Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to Signature Group Holdings, Inc.	$ (1,924)	$ (3,890)	$ (4,690)	$ (5,136)
Net change in unrealized gains during period:
Investment securities, available for sale		(970)	156	(609)
Reclassification of realized amounts included in net loss		620	(380)	620
Other comprehensive income (loss)		(350)	(224)	11
Total comprehensive loss	$ (1,924)	$ (4,240)	$ (4,914)	$ (5,125)