Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
NET INCOME (LOSS)	$ 7,974	$ 4,419	$ 5,712
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments for the period	751	256	(287)
Net unrealized investment gains (losses)	2,397	3,683	(5,486)
Defined benefit pension and postretirement unrecognized periodic benefit (cost)	71	(254)	(264)
Total	3,219	3,685	(6,037)
Less: Income tax expense (benefit) related to other comprehensive income (loss)	784	1,305	(2,213)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	2,435	2,380	(3,824)
Comprehensive income (loss)	10,409	6,799	1,888
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	93	95	11
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Prudential Financial, Inc.	$ 10,316	$ 6,704	$ 1,877