Investments (Net Investment Gains Losses - Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Non-investment portfolio gains (losses)	$ (2)	$ 27	$ (6)	$ 34
Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions	(112)	17	(107)	75
MetLife Assurance Limited [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Non-investment portfolio gains (losses)	$ (138)		$ (633)