Condensed Balance Sheets (LP) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Investments:
Affiliate debentures	$ 773,196	$ 773,196
Total Assets	773,196	773,196
MERRILL LYNCH PREFERRED FUNDING III, L.P.
Investments:
Affiliate debentures	900,547	900,547
U.S. Government and agencies	9,096	9,101
Total investments	909,643	909,648
Total Assets	909,643	909,648
PARTNERS' CAPITAL
Limited partnership interest	773,196	773,196
General partnership interest	136,447	136,452
Total Partners' Capital	$ 909,643	$ 909,648