Change in Estimates of Capitalized Labor [Member] Change in estimates of capitalized labor Represents the change in estimates of capitalized labor due to transition from certain of Qwest's legacy systems to historical company systems. Change in Estimates of Economic Lives and Net Salvage Value [Member] Change in estimates of economic lives and net salvage value Represents the change in estimates of the economic lives and net salvage value for certain telecommunications equipment. Represents Savvis, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Savvis Savvis Inc. [Member] Qwest Represents Qwest Communications International, Inc. (QCII), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Qwest Communications International Inc. [Member] QCII Trade Names and Patents [Member] Tradenames and patents Represents (a) tradename which is the right acquired through registration of a business name to gain or protect exclusive use thereof and (b) patents which are the exclusive legal right granted by the government to the owner of the patent to exploit an invention or a process for a period of time specified by law. Represents Regional Markets, which consists generally of providing products and services to consumers, small- to medium-sized businesses and regional enterprise customers. Regional Market [Member] Regional markets Represents Business Markets, which consists generally of providing products and services to enterprise and government customers. Business Market [Member] Business markets Represents Wholesale Markets, which consists of providing products and services to other communications providers. Wholesale Market [Member] Wholesale markets Savvis operations Represents Savvis Markets, which consists generally of (i) hosting services (that includes collocation of equipment and managed hosting services such as cloud services, dedicated hosting, managed security services and utility computing and storage) and (ii) network services (including managed virtual private networks, hosting area networks and bandwidth services.) Savvis Markets [Member] Represents Qwest Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Qwest Communications International Inc. Qwest Corporation Qwest Corporation [Member] Amendment Description Senior Notes and Debentures [Member] Senior Notes Represents information in the aggregate pertaining to senior notes and debentures. Amendment Flag Represents other notes issued by the reporting entity. Other Notes [Member] Other. Embarq Corporation Represents Embarq Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Embarq [Member] First Mortgage Notes [Member] First mortgage notes Represents the information pertaining to first mortgage notes. Other subsidiaries Represents other subsidiaries of the entity. Other Subsidiaries [Member] Notes 7.50 Percent Due 2014 [Member] 7.50% Notes due Feb 15, 2014 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.50%, Due Feb 15, 2014. Represents the services which include private line, broadband, Qwest iQ Networking, hosting, video, voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, services and Verizon Wireless services. Strategic services Strategic Services [Member] Represents the services which include local, long-distance, access, integrated services digital network, or ISDN, services and traditional wide area network, or WAN services. Legacy services Legacy Services [Member] Represents telecommunications equipment that is located on customers' premises and related professional services, including network management, installation and maintenance of data equipment and building of proprietary fiber-optic broadband networks for the entity's government and business customers. Data integration Data Integration [Member] Represents the services, primarily universal service fund ("USF") surcharges, other than strategic services, legacy services and data integration provided by the reporting entity. Other Other Services [Member] Litigation in which a group of retirees filed a putative class action lawsuit challenging the decision to make certain modifications to Embarq's retiree benefits programs generally effective January 1, 2008. William Douglas Fulghum, et al. v. Embarq Corporation William Douglas Fughum Against Embarq Corporation [Member] Represents details pertaining to Abbott et al. v. Sprint Nextel et al. Abbott et al. v. Sprint Nextel et al. Abbott Et Al. V. Sprint Nextel Et Al. [Member] Represents the tort and mismanagement claims under Dutch law pertaining to KPNQwest, N.V. bankruptcy proceeding. KPNQwest, N.V. tort and mismanagement claims under Dutch law KPNQwest Dutch Bankruptcy Proceeding N.V.Tort and Mismanagement Claims Dutch Law [Member] The lawsuit filed by Cargill Financial Markets, Plc and Citibank, N.A. alleging that defendant misrepresented the financial and business condition in connection with the origination of a credit facility and wrongfully allowed to borrow funds under that facility. Cargill Financial Markets, Plc and Citibank, N.A. Cargill Financial Markets Plc and Citibank NA [Member] 7.65% Senior Notes due 2042 Senior Notes 7.65 Percent Due 2042 [Member] Represents the senior notes with an interest rate of 7.65 percent, due in 2042. 5.8% Senior Notes due 2022 Senior Notes 5.8 Percent Due 2022 [Member] Represents the senior notes with an interest rate of 5.8 percent, due in 2022. Current Fiscal Year End Date Former Centel plant sites Former Centel Plant Sites [Member] Plant sites that may have been owned or operated by Centel Corporation, an indirect subsidiary, for which the Environmental Protection Agency has issued administrative consent orders. Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable, less allowance of $157 and $145 Accounts receivable, less allowance Represents the several putative class actions relating to the installation of fiber-optic cable in certain rights-of-way filed against Qwest on behalf of landowners on various dates and in various courts. Fiber-optic cable installation Fiber Optic Cable Installation [Member] Document and Entity Information The adjustment out of other comprehensive income for actuarial gains (losses) and prior service cost recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost during the period, after tax. Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service credit included in net income and other adjustments, net of $1,302 and $(13,807) tax Amortization of Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit Included in Net Income and Other Adjustments, Net of $1,302 and $(13,807) Tax Amortization of Net Actuarial Loss and Prior Service Credit Included in Net Income and Other Adjustments, Tax For each annual statement of income presented, the tax effect of the net gain or loss recognized in other comprehensive income that is a reclassification adjustment of other comprehensive income as a result of being recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost for the period and the tax effect on adjustment out of other comprehensive income for prior service costs recognized as a component of net period benefit cost during the period. Amortization of net actuarial loss and prior service credit included in net income and other adjustments, tax Payment of Debt Issuance Retirement Cost Early retirement of debt costs The cash outflow for debt issuance retirement costs. Cash Acquired from Acquisition of Businesses Cash paid for Savvis acquisition, net of $61 cash acquired Represents cash inflow associated with the acquisition of business during the period (for example, cash that was held by the acquired business). Increase in other noncurrent assets The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income. Increase (Decrease) in Noncurrent Assets Cash acquired in Qwest acquisition, net of $5 cash paid The cash inflow associated with the Qwest acquisition during the period (for example, cash that was held by the acquired business). Cash Acquired from Acquisition One Document Period End Date Cash Acquired from Acquisition Two Cash acquired in Embarq acquisition The cash inflow associated with the Embarq acquisition during the period (for example, cash that was held by the acquired business). Cash Acquired from Acquisitions The cash inflow associated with the acquisition of business during the period (for example, cash that was held by the acquired business). Cash paid for Savvis acquisition, cash acquired Issuance of Common Stock Value Through Dividend Reinvestment Incentive and Benefit Plans Value of stock issued during the period from a dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP). A dividend reinvestment plan allows the holder of the stock to reinvest dividends paid to them by the entity on new issues of stock by the entity; and value of stock granted during the period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). This element is not the recognition of share-based compensation expense in pursuant to FAS 123R. Issuance of common stock through dividend reinvestment, incentive and benefit plans Share-based Compensation and Other This element represents the amount of recognized share-based compensation during the period, that is, the amount recognized as expense in the income statement (or as asset if compensation is capitalized) and movements included in the statement of changes in stockholders' equity which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. Share-based compensation and other, net Issuance of common stock value to acquire Qwest, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards. Issuance of common stock to acquire Qwest, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards Stock Issued During Period Value, Acquisition of Business One Issuance of common stock to acquire Savvis, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards. Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisition of Business Two Issuance of common stock to acquire Savvis, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards Issuance of common stock to acquire Embarq, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards. Issuance of common stock to acquire Embarq, including shares issued in connection with share-based compensation awards Stock Issued During Period Value, Acquisition of Business Three Labor Union Contracts Labor Union Contracts Disclosure [Text Block] Labor Union Contracts The entire disclosure for labor union contracts of the reporting entity during the reporting period. Entity [Domain] Schedule of Business Acquisition Expense Recognized [Table Text Block] Schedule of acquisition related expenses, consisting primarily of integration and severance Tabular disclosure of expenses related to acquisitions incurred during the period. Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition Expenses Recognized [Table Text Block] Schedule of expenses recognized by CenturyLink Tabular disclosure of expenses related to acquisitions incurred during the period. Schedule of Goodwill, Attributable to Segments [Table Text Block] Schedule of goodwill balances attributable to the Company's segments. Schedule of goodwill attributable to segments Schedule of Interest Expense Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of amount of gross interest expense, net of capitalized interest Tabular disclosure of long term debt interest expense. Schedule of Assumptions Used, Net Periodic Benefit (Expense) [Table Text Block] Schedule of actuarial assumptions used to compute net periodic benefit expense Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the net benefit cost, including assumed discount rates, rate increase in compensation increase, trend information and expected long-term rates of return on plan assets. Schedule of Assumptions Used Benefit Obligation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the benefit obligation, including assumed discount rates, rate increase in compensation increase, and trend information. Schedule of actuarial assumptions used to compute the funded status for the plans Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans, Gross Notional Exposure [Table Text Block] Schedule of gross notional exposure of the derivative instruments directly held by the plans Tabular disclosure of gross notional exposure of the derivative instruments directly held by the plans. Schedule of the three input levels in the hierarchy of fair value measurements Represents the tabular disclosure and description of the three input levels in the hierarchy of fair value measurements. Schedule of Fair Value Measurement Input Levels [Table Text Block] Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment from Other Assets to Other Intangible Assets Net Reclassification from other assets to other intangible assets, net The amount of a reclassification adjustment from other assets to other intangible assets, net made to prior period financial statement amounts. Components of Noncash Extraordinary Gain [Abstract] Components of non-cash extraordinary gain Use of Estimates [Abstract] Use of Estimates The percentage of likelihood of realization that the tax position must exceed in order for the amount to be recognized in the financial statements. Tax Benefits Recognization Basis for Uncertain Tax Position Likelihood Realization Greater than Percentage Percentage of likelihood of realization that the tax position must exceed in order for the amount to be recognized Revenue Recognition Customer Relationship Period Low End of Range Customer relationship period over which revenue is recognized, low end of range (in months) Represents the minimum range of customer relationship period over which revenue is recognized. Maximum Original Maturity Period to Classify Short-term Investments as Cash Equivalents Maximum maturity at date of purchase of short term investments to be considered as cash equivalents (in months) Represents the maximum term of original maturity to classify short-term investments as cash equivalents. Accounts Receivable Period Past Due Period of accounts past due (in days) Represents the period over which accounts receivable are outstanding for it to be considered as accounts past due. Telephone Plant [Member] Telephone Plant Long lived, depreciable structure held for productive use, including telephone plant used in operations. Minimum Straight Line Depreciation Average Rate Minimum straight line depreciation average rate (as a percent) The minimum average straight line depreciation rate of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Net income and cash distributions attributable to noncontrolling interests, less than amount Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Upper Limit Represents the upper limit of the portion of net Income or Loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. Amount of Intercompany Revenues and Costs, Not Eliminated Amount of intercompany revenues and costs that were not eliminated, as allowed by the provisions of regulatory accounting Represents the amount of intercompany revenues and costs that were not eliminated in preparing the entity's financial statements, as previously allowed by the provisions of regulatory accounting. Revenue Recognition Customer Relationship Period High End of Range Customer relationship period over which revenue is recognized, high end of range (in years) Represents the maximum range of customer relationship period over which revenue is recognized. Maximum Weighted Average Maturity to Classify Investment Funds as Cash Equivalents Maximum weighted average maturity of investment funds to be considered as cash equivalents (in months) Represents the maximum term of weighted average maturity to classify investments funds as cash equivalents. Non-telephone Property Tangible property with finite lives including non-telephone property used in operations. Non Telephone, Property [Member] Maximum Straight Line Depreciation Average Rate Maximum straight line depreciation average rate (as a percent) The maximum average straight line depreciation rate of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Indefeasible Rights of Use Term Term of IRUs, which are the exclusive right to use a specified amount of capacity or fiber (in months/ years) Represents the term of indefeasible rights of use commonly referred to as IRUs, which are the exclusive right to use a specified amount of capacity or fiber. Straight Line Depreciation, Average Rate Straight line depreciation average rate (as a percent) Represents the average straight line depreciation rate of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Business Acquisition, Equity Interests Issued or Issuable Shares Issued Per Share of Acquiree. Share price of CenturyLink shares that Savvis shareholders received for each share of common stock owned at closing (in dollars per share) Represents the price per share issued by the entity for each share of the acquiree's common stock. Represents the number of shares issued by the acquiring entity for each share of the acquiree's common stock. Business Acquisition, Equity Interests Issued or Issuable Number of Shares Issued Per Share of Acquiree Number of CenturyLink shares that shareholders received for each share of common stock owned at closing Other Reporting Entity Legal Entity [Axis] The set of legal entities associated with an entity other than the reporting entity of the report. Share Price Price of a single share of a number of saleable stocks of a company. Closing stock price used to value shares issued for acquisition (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Share-based Compensation Assumed Estimated net value of pre-combination portion of share-based compensation awards assumed The amount of pre-combination share-based compensation assumed as part of the aggregate merger consideration. Business Acquisition, Portion of Assumed Share-based Compensation Paid in Cash Represents the portion of the aggregate consideration related to pre-combination share-based compensation that was paid in cash. Pre-combination portion of share-based compensation paid in cash Business Acquisition, Number of Access Lines Served by Acquiree Entity Number of access lines served by acquiree entity Represents the number of access lines served by the acquiree entity. Business Acquisition, Number of Broadband Subscribers Served by Acquiree Entity Number of broadband subscribers served by acquiree entity Represents the number of broadband subscribers served by the acquiree entity. Qwest and Savvis acquisitions Qwest and SAVVIS Acquisitions [Member] Represents Qwest Communications International, Inc., and Savvis, Inc., wholly-owned subsidiaries of the entity. Other Reporting Entity Legal Entity [Domain] The names of the entities associated with an entity other than the reporting entity of the report. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization Other Reporting Entity Former Parent Company of Acquiree [Member] Represents the legal entity that was the parent company (seller) of the entity that is being acquired (the acquiree) by the reporting entity (the acquirer). Qwest as separate legal entity parent of acquiree Pro forma revenue which would be eliminated had discontinuance of the application of regulatory accounting been effective Represents the amount of pro forma revenue that would have been eliminated upon discontinuance of the application of regulatory accounting been effective. Business Acquisitions, Pro Forma Revenue, Elimination on Discontinuance of Application of Regulatory Accounting Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss Increase (Decrease) in Tradename Increase (decrease) to tradename valuation Represents the increase (decrease) during the reporting period in tradenames. Business Acquisition, Period over which Acquisition Related Expenses Included Period over which acquisition related expense are included Represents the period over which acquisition related expense are included. Business Acquisition Transaction Expenses Incurred to Terminate Unused Financing Commitment Transaction expenses incurred in connection with terminating an unused loan financing commitment related to acquisition Represents the transaction expenses incurred in connection with terminating an unused loan financing commitment related to acquisition. Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated depreciation Increase (Decrease) in Cash Accounts Receivable and Other Current Assets Increase (decrease) in cash accounts receivable and other current assets Represents the increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash accounts receivable and other current assets. Business Acquisition Elimination of Time Phase Voting Structure Votes Per Share Votes per share under time-phase voting structure eliminated in connection with the acquisition Represents votes per share of persons who beneficially owned shares of the entity's common stock continuously since May 30, 1987 under time-phase voting structure eliminated in connection with the acquisition. Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Business Combination, Preacquisition Related Costs Merger-related pre-acquisition costs This element represents pre-acquisition related costs incurred to effect a business combination which are excluded from the combined results. Entity Voluntary Filers Business Acquisition, Common Stock Voting Rights, before Amendment Number of voting rights per common stock before amendments to the charter Represents the number of voting rights eligible per common stock before amending the charter in connection with the business combination. Entity Current Reporting Status Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity Transaction Costs Prior to Acquisition Merger-related pre-acquisition costs, prior to acquisition This element represents pre-acquisition related costs incurred prior to acquisition to effect a business combination which are excluded from the combined results. Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Entity Filer Category Common Stock, Shares Authorized, before Amendment Common stock, authorized shares before amendment Represents the maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by the entity's charter and bylaws before the amendment. Entity Public Float Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity Transaction Costs on Date of Acquisition Merger-related pre-acquisition costs, on the date of acquisition This element represents pre-acquisition related costs incurred on the date of acquisition to effect a business combination which costs are excluded from the combined results. Entity Registrant Name Business Acquisition, Common Stock Voting Rights, after Amendment Number of voting rights per common stock after amendments to the charter Represents number of voting rights eligible per common stock after amending the charter in connection with the business combination. Entity Central Index Key Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Right of Way Right of Way The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to right of way which is the legal right of the entity to pass over property owned by another party. Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Disclosure of the carrying value of amortizable finite-lived intangible assets, including the disclosure of the carrying value of indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class. Intangible assets Goodwill, Customer Relationships and Other Intangible Assets Finite and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 2011 Future Amortization Expense, Current Full Fiscal Year The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the full current fiscal year. Weighted Average Cost of Capital Discount Rate, Percent Represents the weighted average cost of capital to calculate discount rate as of the measurement date. Weighted average cost of capital to calculate discount rate as of the measurement date (as a percent) Represents the pre-tax cost of debt component used to determine weighted average cost of capital to calculate discount rate as of the measurement date. Cost of debt component of weighted average cost of capital (as a percent) Pretax Cost of Debt Percent Represents the cost of equity component used to determine weighted average cost of capital to calculate discount rate as of the measurement date. Cost of Equity Percent Pre-tax cost component of weighted average cost of capital (as a percent) Other Payments to Acquire Businesses Cash acquired in Qwest acquisition, cash paid Percentage of Reasonable Implied Control Premium Percentage of reasonable implied control premium Represents the percentage of reasonable implied control premium. Capital Lease and Other Obligations Amount equal to the present value (the principal) at the beginning of the lease term of minimum lease payments during the lease term (excluding that portion of the payments representing executory costs such as insurance, maintenance, and taxes to be paid by the lessor, together with any profit thereon) net of payments or other amounts applied to the principal through the balance sheet date. Includes other obligations. Capital lease and other obligations First Mortgage Bonds [Member] First mortgage bonds Represents the information pertaining to first mortgage bonds. Acquisition [Member] Acquisition of Savvis Acquisition Represents senior notes with an interest rate of 7.60%, Due 2039. Senior Notes 7.60 Percent Series P, Due 2039 [Member] 7.60% Senior Notes, Series P, due 2039 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.375%, Due June 1, 2051. Notes 7.375 Percent, Due 2051 [Member] 7.375% Notes due June 1, 2051 Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity before Acquisition Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility, prior to acquisition, without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity prior to acquisition of Qwest Principal Amount [Abstract] Principal Amount Debt Instrument Carrying Amount Noncurrent The aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date before deducting unamortized discount or premiums (if any). May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Long-term debt, excluding current maturities Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal Remainder of Fiscal Year Remainder of 2011 (classified as current) Amount of long-term debt maturing within the remainder of the fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Document Fiscal Year Focus Represents senior notes with an interest rate of 5.15%, Due 2017. Senior Notes 5.15 Percent Series R, Due 2017 [Member] 5.15% Senior Notes, Series R, due 2017 Document Fiscal Period Focus 6.75% Notes Due December 1, 2021 Represents notes with an interest rate of 6.75%, due December 1, 2021. Notes 6.75 Percent, due 2021 [Member] Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Fourth Full Fiscal Year Thereafter Amount of long-term debt maturing after the fourth full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Represents senior notes with an interest rate of 6.45%, Due 2021. Senior Notes 6.45 Percent Series S, Due 2021 [Member] 6.45% Senior Notes, Series S, due 2021 7.5% Notes due September 15, 2051 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.5%, due September 15, 2051. Notes 7.5 Percent, Due 2051 [Member] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Due First Full Fiscal Year Obligation related to long-term debt (excluding convertible debt) and capital leases, the portion within the first full fiscal year following the date of the most recent balance sheet presented in the financial statements which is classified as current. The portion of the aggregate maturities of long-term debt for the year ending December 31, 2012 which are classified as current 8.375% Notes Due 2016 Notes 8.375 Percent due 2016 [Member] Represents the notes with an interest rate of 8.375 percent, due in 2016. 8.875% Notes due March 15, 2012 Represents notes with an interest rate of 8.875%, due March 15, 2012. Notes 8.875 Percent, Due 2012 [Member] Carrying Amount [Abstract] Carrying Amount Represents an uncommitted revolving credit facility available for issuances of letters of credit. Uncommitted Revolving Letter of Credit Facility [Member] Uncommitted revolving letter of credit facility Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.875%, Due 2011. Notes 7.875 Percent, Due 2011 [Member] 7.875% Notes due 2011 Legal Entity [Axis] Represents debentures issued by the reporting entity. Debentures [Member] Debentures Document Type Debt Instrument Basis, Spread on Variable Rate, Low End of Range Interest rate added to base, low end of range (as a percent) The low end of the range of percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. Debt Instrument Basis, Spread on Variable Rate, High End of Range Interest rate added to base, high end of range (as a percent) The high end of the range of percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. Entity Number of Employees Number of employees covered under the agreement Number of banks from which commitment letters received The number of commitment letters received from banks to provide bridge financing for acquisition. Debt Instrument, Number of Banks from which Commitment Letters Received Number of subsidiaries (in entities) Represents the number of subsidiaries of the entity. Number of Subsidiaries Aggregate Amount of Debt Instrument over which Provisions of Cross Acceleration Relating to Other Debt Obligations are Applicable Aggregate amount of debt instrument over which provisions of cross acceleration relating to other debt obligations are applicable Represents the aggregate amount of debt instrument over which provisions of cross acceleration relating to other debt obligations are applicable. Percentage of Net Tangible Assets Allowed to Secure Notes Percentage of consolidated net tangible assets allowed to secure senior notes. Percentage of net tangible assets allowed to secure senior notes Percentage of Property Plant and Equipment of Parent Company Pledged to Secure Long-term Debt Of Subsidiaries Percentage of property, plant and equipment of the parent company that is pledged to secure outstanding first mortgage bonds or unsecured debentures of subsidiaries. Percentage of property, plant and equipment of parent company that is pledged to secure long-term debt of subsidiaries Debt Instrument Covenant Debt to EBITDA Ratio Debt to EBITDA ratio to be maintained under the Credit Facility Represents the ratio of debt to EBITDA (i.e. earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined in the Credit Facility) to be maintained under the covenant. Additional Paid in Capital Additional paid-in capital Lease Term Remaining lease terms (in years) Represents the remaining lease term. Restructuring Reserve Liabilities Assumed in Business Acquisition Liabilities assumed in acquisition Represents liability, associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructuring pursuant to a duly authorized plan, assumed during the acquisition of an entity wherein the acquiring entity obtains control over the acquired entity. Share-based Compensation, Related to Accelerated Vesting of Stock Awards Share-based compensation associated with accelerated vesting of stock awards The share-based compensation, included in severance expenses, related to accelerated vesting of stock awards. Funding Status of Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Disclosures about status of a defined benefit plan. Funding Status [Domain] Represents the status of a defined benefit plan. Unfunded Qwest Plans [Member] Qwest sponsored defined benefit plans Represents unfunded status of the Qwest sponsored defined benefit plans. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan [Member] Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Represents the defined benefit pension plan sponsored for executives that provide certain officers with supplemental retirement, death and disability benefits. Interest Rate Sensitive Investments [Member] Interest rate sensitive investments Represents the investment in a interest rate sensitive investments. Investment Grade Bonds [Member] Investment grade bonds Represents the investments in fixed income securities as well as commingled bond funds with characteristics similar to the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. Interest Rate Investments with Higher Returns [Member] Interest rate investments with higher returns Represents the investment in a interest rate sensitive investments with higher returns compared to interest rate sensitive investments. Domestic Equity Securities [Member] U.S. stocks Represents the defined benefit plan assets invested in domestic equity securities. Defined Benefit Plan, Net Amortization and Deferral Net amortization and deferral Represents the aggregate amount of net amortization and deferral recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization Period of Plan Shortfall Amortization period of the plan shortfall (in years) Represents the amortization period of the defined benefit plan shortfall. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Health Care Cost Trend Rate Annual decrease in health care cost trend rate (as a percent) Represents the annual change in the assumed trend rate(s) starting after one year from the current statement of financial position date. Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Target allocation of investments of this type to total plan assets presented on a weighted average basis. Target asset allocation percentage Legacy Embarq Pension Plan [Member] Legacy Embarq Pension plan Represents the defined benefit pension plan sponsored for legacy Embarq employees. The benefit plan obligations and plan assets associated with the legacy Embarq pension plan were re-measured as of July 1, 2009. High Yield and Emerging Market Bonds [Member] Represents the investments in below investment grade fixed income securities as well as commingled high yield bond funds. Also includes the investments in securities issued by governments and other entities located in developing countries as well as commingled emerging market bond funds. High yield and emerging market bonds Foreign Equity Securities [Member] Non-U.S. stocks Represents the defined benefit plan assets invested in foreign equity securities. Developed market Non-U.S. stocks Defined Benefit Plan Amortization of Prior Service Cost Credit and Gains (Losses) Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost The amount of the gains or losses and prior service cost or credit recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation Convertible Bonds [Member] Convertible bonds Represents the investments in corporate debt securities that have features that allow the debt to be converted into equity securities under certain circumstances. Represents investments in a registered mutual fund and commingled funds comprising of stocks of companies located in developing markets. Emerging Market Stocks [Member] Emerging market stocks Initial health care cost trend rate (as a percent) Represents the health care cost trend rate. Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost, Trend Rate Diversified Strategies [Member] Diversified strategies Represents the investment in a commingled fund that primarily has exposures to global government, corporate and inflation linked bonds, global stocks and commodities. Percentage of plan assets allocated to non-equity investments Target allocation percentage of investments in non-equity investments to total plan assets presented on a weighted-average basis as of the measurement date of the latest statement of financial position. Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation, Percentage of Assets Non Equity Securities Assets Other [Member] Other Represents other assets not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Defined Benefit Plan, Contractual Retirement Benefits Contractual retirement benefits Represents the amount of the contractual retirement benefit recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Contribution This represents the projected contribution amount for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans. Future contribution Defined Benefit Plan, Period Reimbursement of Occupational Post Retirement, Health Care Costs Through Plan Assets Period for reimbursement of occupational post-retirement health care costs (in years) Represents the period for reimbursement of occupational post-retirement health care costs. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation Benefits Paid by Company Total Benefits paid by the company Changes in the benefit obligation for defined benefit plans due to total benefits paid, which includes benefits paid directly by the company. Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation Benefits from Plan Assets Total Benefits paid from plan assets Changes in the benefit obligation for defined benefit plans due to total benefits paid, which includes benefits paid from plan assets. Depreciation expense Depreciation Depreciation expense Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation Benefits Paid, Total Changes in the benefit obligation for defined benefit plans due to total benefits paid, which includes benefits paid from plan assets and ones paid directly by the company. Benefits paid Represents the permitted investment of plan assets in securities issued by the sponsor company. Permitted investment in securities issued by the sponsor company (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets Permitted, Investment in Securities Issued by Sponsor Company Income (Loss) before Extraordinary Item Applicable to Unvested Restricted Stock Awards Represents the amount of income (loss) before extraordinary items applicable to unvested restricted stock awards during the reporting period. Earnings applicable to non-vested restricted stock Weighted Average Number of Shares Restricted Stock Units Non-vested restricted stock units (in shares) Number of shares of unvested restricted stock units determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that unvested restricted stock units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Distributions from unconsolidated cellular entity Earnings Applicable to Unvested Restricted Stock Awards [Abstract] Earnings applicable to nonvested restricted stock: Sale of Investment [Member] Sale of investment Represents the sale of investment holding by the entity. Available-for-Sale Securities Accreted Carrying Value of Securities Sold Accreted carrying value of securities sold Represents the accreted carrying value of the available for sale securities sold by the entity. Available-for-Sale Securities Fair Value of Securities Sold Fair value of securities sold Represents the fair value of the available for sale securities sold by the entity. Available-for-Sale Securities Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to Earnings Loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income Represents the amount of gain or loss on available for sale securities reclassified from the accumulated other comprehensive income loss to earnings. Segment Margin Percentage Represents the operating margin assigned to segments for the period. Margin percentage Number of Operating Segments Number of operating segments Represents the number of operating segments of the entity. Number of Organizations Number of organizations Represents the number of organizations. Universal Service Taxes and Surcharges Amount of the universal taxes and surcharges that are reflected in the statement of income (included in both operating revenues and expenses). Surcharge amount on customers' bills Revenues Number of Groups of Products and Services Number of groups of products and services Represents the number of groups of products and services of the reporting entity. Voice [Member] Voice Represents the voice which included local calling service to residential and business customers within the entity's local service areas, generally for a fixed monthly charge. Data [Member] Data Represents the data service which included data revenues primarily from monthly recurring charges for providing broadband access services and switched digital television services. Network Access [Member] Network access Represents the network access service which included data revenues primarily from monthly recurring charges for providing broadband access services, data transmission services over special circuits and private lines and switched digital television services. Other Products and Services [Member] Other Represents the products and services other than voice, data and network access services provided by the reporting entity. Threshold for Disclosure Percentage Maximum percentage of total operating revenue from single customer Threshold percentage which the entity uses for disclosure. Litigation Matters Assumed in Qwest Acquisition [Abstract] Litigation Matters Assumed in Qwest Acquisition Effect of Modifications Made to Benefits Programs Greater Than Effect of modifications made to Embarq's benefits program, greater than Reduction to the liability for retiree benefits at the time of the modifications made to Embarq's benefits program is greater than this amount. Number of Plaintiffs Number of plaintiffs have alleged breach of fiduciary duty Represents the number of plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed. Two Dutch companies, Qwest and Koninklijke N.V. involved in lawsuit. VEB Veb [Member] Capital Leased Assets Acquired During Period Assets acquired through capital leases Represents the amount of assets acquired through capital lease arrangements during the period. Purchase obligations Purchase Obligation [Abstract] Life Insurance Benefit Reduced for Certain Retirees Amount that life insurance benefit was reduced to for certain retirees Disclosure of the amount that life insurance benefits were reduced to for certain retirees that is now subject to a putative class action. Period of Litigation Stayed Period litigation is stayed (in months) The number of months the Court stayed the litigation. Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase Current Contractually required purchase commitments, due within one year of the balance sheet date. 2012 Number of Lawsuits Tried Number of lawsuits tried The number of lawsuits tried during the period. Cash payments towards capital leases Represents the cash outflow during the period towards the capital lease obligations of the entity. Payments Towards Capital Lease Obligations 2013 Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase in Two Years Contractually required purchase commitments, due within the second year from the balance sheet date. Retiree Benefits Programs Minimum Reduction in Estimated Future Expenses at Time of Modifications Minimum reduction in estimated future expenses for the subject benefits at the time of the modifications in retiree benefits programs Represents the minimum reduction in estimated future expenses for the subject benefits at the time of the modifications in retiree benefits programs. 2014 Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase in Three Years Contractually required purchase commitments, due within the third year from the balance sheet date. Number of Former Executives Involved in Arbitration Proceedings Number of former Centel executives involved in arbitration proceeding Number of former Centel executives involved in arbitration proceeding for a ruling given in Embarq's favor challenging the benefits changes. Operating Leases, Renewal Period Minimum Represents the minimum number of renewal periods under operating leases Represents the minimum number of renewal periods under operating leases. 2015 Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase in Four Years Contractually required purchase commitments, due within the fourth year from the balance sheet date. Group of Plaintiffs Filing for Consolidation of Federal Actions The number of groups of plaintiffs who filed a motion the judicial panel seeking consolidation of all federal actions in the case. Group of plaintiffs in favor of consolidating motion 2016 Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase in Five Years Contractually required purchase commitments, due within the fifth year from the balance sheet date. Group of Plaintiffs Opposed to Consolidation of Federal Actions Standing in a group of plaintiffs opposed to consolidating motion The standing of group of plaintiffs who were opposed to the filing of a motion with the judicial panel seeking consolidation of all federal actions in the case. 2017 and thereafter Significant Purchase Commitment Minimum Purchase Thereafter Contractually required purchase commitments, after the fifth year from the balance sheet date. Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Executory Costs and Interest Included in Payments Less: amount representing interest and executory costs Represents the amounts to be paid by lessee to lessor for maintenance, insurance, and tax expenses related to the leased asset and amount necessary to reduce net minimum lease payments to present value calculated at the lesser of the interest rate implicit in the lease (if known) or the entity's incremental borrowing rate (as defined) at inception of the lease. Percentage of Employees who are Members of Various Bargaining Units Percentage of employees who are members of bargaining units Represents the percentage of employees who are members of various bargaining units represented by the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Collective Bargaining Agreements Term Collective bargaining agreements, term (in years) Represents the term of the collective bargaining agreements of the entity. Acquisition of Qwest Acquisition of Qwest The entire disclosure for a pending acquisition, including background and timing. Pending Business Acquisition Disclosure [Text Block] Defined Benefits Retirement Plans Defined Benefit and Other Retirement Plans Disclosure [Text Block] Description containing the entire pension benefits disclosure as a single block of text. Also includes disclosure of the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and qualified profit sharing plans pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Defined Benefits Retirement Plans Postretirement Benefits Description containing the entire postretirement benefits disclosure as a single block of text. Postretirement Benefits Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinuance of Regulatory Accounting Discontinuance of Regulatory Accounting Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinuance of Regulatory Accounting Describes the entity's reasons for its discontinuation of accounting for the effects of certain types of regulation (primarily costs pertaining to rate-setting) and identifies the portion of its operations to which such application was discontinued. Disclosure of the components of the extraordinary gain recorded and other effects of the discontinuance of regulatory accounting. Accounts Receivable Advertising Expense Advertising expense Accounts Receivable Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable Amounts due from customers or clients collected for the services rendered. Dividends Dividends Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends The entire disclosure for cash dividends declared and non-cash dividends payable during the reporting period. Schedule of Pending Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule reflecting each material business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) pending at the end of the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. Pending Business Acquisition [Axis] Information about each business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) pending at the end of the period. Pending Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Identification of the acquiree in a pending material business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations), which may include the name or other type of identification of the acquiree. Pending Acquisition of Savvis Pending Business Acquisition [Line Items] Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs Business Acquisition, Pending Consideration Cash Payable Per Share Represents the amount of cash to be paid per share of acquiree's common stock. Cash to be received by Savvis shareholders in exchange for each share of Savvis common stock (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pending Consideration Equity Interests Value Per Share Represents the exchange value of the entity's stock to be paid per share of acquiree's common stock. Value of shares to be received by Savvis shareholders in exchange for each share of Savvis common stock (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pending Consideration Trading Days Prior to Closing to Calculate Average Price of Common Stock Number Number of consecutive trading days, prior to closing, used to calculate the average price of the entity's common stock for adjustments to the purchase price of the acquisition. Period of consecutive trading days prior to closing used to calculate the average price of the entity's common stock (number of days) Business Acquisition Pending Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price Excluding Debt Assumed The cost of the pending acquisition excluding the debt assumed. Expected cost of acquisition Schedule of Cost of Acquired Entity [Table Text Block] Schedule of aggregate consideration consisting of cash and CenturyLink equity Tabular disclosure of the aggregate consideration for the acquisition consisting of cash and CenturyLink equity. Income Tax Expense in Consolidated Statements of Income [Abstract] Income tax expense in the consolidated statements of income: Postretirement and pension benefit costs Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Pensions and Postretirement Benefits The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from pension and postretirement benefits, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when actual costs are incurred, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Alternative Minimum Tax Credit [Member] Alternative minimum tax credits Represents the alternative minimum tax credits available to the entity to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Tax Credit Carryforward Amount, Net of Federal Income Tax Tax credit carryforwards, net of federal income tax The amount of the tax credit carryforward, after tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Unrecognized Tax Benefits Pertaining to Business Acquisitions Assumed in Qwest and Savvis acquisitions Represents the impact on unrecognized tax benefits from the acquisition of the business. Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to the change under enacted tax laws for Medicare prescription drug benefits. Change in tax treatment of Medicare subsidy (as a percent) Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Including Extraordinary Items Represents the sum of the current income tax expense (benefit) and the deferred income tax expense (benefit), including portion attributable to extraordinary item, pertaining to pre-tax income; income tax expense (benefit) may include interest and penalties on tax uncertainties based on the entity's accounting policy. Total income tax expense Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Compensation Pursuant to Executive Compensation Limitations The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate that can be explained by nondeductible compensation pursuant to executive compensation limitations. Nondeductible compensation pursuant to executive compensation limitations (as a percent) Recognition of Additional Income Tax Expense Related to Nondeductible Acquisition Transaction Cost Non-deductible transaction cost associated with recent acquisitions. Recognition of additional income tax expense due to non-deductible transaction cost related to recent acquisitions Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Income Taxes Asset (Liability) Net Noncurrent Portion Current portion of amount of deferred tax assets or liabilities for the differences between the values assigned and the tax bases of assets and liabilities in a business combination. Net noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Income Taxes Asset (Liability) Net Current Portion Current portion of amount of deferred tax assets or liabilities for the differences between the values assigned and the tax bases of assets and liabilities in a business combination. Net current deferred tax asset recognized in connection with Qwest acquisition Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Asset Change in Amount Future Income of a Special Character Deferred tax asset valuation allowance from future income of a special character The amount of the change in the period in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset that require future income of a special character to realize the benefits. Unrecognized Tax Benefits Decreases Resulting from Settlements upon Dismissal of Refund Appeal Settlement recorded upon dismissal of refund appeal Represents the gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from settlements upon dismissal of refund claims of the entity. Unrecognized Tax Benefits Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Due to Withdrawal of Claims by Business Acquiree Settlement decrease in unrecognized tax benefits due to withdrawal of Qwest's claims associated with the treatment of universal services fund receipts The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from settlements with taxing authorities due to withdrawal of claims by business acquiree. Operating Loss Carry forward [Abstract] Operating Loss Carryforward Increase in Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) Net Noncurrent Increase in net noncurrent deferred tax liability in connection with Qwest acquisition The increase in the net noncurrent portion of deferred tax assets and liabilities. Decrease in Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) Net Noncurrent The decrease in the net noncurrent portion of deferred tax assets and liabilities. Reduction in net noncurrent deferred tax liability in connection with Qwest acquisition Recognition of Additional Income Tax Expense Related to Nondeductible Merger Transaction Cost Portion of Embarq merger related cost that is non-deductible for income tax purposes. Recognition of additional income tax expense related to non-deductible Embarq merger-related cost Amount Representing Refund Claims The amount representing refund claims as of the balance sheet date. Due to the uncertainty of these refund claims, the impact of these claims is not recognized to current or deferred taxes in the consolidated financial statements. Amount representing refund claims Charge Related to Change in Tax Treatment Medicare Part D Portion of the tax expense related to the change in the tax treatment of the Medicare Part D subsidy as a result of comprehensive health care reform legislation signed into law. Charge related to the change in tax treatment of Medicare Part D Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accounts receivable, allowance (in dollars) Less allowance for doubtful accounts Recognition of additional income tax expense related to non-deductible lump sum distribution under the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Recognition of Additional Income Tax Expense Related to Nondeductible Lump Sum Distribution Under Serp Represents non-deductible executive compensation amounts, including distributions paid to certain executive officers upon discontinuing the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Current [Member] Allowance for doubtful accounts Remaining gross balance, other than refund claims The portion of unrecognized tax benefits excluding the amount representing refund claims, as of the balance sheet date. Remaining Gross Balance Other than Refund Claims The amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits that is included as a component of "Deferred credits and other liabilities" as of the balance sheet date. Portion of gross unrecognized tax benefits included as a component of deferred credits and other liabilities Portion of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Included as Component of Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities State Jurisdiction Florida [Member] The designated tax department of Florida entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Florida State Jurisdiction Georgia [Member] The designated tax department of Georgia entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Georgia State Jurisdiction Louisiana [Member] The designated tax department of Louisiana entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Louisiana State Jurisdiction North Carolina [Member] The designated tax department of North Carolina entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: North Carolina State Jurisdiction Oregon [Member] The designated tax department of Oregon entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Oregon State Jurisdiction Texas [Member] The designated tax department of Texas entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Texas State Jurisdiction Other States [Member] The designated tax department of other states entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. State Jurisdiction: Other states Income Tax Expense Allocation [Table Text Block] Disclosure of allocation of tax expense between the components of income and stockholders' equity. Schedule of income tax expense allocation Income Tax Expense [Text Block] Disclosure of the components of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations. Income tax expense Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Text Block] Disclosure of the reconciliation between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate applicable under enacted tax laws. Income tax rate reconciliation Net Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Text Block] Disclosure of the components of the net deferred tax assets and liabilities, and classification in the accompanying balance sheet. Net deferred tax assets and liabilities Other Current Liabilities Other Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Schedule of Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of prepaid and other expense Tabular disclosure of prepaid expenses and other current assets not separately disclosed on the balance sheet. Schedule of Other Liabilities Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of other current liabilities Tabular disclosure of other current liabilities not separately disclosed on the balance sheet. Accounts Receivables Trade Current Trade receivables Represents the amounts due from customers (or dealers) within the next year (or operating cycle, if longer) for goods or services that have been delivered or used, but not yet paid. Schedule of Provision for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Table Text Block] Schedule of details of allowance for doubtful accounts Tabular disclosure of the provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable. The accounting for the taxes and surcharges collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities, including USF charges, sales, use, value added and some excise taxes. USF, Gross Receipts Taxes and Other Surcharges Taxes and Surcharges Collected from Customers Policy Discontinuance of Regulatory Accounting [Policy Text Block] Discontinuance of regulatory accounting Describes the entity's accounting policy for discontinuance of regulatory accounting requirements, upon the conversion of substantially all rate-of-return study areas to federal price cap regulation. Number of Geographic Operating Regions Number of geographic operating regions prior to Qwest acquisition Represents the number of geographic operating regions of the entity prior to Qwest acquisition. Integrated Billing and Customer Care System [Member] Integrated billing and customer care system Represents the capitalized cost to develop integrated billing and customer care system. Common Stock Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance [Table] Information on common stock reserved for future issuance. Incentive compensation programs Represents information pertaining to incentive compensation programs of the entity. Incentive Compensation Programs [Member] Common stock Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance [Line Items] Dividend Reinvestment Plan [Member] Represents information pertaining to dividend reinvestment plans of the entity. Dividend reinvestment plan Notes 7.5 Percent Due 2014 [Member] 7.500% notes due February 15, 2014 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.5%, due February 15, 2014. Components of Noncash Extraordinary Gain [Table Text Block] Components of non-cash extraordinary gain Tabular disclosure of the components of the non-cash extraordinary gain recorded in the consolidated statements of income upon the discontinuance of regulatory accounting. Elimination of Removal Costs Embedded in Accumulated Depreciation Elimination of removal costs embedded in accumulated depreciation Non-cash extraordinary gain from the elimination of removal costs embedded in accumulated depreciation recorded upon discontinuance of regulatory accounting. Establishment of Asset Retirement Obligation Non cash extraordinary loss on the establishment of an asset retirement obligation upon the discontinuance of regulatory accounting. Establishment of asset retirement obligation Elimination of Other Regulatory Assets and Liabilities Non cash extraordinary loss on elimination of other regulatory assets and liabilities upon the discontinuance of regulatory accounting. Elimination of other regulatory assets and liabilities Fiber Conduit and Other Outside Plant [Member] Fiber, conduit and other outside plant Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include fiber, conduit and other outside plant. Central Office and Other Network Electronics [Member] Central office and other network electronics Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include central office and other network electronics. General Support [Member] Support assets Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include general support. Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities Assumed Liabilities assumed in Qwest and Savvis acquisitions Amount of asset retirement obligations assumed in business acquisitions during the period. Cable and Wire [Member] Cable and wire Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include cable and wire. Asset Retirement Obligation Increase (Decrease) in Obligation for Removal of Network Equipment Reduction of asset retirement obligation for removal of network equipment in Qwest leased space Represents the increase or decrease during the period in the asset retirement obligations for removal of network equipments. Central Office [Member] Central office Represents long-lived depreciable assets that include central office inside the plant with digital switching and transmission equipment. Asset Retirement Obligation Increase (Decrease) in Obligation for Removal of Asbestos Reduction of asset retirement obligation for removal of asbestos in CenturyLink properties Represents the increase or decrease during the period in the asset retirement obligations for removal of asbestos. Fiber Transport [Member] Fiber transport Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include fiber transport. Asset Retirement Obligation Increase (Decrease) Due to Revision of Other Cost Estimates and Timing of Costs Additional reduction to the asset retirement obligation due to revision of cost estimates and the timing of costs Represents the increase or decrease during the period in the asset retirement obligations due to revision of other cost estimates and timing of those costs. Information Origination Termination [Member] Information origination/termination Represents the long-lived depreciable assets that include information origination/termination. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, by Title of Individuals [Axis] Reflects the pertinent provisions pertaining to share-based compensation arrangements with personnel, by individual or group of individuals. The arrangements are generally based on employment contracts between the entity and one or more selected officers or key employees. Title of Individuals with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Title of the individual or group of individuals who receive awards under the entity's share-based compensation arrangements. Executive Officers And Other Key Employees Executive officers and other key employees of the entity. Executive Officers and Other Key Employees [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Option Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Aggregate Intrinsic value Increase (decrease) in amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Weighted-average remaining contractual term Restricted Stock Awards [Abstract] Restricted stock awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards Restricted stock are shares of stock for which sale is contractually or governmentally restricted for a given period of time. Also includes restricted stock units (RSUs) which are awarded by a company to their employees as a form of incentive compensation. Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Key Employees And Outside Directors Key employees of the entity and individuals serving on the board of directors. Key Employees and Outside Directors [Member] Number of Recurring Months During which Discount on Stock Price for Employee Stock Purchase Plan is Based Period during which lower of beginning and ending stock price is considered for purchase of common stock at discount (in months) Period during which lower of beginning and ending stock price is considered for purchase of common stock under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options Assumed in Business Acquisition Assumed in acquisition (in shares) Represents the number of share options (or share units) assumed during the acquisition of an entity wherein the acquiring entity obtains control over the acquired entity. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options Assumed in Business Acquisition Weighted Average Exercise Price Assumed in acquisition (in dollars per share) Represents the weighted-average exercise price of stock options assumed during the acquisition of an entity wherein the acquiring entity obtains control over the acquired entity. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments, Other Than Options Period for Which Shareholder Return Considered for Performance Conditions Period over which total shareholder return will be considered for determining satisfaction of specific performance conditions (in years) Represents the period for which the shareholder return is considered as a base for determining whether or not the performance conditions associated with equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, are met. Business Acquisition, Conversion of Stock Options Vested of Acquiree Entity, Options Converted Number of fully vested CenturyLink stock options issued upon conversion of stock options (in shares) Represents the number of non-qualified fully vested stock options of the acquiring entity issued from the conversion of shares of the acquiree entity outstanding immediately prior to acquisition. Award Vesting on Anniversary of Closing Date Installment One The anniversary, from the closing date, upon which the first installment of the award vests. The anniversary, from closing date, upon which the first installment of the award vests (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Assumed in Business Acquisition Assumed in acquisition (in shares) Represents the number of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan) assumed during the acquisition of an entity wherein the acquiring entity obtains control over the acquired entity. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Assumed in Business Acquisition Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Assumed in acquisition (in dollars per share) Represents the weighted-average fair value of nonvested equity-based awards assumed in the business acquisition on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Business Acquisition, Common Stock Shares Issued to Settle Market-based Awards, Outstanding of Acquiree Entity Common stock issued to settle market-based award outstanding immediately prior to acquisition (in shares) Represents the common stock issued to settle market-based award outstanding immediately prior to acquisition. Award Vesting on Anniversary of Closing Date Installment Two The anniversary, from the closing date, upon which the second installment of the award vests. The anniversary, from closing date, upon which the second installment of the award vests (in years) Service Based Restricted Stock [Member] Service based restricted stock Shares of restricted stock that vest over time only if certain service related conditions are met. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Assumed in Business Acquisition, Fair Value Fair value of awards assumed Represents the fair value of equity-based compensation awards assumed as part of the acquisition. Award Vesting on Anniversary of Closing Date Installment Three The anniversary, from the closing date, upon which the third installment of the award vests. The anniversary, from closing date, upon which the third installment of the award vests (in years) Time-vested restricted stock Shares of restricted stock that vest over specified time periods. Time Vested, Restricted Stock [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Assumed in Business Acquisition, Attributable to Preacquisition Services, Fair Value Fair value of assumed awards attributable to services performed prior to acquisition Represents the fair value of equity-based compensation awards assumed as part of the acquisition and attributable to services performed prior to the acquisition. Performance Based Restricted Stock Shares of restricted stock that vest over time only if specific performance measures are met. The shares are performance-vested as opposed to time-vested. Performance-based, Restricted Stock [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Assumed in Business Acquisition Remaining Fair Value Attributable to Post Acquisition Services Represents the aggregate fair value of the assumed awards attributable to post-acquisition services. Remaining aggregate fair value of the assumed awards attributable to post-acquisition services Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Assumed in Business Acquisition Remaining Fair Value Period for Recognition Period of recognition over remaining vesting period of aggregate fair value of the assumed awards attributable to post-acquisition services (in years) Represents the period of recognition over remaining vesting period of aggregate fair value of the assumed awards attributable to post-acquisition services. Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Portion Vesting at First and Second Vesting Dates Portion of an award that is no longer contingent on satisfaction of a performance condition under the plan. Portion of award scheduled to vest in March 2012 with the remainder to vest in March 2013 Business Acquisition, Conversion of Stock Options Outstanding of Acquiree Entity, Options Converted Number of non-qualified CenturyLink stock options outstanding upon conversion of stock options (in shares) Represents the number of non-qualified stock options of the acquiring entity issued from the conversion of shares of the acquiree entity outstanding immediately prior to acquisition. Period of Shareholder Return on which Awards will Vest at First Vesting Date Two-year performance measure which must be met during the applicable vesting period to trigger time-vesting. Performance measures pertain to the entity's shareholder return relative to total shareholder return of the companies comprising the S and P 500 index during the same period. Period over which total shareholder return will be assessed to determine vesting in March 2012 (in years) Business Acquisition, Conversion of Nonvested Shares of Acquiree Entity, Shares Converted Number of shares of nonvested CenturyLink restricted stock issued upon conversion of restricted stock Represents the number of nonvested shares of the acquiring entity issued from the conversion of nonvested shares of the acquiree entity outstanding immediately prior to the acquisition. Period of Shareholder Return on which Awards will Vest at Second Vesting Date Three-year performance measure which must be met during the applicable vesting period to trigger time-vesting. Performance measures pertain to the entity's shareholder return relative to total shareholder return of the companies comprising the S and P 500 index during the same period. Period over which total shareholder return will be assessed to determine vesting in March 2013 (in years) Percentage of Target Award Percentage of target award Represents the percentage of the target award each recipient has the opportunity to receive if performance measures are met. Incoming Executive Officer Incoming executive officers of the entity as a result of acquisitions and mergers. Incoming Executive Officer [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Closing Traded Price Represents the closing traded price of the entity's common stock, considered in determination of the fair value of entity's shares in business acquisition. Closing traded price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Grants in Period Awards granted (in shares) The number of shares issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to grants made during the period (for example, phantom stock plan, stock appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Deferred Compensation, Cash-based Arrangement, as Part of Retention Program in Connection with Acquisition Deferred cash compensation awards awarded to certain executive officers and other key employees as part of a retention program in connection with the pending acquisition of Qwest. Deferred cash compensation awards granted as part of a retention program in connection with the pending acquisition of Qwest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period, Outside Directors Description of the period of time over which an outside directors' right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of either a service condition, market condition or a performance condition, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Award vesting period, outside directors Compensation Costs Accelerated Recognition of Awards Represents the compensation costs recognized for accelerated recognition of certain awards resulting from the consummation of an acquisition. Compensation costs recognized as a result of accelerated recognition of certain awards Executive Level Employees [Member] Executive-level employees Represents the employees of the entity holding executive positions. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Minimum Award Vesting Period for Employees Description of the minimum period of time over which an employee's right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of either a service condition, market condition or a performance condition, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Minimum vesting period for employees (in years) Deferred Compensation, Cash-based Arrangement, Fraction of Award to be Received on Closing Date of Merger Description of deferred cash award terms as to what fraction of the award each employee will be entitled to receive on the closing date of the Qwest merger, with the remainder on the first anniversary of the closing date. Fraction of deferred cash award each recipient will receive on the closing date of the Qwest merger Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Employee, Performance-based Description of the period of time over which an employee's right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of certain performance measures, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Award vesting period, other employees subject to performance measures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Award Vesting Period for Employees Description of the maximum period of time over which an employee's right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of either a service condition, market condition or a performance condition, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Maximum vesting period for employees (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Vesting Period for Outside Directors Description of the period of time over which an outside director's right to exercise an award is no longer contingent on satisfaction of either a service condition, market condition or a performance condition, which may be expressed in a variety of ways (for example, in years, month and year). Vesting period for outside directors (in years) Percentage of Target Award, Minimum Range The minimum percentage of the target award each recipient has the opportunity to receive if performance measures are met. Percentage of target award, minimum range (as a percent) Percentage of Target Award, Maximum Range The maximum percentage of the target award each recipient has the opportunity to receive if performance measures are met. Percentage of target award, maximum range (as a percent) Schedule of Capital Lease Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of capital lease activity Tabular disclosure of the capital lease activity. The disclosure may include details of assets acquired through capital leases during the period, depreciation expenses recorded during the period on capital leased assets, cash payments during the period against capital lease obligations, gross and net amounts of capital leased assets held as of the balance sheet date and related accumulated depreciation. Exchange Traded Domestic Equity Futures [Member] Exchange-traded U.S. equity futures Represents the defined benefit plan assets invested in exchange-traded domestic equity securities. Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) after Tax [Abstract] Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income at the beginning of the period Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income at the end of the period Net change in AOCI Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net Gains (Losses) Net actuarial (loss) gain Represents the net change in gains (losses) under accumulated other comprehensive income. Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care and Life Insurance [Abstract] Health Care and Life Insurance Defined Benefit Plan, Active Health Care Benefit (Expenses) Active health care benefit expenses Represents the active health care benefit expenses. Exchange Traded Foreign Equity Futures [Member] Exchange-traded non-U.S. equity futures Represents the defined benefit plan assets invested in exchange-traded foreign equity securities. Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets before Securities Lending Obligation Total investments Represents the fair value of plan assets including securities lending collateral, but prior to deducting the securities lending obligation. Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net Prior Service Cost, Credit Prior service (cost) benefit Represents the net change in prior service benefit (cost) under accumulated other comprehensive income. Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Participating Management Employees Contribution Participating management employees' contribution to health care plan Represents the contribution made by participating management employees under the health care defined benefit plan. Exchange Traded Treasury Futures [Member] Exchange-traded Treasury futures Represents the defined benefit plan assets invested in exchange-traded treasury futures. Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax benefit (expense) The amount of the deferred income tax benefit (expense) recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Dividends and Interest Receivable Dividends and interest receivable Represents the fair value of dividends and interest receivable under plan assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Other Gain before Tax Other gain, before tax Amount related to the pretax cost of benefit changes attributable to other gain pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation, which has not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost. Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plan, Net Other Gain (Loss) Arising During Period Before Tax Other gain, net The pretax gain (loss) related to benefit changes attributable to other events that occurred during the period. The gain (loss) has not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Deferred Income Tax Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Represents the net change in deferred income tax (expense) benefit under accumulated other comprehensive income. Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Deferred Income Tax Benefit (Expense) Deferred income tax benefit The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income related to deferred income tax benefit (expense) expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year that follows the most recent annual statement of financial position presented. Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Participating Occupational Employees Contribution Participating occupational employees' contribution to health care plan Represents the contribution made by participating occupational employees under the health care defined benefit plan. Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification of Defined Benefit Plans Net, Gain (Loss) and Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net of Tax Net of tax amount of the income statement impact of the reclassification adjustment for actuarial (gains) losses and prior service costs recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost. Net periodic (income) expense Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Pending Trades Receivable Pending trades receivable Represents the fair value of pending trades receivable under plan assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Deferred Income Tax (Benefit) Expense Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Amount related to the pretax cost of benefit changes attributable to deferred income tax benefit (expense) pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation, which has not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost. Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Net, Unamortized Gain (Loss) and Net, Prior Service Cost Credit Arising During Period Tax Impact Tax impact of the change in the value of either the benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption, or the consequence of a decision to temporarily deviate from the substantive plan, that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. Also includes the tax impact of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan amendment or plan initiation that occurred during the period. The cost has not yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. A plan amendment includes provisions that grant increased (decreased) benefits based on service rendered in prior periods. Deferred income tax benefit (expense) Defined Benefit Plan, Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Total Represents the net change in accumulated other comprehensive income. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Accrued Expenses Accrued expenses Represents the fair value of accrued expenses under plan assets. Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Net, Unamortized Gain (Loss) and Net Prior Service Costs Credit Arising During Period Net of Tax The accumulated change in the value of either the projected benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost, after tax. Plus, the cost (credit) resulting from a plan amendment that occurred during the period, after tax. The cost has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. A plan amendment includes provisions that grant increased benefits based on service rendered in prior periods. Total Pending trades payable Represents the fair value of pending trades payable under plan assets. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Pending Trades Payable Represents the maximum period for which securities are generally lent. Securities Lending Period Maximum Maximum general term for securities lending transactions (in months) High Yield Bonds [Member] High Yield Bonds Represents the investments in below investment grade fixed income securities as well as commingled high yield bond funds. Emerging Market Bonds [Member] Emerging market bonds Represents the investments in securities issued by governments and other entities located in developing countries as well as commingled emerging market bond funds. Defined Benefit Plan, Difference Between Actual Return and Expected Return on Plan Assets Difference between the actual and expected returns on pension and post-retirement plan assets Represents the difference between actual and expected returns on plan assets. Private Debt [Member] Private Debt Represents the non-public investments in distressed or mezzanine debt funds. Market Neutral Hedge Funds [Member] Market Neutral Hedge Funds Represents the investments in a diversified mix of instruments that are intended in combination to exhibit low correlations to market fluctuations. Directional Hedge Funds [Member] Directional Hedge Funds Represents investments that may exhibit somewhat higher correlations to market fluctuations than the market neutral hedge funds. Derivatives [Member] Derivatives Derivatives include the market value of exchange traded futures contracts which are classified as Level 1, as well as privately negotiated over-the-counter swaps that are valued based on the change in interest rates or a specific market index and classified as Level 2. The market values represent gains or losses that occur due to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, security prices, or other factors. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Short-term Investments Fund [Member] Cash equivalents and short-term investment funds Represents cash or cash equivalent and short-term investments. Cash includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. Short-term Investments includes investments which the entity has the intent to sell or dispose of within one year from the date of the balance sheet. Non Qualified Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] Non-qualified pension plan A non-qualified pension plan is a plan that defines an amount of pension benefit to be provided, usually as a function of one or more factors such as age, years of service, or compensation. Defined Benefit Plan Amortization of Other Gain Other gain The amount of the other gain recognized in net periodic benefit cost relating to benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service pursuant to a plan amendment or a plan initiation. Defined Benefit Plan, Other Benefit Obligations Obligations for the non-current portion of executive life insurance plans, post-employment perquisites, post-employment disability insurance and workers' compensation benefit obligations Represents the obligations for the non-current portion of executive life insurance plans, post-employment perquisites, post-employment disability insurance and workers' compensation benefit obligations included in post-retirement and other post-retirement obligations. Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock Defined Benefit Plan Net Change in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Other Gain Other gain, net change Represents the net change in other gain benefit under accumulated other comprehensive income. Securities Lending Obligation Securities lending obligation Represents the securities lending obligation, a fixed amount based on the collateral received and is classified as Level 2. The collateral received is invested in collective investment vehicles that are comprised of short-term investment grade bonds and cash equivalents, the valuations of which are described above, and is classified as Level 2. Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets, Net Total investments, net of securities lending obligation Represents the fair value of plan assets, net of securities lending obligation. Qualified Profit Sharing Plan [Member] Defined contribution plan offered to employees as a form of incentive compensation. 401(k) Plan Shares of Company Stock in 401 k Plan Assets The number of shares of the Company common stock included in the assets of the 401(k) Plan. Company common stock included in the assets of the 401(k) Plan (in shares) Amendment and Restatement of Credit Agreement [Member] Amendment and restatement of credit agreement Represents the amendment and restatement of the credit agreement. Revolving credit agreement Arrangement in which loan proceeds can continuously be obtained following repayments, but the total amount borrowed cannot exceed a specified maximum amount. Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base [Axis] The alternative reference rates that may be used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base [Domain] Identification of the reference rate that is used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base LIBOR [Member] Represents the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. LIBOR Sale Leaseback Transaction [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment QCII [Member] QCII Represents Qwest Communications International Inc. (QCII). Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base, Base Rate [Member] Represents the base rate used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Base Rate Sale of Asset [Member] Sale of administration building Represents the sale of asset of the reporting entity. Notes 7.0 Percent Due 2052 [Member] 7.0% Notes due 2052 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.0 percent, due in 2052. Line of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity before Amendment Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit agreement before amendment Represents the maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility before the amendment. Sale Leaseback Transaction Lease Term Lease term (in years) Represents the term of lease related to the assets being leased-back in connection with the transaction involving the sale of property to another party and the lease of the property back to the seller. Notes 6.738 Percent Due 2013[Member] 6.738% Notes due 2013 Represents notes with an interest rate of 6.738 percent, due in 2013. Number of Lenders of Credit Facility Represents the number of lenders in amended credit facility. Number of lenders Line of Credit Facility Lending Commitment Per Lender Represents the amount of the lender's lending commitment under the credit facility, without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Lender commitment Notes 7.082 Percent Due 2016 [Member] 7.082% Notes due 2016 Represents notes with an interest rate of 7.082 percent, due in 2016. Term Loan [Member] Term loan Represents the term loan with CoBank and several other Farm Credit System banks. Notes 7.625 Percent Due 2015 [Member] 7.625% Notes due 2015 Represents the notes with an interest rate of 7.625 percent, due in 2015. Debt Instrument Number of Guarantor Subsidiaries Number of wholly-owned subsidiaries as guarantors for the Credit Facility Number of guarantor subsidiaries for the credit facility. Number of Consecutive Quarterly Installments Repayment Number of consecutive quarterly installments repayment Represents the number of consecutive quarterly installments repayment of term loan. Debt Instrument, Redemption Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Redemption price of debt instrument that may be redeemed (as a percent) Represents the redem