Segments of Operations (Details Textual) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2012
Segments of Operations (Textual) [Abstract]
Earnings (losses) of managed investment entities attributable to noncontrolling interests	$ (31)	[1]	$ (18)	[1]	$ (42)	[1]	$ (46)	[1]
Other [Member]
Segments of Operations (Textual) [Abstract]
Earnings (losses) of managed investment entities attributable to noncontrolling interests	(31)		(18)		(42)		(46)
Insurance-related Assessments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Charge for guaranty fund assessments for the insolvency and liquidation of an unaffiliated life insurance company	$ 5

[1] Included in Earnings before income taxes in AFG’s Statement of Earnings.