Entity Information (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jul. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Entity Registrant Name	LINCOLN NATIONAL CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0000059558
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 8,800
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		279,173,774
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2