Investments (Net Investment Gains Losses - Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Non-investment portfolio gains (losses)	$ (20)	$ 12	$ (26)	$ 46
Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions	(118)	90	(225)	165
MetLife Assurance Limited [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Non-investment portfolio gains (losses)	$ 0		$ (633)