Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Signature Group Holdings, Inc.	$ 1,275	$ (9,536)	$ (9,092)	$ (31,514)
Net change in unrealized losses during period:
Investment securities, available for sale	(57)	(6)	(39)	(6)
Reclassification of realized amounts included in net earnings (loss)	(71)	0	(71)	0
Other comprehensive loss	(128)	(6)	(110)	(6)
Total comprehensive earnings (loss)	$ 1,147	$ (9,542)	$ (9,202)	$ (31,520)