EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Note Text Block]

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed assuming that all potentially dilutive securities were converted into common shares. There are no adjustments required to be made to net income for purposes of computing basic and diluted earnings per share. A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share is as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions, except per share amounts	2020		2019		2020		2019
Earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders	$	204	$	344	$	329	$	1,060
Weighted average common shares outstanding	393.1		392.6		392.9		396.3
Effect of dilutive securities
Restricted performance share plan	1.5		2.8		1.6		3.3
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6		395.4		394.5		399.6
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.88	$	0.84	$	2.67
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.83	$	2.65