Investments and Derivative Instruments (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 30, 2011		Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 30, 2011
Results of variable annuity hedge program [Line Items]
Document Period End Date					Sep. 30, 2012
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Gross gains on sales	$ 205		$ 197		$ 710		$ 519
Gross losses on sales	(131)		(63)		(387)		(294)
Net OTTI losses recognized in earnings	(37)		(60)		(164)		(138)
Valuation allowances on mortgage loans	0		0		1		23
Japanese fixed annuity contract hedges, net	(24)	[1]	9	[1]	(42)	[1]	(2)	[1]
Periodic net coupon settlements on credit derivatives/Japan	2		1		1		(8)
Total results of variable annuity hedge program	105		916		(474)		571
Other, net	(1)	[2]	(425)	[2]	153	[2]	(430)	[2]
Net realized capital gains (losses)	119		575		(202)		241
U.S. [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	272		(216)		159		(294)
U.S. [Member] | GMWB derivatives, net [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	381		(323)		451		(300)
U.S. [Member] | Macro Hedge Program [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	(109)		107		(292)		6
International [Member]
Net realized capital gains (losses)
Results of variable annuity hedge program	$ (167)		$ 1,132		$ (633)		$ 865

[1] Relates to the Japanese fixed annuity product (adjustment of product liability for changes in spot currency exchange rates, related derivative hedging instruments, excluding net period coupon settlements, and Japan FVO securities).

[2] Primarily consists of gains and losses on non-qualifying derivatives and fixed maturities, FVO, Japan 3Win related foreign currency swaps, and other investment gains and losses.