XML 27 R86.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v2.4.1.9
Fair Value (Unobservable Input Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2015
Mar. 31, 2014
Consolidated Securitization Entities    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period $ 12us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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= met_VariableInterestEntityPrimaryBeneficiaryConsolidatedSecuritizationEntitiesMember
$ 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= met_VariableInterestEntityPrimaryBeneficiaryConsolidatedSecuritizationEntitiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= met_VariableInterestEntityPrimaryBeneficiaryConsolidatedSecuritizationEntitiesMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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Sales (1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
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(1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
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Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
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Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
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12us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
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Transfers out of Level 3 (1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
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Balance, end of period 10us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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11us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period (13)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationsRecurringBasisLiabilityValue
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(28)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationsRecurringBasisLiabilityValue
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncome
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncome
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Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityPurchases
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityPurchases
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Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilitySales
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilitySales
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityIssues
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityIssues
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Settlements 1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilitySettlements
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13us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilitySettlements
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Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationLiabilityTransfersIntoLevel3
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationLiabilityTransfersIntoLevel3
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Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationLiabilityTransfersOutOfLevel3
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationLiabilityTransfersOutOfLevel3
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Balance, end of period (12)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationsRecurringBasisLiabilityValue
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(15)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationsRecurringBasisLiabilityValue
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Consolidated Securitization Entities | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInEarnings
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Consolidated Securitization Entities | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInEarnings
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Consolidated Securitization Entities | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInEarnings
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Consolidated Securitization Entities | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisLiabilityGainLossIncludedInEarnings
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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Interest rate contracts    
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 63us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
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13us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 15us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
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Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
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Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
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0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
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0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
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Settlements (8)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
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(1)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
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Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
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Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
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Balance, end of period 69us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
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Interest rate contracts | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Interest rate contracts | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Interest rate contracts | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
6us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
7us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
6us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Interest rate contracts | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts    
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period (68)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
(11)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
(2)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Settlements 15us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
1us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Balance, end of period (67)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
(13)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (11)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (14)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(1)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (11)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Credit contracts    
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 12us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
29us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
(3)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Balance, end of period 10us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
20us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
Credit contracts | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Credit contracts | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Credit contracts | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(6)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (2)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(6)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(6)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Credit contracts | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_CreditRiskContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Equity market contracts    
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period (307)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
(317)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Settlements 1us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Balance, end of period (357)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
(356)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
Equity market contracts | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Equity market contracts | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Equity market contracts | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (52)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(42)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (52)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(43)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (52)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
(42)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Equity market contracts | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
4us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
4us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
4us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EquityContractMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Net Embedded Derivatives    
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 430us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
1,258us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (2)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
(5)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationPurchases
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSales
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationIssues
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Settlements (201)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
(193)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationSettlements
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Balance, end of period 278us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
980us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisWithUnobservableInputs
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
Net Embedded Derivatives | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Net Embedded Derivatives | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
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0us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Net Embedded Derivatives | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 22us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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(94)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
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/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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(95)us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 22us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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(94)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Net Embedded Derivatives | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 25us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
16us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 24us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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15us-gaap_FairValueNetDerivativeAssetLiabilityMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputsReconciliationGainLossIncludedInEarnings
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 25us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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16us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis
= us-gaap_EmbeddedDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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FVO general account securities    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 95us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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29us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
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= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
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Sales (6)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
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Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 89us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
29us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
FVO general account securities | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
FVO general account securities | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
FVO general account securities | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
FVO general account securities | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionGeneralAccountSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 455us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
603us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Purchases 108us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
237us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Sales (145)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
(300)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Transfers into Level 3 39us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
96us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (27)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
(26)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
Balance, end of period 412us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
624us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (18)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
14us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (15)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
14us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) (15)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
14us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
FVO contractholder-directed unit-linked investments | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_FairValueOptionContractholderDirectedUnitLinkedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Residential Mortgage Loans — FVO    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 308us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
338us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Purchases 60us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
28us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Sales (49)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
(5)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Settlements (12)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
(12)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Balance, end of period 329us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
352us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
Residential Mortgage Loans — FVO | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 22us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
3us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 22us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
3us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 22us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
3us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Residential Mortgage Loans — FVO | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Residential Mortgage Loans — FVO | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Residential Mortgage Loans — FVO | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= met_ResidentialLoansHeldForInvestmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
U.S. corporate    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 6,942us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
7,148us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 57us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
160us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Purchases 431us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
651us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Sales (133)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
(206)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 128us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
459us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (104)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
(827)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 7,321us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
7,378us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
U.S. corporate | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
U.S. corporate | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(7)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(7)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(7)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
U.S. corporate | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
U.S. corporate | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Foreign corporate    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 6,490us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
6,704us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (132)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
120us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Purchases 178us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
471us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Sales (109)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
(109)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 93us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
435us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (110)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
(1,129)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 6,408us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
6,501us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
Foreign corporate | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 9us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
9us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 6us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
9us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 6us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
9us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Foreign corporate | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (11)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Foreign corporate | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Foreign corporate | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignCorporateDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Foreign government    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 1,311us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
2,235us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 23us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
14us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Purchases 43us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
74us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Sales (53)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
(52)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 215us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
231us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (137)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
(957)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 1,384us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
1,545us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
Foreign government | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 4us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
6us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 3us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
5us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 3us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
5us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Foreign government | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (22)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(6)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Foreign government | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Foreign government | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ForeignGovernmentDebtSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
U.S. Treasury and agency    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
62us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
25us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
(42)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
Balance, end of period 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
45us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
U.S. Treasury and agency | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
U.S. Treasury and agency | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
U.S. Treasury and agency | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
U.S. Treasury and agency | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USTreasuryAndGovernmentMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
RMBS    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 4,383us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
2,957us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (12)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(12)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Purchases 509us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
571us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Sales (240)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(192)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
147us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (110)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(50)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 4,545us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
3,439us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
RMBS | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 13us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
10us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 12us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
10us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 12us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
10us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
RMBS | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 2us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
8us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(1)us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
RMBS | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
RMBS | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ResidentialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
CMBS    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 765us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
972us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (7)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(25)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Purchases 73us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
103us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Sales (119)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(155)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
24us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (68)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
(238)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 644us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
682us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
CMBS | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
CMBS | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
CMBS | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
CMBS | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommercialMortgageBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
ABS    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 2,244us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
4,210us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (11)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
75us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Purchases 868us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
652us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Sales (212)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
(315)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers into Level 3 8us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
578us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (437)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
(2,362)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
Balance, end of period 2,453us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
2,800us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
ABS | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
5us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
ABS | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (7)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
(43)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
ABS | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
ABS | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
State and political subdivision    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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10us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Purchases 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Transfers into Level 3 2us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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21us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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(10)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Balance, end of period 2us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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21us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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State and political subdivision | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_USStatesAndPoliticalSubdivisionsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
State and political subdivision | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
State and political subdivision | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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State and political subdivision | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Common stock    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 95us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
177us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 2us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
(8)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Purchases 5us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
3us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Sales (5)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
(26)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Transfers into Level 3 1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
38us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (3)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Balance, end of period 94us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
203us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
Common stock | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Common stock | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
19us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Common stock | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Common stock | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Non-redeemable preferred stock    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 250us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
395us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (4)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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6us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Purchases 4us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
40us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (6)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
Balance, end of period 244us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
441us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
Non-redeemable preferred stock | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Non-redeemable preferred stock | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Non-redeemable preferred stock | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Non-redeemable preferred stock | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_NonredeemablePreferredStockMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Actively Traded Securities    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 5us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
12us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Purchases 5us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
11us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Sales 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
(5)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Transfers out of Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
(7)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Balance, end of period 10us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
11us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
Actively Traded Securities | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Actively Traded Securities | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Actively Traded Securities | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Actively Traded Securities | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_TradingAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Short-term Investments    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 336us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
254us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
(1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Purchases 1,332us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
947us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Sales (25)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
(59)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Settlements 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Transfers into Level 3 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Transfers out of Level 3 (285)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
(110)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Balance, end of period 1,358us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
1,032us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Short-term Investments | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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1us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeExpenseMember
Short-term Investments | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsMember1
Short-term Investments | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsMember
Short-term Investments | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
= met_PolicyholderBenefitAndClaimMember
Separate account assets    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of period 1,922us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
1,465us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Purchases 231us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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321us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchases
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= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
Sales (127)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
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(83)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSales
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Issuances 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
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25us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetIssues
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Settlements (1)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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(2)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetSettlements
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
Transfers into Level 3 1us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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18us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersIntoLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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Transfers out of Level 3 (6)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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(58)us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersOutOfLevel3
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
Balance, end of period 2,056us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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1,730us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
Separate account assets | Net investment income    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Separate account assets | Net investment gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 36us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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44us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Separate account assets | Net derivative gains (losses)    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Separate account assets | Policyholder benefits and claims    
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]    
Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings1
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Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward]    
Changes in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Net Income (Loss) $ 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= met_SeparateAccountAssetsMember
/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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$ 0us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisChangeInUnrealizedGainLoss
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
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/ us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis
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