Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Signature Group Holdings, Inc.	$ 767	$ (5,859)	$ 378	$ (10,548)
Net change in unrealized gains during the period:
Investment securities, available for sale	0	0	0	156
Reclassification of realized amounts included in net earnings (loss)	0	0	0	(380)
Other comprehensive loss	0	0	0	(224)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$ 767	$ (5,859)	$ 378	$ (10,772)