Investments and Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Change in non-credit impairments of debt securities recognized in OCI
OTTI losses recognized in OCI	$ (7)	$ (64)
Changes in fair value and/or sales	10	64
Tax and deferred acquisition costs	(11)	5
Change in non-credit impairments recognized in OCI	$ (8)	$ 5

Other-than-temporary impairment losses transferred to other comprehensive income in accordance with FAS FSP 115-2.

No definition available.

Name:	hig_OttiLossesRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncome
Namespace Prefix:	hig_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration