Entity Central Index Key
Amount of U.S. Treasury Bills issued by the United States Department of the Treasury which have maturities that are more than three months from the date of purchases.
Amount, after allowance, receivable from customers, clients, or other third-parties, and receivables classified as other.
The remaining unamortized excess of the estimated ultimate liability for claims and claim costs over the premiums earned with respect to retroactive property/casualty reinsurance contracts.
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses for retroactive reinsurance contracts.
Payable for purchases of U.S. treasury bills.
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date for a) repurchase liabilities for fractional ownership interests in aircraft, and b) lease revenues received, but not recognized for financial reporting purposes, net of the accumulated amortization of such amounts that to date have been recognized in revenue.
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date for a) payments made in advance for income taxes, which will be charged against earnings, b) income taxes previously overpaid to tax authorities representing refunds of overpayments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes, c) the net cumulative amount for all deferred taxes arising from temporary differences between accounting income in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and tax-basis income, and d) unpaid sum of the known and estimated amounts payable to satisfy all currently due domestic and foreign income tax obligations.
Provision for benefits, claims and claims settlement expenses incurred during the period for life, annuity and health insurance contracts, net of the effects of contracts assumed and ceded.
Expense incurred for underwriting activities related to insurance policies, including the amortization of deferred premium acquisition costs.
Costs related to leasing operations.
Costs incurred in providing energy services and other operating expenses.
Amount of accumulated unrealized gain (loss) on investments in equity securities.
Amount including accretion (amortization) of purchase discount (premium) of interest income and dividend income on securities and investments.
Aggregate amount of revenue from satisfaction of performance obligation by transferring promised service to customer and other income.
Cover [Abstract]
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Table]
Class of Stock
Statement Class Of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock
Class Of Stock [Domain]
Common Class A [Member]
Common Class A [Member]
Common Class B [Member]
Common Class B [Member]
M zero point seven five zero senior notes due two thousand twenty three.
M 0.750 Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member]
M Zero Point Seven Five Zero Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Three [Member]
M one point one two five senior notes due two thousand twenty seven.
M 1.125 Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member]
M One Point One Two Five Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Seven [Member]
M one point six two five senior notes due two thousand thirty five.
M 1.625 Senior Notes Due 2035 [Member]
M One Point Six Two Five Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirty Five [Member]
M one point three zero zero senior notes due two thousand twenty four.
M 1.300 Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member]
M One Point Three Zero Zero Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Four [Member]
M two point one five zero senior notes due two thousand twenty eight.
M 2.150 Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member]
M Two Point One Five Zero Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Eight [Member]
M zero point two five zero senior notes due two thousand twenty one.
M 0.250 Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member]
M Zero Point Two Five Zero Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty One [Member]
M zero point six two five senior notes due two thousand twenty three.
M 0.625 Senior Notes Due 2023 [Member]
M Zero Point Six Two Five Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Three [Member]
M zero point zero zero zero senior notes due two thousand twenty five.
M 0.000 Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member]
M Zero Point Zero Zero Zero Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Five [Member]
M two point three seven five senior notes due two thousand thirty nine.
M 2.375 Senior Notes Due 2039 [Member]
M Two Point Three Seven Five Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirty Nine [Member]
M two point six two five senior notes due two thousand fifty nine.
M 2.625 Senior Notes Due 2059 [Member]
M Two Point Six Two Five Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Fifty Nine [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Entity File Number
Entity File Number
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Address, Address Line One
Entity Address Address Line1
Entity Address, City or Town
Entity Address City Or Town
Entity Address, State or Province
Entity Address State Or Province
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code
Entity Address Postal Zip Code
City Area Code
City Area Code
Local Phone Number
Local Phone Number
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding
Entity Interactive Data Current
Entity Interactive Data Current
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code
Entity Incorporation State Country Code
Document Quarterly Report
Document Quarterly Report
Document Transition Report
Document Transition Report
Security 12b Title
Security12b Title
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Security Exchange Name
Security Exchange Name
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Product and Service
Product Or Service [Axis]
Product and Service
Products And Services [Domain]
Represents the Insurance and Other reporting business units.
Insurance and Other [Member]
Insurance And Other [Member]
Represents the Railroad, Utilities and Energy reporting business units.
Railroad, Utilities and Energy [Member]
Railroad Utilities And Energy [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value
Short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills
U S Treasury Bills
Investments in fixed maturity securities
Available For Sale Securities Debt Securities
Investments in equity securities
Equity Securities Fv Ni
Equity method investments
Equity Method Investments
Loans and finance receivables
Notes Receivable Net
Other receivables
Premiums And Other Receivables Net
Inventories
Inventory Net
Receivables
Accounts And Other Receivables Net
Property, plant and equipment
Property Plant And Equipment Net
Equipment held for lease
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Regulatory assets
Regulatory Assets
Other intangible assets
Intangible Assets Net Excluding Goodwill
Deferred charges under retroactive reinsurance contracts
Unamortized Deferred Charges On Reinsurance Assumed
Other
Other Assets
Total assets
Assets
Investment Type
Investment Type [Axis]
Investments
Investment Type Categorization [Member]
U.S. Treasury Bills [Member]
U S Treasury Bill Securities [Member]
Cash equivalents
Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities And Stockholders Equity [Abstract]
LIABILITIES
Liabilities [Abstract]
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
Liability For Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Property Casualty Liability
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses under retroactive reinsurance contracts
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claim Adjustment Expense Retroactive Reinsurance Contracts
Unearned premiums
Unearned Premiums
Life, annuity and health insurance benefits
Liability For Future Policy Benefits
Other policyholder liabilities
Policyholder Funds
Accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities Current And Noncurrent
Payable for purchase of U.S. Treasury Bills
Payable For Purchases Of U S Treasury Bills
Derivative contract liabilities
Derivative Liabilities
Aircraft repurchase liabilities and unearned lease revenues
Aircraft Repurchase Liabilities And Deferred Revenue Leases Net
Regulatory liabilities
Regulatory Liabilities
Income taxes, principally deferred
Income Taxes Principally Deferred
Notes payable and other borrowings
Debt And Capital Lease Obligations
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Shareholders’ equity:
Stockholders Equity Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Common stock
Common Stock Value
Capital in excess of par value
Additional Paid In Capital Common Stock
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit
Treasury stock, at cost
Treasury Stock Value
Berkshire Hathaway shareholders’ equity
Stockholders Equity
Noncontrolling interests
Minority Interest
Total shareholders’ equity
Stockholders Equity Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
Liabilities And Stockholders Equity
Income Statement [Abstract]
Freight Rail Transportation [Member]
Cargo And Freight [Member]
Represents the Utilities and Energy reporting business units.
Utilities and Energy [Member]
Utilities And Energy [Member]
Represents Class A shares outstanding plus one-fifteen-hundredth (1/1,500) of Class B shares outstanding.
Equivalent Class A [Member]
Equivalent Class A [Member]
Represents Class B shares outstanding plus 1,500 times Class A shares outstanding.
Equivalent Class B [Member]
Equivalent Class B [Member]
Revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Insurance premiums earned
Premiums Earned Net
Sales and service revenues
Revenue From Contract With Customer Excluding Assessed Tax
Leasing revenues
Operating Lease Lease Income
Interest, dividend and other investment income
Investment Income Interest Dividend And Other
Service revenues and other income
Service Revenues And Other Income
Total revenues
Revenues
Investment and derivative contract gains (losses)
Nonoperating Income Expense
Costs and expenses:
Costs And Expenses [Abstract]
Insurance losses and loss adjustment expenses
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Incurred Claims1
Life, annuity and health insurance benefits
Policyholder Benefits And Claims Incurred Life Annuity And Health
Insurance underwriting expenses
Insurance Underwriting Expenses
Cost of sales and services
Cost Of Goods And Services Sold
Cost of leasing
Cost Of Leasing
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling General And Administrative Expense
Other expenses
Other Expenses
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Total costs and expenses
Costs And Expenses
Expenses
Operating Expenses
Cost of sales and other expenses
Costs Of Services And Operating Expenses
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity method earnings
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Minority Interest And Income Loss From Equity Method Investments
Equity method earnings
Income Loss From Equity Method Investments
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Extraordinary Items Noncontrolling Interest
Income tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense Benefit
Net earnings (loss)
Profit Loss
Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders
Net Income Loss
Net earnings (loss) per average equivalent share
Earnings Per Share Basic
Average equivalent shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic
Economic equivalent of Class B share represented as a fraction of Class A share.
Economic equivalent of Class B share to Class A share
Economic Equivalent Percentage Of Class B Common Share To Class A Common Share
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)
Other comprehensive income:
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract]
Unrealized appreciation of investments
Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Holding Gain Loss On Securities Arising During Period Before Tax
Applicable income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment From A O C I For Sale Of Securities Tax
Foreign currency translation
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment Before Tax
Applicable income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Tax
Defined benefit pension plans
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Adjustment Before Tax
Applicable income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Tax
Other, net
Other Comprehensive Income Other Net Of Tax
Other comprehensive income, net
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax
Comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders
Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax
Impact of new shares issued and treasury stock repurchased during the period.
Increase (decrease) through transactions with non controlling interests.
Statement Of Stockholders Equity [Abstract]
Equity Components
Statement Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component
Equity Component [Domain]
Common stock and capital in excess of par value
Common Stock Including Additional Paid In Capital [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
Treasury Stock
Treasury Stock [Member]
Noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Beginning Balance
Adoption of new accounting pronouncement
New Accounting Pronouncement Or Change In Accounting Principle Effect Of Adoption Quantification
Other comprehensive income, net
Issuance (acquisition) of common stock
Shares Issued And Repurchased
Transactions with noncontrolling interests
Increase Decrease Through Transactions With Noncontrolling Interests
Ending Balance
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in deferred charges reinsurance assumed.
The cash outflow to acquire investments in equity securities.
The cash inflow associated with sales and redemptions of equity securities.
Amount of cash outflow to acquire investments in U.S. Treasury Bills with maturities greater than three months recorded at amortized cost and debt securities measured at fair value with change in fair value recognized in other comprehensive income (available-for-sale).
Amount of cash inflow from sale of investments in U.S. Treasury Bills with maturities greater than three months recorded at amortized cost and debt securities measured at fair value with change in fair value recognized in other comprehensive income (available-for-sale).
The cash inflow associated with redemption or maturity of investments in U.S. Treasury Bills with maturities greater than three months recorded at amortized cost and debt securities measured at fair value with change in fair value recognized in other comprehensive income (available-for-sale).
Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to operating cash flows:
Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract]
Investment (gains) losses
Gain Loss On Investments
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation Depletion And Amortization
Other
Other Noncash Income Expense
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase Decrease In Operating Capital [Abstract]
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
Increase Decrease In Liability For Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Reserve
Deferred charges reinsurance assumed
Increase Decrease In Deferred Charges Reinsurance Assumed
Unearned premiums
Increase Decrease In Unearned Premiums
Receivables and originated loans
Increase Decrease In Receivables
Other assets
Increase Decrease In Other Operating Assets
Other liabilities
Increase Decrease In Other Operating Liabilities
Income taxes
Increase Decrease In Income Taxes
Net cash flows from operating activities
Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities [Abstract]
Purchases of equity securities
Payments To Acquire Equity Securities
Sales and redemptions of equity securities
Proceeds From Sales And Redemptions Of Equity Securities
Purchases of U.S. Treasury Bills and fixed maturity securities
Payments To Acquire U S Treasury Bills And Available For Sale Securities Debt
Sales of U.S. Treasury Bills and fixed maturity securities
Proceeds From Sale Of U S Treasury Bills And Available For Sale Securities Debt
Redemptions and maturities of U.S. Treasury Bills and fixed maturity securities
Proceeds From Redemptions And Maturities Of U S Treasury Bills And Available For Sale Securities Debt
Purchases of loans and finance receivables
Payments To Acquire Loans Receivable
Collections of loans and finance receivables
Proceeds From Collection Of Loans Receivable
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired
Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired
Purchases of property, plant and equipment and equipment held for lease
Payments To Acquire Property Plant And Equipment
Other
Payments For Proceeds From Other Investing Activities
Net cash flows from investing activities
Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from borrowings
Proceeds From Issuance Of Long Term Debt
Repayments of borrowings
Repayments Of Long Term Debt
Changes in short term borrowings, net
Proceeds From Repayments Of Short Term Debt
Acquisition of treasury stock
Payments For Repurchase Of Common Stock
Other
Proceeds From Payments For Other Financing Activities
Net cash flows from financing activities
Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities
Effects of foreign currency exchange rate changes
Effect Of Exchange Rate On Cash Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash And Restricted Cash Equivalents
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash And Restricted Cash Equivalents Period Increase Decrease Including Exchange Rate Effect
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year
Cash Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash And Restricted Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of first quarter *
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Restricted cash, included in other assets at beginning of year
Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at end of first quarter
Restricted cash, included in other assets at end of first quarter
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]
Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents Asset Statement Of Financial Position Extensible List
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
General
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Accounting Changes And Error Corrections [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements And Changes In Accounting Principles [Text Block]
The entire disclosure for investments in fixed maturity securities.
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investments in fixed maturity securities
Investments In Fixed Maturities Disclosure [Text Block]
The entire disclosure for investments in equity securities.
Investments in equity securities
Investments In Equity Securities Disclosure [Text Block]
Equity Method Investments And Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity method investments
Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block]
Disclosure of the investment gains and losses reported in the statement of income, including recognition of other than temporary impairment losses.
Investment gains/losses
Investment Gains Losses [Text Block]
Receivables [Abstract]
Loans and finance receivables
Financing Receivables [Text Block]
Other receivables
Loans Notes Trade And Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type
Property Plant And Equipment By Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type
Property Plant And Equipment Type [Domain]
Equipment held for lease.
Equipment held for lease [Member]
Equipment Held For Lease [Member]
Property, plant and equipment including equipment held for lease
Property Plant And Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative contracts
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Insurance [Abstract]
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
Liability For Future Policy Benefits And Unpaid Claims Disclosure [Text Block]
The entire disclosure of retroactive reinsurance contracts.
Retroactive reinsurance contracts
Retroactive Reinsurance Contracts [Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Notes payable and other borrowings
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
The entire disclosure about the entity's classes of common stock authorized, issued, and outstanding, including any changes approved by shareholders, and a rollforward of outstanding shares.
Equity [Abstract]
Common stock
Common Stock Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Comprehensive Income Note [Text Block]
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies and Commitments
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Revenues from contracts with customers
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Text Block]
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business segment data
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements Policy Policy [Text Block]
Schedule of investments in securities with fixed maturities
Debt Securities Available For Sale Table [Text Block]
Schedule of amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities with fixed maturities
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date Table [Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of equity securities from cost basis to fair value.
Schedule of investments in equity securities
Schedule Of Investments In Equity Securities Table [Text Block]
Summarized unaudited financial information of Kraft Heinz
Equity Method Investments [Text Block]
Summary of investment gains and losses
Gain Loss On Investments [Text Block]
Receivable Type
Accounts Notes Loans And Financing Receivable By Receivable Type [Axis]
Receivable
Receivable Type [Domain]
Loans and Finance Receivables [Member]
Loans And Finance Receivables [Member]
Manufactured housing loan balance.
Manufactured Housing Loan Balances [Member]
Manufactured Housing Loan Balance [Member]
Schedule of receivables
Schedule Of Accounts Notes Loans And Financing Receivable [Text Block]
Schedule of changes in allowance for credit losses
Allowance For Credit Losses On Financing Receivables Table [Text Block]
Schedule of loans and leases receivables before fees designated by year of loan origination.
Schedule of manufactured housing loan balances before discounts and allowances designated as performing or non-performing by year of loan origination
Schedule Of Loans And Leases Receivables Before Fees Designated By Year Of Loan Origination Table [Text Block]
Schedule of inventories
Schedule Of Inventory Current Table [Text Block]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment
Property Plant And Equipment [Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of depreciation expense for property, plant and equipment and assets held for lease.
Schedule of depreciation expense
Schedule Of Depreciation Expense Table [Text Block]
Schedule of equipment held for lease
Schedule Of Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease [Text Block]
Summary of operating lease revenues by type
Operating Lease Lease Income Table [Text Block]
Reconciliation of the change in goodwill
Schedule Of Goodwill [Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the carrying value of finite and indefinite lived intangible assets in total and by major class.
Schedule of intangible assets
Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class Table [Text Block]
Derivative contracts outstanding
Schedule Of Derivative Instruments [Text Block]
Schedule of liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expense
Schedule Of Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense
Tabular disclosure of changes in claim liabilities and deferred charge assets related to retroactive reinsurance contracts.
Reconciliation of changes in retroactive reinsurance claim liabilities and deferred charge assets
Schedule Of Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense And Deferred Charge Assets Retroactive Reinsurance Contracts Table [Text Block]
Schedule of short and long term outstanding debt disclosure
Schedule Of Debt Table [Text Block]
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Schedule Of Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Table [Text Block]
Reconciliations of significant assets and liabilities measured and carried at fair value on a recurring basis with the use of significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation Table [Text Block]
Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis, unobservable inputs, additional information
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques Table [Text Block]
Changes in issued, treasury and outstanding Berkshire common stock
Schedule Of Stock By Class [Text Block]
Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income
Schedule Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Table [Text Block]
Schedule of supplemental cash flow information
Schedule Of Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures Table [Text Block]
Revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by reportable segment and source of revenue
Disaggregation Of Revenue Table [Text Block]
Transaction price allocated to significant unsatisfied remaining performance obligations
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction Table [Text Block]
Schedule of revenues and earnings or loss before income taxes by segment
Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements And Changes In Accounting Principles [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements Or Change In Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements Or Change In Accounting Principle [Table]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements
Adjustments For New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption
Type Of Adoption [Member]
ASU 2016-13 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update201613 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements Or Change In Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements Or Change In Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Schedule Of Investments [Abstract]
Summary Of Investment Holdings [Table]
Summary Of Investment Holdings [Table]
U.S. Treasury, U.S. government corporations and agencies [Member]
U S Treasury And Government [Member]
Foreign governments [Member]
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Corporate bonds [Member]
Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Other [Member]
Other Debt Securities [Member]
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Summary Of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized cost of fixed maturity securities
Available For Sale Debt Securities Amortized Cost Basis
Unrealized gains on fixed maturity securities
Available For Sale Debt Securities Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain Before Tax
Unrealized losses on fixed maturity securities
Available For Sale Debt Securities Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss Before Tax
Fair value of fixed maturity securities
The percentage of available-for-sale debt securities portfolio as of the reporting date having a specified credit rating.
External Credit Rating by Grouping
External Credit Rating By Grouping [Axis]
External Credit Rating by Grouping
External Credit Rating By Grouping [Domain]
Credit rating at or above AA.
AA or Higher Credit Rating [Member]
A A Or Higher Credit Rating [Member]
Percentage of fixed maturity investments by credit rating
Percentage Of Available For Sale Securities Debt Securities By Credit Rating
Mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Due in one year or less - amortized cost
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Next Rolling Twelve Months Amortized Cost Basis
Due after one year through five years - amortized cost
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling Year Two Through Five Amortized Cost Basis
Due after five years through ten years - amortized cost
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling Year Six Through Ten Amortized Cost Basis
Due after ten years - amortized cost
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling After Year Ten Amortized Cost Basis
Amortized cost of mortgage-backed securities
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Without Single Maturity Date Amortized Cost
Due in one year or less - fair value
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Next Rolling Twelve Months Fair Value
Due after one year through five years - fair value
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling Year Two Through Five Fair Value
Due after five years through ten years - fair value
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling Year Six Through Ten Fair Value
Due after ten years - fair value
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Rolling After Year Ten Fair Value
Fair value of mortgage-backed securities
Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Without Single Maturity Date Fair Value
Fair value of fixed maturity securities
Industry Sector
Equity Securities By Industry [Axis]
Industry Sector
Equity Securities Industry [Member]
Investment sector consisting of banks, insurance and finance.
Banks, insurance and finance [Member]
Banks Insurance And Finance [Member]
Investment sector consisting of consumer products.
Consumer products [Member]
Consumer Products [Member]
Investment sector consisting of commercial, industrial and other.
Commercial, industrial and other [Member]
Commercial Industrial And Other [Member]
Cost Basis
Equity Securities Fv Ni Cost
Net Unrealized Gains/(losses)
Equity Securities Accumulated Unrealized Gain Loss
Fair Value
The number of investee companies included in a concentration percentage.
Concentration Risk Benchmark
Concentration Risk By Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Amount of investment in equity security measured at fair value with change in fair value recognized in net income (FV-NI) when it serves as a benchmark in a concentration of risk calculation.
Equity Securities [Member]
Equity Securities Fv Ni [Member]
Legal Entity
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity
Entity [Domain]
Represents American Express Company.
American Express Company [Member]
American Express Company [Member]
Represents Apple Inc.
Apple Inc. [Member]
Apple Inc [Member]
Represents Bank of America Corporation.
Bank of America Corporation [Member]
Bank Of America Corporation [Member]
Represents The Coca-Cola Company.
The Coca-Cola Company [Member]
Coca Cola Company [Member]
Represents Wells Fargo & Company.
Wells Fargo & Company [Member]
Wells Fargo And Company [Member]
Concentration Risk Type
Concentration Risk By Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Reflects a concentration of investments at fair value as a percentage of a specified benchmark.
Investment Concentration [Member]
Investment Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration percentage
Concentration Risk Percentage1
Number of companies in concentration percentage
Investment Concentration Number Of Companies
Fair value of investments
Liquidation value of preferred shares.
Exercise price of warrants.
Period from issuance date to redemption period start date of preferred stock investment.
Percentage price of liquidation value at which a preferred stock investment can be redeemed by the issuer.
Investment Holdings [Table]
Investment Holdings [Table]
Ownership
Ownership [Axis]
Ownership
Ownership [Domain]
Occidental Petroleum Corporation.
Occidental Corporation [Member]
Occidental Petroleum Corporation [Member]
Represents cumulative perpetual preferred stock and warrants.
Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock and Warrants [Member]
Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock And Warrants [Member]
Represents cumulative perpetual preferred stock.
Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock [Member]
Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Other Commitments
Other Commitments [Axis]
Other Commitments
Other Commitments [Domain]
Represents an investment commitment.
Investment Commitment [Member]
Investment Commitment [Member]
Investment commitment description
Other Commitments Description
Investment commitment amount
Contractual Obligation
Investment in preferred stock, liquidation value
Preferred Stock Investment Liquidation Value
Number of common shares that can be purchased
Class Of Warrant Or Right Number Of Securities Called By Warrants Or Rights
Exercise price for warrants, per share
Warrants Exercise Price
Investment in preferred stock, stated dividend rate
Preferred Stock Dividend Rate Percentage
Investment in preferred stock, period from issuance date to redemption period start date
Preferred Stock Period From Issuance Date To Redemption Period Start Date
Investment in preferred stock, redemption price percentage of liquidation preference
Preferred Stock Investment Redemption Price Percentage Of Liquidation Preference
Amount of difference between carrying value and fair value based on market price.
Difference between carrying value and fair value percentage based on quoted market price.
Schedule Of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Schedule Of Equity Method Investments [Table]
Investment, Name
Schedule Of Equity Method Investment Equity Method Investee Name [Axis]
Investment, Name
Equity Method Investee Name [Domain]
Represents The Kraft Heinz Company.
The Kraft Heinz Company [Member]
The Kraft Heinz Company [Member]
Equity method investments in Berkadia Commercial Mortgage LLC, Pilot Travel Centers LLC, d/b/a Pilot Flying J, and Electric Transmission Texas, LLC.
Berkadia Commercial Mortgage LLC, Pilot Travel Centers LLC, and Electric Transmission Texas, LLC [Member]
Berkadia Commercial Mortgage L L C Pilot Travel Centers L L C And Electric Transmission Texas L L C [Member]
Represents Berkadia Commercial Mortgage LLC.
Berkadia Commercial Mortgage LLC [Member]
Berkadia Commercial Mortgage [Member]
Represents Electric Transmission Texas, LLC.
Electric Transmission Texas, LLC [Member]
Electric Transmission Texas [Member]
Counterparty Name
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name
Repurchase Agreement Counterparty Name [Domain]
Represents Jefferies Financial Group Inc., formerly Leucadia National Corporation.
Jefferies Financial Group Inc. [Member]
Jefferies Financial Group Inc [Member]
Represents American Electric Power.
American Electric Power [Member]
American Electric Power [Member]
Represents a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company Subsidiary [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company Subsidiary [Member]
Credit Facility
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility
Credit Facility [Domain]
Commercial Paper [Member]
Commercial Paper [Member]
Represents Pilot Travel Centers LLC, d/b/a Pilot Flying J.
Pilot Travel Centers LLC [Member]
Pilot Travel Centers L L C [Member]
Represents the Haslam family.
Haslam Family [Member]
Haslam Family [Member]
Represents a third party.
Third Party [Member]
Third Party [Member]
Consolidated Entities
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Parent) [Member]
Parent Company [Member]
Statistical Measurement
Range [Axis]
Statistical Measurement
Range [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Represents an agreement to acquire additional equity interests in 2023.
Agreement to Acquire Additional Interest in 2023 [Member]
Agreement To Acquire Additional Interest [Member]
Geographical
Statement Geographical [Axis]
Geographical
Segment Geographical [Domain]
U.S. States [Member]
UNITED STATES
Canadian Provinces [Member]
CANADA
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Schedule Of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of shares owned
Investment Owned Balance Shares
Equity method investment ownership percentage
Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage
Equity method investments, fair value
Equity Method Investments Fair Value Disclosure
Equity method investments, carrying value
Equity method earnings (losses)
Common stock dividends received
Equity Method Investment Dividends Or Distributions
Amount of difference between carrying value and fair value based on quoted market price
Amount Of Difference Between Carrying Value And Fair Value Based On Market Price
Difference between carrying value and fair value percentage
Difference Between Carrying Value And Fair Value Percentage Based On Quoted Market Price
Assets
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Assets
Liabilities
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Liabilities
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders of the entity's equity method investee.
Sales
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Revenue
Net earnings attributable to Kraft Heinz common shareholders
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information Net Income Loss Attributable To Common Stockholders
Maximum outstanding balance of commercial paper borrowings
Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Commercial paper outstanding
Commercial Paper
Annual purchase of fuel for operations.
Percentage of investment acquired by members or limited partners of limited liability company (LLC).
Number of fueling locations.
Ownership percentage
Limited Liability Company L L C Or Limited Partnership L P Members Or Limited Partners Ownership Interest
Gallons of fuel purchased annually
Annual Purchase Of Fuel For Operations
Number of retail
Number Of Stores
Number of fueling locations
Number Of Fueling Locations
Majority ownership percentage
Limited Liability Company L L C Or Limited Partnership L P Managing Member Or General Partner Ownership Interest
Percentage of additional interest to be acquired
Limited Liability Company L L C Members Or Limited Partners Ownership Interest Acquired
Equity securities - Unrealized investment gains (losses) on securities held at the end of the period
Equity Securities Fv Ni Unrealized Gain Loss
Equity securities - Investment gains (losses) during the period
Equity Securities Fv Ni Realized Gain Loss
Equity securities - Investment gains (losses), total
Equity Securities Fv Ni Gain Loss
Fixed maturity securities - Gross realized gains
Debt Securities Available For Sale Realized Gain
Fixed maturity securities - Gross realized losses
Debt Securities Available For Sale Realized Loss
Other
Gain Loss On Sale Of Other Investments
Investment gains (losses)
The taxable gains on sales of equity securities represent the difference between the proceeds from sales and the original cost.
Taxable gains on sales of equity securities
Taxable Gains On Sales Of Equity Securities
Loans and finance receivables before allowances and discounts
Financing Receivable Before Allowance For Credit Loss And Fee
Allowances for credit losses
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses
Unamortized acquisition discounts and points
Financing Receivable Unamortized Loan Commitment Origination Fee And Premium Discount
Loans and finance receivables
Effect of adopting new accounting pronouncement on allowance for credit losses.
Allowance For Credit Loss [Abstract]
Balance - beginning of year:
Adoption of ASC 326
Financing Receivable Change To Retained Earnings With Adoption Of A S C326
Provision for credit losses
Provision For Loan Losses Expensed
Charge-offs, net of recoveries
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses Write Offs
Balance - March 31:
Percent of manufactured housing loan balances evaluated collectively for impairment.
Percent of loan balances that are current as to payment status.
Schedule Of Accounts Notes Loans And Financing Receivable [Table]
Schedule Of Accounts Notes Loans And Financing Receivable [Table]
Seritage Growth Properties.
Seritage Growth Properties [Member]
Seritage Growth Properties [Member]
Lee Enterprises Inc.
Lee Enterprises, Inc. [Member]
Lee Enterprises Inc [Member]
Term loan.
Term Loan [Member]
Term Loan [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts Notes And Loans Receivable [Line Items]
Percent of manufactured housing loan balances evaluated collectively for impairment
Percent Of Loan Balances Evaluated Collectively For Impairment
Percent of loan balances considered to be current as to payment status
Percent Of Loan Balances With Payment Status Current
Financial Instrument Performance Status
Financial Instrument Performance Status [Axis]
Financial Instrument Performance Status
Financial Instrument Performance Status [Domain]
Performing [Member]
Performing Financing Receivable [Member]
Non-Performing [Member]
Nonperforming Financing Receivable [Member]
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, 2020
Financing Receivable Originated In Current Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, 2019
Financing Receivable Originated In Fiscal Year Before Latest Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, 2018
Financing Receivable Originated Two Years Before Latest Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, 2017
Financing Receivable Originated Three Years Before Latest Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, 2016
Financing Receivable Originated Four Years Before Latest Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, Prior
Financing Receivable Originated Five Or More Years Before Latest Fiscal Year
Loans and financing receivables by origination year, Total
Term loan facility amount
Expiration date of term loan
Line Of Credit Facility Expiration Date1
Outstanding loan balance
Loans And Leases Receivable Gross Carrying Amount
Insurance premiums receivable
Premiums Receivable Gross
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses
Reinsurance Recoverables On Unpaid Losses Gross
Trade receivables
Accounts Receivable Gross
Other
Other Receivables
Allowances for credit losses
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Premiums And Other Receivables
Other receivables
Receivables
Provisions for credit losses on receivables.
Provisions for credit losses on receivables
Provisions For Credit Losses On Receivables
Unbilled revenue
Unbilled Contracts Receivable
Carrying amount, net of reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed and other inventory.
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of components used by the Entity which are bought from another entity rather than produced by the Entity, net of valuation reserves and adjustments.
Raw materials
Inventory Raw Materials Net Of Reserves
Work in process and other
Inventory Work In Process And Other Inventory Net Of Reserves
Finished manufactured goods
Inventory Finished Goods Net Of Reserves
Goods acquired for resale
Other Inventory Purchased Goods Net Of Reserves
Total inventory
Schedule Of Property Plant And Equipment [Table]
Schedule Of Property Plant And Equipment [Table]
Land, buildings and improvements [Member]
Land Buildings And Improvements [Member]
Machinery and equipment [Member]
Machinery And Equipment [Member]
Represents a) Long lived, depreciable assets, commonly used in offices and stores, and b) Other long term capitalized assets related to property, plant and equipment not otherwise previously categorized.
Furniture, fixtures and other [Member]
Furniture Fixtures And Other [Member]
Represents the Railroad reporting business unit.
Railroad [Member]
Railroad [Member]
Represents land, capitalized costs related to railroad track structure and other capitalizable roadway costs.
Land, track structure and other roadway [Member]
Land Track Structure And Other Roadway [Member]
Represents capitalized costs related to locomotives freight cars and other related equipment.
Locomotives, freight cars and other equipment [Member]
Locomotives Freight Cars And Other Equipment [Member]
Represents capitalized costs related to utility generation, transmission and distribution systems.
Utility generation, transmission and distribution systems [Member]
Utility Generation Transmission And Distribution Systems [Member]
Interstate natural gas pipeline assets [Member]
Pipelines [Member]
Independent power plants and other assets [Member]
Other Energy Equipment [Member]
Construction in progress [Member]
Construction In Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross
Property Plant And Equipment Gross
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation Depletion And Amortization Property Plant And Equipment
Total property, plant and equipment, net
Depreciation expense
Depreciation
Leases [Abstract]
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease By Major Property Class [Table]
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease By Major Property Class [Table]
Railcars [Member]
Railroad Transportation Equipment [Member]
Aircraft [Member]
Air Transportation Equipment [Member]
Other Equipment Held for Lease [Member]
Other Capitalized Property Plant And Equipment [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease [Line Items]
Equipment held for lease, gross
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease Gross
Equipment held for lease, accumulated depreciation
Property Subject To Or Available For Operating Lease Accumulated Depreciation
Equipment held for lease, net
Depreciation expense for equipment held for lease
Operating Leases Income Statement Depreciation Expense On Property Subject To Or Held For Lease
Operating Leases Lease Income [Abstract]
Fixed lease revenue
Operating Lease Lease Income Lease Payments
Variable lease revenue
Operating Lease Variable Lease Income
Total
Balance at beginning of year
Acquisitions of businesses
Goodwill Acquired During Period
Other, including foreign currency translation
Goodwill Translation And Purchase Accounting Adjustments
Balance at end of period
Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Schedule of indefinite-lived and finite-lived intangible assets.
Schedule Of Indefinite Lived And Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule Of Indefinite Lived And Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class
Finite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain]
Represents a) 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, and b) Value associated with technology.
Patents and technology [Member]
Patents And Technology [Member]
Finite lived and and indefinite-lived intangible assets by major class.
Finite Lived And And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class
Finite Lived And And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis]
Finite lived and and indefinite-lived intangible assets by major class.
Finite Lived And And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class
Finite Lived And And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Domain]
Trademarks and trade names [Member]
Trademarks And Trade Names [Member]
Customer relationships [Member]
Customer Relationships [Member]
Other intangible assets [Member]
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount
Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill
Accumulated amortization
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization
Intangible asset amortization expense
Amortization Of Intangible Assets
Intangible assets with indefinite lives, excluding goodwill
Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Hedging Designation
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Nondesignated [Member]
Derivative Instrument
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Contract
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Equity Index Put Options [Member]
Equity Contract [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Liabilities
Notional Value
Derivative Liability Notional Amount
Percentage of decline in equity index values.
Month and year the the entity entered into the derivative contract, in YYYY-MM format.
Derivative contract pre-tax gains (losses)
Gain Loss On Derivative Instruments Net Pretax
Percentage of decline in index values
Percentage Of Decline In Equity Index Values
Derivative inception month and year
Derivative Inception Month And Year
The aggregate premiums received on derivative contracts at the contract inception dates.
Represents the undiscounted liability assuming the contracts are settled on their future expiration dates based on the index values at the most recent balance sheet date.
Month and year the derivative contract matures, in YYYY-MM format.
Derivative maturity month and year
Derivative Maturity Month And Year
Weighted average life of unexpired derivative contracts
Derivative Average Remaining Maturity1
Premiums received at contract inception dates
Derivative Instrument Premiums Received At Inception Dates
Aggregate intrinsic value of equity index put option contracts
Equity Derivative Intrinsic Value
Collateral posting requirements under contracts with collateral provisions
Collateral Already Posted Aggregate Fair Value
Liability For Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense [Table]
Liability For Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense [Table]
In primary insurance activities, the Company assumes defined portions of the risks of loss from persons or organizations that are directly subject to the risks.
Primary Insurance [Member]
Primary Insurance [Member]
Represents property and casualty insurance and reinsurance, excluding retroactive reinsurance.
Property and Casualty Insurance and Reinsurance, Excluding Retroactive Reinsurance [Member]
Property And Casualty Insurance And Reinsurance Excluding Retroactive Reinsurance [Member]
Reinsurance Policy, Type
Reinsurance Policy Type [Axis]
Reinsurance Policy
Reinsurance Policy [Domain]
Represents property and casualty reinsurance.
Property and Casualty Reinsurance [Member]
Property And Casualty Reinsurance [Member]
Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]
Liability For Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense [Line Items]
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses for (reductions of) prior years' accident events
Supplemental Information For Property Casualty Insurance Underwriters Prior Year Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense
Gross liabilities at beginning of year
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses at beginning of year
Net liabilities at beginning of year
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Net
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses, current accident year events
Supplemental Information For Property Casualty Insurance Underwriters Current Year Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses, prior accident years' events
Total incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses
Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses, current accident year events
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Claims Paid Current Year1
Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses, prior accident years' events
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Claims Paid Prior Years1
Total payments
Payments For Losses And Loss Adjustment Expense
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Foreign Currency Translation Gain Loss
Net liabilities at end of period
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses at end of period
Gross liabilities at end of period
Prior year claims and claims adjustment expense as a percentage of the beginning of period net liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expenses.
Prior years' losses incurred as a percentage of net liabilities
Percentage Of Increase Or Decrease In Liability For Unpaid Claims And Claims Adjustment Expense Net
Asset Class
Fair Value By Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class
Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Asset Class [Domain]
This item represents the remaining unamortized excess of the estimated ultimate liability for claims and claim costs over the premiums earned with respect to retroactive property/casualty reinsurance contracts.
Deferred Charges Reinsurance Assumed [Member]
Deferred Charges Reinsurance Assumed [Member]
Liability Class
Fair Value By Liability Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Liability Class
Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Liability Class [Domain]
This item represents unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses for retroactive reinsurance contracts.
Unpaid Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses [Member]
Unpaid Losses And Loss Adjustment Expenses [Member]
Represents retroactive reinsurance.
Retroactive Reinsurance [Member]
Retroactive Reinsurance [Member]
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, beginning of year
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses, current year contracts
Total incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses
Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, end of year
Deferred charges reinsurance assumed, beginning of year
Deferred charges reinsurance assumed, end of year
Effects Of Reinsurance [Table]
Effects Of Reinsurance [Table]
Represents National Indemnity Company.
NICO [Member]
National Indemnity Company [Member]
Represents various subsidiaries of American International Group, Inc.
AIG [Member]
American International Group Inc [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Effects Of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Maximum contractual liability under contract.
Maximum contractual liability under contract
Maximum Contractual Liability Under Contract
Debt Instrument [Table]
Debt Instrument [Table]
Subsidiaries [Member]
Subsidiaries [Member]
Currency
Currency [Axis]
All Currencies
All Currencies [Domain]
U.S. Dollar Denominated [Member]
U S D
Euro Denominated [Member]
E U R
Japanese Yen Denominated [Member]
J P Y
Great Britain Pound Denominated [Member]
G B P
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation.
Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation [Member]
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company [Member]
Represents subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Energy.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Subsidiaries [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Subsidiaries [Member]
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company and subsidiaries.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy and Subsidiaries [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company And Subsidiaries [Member]
Burlington Northern Santa Fe and subsidiaries.
Burlington Northern Santa Fe and subsidiaries [Member]
Burlington Northern Santa Fe And Subsidiaries [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Other borrowings
Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations
Short-term borrowings
Short Term Borrowings
Weighted average interest rate, percentage
Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate
Short-term borrowings, weighted average interest rate
Short Term Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate
Year the debt matures, in CCYY format.
Debt maturity year
Debt Instrument Maturity Year
The principal amount of new debt issued during the period, excluding premium or discount, if any.
Long-term Debt, Type
Longterm Debt Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type
Longterm Debt Type [Domain]
Senior Notes [Member]
Senior Notes [Member]
Other senior notes.
Other Senior Notes [Member]
Other Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name
Debt Instrument Name [Domain]
Notes due 2025 at 0.0%.
Notes Due 2025 at 0.0% [Member]
Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty Five At Zero Point Zero Percent [Member]
Debt with maturity dates ranging from 2023 to 2060.
Debt Due 2023 To 2060 [Member]
Debt Due Two Thousand Twenty Three To Two Thousand Sixty [Member]
Subsequent Event Type
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Member]
Scenario
Statement Scenario [Axis]
Scenario
Scenario Unspecified [Domain]
Forecast [Member]
Scenario Forecast [Member]
Notes due in 2030 at 1.85%.
Notes Due 2030 at 1.85% [Member]
Notes Due Two Thousand Thirty At One Point Eight Five Percent [Member]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature
Guarantee Obligations By Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature
Guarantee Obligations Nature [Domain]
Represents subsidiaries excluding Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation.
Subsidiaries Excluding Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation [Member]
Subsidiaries Excluding Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation [Member]
Debt with maturity dates ranging from 2029 to 2050.
Debt Due 2029 To 2050 [Member]
Debt Due Two Thousand Twenty Nine To Two Thousand Fifty [Member]
Two point seven percent bonds due two thousand thirty.
Bonds Due 2030 at 2.7% [Member]
Two Point Seven Percent Bonds Due Two Thousand Thirty [Member]
Three point three percent bonds due two thousand fifty one.
Bonds Due 2051 at 3.3% [Member]
Three Point Three Percent Bonds Due Two Thousand Fifty One [Member]
Represents Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation.
BNSF [Member]
Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation [Member]
Senior Unsecured Debenture [Member]
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debentures due in 2051.
Debentures Due 2051 [Member]
Debentures Due Two Thousand Fifty One [Member]
Repayments of borrowings
Repayments Of Debt
Principal amount of debt issued
Debt Issued During Period
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage
Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated Percentage
Debt maturing during period.
Debt maturing during period
Debt Maturing During Period
Gains attributable to changes in foreign currency exchange rates
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Before Tax
Guarantee obligation
Guarantee Obligations Maximum Exposure
Senior unsecured debt
Unsecured Debt
Reduction in short term borrowings.
Reduction in short-term borrowings
Reduction In Short Term Borrowings
Line Of Credit Facility [Table]
Line Of Credit Facility [Table]
Line of credit and commercial paper facilities.
Line of Credit and Commercial Paper Facilities [Member]
Line Of Credit And Commercial Paper Facilities [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Unused lines of credit available
Line Of Credit Facility Remaining Borrowing Capacity
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Measurement Frequency
Fair Value By Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency
Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value Measurements Recurring [Member]
Measurement Basis
Fair Value By Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value Disclosure Item Amounts [Default]
Portion At Fair Value Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value Measurement
Fair Value Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain]
Carrying Value [Member]
Carrying Reported Amount Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV
Fair Value By Fair Value Hierarchy Level [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Quoted Prices (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value Inputs Level1 [Member]
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value Inputs Level2 [Member]
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value Inputs Level3 [Member]
Balance Sheet Location
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other Assets [Member]
Other Assets [Member]
Accounts Payable, Accruals and Other Liabilities [Member]
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Railroad, Utilities and Energy [Member]
Fair Value [Member]
Estimate Of Fair Value Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equity method investments - carrying value
Loans and finance receivables - carrying value
Derivative contract assets
Derivative Assets
Notes payable and other borrowings - carrying value
Equity method investments
Loans and finance receivables
Loans Receivable Fair Value Disclosure
Notes payable and other borrowings
Debt Instrument Fair Value
Fair value measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation recurring basis asset gain (loss) included in regulatory assets and liabilities.
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Investments in Fixed Maturity and Equity Securities [Member]
Securities Assets [Member]
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Value
Gains (losses) included in earnings
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Gain Loss Included In Earnings1
Gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Gain Loss Included In Other Comprehensive Income Loss
Gains (losses) included in regulatory assets and liabilities
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Gain Loss Included In Regulatory Assets And Liabilities
Acquisitions, dispositions and settlements
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Purchases Sales Issuances Settlements
Ending Balance
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in regulatory assets and liabilities of financial instrument classified as a derivative asset (liability) after deduction of derivative liability (asset), measured using unobservable inputs that reflect the entity's own assumption about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing.
Net derivative contract liabilities - Beginning Balance
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis With Unobservable Inputs
Net derivative contract liabilities - Gains (losses) included in earnings
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Gain Loss Included In Earnings
Net derivative contract liabilities - Gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Gain Loss Included In Other Comprehensive Income Loss
Net derivative contract liabilities - Gains (losses) included in regulatory assets and liabilities
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Gain Loss Included In Regulatory Assets And Liabilities
Net derivative contract liabilities - Acquisitions, dispositions and settlements
Fair Value Net Derivative Asset Liability Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Purchases Sales Issues Settlements
Net derivative contract liabilities - Ending Balance
Equity securities FV-NI, term.
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Table]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Table]
Measurement Input Type
Measurement Input Type [Axis]
Measurement Input Type
Measurement Input Type [Domain]
Expected Duration [Member]
Measurement Input Expected Term [Member]
Weighted Average [Member]
Weighted Average [Member]
Financial Instrument
Financial Instrument [Axis]
Financial Instruments
Transfers And Servicing Of Financial Instruments Types Of Financial Instruments [Domain]
Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock [Member]
Valuation Approach and Technique
Valuation Technique [Axis]
Valuation Approach and Technique
Valuation Technique [Domain]
Discounted Cash Flow [Member]
Valuation Technique Discounted Cash Flow [Member]
Measurement inputs, discount for transferability restrictions and subordination.
Discount for Transferability Restrictions and Subordination [Member]
Measurement Inputs Discount For Transferability Restrictions And Subordination [Member]
Common stock warrants.
Common Stock Warrants [Member]
Common Stock Warrants [Member]
Valuation technique, warrant pricing model.
Warrant Pricing Model [Member]
Valuation Technique Warrant Pricing Model [Member]
Volatility [Member]
Measurement Input Option Volatility [Member]
Option Pricing Model [Member]
Valuation Technique Option Pricing Model [Member]
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Unobservable inputs, term
Equity Securities F V N I Term
Unobservable inputs
Equity Securities Fv Ni Measurement Input
Derivative contract liabilities, fair value
Unobservable inputs
Derivative Liability Measurement Input
Equity securities Fv Ni, description.
Acquisition of preferred and common stock warrants.
Acquisition of preferred and common stock warrants
Acquisition Of Preferred And Common Stock Warrants
Investments in equity securities, description
Equity Securities Fv Ni Description
Schedule Of Stock By Class [Table]
Schedule Of Stock By Class [Table]
Class A [Member]
Class B [Member]
Share Repurchase Program
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Common stock repurchase program approved by Berkshire's Board of Directors.
Common Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
Common Stock Repurchase Program [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock Shares Authorized
Preferred Stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock Shares Issued
Conversion of shares from one class to another class of stock.
Shares issued, beginning balance
Common Stock Shares Issued
Treasury shares, beginning balance
Treasury Stock Shares
Shares outstanding, beginning balance
Common Stock Shares Outstanding
Conversions of Class A common stock to Class B common stock
Conversion Of Shares From One Class To Another Class Of Stock
Treasury stock acquired
Treasury Stock Shares Acquired
Shares issued, ending balance
Treasury shares, ending balance
Shares outstanding, ending balance
Common Stock, par value per share
Common Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share
Common Stock, shares authorized
Common Stock Shares Authorized
The number of votes to which a shareholder is entitled.
The number of shares obtainable from converting one share from one class to another share in another class.
Number of votes entitled per share, number
Common Stock Voting Rights Number Shares Per Class Of Stock
Number of shares of Class B stock obtainable from converting one Class A share
Number Of Shares Obtainable From Converting One Share From One Class To Another Class
Shares outstanding
Minimum cash, cash equivalents and U.S. Treasury Bills threshold after repurchase of common stock shares that are held in treasury.
Shares repurchase, authorization description
Treasury Stock Acquired Repurchase Authorization
Minimum cash, cash equivalents and U.S. Treasury Bills threshold after repurchase of common stock shares, amount
Minimum Cash Cash Equivalents And U S Treasury Bills Threshold After Repurchase Of Common Stock Shares
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Continuing Operations
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table]
Unrealized appreciation of investments, net [Member]
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain Loss [Member]
Foreign currency translation [Member]
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Defined benefit pension plans [Member]
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Other accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the parent.
Other AOCI transactions [Member]
Other Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Beginning Balance
Other comprehensive income, net
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Portion Attributable To Parent
Ending Balance
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Schedule of supplemental cash flow information.
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Cash paid during the period for income taxes
Income Taxes Paid Net
Cash paid during the period for interest
Interest Paid
Disaggregation Of Revenue [Table]
Disaggregation Of Revenue [Table]
Segments
Statement Business Segments [Axis]
Segments
Segment [Domain]
Represents the manufacturing businesses reportable segment.
Manufacturing Businesses [Member]
Manufacturing Businesses [Member]
Represents McLane Company.
McLane Company [Member]
Mc Lane Company [Member]
Represents the service and retailing reportable segment.
Service and Retailing Businesses [Member]
Service And Retailing Businesses [Member]
Represents Insurance, corporate and other.
Insurance Corporate And Other [Member]
Insurance Corporate And Other [Member]
Manufactured industrial and commercial products.
Industrial and Commercial Products [Member]
Manufactured Industrial And Commercial Products [Member]
Manufactured building products.
Building Products [Member]
Manufactured Building Products [Member]
Manufactured consumer products.
Consumer Products [Member]
Manufactured Consumer Products [Member]
Grocery and convenience store distribution.
Grocery and Convenience Store Distribution [Member]
Grocery And Convenience Store Distribution [Member]
Food and Beverage Distribution [Member]
Food And Beverage [Member]
Auto sales.
Auto Sales [Member]
Auto Sales [Member]
Other retail and wholesale distribution.
Other Retail and Wholesale Distribution [Member]
Other Retail And Wholesale Distribution [Member]
Service [Member]
Service [Member]
Electricity and natural gas.
Electricity and Natural Gas [Member]
Electricity And Natural Gas [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Disaggregation Of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue from contracts with customers
Other revenues
Revenue Not From Contract With Customer
Revenue Performance Obligation Satisfied Over Time [Abstract]
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction [Table]
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction [Table]
Other sales and service contracts.
Other Sales and Service Contracts [Member]
Other Sales And Service Contracts [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction Start Date [Axis]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation
Performance obligations expected to be satisfied, period
Revenue Remaining Performance Obligation Expected Timing Of Satisfaction Period1
Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table]
Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table]
Consolidation Items
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Businesses [Member]
Operating Segments [Member]
Represents the aggregate total of adjustments for nonoperating corporate items, reconciling items and eliminations.
Corporate, Eliminations and Other [Member]
Corporate Reconciling Items And Eliminations [Member]
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Insurance Group.
Insurance Group [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Insurance Group [Member]
Subsegments
Subsegments [Axis]
Subsegments
Subsegments [Domain]
Represents GEICO.
GEICO [Member]
Geico [Member]
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group.
Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group [Member]
Represents Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group.
Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group [Member]
Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Premiums earned
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Material Reconciling Items [Member]
Income Statement Location
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Primary financial statement caption representing insurance premiums earned.
Insurance Premiums Earned [Member]
Premiums Earned Net [Member]
Interest, Dividend and Other Investment Income [Member]
Investment Income [Member]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes from operating businesses
Operating Income Loss
Interest expense, not allocated to segments
Earnings (loss) before income taxes