Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets
Due from customers and agents, less allowances of $27,413 and $28,152, respectively	$ 27,413	$ 28,152
Other, less allowances of $3,670 and $5,263, respectively	3,670	5,263
Investments
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $146,578 and $143,613, respectively	146,578	143,613
TDS shareholders' equity
Authorized shares	290,000	290,000
Issued shares	132,672	132,672
Outstanding shares	108,077	108,031
Par value	1,327	1,327
Treasury shares at cost:	24,595	24,641
Series A Common Shares
TDS shareholders' equity
Authorized shares	25,000	25,000
Issued shares	7,160	7,160
Outstanding shares	7,160	7,160
Par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Par value	72	72
Common Shares
TDS shareholders' equity
Authorized shares	265,000	265,000
Issued shares	125,512	125,512
Outstanding shares	100,917	100,871
Par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Par value	$ 1,255	$ 1,255
Treasury shares at cost:	24,595	24,641