Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current assets
Due from customers and agents, allowances	$ 56,112	$ 63,690
Other, allowances	2,165	1,914
Investments
Other intangible assets, accumulated amortization	117,767	112,752
TDS shareholders' equity
Authorized shares	290,000	290,000
Issued shares	132,721	132,711
Outstanding shares	108,750	108,757
Par value	1,327	1,327
Treasury Shares
TDS shareholders' equity
Treasury shares	23,971	23,954
Series A Common Shares
TDS shareholders' equity
Authorized shares	25,000	25,000
Issued shares	7,176	7,166
Outstanding shares	7,176	7,166
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	125,545	125,545
Outstanding shares	101,574	101,591
Par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Par value	$ 1,255	$ 1,255
Common Shares | Treasury Shares
TDS shareholders' equity
Treasury shares	23,971	23,954