	(1,557)		306
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Retained income	(1,675)		(1,583)
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	15		8
Unrecognized pension and other postretirement benefit cost	1,660		1,575
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	$ 1,675		$ 1,583

Summary of Significant Accou_13

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	$ 22,551	$ 20,569
Net income	2,160	3,554	$ 1,808
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(59)	(52)	(33)
Balance, end of year	21,312	22,551	20,569
Retained income
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	41,579	39,009	37,813
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		1,088	0	$ 1,600	$ 0
Net income	2,160	3,554	1,808
Dividends on common stock	(646)	(540)	(496)
Dividends on preferred stock	(148)	(116)	(116)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle	0	(328)	0
Balance, end of year	44,033	41,579	39,009
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	1,889	1,249	840
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		(910)	0		$ 0
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(59)	(52)	(33)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle	0	328	0
Balance, end of year	118	1,889	1,249
Previously reported
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year		20,573
Net income	2,252	3,189	1,877
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(55)	47	10
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(144)	307	(104)
Balance, end of year			20,573
Previously reported | Retained income
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	43,162	40,678	39,413
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		1,088
Net income	2,252	3,189	1,877
Dividends on common stock	(646)	(540)	(496)
Dividends on preferred stock	(148)	(116)	(116)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle		(49)
Balance, end of year	45,708	43,162	40,678
Previously reported | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	306	(416)	(755)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		(910)
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(55)	47	10
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	(144)	307	(104)
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle		49
Balance, end of year	(1,557)	306	(416)
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year		(4)
Net income	(92)	365	(69)
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	0	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	7	(2)	(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	85	(359)	71
Balance, end of year			(4)
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Retained income
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	(1,583)	(1,669)	(1,600)
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		0
Net income	(92)	365	(69)
Dividends on common stock	0	0	0
Dividends on preferred stock	0	0	0
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle		(279)
Balance, end of year	(1,675)	(1,583)	(1,669)
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Increase (decrease) in equity
Balance, beginning of year	1,583	1,665	1,595
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle		0
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	0	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	7	(2)	(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	85	(359)	71
Reclassification of tax effects due to change in accounting principle		279
Balance, end of year	$ 1,675	$ 1,583	$ 1,665

Summary of Significant Accou_14

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	468	(217)	270
Income taxes	(380)	(52)	381
Other operating assets and liabilities	855	(13)	(181)
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,175	4,314	3,993
Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	2,252	3,189	1,877
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	0	0	0
Income taxes	(356)	(245)	417
Other operating assets and liabilities	1,207	328	(16)
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,175	4,314	3,993
Restatement Adjustment | Impact of change
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income	(92)	365	(69)
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	468	(217)	270
Income taxes	(24)	193	(36)
Other operating assets and liabilities	(352)	(341)	(165)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accou_15

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Reportable segments financial performance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	$ 2,012	$ 3,438	$ 1,692
Property-Liability
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									2,253	2,205	1,370
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,465	2,813	1,758
Service Businesses
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									8	(54)	5
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(79)	23	5
Allstate Life
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									295	259	251
Net income applicable to common shareholders									260	589	223
Allstate Benefits
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									124	100	103
Net income applicable to common shareholders									118	154	99
Allstate Annuities
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									131	205	102
Net income applicable to common shareholders									76	419	77
Corporate and Other
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									(406)	(320)	(293)
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(828)	(560)	(470)
Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,104	3,073	1,761
Impact of change | Previously reported
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,104	3,073	1,761
Impact of change | Previously reported | Property-Liability
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									2,097	2,012	1,220
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,341	2,587	1,661
Impact of change | Previously reported | Service Businesses
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									2	(59)	3
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(85)	15	3
Impact of change | Previously reported | Allstate Life
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									289	253	247
Net income applicable to common shareholders									254	577	219
Impact of change | Previously reported | Allstate Benefits
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									119	95	100
Net income applicable to common shareholders									113	146	96
Impact of change | Previously reported | Allstate Annuities
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									130	204	101
Net income applicable to common shareholders									75	418	76
Impact of change | Previously reported | Corporate and Other
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									(542)	(399)	(292)
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(594)	(670)	(294)
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (273)	$ 109	$ 41	$ 31	$ 74	$ 173	$ (1)	$ 119	(92)	365	(69)
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Property-Liability
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									156	193	150
Net income applicable to common shareholders									124	226	97
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Service Businesses
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									6	5	2
Net income applicable to common shareholders									6	8	2
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Allstate Life
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									6	6	4
Net income applicable to common shareholders									6	12	4
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Allstate Benefits
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									5	5	3
Net income applicable to common shareholders									5	8	3
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Allstate Annuities
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									1	1	1
Net income applicable to common shareholders									1	1	1
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment | Corporate and Other
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjusted net income (loss)									136	79	(1)
Net income applicable to common shareholders									$ (234)	$ 110	$ (176)

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Nov. 30, 2018	Oct. 05, 2018	Jan. 03, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill				$ 2,530	$ 2,181
Amortization of purchased intangible assets				105	99	$ 32
InfoArmor
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to acquire businesses		$ 525
Goodwill		318
Intangible assets		257
PlumChoice, Inc
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to acquire businesses	$ 30
Goodwill	$ 23
SquareTrade
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill			$ 1,100
Intangible assets			555
Business combination, consideration transferred			1,400
Commissions paid to retailers			66
Prepaid Expense and other assets			205
Unearned premiums			389
Deferred tax liabilities			$ 138
Amortization of purchased intangible assets				94	$ 92
Customers relationships | InfoArmor
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		225
Customers relationships | SquareTrade
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets acquired				465
Technology-Based Intangible Assets | InfoArmor
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		$ 32
Trade Names | SquareTrade
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets acquired				$ 69

Acquisitions - Amortization exp

Acquisitions - Amortization expense (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
SquareTrade
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
2019	$ 72
2020	62
2021	52
2022	42
2023	34
Thereafter	50
Total amortization	312
InfoArmor
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
2019	50
2020	44
2021	38
2022	31
2023	25
Thereafter	56
Total amortization	$ 244

Reporting Segments - Narrative

Reporting Segments - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)segmentitem	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information
Number of reportable segments | segment	7
Allstate Protection
Segment Reporting Information
Premium earned as percentage of consolidated revenues	83.00%
Number of states in which entity operates | item	50
Minimum percentage of premiums to be considered as significant	5.00%
Revenues from external customers generated outside the United States	$ 1,200	$ 1,130	$ 1,080
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Number of states in which entity operates | item	50
Minimum percentage of premiums to be considered as significant	5.00%
Consumer product protection plans | Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Insurance commissions and fees	$ 503	295	$ 0
Consumer product protection plans | Service Businesses | Non-US
Segment Reporting Information
Insurance commissions and fees	$ 61	$ 35

Reporting Segments - Reportable

Reporting Segments - Reportable segments revenue information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									$ 36,513	$ 34,678	$ 33,582
Other income									939	883	865
Net investment income									3,240	3,401	3,042
Realized capital gains and losses									(877)	445	(90)
Total revenues	$ 9,481	$ 10,465	$ 10,099	$ 9,770	$ 10,062	$ 9,888	$ 9,813	$ 9,644	39,815	39,407	37,399
Allstate Protection
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									32,950	31,433	30,727
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									0	0	0
Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									32,950	31,433	30,727
Net investment income									1,464	1,478	1,253
Realized capital gains and losses									(639)	401	(6)
Total revenues									34,513	34,015	32,662
Property-Liability | Auto
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									22,970	21,878	21,264
Property-Liability | Homeowners
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									7,517	7,310	7,257
Property-Liability | Other personal lines
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									1,808	1,750	1,700
Property-Liability | Commercial lines
Segment Reporting Information
Premiums earned									655	495	506
Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Intersegment premiums and service fees									122	110	105
Net investment income									27	16	13
Realized capital gains and losses									(11)	0	0
Total revenues									1,318	1,059	762
Service Businesses | Consumer product protection plans
Segment Reporting Information
Insurance commissions and fees									503	295	0
Service Businesses | Roadside assistance
Segment Reporting Information
Insurance commissions and fees									263	268	310
Service Businesses | Finance and insurance products
Segment Reporting Information
Insurance commissions and fees									332	304	270
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									505	489	482
Realized capital gains and losses									(14)	5	(38)
Total revenues									1,925	1,888	1,807
Allstate Life | Traditional life insurance
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									600	568	533
Allstate Life | Accident and health insurance premiums
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									2	2	2
Allstate Life | Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									713	710	715
Allstate Benefits
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									77	72	71
Realized capital gains and losses									(9)	1	(5)
Total revenues									1,203	1,157	1,077
Allstate Benefits | Traditional life insurance
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									44	42	40
Allstate Benefits | Accident and health insurance premiums
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									980	928	857
Allstate Benefits | Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									111	114	114
Allstate Annuities
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									1,096	1,305	1,181
Realized capital gains and losses									(166)	44	(38)
Total revenues									945	1,363	1,157
Allstate Annuities | Fixed annuities contract charges
Segment Reporting Information
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges									15	14	14
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									71	41	42
Realized capital gains and losses									(38)	(6)	(3)
Total revenues									33	35	39
Operating Segments | Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Other income									738	703	688
Operating Segments | Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Other income									82	66	64
Operating Segments | Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Other income									119	114	113
Intersegment Eliminations (2)
Segment Reporting Information
Total revenues									$ (122)	$ (110)	$ (105)

Reporting Segments - Reportab_2

Reporting Segments - Reportable segments financial performance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									$ 3,240	$ 3,401	$ 3,042
Goodwill impairment					$ (125)				0	(125)	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	2,012	3,438	1,692
Allstate Protection
Segment Reporting Information
Underwriting income									2,343	2,304	1,477
Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Underwriting income									2,253	2,205	1,370
Net investment income									1,464	1,478	1,253
Income tax expense on operations									(747)	(1,187)	(865)
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(500)	272	0
Gain (loss) on disposition of operations, after-tax									0	9	0
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									(5)	36	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,465	2,813	1,758
Adjusted net income (loss)									2,253	2,205	1,370
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Segment Reporting Information
Underwriting income									(90)	(99)	(107)
Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									27	16	13
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(9)	0	0
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									(4)	137	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(79)	23	5
Adjusted net income (loss)									8	(54)	5
Amortization of purchased intangible assets, after-tax									(74)	(60)	0
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									505	489	482
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(11)	2	(24)
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									(16)	338	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									260	589	223
Adjusted net income (loss)									295	259	251
DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses and valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged, after-tax									(8)	(10)	(4)
Allstate Benefits
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									77	72	71
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(7)	0	(4)
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									0	54	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									118	154	99
Adjusted net income (loss)									124	100	103
DAC and DSI amortization related to realized capital gains and losses and valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged, after-tax									1	0	0
Allstate Annuities
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									1,096	1,305	1,181
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(131)	28	(26)
Gain (loss) on disposition of operations, after-tax									4	4	3
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									69	182	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									76	419	77
Adjusted net income (loss)									131	205	102
Valuation changes on embedded derivatives that are not hedged, after-tax									3	0	(2)
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information
Net investment income									71	41	42
Realized capital gains and losses, after-tax									(30)	(4)	(2)
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses, after-tax									(370)	141	(175)
Tax Legislation (expense) benefit									(15)	(238)	0
Goodwill impairment									0	(125)	0
Business combination expenses, after-tax									(7)	(14)	0
Net income applicable to common shareholders									(828)	(560)	(470)
Adjusted net income (loss)									$ (406)	$ (320)	$ (293)

Reporting Segments - Performanc

Reporting Segments - Performance data and tax items (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	$ 5,222	$ 4,784	$ 4,550
Income tax expense	468	995	842
Allstate Protection
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	4,475	4,205	4,053
Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	463	296	214
Income tax expense	(19)	(194)	2
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	132	134	131
Income tax expense	75	(226)	94
Allstate Benefits
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	145	142	145
Income tax expense	32	1	52
Allstate Annuities
Segment Reporting Information
Amortization of DAC	7	7	7
Income tax expense	(66)	(58)	36
Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense	613	1,285	859
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense	$ (167)	$ 187	$ (201)

Reporting Segments - Impacts of

Reporting Segments - Impacts of Tax Legislation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	$ 497	$ 1,504
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	(29)	(509)
Total income tax expense	468	995	$ 842
Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	608	1,321
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	5	(36)
Total income tax expense	613	1,285	859
Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	(23)	(57)
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	4	(137)
Total income tax expense	(19)	(194)	2
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	59	112
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	16	(338)
Total income tax expense	75	(226)	94
Allstate Benefits
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	32	55
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	0	(54)
Total income tax expense	32	1	52
Allstate Annuities
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	3	124
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	(69)	(182)
Total income tax expense	(66)	(58)	36
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information
Income tax expense (benefit) before Tax Legislation	(182)	(51)
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	15	238
Total income tax expense	$ (167)	$ 187	$ (201)

Reporting Segments - Total asse

Reporting Segments - Total assets and investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	$ 112,249	$ 112,422
Investments	81,260	82,803
Property-Liability
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	61,947	60,197
Investments	43,634	43,183
Allstate Financial
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	26,798	28,836
Investments	22,336	23,722
Service Businesses
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	5,473	4,531
Investments	1,203	954
Allstate Life
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	13,613	14,107
Investments	10,809	11,210
Allstate Benefits
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	2,822	2,766
Investments	1,809	1,776
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information
Assets	1,596	1,985
Investments	$ 1,469	$ 1,958

Investments - Amortized cost,

Investments - Amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses and fair value for fixed income securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	$ 57,134	$ 57,525
Gross unrealized gains	993	1,750
Gross unrealized losses	(957)	(283)
Fixed income securities	57,170	58,992
U.S. government and agencies
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	5,386	3,580
Gross unrealized gains	137	56
Gross unrealized losses	(6)	(20)
Fixed income securities	5,517	3,616
Municipal
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	8,963	8,053
Gross unrealized gains	249	311
Gross unrealized losses	(43)	(36)
Fixed income securities	9,169	8,328
Corporate
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	40,536	42,996
Gross unrealized gains	490	1,234
Gross unrealized losses	(890)	(204)
Fixed income securities	40,136	44,026
Foreign government
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	739	1,005
Gross unrealized gains	13	27
Gross unrealized losses	(5)	(11)
Fixed income securities	747	1,021
ABS
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	1,049	1,266
Gross unrealized gains	6	13
Gross unrealized losses	(10)	(7)
Fixed income securities	1,045	1,272
RMBS
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	377	480
Gross unrealized gains	89	101
Gross unrealized losses	(2)	(3)
Fixed income securities	464	578
CMBS
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	63	124
Gross unrealized gains	8	6
Gross unrealized losses	(1)	(2)
Fixed income securities	70	128
Redeemable preferred stock
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Amortized cost	21	21
Gross unrealized gains	1	2
Gross unrealized losses	0	0
Fixed income securities	$ 22	$ 23

Investments - Scheduled maturi

Investments - Scheduled maturities for fixed Income securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Amortized cost
Due in one year or less	$ 3,344
Due after one year through five years	27,862
Due after five years through ten years	17,033
Due after ten years	7,406
Subtotal	55,645
ABS, RMBS and CMBS	1,489
Amortized cost	57,134	$ 57,525
Fair value
Due in one year or less	3,348
Due after one year through five years	27,742
Due after five years through ten years	16,773
Due after ten years	7,728
Subtotal	55,591
ABS, RMBS and CMBS	1,579
Fair value	$ 57,170	$ 58,992

Investments - Net investment i

Investments - Net investment income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	$ 3,514	$ 3,613	$ 3,213
Investment expense	(274)	(212)	(171)
Net investment income	3,240	3,401	3,042
Net investment income	(691)	0	0
Fixed income securities
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	2,077	2,078	2,060
Equity securities
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	170	174	137
Mortgage loans
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	217	206	217
Limited partnership interests
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	705	889	561
Net investment income	254
Short-term investments
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	73	30	16
Other
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	272	$ 236	$ 222
EMA limited partnerships | Limited partnership interests
Net investment income
Investment income, before expense	$ 451

Investments - Realized capital

Investments - Realized capital gains and losses by asset type (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	$ (877)	$ 445	$ (90)
Fixed income securities
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	(237)	94	(91)
Equity securities
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	(594)	255	23
Mortgage loans
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	2	1	0
Limited partnership interests
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	(101)	132	(21)
Derivatives
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	46	(46)	3
Other
Realized capital gains and losses by asset type
Realized capital gains and losses	$ 7	$ 9	$ (4)

Investments - Realized capit_2

Investments - Realized capital gains and losses by transaction type (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments [Abstract]
Impairment write-downs	$ (14)	$ (102)	$ (234)
Change in intent write-downs	0	(48)	(69)
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(14)	(150)	(303)
Sales	(215)	641	213
Valuation of equity investments	(691)	0	0
Valuation and settlements of derivative instruments	43	(46)	0
Total realized capital gains and losses	(877)	445	(90)
Fixed income and equity securities
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities
Fixed income. realized gain	120
Fixed income, realized loss	$ 347
Gross gains on sales of fixed income securities		737	631
Gross loss on sales of fixed income securities		$ 276	$ 461

Investments - Other-than-tempo

Investments - Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	$ (13)	$ (146)	$ (313)
Included in OCI	(1)	(4)	10
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(14)	(150)	(303)
Fixed income securities
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(9)	(22)	(54)
Included in OCI	(1)	(4)	10
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(10)	(26)	(44)
Municipal
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	0	(1)	0
Included in OCI	0	(3)	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	0	(4)	0
Corporate
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(4)	(9)	(33)
Included in OCI	2	3	9
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(2)	(6)	(24)
ABS
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(1)	(1)	(6)
Included in OCI	(2)	(2)	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(3)	(3)	(6)
RMBS
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(1)	(2)	0
Included in OCI	0	(3)	(1)
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(1)	(5)	(1)
CMBS
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(3)	(9)	(15)
Included in OCI	(1)	1	2
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(4)	(8)	(13)
Equity securities
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	0	(86)	(194)
Included in OCI	0	0	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	0	(86)	(194)
Mortgage loans
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	0	(1)	0
Included in OCI	0	0	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	0	(1)	0
Limited partnership interests
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(3)	(32)	(56)
Included in OCI	0	0	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(3)	(32)	(56)
Other
Other-than-temporary impairment losses by asset type
Total other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) losses	(1)	(5)	(9)
Included in OCI	0	0	0
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	$ (1)	$ (5)	$ (9)

Investments - Valuation change

Investments - Valuation changes included in net income for investments (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Debt and Equity Securities, FV-NI [Line Items]
Total	$ (12)
Equity securities
Debt and Equity Securities, FV-NI [Line Items]
Total	(261)
Limited partnership interests
Debt and Equity Securities, FV-NI [Line Items]
Total	$ 249

Investments - OTTI losses incl

Investments - OTTI losses included in AOCI at the time of impairment for fixed income securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Investments [Abstract]
Net unrealized gains related to changes in valuation of fixed income securities subsequent to impairment measurement date	$ 180	$ 208
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	(86)	(101)
Municipal
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	(5)	(5)
Corporate
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	(2)	0
ABS
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	(10)	(15)
RMBS
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	(67)	(77)
CMBS
Other-than Impairment Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Amount of other-than-temporary impairment losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income for fixed income securities, not included in earnings	$ (2)	$ (4)

Investments - Rollforward of t

Investments - Rollforward of the cumulative credit losses recognized in earnings for fixed income securities held (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Credit Losses on Fixed Income Securities
Beginning balance	$ (226)	$ (318)	$ (392)
Additional credit loss for securities previously other-than-temporarily impaired	(7)	(18)	(21)
Additional credit loss for securities not previously other-than-temporarily impaired	(3)	(8)	(23)
Reduction in credit loss for securities disposed or collected	30	116	117
Change in credit loss due to accretion of increase in cash flows	2	2	1
Ending balance	$ (204)	$ (226)	$ (318)

Investments - Unrealized net c

Investments - Unrealized net capital gains and losses included in AOCI (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair value
Fixed income securities	$ 57,170,000,000	$ 58,992,000,000
Short-term investments	3,027,000,000	1,944,000,000
Derivative instruments	0	2,000,000
Gross unrealized Gains
Fixed income securities	993,000,000	1,750,000,000
Equity securities		1,172,000,000
Short-term investments	0	0
Derivative instruments	0	2,000,000
Gross unrealized Losses
Fixed income securities	(957,000,000)	(283,000,000)
Equity securities		(12,000,000)
Short-term investments	0	0
Derivative instruments	(3,000,000)	(3,000,000)
Unrealized net gains (losses)
Fixed income securities	36,000,000	1,467,000,000
Equity securities		1,160,000,000
Short-term investments	0	0
Derivative instruments	(3,000,000)	(1,000,000)
EMA limited partnerships	0	1,000,000
Unrealized net capital gains and losses, pre-tax	33,000,000	2,627,000,000
Amounts recognized for:
Insurance reserves	0	(315,000,000)
DAC and DSI	(33,000,000)	(196,000,000)
Amounts recognized	(33,000,000)	(511,000,000)
Deferred income taxes	(2,000,000)	(454,000,000)
Total unrealized net capital gains and losses	$ (2,000,000)	1,662,000,000
Fair value of derivative instruments classified as liabilities		$ 2,000,000

Investments - Change in unreal

Investments - Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	$ (1,434)	$ 857	$ 745
Equity securities		1,160
Amounts recognized for:
Insurance reserves	315	(315)	0
DAC and DSI	163	(50)	(79)
Amounts recognized	478	(365)	(79)
Deferred income taxes	202	117	(233)
(Decrease) increase in unrealized net capital gains and losses, after-tax	(754)	609	433
EMA limited partnerships
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	(1)	5	0
Fixed income securities
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	(1,431)	204	516
Equity securities
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	0	651	233
Derivatives
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Change in unrealized net capital gains and losses	(2)	(3)	$ (4)
Accounting Standards Update 2016-01
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Equity securities	$ 1,160	$ 1,160

Investments - Continuous unrea

Investments - Continuous unrealized loss positions (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)security	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)security
U.S. government and agencies
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	11	66
Fair value	$ 55	$ 2,829
Unrealized losses	$ 0	$ (18)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	38	18
Fair value	$ 364	$ 182
Unrealized losses	(6)	(2)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (6)	$ (20)
Municipal
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	943	1,756
Fair value	$ 1,633	$ 3,143
Unrealized losses	$ (10)	$ (24)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	1,147	165
Fair value	$ 1,554	$ 349
Unrealized losses	(33)	(12)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (43)	$ (36)
Corporate
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	1,735	781
Fair value	$ 19,243	$ 11,616
Unrealized losses	$ (543)	$ (102)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	645	208
Fair value	$ 8,374	$ 3,289
Unrealized losses	(347)	(102)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (890)	$ (204)
Foreign government
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	7	45
Fair value	$ 20	$ 580
Unrealized losses	$ (1)	$ (10)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	27	5
Fair value	$ 412	$ 44
Unrealized losses	(4)	(1)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (5)	$ (11)
ABS
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	64	57
Fair value	$ 454	$ 476
Unrealized losses	$ (5)	$ (3)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	28	9
Fair value	$ 161	$ 34
Unrealized losses	(5)	(4)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (10)	$ (7)
RMBS
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	166	118
Fair value	$ 30	$ 35
Unrealized losses	$ 0	$ (1)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	195	181
Fair value	$ 52	$ 50
Unrealized losses	(2)	(2)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (2)	$ (3)
CMBS
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	3	2
Fair value	$ 7	$ 1
Unrealized losses	$ 0	$ 0
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	2	6
Fair value	$ 0	$ 23
Unrealized losses	(1)	(2)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (1)	$ (2)
Redeemable preferred stock
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	1	1
Fair value	$ 0	$ 0
Unrealized losses	$ 0	$ 0
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	0	0
Fair value	$ 0	$ 0
Unrealized losses	0	0
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ 0	$ 0
Fixed income securities
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	2,930	2,826
Fair value	$ 21,442	$ 18,680
Unrealized losses	$ (559)	$ (158)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	2,082	592
Fair value	$ 10,917	$ 3,971
Unrealized losses	(398)	(125)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	(957)	$ (283)
Equity securities
Equity securities
Number of issues | security		127
Fair value		$ 369
Unrealized losses		$ (12)
Equity securities
Number of issues | security		2
Fair value		$ 0
Unrealized losses		0
Total unrealized losses		$ (12)
Fixed income and equity securities
Equity securities
Number of issues | security		2,953
Fair value		$ 19,049
Unrealized losses		$ (170)
Equity securities
Number of issues | security		594
Fair value		$ 3,971
Unrealized losses		(125)
Total unrealized losses	$ (957)	$ (295)
Investment grade fixed income securities
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	2,348	2,706
Fair value	$ 17,485	$ 17,668
Unrealized losses	$ (331)	$ (134)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	2,021	535
Fair value	$ 10,626	$ 3,751
Unrealized losses	(360)	(98)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (691)	$ (232)
Below investment grade fixed income securities
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	582	120
Fair value	$ 3,957	$ 1,012
Unrealized losses	$ (228)	$ (24)
Fixed income securities
Number of issues | security	61	57
Fair value	$ 291	$ 220
Unrealized losses	(38)	(27)
Equity securities
Total unrealized losses	$ (266)	$ (51)

Investments - Unrealized loss

Investments - Unrealized loss and Limited partnerships (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Other details of unrealized loss
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position less than 20% of cost or amortized cost	$ 902
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position greater than or equal to 20% of cost or amortized cost	55
Limited partnership interests	7,505	$ 6,740
Fixed income and equity securities
Other details of unrealized loss
Available-for-sale securities, continuous unrealized loss position, accumulated loss	957	295
Investment grade fixed income securities
Other details of unrealized loss
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position less than 20% of cost or amortized cost	673
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position greater than or equal to 20% of cost or amortized cost	18
Equity securities
Other details of unrealized loss
Available-for-sale securities, continuous unrealized loss position, accumulated loss		12
Below investment grade fixed income securities
Other details of unrealized loss
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position less than 20% of cost or amortized cost	229
Available for sale securities, unrealized losses having loss of less than twenty percent, less than 12 months	207
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position greater than or equal to 20% of cost or amortized cost	37
Unrealized losses related to securities with unrealized loss position greater than 20% of cost or amortized cost, unrealized loss position of 12 or more consecutive months	3
EMA limited partnerships
Other details of unrealized loss
Limited partnership interests	5,730	5,410
Cost-method limited partnership interests
Other details of unrealized loss
Limited partnership interests	$ 1,780	$ 1,330

Investments - Mortgage loans (

Investments - Mortgage loans (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)loan	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Carrying value	$ 4,670	$ 4,534
Percent	100.00%	100.00%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	283
Carrying value	$ 4,670
Percent	100.00%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure | 2019
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	8
Carrying value	$ 171
Percent	3.70%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure | 2020
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	13
Carrying value	$ 119
Percent	2.60%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure | 2021
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	41
Carrying value	$ 566
Percent	12.10%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure | 2022
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	32
Carrying value	$ 553
Percent	11.80%
Mortgage loans, not in foreclosure | Thereafter
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Number of loans | loan	189
Carrying value	$ 3,261
Percent	69.80%
Apartment complex
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	34.40%	30.90%
Office buildings
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	24.50%	23.80%
Warehouse
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	15.80%	15.70%
Retail
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	14.40%	18.00%
Other
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	10.90%	11.60%
California
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	16.40%	19.90%
Texas
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	14.90%	13.00%
Illinois
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	7.80%	7.10%
New Jersey
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	6.80%	7.60%
Florida
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	6.10%	6.40%
North Carolina
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate
Percent	5.10%	4.00%

Investments - Nonimpaired and

Investments - Nonimpaired and impaired mortgage loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Total				$ 4,670	$ 4,534
Rollforward of the valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans
Fixed income securities				57,170	58,992
Mortgage loans, non-impaired
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Fixed rate mortgage loans				4,534	4,438
Variable rate mortgage loans				132	92
Total				4,666	4,530
Net carrying value of impaired mortgage loans
Impaired mortgage loans with a valuation allowance				4	4
Impaired mortgage loans without a valuation allowance				0	0
Total impaired mortgage loans				4	4
Valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans	$ 3	$ 3	$ 3	3	3
Rollforward of the valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans
Beginning balance	3	3	3
Net increase in valuation allowance	0	1	0
Charge offs	0	(1)	0
Ending balance	3	3	3
Mortgage loans, non-impaired | Below 1.0
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Fixed rate mortgage loans				6	3
Variable rate mortgage loans				31	0
Total				37	3
Mortgage loans, non-impaired | 1.0 - 1.25
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Fixed rate mortgage loans				273	345
Variable rate mortgage loans				0	0
Total				273	345
Mortgage loans, non-impaired | 1.26 - 1.50
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Fixed rate mortgage loans				1,192	1,141
Variable rate mortgage loans				0	30
Total				1,192	1,171
Mortgage loans, non-impaired | Above 1.50
Carrying value of non-impaired mortgage loans, summarized by debt service coverage ratio distribution
Fixed rate mortgage loans				3,063	2,949
Variable rate mortgage loans				101	62
Total				3,164	3,011
Mortgage loans
Average carrying value and interest income recognized on impaired mortgage loans
Average impaired mortgage loans	$ 4	$ 7	$ 6
Municipal
Rollforward of the valuation allowance on impaired mortgage loans
Fixed income securities				$ 9,169	$ 8,328

Investments - Securities loane

Investments - Securities loaned and Other (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Securities loaned
Fixed income and equity securities loaned	$ 1,400	$ 1,090
Interest Income on collateral, net of fees	4	7	$ 6
Other investment information
Other	3,852	3,972
Below investment grade assets	5,230	7,570
Fixed income securities and short-term investments deposited with regulatory authorities	147
Non-income producing fixed income securities and other investments	99
Bank loans
Other investment information
Other	1,350	1,702
Policy loans
Other investment information
Other	891	905
Real estate
Other investment information
Other	791	632
Agent loans
Other investment information
Other	620	538
Derivatives and other
Other investment information
Other	$ 200	$ 195
Shareholders' equity | Concentration of credit risk | Minimum
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of credit concentration risk of single issuer and affiliates of shareholder's equity	10.00%
Texas
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of municipal bonds carrying value	12.30%	9.60%
California
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of municipal bonds carrying value	7.40%	7.00%
Washington
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of municipal bonds carrying value	6.20%	5.40%
New York
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of municipal bonds carrying value	5.60%	6.90%
Florida
Municipal Bonds
Percentage of municipal bonds carrying value	4.90%	6.50%

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_3

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair value of assets and liabilities measured on recurring and non-recurring basis
Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests	$ 3,028	$ 3,121
Limited partnership interests
Fair value of assets and liabilities measured on recurring and non-recurring basis
Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests	$ 689
Limited partnership interests | Minimum
Fair value of assets and liabilities measured on recurring and non-recurring basis
Investment assets, useful life	10 years
Limited partnership interests | Maximum
Fair value of assets and liabilities measured on recurring and non-recurring basis
Investment assets, useful life	12 years

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_4

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Fixed income securities	$ 57,170	$ 58,992
Short-term investments	3,027	1,944
Other investments: Free-standing derivatives	1	1	$ 1
Separate account assets	2,805	3,444
Counterparty and cash collateral netting	$ (23)	$ (6)
Assets as a percent of assets measured at fair value	0.00%	0.00%
Total	$ 69,936
Liabilities
Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives			$ (3)
Counterparty and cash collateral netting	$ 6	$ 14
Liabilities as a percent of liabilities measured at fair value	(2.10%)	(3.90%)
Limited partnership interests		$ 3
U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Fixed income securities	$ 5,517	3,616
Municipal
Assets
Fixed income securities	9,169	8,328
Foreign government
Assets
Fixed income securities	747	1,021
RMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	464	578
CMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	70	128
Redeemable preferred stock
Assets
Fixed income securities	22	23
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Assets
Total assets at fair value	$ 13,594	$ 12,819
Assets as a percent of assets measured at fair value	19.90%	18.00%
Liabilities
Liabilities as a percent of liabilities measured at fair value	0.30%	0.30%
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Assets
Total assets at fair value	$ 53,889	$ 57,478
Assets as a percent of assets measured at fair value	79.10%	80.80%
Liabilities
Liabilities as a percent of liabilities measured at fair value	22.10%	23.30%
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Assets
Total assets at fair value	$ 697	$ 840
Assets as a percent of assets measured at fair value	1.00%	1.20%
Liabilities
Liabilities as a percent of liabilities measured at fair value	79.70%	80.30%
Investments reported at NAV
Assets
Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient	$ 1,779
Recurring
Assets
Counterparty and cash collateral netting	(23)	$ (6)
Liabilities
Counterparty and cash collateral netting	6	14
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Assets
Fixed income securities	5,085	3,079
Equity securities	4,364	6,032
Short-term investments	1,338	264
Other investments: Free-standing derivatives	0	0
Separate account assets	2,805	3,444
Other assets	2
Total assets at fair value		12,819
Liabilities
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts	0	0
Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives	(1)	(1)
Total liabilities at fair value	(1)	(1)
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Fixed income securities	5,085	3,079
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Municipal
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Corporate - public
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Corporate - privately placed
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Foreign government
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | ABS - CDO
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | ABS - consumer and other
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | RMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | CMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Assets
Fixed income securities	51,760	55,307
Equity securities	331	379
Short-term investments	1,659	1,660
Other investments: Free-standing derivatives	139	132
Separate account assets	0	0
Other assets	0
Total assets at fair value		57,478
Liabilities
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts	0	0
Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives	(62)	(83)
Total liabilities at fair value	(62)	(83)
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Fixed income securities	432	537
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Municipal
Assets
Fixed income securities	9,099	8,227
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Corporate - public
Assets
Fixed income securities	29,200	31,963
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Corporate - privately placed
Assets
Fixed income securities	10,776	11,731
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Foreign government
Assets
Fixed income securities	747	1,021
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | ABS - CDO
Assets
Fixed income securities	263	480
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | ABS - consumer and other
Assets
Fixed income securities	713	645
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | RMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	464	578
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | CMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	44	102
Recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets
Fixed income securities	22	23
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Assets
Fixed income securities	325	606
Equity securities	341	210
Short-term investments	30	20
Other investments: Free-standing derivatives	1	1
Separate account assets	0	0
Other assets	0
Total assets at fair value		837
Liabilities
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts	(224)	(286)
Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives	0	0
Total liabilities at fair value	(224)	(286)
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Municipal
Assets
Fixed income securities	70	101
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Corporate - public
Assets
Fixed income securities	70	108
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Corporate - privately placed
Assets
Fixed income securities	90	224
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Foreign government
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | ABS - CDO
Assets
Fixed income securities	6	99
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | ABS - consumer and other
Assets
Fixed income securities	63	48
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | RMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | CMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	26	26
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets
Fixed income securities	0	0
Non-recurring | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Assets
Total assets at fair value		0
Non-recurring | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Assets
Total assets at fair value		0
Non-recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Assets
Total assets at fair value		3
Fair value
Assets
Total assets at fair value	$ 68,157	$ 71,131
Assets as a percent of assets measured at fair value	100.00%	100.00%
Liabilities
Liabilities as a percent of liabilities measured at fair value	100.00%	100.00%
Fair value | Recurring
Assets
Fixed income securities	$ 57,170	$ 58,992
Equity securities	5,036	6,621
Short-term investments	3,027	1,944
Other investments: Free-standing derivatives	117	127
Separate account assets	2,805	3,444
Other assets	2
Total assets at fair value		71,128
Liabilities
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts	(224)	(286)
Other liabilities: Free-standing derivatives	(57)	(70)
Total liabilities at fair value	(281)	(356)
Fair value | Recurring | U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Fixed income securities	5,517	3,616
Fair value | Recurring | Municipal
Assets
Fixed income securities	9,169	8,328
Fair value | Recurring | Corporate - public
Assets
Fixed income securities	29,270	32,071
Fair value | Recurring | Corporate - privately placed
Assets
Fixed income securities	10,866	11,955
Fair value | Recurring | Foreign government
Assets
Fixed income securities	747	1,021
Fair value | Recurring | ABS - CDO
Assets
Fixed income securities	269	579
Fair value | Recurring | ABS - consumer and other
Assets
Fixed income securities	776	693
Fair value | Recurring | RMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	464	578
Fair value | Recurring | CMBS
Assets
Fixed income securities	70	128
Fair value | Recurring | Redeemable preferred stock
Assets
Fixed income securities	$ 22	23
Fair value | Non-recurring
Assets
Total assets at fair value		$ 3

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_5

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Quantitative information about Level 3 instruments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Fixed income securities	$ 57,170	$ 58,992
Fixed income securities - non-binding broker quotes
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Assets, fair value disclosure	105	271
Municipal - not rated by third party credit rating agencies
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Assets, fair value disclosure	44	58
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Assets, fair value disclosure	697	840
Recurring | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Fixed income securities	325	606
Assets, fair value disclosure		837
Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts - Equity-indexed and forward starting options | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Fair value	$ (185)	$ (252)
Projected option cost | Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts - Equity-indexed and forward starting options | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Weighted Average
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Embedded Derivative Asset (Liability) Net, Measurement Input	0.0174	0.0174
Projected option cost | Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts - Equity-indexed and forward starting options | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Minimum
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Embedded Derivative Asset (Liability) Net, Measurement Input	0.010	0.010
Projected option cost | Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts - Equity-indexed and forward starting options | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Maximum
Quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs
Embedded Derivative Asset (Liability) Net, Measurement Input	0.022	0.022

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_6

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Rollforward of level 3 assets and liabilities held at fair value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	$ 837	$ 735	$ 973
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	37	22	3
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	(6)	15	23
Transfers into Level 3	79	94	76
Transfers out of Level 3	(325)	(369)	(559)
Purchases	367	533	410
Sales	(208)	(113)	(79)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(84)	(80)	(112)
Balance at end of period	697	837	735
Liabilities
Balance at beginning of period	(286)	(290)	(299)
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	(58)	0	(5)
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0	0
Purchases	0	0	0
Sales	0	0	0
Issues	(2)	(2)	(3)
Settlements	6	6	7
Balance at end of period	(224)	(286)	(290)
Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis, gain (loss) included in earnings
Gain (loss) included in earnings	95	22	8
Free-standing derivatives, assets	1	1	1
Free-standing derivatives, liabilities			3
Assets transferred between Level 1 and Level 2	0	0	0
Liabilities transferred between Level 1 and Level 2	0	0	0
Realized capital gains (losses)
Assets
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	37	4	(9)
Net investment income
Assets
Total gains (losses) included in: net income		19	12
Interest credited to contractholder funds
Assets
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	63	(10)	(4)
Life and annuity contract benefits
Assets
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	(5)	9	9
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts
Liabilities
Balance at beginning of period	(286)	(290)	(299)
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	(58)	0	(5)
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0	0
Purchases	0	0	0
Sales	0	0	0
Issues	(2)	(2)	(3)
Settlements	6	6	7
Balance at end of period	(224)	(286)	(290)
U.S. government and agencies
Assets
Balance at beginning of period		0	5
Total gains (losses) included in: net income			0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI			0
Transfers into Level 3			0
Transfers out of Level 3			(4)
Purchases			0
Sales			0
Issues			0
Settlements			(1)
Balance at end of period			0
Municipal
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	101	125	161
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	1	(1)	12
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	(2)	7	(10)
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	6
Transfers out of Level 3	(26)	(6)	(23)
Purchases	10	8	22
Sales	(8)	(29)	(40)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(6)	(3)	(3)
Balance at end of period	70	101	125
Corporate - public
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	108	78	46
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	0	0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	(3)	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	17	4	41
Transfers out of Level 3	(21)	(30)	(43)
Purchases	10	60	47
Sales	(38)	0	(11)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(3)	(4)	(2)
Balance at end of period	70	108	78
Corporate - privately placed
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	224	263	502
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	(1)	8	15
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	(3)	(2)	18
Transfers into Level 3	20	30	16
Transfers out of Level 3	(119)	(49)	(398)
Purchases	22	44	181
Sales	(5)	(30)	(15)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(48)	(40)	(56)
Balance at end of period	90	224	263
ABS - CDO
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	99	27	61
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	0	1
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	1	6	6
Transfers into Level 3	20	60	10
Transfers out of Level 3	(109)	(190)	(43)
Purchases	0	219	40
Sales	0	0	(3)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(5)	(23)	(45)
Balance at end of period	6	99	27
ABS - consumer and other
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	48	42	50
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	0	0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	1	0	(3)
Transfers into Level 3	22	0	3
Transfers out of Level 3	(50)	(90)	(35)
Purchases	160	103	35
Sales	(97)	0	(5)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(21)	(7)	(3)
Balance at end of period	63	48	42
RMBS
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	0	1	1
Total gains (losses) included in: net income		0	1
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI		0	0
Transfers into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		0	0
Purchases		0	0
Sales		0	(1)
Issues		0	0
Settlements		(1)	0
Balance at end of period		0	1
CMBS
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	26	22	20
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	0	0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0	(1)
Purchases	1	6	5
Sales	0	0	0
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(1)	(2)	(2)
Balance at end of period	26	26	22
Fixed income securities
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	606	558	846
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	7	29
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	(6)	11	11
Transfers into Level 3	79	94	76
Transfers out of Level 3	(325)	(365)	(547)
Purchases	203	440	330
Sales	(148)	(59)	(75)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	(84)	(80)	(112)
Balance at end of period	325	606	558
Equity securities
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	210	163	133
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	37	13	(32)
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	4	12
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	(4)	(12)
Purchases	109	48	65
Sales	(15)	(14)	(4)
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	0	0	1
Balance at end of period	341	210	163
Short-term investments
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	20	15	0
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	0	0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0	0
Purchases	55	45	15
Sales	(45)	(40)	0
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	0	0	0
Balance at end of period	30	20	15
Free-standing derivatives, net
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	1	(2)	(7)
Total gains (losses) included in: net income	0	3	6
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI	0	0	0
Transfers into Level 3	0	0	0
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0	0
Purchases	0	0	0
Sales	0	0	0
Issues	0	0	0
Settlements	0	0	(1)
Balance at end of period	1	1	(2)
Other assets
Assets
Balance at beginning of period	$ 0	1	1
Total gains (losses) included in: net income		(1)	0
Total gains (losses) included in: OCI		0	0
Transfers into Level 3		0	0
Transfers out of Level 3		0	0
Purchases		0	0
Sales		0	0
Issues		0	0
Settlements		0	0
Balance at end of period		$ 0	$ 1

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_7

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Change in level 3 assets and liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	$ 36	$ 10	$ (23)
Gains (losses) for Level 3 liabilities still held at the balance sheet date, included in earnings	58	0	5
Gains (losses) for Level 3 assets and liabilities still held at the balance sheet date, included in earnings	94	10	(18)
Realized capital gains (losses)
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Gains (losses) for Level 3 assets still held at the balance sheet date	36	(8)	(36)
Net investment income
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Gains (losses) for Level 3 assets still held at the balance sheet date		19	13
Interest credited to contractholder funds
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Gains (losses) for Level 3 assets still held at the balance sheet date	63	(10)	(4)
Life and annuity contract benefits
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Gains (losses) for Level 3 assets still held at the balance sheet date	(5)	9	9
Contractholder funds: Derivatives embedded in life and annuity contracts
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Gains (losses) for Level 3 liabilities still held at the balance sheet date, included in earnings	58	0	5
Municipal
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	0	(3)	2
Corporate
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	0	1	2
Fixed income securities
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	0	(2)	4
Equity securities
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	36	13	(32)
Free-standing derivatives, net
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	0	0	5
Other assets
Gains (losses) included in net income for Level 3 assets and liabilities:
Fair value assets measured on recurring basis, change in unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings	$ 0	$ (1)	$ 0

Fair Value of Assets and Liab_8

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities - Carrying values and fair value estimates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Financial assets
Mortgage loans	$ 4,670	$ 4,534
Financial liabilities
Long-term debt	6,451	6,350
Liability for collateral	1,458	1,124	$ 1,129	$ 840
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Carrying value
Financial liabilities
Long-term debt	6,451	6,350
Liability for collateral	1,458	1,124
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Fair value
Financial liabilities
Long-term debt	6,708	7,199
Liability for collateral	1,458	1,124
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Carrying value
Financial assets
Mortgage loans	4,670	4,534
Bank loans	1,350	1,702
Agent loans	620	538
Financial liabilities
Contractholder funds on investment contracts	9,250	10,367
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Fair value
Financial assets
Mortgage loans	4,703	4,732
Bank loans	1,298	1,704
Agent loans	617	536
Financial liabilities
Contractholder funds on investment contracts	$ 9,665	$ 11,071

Derivative Financial Instrume_3

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - Summary of the volume and fair value positions (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)contract
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Assumed recoveries under sale of credit protection	$ 0
Cash and securities pledged in the form of margin deposits	277
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	470	$ 255
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	2,675	3,133
Total derivatives, Notional amount	$ 3,145	$ 3,388
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	13,914	6,605
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	12,256	7,128
Total derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	26,170	13,733
Net amount on balance sheet	$ 124	$ 126
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	130	127
Asset derivatives, gross liability	(6)	(1)
Net amount on balance sheet	(269)	(363)
Total derivatives, Fair value, net	(145)	(237)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	12	6
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(281)	(369)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount		$ 3,114
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract		7,128
Net amount on balance sheet		$ (365)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset		4
Liability derivatives, Gross liability		(369)
Foreign currency swap agreements | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount		19
Net amount on balance sheet		2
Liability derivatives, Gross asset		2
Liability derivatives, Gross liability		0
Interest rate cap agreements | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	6	15
Net amount on balance sheet	0	0
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	0	0
Interest rate cap agreements | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	31	30
Net amount on balance sheet	1	1
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	1	1
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	0	0
Futures | Other assets | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	$ 0
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	1,330
Net amount on balance sheet	$ 1
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	1
Asset derivatives, gross liability	0
Futures | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	$ 0
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	1,300
Net amount on balance sheet	$ (1)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(1)
Options | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	$ 0	$ 0
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	11,131	6,316
Net amount on balance sheet	$ 115	$ 125
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	115	125
Asset derivatives, gross liability	0	0
Futures | Other assets | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	$ 0	$ 0
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	1,453	289
Net amount on balance sheet	$ 1	$ 0
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	1	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	0	0
Total return swap agreements - fixed income | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	7
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	$ 38
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	0
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	0
Net amount on balance sheet	$ 0
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	0
Net amount on balance sheet	(1)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(1)
Total return swap agreements - equity index | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	61
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	$ 71
Total asset derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	0
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	0
Net amount on balance sheet	$ (2)
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	(2)
Net amount on balance sheet	(4)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(4)
Options and futures | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	$ 0	$ 0
Total liability derivatives, Number of contracts | contract	10,956	7,128
Net amount on balance sheet	$ (50)	$ (58)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(50)	(58)
Foreign currency forwards | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	258	52
Net amount on balance sheet	10	1
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	11	1
Asset derivatives, gross liability	(1)	0
Foreign currency forwards | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	341	650
Net amount on balance sheet	10	(17)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	11	3
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(1)	(20)
Guaranteed accumulation benefits | Contractholder funds | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	169	225
Net amount on balance sheet	(25)	(22)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(25)	(22)
Guaranteed withdrawal benefits | Contractholder funds | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	210	274
Net amount on balance sheet	(14)	(12)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(14)	(12)
Equity-indexed and forward starting options in life and annuity product contracts | Contractholder funds | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	1,770	1,774
Net amount on balance sheet	(185)	(252)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	(185)	(252)
Credit default swaps – buying protection | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	136	105
Net amount on balance sheet	(1)	(1)
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	2	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	(3)	(1)
Credit default swaps – buying protection | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	40	136
Net amount on balance sheet	0	(5)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	0	(5)
Credit default swaps – selling protection | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount		80
Net amount on balance sheet		1
Asset derivatives, Gross asset		1
Asset derivatives, gross liability		0
Credit default swaps – selling protection | Other liabilities & accrued expenses | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total liability derivatives, Notional amount	5	25
Net amount on balance sheet	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	0	0
Liability derivatives, Gross liability	0	0
Other | Other investments | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount	2
Net amount on balance sheet	0
Asset derivatives, Gross asset	0
Asset derivatives, gross liability	$ 0
Other | Other assets | Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value
Total asset derivatives, Notional amount		3
Net amount on balance sheet		0
Asset derivatives, Gross asset		0
Asset derivatives, gross liability		$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume_4

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - Gross and net amounts for OTC derivatives (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Asset derivatives
Gross amount	$ 130	$ 127
Derivative asset, fair value, gross liability	(6)	(1)
Net amount on balance sheet	124	126
Liability derivatives
Gross amount	(281)	(369)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	12	6
Net amount on balance sheet	(269)	(363)
OTC derivatives
Asset derivatives
Gross amount	25	8
Derivative asset, fair value, gross liability	(18)	(7)
Derivative asset offsets under cash collateral pledged	(5)	1
Net amount on balance sheet	2	2
Securities collateral (received) pledged	0	0
Net amount	2	2
Liability derivatives
Gross amount	(12)	(26)
Liability derivatives, Gross asset	18	7
Derivative liability offsets under cash collateral pledged	(12)	7
Net amount on balance sheet	(6)	(12)
Securities collateral (received) pledged	0	3
Net amount	$ (6)	$ (9)

Derivative Financial Instrume_5

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - Cash Flow Hedges (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivatives during the period	$ 1,000,000	$ (2,000,000)	$ 0
(Loss) gain recognized in OCI on derivatives during the term of the hedging relationship	(3,000,000)	(1,000,000)	2,000,000
Cash flow hedge gain to be reclassified from AOCI during the next twelve months	1,000,000
Net gain (loss) recognized in earnings during the reporting period representing the amount of the fair value of the hedges' ineffectiveness.	0	0	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Cash flow hedges | Net investment income
Derivative [Line Items]
Investment Income, Net	0	1,000,000	1,000,000
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Cash flow hedges | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative [Line Items]
Investment Income, Net	$ 3,000,000	$ 0	$ 3,000,000

Derivative Financial Instrume_6

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	$ 59	$ 38	$ 11
Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	43	(46)	0
Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(5)	9	9
Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	43	41	18
Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(22)	34	(16)
Interest rate contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(2)
Interest rate contracts | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(2)
Interest rate contracts | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Interest rate contracts | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Interest rate contracts | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Equity and index contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(24)	60	25
Equity and index contracts | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	21	(15)	(12)
Equity and index contracts | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Equity and index contracts | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(24)	47	18
Equity and index contracts | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(21)	28	19
Embedded derivative financial instruments
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	62	3	9
Embedded derivative financial instruments | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Embedded derivative financial instruments | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(5)	9	9
Embedded derivative financial instruments | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	67	(6)	0
Embedded derivative financial instruments | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Foreign currency contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	28	(21)	(18)
Foreign currency contracts | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	29	(27)	17
Foreign currency contracts | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Foreign currency contracts | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Foreign currency contracts | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(1)	6	(35)
Credit default contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	2	(4)	(5)
Credit default contracts | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	2	(4)	(5)
Credit default contracts | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Credit default contracts | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	0	0
Credit default contracts | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0	$ 0	$ 0
Total return swap agreements - equity index
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(1)
Total return swap agreements - equity index | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(6)
Total return swap agreements - equity index | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Total return swap agreements - equity index | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Total return swap agreements - equity index | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Total return swap agreements - fixed income
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(6)
Total return swap agreements - fixed income | Realized capital gains (losses)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	(1)
Total return swap agreements - fixed income | Life and annuity contract benefits
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Total return swap agreements - fixed income | Interest credited to contractholder funds
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	0
Total return swap agreements - fixed income | Operating costs and expenses
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedging instruments, total gain (loss) recognized in net income on derivatives	$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume_7

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - OTC derivatives counterparty credit exposure (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)counter-party	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)counter-party
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Cash and securities pledged as collateral by counterparties	$ 21
Securities pledged as collateral to counterparties	4
Collateral posted under MNAs, credit-risk-contingent provisions in a liability position	2	$ 6
Collateral already posted, aggregate fair value, without credit-risk-contingent features	$ 2
Credit Derivatives
Number of counter-parties | counter-party	5	4
Notional amount	$ 764	$ 108
Credit exposure	20	4
Exposure, net of collateral	1	1
Gross liability fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features	11	28
Gross asset fair value of contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features and subject to MNAs	(5)	(17)
Collateral posted under MNAs for contracts containing credit-risk-contingent features	(2)	(6)
Maximum amount of additional exposure for contracts with credit-risk-contingent features if all features were triggered concurrently	$ 4	$ 5
AA–
Credit Derivatives
Number of counter-parties | counter-party	0	1
Notional amount	$ 0	$ 18
Credit exposure	0	1
Exposure, net of collateral	$ 0	$ 0
A plus
Credit Derivatives
Number of counter-parties | counter-party	3	3
Notional amount	$ 643	$ 90
Credit exposure	19	3
Exposure, net of collateral	$ 1	$ 1
A
Credit Derivatives
Number of counter-parties | counter-party	2	0
Notional amount	$ 121	$ 0
Credit exposure	1	0
Exposure, net of collateral	$ 0	$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume_8

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - CDS notional amounts by credit rating (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)entity	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Term of credit default swaps	5 years
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	$ 3,145	$ 3,388
The number of reference entities generally included in a CDX index | entity	125
Credit default contracts
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	$ 5	105
Fair value	0	1
Credit default contracts | Single name | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	5	25
Fair value	0	0
Credit default contracts | Index | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount		80
Fair value		1
AA | Credit default contracts
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	1
AA | Credit default contracts | Single name | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	0
AA | Credit default contracts | Index | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount		1
A | Credit default contracts
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	29
A | Credit default contracts | Single name | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	10
A | Credit default contracts | Index | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount		19
BBB | Credit default contracts
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	55
BBB | Credit default contracts | Single name | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	0	10
BBB | Credit default contracts | Index | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount		45
BB and lower | Credit default contracts
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	5	20
BB and lower | Credit default contracts | Single name | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount	$ 5	5
BB and lower | Credit default contracts | Index | Corporate
Credit Derivatives
Notional amount		$ 15

Derivative Financial Instrume_9

Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments - Off balance sheet financial instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Financial Instruments and Off-balance sheet Financial Instruments
Commitments to invest in limited partnership interests	$ 3,028	$ 3,121
Private placement commitments	47	96
Other loan commitments	$ 233	$ 97

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_3

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Rollforward of reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Activity in the reserve for property-liability insurance claims and claims expense:
Balance as of January 1	$ 26,325	$ 25,250	$ 23,869
Less recoverables	(6,471)	(6,184)	(5,892)
Net balance as of January 1	19,854	19,066	17,977
Incurred claims and claims expense related to:
Current year	23,033	22,350	22,177
Prior years	(255)	(503)	(17)
Total incurred	22,778	21,847	22,160
Claims and claims expense paid related to:
Current year	(14,877)	(14,112)	(14,161)
Prior years	(7,487)	(6,964)	(6,910)
Total paid	(22,364)	(21,076)	(21,071)
Net balance as of December 31	20,268	19,854	19,066
Plus recoverables	(7,155)	(6,471)	(6,184)
Balance as of December 31	27,423	26,325	25,250
SquareTrade
Incurred claims and claims expense related to:
SquareTrade acquisition as of January 3, 2017	$ 0	$ 17	$ 0

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_4

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Reconciliation of total claims and claims expense incurred and paid by coverage (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	$ 22,778	$ 21,847	$ 22,160
Paid	(22,364)	$ (21,076)	$ (21,071)
Claims incurred and paid from before 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	(68)
Paid	(398)
Auto insurance - liability coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	8,413
Paid	(7,535)
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	5,088
Paid	(5,134)
Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	4,817
Paid	(4,714)
Auto and Homeowners Insurance
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	18,318
Paid	(17,383)
Other personal lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	1,081
Paid	(1,055)
Commercial lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	545
Paid	(369)
Service Businesses
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	313
Paid	(325)
Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”)
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	2,479
Paid	(2,574)
Other
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	37
Paid	(169)
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred	73
Paid	$ (91)

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_5

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Incurred and claims expense narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	$ 22,778	$ 21,847	$ 22,160
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	255	503	17
Auto
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	(455)	490	155
Commercial lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	545
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	(108)
Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	4,817
Other personal lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	1,081
Catastrophes
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	2,860	3,230	2,570
Catastrophe loss reestimates
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	(25)	18	(6)
Catastrophe loss reestimates | Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves			24
Reserve reestimates | Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	(14)	131
Reserve reestimates | Other personal lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	9	(22)	(57)
Reserve reestimates | Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Net increase (decrease) to reserves	(87)	$ (96)	$ (105)
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Losses from catastrophes, net of recoveries	$ 73

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_6

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of reinsurance (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)claim	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 20,268
Auto insurance - liability coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	42,043
Prior year reserve reestimates	(293)
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(329)
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	30,122
All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables	1,259
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	13,180
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Accident Year 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	7,661	$ 7,727	$ 7,797	$ 7,833	$ 7,727
Prior year reserve reestimates	(66)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 471
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	2,195,241
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 7,190	6,813	6,247	5,308	3,168
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Accident Year 2015
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	8,596	8,656	8,711	8,741
Prior year reserve reestimates	(60)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 1,044
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	2,382,914
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 7,552	6,872	5,828	3,518
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Accident Year 2016
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	8,711	8,811	9,007
Prior year reserve reestimates	(100)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 1,873
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	2,396,876
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 6,838	5,759	3,479
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Accident Year 2017
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	8,369	8,436
Prior year reserve reestimates	(67)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 3,049
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	2,204,093
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 5,320	3,143
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Accident Year 2018
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	8,706
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 5,484
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	2,075,655
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 3,222
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”)
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	8
Auto insurance - liability coverage | Claims incurred and paid from before 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(43)
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	24,168
Prior year reserve reestimates	(119)
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(126)
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	23,906
All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables	9
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	271
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Accident Year 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	4,260	4,261	4,258	4,284	4,296
Prior year reserve reestimates	(1)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 3
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	4,144,633
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 4,257	4,258	4,261	4,269	4,137
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Accident Year 2015
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	4,654	4,663	4,675	4,646
Prior year reserve reestimates	(9)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 6
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	4,389,912
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 4,648	4,652	4,665	4,501
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Accident Year 2016
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	5,018	5,045	5,118
Prior year reserve reestimates	(27)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 6
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	4,430,776
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 5,012	5,024	4,881
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Accident Year 2017
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	5,029	5,111
Prior year reserve reestimates	(82)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 1
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	4,232,605
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 5,029	4,838
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Accident Year 2018
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	5,207
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 246
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	4,150,524
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 4,960
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”)
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(5)
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage | Claims incurred and paid from before 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(3)
Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	20,430
Prior year reserve reestimates	78
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	14
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	18,526
All outstanding liabilities before 2014, net of recoverables	140
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	2,044
Homeowners | Accident Year 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	3,599	3,609	3,640	3,636	3,589
Prior year reserve reestimates	(10)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 52
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	765,329
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 3,547	3,524	3,472	3,356	$ 2,729
Homeowners | Accident Year 2015
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	3,532	3,548	3,607	3,553
Prior year reserve reestimates	(16)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 79
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	720,955
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 3,453	3,394	3,291	$ 2,583
Homeowners | Accident Year 2016
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	3,949	3,987	3,952
Prior year reserve reestimates	(38)
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 147
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	812,785
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 3,802	3,672	$ 2,942
Homeowners | Accident Year 2017
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	4,611	4,469
Prior year reserve reestimates	142
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 370
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	902,301
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 4,241	$ 3,222
Homeowners | Accident Year 2018
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Incurred claims and allocated claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	4,739
IBNR reserves plus expected development on reported claims	$ 1,256
Cumulative number of reported claims | claim	743,408
Cumulative paid claims and allocated claims adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	$ 3,483
Homeowners | Unallocated loss adjustment expenses (“ULAE”)
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(50)
Homeowners | Claims incurred and paid from before 2014
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(23)
Other personal lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	1,356
Commercial lines
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	766
Service Businesses
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	50
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Liabilities for claims and claim adjustment expenses, net of recoverables	1,315
Other | Auto insurance - liability coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	(1)
Other | Auto insurance - physical damage coverage
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	1
Other | Homeowners
Increase (decrease) in claims and claims expense
Prior Year Reserve Estimates	$ 9

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_7

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Average annual percentage payout of incurred claims by age, net of reinsurance (Details)	Dec. 31, 2018
Auto
Claims Development [Line Items]
1 year	40.20%
2 years	27.30%
3 years	12.60%
4 years	8.00%
5 years	4.70%
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage
Claims Development [Line Items]
1 year	96.90%
2 years	3.10%
3 years	(0.20%)
4 years	0.00%
5 years	0.00%
Homeowners
Claims Development [Line Items]
1 year	74.70%
2 years	18.80%
3 years	2.90%
4 years	1.40%
5 years	0.70%

Reserve for Property-Liabilit_8

Reserve for Property-Liability Insurance Claims and Claims Expense - Reconciliation of the net incurred and paid claims development (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	$ 20,268
ULAE	1,286
Recoverables	7,155
ULAE	109
Gross reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense	27,423	$ 26,325	$ 25,250	$ 23,869
Reserves for asbestos claims	866	884
Reinsurance recoverables for asbestos claims	400	412
Reserves for environmental claims	170	166
Reinsurance recoverables for environmental claims	39	$ 33
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	1,315
Recoverables	473
Gross reserve for property and casualty insurance claims and claims expense	693
Auto insurance - liability coverage
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	13,180
Recoverables	5,829
Auto insurance - physical damage coverage
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	271
Recoverables	12
Homeowners insurance
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	2,044
Recoverables	472
Other personal lines
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	1,356
Recoverables	195
Commercial lines
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	766
Recoverables	53
Service Businesses
Claims Development [Line Items]
Net outstanding liabilities	50
Recoverables	$ 12

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_3

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds - Reserve for life-contingent contract benefits (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 12,208,000,000	$ 12,549,000,000
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Premium deficiency reserve	0	(315,000,000)
Unrealized net capital gains and losses		249,000,000
Structured settlement annuities
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 6,701,000,000	6,994,000,000
Structured settlement annuities | Minimum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	2.90%
Structured settlement annuities | Maximum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	9.00%
Other immediate fixed annuities
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 1,714,000,000	1,855,000,000
Other immediate fixed annuities | Minimum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	0.00%
Other immediate fixed annuities | Maximum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	11.50%
Traditional life insurance
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 2,808,000,000	2,722,000,000
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Premium deficiency reserve		315,000,000
Traditional life insurance | Minimum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	2.50%
Traditional life insurance | Maximum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	11.30%
Accident and health insurance
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 876,000,000	893,000,000
Accident and health insurance | Minimum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	3.00%
Accident and health insurance | Maximum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	7.00%
Other
Reserve for life-contingent benefits:
Total reserve for life-contingent contract benefits	$ 109,000,000	$ 85,000,000
Other | Minimum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	2.00%
Other | Maximum
Key assumptions generally used in calculating the reserve for life-contingent contract benefits:
Life contingent contract benefits, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	5.80%

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_4

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds - Key assumptions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Total contractholder funds	$ 18,371	$ 19,434	$ 20,260	$ 21,295
Interest-sensitive life insurance contract charges
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Period for withdrawal or surrender charges	20 years
Total contractholder funds	$ 8,229	8,190
Equity-indexed life insurance | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	0.00%
Equity-indexed life insurance | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	10.50%
Other life insurance | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	1.00%
Other life insurance | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	6.00%
Fixed annuities contract charges
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Percent of fixed annuities subject to market value adjustment for discretionary withdrawals	13.50%
Total contractholder funds	$ 9,681	10,828
Immediate Fixed Annuities | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	0.00%
Immediate Fixed Annuities | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	9.80%
Equity-indexed fixed annuities | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	(8.00%)
Equity-indexed fixed annuities | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	10.80%
Other fixed annuities | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	0.10%
Other fixed annuities | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	6.00%
Other investment contracts
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Total contractholder funds	$ 461	$ 416
Other investment contracts | Minimum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	1.70%
Other investment contracts | Maximum
Key contract provisions relating to contractholder funds:
Contractholder funds, interest rate assumptions (as a percent)	10.30%

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_5

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds - Contractholder funds activity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Contractholder funds activity
Balance, beginning of year	$ 19,434	$ 20,260	$ 21,295
Deposits	1,109	1,130	1,164
Interest credited	650	687	722
Benefits	(844)	(901)	(966)
Surrenders and partial withdrawals	(1,135)	(999)	(1,053)
Maturities of and interest payments on institutional products	0	0	(86)
Contract charges	(824)	(826)	(829)
Net transfers from separate accounts	6	5	5
Other adjustments	(25)	78	8
Balance, end of year	$ 18,371	$ 19,434	$ 20,260

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_6

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds - Variable annuity contracts with guarantees (Details) - Variable annuities - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees
Account balances of separate accounts with guarantees, invested in equity, fixed income and balanced mutual funds	$ 2,470	$ 3,020
Account balances of separate accounts with guarantees, invested in money market mutual funds	245	322
In the event of death
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees
Separate account value	2,711	3,344
Net amount at risk	$ 605	$ 454
Average attained age of contractholders	71 years	70 years
At annuitization (includes income benefit guarantees)
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees
Separate account value	$ 778	$ 944
Net amount at risk	264	202
For cumulative periodic withdrawals
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees
Separate account value	190	253
Net amount at risk	16	10
Accumulation at specified dates
Variable annuity contracts with guarantees
Separate account value	129	170
Net amount at risk	$ 26	$ 17
Weighted average waiting period until guarantee date	4 years	5 years

Reserve for Life-Contingent C_7

Reserve for Life-Contingent Contract Benefits and Contractholder Funds - Summary of liabilities for guarantees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 370	$ 365
Less reinsurance recoverables	146	184
Net balance at beginning of period	224	181
Incurred guarantee benefits	37	45
Paid guarantee benefits	(2)	(2)
Net change	35	43
Net balance at end of period	259	224
Plus reinsurance recoverables	185	146
Balance at end of period	444	370
In the event of death | Variable annuities
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	85	100
Balance at end of period	109	85
At annuitization (includes income benefit guarantees) | Variable annuities
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	26	40
Balance at end of period	36	26
Accumulation at specified dates | Variable annuities
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	22	34
Balance at end of period	25	22
For cumulative periodic withdrawals | Variable annuities
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	12	9
Balance at end of period	14	12
Other Guarantees | Variable annuities
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	225	182
Balance at end of period	260	225
Liability for guarantees related to death benefits and interest-sensitive life products
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	262	244
Less reinsurance recoverables	87	101
Net balance at beginning of period	175	143
Incurred guarantee benefits	24	34
Paid guarantee benefits	(2)	(2)
Net change	22	32
Net balance at end of period	197	175
Plus reinsurance recoverables	111	87
Balance at end of period	308	262
At annuitization (includes income benefit guarantees)
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	29	44
Less reinsurance recoverables	25	40
Net balance at beginning of period	4	4
Incurred guarantee benefits	0	0
Paid guarantee benefits	0	0
Net change	0	0
Net balance at end of period	4	4
Plus reinsurance recoverables	35	25
Balance at end of period	39	29
Liability for guarantees related to accumulation and withdrawal benefits
Movement in Liabilities for Guarantees on Long-Duration Contracts, Guaranteed Benefit Liability, Gross [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	79	77
Less reinsurance recoverables	34	43
Net balance at beginning of period	45	34
Incurred guarantee benefits	13	11
Paid guarantee benefits	0	0
Net change	13	11
Net balance at end of period	58	45
Plus reinsurance recoverables	39	34
Balance at end of period	$ 97	$ 79

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_3

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Effects of reinsurance on property and casualty premiums (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property and casualty insurance premiums earned
Direct	$ 36,978	$ 35,115	$ 34,015
Assumed	841	837	863
Ceded	(1,306)	(1,274)	(1,296)
Net amount	36,513	34,678	33,582
Property-liability insurance premiums earned
Property and casualty insurance premiums written
Direct	35,895	33,685	32,614
Assumed	99	64	47
Ceded	(1,008)	(1,007)	(1,061)
Property and casualty insurance premiums written, net of recoverables	34,986	32,742	31,600
Property and casualty insurance premiums earned
Direct	34,977	33,221	32,249
Assumed	87	50	45
Ceded	(1,016)	(971)	(987)
Net amount	34,048	32,300	31,307
Life and annuity premiums and contract charges
Life premiums and contract charges
Direct	2,001	1,894	1,766
Assumed	754	787	818
Ceded	(290)	(303)	(309)
Life premiums and contract charges, net of recoverables	$ 2,465	$ 2,378	$ 2,275

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_4

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Property and casualty reinsurance recoverable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565	$ 8,921
Reinsurance recoverables related to ceded unpaid losses	7,155	6,471	$ 6,184	$ 5,892
Property-Liability
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	7,270	6,570
Paid	111	96
Reinsurance recoverables related to ceded unpaid losses	7,150	6,470
Discontinued Lines and Coverages
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Allowance for uncollectible reinsurance	65	70
Westport Insurance Corporation | Property-Liability
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Largest reinsurance recoverable from a single reinsurer	$ 60	$ 61

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_5

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Industry pools and facilities (Details)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended				24 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	May 31, 2019USD ($)hurricane	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net			$ 9,565,000,000	$ 8,921,000,000
Cash and invested assets			112,249,000,000	112,422,000,000
Accumulated deficit	$ (2,920,000,000)		(44,033,000,000)	(41,579,000,000)
Retained earnings accumulated deficit decrease	47,240,000,000
Ceded premium earned			1,306,000,000	1,274,000,000	$ 1,296,000,000
Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net			$ 5,400,000,000	5,260,000,000
Reinsurance increase, percentage			6.00%
Program funding, per vehicle annual assessment			$ 192
Cash and invested assets	$ 20,540,000,000
National Flood Insurance Program
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net			31,000,000	88,000,000
Ceded premium earned			258,000,000	263,000,000	274,000,000
Ceded losses incurred			118,000,000	1,120,000,000	537,000,000
New Jersey Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net			461,000,000	493,000,000
Minimum medical benefits portion of personal injury protection coverage for reimbursement to insurers for policies issued or renewed prior to January 1, 1991			75,000
Minimum medical benefits portion of personal injury protection coverage for reimbursement to insurers for policies issued or renewed from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2004			75,000
Maximum reimbursement to insurers for medical benefits paid under personal injury protection coverage.			250,000
Reinsurance, administration assessments paid			8,900,000
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net			104,000,000	19,000,000
Ceded premium earned			10,000,000	11,000,000	12,000,000
Ceded losses incurred			$ 143,000,000	$ 19,000,000	0
Scenario, Forecast | Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention level per claim						$ 580,000	$ 555,000
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract						2 years	2 years
Scenario, Forecast | Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Percent of losses in excess of retention level to be reimbursed		90.00%
Retention level for losses related to 2 largest hurricanes		$ 54,000,000
Number of storms | hurricane		2
Retention level for losses related to other hurricanes		$ 18,000,000
Maximum Retention level for losses related to hurricanes		$ 172,000,000
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums first year			6.00%
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums subsequent years			10.00%
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums subsequent years, FL OIR			0.00%
Emergency assessment, bonds issued					$ 2,000,000,000

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_6

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2017
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net		$ 9,565,000,000			$ 8,921,000,000
Assets		112,249,000,000			112,422,000,000
Retained income	$ 2,920,000,000	44,033,000,000			41,579,000,000
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit Increase (Decrease)	(47,240,000,000)
Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net		$ 5,400,000,000			$ 5,260,000,000
Reinsurance increase, percentage		6.00%
Program funding, per vehicle annual assessment		$ 192
Assets	$ 20,540,000,000
Scenario, Forecast | Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention level per claim			$ 580,000	$ 555,000
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract			2 years	2 years

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_7

Reinsurance and Indemnification - New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565,000,000	$ 8,921,000,000
New Jersey Unsatisfied Claim and Judgment Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Minimum medical benefits portion of personal injury protection coverage for reimbursement to insurers for policies issued or renewed prior to January 1, 1991	75,000
Minimum medical benefits portion of personal injury protection coverage for reimbursement to insurers for policies issued or renewed from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2004	75,000
Maximum reimbursement to insurers for medical benefits paid under personal injury protection coverage.	250,000
Reinsurance, administration assessments paid	8,900,000
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	461,000,000	$ 493,000,000
Insurance fund balance	41,000,000
PLGIA
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Insurance fund balance	$ 250,000,000

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_8

Reinsurance and Indemnification - North Carolina Reinsurance Facility (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Premiums earned		$ 36,513	$ 34,678	$ 33,582
Recoverables		7,155
North Carolina Reinsurance Facility
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Funds Deficit in Member's equity	$ 215
Net income	95
Premiums earned	1,100
Paid		9.8
Recoverables		$ 76.4
Private Passenger Auto Risk Recoupment | North Carolina Reinsurance Facility
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Premiums earned	206
Member Loss Recoupments | North Carolina Reinsurance Facility
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Premiums earned	$ 228

Reinsurance and Indemnificati_9

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund (Details)	12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2019USD ($)hurricane	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded premium earned		$ 1,306,000,000	$ 1,274,000,000	$ 1,296,000,000
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net		$ 9,565,000,000	8,921,000,000
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums first year		6.00%
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums subsequent years		10.00%
Emergency assessment, bonds issued				2,000,000,000
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums subsequent years, FL OIR		0.00%
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded premium earned		$ 10,000,000	11,000,000	12,000,000
Ceded losses incurred		143,000,000	19,000,000	$ 0
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net		$ 104,000,000	$ 19,000,000
Scenario, Forecast | Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Percent of losses in excess of retention level to be reimbursed	90.00%
Retention level for losses related to 2 largest hurricanes	$ 54,000,000
Number of storms | hurricane	2
Retention level for losses related to other hurricanes	$ 18,000,000
Maximum Retention level for losses related to hurricanes	$ 172,000,000

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_10

Reinsurance and Indemnification - National Flood Insurance Program (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565,000,000	$ 8,921,000,000
Ceded premium earned	1,306,000,000	1,274,000,000	$ 1,296,000,000
Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	104,000,000	19,000,000
Ceded premium earned	10,000,000	11,000,000	12,000,000
Ceded losses incurred	143,000,000	19,000,000	0
National Flood Insurance Program
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	31,000,000	88,000,000
Ceded premium earned	258,000,000	263,000,000	274,000,000
Ceded losses incurred	$ 118,000,000	$ 1,120,000,000	$ 537,000,000

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_11

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Catastrophe reinsurance (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded premium earned	$ 1,306	$ 1,274	$ 1,296
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	500
Catastrophe Reinsurance Program
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded premium earned	343	$ 344	$ 381
Nationwide Per Occurrence Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Program
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	4,500
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Catastrophe reinsurance, number of agreements | contract	4

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_12

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Per Occurrence Excess Agreement (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)layerreinstatement	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565	$ 8,921
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	500
Catastrophe Reinsurance Layers
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	517
Net income	60
Reinsurance, Incremental Reinstatement Premiums	$ 30
Catastrophe Reinsurance First Five Layers
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Number of layers subject to reinstatement in which catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts are placed | layer	3
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.70%
Catastrophe Reinsurance Sixth Layer
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	95.00%
Catastrophe Reinsurance Layer, One to Six
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 3,070
Catastrophe Reinsurance Eight Layer
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	29.37%
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate annual loss limit	$ 446
Catastrophe Reinsurance, Six And Eight Layer
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract	7 years
Catastrophe Reinsurance, Eight And Nine Layer
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	100.00%
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 69
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	2,750
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate annual loss limit	$ 1,250
Reinsured risk, percentage	5.00%

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_13

Reinsurance and Indemnification - 2014-1 PCS Excess Agreement (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)state
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
2014-1 PCS
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Number of states covered by reinsurance agreement | state	29
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 321
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	95.00%
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 3,070

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_14

Reinsurance and Indemnification - 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract (Details) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)state
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		$ 500
2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Number of states covered by reinsurance agreement | state		48
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 571
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	65.63%
Minimum | 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 3,400
Maximum | 2017-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 3,970

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_15

Reinsurance and Indemnification - 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts			$ 500
2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit			100.00%
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 500		$ 500
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract			4 years
Losses in multiple exposures, retention amount annual limit			$ 1
Minimum | 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts			3,750
Retention amount annual limit			3,750
Maximum | 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts			$ 4,250
Scenario, Forecast | 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit		100.00%
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement		$ 500
Scenario, Forecast | Minimum | 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		4,000
Scenario, Forecast | Maximum | 2018-1 Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		$ 4,500

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_16

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement (Details) $ in Millions	7 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)hurricane	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contractlimit
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		$ 500
Number of hurricanes | hurricane	2
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Contracts number | contract		5
Number of contracts, traditional market | contract		2
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, remaining	$ 67	$ 67
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate, loss limit per contract year, percent		90.00%
Catastrophe reinsurance loss amount		$ 180
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Provisional
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit		100.00%
Number of limits available per contract year | limit		3
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement		$ 36
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		$ 20
Catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts, number of limits remaining per a contract year | limit		2
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Two Largest Hurricanes
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	56
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	19
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Personal Property Lines
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit		100.00%
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement		$ 249
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		20
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	42	42
Hurricane | Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	113	113
Hurricane | Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Provisional
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	$ 36	$ 36

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_17

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Below FHCF Contract (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)limit
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Provisional
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	100.00%
Number of limits available per contract year | limit	3
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 36
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 20
Catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts, number of limits remaining per a contract year | limit	2
Hurricane | Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Provisional
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	$ 36

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_18

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Mandatory FHCF Contracts (Details) $ in Millions	7 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)hurricane	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Number of hurricanes | hurricane	2
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts		$ 500
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate, loss limit per contract year, percent		90.00%
Catastrophe reinsurance loss amount		$ 180
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, remaining	$ 67	67
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Two Largest Hurricanes
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	56
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	19
Hurricane | Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	$ 113	$ 113

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_19

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Excess contract (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Florida Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement, Personal Property Lines
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	249
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 20
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	100.00%
Catastrophe reinsurance aggregate loss limit, exhausted	$ 42

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_20

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Sanders Re 2017-2 (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Sanders Re 2014-2 contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract	3 years
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 200
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 20

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_21

Reinsurance and Indemnification - New Jersey Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contractreinstatement
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
New Jersey Agreement
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Contracts number | contract	2
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 400
New Jersey Agreement Contract One
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.67%
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 139
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1
New Jersey Agreement Contract Two
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.67%
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 142
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1
New Jersey Agreement Contract Three
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.66%
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 150
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_22

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Kentucky Earthquake Excess Catastrophe Reinsurance Contract (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contractlimit
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Kentucky Agreement
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract	3 years
Number of limits | limit	3
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 28
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 2
Number of limits available per contract year | limit	2
Contracts number | contract	1
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	95.00%

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_23

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Sanders and New Jersey Reinsurance Agreement (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contractreinstatement
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Sanders Re 2014-2 contract
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	200
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 20
Term of catastrophe reinsurance agreement contract	3 years
New Jersey Agreement
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	$ 400
Contracts number | contract	2
New Jersey Agreement Contract One
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 139
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.67%
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1
New Jersey Agreement Contract Two
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 142
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.67%
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1
New Jersey Agreement Contract Three
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 150
Retention percentage of reinsurance limit	31.66%
Number of reinstatements each year for each contract | reinstatement	1

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_24

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Aggregate Excess Catastrophe Florida and Southeast States Reinsurance Contract (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 500
Aggregate Excess Catastrophe Florida Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	250
Southeast States Reinsurance Contract
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Limit of aggregate losses under aggregate excess agreement	250
Retention amount for catastrophe reinsurance agreement contracts	$ 250

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_25

Reinsurance and Indemnification - California E&S Earthquake Contract (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)contract	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded premium earned | $	$ 1,306	$ 1,274	$ 1,296
E&S Earthquake Agreement
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Contracts number | contract	1
Catastrophe insurance, quota share basis, percentage	100.00%

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_26

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Other reinsurance programs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565	$ 8,921
Lloyds of London
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	165	167
Property-Liability
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	7,270	6,570
Property-Liability | Westport Insurance Corporation
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Largest reinsurance recoverable from a single reinsurer	$ 60	$ 61

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_27

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Life and annuity reinsurance recoverables (Details) - Allstate Financial	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018reinsurer
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Percent of morbidity risk ceded for term-life insurance policies	90.00%
Number of unaffiliated reinsurers	14

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_28

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Retention limits by period of policy issuance (Details) - Allstate Financial - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	45 Months Ended		48 Months Ended	106 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 1998	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2015	Jun. 30, 2007
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention level per claim	$ 1		$ 5		$ 2
Retention level for contracts issued to individuals age 70 and over			3
Retention level for certain large contracts meeting specific criteria			$ 10		$ 5
Single life
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention level per claim		$ 2		$ 5
Retention level for contracts issued to individuals age 70 and over				3
Retention level for certain large contracts meeting specific criteria				10
Joint life
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Retention level per claim				8
Retention level for certain large contracts meeting specific criteria				$ 10

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_29

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Other Reinsurance Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Life insurance in force ceded to unaffiliated reinsurers	$ 81,186	$ 86,642	$ 90,011
Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Gross life insurance in force	450,600
Life insurance in force ceded to unaffiliated reinsurers	81,190
Life and annuity contract benefits
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	240	179	208
Interest credited to contractholder funds
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	24	25	26
Citigroup Subsidiaries and Scottish Re | Operating costs and expenses | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverables	118	139
Westport Insurance Corporation | Property-Liability
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Largest reinsurance recoverable from a single reinsurer	60	61
Prudential | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance recoverables	1,360	1,350
Prudential | Life and annuity premiums and contract charges | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	72	76	78
Prudential | Life and annuity contract benefits | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	87	7	21
Prudential | Interest credited to contractholder funds | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	20	20	20
Prudential | Operating costs and expenses | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Ceded losses incurred	14	$ 15	$ 15
Lincoln Benefit Life Company
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Investments held by trust	$ 5,940
Reinsurer Concentration Risk | A-
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	93.00%	92.00%
Reinsurer Concentration Risk | A- | Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage		92.00%

Reinsurance and Indemnificat_30

Reinsurance and Indemnification - Reinsurance recoverables on paid and unpaid benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 9,565	$ 8,921
Allstate Financial
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	2,299	2,354
Allstate Financial | Annuities
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	1,381	1,370
Allstate Financial | Life insurance
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	776	817
Allstate Financial | Other
Reinsurance Retention Policy [Line Items]
Reinsurance and indemnification recoverables, net	$ 142	$ 167

Deferred Policy Acquisition a_3

Deferred Policy Acquisition and Sales Inducement Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred policy acquisition costs
Balance, beginning of year	$ 4,191	$ 3,954	$ 3,861
SquareTrade acquisition	0	66	0
Acquisition costs deferred	5,663	5,001	4,717
Amortization charged to income	(5,222)	(4,784)	(4,550)
Effect of unrealized gains and losses	152	(46)	(74)
Balance, end of year	4,784	4,191	3,954
DSI activity relates to fixed annuities and interest-sensitive life contracts
Balance, beginning of year	36	40	45
Sales inducements deferred	0	0	1
Amortization charged to income	(4)	(4)	(5)
Effect of unrealized gains and losses	2	0	(1)
Balance, end of year	34	$ 36	$ 40
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Deferred policy acquisition costs
Acquisition costs deferred	152
Amortization charged to income	$ 101

Capital Structure - Total debt

Capital Structure - Total debt outstanding (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	May 15, 2018	May 13, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	$ 1,317			$ 993
Due after five years through ten years	550			550
Due after ten years	4,641			4,865
Total long-term debt principal	6,508			6,408
Debt issuance costs	(57)			(58)
Total long-term debt	6,451			6,350
Short-term debt	0			0
Total debt	$ 6,451			6,350
Redemption price as percentage of principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest	100.00%
6.75% Senior Debentures, due 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	$ 0			176
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	6.75%	6.75%
7.45% Senior Notes, due 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	$ 317			317
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	7.45%
Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2021
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	$ 250			0
Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	250			0
3.15% Senior Notes, due 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years	$ 500			500
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.15%
3.28% Senior Notes, due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after five years through ten years	$ 550			550
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.28%
6.125% Senior Notes, due 2032
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 159			159
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	6.125%
5.35% Senior Notes due 2033
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 323			323
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.35%
5.55% Senior Notes due 2035
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 546			546
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.55%
5.95% Senior Notes, due 2036
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 386			386
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.95%
6.90% Senior Debentures, due 2038
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 165			165
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	6.90%
5.20% Senior Notes due 2042
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 62			62
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.20%
4.50% Senior Notes, due 2043
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 500			500
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.50%
4.20% Senior Notes, due 2046
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 700			700
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.20%
5.10% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 500			500
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.10%
5.75% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 800			800
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.75%
6.125% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 0			224
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	6.125%		6.125%
6.50% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Due after ten years	$ 500			$ 500
Total long-term debt	$ 500
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)	6.50%

Capital Structure - Debt matur

Capital Structure - Debt maturities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Total debt outstanding by maturity:
2019	$ 317
2020	0
2021	250
2022	0
2023	750
Thereafter	5,191
Total long-term debt principal	$ 6,508	$ 6,408

Capital Structure - Narrative

Capital Structure - Narrative (Details)	Oct. 15, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	May 15, 2018USD ($)	May 13, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)director$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Repayments of Long-term Debt					$ 400,000,000	$ 0	$ 17,000,000
Long-term debt					6,451,000,000	6,350,000,000
Unsecured revolving credit facility					1,000,000,000
Commercial Paper maximum borrowing capacity					1,000,000,000
Additional borrowing capacity under credit facility increase provision					$ 500,000,000
Maximum debt to capital ratio allowed under credit facility covenant (as a percent)					37.50%
Credit facility, amount outstanding					$ 0	0
Interest paid on debt					330,000,000	332,000,000	287,000,000
Other liabilities and accrued expenses					$ 260,000,000	$ 169,000,000
Common stock
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) | shares					900,000,000	900,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) | shares					332,000,000	355,000,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) | shares					568,000,000	545,000,000
Reacquired shares (in shares) | shares					25,000,000
Average cost of reacquired shares (in dollars per share) | $ / shares					$ 88.07
Reissued net shares under equity incentive plans (in shares) | shares					2,000,000
Preferred stock
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares					$ 1	$ 1
Redemption of preferred stock					$ 385,000,000	$ 0	$ 0
Period of issuance of common stock prior to dividend declaration date during which dividend declaration is prohibited					90 days
Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Period after occurrence of certain tax and rating agency events in which redemption of debt in whole permissible					90 days
Preferred stock
Stock Redeemed (in shares) | shares	15,400
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1			$ 1	$ 1
Preferred stock, shares liquidation preference (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 25,000			$ 25,000	25,000
Redemption of preferred stock	$ 385,000,000
Stock issued during period (in shares) | shares				23,000
Dividend rate				5.625%
Proceeds from issuance of redeemable preferred stock				$ 575,000,000
Preferred stock, redemption price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares					$ 25,000
Series E
Preferred stock
Dividend rate					6.625%
Series F
Preferred stock
Dividend rate					6.25%
Minimum
Preferred stock
Collective risk-based capital ratios of subsidiaries as a percentage of net written premiums of insurance business					80.00%
Percentage of decline in consolidated shareholders' equity from benchmark quarter					20.00%
Maximum
Preferred stock
Risk-based capital ratios as a percentage of action level risk-based capital					175.00%
Percentage by which consolidated shareholders' equity should increase or decrease to avoid restriction on dividends					20.00%
Maximum | Noncumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock
Preferred stock
Additional members of the board of directors | director					2
Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2021
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				250,000,000
Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2023
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 250,000,000
3.28% Senior Notes, due 2026
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					3.28%
4.20% Senior Notes, due 2046
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					4.20%
5.10% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					5.10%
5.75% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					5.75%
Subordinated Debentures
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Minimum principal outstanding amount for redemption of debt in whole or in part					$ 25,000,000
Period after occurrence of certain tax and rating agency events in which redemption of debt in whole permissible					90 days
Maximum period for deferment of interest payment					5 years
6.50% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					6.50%
Long-term debt					$ 500,000,000
6.125% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount			$ 224,000,000
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)			6.125%		6.125%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed			100.00%
6.75% Senior Debentures, due 2018
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)		6.75%			6.75%
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed		100.00%
Repayments of Long-term Debt		$ 176,000,000
The Debentures
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Maximum period for deferment of interest payment					10 years
Reserved common stock authorized and unissued for debentures obligations (in shares) | shares					75,000,000
7.45% Senior Notes, due 2019
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)					7.45%
Threshold percentage of repurchase or redemption of outstanding principal debentures for non applicability of promises and covenants contained in the new RCC					10.00%
Period within which threshold percentage of outstanding principal of debentures is to be purchased for non applicability of promises and covenants contained in the new RCC					1 year
Specified period within which percentage of outstanding principal of debentures is to be purchased for non applicability of promises and covenants contained in the new RCC					10 years
7.45% Senior Notes, due 2019 | Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Percentage of repurchase or redemption of outstanding principal debentures within specified period for non applicability of promises and covenants contained in the new RCC					25.00%
Commercial Paper
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Amount of commercial paper outstanding					$ 0	$ 0
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2021
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Interest rate spread over LIBOR (as a percent)				0.43%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Floating Rate Senior Notes, due 2023
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Interest rate spread over LIBOR (as a percent)				0.63%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | 5.10% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Interest rate spread over LIBOR (as a percent)					3.165%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | 5.75% Subordinated Debentures, due 2053
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Interest rate spread over LIBOR (as a percent)					2.938%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | 6.50% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due 2067
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Interest rate spread over LIBOR (as a percent)					2.12%

Capital Structure - Outstandin

Capital Structure - Outstanding preferred stock (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	79,800	72,200
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 1,995	$ 1,805
Aggregate dividend payment	134	$ 116	$ 116
Excess redemption price over carrying value	$ 13
Series A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	11,500	11,500
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 287.5	$ 287.5
Dividend rate	5.625%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.41	$ 1.41	$ 1.41
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16
Series C
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	15,400
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 0	$ 385
Dividend rate	6.75%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.69	$ 1.69	$ 1.69
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 26	$ 26	$ 26
Series D
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	5,400	5,400
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 135	$ 135
Dividend rate	6.625%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.66	$ 1.66	$ 1.66
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 9	$ 9	$ 9
Series E
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	29,900	29,900
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 747.5	$ 747.5
Dividend rate	6.625%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.66	$ 1.66	$ 1.66
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 49	$ 49	$ 49
Series F
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	10,000	10,000
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 250	$ 250
Dividend rate	6.25%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.56	$ 1.56	$ 1.56
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 16	$ 16	$ 16
Series G
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	23,000	0
Aggregate liquidation preference	$ 575	$ 0
Dividend rate	5.625%
Dividends payable, amount per share (in usd per share)	$ 1.41	$ 0	$ 0
Aggregate dividend payment	$ 18	$ 0	$ 0

Company Restructuring - Narrat

Company Restructuring - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and related charges	$ 67	$ 96	$ 18
Employee costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative amount incurred to date for active programs	91
Exit costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative amount incurred to date for active programs	11
1999 Reorganization | Employee costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative amount incurred to date for active programs	59
1999 Reorganization | Exit costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative amount incurred to date for active programs	$ 99

Company Restructuring - Change

Company Restructuring - Changes in the restructuring liability (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Restructuring Reserve
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2017	$ 45
Expense incurred	70
Adjustments to liability	(3)
Payments and non-cash pension settlements	(68)
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2018	44
Employee costs
Restructuring Reserve
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2017	15
Expense incurred	50
Adjustments to liability	(1)
Payments and non-cash pension settlements	(35)
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2018	29
Exit costs
Restructuring Reserve
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2017	30
Expense incurred	20
Adjustments to liability	(2)
Payments and non-cash pension settlements	(33)
Restructuring liability as of December 31, 2018	$ 15

Commitments, Guarantees and C_3

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Total rent expense for all leases	$ 151	$ 149	$ 147
Operating leases, future minimum lease payments
2019	130
2020	121
2021	96
2022	80
2023	65
Thereafter	151
Total	$ 643

Commitments, Guarantees and C_4

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - Florida and Louisiana Citizens (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
FL Citizens
Loss Contingencies
Assessment rate, percent of deficit or prior year premiums	2.00%
Surcharge on policies, deadline for filing prior to imposing	15 days
Emergency assessment maximum percentage of premiums subsequent years, FL OIR	0.00%
LA Citizens
Loss Contingencies
Assessment rate, percent of deficit or prior year premiums	10.00%

Commitments, Guarantees and C_5

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund and California Earthquake Authority (Details) - California Earthquake Authority - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Loss Contingencies
CEA capital balance	$ 5,540
Proceeds of revenue bonds	682
CEA existing reinsurance layer	8,150
Current estimated maximum CEA assessment	1,660
CEA capital balance threshold	350
CEA capital balance to be restored	350
Projected aggregate claim paying capacity	$ 16,020
Share of the CEA (as a percent)			10.20%
Maximum possible assessment		$ 168.8

Commitments, Guarantees and C_6

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - Texas Associations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Loss Contingencies
Liability for claims	$ 27,423	$ 26,325
Texas Windstorm Insurance Association
Loss Contingencies
Loss contingency accrual	37
Texas Fair Plan Association
Loss Contingencies
Liability for claims	$ 8

Commitments, Guarantees and C_7

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - New Jersey and North Carolina (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
North Carolina Joint Underwriters Association
Loss Contingencies
Plan surplus receivable	$ 4.1
Payment of plan surplus	5.3
Funds surplus in member's equity	(20.4)
North Carolina Insurance Underwriting Association
Loss Contingencies
Funds surplus in member's equity	720.5
Maximum possible assessment	$ 1,000
Percentage of surcharge on property insurance policy statewide to be remitted to the plan	10.00%

Commitments, Guarantees and C_8

Commitments, Guarantees and Contingent Liabilities - Guaranty funds and Guarantees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Loss Contingencies
Limitations or indemnifications of reinsurance agreements	$ 0
Guaranty Funds
Loss Contingencies
Liability for insurance assessments	12	$ 12
Insurance assessments, premium tax offsets	16	$ 19
Minimum
Loss Contingencies
Reasonably possible additional losses	0
Maximum
Loss Contingencies
Reasonably possible additional losses	$ 100

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax Legislation expense (benefit)	$ 29,000,000	$ 509,000,000
Effective income tax rate (as a percent)	17.80%	21.90%	31.80%
Tax Legislation benefit	1.10%	11.20%	(0.00%)
Income tax penalties and interest expense		$ 0	$ 0
Interest on income taxes accrued		0
Income tax paid	$ 731,000,000	968,000,000	$ 359,000,000
Current income tax payable	124,000,000	44,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties accrued		$ 0
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible	58,000,000
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	239,000,000
US Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	209,000,000
Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	$ 30,000,000

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reconciliation of the change in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits
Balance – beginning of year	$ 55	$ 10	$ 7
Increase for tax positions taken in a prior year	3	34	0
Increase for tax positions taken in the current year	12	11	3
Balance – end of year	$ 70	$ 55	$ 10

Income Taxes - Components of th

Income Taxes - Components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Deferred tax assets
Unearned premium reserves	$ 594	$ 545
Accrued compensation	145	137
Pension	192	86
Discount on loss reserves	67	53
Net operating loss carryover	50	50
Other assets	57	49
Other postretirement benefits	45	48
Total deferred tax assets	1,150	968
Deferred tax liabilities
DAC	(854)	(770)
Unrealized net capital gains	(2)	(422)
Life and annuity reserves	(194)	(241)
Intangible assets	(145)	(113)
Investments	(278)	(106)
Other liabilities	(102)	(98)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(1,575)	(1,750)
Net deferred tax liability	$ (425)	$ (782)

Income Taxes - Components of _2

Income Taxes - Components of the net operating loss carryforwards (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	$ 239
20-Year Carryforward Expires in 2025-2036
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	149
Indefinite Carryforward Period
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	90
US Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	209
US Federal | 20-Year Carryforward Expires in 2025-2036
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	149
US Federal | Indefinite Carryforward Period
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	60
Foreign
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	30
Foreign | 20-Year Carryforward Expires in 2025-2036
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	0
Foreign | Indefinite Carryforward Period
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Components of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2018	$ 30

Income Taxes - Components of in

Income Taxes - Components of income tax expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of income tax expense (benefit)
Current	$ 704	$ 1,018	$ 654
Deferred	(236)	(23)	188
Total income tax expense	$ 468	$ 995	$ 842

Income Taxes - Reconciliation_2

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of income tax rate (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation
Statutory federal income tax rate on income from operations	21.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Tax Legislation benefit	(1.10%)	(11.20%)	0.00%
Share-based payments	(0.60%)	(1.40%)	0.00%
Tax-exempt income	(0.90%)	(0.70%)	(1.20%)
Tax credits	(1.30%)	(1.30%)	(1.30%)
Non-deductible goodwill impairment	0.00%	1.00%	0.00%
Other	0.70%	0.50%	(0.70%)
Effective income tax rate (as a percent)	17.80%	21.90%	31.80%
Income tax benefit	$ (468)	$ (995)	$ (842)

Statutory Financial Informati_3

Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations - Allstates domestic insurance subsidiaries (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Amount per statutory accounting practices
Net income (loss)	$ 3,404	$ 3,377	$ 1,717
Capital and surplus	18,147	18,630
Property-Liability
Amount per statutory accounting practices
Net income (loss)	2,939	3,050	1,520
Capital and surplus	14,328	14,903
Allstate Financial
Amount per statutory accounting practices
Net income (loss)	465	327	$ 197
Capital and surplus	$ 3,819	$ 3,727

Statutory Financial Informati_4

Statutory Financial Information and Dividend Limitations - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Dividend Limitations
Action level RBC expressed as a multiplier of authorized control level RBC, which if not achieved would require specific actions to be taken	2
Capital and surplus	$ 18,147	$ 18,630
Restricted net assets	25,000
Allstate Insurance Company
Dividend Limitations
Dividends paid	2,870
Maximum amount of dividends without prior approval	$ 2,730
Advance notice period required for payment of dividend in excess of amount available for distribution without prior approval	30 days
Unassigned surplus excluding unrealized appreciation from investments	$ 11,150
Capital and surplus	17,290
Authorized control level RBC	$ 3,010

Benefit Plans - Obligations and

Benefit Plans - Obligations and funded status narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Components of net periodic cost
Maximum annual medical cost inflation after retirement for Company's share of retiree medical benefits cost for non Medicare-eligible retirees (as a percent)	5.00%
Pension benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Amortization of prior service cost (credit), next fiscal year	$ (56)
Percentage of underfunded status relating to the primary employee plans	78.00%
Accumulated benefit obligation (ABO)	$ 6,150	$ 6,740
Company's Pension Plans with an ABO in excess of plan assets
Company's pension plans with ABO in excess of plan assets, aggregate projected benefit obligation	5,990	6,420
Company's pension plans with ABO in excess of plan assets, aggregate accumulated benefit obligation	5,930	6,360
Company's pension plans with ABO in excess of plan assets, aggregate fair value of plan assets	5,070	5,890
Defined benefit plans' accrued benefit costs related to certain unfunded and non-qualified plans	135	$ 140
Postretirement benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Amortization of prior service cost (credit), next fiscal year	$ (3)
Defined benefit plan, assumed health care cost trend rates
Weighted average health care cost trend rate	5.90%
Ultimate health care cost trend rate in 2038 and thereafter	4.50%

Benefit Plans - Changes in bene

Benefit Plans - Changes in benefit obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pension benefits
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	$ 6,815	$ 6,591
Service cost	110	111	$ 113
Interest cost	255	254	286
Participant contributions	0	0
Actuarial (gain) loss	255	(406)
Benefits paid	(646)	(553)
Translation adjustment and other	(55)	6
Benefit obligation, end of year	6,224	6,815	6,591
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	6,284	5,650
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss)	(300)	1,051
Employer contribution	16	131
Benefits paid	(646)	(553)
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)	(55)	5
Funded status	(925)	(531)
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax	(198)	(254)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	$ 5,299	6,284	5,650
Percentage of underfunded status relating to the primary employee plans	78.00%
Postretirement benefits
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation, beginning of year	$ 386	373
Service cost	7	8	9
Interest cost	15	15	18
Participant contributions	13	12
Actuarial (gain) loss	4	(8)
Benefits paid	(35)	(35)
Translation adjustment and other	(7)	5
Benefit obligation, end of year	375	386	$ 373
Change in pension plan assets
Employer contribution	22	23
Funded status	(375)	(386)
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax	$ (16)	$ (37)

Benefit Plans - Changes not yet

Benefit Plans - Changes not yet recognized (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Pension benefits
Change in items not yet recognized as a component of defined benefit plans, net periodic cost
Prior service credit amortized to net cost	$ 56
Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2018	(198)
Postretirement benefits
Change in items not yet recognized as a component of defined benefit plans, net periodic cost
Prior service credit amortized to net cost	21
Items not yet recognized as a component of net cost – December 31, 2018	$ (16)

Benefit Plans - Components of n

Benefit Plans - Components of net periodic cost (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of net periodic cost
Remeasurement gains and losses	$ (468)	$ 217	$ (270)
Pension benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Service cost	110	111	113
Interest cost	255	254	286
Expected return on plan assets	(427)	(419)	(387)
Amortization of prior service credit	(56)	(56)	(56)
Costs and expenses	(118)	(110)	(44)
Remeasurement of projected benefit obligation	(255)	406	388
Remeasurement of plan assets	727	(631)	(104)
Remeasurement gains and losses	(472)	225	(284)
Total net cost (benefit)	354	(335)	240
Postretirement benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Service cost	7	8	9
Interest cost	15	15	18
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service credit	(21)	(25)	(21)
Costs and expenses	1	(2)	6
Remeasurement of projected benefit obligation	(4)	8	(14)
Remeasurement of plan assets	0	0	0
Remeasurement gains and losses	4	(8)	14
Total net cost (benefit)	$ (3)	$ 6	$ (8)

Benefit Plans - Weighted averag

Benefit Plans - Weighted average assumptions used (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pension benefits
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost and net postretirement benefit cost
Discount rate	4.06%	3.96%	4.78%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.15%	3.16%	3.16%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.33%	7.32%	7.30%
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	4.31%	3.67%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.16%	3.15%
Postretirement benefits
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net pension cost and net postretirement benefit cost
Discount rate	3.95%	3.91%	4.56%
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	4.22%	3.63%

Benefit Plans - Weighted aver_2

Benefit Plans - Weighted average target allocation and actual percentage (Details) - Pension benefits - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Actual percentage of plan assets	100.00%	100.00%
Fair value of plan assets	$ 5,299	$ 6,284	$ 5,650
Equity securities
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Actual percentage of plan assets	47.00%	58.00%
Equity securities | Minimum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	36.00%
Equity securities | Maximum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	53.00%
Fixed income securities
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Actual percentage of plan assets	41.00%	34.00%
Fixed income securities | Minimum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	40.00%
Fixed income securities | Maximum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	53.00%
Limited partnership interests
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Actual percentage of plan assets	9.00%	6.00%
Limited partnership interests | Minimum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	0.00%
Limited partnership interests | Maximum
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	15.00%
Short-term investments and other
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	0.00%
Actual percentage of plan assets	3.00%	2.00%
Private equity funds
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Actual percentage of plan assets	1.00%	2.00%
Mutual funds
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Target asset allocation	4.00%	3.00%
Securities pledged as collateral
Pension plans' weighted average target percentage of plan assets and the actual percentage of plan assets
Fair value of plan assets	$ 208	$ 202

Benefit Plans - Fair Value of p

Benefit Plans - Fair Value of pension plan assets (Details) - Pension benefits - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	$ 2,809	$ 2,882
Total plan assets at fair value, allocation (as a percent)	100.00%	100.00%
Investments measured using the net asset value practical expedient	$ 2,687	$ 3,598
Securities lending obligation	(222)	(216)
Derivatives Counterparty and Cash Collateral Netting	(6)
Other net plan assets	31	20
Fair value of plan assets	5,299	6,284	$ 5,650
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	$ 345	$ 418
Total plan assets at fair value, allocation (as a percent)	12.30%	14.50%
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	$ 2,459	$ 2,425
Total plan assets at fair value, allocation (as a percent)	87.50%	84.10%
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	$ 5	$ 39
Total plan assets at fair value, allocation (as a percent)	0.20%	1.40%
Fair value of plan assets	$ 5	$ 39	10	$ 18
Equity securities
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	316	419
Equity securities | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	51	126
Equity securities | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	265	264
Equity securities | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	29
Fair value of plan assets	0	29	0	1
U.S. government and agencies
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	681	594
U.S. government and agencies | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	172	174
U.S. government and agencies | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	509	420
U.S. government and agencies | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	0
Corporate
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	1,484	1,553
Corporate | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	0
Corporate | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	1,479	1,543
Corporate | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	5	10
Fair value of plan assets	5	10	$ 10	$ 10
Short-term investments
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	320	294
Short-term investments | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	122	97
Short-term investments | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	198	197
Short-term investments | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	0
Cash and cash equivalents
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value		21
Cash and cash equivalents | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value		21
Cash and cash equivalents | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value		0
Cash and cash equivalents | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value		0
Free Standing Derivative Assets
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	19	1
Free Standing Derivative Assets | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	0
Free Standing Derivative Assets | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	19	1
Free Standing Derivative Assets | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0	$ 0
Free Standing Derivative Liabilities
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	(11)
Free Standing Derivative Liabilities | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	0
Free Standing Derivative Liabilities | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	(11)
Free Standing Derivative Liabilities | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Components of net periodic cost
Total plan assets at fair value	$ 0

Benefit Plans - Rollforward of

Benefit Plans - Rollforward of level 3 plan assets (Details) - Pension benefits - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	$ 6,284	$ 5,650
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	5,299	6,284	$ 5,650
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	39	10	18
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets sold during the period	0	0	(1)
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	3	0	0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	(5)	29	(12)
Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	(32)	0	5
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	5	39	10
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Equity securities
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	29	0	1
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets sold during the period	0	0	(1)
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	3	0	0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	0	29	0
Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	(32)	0	0
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	0	29	0
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Municipal
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year		0	7
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets sold during the period			0
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date			0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net			(7)
Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3			0
Fair value of plan assets, end of year			0
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Corporate
Change in pension plan assets
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year	10	10	10
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets sold during the period	0	0	0
Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	0	0	0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	(5)	0	(5)
Net transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	0	0	5
Fair value of plan assets, end of year	$ 5	$ 10	$ 10

Benefit Plans - Pension plan as

Benefit Plans - Pension plan assets narrative (Details) - Pension benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pension plans' assets
Percentage of total plan assets for primary employee	81.00%
Notional amount of derivatives, minimum percentage of plan assets	105.00%
Notional amount of derivatives, maximum percentage of plan assets	115.00%
Expected weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.33%	7.32%	7.30%
Expected weighted average long-term rate of return on plan assets for the next fiscal year	7.33%
Expected weighted average long-term rate of return on primary employee plan assets for the next fiscal year	7.75%
Expected weighted average long-term rate of return on employee-agent plan assets for the next fiscal year	5.75%
Arithmetic average of the annual actual return on plan assets for the last 10 years	9.00%
Arithmetic average of the annual actual return on plan assets for the last 5 years	6.60%
Equity securities
Pension plans' assets
Defined Benefit Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocations Primary Employee Plan	82.00%

Benefit Plans - Cash flows narr

Benefit Plans - Cash flows narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Pension benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Defined benefit pension plans, estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	$ 26,000,000
Employer contribution	16,000,000	$ 131,000,000
Postretirement benefits
Components of net periodic cost
Defined benefit pension plans, estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	0
Employer contribution	22,000,000	23,000,000
Participant contributions	$ 13,000,000	$ 12,000,000

Benefit Plans - Estimated futur

Benefit Plans - Estimated future benefit payments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Pension benefits
Estimated future benefit payments
2019	$ 448
2020	462
2021	495
2022	509
2023	528
2024-2028	2,383
Total benefit payments	4,825
Postretirement benefits
Estimated future benefit payments
2019	24
2020	25
2021	26
2022	27
2023	28
2024-2028	142
Total benefit payments	$ 272

Benefit Plans - Allstate 401(k)

Benefit Plans - Allstate 401(k) savings plan (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Principal balance of note from ESOP	$ 2,000,000
Interest rate on note from ESOP (as a percent)	7.90%
Company's contribution to the Allstate Plan	$ 89,000,000	$ 81,000,000	$ 80,000,000
ESOP benefit computed
Interest expense recognized by ESOP	0	0	1,000,000
Less: dividends accrued on ESOP shares	(1,000,000)	(1,000,000)	(3,000,000)
Cost of shares allocated	0	3,000,000	7,000,000
Compensation expense	(1,000,000)	2,000,000	5,000,000
Reduction of defined contribution due to ESOP	1,000,000	38,000,000	60,000,000
ESOP benefit	(2,000,000)	(36,000,000)	(55,000,000)
Contributions to ESOP	$ 0	1,000,000	2,000,000
Committed to be released ESOP shares (in shares)	0
Allocated ESOP shares (in shares)	39,000,000
Unallocated ESOP shares (in shares)	400,000
Defined contribution plan expense for eligible employees of Canadian insurance subsidiaries and Sterling	$ 15,000,000	$ 12,000,000	$ 10,000,000

Equity Incentive Plans - Narrat

Equity Incentive Plans - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	Feb. 17, 2014	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity Incentive Plans
Compensation expense		$ 125	$ 106	$ 80
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, recognized tax benefits		22	22	28
Cash received from the exercise of options		92	178	187
Tax benefit realized on options exercised and stock unrestricted		28	$ 96	$ 61
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards		$ 89
Common stock authorized for stock-based awards (in shares)		98
Common stock reserved for further issuance (in shares)		15
Nonqualified stock options
Equity Incentive Plans
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards		$ 29
Expected period of recognition of unrecognized compensation cost		1 year 8 months 16 days
Restricted stock units
Equity Incentive Plans
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards		$ 23
Expected period of recognition of unrecognized compensation cost		1 year 8 months 9 days
Portion of awards vesting and unrestricting on second anniversary of grant date (as a percent)		50.00%
Portion of awards vesting and unrestricting on third and fourth anniversaries of grant date (as a percent)		25.00%
Performance stock awards
Equity Incentive Plans
Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested awards		$ 37
Expected period of recognition of unrecognized compensation cost		1 year 7 months 2 days
Stock options
Equity Incentive Plans
Vesting period of options granted		3 years
Portion of awards vesting and unrestricting on second anniversary of grant date (as a percent)	50.00%
Portion of awards vesting and unrestricting on third and fourth anniversaries of grant date (as a percent)	25.00%
Expiration term for options		10 years

Equity Incentive Plans - Option

Equity Incentive Plans - Option grant assumptions (Details) - Stock options	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assumptions used to determine fair value of options granted
Weighted average expected term	5 years 8 months 23 days	6 years 1 month 6 days	5 years
Expected volatility, low end of the range (as a percent)	15.60%	15.70%	16.00%
Expected volatility, high end of the range (as a percent)	30.70%	32.70%	34.30%
Weighted average volatility (as a percent)	19.80%	21.00%	24.30%
Expected dividends, minimum range (as a percent)	1.50%	1.40%	1.90%
Expected dividends, maximum range (as a percent)	2.20%	1.90%	2.10%
Weighted average expected dividends (as a percent)	2.00%	1.90%	2.10%
Risk-free rate, low end of the range (as a percent)	1.30%	0.50%	0.20%
Risk-free rate, high end of the range (as a percent)	3.20%	2.50%	2.40%

Equity Incentive Plans - Summar

Equity Incentive Plans - Summary of option activity (Details) - Stock options - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock option activity
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	11,262
Granted (in shares)	2,388
Exercised (in shares)	(1,710)
Forfeited (in shares)	(206)
Expired (in shares)	(4)
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	11,730	11,262
Outstanding, net of expected forfeitures (in shares)	11,614
Outstanding, exercisable ("vested") (in shares)	6,968
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 58.46
Granted (in dollars per share)	93.04
Exercised (in dollars per share)	53.57
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	80.79
Expired (in dollars per share)	52.21
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	65.82	$ 58.46
Outstanding, net of expected forfeitures (in dollars per share)	65.59
Outstanding, exercisable ("vested") (in dollars per share)	$ 54.14
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding	$ 221,999
Aggregate intrinsic value, net of expected forfeitures, outstanding	221,832
Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable ("vested"), outstanding	$ 198,747
Weighted average remaining contractual term, Outstanding	6 years 3 months 21 days
Weighted average remaining contractual term, net of expected forfeitures, outstanding	6 years 3 months 21 days
Weighted average remaining contractual term, exercisable ("vested"), outstanding	4 years 11 months 24 days
Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted (in dollars per share)	$ 17.03	$ 14.60	$ 12.25
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$ 72,000	$ 199,000	$ 119,000

Equity Incentive Plans - Change

Equity Incentive Plans - Changes in restricted stock units (Details) - Restricted stock units - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock units activity
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	1,241
Granted (in shares)	255
Vested (in shares)	(498)
Forfeited (in shares)	(41)
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	957	1,241
Weighted average grant date fair value
Weighted average grant date fair value, nonvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 67.93
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted (in dollars per share)	93.16	$ 80.12	$ 63.51
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested (in dollars per share)	67.45
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited (in dollars per share)	75.40
Weighted average grant date fair value, nonvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 74.58	$ 67.93
Total fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units vested	$ 47	$ 58	$ 29

Equity Incentive Plans - Chan_2

Equity Incentive Plans - Changes in performance stock awards (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Weighted average grant date fair value
Tax (expense) benefit realized related to all stock-based compensation included in shareholder's equity			$ 30
Performance stock awards
Stock units activity
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	1,090
Granted (in shares)	402
Vested (in shares)	(161)
Adjustment for performance achievement (in shares)	(34)
Forfeited (in shares)	(49)
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	1,248	1,090
Weighted average grant date fair value
Weighted average grant date fair value, nonvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 70.35
Weighted average grant date fair value, granted (in dollars per share)	92.88	$ 78.47	$ 62.32
Weighted average grant date fair value, adjustment for performance achievement (in dollars per share)	70.53
Weighted average grant date fair value, vested (in dollars per share)	70.53
Weighted average grant date fair value, forfeited (in dollars per share)	76.33
Weighted average grant date fair value, nonvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 77.35	$ 70.35
Total fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units vested	$ 15	$ 17	$ 28
Stock options
Weighted average grant date fair value
Tax (expense) benefit realized related to all stock-based compensation included in shareholder's equity			$ 23

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_3

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Non-cash modifications of certain mortgage loans, fixed income securities, limited partnership interests and other investments, as well as mergers completed with equity securities	$ 94	$ 106	$ 326
Liabilities assumed		90	34
Non-cash financing activities related to the issuance of shares for vested restricted stock units	32	43	41
Liabilities for collateral received reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses	1,440	1,120	1,120
Obligations to return cash collateral for over-the-counter (OTC) and cleared derivatives reported in other liabilities and accrued expenses or other investments	$ 21	$ 3	$ 5

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_4

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Net change (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Net change in proceeds managed
Net change in fixed income securities	$ 234	$ 259	$ (584)
Net change in short-term investments	(568)	(255)	295
Operating cash flow (used) provided	(334)	4	(289)
Net change in cash	0	1	0
Net change in proceeds managed	(334)	5	(289)
Net change in liabilities
Liabilities for collateral, beginning of year	(1,124)	(1,129)	(840)
Liabilities for collateral, end of year	(1,458)	(1,124)	(1,129)
Operating cash flow provided (used)	$ 334	$ (5)	$ 289

Other Comprehensive Income (Det

Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pre-tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	$ (1,094)	$ 481	$ 625
After-tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(861)	312	409
Tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	233	(169)	(216)
Unrealized net capital gains and losses
Pre-tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	(1,142)	866	486
Less: reclassification adjustment	(186)	374	(180)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(956)	492	666
After-tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	(901)	562	316
Less: reclassification adjustment	(147)	243	(117)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(754)	319	433
Tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	241	(304)	(170)
Less: reclassification adjustment	39	(131)	63
Other comprehensive (loss) income	202	(173)	(233)
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments
Pre-tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(61)	69	14
After-tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(48)	45	9
Tax
Other comprehensive (loss) income	13	(24)	(5)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit
Pre-tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	0	1	22
Less: reclassification adjustment	77	81	77
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(77)	(80)	(55)
After-tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	2	1	17
Less: reclassification adjustment	61	53	50
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(59)	(52)	(33)
Tax
Unrealized net holding during the period	2	0	(5)
Less: reclassification adjustment	(16)	(28)	(27)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	$ 18	$ 28	$ 22

Quarterly Results (unaudited)_2

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 9,481	$ 10,465	$ 10,099	$ 9,770	$ 10,062	$ 9,888	$ 9,813	$ 9,644	$ 39,815	$ 39,407	$ 37,399
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	$ 2,012	$ 3,438	$ 1,692
Earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.72	$ 1.94	$ 2.76	$ 3.62	$ 2.24	$ 1.51	$ 2.15	$ 5.78	$ 9.50	$ 4.54
Earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (1.71)	$ 2.68	$ 1.91	$ 2.71	$ 3.56	$ 2.21	$ 1.49	$ 2.11	$ 5.70	$ 9.35	$ 4.48
Impact of change | Restatement Adjustment
Change in Accounting Estimate [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders	$ (273)	$ 109	$ 41	$ 31	$ 74	$ 173	$ (1)	$ 119	$ (92)	$ 365	$ (69)
Earnings per common share - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.80)	$ 0.31	$ 0.12	$ 0.09	$ 0.21	$ 0.48	$ 0	$ 0.33	$ (0.27)	$ 1.01	$ (0.18)
Earnings per common share - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.80)	$ 0.31	$ 0.11	$ 0.08	$ 0.21	$ 0.47	$ 0	$ 0.32	$ (0.26)	$ 0.99	$ (0.19)

Schedule I - Summary of Inves_2

Schedule I - Summary of Investments Other than Investments in Related Parties (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	$ 80,677
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	81,260
United States government, government agencies and authorities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	5,386
Fair value (if applicable)	5,517
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	5,517
States, municipalities and political subdivisions
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	8,963
Fair value (if applicable)	9,169
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	9,169
Foreign governments
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	739
Fair value (if applicable)	747
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	747
Public utilities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	5,410
Fair value (if applicable)	5,514
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	5,514
All other corporate bonds
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	35,126
Fair value (if applicable)	34,622
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	34,622
Asset-backed securities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	1,049
Fair value (if applicable)	1,045
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	1,045
Residential mortgage-backed securities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	377
Fair value (if applicable)	464
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	464
Commercial mortgage-backed securities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	63
Fair value (if applicable)	70
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	70
Redeemable preferred stock
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	21
Fair value (if applicable)	22
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	22
Fixed income securities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	57,134
Fair value (if applicable)	57,170
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	57,170
Public utilities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	78
Fair value (if applicable)	93
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	93
Banks, trusts and insurance companies
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	452
Fair value (if applicable)	525
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	525
Industrial, miscellaneous and all other
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	3,737
Fair value (if applicable)	4,159
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	4,159
Nonredeemable preferred stocks
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	222
Fair value (if applicable)	259
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	259
Equity securities
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	4,489
Fair value (if applicable)	5,036
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	5,036
Mortgage loans on real estate
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	4,670
Fair value (if applicable)	4,703
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	4,670
Real estate
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	624
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	624
Real estate acquired in satisfaction of debt
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	0
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	0
Policy loans
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	891
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	891
Derivative instruments
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	117
Fair value (if applicable)	117
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	117
Limited partnership interests
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	7,505
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	7,505
Other long-term investments
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	2,220
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	2,220
Short-term investments
Summary of Investments Other Than Investments in Related Parties
Cost/amortized cost	3,027
Fair value (if applicable)	3,027
Amount shown in the Balance Sheet	$ 3,027

Schedule II - Condensed Finan_2

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant - Statement of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenues
Net investment income									$ 3,240	$ 3,401	$ 3,042
Realized capital gains and losses									(877)	445	(90)
Other income									939	883	865
Total revenues	$ 9,481	$ 10,465	$ 10,099	$ 9,770	$ 10,062	$ 9,888	$ 9,813	$ 9,644	39,815	39,407	37,399
Expenses
Interest expense									332	335	295
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses									468	(217)	270
Other operating expenses									5,594	5,196	4,846
Total costs and expenses									37,193	34,878	34,754
Income tax expense (benefit)									468	995	842
Net income									2,160	3,554	1,808
Preferred stock dividends									148	116	116
Net income applicable to common shareholders	$ (585)	$ 942	$ 678	$ 977	$ 1,294	$ 810	$ 549	$ 785	2,012	3,438	1,692
Other comprehensive income (loss), after-tax
Unrealized net capital gains and losses									(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments									(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit									(59)	(52)	(33)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, after-tax									(861)	312	409
Comprehensive income									1,299	3,866	2,217
Allstate Corporation
Revenues
Net investment income									25	10	11
Realized capital gains and losses									(10)	(2)	2
Other income									3	36	55
Total revenues									18	44	68
Expenses
Interest expense									337	334	295
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses									454	(219)	264
Pension and other postretirement benefit expense									(116)	(224)	(159)
Other operating expenses									50	50	28
Total costs and expenses									725	(59)	428
(Loss) gain from operations before income tax benefit and equity in net income of subsidiaries									(707)	103	(360)
Income tax expense (benefit)									(136)	105	(148)
Loss before equity in net income of subsidiaries									(571)	(2)	(212)
Equity in net income of subsidiaries									2,731	3,556	2,020
Net income									2,160	3,554	1,808
Preferred stock dividends									148	116	116
Net income applicable to common shareholders									2,012	3,438	1,692
Other comprehensive income (loss), after-tax
Unrealized net capital gains and losses									(754)	319	433
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments									(48)	45	9
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit									(59)	(52)	(33)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, after-tax									(861)	312	409
Comprehensive income									$ 1,299	$ 3,866	$ 2,217

Schedule II - Condensed Finan_3

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant - Financial Position (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost $355 and $361)	$ 57,170		$ 58,992
Short-term investments, at fair value (amortized cost $285 and $171)	3,027		1,944
Total assets	112,249		112,422
Liabilities
Long-term debt	6,451		6,350
Total liabilities	90,937		89,871
Shareholders’ equity
Preferred stock and additional capital paid-in, $1 par value, 25 million shares authorized, 79.8 thousand and 72.2 thousand issued and outstanding, $1,995 and $1,805 aggregate liquidation preference	1,930		1,746
Common stock, $.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized and 900 million issued, 332 million and 355 million shares outstanding	9		9
Additional capital paid-in	3,310		3,313
Retained income	44,033	$ 2,920	41,579
Deferred Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) expense	(3)		(3)
Treasury stock, at cost (568 million and 545 million shares)	(28,085)		(25,982)
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(2)		1,662
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(49)		(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	169		228
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	118		1,889
Total shareholders’ equity	21,312		22,551	$ 20,569
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	112,249		112,422
Additional balance sheet disclosures:
Short-term, at fair value, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 3,027		$ 1,944
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1		$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	25,000,000		25,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	79,800		72,200
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	79,800		72,200
Preferred stock, shares aggregate liquidation preference (in dollars)	$ 1,995		$ 1,805
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01		$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000,000,000		2,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	900,000,000		900,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	332,000,000		355,000,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	568,000,000		545,000,000
Allstate Corporation
Assets
Investments in subsidiaries	$ 29,301		$ 29,126
Fixed income securities, at fair value (amortized cost $355 and $361)	356		362
Short-term investments, at fair value (amortized cost $285 and $171)	285		171
Receivable from subsidiaries	426		427
Deferred income taxes	225		124
Other assets	92		150
Total assets	30,685		30,360
Liabilities
Long-term debt	6,451		6,350
Pension and other postretirement benefit obligations	1,050		675
Deferred compensation	281		297
Payable to subsidiaries	3		0
Notes due to subsidiaries	1,250		250
Dividends payable to shareholders	198		167
Other liabilities	140		70
Total liabilities	9,373		7,809
Shareholders’ equity
Preferred stock and additional capital paid-in, $1 par value, 25 million shares authorized, 79.8 thousand and 72.2 thousand issued and outstanding, $1,995 and $1,805 aggregate liquidation preference	1,930		1,746
Common stock, $.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized and 900 million issued, 332 million and 355 million shares outstanding	9		9
Additional capital paid-in	3,310		3,313
Retained income	44,033		41,579
Deferred Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) expense	(3)		(3)
Treasury stock, at cost (568 million and 545 million shares)	(28,085)		(25,982)
Accumulated other comprehensive income:
Unrealized net capital gains and losses	(2)		1,662
Unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments	(49)		(1)
Unamortized pension and other postretirement prior service credit	169		228
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI)	118		1,889
Total shareholders’ equity	21,312		22,551
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	30,685		30,360
Additional balance sheet disclosures:
Fixed income securities, at fair value, amortized cost (in dollars)	355		361
Short-term, at fair value, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 285		$ 171
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1		$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	25,000,000		25,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	79,800		72,200
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	79,800		72,200
Preferred stock, shares aggregate liquidation preference (in dollars)	$ 1,995		$ 1,805
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01		$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000,000,000		2,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	900,000,000		900,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	332,000,000		355,000,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	568,000,000		545,000,000

Schedule II - Condensed Finan_4

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant - Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$ 2,160	$ 3,554	$ 1,808
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Realized capital gains and losses	877	(445)	90
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	468	(217)	270
Changes in:
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,175	4,314	3,993
Cash flows from investing activities
Change in short-term investments, net	(505)	2,610	(2,446)
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,719)	(1,210)	(2,526)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	498	0	1,236
Redemption of preferred stock	(385)	0	0
Redemption and repayment of long-term debt	(400)	0	(17)
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	557	0	0
Dividends paid on common stock	(614)	(525)	(486)
Dividends paid on preferred stock	(134)	(116)	(116)
Treasury stock purchases	(2,303)	(1,495)	(1,337)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net	73	135	164
Excess tax benefits on share-based payment arrangements	0	0	32
Other	91	(57)	36
Net cash used in financing activities	(3,574)	(2,923)	(1,526)
Net (decrease) increase in cash	(118)	181	(59)
Cash at beginning of year	617	436	495
Cash at end of year	499	617	436
Allstate Corporation
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	2,160	3,554	1,808
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in net income of subsidiaries	(2,731)	(3,556)	(2,020)
Dividends received from subsidiaries	2,059	1,671	1,874
Realized capital gains and losses	10	2	(2)
Pension and other postretirement remeasurement gains and losses	454	(219)	264
Changes in:
Pension and other postretirement benefits	(116)	(224)	(159)
Income taxes	(28)	232	(20)
Operating assets and liabilities	160	56	43
Net cash provided by operating activities	1,968	1,516	1,788
Cash flows from investing activities
Proceeds from sales of investments	1,370	880	389
Proceeds from sales of investments to subsidiaries	390	0	0
Investment purchases	(1,037)	(748)	(243)
Investment collections	108	13	60
Capital contribution or return of capital from subsidiaries	(975)	42	(1,500)
Transfers to subsidiaries through intercompany loan agreement	0	0	(30)
Change in short-term investments, net	(115)	48	58
Net cash used in investing activities	(259)	235	(1,266)
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings from subsidiaries	1,250	300	0
Repayment of notes due to subsidiaries	(250)	(50)	0
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	498	0	1,236
Redemption of preferred stock	(385)	0	0
Redemption and repayment of long-term debt	(400)	0	(17)
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	557	0	0
Dividends paid on common stock	(614)	(525)	(486)
Dividends paid on preferred stock	(134)	(116)	(116)
Treasury stock purchases	(2,303)	(1,495)	(1,337)
Shares reissued under equity incentive plans, net	73	135	164
Excess tax benefits on share-based payment arrangements	0	0	32
Other	(1)	(2)	0
Net cash used in financing activities	(1,709)	(1,753)	(524)
Net (decrease) increase in cash	0	(2)	(2)
Cash at beginning of year	0	2	4
Cash at end of year	$ 0	$ 0	$ 2

Schedule II - Condensed Finan_5

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Apr. 17, 2018	Dec. 20, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 18, 2018	Oct. 11, 2018	Dec. 11, 2017
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Interest paid on debt			$ 330,000,000	$ 332,000,000	$ 287,000,000
Allstate Corporation
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Notes due to subsidiaries			1,250,000,000	250,000,000
Repayment of notes due to subsidiaries			250,000,000	50,000,000	0
Interest paid on debt			$ 330,000,000	$ 331,000,000	$ 287,000,000
Kennett Capital Inc | Subsidiaries | Allstate Corporation
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Notes due to subsidiaries						$ 1,000,000,000	$ 250,000,000
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)						3.03%	2.49%
Kennett Capital Inc | Notes Due 2018 at 1.59 Percent, Note One | Subsidiaries | Allstate Corporation
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Notes due to subsidiaries								$ 125,000,000
Note stated interest rate (as a percent)								1.59%
Repayments of debt	$ 125,000,000
Allstate Non-Insurance Holdings Inc | Notes Due 2018 at 1.59 Percent, Note Two | Subsidiaries | Allstate Corporation
Condensed Financial Information of Registrant
Notes due to subsidiaries								$ 175,000,000
Repayment of notes due to subsidiaries		$ 50,000,000
Repayments of debt	$ 125,000,000

Schedule III - Supplementary _2

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$ 4,784	$ 4,191	$ 3,954
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	58,002	58,308	57,749
Unearned premiums	14,510	13,473	12,583
Premium revenue and contract charges	36,513	34,678	33,582
Net investment income	3,240	3,401	3,042
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	25,405	24,460	24,743
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	5,222	4,784	4,550
Other operating costs and expenses	6,566	5,634	5,461
Premiums written (excluding life)	35,966	33,661	32,455
Intersegment Eliminations (2)
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	0	0	0
Unearned premiums	0	0	0
Premium revenue and contract charges	(122)	(110)	(105)
Net investment income	0	0	0
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	(7)	(6)	(5)
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Other operating costs and expenses	(115)	(104)	(100)
Premiums written (excluding life)	0	0	0
Allstate Protection | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	1,618	1,510	1,432
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	25,495	24,336	23,263
Unearned premiums	11,953	11,409	11,160
Premium revenue and contract charges	32,950	31,433	30,727
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	22,348	21,388	21,802
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	4,475	4,205	4,053
Other operating costs and expenses	4,522	4,239	4,083
Premiums written (excluding life)	33,555	31,648	30,888
Discontinued Lines and Coverages | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	1,864	1,893	1,953
Unearned premiums	0	0	0
Premium revenue and contract charges	0	0	0
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	87	96	105
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Other operating costs and expenses	3	3	2
Premiums written (excluding life)	0	0	3
Property-Liability | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	1,618	1,510	1,432
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	27,359	26,229	25,216
Unearned premiums	11,953	11,409	11,160
Premium revenue and contract charges	32,950	31,433	30,727
Net investment income	1,464	1,478	1,253
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	22,435	21,484	21,907
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	4,475	4,205	4,053
Other operating costs and expenses	4,525	4,242	4,085
Premiums written (excluding life)	33,555	31,648	30,891
Service Businesses | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	1,290	954	756
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	64	96	34
Unearned premiums	2,546	2,052	1,411
Premium revenue and contract charges	1,220	977	685
Net investment income	27	16	13
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	350	369	258
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	463	296	214
Other operating costs and expenses	603	565	283
Premiums written (excluding life)	1,431	1,094	709
Allstate Life | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	1,300	1,152	1,200
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	10,333	10,244	10,042
Unearned premiums	3	4	4
Premium revenue and contract charges	1,315	1,280	1,250
Net investment income	505	489	482
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	1,094	1,047	1,027
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	132	134	131
Other operating costs and expenses	364	344	332
Premiums written (excluding life)	0	0	0
Allstate Benefits | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	549	541	526
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	1,905	1,869	1,821
Unearned premiums	8	8	8
Premium revenue and contract charges	1,135	1,084	1,011
Net investment income	77	72	71
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	630	599	545
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	145	142	145
Other operating costs and expenses	278	261	236
Premiums written (excluding life)	980	919	855
Allstate Annuities | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	27	34	40
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	18,341	19,870	20,636
Unearned premiums	0	0	0
Premium revenue and contract charges	15	14	14
Net investment income	1,096	1,305	1,181
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	903	967	1,011
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	7	7	7
Other operating costs and expenses	31	34	31
Premiums written (excluding life)	0	0	0
Corporate and Other | Operating Segments
Supplementary Insurance Information
Deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Reserves for claims and claims expense, contract benefits and contractholder funds	0	0	0
Unearned premiums	0	0	0
Premium revenue and contract charges	0	0	0
Net investment income	71	41	42
Claims and claims expense, contract benefits and interest credited to contractholders	0	0	0
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	0	0	0
Other operating costs and expenses	880	292	594
Premiums written (excluding life)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Deta

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Life insurance in force
Gross amount	$ 207,434	$ 188,186	$ 167,355
Ceded to other companies	81,186	86,642	90,011
Assumed from other companies	243,161	259,671	275,008
Net amount	$ 369,409	$ 361,215	$ 352,352
Percentage of amount assumed to net	65.80%	71.90%	78.00%
Premiums and contract charges:
Gross amount	$ 36,978	$ 35,115	$ 34,015
Ceded premium earned	1,306	1,274	1,296
Assumed from other companies	841	837	863
Net amount	$ 36,513	$ 34,678	$ 33,582
Percentage of amount assumed to net	2.30%	2.40%	2.60%
Reinsurance or coinsurance income net of premium ceded	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Life insurance
Premiums and contract charges:
Gross amount	994	936	877
Ceded premium earned	266	276	279
Assumed from other companies	754	787	818
Net amount	$ 1,482	$ 1,447	$ 1,416
Percentage of amount assumed to net	50.90%	54.40%	57.80%
Accident and health insurance
Premiums and contract charges:
Gross amount	$ 1,007	$ 958	$ 889
Ceded premium earned	24	27	30
Assumed from other companies	0	0	0
Net amount	$ 983	$ 931	$ 859
Percentage of amount assumed to net	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Property and casualty insurance
Premiums and contract charges:
Gross amount	$ 34,977	$ 33,221	$ 32,249
Ceded premium earned	1,016	971	987
Assumed from other companies	87	50	45
Net amount	$ 34,048	$ 32,300	$ 31,307
Percentage of amount assumed to net	0.30%	0.20%	0.10%

Schedule V - Valuation Allowa_2

Schedule V - Valuation Allowances and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Allowance for reinsurance recoverables
Valuation allowances and qualifying accounts
Balance as of beginning of period	$ 70	$ 84	$ 80
Additions, Charged to costs and expenses	(5)	(10)	5
Additions, Other additions	0	0	0
Deductions	0	4	1
Balance as of end of period	65	70	84
Allowance for premium installment receivable
Valuation allowances and qualifying accounts
Balance as of beginning of period	77	84	90
Additions, Charged to costs and expenses	118	109	107
Additions, Other additions	0	0	0
Deductions	118	116	113
Balance as of end of period	77	77	84
Allowance for deferred tax assets
Valuation allowances and qualifying accounts
Balance as of beginning of period	0	0	0
Additions, Charged to costs and expenses	0	0	0
Additions, Other additions	0	0	0
Deductions	0	0	0
Balance as of end of period	0	0	0
Allowance for estimated losses on mortgage loans
Valuation allowances and qualifying accounts
Balance as of beginning of period	3	3	3
Additions, Charged to costs and expenses	0	1	0
Additions, Other additions	0	0	0
Deductions	0	1	0
Balance as of end of period	$ 3	$ 3	$ 3