Derivatives and Hedging Instruments - Additional Information (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013
Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract]
Decrease in estimated purchase price by offsetting foreign exchange loss	$ 4.3	$ 4.3

Decrease In Estimated Purchase Price By Offsetting Foreign Exchange Loss

No definition available.

Name:	ecpg_DecreaseInEstimatedPurchasePriceByOffsettingForeignExchangeLoss
Namespace Prefix:	ecpg_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration