Reserves for Losses (Details 1) (USD $) In Millions	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Cardmember Receivables And Related Reserves Evaluated Separately and Collectively For Impairment [Abstract]
Cardmember receivables evaluated separately for impairment	$ 159	$ 114
Reserves on cardmember receivables evaluated separately for impairment	94	63
Cardmember receivables evaluated collectively for impairment	39,600	37,152
Reserves on cardmember receivables evaluated collectively for impairment	$ 294	$ 323