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Stock-Based Compensation, TDS excluding U.S. Cellular, Valuation model (Details) - TDS Parent Company - TDS Long-Term Incentive Plans - Stock Options
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Black Scholes valuation model assumptions      
Expected life 6 years 2 months 6 years 1 month 5 years 10 months
Expected annual volatility rate 30.30% 30.80% 39.60%
Dividend yield 2.00% 1.90% 2.00%
Risk-free interest rate 1.30% 1.80% 1.80%
Estimated annual forfeiture rate 2.70% 3.20% 2.90%