Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	$ 133,986	$ 131,214
Advice and Wealth Management
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	12,293	11,241
Asset Management
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	6,863	7,854
Annuities
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	87,266	84,836
Protection
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	18,915	18,571
Corporate and Other
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets	8,649	8,539
Assets held for sale
Summary of assets by segment
Total assets		$ 173