Stock-Based Incentive Compensation Plans (Summary of LNC stock-based awards granted) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Stock options [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	476,845
Performance Shares [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	177,315
Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	62,887
Restricted Stock Units And Non-Vested Stock [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	432,810
Non Employee Agent Stock Options [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	86,615
Non Employee Director Deferred Stock Units [Member]
LNC stock-based awards granted [Abstract]
Shares granted	8,200