Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023	Sep. 30, 2024	Sep. 30, 2023
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 26,480	$ (12,567)	$ 69,810	$ 59,389
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	134	11	109	217
Applicable income taxes	(31)	(7)	(28)	(39)
Foreign currency translation	900	(801)	139	(169)
Applicable income taxes	57	(7)	49	(22)
Long-duration insurance contract discount rate changes	(882)	920	(23)	1,040
Applicable income taxes	188	(204)	13	(253)
Defined benefit pension plans	(19)	14	(18)	66
Applicable income taxes	4	(1)	3	(13)
Other, net	(157)	23	(170)	(40)
Other comprehensive income, net	194	(52)	74	787
Comprehensive income	26,674	(12,619)	69,884	60,176
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	260	180	512	747
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders	$ 26,414	$ (12,799)	$ 69,372	$ 59,429