INCOME TAXES - Income Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that Gave Rise to Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred income tax liabilities:
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$ 2,209	$ 2,406
Unrealized gains on investment securities	2,584	533
Premiums receivable	139	134
Policy benefit reserves	1,376	1,451
Depreciation	51	54
Other	20	22
Total deferred income tax liabilities	6,379	4,600
Deferred income tax assets:
Other basis differences in investment securities	1,331	1,129
Unfunded retirement benefits	16	16
Other accrued expenses	4	23
Policy and contract claims	99	111
Foreign currency loss on Japan branch	327	189
Deferred compensation	226	182
Capital loss carryforwards	26	514
Total deferred income tax assets	2,029	2,164
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent	(4,350)	(2,436)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current	943	1,282
Total income tax liability	$ 5,293	$ 3,718