Retrospective Responsibility Plan Changes in the Escrow Account (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Escrow Account [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 2,857
Deposit into the litigation escrow account	1,565
American Express settlement payments	(140)	(142)
Ending balance	$ 4,282

- Definition

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations.

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