Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Present Value of Future Profits (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Changes in deferred policy acquisition costs and present value of future profits
Balance, beginning of period, as currently reported	$ 6,556	$ 7,473
Deferred Costs	439	419
Amortization - DAC	(445)	(488)
Amortization - Unlock charge, pre-tax	124	38
Adjustments to unrealized gains and losses on securities available-for-sale and other	(21)	48
Effect of currency translation	(76)	(32)
Balance, end of period	$ 6,577	$ 7,460