Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Investments [Abstract]
Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table]
Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table]
Investment Type [Axis]
Investment Type [Axis]
Investment Type Categorization [Domain]
Investments [Domain]
Derivatives and other
Derivatives and other [Member]
Derivatives and other [Member]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain]
Fixed Maturities
Debt Securities [Member]
Perpetual Securities
Perpetual Securities [Member]
Perpetual Securities
Equity Securities
Equity Securities [Member]
Other assets
Other Assets [Member]
Information by Category of Debt Security [Axis]
Debt Security Category [Axis]
Gain (Loss) on Investments, Including Marketable Securities and Investments Held at Cost, Categories of Investments
Marketable Securities and Investments Held at Cost [Domain]
Available-for-sale Securities
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]
Held-to-maturity Securities
Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items]
Gross gains from sales
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains
Gross losses from sales
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses
Net gains (losses) from redemptions
Gains Losses From Redemptions Of Securities Net
Gains (losses) from redemptions of securities, net
Other-than-temporary impairment losses realized
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net
Derivative gains (losses)
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax
Other
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets for Financial Service Operations
Total realized investment gains (losses)
Gain (Loss) on Investments
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Pension liability adjustment
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income loss before reclassifications net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income net of tax
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Balance, end of period
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Stockholders Equity Note [Table]
Share Repurchases, by Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchases, by Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Authorization 2008
Share Repurchase Authorization 2008 [Member]
Share Repurchase Authorization 2008
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Common stock, share repurchase
Treasury Stock Shares Acquired In Open Market
Number of shares that have been repurchased from the open market during the period and are being held in treasury.
Common stock, share repurchase, dollar amount
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Remaining common stock available for purchase under share repurchase authorizations
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased
Anti-dilutive share-based awards
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Investments Other Than Consolidated Variable Interest Entities
Investments other than Consolidated Variable Interest Entities [Member]
Investments Other Than Consolidated Variable Interest Entities
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Securities available for sale, fixed maturities, amortized cost
Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Securities available for sale, perpetual securities, amortized cost
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual securities, amortized cost
This item represents the aggregate amortized cost of investments in perpetual securities as of the balance sheet date and which are categorized as available-for-sale.
Securities available for sale, equity securities, cost
Available-for-sale Equity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Securities held to maturity, fixed maturities, fair value
Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value
Common stock, par value
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Asset derivatives
Derivative Asset
Liability derivatives
Derivative Liability
Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis]
Variable Interest Entities [Axis]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain]
Variable Interest Entity, Not Consolidated
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]
Held-to-maturity Securities
Held-to-maturity Securities [Table Text Block]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]
Economic Maturities of Investments in Perpetual Securities
Economic Maturities of Investments in Perpetual Securities [Table Text Block]
Economic Maturities of Investments in Perpetual Securities [Table Text Block]
Bank and Financial Institution Investments
Bank and Financial Institution Investments [Table Text Block]
Bank and Financial Institution Investments [Table Text Block]
Gain (Loss) on Investments
Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block]
Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses on Investment Securities
Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses on Investment Securities [Table Text Block]
Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses on Investment Securities [Table Text Block]
Net Effect on Shareholders' Equity of Unrealized Gains and Losses from Investment Securities
Net Effect on Shareholders' Equity of Unrealized Gains and Losses from Investment Securities [Table Text Block]
Net Effect on Shareholders' Equity of Unrealized Gains and Losses from Investment Securities [Table Text Block]
Investments Gross Unrealized Loss Aging
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]
Investments in Unrealized Loss Position
Investments In Unrealized Loss Position Table [Table Text Block]
Bank and Financial Institution Investments in Unrealized Loss Position [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Investments in Variable Interest Entities
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]
Securities Lending
Schedule of Securities Financing Transactions [Table Text Block]
Investments Classified by Economic Maturity Date [Table]
Investments Classified By Economic Maturity Date [Table]
Investments Classified by Economic Maturity Date [Table]
Statement, Business Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Aflac Japan
Aflac Japan Member
Aflac Japan
Aflac U.S.
Aflac US Member
Aflac U.S.
Investments Classified by Economic Maturity Date [Line Items]
Investments Classified By Economic Maturity Date [Line Items]
Investments Classified by Economic Maturity Date [Line Items]
Due after one year through five years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost
This item represents perpetual securities, at cost, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any, which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Due after five years through 10 years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Amortized Cost
This item represents perpetual securities, at cost, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any, which are expected to mature after five years and through ten years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Due after 10 years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost
This item represents perpetual securities, at cost, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any, which are expected to mature after ten years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Total perpetual securities available for sale, amortized cost
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, Amortized Cost
This item represents the total of all perpetual securities grouped by economic maturity dates, at cost, net of adjustments including accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Due after one year through five years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value
This item represents the fair value of perpetual securities which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Due after five years through 10 years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value
This item represents the fair value of perpetual securities which are expected to mature after five years and through ten years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Due after 10 years
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value
Available for sale Securities, Perpetual Securities, Economic Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value
Total perpetual securities available for sale, fair value
Available for Sale Securities Perpetual Securities Economic Maturities Fair Value
This item represents the total of all perpetual securities grouped by economic maturity dates, at fair value, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities.
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Hierarchy, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Hierarchy Levels of Assets and Liabilities Carried at Cost or Amortized Cost
Schedule Of Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Carried At Cost With Fair Values Disclosed [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments, carried at cost or amortized cost whose fair values are only disclosed. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
Fair Value Assets Available-for-Sale Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Assets Available-for-Sale Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for Fair Value Assets Available-for-Sale Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table]
Fair Value Assets Held-To-Maturity Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Assets Held-To-Maturity Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Assets Held-To-Maturity Securities Primary Pricing Sources Table Text Block [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs Assets Quantitative Information
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs Liabilities Quantitative Information
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Other business segments
Other Segments [Member]
Total Business Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Interest expense, noninsurance operations
Interest Expense [Member]
Corporate and eliminations
Corporate And Eliminations Member
Corporate and Eliminations
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Pretax operating earnings
Operating Income (Loss)
Realized investment gains (losses)
Earnings before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Income taxes applicable to pretax operating earnings
Income taxes applicable to pretax operating earnings
Income taxes applicable to pretax operating earnings.
Effect of foreign currency translation on operating earnings
Effect of foreign currency translation on operating earnings
Effect of foreign currency translation on operating earnings.
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Securities available for sale, fixed maturities, fair value
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities
Securities available for sale, perpetual securities, fair value
Available-for-sale Securities Perpetual Securities
For an unclassified balance sheet, total of perpetual securities categorized as neither held-to-maturity nor trading. Perpetual securities are reported at fair value; unrealized gains and losses of such securities are excluded from earnings and included in other comprehensive income, a separate component of shareholders' equity, unless the Available-for-sale Security is designated as a hedge or is determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis. All or a portion of the unrealized holding gain or loss of an Available-for-sale Security that is designated as being hedged in a fair value hedge shall be recognized in earnings during the period of the hedge, as should other than temporary declines in fair value below cost basis.
Cost or Amortized Cost
Held-to-maturity Securities
Assets, amortized cost
Assets, Amortized Cost Disclosure
Assets, Amortized Cost Disclosure
Assets, fair value
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Available-for-sale Securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Unamortized unrealized gains on securities transferred to held to maturity
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unamortized Unrealized Gains on Securities Transferred to Held to Maturity
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unamortized Unrealized Gains on Securities Transferred to Held-to-Maturity
Deferred income taxes
Accumulated other comprehensive income loss deferred income tax on investment securities
Accumulated other comprehensive income loss, deferred income tax on investment securities.
Shareholders' equity, unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table]
Japan government and agencies
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]
Mortgage- and asset-backed Securities
Asset-backed Securities [Member]
Public Utilities
Public Utility, Bonds [Member]
Sovereign and Supranational
Sovereign Debt [Member]
Banks/financial Institutions
Banks And Financial Institutions [Member]
Banks and Financial Institutions
Other Corporate
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
U.S. Government and Agencies
US Treasury and Government [Member]
Municipalities
Municipal Bonds [Member]
Investment Secondary Categorization [Axis]
Investment Secondary Categorization [Axis]
Investments by Secondary Categorization [Domain]
Investments by Secondary Categorization [Domain]
Yen Denominated
Yen Denominated Securities [Member]
Yen Denominated Securities [Member]
Dollar Denominated
Dollar Denominated Securities [Member]
Dollar Denominated Securities
Fixed Maturities
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Cost or Amortized Cost
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis
Gross Unrealized Gains
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain
Gross Unrealized Losses
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss
Fair Value
Available-for-sale Securities
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Table]
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Table]
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Table]
US government and agencies
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]
Total Fair Value
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Fair Value
This item represents the fair value of securities in an unrealized loss position which are categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity.
Total Unrealized Losses
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Aggregate Losses
This item represents the excess of [amortized] cost over fair value of securities in a loss position and which are categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity.
Less than 12 months Fair Value
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less Than Twelve Months Fair Value
This item represents the fair value of securities categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months.
Less than 12 months Unrealized Losses
Securities Continous Unrealized Loss Position Less than 12 months Aggregate Losses
This item represents the excess of [amortized] cost over fair value of securities that have been in a loss position for less than twelve months for those securities which are categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity .
12 months or longer Fair Value
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Twelve Months or Longer Fair Value
This item represents the fair value of securities categorized as available-for-sale or held-to-maturity that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer.
12 months or longer Unrealized Losses
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position 12 Months Or Longer Aggregate Losses
This item represents the excess of [amortized] cost over fair value of securities that have been in a loss position for twelve months or longer for those securities which are categorized as available-for sale or held-to-maturity .
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business and Basis of Presentation
Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reinsurance
Reinsurance Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassification Policy
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Description of Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block]
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table]
Corporate
Corporate Segment [Member]
Intercompany eliminations
Consolidation, Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Insurance Business Segments
Number of Reportable Segments
Earned premiums
Premiums Earned, Net
Net investment income
Net Investment Income
Other income
Other Income
Total revenues
Revenues
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table]
Currency [Axis]
Currency [Axis]
All Currencies [Domain]
All Currencies [Domain]
Japan, Yen
Japan, Yen
United States of America, Dollars
United States of America, Dollars
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Axis]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Axis]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Axis]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Domain]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Domain]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input Type [Domain]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), CDS Spreads and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), CDS Spreads and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), CDS Spreads and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), and CDS Spreads [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), and CDS Spreads [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), Interest Rates (JPY), and CDS Spreads [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), interest rates (JPY), and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), interest rates (JPY), and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Fair Value, Unobservable Input, Interest Rates (USD), interest rates (JPY), and Foreign Exchange Rates [Member]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Foreign currency swaps
Currency Swap [Member]
Credit default swaps
Credit Default Swap [Member]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Assets
Assets [Member]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Lower Limit
Minimum [Member]
Upper Limit
Maximum [Member]
Weighted Average
Weighted Average [Member]
Valuation Technique [Axis]
Valuation Technique [Axis]
Valuation Technique [Domain]
Valuation Technique [Domain]
Consensus Pricing Valuation Technique
Consensus Pricing Valuation Technique [Member]
Consensus Pricing Valuation Technique [Member]
Net Asset Value Valuation Technique
Net Asset Value Valuation Technique [Member]
Net Asset Value Valuation Technique [Member]
Discounted Cash Flow Valuation Technique
Discounted cash flow valuation technique [Member]
Discounted Cash Flow Valuation Technique [Member]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Volatility Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Volatility Rate
Measure of dispersion, in percentage terms (for instance, the standard deviation or variance) for a given currency pair.
Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes
Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes
Available-for-sale Securities
Fair Value Inputs, Base Correlation
Fair Value Inputs, Base Correlation
Fair Value Inputs, Base Correlation
Fair Value Inputs, Entity Credit Risk
Fair Value Inputs, Entity Credit Risk
Fair Value Inputs, Foreign Exchange Rates
Fair Value Inputs, Foreign Exchange Rates
Fair Value Inputs, Foreign Exchange Rates
Fair Value Inputs, Recovery Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Recovery Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Recovery Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate
Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate
Length of Volatility of Japanese Yen to US Dollar Exchange Rate
Length of Volatility of Japanese Yen to US Dollar Exchange Rate
Length of Volatility of Japanese Yen to US Dollar Exchange Rate
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Government and Agencies Debt Securities
Government and Agencies Debt Securities [Member]
Government and Agencies Debt Securities
Third party pricing vendor valuation technique [Member]
Third party pricing vendor valuation technique [Member]
Third party pricing vendor valuation technique [Member]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Investments [Table]
Schedule of Investments [Table]
Parent Company
Parent Company [Member]
Minimum Upper Limit
Minimum Maximum [Member]
Minimum, Maximum
Investments, by Tier [Axis]
Investment Sector [Axis]
Investments, by Tier [Domain]
Investment Sector [Domain]
Tier I
Tier I [Member]
Tier I [Member]
Upper Tier II
Upper Tier I I [Member]
Upper Tier II
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Reclassified investments from the held-to-maturity portfolio to the available-for-sale portfolio, number of investments
Held to Maturity Securities Transferred to Available for Sale Securities Number of Investments
Number of investments reclassified during the period from the held-to-maturity portfolio to the available-for-sale portfolio.
Reclassified investments from the held-to-maturity portfolio to the available-for-sale portfolio, amortized cost
Held-to-maturity Securities, Transferred Security, at Carrying Value
Reclassified investments from the held-to-maturity portfolio to the available-for-sale portfolio, aggregate unrealized gain (loss)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Transferred to Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities, amortized cost
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis
Perpetual securities, interest coupons that were fixed at issuance subsequently change to a floating short-term interest rate
Discussion of Perpetual Securities Interest Rate
Discussion of Perpetual Securities Interest Rate
Maturity date (in years)
Perpetual Securities Economic Maturity Period
Perpetual securities economic maturity period.
Perpetual securities, floating short-term interest rate basis point above market index
Perpetual securities floating short term interest rate basis above market index
Perpetual securities floating short term interest rate above market index.
Unrealized Gain (Loss)
Number of issuers of VIEs not-consolidated
Number of issuers
Number of Issuers
Percentage that the lending policy requires that the fair value of the securities and/or unrestricted cash received as collateral be of the fair value of the loaned securities
Collateral Requirements Minimum Percentage Collateral to Fair Value of Securities Loaned Under Security Lending Transactions
Percentage that the lending policy requires that the fair value of the securities and/or cash received as collateral be of the fair value of the loaned securities in securities lending transactions.
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Derivatives
Derivative [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Purchases
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Issuances
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances
Sales
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales
Settlements
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements
Transfers into Level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3
Transfers out of Level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3
Balance, end of period
Change in unrealized gains (losses) still held
Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Change In Unrealized Gains Losses Still Held
This element represents the amount of total gains or losses for the period, included in earnings, attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets classified as Level 3 that are still held at the end of the reporting period.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Offsetting Liabilities [Table]
Offsetting Liabilities [Table]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral by Type [Axis]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral by Type [Axis]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral by Type [Domain]
Financial Instruments Owned and Pledged as Collateral, Type [Domain]
Japanese Government Bonds
Japanese Bonds [Member]
Japanese Government Bonds
Cash
Cash [Member]
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Axis]
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Axis]
Information by offsetting asset or liability.
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Domain]
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Domain]
Offsetting by assets and liabilities.
Offsetting liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Member]
Disclosure of information about derivative and financial liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements.
Transaction Type [Axis]
Transaction Type [Axis]
Transaction [Domain]
Transaction [Domain]
Securities lending and similar arrangements
Securities lending and similar arrangements [Member]
Securities lending and similar arrangements [Member]
Foreign currency forwards
Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Foreign currency options
Foreign Exchange Option [Member]
Interest rate swaptions
Interest Rate Swaption [Member]
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Offsetting Liabilities [Line Items]
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value
Gross amount of recognized derivative liabilities
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Gross amount of assets offset in balance sheet
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Net amount of derivative liabilities presented in balance sheet
Financial instruments, amount not offset against derivative liabilities in balance sheet
Financial instruments, amount not offset against derivative liabilities in balance sheet
Financial instruments, carrying value, amount not offset against derivative liabilities in balance sheet.
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities
Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Securities and Cash
DerivativeCollateralRightToReclaimSecuritiesAndCash
Derivative Collateral Right To Reclaim Securities And Cash
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Gross amounts of recognized financial instruments
Gross Amounts of Recognized Financial Instruments
The gross amounts of recognized financial instruments under the FASB ASU on Required Disclosures for Offsetting and Liabilities.
Gross amounts offset in balance sheet
Gross Amounts Offset in Statement of Financial Position
The gross amounts offset to determine the net amounts presented in the statement of financial position.
Net amounts of liabilities presented in balance sheet
Net Amounts of Financial Instruments Presented in Balance Sheet
Presents the net of gross amounts of recognized financial instruments and the gross amount offset in the Balance Sheet.
Carrying value of financial instruments not offset in balance sheet
Carrying value of financial instruments not offset in balance sheet
Carrying value of financial instruments not offset in balance sheet.
Collateral not offset in balance sheet
Collateral not offset in balance sheet
Collateral not offset in balance sheet
Financial instruments, amount offset against collateral
Financial instruments, amount offset against collateral
Financial instruments amount offset against collateral
Corporate Bonds
Corporate Bond Securities [Member]
Type of Impairment [Axis]
Type of Impairment [Axis]
Type of Impairment [Axis]
Type of Impairment [Domain]
Type of Impairment [Domain]
Type of Impairment [Domain]
Credit-related impairment
Credit Related Impairment [Member]
Credit Related Impairment [Member]
Severity and duration of decline in fair value impairment
Severity and duration of decline in fair value related impairment [Member]
Severity and duration of decline in fair value related impairment [Member]
Change in intent impairment
Change In Intent Impairment [Member]
Change In Intent Impairment [Member]
Other-than-temporary impairment losses
Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]
Options Outstanding - Stock Option Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Options Outstanding - Weighted-Average Remaining Term (Yrs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options Outstanding - Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Options Outstanding - Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Exercisable - Stock Option Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Options Exercisable - Weighted-Average Remaining Term (Yrs.)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options Exercisable - Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Options Exercisable - Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
3.625% senior notes due June 2023
Senior Notes Three Point Six Two Five Percent Due June Twenty Twenty Three [Member]
Senior Notes Three Point Six Two Five Percent Due June Twenty Twenty Three [Member]
Notes Payable
Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt instrument, interest rate, stated percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument Maturity Period
Debt Instrument Maturity Period
Debt Instrument Maturity Period
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Description
Debt Instrument Effective Principal Amount After Cross Currency Swap
Debt Instrument Effective Principal Amount After Cross Currency Swap
Debt Instrument Effective Principal Amount After Cross Currency Swap
Notes payable, effective interest rate
Debt Instrument Effective Interest Rate Percentage After Interest Rate Swap
Effective interest rate percentage on a debt instrument after entering into an interest rate swap.
Line of credit facility term
Debt Instrument, Term
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of credit facility, interest rate description
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description
Line of credit facility, commitment fee percentage
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage
Line of credit facility, amount outstanding
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding
Debt instrument, debt default, amount
Debt Instrument, Debt Default, Amount
Fair Value and Notional Amount of Derivatives with Counterparty Credit Risk
Fair Value and Notional Amount of Derivatives With Counterparty Credit Risk [Table Text Block]
Fair Value and Notional Amount of Derivatives with Counterparty Credit Risk [Table Text Block]
Maximum Potential Risk, Fair Value, Weighted Average Years to Maturity, and Underlying Referenced Credit Obligation Type for Credit Derivatives
Disclosure of Credit Derivatives [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location
Schedule of Fair Value Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Offsetting Assets
Offsetting Assets [Table Text Block]
Offsetting Liabilities
Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Non-derivative hedging instruments
Non-derivative Hedging Instruments [Member]
Non-derivative Hedging Instruments [Member]
Other
Other Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Cash flow hedges
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Fair value hedges
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Net investment hedge
Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Non-qualifying strategies
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income on Derivative (Effective Portion)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax
Derivative and non-derivative hedging instruments gain loss recognized in other comprehensive income effective portion before tax
Derivative and non-derivative hedging instruments gain loss recognized in other comprehensive income effective portion before tax
Derivative and non-derivative hedging instruments gain loss recognized in other comprehensive income effective portion before tax
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Premiums, principally supplemental health insurance
Realized investment gains (losses):
Realized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract]
Sales and redemptions
Marketable Securities, Realized Gain (Loss), Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments
Derivative and other gains (losses)
Gain loss on derivative instruments and other net pretax
Aggregate net gain (loss) on derivative instruments and other assets recognized in earnings during the period, before tax effects.
Benefits and expenses:
Benefits, Losses and Expenses [Abstract]
Benefits and claims
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Net
Acquisition and operating expenses:
Acquisition and operating expenses [Abstract]
Acquisition and Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost, Amortization Expense
Insurance commissions
Insurance Commissions
Insurance expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Other operating expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Total acquisition and operating expenses
Acquisition and Operating Cost and Expenses
Total acquisition and operating expenses, which includes amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, insurance commissions, insurance expenses, interest expense and other operating expenses.
Total benefits and expenses
Benefits, Losses and Expenses
Income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net earnings
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Net earnings per share:
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted-average outstanding common shares used in computing earnings per share (In thousands):
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Basic
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Cash dividends per share
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Axis]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Hedging Designation [Domain]
Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Net Derivatives Notional Amount
Derivative, Notional Amount
Net Derivatives Fair Value
Derivative, Fair Value, Net
Asset Derivatives Fair Value
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Liability Derivatives Fair Value
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Effects of Reinsurance [Table]
Effects of Reinsurance [Table]
Insurance Product Line [Axis]
Insurance Product Line [Axis]
Insurance Product Line [Domain]
Insurance Product Line [Domain]
Closed medical block
Closed medical block [Member]
Closed medical block [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Coinsurance reinsurance ceded percentage
Reinsurance Ceded Percentage
Reinsurance Percentage
Reinsurance deferred profit liability
Reinsurance deferred profit liability
Reinsurance deferred profit liability
Reinsurance recoverable
Reinsurance Recoverables
Ceded premiums payable
Ceded Premiums Payable
Ceded claims incurred during period
Policyholder Benefits and Claims Incurred, Ceded
Asset derivative, amortized cost
Derivative assets amortized cost disclosure
Derivative assets amortized cost disclosure
Liability derivatives, amortized cost
Derivative liabilities amortized cost disclosure
Derivative liabilities amortized cost disclosure
Amortized Cost
Total debt and perpetual securities amortized cost
Total debt and perpetual securities at amortized cost.
Fair Value
Total debt and perpetual securities fair value
Total debt and perpetual securities at fair value.
Liabilities
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
BENEFIT PLANS
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Total gains (losses) recognized for derivatives
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedging Instruments
Gains (losses) on derivatives excluded from effectiveness testing
Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Fair Value Hedge Effectiveness, Net
Gains (losses) on derivatives included in effectiveness testing
Gain loss from components included in assessment of fair value hedge effectiveness net
Gain (loss) from components included in assessment of fair value hedge effectiveness net
Gains (losses) recognized for hedged items
Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge
Ineffectiveness recognized for fair value hedge
Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosure [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain]
Japanese Pension Plan
Foreign Pension Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
U.S. Pension Plan
United States Pension Plan of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of net actuarial loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Net periodic (benefit) cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]
NOTES PAYABLE
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets:
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Total assets
Liabilities:
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]
Total liabilities
3.45% senior notes due August 2015
Senior Notes Three Point Four Five Percent Due August Twenty Fifteen [Member]
Senior Notes Three Point Four Five Percent Due August Twenty Fifteen [Member]
2.65% senior notes due February 2017
Senior Notes Two Point Six Five Percent Due February Twenty Seventeen [Member]
Senior Notes Two Point Six Five Percent Due February Twenty Seventeen [Member]
8.50% senior notes due May 2019
Senior Notes Eight Point Five Zero Percent Due May Twenty Nineteen [Member]
Senior Notes Eight Point Five Zero Percent Due May Twenty Nineteen [Member]
4.00% senior notes due February 2022
Senior Notes Four Point Zero Zero Percent Due February Twenty Twenty Two [Member]
Senior Notes Four Point Zero Zero Percent Due February Twenty Twenty Two [Member]
6.90% senior notes due December 2039
Senior Notes Six Point Nine Zero Percent Due December Twenty Thirty Nine [Member]
Senior Notes Six Point Nine Zero Percent Due December Twenty Thirty Nine [Member]
6.45% senior notes due August 2040
Senior Notes Six Point Four Five Percent Due August Twenty Forty [Member]
Senior Notes Six Point Four Five Percent Due August Twenty Forty [Member]
5.50% subordinated notes due September 2052
Subordinated Notes Five Point Five Zero Percent Due September Twenty Fifty Two [Member]
Subordinated Notes Five Point Five Zero Percent Due September Twenty Fifty Two [Member] [Member]
2.26% yen-denominated Uridashi notes due September 2016
Yen Denominated Uridashi Notes Two Point Two Six Percent Due September Twenty Sixteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Uridashi Notes Two Point Two Six Percent due September Twenty Sixteen [Member]
1.47% yen-denominated Samurai notes due July 2014
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes One Point Four Seven Percent Due July Twenty Fourteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes One Point Four Seven Percent due July Twenty Fourteen [Member]
1.84% yen-denominated Samurai notes due July 2016
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes One Point Eight Four Percent Due July Twenty Sixteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes One Point Eight Four Percent due July Twenty Sixteen [Member]
Variable interest rate yen-denominated Samurai notes due July 2014
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes Variable Interest Rate Due July Twenty Fourteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Samurai Notes Variable Interest Rate due July Twenty Fourteen [Member]
3.60% yen-denominated loan due July 2015
Yen Denominated Loan Three Point Six Zero Percent Due July Twenty Fifteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Loan Three Point Six Zero Percent due July Twenty Fifteen [Member]
3.00% yen-denominated loan due August 2015
Yen Denominated Loan Three Point Zero Zero Percent Due August Twenty Fifteen [Member]
Yen Denominated Loan Three Point Zero Zero Percent due August Twenty Fifteen [Member]
Capitalized Lease Obligations
Capital Lease Obligations [Member]
Notes payable
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Credit Rating [Axis]
Credit Rating [Axis]
Credit Rating [Axis]
Type of Credit Rating [Domain]
Type of Credit Rating [Domain]
Type of Credit Rating [Domain]
AA
AA Credit Rating [Member]
AA Credit Rating
A
ACredit Rating [Member]
A Credit Rating [Member]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Derivatives
Asset Derivatives Fair Value
Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Derivative Instruments, Assets
Liability Derivatives Fair Value
Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Derivative Instruments, Liabilities
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]
Available for sale:
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after one year through five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after five years through 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Amortized Cost Basis
Due after 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis
Total fixed maturities available for sale, amortized cost
Held to maturity:
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Net Carrying Amount [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Net Carrying Amount
Due after one year through five years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Net Carrying Amount
Due after five years through 10 years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Net Carrying Amount
Due after 10 years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Net Carrying Amount
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Net Carrying Amount
Total fixed maturities held to maturity, amortized cost
Available for sale:
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value
Due after one year through five years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value
Due after five years through 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value
Due after 10 years
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value
Total fixed maturities available for sale, fair value
Held to maturity:
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Due in one year or less
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value
Due after one year through five years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value
Due after five years through 10 years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value
Due after 10 years
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value
Total fixed maturities held to maturity, fair value
Notes payable, interest rate
Notes payable, principal amount
Summary of Investment Holdings [Table]
Summary of Investment Holdings [Table]
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Summary of Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Amortized Cost
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Amortized Cost
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Amortized Cost
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Fair Value
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Fair Value
Percentage of Total Investment Portfolio, Fair Value
Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table]
Schedule of Credit Derivatives [Table]
BB or Lower
B B Or Lower Credit Rating [Member]
BB or Lower Credit Rating [Member]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Axis]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Axis]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Axis]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Domain]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Domain]
Credit Derivatives by Maturity [Domain]
Less than one year
Within One Year from Balance Sheet Date [Member]
Within One Year from Balance Sheet Date [Member]
One to three years
More than One and within Three Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member]
More than One and within Three Years from Balance Sheet Date
Three to five years
More than Three and within Five Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member]
More than Three and within Five Years from Balance Sheet Date
Five to ten years
More than Five and within Ten Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member]
More than Five and within Ten Years from Balance Sheet Date
Credit Derivatives [Line Items]
Credit Derivatives [Line Items]
Credit Rating
Debt Instrument, Credit Rating
Maximum potential risk
Credit Derivative, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Estimated fair value
Credit Risk Derivatives, at Fair Value, Net
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table]
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table]
Liability Class [Axis]
Liability Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Liability [Member]
Liability [Member]
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Line Items]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Table]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Table]
Debt Security [Axis]
Debt Security [Axis]
Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain]
Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]
Gross Unrealized Gains
Held-to-maturity Securities, Unrecognized Holding Gain
Gross Unrealized Losses
Held-to-maturity Securities, Unrecognized Holding Loss
Fair Value
Schedule of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward
Schedule of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock:
Common Stock [Member]
Additional paid-in capital:
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained earnings:
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Treasury stock:
Treasury Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Exercise of stock options
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised
Share-based compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Net earnings
Dividends to shareholders
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) during period, net of income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities during period, net of income taxes and reclassification adjustments
Other comprehensive income unrealized holding gain loss on securities arising during period net of tax and reclassification adjustments
Other comprehensive income unrealized holding gain loss on securities arising during period net of tax and reclassification adjustments
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period, net of income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Pension liability adjustment during period, net of income taxes
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Purchases of treasury stock
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Treasury stock reissued
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued
Balance, end of period
Common Stock
Treasury Stock
Common Stock Issued [Roll Forward]
Common Stock Issued [Roll Forward]
Common Stock Issued [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Exercise of stock options and issuance of restricted shares
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Balance, end of period
Treasury Stock [Roll Forward]
Treasury Stock Issued [Roll Forward]
Treasury Stock Issued [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of period
Treasury Stock, Shares
Open market
Other
Other Additions During Period Shares
Other additions to number of shares during period.
Shares issued to AFL Stock Plan
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Dividend Reinvestment Plan
Exercise of stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Other
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Other
Balance, end of period
Shares outstanding, end of period
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Other policyholders’ funds
Other Policyholder Funds
Other policyholders' funds fair value disclosure
Other policyholders' funds fair value disclosure
Other policyholders' funds fair value disclosure
Notes Payable
Notes Payable
Notes payable (excluding capital leases), fair value
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure
Obligation To Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation Carrying Value
Obligation To Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation Carrying Value
Obligation To Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation Carrying Value
Obligation to Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation Fair Value Disclosure
Obligation to Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation Fair Value Disclosure
Obligation to Japanese Policyholder Protection Corporation, Fair Value Disclosure.
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value
Total Financial Instrument Liabilities Not Carried At Fair Value
Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Financial Instruments Carried At Cost
Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Financial Instruments Carried At Cost
This element represents liabilities reported on the balance sheet that are carried at cost or amortized cost but for which fair value is disclosed.
Investment Holdings [Table]
Investment Holdings [Table]
Other subordinated - non-banks
Other Subordinated Securities Non Banks [Member]
Other Subordinated Securities Non Banks [Member]
BBB Credit Rating
BBB Credit Rating [Member]
BBB Credit Rating
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Amortized Cost
Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Dollar denominated investment portfolio
Dollar denominated investment portfolio [Member]
Dollar Denominated Investment Portfolio
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2010-26
Accounting Standards Update 2010-26 [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Aflac Japan's percentage of the Company's total revenues
Percentage of Company Revenue
Percentage of Company Revenue.
Percentage of the Company Assets
Percentage of the Company Assets
Percentage of Company Assets.
Valuation allowance increase (decrease) during period related to deferred tax assets associated with unrealized investment losses
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount
Income tax expense (benefit) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Effective income tax rate excluding income tax expense (benefit) related to Aflac Japan's dollar-denominated portfolio
Effective Tax Rate on OCI, Excluding Tax for Portfolio
Effective Tax Rate on OCI, Excluding Tax for Portfolio
Effective income tax rate excluding income tax expense (benefit) related to Aflac Japan's dollar-denominated portfolio and release of valuation allowance
Effective Tax Rate on OCI, Excluding Tax for Portfolio and Release of Valuation Allowance
Effective Tax Rate on OCI, Excluding Tax for Portfolio and Release of Valuation Allowance
Adjustment to shareholders' equity upon adoption of new DAC accounting guidance
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table]
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis]
ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncome [Domain]
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain]
Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Sales and redemptions
Other-than-temporary impairment losses realized
Acquisition and operating expenses
Total before tax
Tax (expense) or benefit
Net of tax
The expected U.S. tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table]
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Assets
Assets
Assets:
Assets [Abstract]
Investments and cash:
Investments and Cash [Abstract]
Securities available for sale, at fair value:
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Fixed maturities
Perpetual securities
Equity securities (cost $18 in 2013 and $20 in 2012)
Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities
Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost:
Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract]
Fixed maturities
Other investments
Other Investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Total investments and cash
Investments and Cash
Receivables
Premiums and Other Receivables, Net
Accrued investment income
Accrued Investment Income Receivable
Deferred policy acquisition costs
Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
Property and equipment, at cost less accumulated depreciation
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other
Other Assets
Total assets
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Liabilities:
Liabilities [Abstract]
Policy liabilities:
Policy liabilities [Abstract]
Policy liabilities [Abstract]
Future policy benefits
Liability for Future Policy Benefits
Unpaid policy claims
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Net
Unearned premiums
Unearned Premiums
Total policy liabilities
Total Policy Liabilities
Total policy liabilities includes future policy benefits, unpaid policy claims, unearned premiums and other policyholders' funds.
Income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Payables for return of cash collateral on loaned securities
Obligation To Return Cash or Securities Received as Collateral
The cash or fair value of collateral received by the entity associated with securities borrowed that must be returned if the counterparty fulfills its obligations. It appears on the balance sheet as a liability and has a corresponding asset on the balance sheet, either cash or securities, depending on which was received as the collateral.
Other
Other Liabilities
Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 11)
Commitments and Contingencies
Total liabilities
Shareholders' equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Common stock of $.10 par value. In thousands: authorized 1,900,000 shares in 2013 and 2012; issued 666,493 shares in 2013 and 665,239 shares in 2012
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Pension liability adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Treasury stock, at average cost
Treasury Stock, Value
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Domain]
Vesting [Domain]
Performance based Vesting Condition
Performance Based Vesting Condition Member
Performance-based Vesting Condition
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Stock Option Plan Effective until February 2007
Stock Option Plan Effective Until February 2007 Member
Stock Option Plan Effective until February 2007
Second Stock Option Plan
Second Stock Option Plan [Member]
Second Stock Option Plan [Member]
Restricted Stock
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of long-term incentive compensation plans
Number of Incentive Compensation Plans
Number of Incentive Compensation Plans
Stock option plan, term (in years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period
Stock option plan, vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Shares available for future grants under the long-term incentive plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options
Total compensation cost not yet recognized, restricted stock awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Total compensation cost not yet recognized, restricted stock awards, shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Total compensation cost not yet recognized, restricted stock awards, weighted-average period (in years)
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on investment securities during period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax
Reclassification adjustment for realized (gains) losses on investment securities included in net earnings
Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Adjustment For Sale And Write Down Of Securities Included In Net Income Before Tax
Pre tax reclassification adjustment for gains or losses realized upon the sale of securities and losses realized upon the write-down of securities.
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives during period
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax
Pension liability adjustment during period
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Total other comprehensive income (loss) before income taxes
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
Total comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
INVESTMENTS
Investment [Text Block]
Offsetting Assets [Table]
Offsetting Assets [Table]
Offsetting assets
Offsetting Assets [Member]
Disclosure of information about derivative and financial assets that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements.
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Gross amount of recognized derivative assets
Gross amount of liabilities offset in balance sheet
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability
Net amount of derivative assets presented in balance sheet
Financial instruments, amount not offset against derivative assets in balance sheet
Financial instruments, amount not offset against derivative assets in balance sheet
Financial instruments, carrying value, amount not offset against derivative assets in balance sheet
Derivative, collateral, obligation to return cash
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash
Derivative asset, fair value, amount offset against collateral
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral
Net amounts of assets presented in balance sheet
REINSURANCE
Reinsurance [Text Block]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
Health care plan, retirement age for eligibility, (in years)
Postretirement Medical Benefits Qualifying Age
Qualifying Age for Postretirement Medical Benefits
Health care plan, number of years of service for eligibility
Postretirement Medical Benefits Number Of Years Of Service For Eligibility
Postretirement Medical Benefits Number Of Years Of Service For Eligibility
Health care plan, retirement age and years of service combined years for eligibility (rule of 80)
Postretirement Medical Benefits Qualifying Age And Service Period Combined
Retirement age and years of service combined years for eligibility for postretirement medical benefits.
Amount of years active employees have left to meet rule of 80 in order to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits
Amount of years left to meet rule of eighty for active employees to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits
The amount of years active employees have left to meet the rule of 80 in order to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits.
Amount of years left to meet fifteen year service requirement for active employees age fifty five or older to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits
Amount of years left to meet fifteen year service requirement for active employees age fifty five or older to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits
Amount of years left to meet 15 year service requirement for active employees age 55 or older to be eligible for postretirement medical benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments
Plan amendment remaining amortization period
Plan amendment remaining amortization period
Plan amendment remaining amortization period
Discount rate - benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Employer contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Non-derivative hedging instruments
Profit repatriation [Axis]
Profit repatriation [Axis]
Profit repatriation [Axis]
Profit repatriation [Domain]
Profit repatriation [Domain]
[Domain] for Profit repatriation [Axis]
Twenty thirteen profit repatriation
Twenty thirteen profit repatriation [Member]
Twenty thirteen profit repatriation [Member]
Twenty fourteen profit repatriation
Twenty fourteen profit repatriation [Member]
Twenty fourteen profit repatriation [Member]
Foreign currency forwards and options
Foreign currency forwards and options [Member]
Foreign currency forwards and options [Member]
Number of currencies related to foreign currency swaps
Number of Currencies
Number of Currencies Related to Foreign Currency Swaps
Number of counterparties
Number of counterparties
Total number of counterparties to derivative contracts.
Number of counterparties that comprise majority of aggregate notional amount of swaps
Number of counterparties that comprise majority of aggregate notional amount of swaps
Number of counterparties that comprise majority of aggregate notional amount of swaps
Percentage of notional amount of swaps from certain number of counterparties
Percentage of notional amount of swaps from certain number of counterparties
Percentage of the notional amount of swaps from certain number of counterparties
Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value
Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value
Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value
Collateral obtained from third parties
Derivative Asset, Fair Value of Collateral
Hedging activity, weighted-average period (in years)
Hedging activity weighted-average period
Hedging activity, weighted average period
Derivative, amount of hedged item
Derivative, Amount of Hedged Item
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Net investment hedge gain loss reclassified to earnings net
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Axis]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Axis]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Axis]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Domain]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Domain]
Treasury Stock Activity By Type [Domain]
Associate stock bonus
Associate Stock Bonus [Member]
Associate Stock Bonus [Member]
Shareholder dividend reinvestment
Shareholder Dividend Reinvestment [Member]
Shareholder Dividend Reinvestment [Member]
Share-based compensation grants
Share Based Compensation Grants [Member]
Share Based Compensation Grants [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Change in receivables and advance premiums
Increase (Decrease) in Receivables
Increase in deferred policy acquisition costs
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs
Increase in policy liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Insurance Liabilities
Change in income tax liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable
Realized investment (gains) losses
Other, net
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from investments sold or matured:
Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments [Abstract]
Securities available for sale:
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Fixed maturities sold
Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities, Debt
Fixed maturities matured or called
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities
Perpetual securities sold
Proceeds from Sale of Available for Sale Perpetual Securities
The cash inflow associated with the sale of perpetual securities classified as available-for-sale securities.
Perpetual securities matured or called
Proceeds from maturities prepayments and calls of available-for-sale perpetual securities
Proceeds from maturities prepayments and calls of available-for-sale perpetual securities
Securities held to maturity:
Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Held-to-maturity Securities [Abstract]
Fixed maturities matured or called
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Held-to-maturity Securities
Costs of investments acquired:
Payments to Acquire Investments [Abstract]
Available for sale fixed maturities acquired
Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities, Debt
Held to maturity fixed maturities acquired
Payments to Acquire Held-to-maturity Securities
Settlement of derivatives
Payments for Hedge, Investing Activities
Cash received as collateral on loaned securities, net
Increase (Decrease) in Collateral Held under Securities Lending
Other, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Purchases of treasury stock
Proceeds from borrowings
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt and Capital Securities, Net
Principal payments under debt obligations
Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities
Dividends paid to shareholders
Payments of Dividends
Change in investment-type contracts, net
Net Change Annuities and Investment Certificates
Treasury stock reissued
Proceeds from Sale of Treasury Stock
Other, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes paid
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Interest paid
Interest Paid
Noncash interest
Other Noncash Expense
Impairment losses included in realized investment losses
Noncash financing activities:
Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract]
Capitalized lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Treasury stock issued for:
Treasury Stock Issued For [Abstract]
Treasury Stock Issued For [Abstract]
Treasury stock issued
Stock Issued
Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount
Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount
Securities loaned total
Securities loaned total
Amount of securities loaned to entities in exchange for collateral, after the effects of master netting arrangements.
Cash collateral on loaned securities
Securities loaned collateral obligation to return cash
Amount of obligation to return cash collateral under master netting arrangements that has not been offset against securities loaned.
Credit Rating [Axis]
External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis]
Credit Rating [Domain]
External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain]
Investment Grade
External Credit Rating, Investment Grade [Member]
Percentage of Total Investments in an Unrealized Loss Position
Percentage Of Total Investments In Unrealized Loss Position
Percentage of Total Investments in Unrealized Loss Position
Percentage of Total Unrealized Losses
Percentage of Total Unrealized Losses
Percentage of Total Unrealized Losses
Percentage of unrealized losses attributable to securities that were investment grade
Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Aggregate Losses Percentage Investment Grade or Below Investment Grade
Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses, Percentage Investment Grade or Below Investment Grade.