CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 3,394	$ 706	$ 1,060
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	41	(18)	(25)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	563	(194)	(832)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	(5)	(3)	(4)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	599	(215)	(861)
Comprehensive income (loss)	3,993	491	199
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(552)	(479)	(383)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 3,441	$ 12	$ (184)