CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 1,480	$ 1,314	$ 1,687
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(8)	(76)	(90)
Net unrealized [gains (losses)] on securities:
Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities	7	47	(360)
Net unrealized gains on derivatives:
Net unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives	3	4	1
Defined benefit plans:
Defined benefit plans	28	(34)	(20)
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Adjustment Other Investments Net of Tax	(1)	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	29	(59)	(469)
Total comprehensive income	1,509	1,255	1,218
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	65
Comprehensive income attributable to Ameriprise Financial	$ 1,509	$ 1,255	$ 1,153