DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS - Net Derivative Gains (Losses) Recognized on Fair Value Derivatives and the Related Hedged Item (Details) (Fixed Maturities, Foreign currency forwards, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012
Fixed Maturities | Foreign currency forwards
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Total gains (losses) recognized for derivatives	$ 17	$ 17
Gains (losses) on derivatives excluded from effectiveness testing	(3)	(3)
Gains (losses) on derivatives included in effectiveness testing	20	20
Gains (losses) recognized for hedged items	(20)	(20)
Ineffectiveness recognized for fair value hedge	$ 0	$ 0