Realized (Gain) Loss (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Details underlying realized gain (loss)
Total realized gain (loss) related to certain investments	$ (151)	$ (180)	$ (538)
Realized gain (loss) on the mark-to-market on certain instruments	(83)	75	36
Indexed annuity net derivative results
Gross gain (loss)	2	34	8
Associated amortization of DAC, VOBA, DSI, and DFEL	(2)	(15)	(4)
Variable annuity net derivatives results
Gross gain (loss)	(60)	56	(710)
Associated amortization of DAC, VOBA, DSI, and DFEL	(5)	(47)	61
Realized gain (loss) on sale of subsidiaries/businesses	0	0	1
Total realized gain (loss)	$ (299)	$ (77)	$ (1,146)