10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q 

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2020

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Transition Period From              to             

 _________________________________________

Commission File Number 001-03157

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

New York	13-0872805
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
6400 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee	38197
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (901) 419-7000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Shares	IP	New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ☒    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (paragraph 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes  ☒   No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. 

Large accelerated filer	☒	Accelerated filer	☐
Non-accelerated filer	☐	Smaller reporting company	☐
		Emerging growth company	☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13 (a) of the Exchange

Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes ☐    No  ☒

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, par value $1.00 per share, as of October 23, 2020 was 393,095,466.

INDEX

		PAGE NO.
	PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations - Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 and 2019	1
	Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - Three Months and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 and 2019	2
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet - September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019	3
	Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 and 2019	4
	Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	5
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	27
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	45
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	45
	PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	47
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	47
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	48
Item 6.	Exhibits	49
Signatures		50

ITEM 1.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(Unaudited)

(In millions, except per share amounts) 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net Sales	$	5,123	$	5,568	$	15,341	$	16,878
Costs and Expenses
Cost of products sold	3,541		3,772		10,714		11,602
Selling and administrative expenses	360		387		1,110		1,202
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested	320		327		955		963
Distribution expenses	377		395		1,149		1,168
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes	44		42		129		128
Restructuring and other charges, net	105		21		131		21
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses	(5)		8		347		153
Net (gains) losses on sales of equity method investments	(2)		—		(35)		—
Antitrust fines	—		32		—		32
Interest expense, net	112		123		345		378
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(31)		27
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings	282		452		527		1,204
Income tax provision (benefit)	50		137		211		371
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	(28)		27		13		221
Net Earnings (Loss)	204		342		329		1,054
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	—		(2)		—		(6)
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	$	204	$	344	$	329	$	1,060
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders
Net earnings (loss)	$	0.52	$	0.88	$	0.84	$	2.67
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders
Net earnings (loss)	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.83	$	2.65
Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6		395.4		394.5		399.6

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

1

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(Unaudited)

(In millions)

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net Earnings (Loss)	$	204	$	342	$	329	$	1,054
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax:
Amortization of pension and post-retirement prior service costs and net loss:
U.S. plans	42		41		127		122
Non-U.S. plans	1		—		1		—
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment	(28)		(179)		(515)		(106)
Net gains/losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:
Net gains (losses) arising during the period	(4)		(10)		(34)		(6)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (loss)	6		4		26		5
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	17		(144)		(395)		15
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	221		198		(66)		1,069
Net (earnings) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	—		2		—		6
Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	—		—		2		—
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	$	221	$	200	$	(64)	$	1,075

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

2

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(In millions)

	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
	(unaudited)
Assets
Current Assets
Cash and temporary investments	$	678	$	511
Accounts and notes receivable, net	3,034		3,280
Contract assets	388		393
Inventories	2,007		2,208
Current financial assets of variable interest entities (Note 16)	4,850		—
Assets held for sale	114		—
Other current assets	217		247
Total Current Assets	11,288		6,639
Plants, Properties and Equipment, net	12,410		13,004
Forestlands	288		391
Investments	1,100		1,721
Long-Term Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities (Note 16)	2,252		7,088
Goodwill	3,304		3,347
Right of Use Assets	422		434
Deferred Charges and Other Assets	776		847
Total Assets	$	31,840	$	33,471
Liabilities and Equity
Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	$	179	$	168
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities (Note 16)	4,220		4,220
Accounts payable	2,226		2,423
Accrued payroll and benefits	453		466
Liabilities held for sale	376		—
Other current liabilities	1,022		1,369
Total Current Liabilities	8,476		8,646
Long-Term Debt	8,525		9,597
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities (Note 16)	2,091		2,085
Deferred Income Taxes	2,639		2,633
Pension Benefit Obligation	1,421		1,578
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation	246		270
Long-Term Lease Obligations	290		304
Other Liabilities	1,056		640
Equity
Common stock, $1 par value, 2020 – 448.9 shares and 2019 – 448.9 shares	449		449
Paid-in capital	6,302		6,297
Retained earnings	8,122		8,408
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(5,132)		(4,739)
	9,741		10,415
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2020 – 55.8 shares and 2019 – 56.8 shares	2,648		2,702
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity	7,093		7,713
Noncontrolling interests	3		5
Total Equity	7,096		7,718
Total Liabilities and Equity	$	31,840	$	33,471

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

3

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(Unaudited)

(In millions)

	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019
Operating Activities
Net earnings (loss)	$	329	$	1,054
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested	955		963
Deferred income tax provision (benefit), net	(5)		68
Restructuring and other charges, net	131		21
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses	347		153
Net (gains) losses on sales of equity method investments	(35)		—
Antitrust fines	—		32
Equity method dividends received	158		260
Equity (earnings) losses, net	(13)		(221)
Periodic pension expense, net	24		70
Other, net	212		106
Changes in current assets and liabilities
Accounts and notes receivable	96		168
Contract assets	2		6
Inventories	74		(9)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	—		(11)
Interest payable	(26)		(31)
Other	25		53
Cash Provided By (Used For) Operations	2,274		2,682
Investment Activities
Invested in capital projects, net of insurance recoveries	(657)		(913)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(64)		(99)
Proceeds from sales of equity method investments	500		—
Proceeds from sales of businesses, net of cash divested	—		17
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets	3		15
Other	18		(14)
Cash Provided By (Used For) Investment Activities	(200)		(994)
Financing Activities
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding	(42)		(535)
Issuance of debt	692		381
Reduction of debt	(1,795)		(772)
Change in book overdrafts	16		(29)
Dividends paid	(605)		(595)
Debt tender premiums paid	(124)		—
Other	(1)		3
Cash Provided By (Used For) Financing Activities	(1,859)		(1,547)
Cash Included in Assets Held for Sale	(11)		(19)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash	(37)		(14)
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments	167		108
Cash and Temporary Investments
Beginning of period	511		589
End of period	$	678	$	697

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed financial statements.

4

INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY

(Unaudited)

The accompanying unaudited condensed financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments that are necessary for the fair presentation of International Paper Company’s (International Paper’s, the Company’s or our) financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the interim periods presented. Except as disclosed herein, such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. Results for the first nine months of the year may not necessarily be indicative of full year results. It is suggested that these condensed financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, which have previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

On March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) a global pandemic and recommended containment and mitigation measures worldwide. Most of our manufacturing and converting facilities have remained open and operational during the pandemic. The health and safety of our employees and contractors is our most important responsibility as we manage through the COVID-19 pandemic. We have implemented work-systems across the Company, including hygiene, social distancing, site cleaning, contact tracing, and other measures, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and WHO. Our COVID-19 measures are proving to be effective and we have not had any material disruptions to our operations.

We have seen a significant negative impact on demand for our printing papers products. Demand for our pulp, containerboard and corrugated box products has not been negatively impacted by COVID-19 to date, but could be unfavorably impacted going forward if negative economic conditions associated with COVID-19 persist or deteriorate. Furthermore, if there is a resurgence of the virus leading to additional governmental measures, such as stay-at-home orders or business and school closures, our supply chain, and therefore our production, could be negatively impacted.

There continue to be significant uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including with respect to the various economic reopening plans and the resurgence of the virus in many areas; additional actions that may be taken by governmental authorities and private businesses to attempt to contain the COVID-19 outbreak or to mitigate its impact; the extent and duration of social distancing and stay-at-home orders; the possibility of development of a vaccine; and the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on unemployment, economic activity and consumer confidence. Developments related to COVID-19 are significantly adversely affecting portions of our business, and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, particularly if negative global economic conditions persist for a significant period of time or deteriorate.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments." This guidance replaces the current incurred loss impairment method with a method that reflects expected credit losses. The Company adopted this guidance using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2020. As a result of using this approach, the Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment of $2 million to the opening balance of retained earnings representing the adjustment to our opening allowance for doubtful accounts required to state our trade receivables and contract assets net of their expected credit losses, net of deferred taxes.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

Reference Rate Reform

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting." This guidance provides companies with optional guidance to ease the potential accounting burden associated with transitioning away from reference rates that are expected to be discontinued. This guidance

5

is effective upon issuance and generally can be applied through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.

Income Taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes." This guidance removes certain exceptions from recognizing deferred taxes for investments, performing intraperiod allocation and calculating income taxes in interim periods. It also adds guidance to reduce complexity in certain areas, including recognizing deferred taxes for tax goodwill and allocating taxes to members of a consolidated group. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption of the amendments is permitted, including adoption in any interim period for public business entities for periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued. The Company plans to early adopt the provisions of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2020 and does not expect the impact to be material.

Generally, the Company recognizes revenue on a point-in-time basis when the customer takes title to the goods and assumes the risks and rewards for the goods. For customized goods where the Company has a legally enforceable right to payment for the goods, the Company recognizes revenue over time which, generally, is as the goods are produced.

Disaggregated Revenue

A geographic disaggregation of revenues across our company segmentation in the following tables provides information to assist in evaluating the nature, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows and how they may be impacted by economic factors.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,169	$	479	$	362	$	44	$	4,054
EMEA	394		59		244		(3)		694
Pacific Rim and Asia	15		26		6		10		57
Americas, other than U.S.	190		—		131		(3)		318
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,351	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,351
EMEA Industrial Packaging	306		—		—		—		306
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	52		—		—		—		52
European Coated Paperboard	90		—		—		—		90
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		564		—		—		564
North American Printing Papers	—		—		362		—		362
Brazilian Papers	—		—		150		—		150
European Papers	—		—		232		—		232
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(31)		—		(1)		—		(32)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		48		48
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

6

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,364	$	1,507	$	1,069	$	146	$	12,086
EMEA	1,213		175		765		(11)		2,142
Pacific Rim and Asia	43		55		20		20		138
Americas, other than U.S.	600		—		380		(5)		975
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	9,947	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	9,947
EMEA Industrial Packaging	953		—		—		—		953
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	148		—		—		—		148
European Coated Paperboard	266		—		—		—		266
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,737		—		—		1,737
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,073		—		1,073
Brazilian Papers	—		—		434		—		434
European Papers	—		—		728		—		728
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(94)		—		(1)		—		(95)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		150		150
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,180	$	535	$	486	$	56	$	4,257
EMEA	415		62		315		(1)		791
Pacific Rim and Asia	20		27		47		3		97
Americas, other than U.S.	205		—		223		(5)		423
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,368	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,368
EMEA Industrial Packaging	324		—		—		—		324
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	61		—		—		—		61
European Coated Paperboard	92		—		—		—		92
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		624		—		—		624
North American Printing Papers	—		—		492		—		492
Brazilian Papers	—		—		247		—		247
European Papers	—		—		299		—		299
Indian Papers	—		—		38		—		38
Intra-segment Eliminations	(25)		—		(5)		—		(30)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		53		53
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

7

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,531	$	1,656	$	1,448	$	174	$	12,809
EMEA	1,263		207		986		(8)		2,448
Pacific Rim and Asia	50		111		167		9		337
Americas, other than U.S.	672		—		623		(11)		1,284
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	10,158	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	10,158
EMEA Industrial Packaging	994		—		—		—		994
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	176		—		—		—		176
European Coated Paperboard	275		—		—		—		275
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,974		—		—		1,974
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,474		—		1,474
Brazilian Papers	—		—		702		—		702
European Papers	—		—		929		—		929
Indian Papers	—		—		144		—		144
Intra-segment Eliminations	(87)		—		(25)		—		(112)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		164		164
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

Revenue Contract Balances

A contract asset is created when the Company recognizes revenue on its customized products prior to having an unconditional right to payment from the customer, which generally does not occur until title and risk of loss passes to the customer.

A contract liability is created when customers prepay for goods prior to the Company transferring those goods to the customer. The contract liability is reduced once control of the goods is transferred to the customer. The majority of our customer prepayments are received during the fourth quarter each year for goods that will be transferred to customers over the following twelve months. Contract liabilities of $20 million and $56 million are included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

The difference between the opening and closing balances of the Company's contract assets and contract liabilities primarily results from the difference between the price and quantity at comparable points in time for goods for which we have an unconditional right to payment or receive pre-payment from the customer, respectively.

8

A summary of the changes in equity for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 is provided below:

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,283	$	8,123	$	(5,149)	$	2,649	$	7,057	$	3	$	7,060
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		18		—		—		(2)		20		—		20
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		1		(1)		—		(1)
Common stock dividends ($0.5125 per share)	—		—		(205)		—		—		(205)		—		(205)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		1		—		—		—		1		—		1
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		204		17		—		221		—		221
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,297	$	8,408	$	(4,739)	$	2,702	$	7,713	$	5	$	7,718
Adoption of ASU 2016-13 measurement of credit losses on financial instruments	—		—		(2)		—		—		(2)		—		(2)
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(31)		—		—		(96)		65		—		65
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		42		(42)		—		(42)
Common stock dividends ($1.5375 per share)	—		—		(613)		—		—		(613)		—		(613)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		36		—		—		—		36		—		36
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		329		(393)		—		(64)		(2)		(66)
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,229	$	8,302	$	(4,870)	$	2,628	$	7,482	$	17	$	7,499
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		32		—		—		(1)		33		—		33
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		75		(75)		—		(75)
Common stock dividends ($0.5000 per share)	—		—		(199)		—		—		(199)		—		(199)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		344		(144)		—		200		(2)		198
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

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	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,280	$	7,465	$	(4,500)	$	2,332	$	7,362	$	21	$	7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform	—		—		529		(529)		—		—		—		—
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(52)		—		—		(165)		113		—		113
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		535		(535)		—		(535)
Common stock dividends ($1.5000 per share)	—		—		(607)		—		—		(607)		—		(607)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		33		—		—		—		33		—		33
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		1,060		15		—		1,075		(6)		1,069
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

NOTE 5 - OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	$	(2,192)	$	(2,362)	$	(2,277)	$	(1,916)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(527)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	43		41		128		122
Balance at end of period	(2,149)		(2,321)		(2,149)		(2,321)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	(2,950)		(2,508)		(2,465)		(2,581)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(28)		(179)		(515)		(110)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	—		—		—		4
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	—		—		2		—
Balance at end of period	(2,978)		(2,687)		(2,978)		(2,687)
Net Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedging Derivatives
Balance at beginning of period	(7)		—		3		(3)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(4)		(10)		(34)		(6)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(2)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	6		4		26		5
Balance at end of period	(5)		(6)		(5)		(6)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) at End of Period	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)

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The following table presents details of the reclassifications out of AOCI for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

In millions:	Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income									Location of Amount Reclassified from AOCI
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined benefit pension and postretirement items:
Prior-service costs	$	(5)	$	(4)	$	(15)	$	(10)	(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Actuarial gains (losses)	(52)		(50)		(155)		(152)		(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Total pre-tax amount	(57)		(54)		(170)		(162)
Tax (expense) benefit	14		13		42		40
Net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		(122)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		527			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		405
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments:
Business acquisitions/divestitures	—		—		—		(4)			Cost of products sold
Tax (expense) benefit	—		—		—		—
Net of tax	—		—		—		(4)
Net gains and losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:
Foreign exchange contracts	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)		(b)	Cost of products sold
Total pre-tax amount	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)
Tax (expense)/benefit	2		2		13		2
Net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(5)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		2			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(3)
Total reclassifications for the period	$	(49)	$	(45)	$	(154)	$	398

(a)These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 19 for additional details).

(b)This accumulated other comprehensive income component is included in our derivatives and hedging activities (see Note 18 for additional details).

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed assuming that all potentially dilutive securities were converted into common shares. There are no adjustments required to be made to net income for purposes of computing basic and diluted earnings per share. A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share is as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions, except per share amounts	2020		2019		2020		2019
Earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders	$	204	$	344	$	329	$	1,060
Weighted average common shares outstanding	393.1		392.6		392.9		396.3
Effect of dilutive securities
Restricted performance share plan	1.5		2.8		1.6		3.3
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6		395.4		394.5		399.6
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.88	$	0.84	$	2.67
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.83	$	2.65

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2020: During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the Company recorded a $105 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

During the three months ended June 30, 2020, the Company recorded an $18 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

During the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company recorded an $8 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

2019: During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recorded an $11 million pre-tax charge in Corporate, a $6 million pre-tax charge in the Printing Papers segment and a $4 million pre-tax charge in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment for severance related to an overhead cost reduction initiative. The majority of the severance was paid over the next twelve months.

2020: In May 2020, the Company increased its noncontrolling interest in an entity that produces corrugated sheets. The equity purchase price was $64 million. The Company is party to various agreements with the entity which includes a containerboard supply agreement. The Company will account for its interest as an equity method investment.

2019: On June 28, 2019, the Company closed on the previously announced acquisition of two packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar) and France (Torigni and Cabourg) from DS Smith Packaging. The total purchase consideration, inclusive of working capital adjustments, was approximately €71 million (approximately $81 million at June 30, 2019 exchange rates).

The following table summarizes the final fair value assigned to assets and liabilities acquired as of June 28, 2019:

In millions
Cash and temporary investments	$	2
Accounts and notes receivable	22
Inventory	8
Plants, properties and equipment	37
Goodwill	27
Intangible assets	14
Right of use assets	3
Deferred charges and other assets	2
Total assets acquired	$	115
Short-term debt	$	2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17
Other current liabilities	5
Deferred income taxes	4
Long-term debt	1
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligation	3
Long-term lease obligations	2
Total liabilities assumed	34
Net assets acquired	$	81

Pro forma information has not been included as it is impracticable to obtain the information due to the lack of availability of historical U.S. GAAP financial data. The results of the operations of these businesses do not have a material effect on the Company's condensed consolidated results of operations.

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2020: On March 29, 2020, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement to sell its Brazilian Industrial Packaging business for R$330 million (approximately $58.5 million using the September 30, 2020 exchange rate), with R$280 million to be paid at closing and R$50 million one year thereafter, subject to the final working capital adjustments. This business includes three containerboard mills and four box plants and the agreement follows International Paper's previously announced strategic review of the Brazilian Industrial Packaging business.

In conjunction with the announced agreement, a preliminary pre-tax charge of $347 million ($340 million after taxes) was recorded during the first nine months of 2020. These charges are included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations and is included in the results for the Industrial Packaging segment. Subsequent to September 30, 2020, the transaction closed and final working capital adjustments, if any, will be recognized during the fourth quarter of 2020.

At September 30, 2020, all assets and liabilities related to the Brazilian Industrial Packaging business are classified as current assets held for sale and current liabilities held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

The following summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities of this business reconciled to total Assets held for sale and total Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

In millions	September 30, 2020
Cash and temporary investments	$	11
Accounts and notes receivable	41
Inventories	22
Other current assets	1
Plants, properties and equipment (net of impairment)	28
Deferred charges and other assets	11
Total Assets Held for Sale	$	114
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	36
Deferred income taxes	3
Other liabilities	8
Impairment reserve (cumulative foreign currency translation)	329
Total Liabilities Held for Sale	$	376

2019: On October 30, 2019, the Company closed the previously announced sale of its controlling interest in International Paper APPM Limited (APPM) to West Coast Paper Mills (WCPM). During the second quarter of 2020 the Company sold substantially all of its remaining investment and recorded a gain of $6 million. During the third quarter of 2020 the Company sold its remaining immaterial investment in APPM.

Temporary Investments 

Temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less and money market funds with greater than three month maturities but with the right to redeem without notices are treated as cash equivalents and are stated at cost. Temporary investments totaled $450 million and $335 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

Accounts and Notes Receivable

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Accounts and notes receivable, net:
Trade	$	2,789	$	3,020
Other	245		260
Total	$	3,034	$	3,280

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The allowance for expected credit losses was $86 million at September 30, 2020 and the allowance for doubtful accounts was $73 million at December 31, 2019. Based on the Company's accounting estimates and the facts and circumstances available as of the reporting date, we believe our allowance for expected credit losses is adequate. While we have taken into account certain impacts of COVID-19 in connection with our estimate of the allowance for expected credit losses, it is possible that additional expected credit losses in excess of such allowance could occur if additional containment and mitigation measures are required or negative economic conditions persist or deteriorate as a result of of COVID-19.

Inventories 

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Raw materials	$	257	$	298
Finished pulp, paper and packaging	1,023		1,192
Operating supplies	638		659
Other	89		59
Total	$	2,007	$	2,208

Plants, Properties and Equipment  

Accumulated depreciation was $21.0 billion and $20.5 billion at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Depreciation expense was $300 million and $305 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $902 million for both the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019.

Non-cash additions to plants, property and equipment included within accounts payable were $33 million and $164 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

Amounts invested in capital projects in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of cash flows are presented net of insurance recoveries of $40 million received during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. There were no insurance recoveries received during the nine months ended September 30, 2019.

Interest

Interest payments made during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were $520 million and $591 million, respectively.

Amounts related to interest were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Interest expense	$	148	$	177	$	467	$	538
Interest income	36		54		122		160
Capitalized interest costs	9		7		27		21

Asset Retirement Obligations

The Company had recorded liabilities of $97 million and $96 million related to asset retirement obligations at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

International Paper leases various real estate, including certain operating facilities, warehouses, office space and land. The Company also leases material handling equipment, vehicles, and certain other equipment. The Company's leases have remaining lease terms of one year to 96 years. Total lease cost was $68 million for both the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, and $202 million and $206 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

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Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related to Leases

In millions	Classification	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Assets
Operating lease assets	Right-of-use assets	$	422	$	434
Finance lease assets	Plants, properties and equipment, net (a)	95		103
Total leased assets		$	517	$	537
Liabilities
Current
Operating	Other current liabilities	$	137	$	134
Finance	Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	12		12
Noncurrent
Operating	Long-term lease obligations	290		304
Finance	Long-term debt	83		88
Total lease liabilities		$	522	$	538

(a)Finance leases are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $49 million and $40 million as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

The Company accounts for the following investments in affiliated companies under the equity method of accounting.

Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC

The Company completed the transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business in exchange for an initial 20.5% ownership interest (79,911,511 units) in Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP) in 2018. GPIP subsequently transferred the North American Consumer Packaging business to Graphic Packaging International, LLC (GPI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GPIP that holds the assets of the combined business. On January 29, 2020, the Company exchanged 15,150,784 units of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $33 million ($25 million after taxes) which was recorded in the first quarter of 2020. On August 7, 2020, the Company exchanged 17,399,414 units of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million, resulting in an immaterial gain which was recorded in the third quarter of 2020. As of September 30, 2020, the Company's ownership interest in GPIP was 14.8%. The Company recorded equity earnings of $11 million and $10 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $29 million and $37 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company received cash dividends from GPIP of $16 million and $20 million during the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company's investment in GPIP was $693 million and $1.1 billion at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, which was $347 million and $529 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the entity's underlying net assets. The difference primarily relates to the basis difference between the fair value of our investment and the underlying net assets, and is generally amortized in equity earnings over a period consistent with the underlying long-lived assets. The Company is party to various agreements with GPI under which it sells fiber and other products to GPI. Sales under these agreements were $60 million and $69 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $190 million and $212 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Company continues to evaluate its investment in GPI relative to options available to further monetize this investment.

Summarized financial information for GPIP is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	2,013	$	1,796
Noncurrent assets	5,662		5,482
Current liabilities	1,692		1,178
Noncurrent liabilities	3,617		3,244

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Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	1,698	$	1,581	$	4,908	$	4,640
Gross profit	255		266		838		820
Income from continuing operations	89		83		146		283
Net income	89		83		146		283

Ilim S.A.

The Company has a 50% equity interest in Ilim S.A. (Ilim), which has subsidiaries whose primary operations are in Russia. The Company recorded equity earnings (losses), net of taxes, of $(33) million and $18 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $(5) million and $186 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company received cash dividends from the joint venture of $141 million and $239 million during the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company's investment in Ilim was $322 million and $508 million, respectively, which was $126 million and $136 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the joint venture's underlying net assets. The differences primarily relate to currency translation adjustments and the basis difference between the fair value of our investment at acquisition and the underlying net assets. The Company is party to a joint marketing agreement with JSC Ilim Group, a subsidiary of Ilim, under which the Company purchases, markets and sells paper produced by JSC Ilim Group. Purchases under this agreement were $41 million and $51 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $131 million and $162 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Summarized financial information for Ilim is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	592	$	804
Noncurrent assets	2,442		2,813
Current liabilities	613		1,015
Noncurrent liabilities	2,015		1,844
Noncontrolling interests	13		16

Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	498	$	479	$	1,474	$	1,692
Gross profit	191		196		597		836
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(62)		41		7		388
Net income (loss)	(60)		40		7		375

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Goodwill

The following table presents changes in goodwill balances as allocated to each business segment for the nine-months ended September 30, 2020: 

In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Total
Balance as of January 1, 2020
Goodwill	$	3,410	$	52	$	1,998	$	5,460
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
	3,114		—		233		3,347
Currency translation and other (a)	1		—		(45)		(44)
Goodwill additions/reductions	1		—		—		1
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions	—		—		—		—
Balance as of September 30, 2020
Goodwill	3,412		52		1,953		5,417
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
Total	$	3,116	$	—	$	188	$	3,304

(a)Represents the effects of foreign currency translations.

Other Intangibles

Identifiable intangible assets comprised the following: 

	September 30, 2020						December 31, 2019
In millions	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets
Customer relationships and lists	$	534	$	280	$	254	$	560	$	275	$	285
Tradenames, patents and trademarks, and developed technology	170		113		57		170		102		68
Land and water rights	8		2		6		8		2		6
Software	25		25		—		26		25		1
Other	19		10		9		18		10		8
Total	$	756	$	430	$	326	$	782	$	414	$	368

The Company recognized the following amounts as amortization expense related to intangible assets: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Amortization expense related to intangible assets	$	17	$	15	$	43	$	40

International Paper made income tax payments, net of refunds, of $203 million and $245 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Company currently estimates, that as a result of ongoing discussions, pending tax settlements and expirations of statutes of limitations, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced by approximately $70 million during the next 12 months.

The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service has challenged the deductibility of goodwill amortization generated in a 2007 acquisition by International Paper do Brasil Ltda., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company received

17

assessments for the tax years 2007-2015 totaling approximately $107 million in tax, and $342 million in interest, penalties, and fees as of September 30, 2020 (adjusted for variation in currency exchange rates). After a previous favorable ruling challenging the basis for these assessments, we received other subsequent unfavorable decisions from the Brazilian Administrative Council of Tax Appeals. The Company has appealed and intends to further appeal these and any future unfavorable administrative judgments to the Brazilian federal courts; however, this tax litigation matter may take many years to resolve. The Company believes that it has appropriately evaluated the transaction underlying these assessments, and has concluded based on Brazilian tax law, that its position would be sustained. The Company intends to vigorously defend its position against the current assessments and any similar assessments that may be issued for tax years subsequent to 2015.

On March 27, 2020, the U.S. government enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act ("the CARES Act"). The CARES Act provides various types of economic relief for individuals and businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including temporary corporate tax relief. We currently do not believe there to be a material impact to the income tax provision resulting from the CARES Act.

Environmental

International Paper has been named as a potentially responsible party (PRP) in environmental remediation actions under various federal and state laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Many of these proceedings involve the cleanup of hazardous substances at large commercial landfills that received waste from many different sources. While joint and several liability is authorized under CERCLA and equivalent state laws, as a practical matter, liability for CERCLA cleanups is typically allocated among the many PRPs. There are other remediation costs typically associated with the cleanup of hazardous substances at the Company’s current, closed or formerly-owned facilities, and recorded as liabilities in the balance sheet.

Remediation costs are recorded in the consolidated financial statements when they become probable and reasonably estimable. International Paper has estimated the probable liability associated with these environmental remediation matters, including those described herein, to be approximately $186 million ($195 million undiscounted) in the aggregate as of September 30, 2020. Other than as described below, completion of required remedial actions is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Cass Lake: One of the matters included above arises out of a closed wood-treatment facility located in Cass Lake, Minnesota. In June 2011, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected and published a proposed soil remedy at the site with an estimated cost of $45 million at September 30, 2020. In April 2020, the EPA issued a final plan concerning clean-up standards at a portion of the site, the estimated cost of which is included within the reserve referenced above. In October 2012, the Natural Resource Trustees for this site provided notice to International Paper and other PRPs of their intent to perform a Natural Resource Damage Assessment. It is premature to predict the outcome of the assessment or to estimate a loss or range of loss, if any, in excess of the applicable reserve referenced above, which may be incurred.

Kalamazoo River: The Company is a PRP with respect to the Allied Paper, Inc./Portage Creek/Kalamazoo River Superfund Site in Michigan. The EPA asserts that the site is contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) primarily as a result of discharges from various paper mills located along the Kalamazoo River, including a paper mill (the Allied Paper Mill) formerly owned by St. Regis Paper Company (St. Regis). The Company is a successor in interest to St. Regis.

•Operable Unit 5, Area 1: In March 2016, the Company and other PRPs received a special notice letter from the EPA (i) inviting participation in implementing a remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 1, and (ii) demanding reimbursement of EPA past costs totaling $37 million, including $19 million in past costs previously demanded by the EPA. The Company responded to the special notice letter. In December 2016, the EPA issued a unilateral administrative order to the Company and other PRPs to perform the remedy. The Company responded to the unilateral administrative order, agreeing to comply with the order subject to its sufficient cause defenses.

•Operable Unit 5, Area 2: In September 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision selecting the final remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 2, but has not yet issued a special notice letter for implementing the remedy.

•Operable Unit 1: In October 2016, the Company and another PRP received a special notice letter from the EPA inviting participation in the remedial design component of the landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill, which is also known as Operable Unit 1. The Record of Decision establishing the final landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill was

18

issued by the EPA in September 2016. The Company responded to the Allied Paper Mill special notice letter in December 2016. In February 2017, the EPA informed the Company that it would make other arrangements for the performance of the remedial design.

In addition, in December 2019, the United States published notice in the Federal Register of a proposed consent decree with NCR Corporation (one of the parties to the allocation/apportionment litigation described below), the State of Michigan and natural resource trustees under which NCR would make payments of more than $100 million and perform work at the Site at an estimated cost of $135.7 million. The public comment period with respect to the proposed consent decree closed in February 2020 and we are awaiting the court's final decision.

The Company’s CERCLA liability has not been finally determined with respect to these or any other portions of the site, and except as noted above, the Company has declined to perform any work or reimburse the EPA at this time. As noted below, the Company is involved in allocation/apportionment litigation with regard to the site. Accordingly, it is premature to predict the outcome or estimate our maximum reasonably possible loss or range of loss with respect to this site. We have recorded a liability for future remediation costs at the site that are probable and reasonably estimable, and it remains reasonably possible that additional losses in excess of this recorded liability could be material.

The Company was named as a defendant by Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP, Fort James Corporation and Georgia Pacific LLC in a contribution and cost recovery action for alleged pollution at the site. NCR Corporation and Weyerhaeuser Company are also named as defendants in the suit. The suit seeks contribution under CERCLA for costs purportedly expended by plaintiffs ($79 million as of the filing of the complaint) and for future remediation costs. In June 2018, the Court issued its Final Judgment and Order, which fixed the past cost amount at approximately $50 million (plus interest to be determined) and allocated to the Company a 15% share of responsibility for those past costs. The Court did not address responsibility for future costs in its decision. In July 2018, the Company and each of the other parties filed notices appealing the Final Judgment and prior orders incorporated into that Judgment. The proposed consent decree by NCR described above, if entered, would result in the termination of NCR's involvement in the appeal.

Harris County: International Paper and McGinnis Industrial Maintenance Corporation (MIMC), a subsidiary of Waste Management, Inc. (WMI), are PRPs at the San Jacinto River Waste Pits Superfund Site in Harris County, Texas. The PRPs have been actively participating in the activities at the site and share the costs of these activities.

In October 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision (ROD) selecting the final remedy for the site: removal and relocation of the waste material from both the northern and southern impoundments. The EPA did not specify the methods or practices needed to perform this work. The EPA’s selected remedy was accompanied by a cost estimate of approximately $115 million ($105 million for the northern impoundment, and $10 million for the southern impoundment). Subsequent to the issuance of the ROD, there have been numerous meetings between the EPA and the PRPs, and the Company continues to work with the EPA and MIMC/WMI to develop the remedial design.

To this end, in April 2018, the PRPs entered into an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with the EPA, agreeing to work together to develop the remedial design until April 2021. The AOC does not include any agreement to perform waste removal or other construction activity at the site. Rather, it involves adaptive management techniques and a pre-design investigation, the objectives of which include filling data gaps (including but not limited to post-Hurricane Harvey technical data generated prior to the ROD and not incorporated into the selected remedy), refining areas and volumes of materials to be addressed, determining if an excavation remedy is able to be implemented in a manner protective of human health and the environment, and investigating potential impacts of remediation activities to infrastructure in the vicinity.

During the first quarter of 2020, through a series of meetings among the Company, MIMC/WMI, our consultants, the EPA and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), progress was made to resolve key technical issues previously preventing the Company from determining the manner in which the selected remedy for the northern impoundment would be feasibly implemented. As a result of these developments, as of September 30, 2020, the Company has reserved the following amounts in relation to remediation at this site: (a) $10 million for the southern impoundment; and (b) $55 million for the northern impoundment, which represents the Company's 50% share of our estimate of the low end of the range of probable remediation costs.

Although key technical issues have been resolved, we still face significant challenges remediating the northern impoundment in a cost-efficient manner and without a release to the environment and therefore our discussions with the EPA on the best approach to remediation will continue. Because of ongoing questions regarding cost effectiveness, timing and gathering other technical data, additional losses in excess of our recorded liability are possible. We are currently unable to reasonably estimate

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any further adjustment to our recorded liability or any loss or range of loss in excess of such liability; however, we believe it is unlikely any adjustment would be material.

Asbestos-Related Matters

We have been named as a defendant in various asbestos-related personal injury litigation, in both state and federal court, primarily in relation to the prior operations of certain companies previously acquired by the Company. The Company regularly conducts a comprehensive legal review of its asbestos liabilities and reviews recent and historical claims data. During the second quarter of 2020, as previously disclosed, we adjusted our estimated net liability associated with asbestos-related litigation concerning products sold by Champion International Corporation prior to our acquisition of Champion in 2000 to revise the time period associated with anticipated future claims through 2059, a commonly viewed end point when such claims are more predictable. We concluded the adjustment of $43 million to increase this net liability, which resulted in a liability of $75 million, net of estimated insurance recoveries, was not material to any period. As of September 30, 2020, the Company's total recorded liability with respect to pending and future asbestos-related claims was $117 million, net of estimated insurance recoveries. While it is reasonably possible that the Company may incur losses in excess of its recorded liability with respect to asbestos-related matters, we do not believe additional material losses are probable.

Antitrust

Italy: In March 2017, the Italian Competition Authority (ICA) commenced an investigation into the Italian packaging industry to determine whether producers of corrugated sheets and boxes violated the applicable European competition law. In April 2019, the ICA concluded its investigation and issued initial findings alleging that over 30 producers, including our Italian packaging subsidiary (IP Italy), improperly coordinated the production and sale of corrugated sheets and boxes. On August 6, 2019, the ICA issued its decision and assessed IP Italy a fine of €29 million (approximately $32 million at current exchange rates) which was recorded in the third quarter of 2019. However, we are vigorously appealing this decision of the ICA to the Italian courts and have numerous and strong bases for our appeal.

Contract

Signature: In August 2014, a lawsuit captioned Signature Industrial Services LLC et al. v. International Paper Company was filed in state court in Texas. The Signature lawsuit arises out of approximately $1 million in disputed invoices related to the installation of new equipment at the Company's Orange, Texas mill. In addition to the invoices in dispute, Signature and its president allege consequential damages arising from the Company's nonpayment of those invoices. The lawsuit was tried before a jury in Beaumont, Texas, in May 2017. On June 1, 2017, the jury returned a verdict awarding approximately $125 million in damages to the plaintiffs. The Court issued a judgment on December 14, 2017, awarding the plaintiffs a total of approximately $137 million in actual and consequential damages, fees, costs and pre-judgment interest, and awarding post-judgment interest. The Company appealed this judgment and, on April 30, 2020, the Court of Appeals for the Thirteenth District of Texas issued a decision affirming in part and reversing and rendering judgment in favor of the Company in part. The Court affirmed approximately $14.8 million of the judgment. Otherwise, the Court rendered judgment in favor of the Company on the remainder of the jury’s verdict. The Company continues to have strong bases by which to challenge the affirmed portions of the award and has presented those arguments on appeal to the Supreme Court of Texas. The plaintiffs have also appealed the decision of the appellate court. We do not expect that potential losses, if any, related to this lawsuit will be material.

Taxes Other Than Payroll Taxes

In 2017, the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court decided that the state value-added tax (VAT) should not be included in the basis of federal VAT calculations. In 2018 and 2019, the Brazilian tax authorities published both an internal consultation and a normative ruling with a narrow interpretation of the effects of the case. We have determined that any related federal VAT refunds should be recognized when they are both probable and reasonably estimable. Based upon the best information available to us, we have determined that the amount of refund that is probable of being realized is limited to that determined by the tax authorities' narrow interpretation, for which we have recognized a receivable of $11 million as of September 30, 2020. It is possible that future court decisions and guidance from the tax authorities could expand the scope of the federal VAT refunds.

General

The Company is involved in various other inquiries, administrative proceedings and litigation relating to environmental and safety matters, personal injury, product liability, labor and employment, contracts, sales of property, intellectual property, tax, and other matters, some of which allege substantial monetary damages. See Note 14 for details regarding a tax matter. Assessments of lawsuits and claims can involve a series of complex judgments about future events, can rely heavily on

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estimates and assumptions, and are otherwise subject to significant uncertainties. As a result, there can be no certainty that the Company will not ultimately incur charges in excess of presently recorded liabilities. The Company believes that loss contingencies arising from pending matters including the matters described herein, will not have a material effect on the consolidated financial position or liquidity of the Company. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in pending or threatened legal matters, some of which are beyond the Company's control, and the large or indeterminate damages sought in some of these matters, a future adverse ruling, settlement, unfavorable development, or increase in accruals with respect to these matters could result in future charges that could be material to the Company's results of operations or cash flows in any particular reporting period.

Variable Interest Entities

As of September 30, 2020, the fair value of the Timber Notes and Extension Loans was $4.92 billion and $4.24 billion, respectively, for the 2015 Financing Entities. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

The Timber Notes of $4.85 billion mature in August 2021. The Extension Loans of $4.22 billion mature in November and December of 2020, and we are currently negotiating the extension of these third-party loans to August 2021 and expect to complete the extension before the maturity dates. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are shown in Current nonrecourse financial assets of variable interest entities and Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities, respectively, on the accompanying balance sheet.

Failure to extend these third-party loans to August 2021 prior to their respective maturity dates in November and December of 2020 could necessitate a disposition of the installment notes to facilitate the $4.22 billion debt payment. We are confident we would be able to dispose of the installment notes, if necessary.

Activity between the Company and the 2015 Financing Entities was as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	24	$	24	$	71	$	71
Expense (a)	32		32		96		96
Cash receipts (b)	48		48		95		95
Cash payments (c)	64		64		128		128

(a)The revenue and expense are included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations.

(b)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash payments represent interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

As of September 30, 2020, the fair value of the Timber Notes and Extension Loans was $2.29 billion and $2.12 billion, respectively, for the 2007 Financing Entities. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Activity between the Company and the 2007 Financing Entities was as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	7	$	19	$	35	$	61
Expense (b)	8		19		36		60
Cash receipts (c)	5		16		28		48
Cash payments (d)	8		17		34		53

(a)The revenue is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $5 million and $14 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion income for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

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(b)The expense is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $2 million and $5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion expense for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(d)The cash payments are interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

The borrowing capacity of the Company's commercial paper program is $1.0 billion. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but not exceed one year from the date of issue. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed or floating rate notes. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had $140 million of borrowings outstanding under the program at weighted-average interest rate of 0.17%.

In March 2020, the Company entered into a $750 million contractually committed 364-day revolving credit agreement with a syndicate of banks and other financial institutions which augments the Company's access to liquidity due to current macroeconomic conditions and supplements the Company's $1.5 billion five-year credit agreement. In October 2020, the company extended the expiration date of the $1.5 billion credit agreement from December 2021 to December 2022. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under either the $750 million revolving credit agreement or the $1.5 billion credit agreement.

In April 2020, the Company's receivable securitization program was amended from an uncommitted financing arrangement to a committed financing arrangement with a borrowing limit up to $550 million based on eligible receivable balances that expires in April 2022. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under the program.

In July 2020, International Paper refinanced $122 million of industrial development bonds that now have interest rates ranging from 1.38% to 1.60% and maturity dates in 2025.

As a result of a debt tender offer in September 2020, the Company economically retired $700 million of corporate bonds with interest rates ranging from 3.00% to 3.80% and maturity dates ranging from 2024 to 2027. This is in addition to the August 2020 economical debt extinguishment of $203 million of corporate bonds with an interest rate of 7.50% due in 2021 and brings the full year-to-date debt reductions related to the 2021 bonds to $406 million.

The Company’s financial covenants require the maintenance of a minimum net worth, as defined in our debt agreements, of $9 billion and a total debt-to-capital ratio of less than 60%. Net worth is defined as the sum of common stock, paid-in capital and retained earnings, less treasury stock plus any cumulative goodwill impairment charges. The calculation also excludes accumulated other comprehensive income/loss and both the current and long-term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities. The total debt-to-capital ratio is defined as total debt divided by the sum of total debt plus net worth. As of September 30, 2020, we were in compliance with our debt covenants.

At September 30, 2020, the fair value of International Paper’s $8.7 billion of debt was approximately $10.7 billion. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues. International Paper’s long-term debt is classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

As a multinational company International Paper is exposed to market risks, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates and commodity prices.

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The notional amounts of qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	245	$	407
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		700
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		475
Foreign exchange contracts	50		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	12		16
Foreign exchange contracts	—		7

During the first quarter of 2020, International Paper terminated its interest rate contracts in fair value hedging relationships. These contracts had a notional value of $700 million and an approximate fair value of $85 million at the time of termination. Subsequent to the termination of the interest rate swaps, the fair value basis adjustment is accounted for as a debt premium for the previously hedged debt. During the first and second quarter of 2020, International Paper also terminated interest rate contracts in net investment hedging relationships with a notional value of $475 million. These contracts had an approximate fair value of $33 million at the time of termination. Subsequent to the termination of the net investment hedges, the fair value is accounted for in other comprehensive income as cumulative translation adjustment for the previously hedged net investments.

The following table shows gains or losses recognized in AOCI, net of tax, related to derivative instruments: 

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Total	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15
Total	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15

During the next 12 months, the amount of the September 30, 2020 AOCI balance, after tax, that is expected to be reclassified to earnings is a loss of $4 million.

The amounts of gains and losses recognized in the statement of operations on qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

	Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)								Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)	Cost of products sold
Total	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)

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	Gain (Loss) Recognized								Location of Gain (Loss) In  Statement of Operations
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	11	$	38	$	42	Interest expense, net
Debt	—		(11)		(38)		(42)		Interest expense, net
Total	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—	Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses
Total	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	$	1	$	(5)	$	(2)	$	—	Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange contracts	—		(1)		—		(2)		Cost of products sold
Total	$	1	$	(6)	$	(2)	$	(2)

Fair Value Measurements

The Company has not changed its valuation techniques for measuring the fair value of any financial assets or liabilities during the year. Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the end of the reporting period.

The following table provides a summary of the impact of our derivative instruments in the balance sheet:

Fair Value Measurements

Level 2 – Significant Other Observable Inputs

	Assets						Liabilities
In millions	September 30, 2020			December 31, 2019			September 30, 2020			December 31, 2019
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts – cash flow	$	2		$	10		$	16		$	4
Interest rate contracts - net investment	—			11			—			—
Interest rate contracts - fair value	—			47			—			—
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	2			68			16			4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Electricity contract	—			—			—			2
Foreign exchange contracts	—			—			—			1
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	—			—			—			3
Total derivatives	$	2	(a)	$	68	(b)	$	16	(c)	$	7	(d)

(a)Included in Other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(b)Includes $14 million recorded in Other current assets and $54 million recorded in Deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(c)Includes $14 million recorded in Other current liabilities and $2 million recorded in Other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(d)Included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

The above contracts are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that provide rights of offset with each counterparty when amounts are payable on the same date in the same currency or in the case of certain specified defaults. Management has made an accounting policy election to not offset the fair value of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities in the

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balance sheet. The amounts owed to the counterparties and owed to the Company are considered immaterial with respect to each counterparty and in the aggregate with all counterparties.

International Paper sponsors and maintains the Retirement Plan of International Paper Company (the Pension Plan), a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan that provides retirement benefits to substantially all U.S. salaried and hourly and union employees who work at a participating business unit.

The Pension Plan provides defined pension benefits based on years of credited service and either final average earnings (salaried employees and hourly employees receiving salaried benefits), hourly job rates or specified benefit rates (hourly and union employees).

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company froze participation, including credited service and compensation, for salaried employees under the Pension Plan, the Pension Restoration Plan and the SERP plan. This change does not affect benefits accrued through December 31, 2018. For service after December 31, 2018, employees affected by the freeze receive a company contribution to their individual Retirement Savings Account.

Net periodic pension expense for our qualified and nonqualified U.S. defined benefit plans comprised the following: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Service cost	$	21	$	17	$	64	$	51
Interest cost	98		110		294		330
Expected return on plan assets	(167)		(158)		(501)		(473)
Actuarial loss	51		50		152		150
Amortization of prior service cost	5		4		15		12
Net periodic pension expense	$	8	$	23	$	24	$	70

The components of net periodic pension expense other than the Service cost component are included in Non-operating pension expense in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The Company’s funding policy for our pension plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet legal funding requirements, plus any additional amounts that the Company may determine to be appropriate considering the funded status of the plan, tax deductibility, the cash flows generated by the Company, and other factors. The Company made no voluntary cash contributions to the qualified pension plan in the first nine months of 2020 or 2019. The nonqualified defined benefit plans are funded to the extent of benefit payments, which totaled $22 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

International Paper has an Incentive Compensation Plan (ICP) which is administered by the Management Development and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the Committee). The ICP authorizes the grants of restricted stock, restricted or deferred stock units, performance awards payable in cash or stock upon the attainment of specified performance goals, dividend equivalents, stock options, stock appreciation rights, other stock-based awards and cash-based awards at the discretion of the Committee. As of September 30, 2020, 8.4 million shares were available for grant under the ICP.

Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Total stock-based compensation expense (selling and administrative)	$	17	$	31	$	48	$	94
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation	1		(2)		18		31

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At September 30, 2020, $85 million, net of estimated forfeitures, of compensation cost related to unvested restricted performance shares, executive continuity awards and restricted stock attributable to future service had not yet been recognized. This amount will be recognized in expense over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.

Performance Share Plan

During the first nine months of 2020, the Company granted 2.2 million performance units at an average grant date fair value of $49.15.

International Paper’s business segments, Industrial Packaging, Global Cellulose Fibers and Printing Papers, are consistent with the internal structure used to manage these businesses. All segments are differentiated on a common product, common customer basis consistent with the business segmentation generally used in the Forest Products industry.

Business segment operating profits are used by International Paper's management to measure the earnings performance of its businesses. Management believes that this measure allows a better understanding of trends in costs, operating efficiencies, prices and volumes. Business segment operating profits are defined as earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings, but including the impact of noncontrolling interests, excluding interest expense, net, corporate items, net, corporate net special items, business net special items and non-operating pension expense. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company changed its measure of business segment operating profits to exclude items considered by management to be unusual (business net special items) from the normal operations of the business segment. As a result, all prior periods have been restated to reflect the current measure.

Net sales by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	3,768	$	3,820	$	11,220	$	11,516
Global Cellulose Fibers	564		624		1,737		1,974
Printing Papers	743		1,071		2,234		3,224
Corporate and Intersegment Sales	48		53		150		164
Net Sales	$	5,123	$	5,568	$	15,341	$	16,878

Operating profit (loss) by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	469	$	535	$	1,388	$	1,471
Global Cellulose Fibers	(59)		4		(123)		39
Printing Papers	63		162		148		420
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings	$	282	$	452	$	527	$	1,204
Interest expense, net	112		123		345		378
Noncontrolling interests adjustment	—		2		—		4
Corporate expenses, net	(20)		21		9		45
Corporate net special items	108		48		195		48
Business net special items	2		46		368		224
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(31)		27
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930

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ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included in "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this "Form 10-Q") and the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (our "Annual Report"). In addition to historical consolidated financial information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates, and beliefs that involve significant risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to those differences include those discussed below and in our Annual Report, particularly in "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements" of this Form 10-Q and our Annual Report.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper common shareholders were $204 million ($0.52 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020, compared with $266 million ($0.67 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2020 and $344 million ($0.87 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2019. International Paper generated Adjusted Operating Earnings Attributable to International Paper Common Shareholders (a non-GAAP measure defined below) of $280 million ($0.71 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020, compared with $305 million ($0.77 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2020 and $431 million ($1.09 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2019.

In the third quarter 2020, International Paper delivered solid earnings and generated robust cash from operations in a dynamic environment. We continued to deliver strong commercial and operational performance, with outstanding cost management across all our businesses. In the third quarter 2020, we generated $735 million in cash from operations and $616 million in free cash flow, bringing cash generated from operations and free cash flow to $2.3 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively, through the first three quarters of 2020. The Company’s solid performance reinforces our financial strength and commitment to our capital allocation framework. We continued to use cash consistent with our capital allocation framework to maintain a strong balance sheet, return cash to shareowners and invest to create value. During the third quarter, we reduced debt by $760 million, bringing year-to-date debt reduction to $1.1 billion. In October, the board of directors approved the fourth quarter dividend, bringing the full-year authorizations to $800 million.

Relative to demand, recovery trends continue to vary by business and end-use consumer segments. Demand for corrugated packaging accelerated in the third quarter and that momentum continues in the fourth quarter. In our Global Cellulose Fibers business, we experienced seasonally lower demand and destocking across most regions, as expected. In our Printing Papers business, we are in the early stages of recovery as office and school activities restart. Against this backdrop, our commercial, supply chain and manufacturing organizations are collaborating at a high level to ensure we meet our customers’ changing needs, leveraging the scale and flexibility of our system and optimizing costs. We remain committed to our COVID-19 principles and will continue to focus on what we need to do to further strengthen the Company for all our stakeholders in the short-term and the long-term.

Comparing performance in the third quarter 2020 to the second quarter 2020, price and mix was essentially flat across our businesses. Volume was favorable, driven by strong demand for corrugated packaging in North America and improved demand for printing papers across all regions. Operations and costs benefited from improved fixed cost absorption on higher volume. Our businesses continued to do an excellent job managing costs and delivered strong operational performance to mitigate the impact of hurricanes in the third quarter. Third quarter performance also benefited from about $30 million of one-time items, which favorably impacted operations and costs. As expected, maintenance outage costs reduced earnings in the third quarter, which is our highest planned maintenance quarter this year. Input costs were favorable, mostly due to lower recovered fiber costs. We did experience higher energy and distribution costs as we exited the third quarter, which we see as a positive sign of an improving economy. Corporate expense and taxes were favorable compared to the second quarter 2020, reflecting foreign currency translation gains and favorable adjustments to our federal tax provision after finalizing our 2019 tax return. Equity earnings from our Ilim joint venture were a loss of $33 million and include a $55 million non-cash foreign exchange loss primarily associated with foreign currency translation on Ilim’s US dollar denominated net debt.

Looking ahead to the fourth quarter 2020, as compared to the third quarter of 2020, in our Industrial Packaging business, we expect stable price and mix in our North America and European Packaging businesses. Volume is expected to decrease modestly, with continued strong demand for corrugated packaging offsetting the impact of three less days in the fourth quarter. Operations and costs are expected to be negatively impacted by the non-repeat of favorable one-time items in the third quarter. Planned maintenance outage expense is expected to be lower, and input costs are expected to be higher, mostly due to higher energy and transportation costs. In our Global Cellulose Fibers business, we expect price and mix to be modestly lower in the fourth quarter. Volume is expected to be stable while operations and costs are expected to negatively impact earnings associated

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with the non-repeat of favorable one-time items. We expect increased planned maintenance outage expenses, and input costs are expected to be stable. In our Printing Papers business, we expect price and mix to be stable. Volume is expected to improve on higher seasonal demand in Latin America. Operations and costs are expected to be negatively impacted by the non-repeat of favorable one-time items in the third quarter, along with higher seasonal energy costs. Planned maintenance outage expenses are expected to decrease, and input costs are expected to increase on higher wood and energy costs. Lastly, in our Ilim joint venture, we expect improved earnings on the non-repeat of the foreign currency loss on U.S. dollar denominated net debt incurred in the third quarter.

On March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization declared the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) a global pandemic and recommended containment and mitigation measures worldwide. Most of our manufacturing and converting facilities have remained open and operational during the pandemic. The health and safety of our employees and contractors is our most important responsibility as we manage through the COVID-19 pandemic. We have implemented work-systems across the Company, including hygiene, social distancing, site cleaning, contact tracing, and other measures, as recommended by the CDC and WHO. Our COVID-19 measures are proving to be effective and we have not had any material disruptions to our operations.

We have seen a significant negative impact on demand for our printing papers products. Demand for our pulp, containerboard and corrugated box products has not been negatively impacted by COVID-19 to date, but could be unfavorably impacted going forward if negative economic conditions associated with COVID-19 persist or deteriorate. Furthermore, if there is a resurgence of the virus leading to additional governmental measures, such as stay-at-home orders or business and school shut downs, our supply chain, and therefore our production, could be negatively impacted.

There continue to be significant uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including with respect to the various economic reopening plans and the resurgence of the virus in many areas; additional actions that may be taken by governmental authorities and private businesses to attempt to contain the COVID-19 outbreak or to mitigate its impact; the extent and duration of social distancing and stay-at-home orders; the possibility of development of a vaccine; and the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on unemployment, economic activity and consumer confidence. Developments related to COVID-19 are significantly adversely affecting portions of our business, and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, particularly if negative global economic conditions persist for a significant period of time or deteriorate.

Adjusted Operating Earnings and Adjusted Operating Earnings Per Share are non-GAAP measures and are defined as net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper (a GAAP measure) excluding net special items and non-operating pension expense (income). Net earnings (loss) and Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders are the most directly comparable GAAP measures. The Company calculates Adjusted Operating Earnings by excluding the after-tax effect of non-operating pension expense (income) and items considered by management to be unusual (net special items) from the earnings reported under GAAP. Adjusted Operating Earnings Per Share is calculated by dividing Adjusted Operating Earnings by diluted average shares of common stock outstanding. Management uses this measure to focus on on-going operations, and believes that it is useful to investors because it enables them to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present consolidated operating results. The Company believes that using this information, along with the most directly comparable GAAP measure, provides for a more complete analysis of the results of operations.

The following are reconciliations of Earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders to Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) attributable to shareholders.

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Three Months Ended June 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to Shareholders	$	204	$	344	$	266
Add Back - Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(14)
Add Back - Net special items expense (income)	109		94		68
Income tax effect - Non-operating pension and net special items expense	(22)		(16)		(15)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	$	280	$	431	$	305

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	Three Months Ended September 30,				Three Months Ended June 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.67
Add Back - Non-operating pension expense (income) per share	(0.03)		0.02		(0.04)
Add Back - Net special items expense (income) per share	0.28		0.24		0.17
Income tax effect per share - Non-operating pension and net special items expense	(0.06)		(0.04)		(0.03)
Adjusted Operating Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Shareholders	$	0.71	$	1.09	$	0.77

Cash provided by operations totaled $2.3 billion and $2.7 billion for the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company generated free cash flow of approximately $1.6 billion and $1.8 billion in the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure and the most directly comparable GAAP measure is cash provided by operations. Management utilizes this measure in connection with managing our business and believes that free cash flow is useful to investors as a liquidity measure because it measures the amount of cash generated that is available, after reinvesting in the business, to maintain a strong balance sheet, pay dividends, repurchase stock, service debt and make investments for future growth. It should not be inferred that the entire free cash flow amount is available for discretionary expenditures. By adjusting for certain items that are not indicative of the Company's ongoing performance, we believe that free cash flow also enables investors to perform meaningful comparisons between past and present periods.

The following is a reconciliation of cash provided by operations to free cash flow: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Cash provided by operations	$	735	$	882	$	2,274	$	2,682
Adjustments:
Cash invested in capital projects, net of insurance recoveries	(119)		(285)		(657)		(913)
Free Cash Flow	$	616	$	597	$	1,617	$	1,769

The non-GAAP financial measures presented in this Quarter Report on Form 10-Q as referenced above have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for an analysis of our results calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because not all companies utilize identical calculations, the Company's presentation of non-GAAP measures in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q may not be comparable to similarly titled measures disclosed by other companies, including companies in the same industry as the Company.

For the third quarter of 2020, International Paper Company reported net sales of $5.1 billion, compared with $4.9 billion in the second quarter of 2020 and $5.6 billion in the third quarter of 2019.

Net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper totaled $204 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2020. This compared with $266 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2020 and $344 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2019.

29

Compared with the second quarter of 2020, earnings benefited from higher sales volumes ($50 million), lower operating costs ($23 million), lower raw material and freight costs ($25 million), lower corporate and other items ($13 million), lower net interest expense ($2 million) and lower tax expense ($28 million). These benefits were offset by lower average sales prices net of a favorable mix ($9 million), higher mill maintenance outage costs ($57 million) and higher non-operating pension expense ($4 million). Equity earnings, net of taxes, relating to International Paper’s investments in Ilim S.A., Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC, and other investments were $100 million lower than in the second quarter of 2020. Net special items in the third quarter of 2020 were a loss of $83 million compared with a loss of $50 million in the second quarter of 2020.

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Compared with the third quarter of 2019, the third quarter of 2020 reflects lower raw material and freight costs ($29 million), lower corporate and other costs ($30 million), lower net interest expense ($7 million), lower tax expense ($34 million) and lower non-operating pension expense ($14 million). These benefits were offset by lower average sales prices and an unfavorable mix ($114 million), lower sales volumes ($28 million), higher operating costs ($7 million) and higher mill maintenance outage costs ($47 million). Equity earnings, net of taxes, relating to International Paper’s investments in Ilim S.A., Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC, and other investments were $55 million lower in the third quarter of 2020 than in the third quarter of 2019. Net special items in the third quarter of 2020 were a loss of $83 million compared with a loss of $80 million in the third quarter of 2019.

Business Segment Operating Profits are used by International Paper's management to measure the earnings performance of its businesses. Management uses this measure to focus on on-going operations, and believes that it is useful to investors because it enables them to perform meaningful comparisons of past and present operating results. International Paper believes that using this information, along with net earnings, provides a more complete analysis of the results of operations by quarter. Business Segment Operating Profits are defined as earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings, but including the impact of noncontrolling interests, and excluding interest expense, net, corporate expenses, net, corporate net special items, business net special items and non-operating pension expense. Business Segment Operating Profits is a measure reported to our management for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to our business segments and assessing the performance of our business segments and is presented in our financial statement footnotes in accordance with ASC 280.

International Paper operates in three segments: Industrial Packaging, Global Cellulose Fibers and Printing Papers.

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The following table presents a reconciliation of net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to International Paper Company to its Total Business Segment Operating Profit: 

	Three Months Ended
	September 30,				June 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	$	204	$	344	$	266
Add back (deduct):
Income tax provision (benefit)	50		137		67
Equity (earnings) loss, net of taxes	28		(27)		(72)
Noncontrolling interests, net of taxes	—		(2)		—
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings	282		452		261
Interest expense, net	112		123		116
Noncontrolling interests included in operations	—		2		—
Corporate expenses, net	(20)		21		(3)
Corporate net special items	108		48		54
Business net special items	2		46		14
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(14)
Adjusted Operating Profit	$	473	$	701	$	428
Business Segment Operating Profit (Loss):
Industrial Packaging	$	469	$	535	$	449
Global Cellulose Fibers	(59)		4		(10)
Printing Papers	63		162		(11)
Total Business Segment Operating Profit	$	473	$	701	$	428

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Business Segment Operating Profit

Total business segment operating profits were $473 million in the third quarter of 2020, $428 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $701 million in the third quarter of 2019.

Compared with the second quarter of 2020, operating profits benefited from higher sales volumes ($68 million), lower operating costs ($31 million) and lower raw material and freight costs ($34 million). These benefits were offset by lower average sales prices net of a favorable mix ($11 million) and higher mill outage costs ($77 million).

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Compared with the third quarter of 2019, operating profits in the current quarter benefited from lower raw material and freight costs ($40 million). These benefits were offset by lower average sales prices and an unfavorable mix ($156 million), lower sales volumes ($38 million), higher operating costs ($9 million) and higher mill outage costs ($65 million).

Economic-related downtime results from the amount of production required to meet our customer demand. Planned maintenance downtime is taken periodically throughout the year. The following table details North American planned maintenance and economic-related downtime:

In thousands of tons	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019	Three Months Ended June 30, 2020
Economic-related downtime	126	283	328
Maintenance downtime	170	125	51

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Sales Volumes by Product (a)

Sales volumes of major products for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,		Nine Months Ended September 30,
In thousands of short tons (except as noted)	2020	2019	2020	2019
Industrial Packaging
Corrugated Packaging (b)	2,705	2,651	7,900	7,810
Containerboard	760	736	2,370	2,140
Recycling	460	556	1,388	1,790
Saturated Kraft	36	47	123	140
Gypsum/Release Kraft	50	49	154	149
Bleached Kraft	7	5	22	17
EMEA Packaging (b)	374	375	1,190	1,124
Brazilian Packaging (b)	98	96	271	272
European Coated Paperboard	102	106	308	312
Industrial Packaging	4,592	4,621	13,726	13,754
Global Cellulose Fibers (in thousands of metric tons) (c)	886	878	2,752	2,606
Printing Papers
U.S. Uncoated Papers	336	451	998	1,340
European and Russian Uncoated Papers	298	352	929	1,073
Brazilian Uncoated Papers	208	301	598	828
Indian Uncoated Papers	—	49	—	183
Printing Papers	842	1,153	2,525	3,424

(a)Sales volumes include third party and inter-segment sales and exclude sales of equity investees.

(b)Volumes for corrugated box sales reflect consumed tons sold (CTS). Board sales for these businesses reflect invoiced tons.

(c)Includes North American, European and Brazilian volumes and internal sales to mills.

Income Taxes

An income tax provision of $50 million was recorded for the third quarter of 2020 and the reported effective income tax rate was 18%. Excluding a benefit of $26 million related to the tax effects of net special items and expense of $4 million related to the tax effects of non-operating pension expense, the effective income tax rate was 19% for the quarter.

An income tax provision of $67 million was recorded for the second quarter of 2020 and the reported effective income tax rate was 26%. Excluding a benefit of $18 million related to the tax effects of net special items and expense of $3 million related to the tax effects of non-operating pension expense, the effective income tax rate was 26% for the quarter.

An income tax provision of $137 million was recorded for the third quarter of 2019 and the reported effective income tax rate was 30%. Excluding a benefit of $14 million related to the tax effects of net special items and a benefit of $2 million related to the tax effects of non-operating pension expense, the effective income tax rate was 27% for the quarter.

Interest Expense

Net interest expense was $112 million in the third quarter of 2020, compared with $116 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $123 million in the third quarter of 2019.

35

Effects of Net Special Items and Non-Operating Pension Expense

Details of net special items and non-operating pension expense (income) for the three months and nine months ended are as follows:

	Three Months Ended
	September 30,										June 30,
	2020					2019					2020
In millions	Before Tax		After Tax			Before Tax		After Tax			Before Tax		After Tax
Business Segments
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment	$	7	$	6	(a)	$	—	$	—		$	—	$	—
Brazil Packaging impairment	(4)		(2)		(b)	—		—			9		7		(b)
Abandoned property removal	—		—			13		10		(d)	5		4		(d)
Italian antitrust fine	—		—			32		32		(b)	—		—
Overhead cost reduction initiative	—		—			10		8		(e)	—		—
India Papers impairment	—		—			6		6		(a)	—		—
Riverdale mill conversion	—		—			1		1		(a)	—		—
Gain on sale of previously closed Oregon mill site	—		—			(9)		(7)		(b)	—		—
Multi-employer pension plan exit liability	—		—			(7)		(6)		(b)	—		—
Other	(1)		(1)		(c)	—		—			—		—
Business Segments Total	2		3			46		44			14		11
Corporate
Debt extinguishment costs	105		79			—		—			18		13
Asbestos litigation reserve adjustment	—		—			—		—			43		33
Gain on sale of portion of investment in India	—		—			—		—			(6)		(6)
Litigation reserves	—		—			22		17			—		—
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment	—		—			15		11			—		—
Overhead cost reduction initiative	—		—			11		8			—		—
Other	2		1			—		—			(1)		(1)
Corporate Total	107		80			48		36			54		39
Total net special items	109		83			94		80			68		50
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		(7)			9		7			(14)		(11)
Total net special items and non-operating pension expense (income)	$	98	$	76		$	103	$	87		$	54	$	39

(a) Recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

(b) Recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment.

(c) Includes income of $2 million (before and after taxes) recorded in the Printing Papers segment and charges of $1 million (before and after taxes) recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment.

(d) Includes $3 million ($2 million after taxes) and $9 million ($7 million after taxes) for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, respectively, recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment; $2 million (before and after taxes) and $3 million ($2 million after taxes) for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, respectively, recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment; $1 million (before and after taxes) for the three months ended September 30, 2019, recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

(e) Includes $4 million ($3 million after taxes) recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment and $6 million ($5 million after taxes) recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

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Details of net special items and non-operating pension expense for the nine months ended are as follows:

	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2020					2019
In millions	Before Tax		After Tax			Before Tax		After Tax
Business Segments
Brazil Packaging impairment	$	349	$	342	(a)	$	—	$	—
Abandoned property removal	14		11		(b)	35		26		(b)
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment	7		6		(c)	—		—
Riverdale mill conversion	1		1		(c)	3		3		(c)
Foreign value-added tax refund accrual	(2)		(1)		(a)	—		—
India Papers impairment	—		—			151		149		(c)
Italian antitrust fine	—		—			32		32		(a)
Overhead cost reduction initiative	—		—			10		8		(e)
Multi-employer pension plan exit liability	—		—			9		6		(a)
Gain on sale of previously closed Oregon mill site	—		—			(9)		(7)		(a)
Gain on sale of EMEA Packaging box plant	—		—			(7)		(6)		(a)
Other	(1)		(1)		(d)	—		—
Business Segments Total	368		358			224		211
Corporate
Debt extinguishment costs	131		98			—		—
Asbestos litigation reserve adjustment	43		33			—		—
Gain on sale of portion of investment in India	(6)		(6)			—		—
India investment fair value adjustment	17		17			—		—
Environmental remediation reserve adjustment	41		31			15		11
Gain on sale of portion of equity investment in Graphic Packaging	(33)		(25)			—		—
Litigation reserves	—		—			22		17
Overhead cost reduction initiative	—		—			11		8
Interest expense related to foreign tax audits	—		—			1		1
Other	—		(1)			—		—
Corporate Total	193		147			49		37
Total net special items	561		505			273		248
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(31)		(23)			27		21
Total net special items and non-operating pension expense (income)	$	530	$	482		$	300	$	269

(a) Recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment.

(b) Includes $9 million ($7 million after taxes) and $25 million ($19 million after taxes) for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, respectively, recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment; $5 million ($4 million after taxes) and $8 million ($5 million after taxes) for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, respectively, recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment; and $2 million (before and after taxes) for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

(c) Recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

(d) Includes income of $2 million (before and after taxes) recorded in the Printing Papers segment and charges of $1 million (before and after taxes) recorded in the Industrial Packaging segment.

(e) Includes charges of $4 million ($3 million after taxes) recorded in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment and charges of $6 million ($5 million after taxes) recorded in the Printing Papers segment.

Net special items include the following tax expenses (benefits):

	Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
In millions	2020		2019
Luxembourg tax law rate change	$	—	$	9
State income tax legislative changes	—		(3)
Settlement of foreign tax audits	—		3
Total	$	—	$	9

37

The following tables present net sales and business segment operating profit (loss) which is the Company's measure of segment profitability.

Industrial Packaging 

Total Industrial Packaging	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	3,768	$	3,633	$	11,220	$	3,820	$	3,864	$	11,516
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	469	$	449	$	1,388	$	535	$	515	$	1,471

Industrial Packaging net sales for the third quarter of 2020 were 4% higher compared with the second quarter of 2020 and 1% lower compared with the third quarter of 2019. Operating profit was 4% higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 and 12% lower compared with the third quarter of 2019.

North American Industrial Packaging	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales (a)	$	3,351	$	3,241	$	9,947	$	3,368	$	3,414	$	10,158
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	455	$	434	$	1,326	$	525	$	515	$	1,459

(a)Includes intra-segment sales of $31 million and $25 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively; $31 million for each of the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively; and $94 million and $87 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

North American Industrial Packaging sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 increased compared to the second quarter of 2020, reflecting higher shipments for boxes, partially offset by lower export containerboard volumes. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a mixed impact on box demand reflecting strong growth in the eCommerce segment as online shopping continues to be a major spending channel for consumers amid COVID-19 pandemic concerns. The shipping and distribution and protein segments were also favorably impacted. Demand for produce, processed foods and beverage in addition to non-essential items within the durable and non-durable segments were negatively impacted by COVID-19 restrictions and lower discretionary spending. Total maintenance and economic downtime was about 51,000 tons lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020, primarily driven by lower economic downtime. Average sales margins were stable as lower average sales prices for boxes was offset by higher export containerboard prices and a favorable mix. Operating costs were higher, driven by multiple weather events impacting our mix system and seasonality in our box plants. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $20 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were lower, primarily for recovered fiber and wood, partially offset by higher energy costs. Earnings in both the third quarter and the second quarter of 2020 benefited from insurance recoveries related to the Rome fire and Bogalusa recovery boiler event.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes were higher in the third quarter of 2020 for both boxes and export containerboard. Total maintenance and economic downtime was about 173,000 tons lower in the third quarter of 2020, primarily driven by lower economic downtime. Export containerboard and box prices were significantly lower reflecting prior index movements throughout 2019 and early 2020. Operating costs increased, driven by multiple weather events impacting our mill system and costs associated with the Riverdale conversion. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $13 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were lower driven by lower wood, energy and distribution costs, partially offset by higher recovered fiber costs. Earnings in the third quarter of 2020 benefited from insurance recoveries related to the Rome fire and Bogalusa recovery boiler event.

Entering the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes for boxes are expected to be lower, driven by three fewer shipping days compared with the third quarter of 2020. Demand continues to be mixed reflecting continued strong demand for eCommerce, protein and shipping and distribution, offset by slower demand for fresh foods and durable and other non-durable goods. Export containerboard volumes are expected to be modestly higher. Average sales margins for boxes are expected to be lower, slightly offset by higher export containerboard average sales margins. Operating costs are expected to improve without the cost of weather related events that occurred in the third quarter of 2020. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $35 million lower in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher primarily for energy.

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EMEA Industrial Packaging	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	306	$	297	$	953	$	324	$	331	$	994
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	3	$	5	$	18	$	(1)	$	(7)	$	(23)

EMEA Industrial Packaging sales volumes for boxes in the third quarter of 2020 were higher compared with the second quarter of 2020 as the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic showed some recovery in all regions at the end of the third quarter, partially offset by seasonally lower volumes in Morocco. Average sales margins were stable in Europe and seasonally lower in Morocco and Turkey. Operating costs were lower. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 with an outage at our Madrid, Spain mill. Input costs were lower. Earnings were negatively affected by unfavorable foreign currency impacts, primarily in Morocco.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were slightly lower, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic mostly offset by strong year over year recovery in Turkey. Average sales margins improved significantly, reflecting stable sales prices for boxes and lower containerboard costs. Operating costs improved from the ramp-up of the Madrid mill. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were lower. Earnings were negatively affected by unfavorable foreign currency impacts in Turkey.

Looking ahead to the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes for boxes are expected to be seasonally higher, primarily in Morocco. Average sales margins are expected to be slightly higher. Operating costs are expected to be higher. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $3 million lower in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher, primarily for energy.

Brazilian Industrial Packaging	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	52	$	42	$	148	$	61	$	58	$	176
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	—	$	(2)	$	(3)	$	(6)	$	(1)	$	(12)

On March 29, 2020 International Paper announced that it had entered into an agreement to sell its Brazilian Industrial Packaging business. The transaction closed October 14, 2020.

European Coated Paperboard	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	90	$	84	$	266	$	92	$	92	$	275
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	11	$	12	$	47	$	17	$	8	$	47

European Coated Paperboard sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 were higher in both Europe and Russia as the negative demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic showed some improvement. Average sales margins were lower in both regions driven by an unfavorable mix. Operating costs were higher in Europe and flat in Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were higher in Europe primarily for energy and purchased pulp. In Russia, input costs were lower, driven by wood and chemicals. Earnings benefited from favorable foreign currency impacts in both regions.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes increased in Russia, but decreased in Europe reflecting the demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Average sales margins were lower in both regions, reflecting lower prices and an unfavorable mix. Operating costs were higher in Europe and lower in Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $7 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were lower in Europe for purchased pulp, energy and wood. In Russia, input costs were stable. Earnings benefited from favorable foreign currency impacts in both regions.

Entering the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes are expected to be lower in Russia and stable in Europe. Average sales margins are expected to be stable in Europe and higher in Russia. Operating costs are expected to be higher in both regions. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $7 million lower in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be stable in both regions.

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Global Cellulose Fibers

Total Global Cellulose Fibers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	564	$	605	$	1,737	$	624	$	661	$	1,974
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	(59)	$	(10)	$	(123)	$	4	$	—	$	39

Global Cellulose Fibers net sales were 7% lower in the third quarter of 2020 than in the second quarter of 2020 and 10% lower than in the third quarter of 2019. Operating profit in the third quarter of 2020 was significantly lower compared to the second quarter of 2020 and the third quarter of 2019.

Sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 were seasonally lower and reflect slower COVID-19 pandemic-related consumer demand. Weakened demand in the paper segment was partially offset by increased consumer demand for absorbent hygiene and tissue and towel products. Total maintenance and economic downtime was about 96,000 tons higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 primarily due to higher maintenance downtime. Average sales margins improved, reflecting flow through of previous sales price increases. Operating costs were lower driven by seasonality and one-time items. Planned maintenance downtime costs in the third quarter of 2020 were $43 million higher compared with the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were higher, primarily for wood, energy and chemicals.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were lower for both fluff and market pulp driven by slowing demand reflecting customer destocking related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Total maintenance and economic downtime was about 13,000 tons higher in the third quarter of 2020, primarily due to higher maintenance downtime. Average sales prices were significantly lower for both fluff and market pulp. Operating costs were favorable reflecting one-time benefits in the third quarter of 2020 and the negative impacts of Hurricane Dorian in the third quarter of 2019. Planned maintenance downtime costs in the third quarter of 2020 were $32 million higher compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were stable.

Entering the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes are expected to be stable. Average sales margins are expected to be lower. Planned maintenance downtime costs in the fourth quarter of 2020 are expected to be $4 million higher compared with the third quarter of 2020. Operating costs are expected to be seasonally higher. Operating costs will be negatively affected by the non-repeat of one-time benefits in the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher primarily for wood, chemicals and energy.

Printing Papers 

Total Printing Papers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	743	$	583	$	2,234	$	1,071	$	1,088	$	3,224
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	63	$	(11)	$	148	$	162	$	114	$	420

Printing Papers net sales for the third quarter of 2020 were 27% higher than in the second quarter of 2020 and 31% lower than in the third quarter of 2019. Operating profit in the third quarter of 2020 was significantly higher compared with the second quarter of 2020 and significantly lower compared with the third quarter of 2019.

North American Papers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	362	$	265	$	1,073	$	492	$	486	$	1,474
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	31	$	(23)	$	31	$	76	$	41	$	174

North American Papers sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were higher compared with the second quarter of 2020 across all grades for uncoated freesheet paper reflecting signs of recovery from the unprecedented demand decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Total maintenance and economic downtime was about 128,000 tons lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 primarily due to economic downtime. Average sales margins were stable. Operating costs were flat. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $1 million higher in the third quarter of 2020, compared with the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were flat.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were significantly lower across all grades for uncoated freesheet paper driven by the demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Total maintenance and economic

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downtime was about 48,000 tons higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019 primarily due to economic downtime associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Average sales margins were lower, reflecting lower average sales prices. Operating costs were stable. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $3 million lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were favorable, primarily for wood, energy and chemicals.

Entering the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes are expected to be slightly higher driven by export sales. Average sales margins are expected to be stable. Operating costs are expected to be seasonally higher. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be slightly lower in the fourth quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher, primarily for energy and wood.

European Papers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	232	$	209	$	728	$	299	$	321	$	929
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	17	$	13	$	71	$	41	$	29	$	117

European Papers sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020 were stable in Europe and higher in Russia but continue to be impacted by the unprecedented demand decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic downtime due to the COVID-19 pandemic demand impact was lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2020. Average sales margins for uncoated freesheet paper decreased in both regions, reflecting lower average sales prices and an unfavorable mix in Russia. Operating costs were lower in Europe, but higher in Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $8 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared to the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were lower in both regions, primarily for wood and chemicals. Earnings benefited from favorable foreign currency impacts in Russia, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency impacts in Europe.

Sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in the third quarter of 2020, compared with the third quarter of 2019, were lower in Europe and Russia reflecting the negative demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Earnings in both regions were negatively impacted by economic downtime in the third quarter of 2020 due to the COVID-19 demand impact. Average sales margins for uncoated freesheet paper were lower in both regions reflecting lower average sales prices and an unfavorable mix. Operating costs were lower in both Europe and Russia reflecting strong cost management. Planned maintenance downtime costs were $16 million higher in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. In Europe, input costs were lower, primarily for wood, energy and chemicals. In Russia, input costs were flat. Earnings were negatively affected by unfavorable foreign currency impacts in Europe, mostly offset by favorable foreign currency impacts in Russia.

Looking forward to the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper are expected to improve in both regions. Average sales margins are expected to be stable in both regions. Operating costs are expected to be higher in both Europe and Russia. Planned maintenance downtime costs are expected to be $14 million lower in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher in both regions, primarily for energy, wood and chemicals.

Brazilian Papers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales (a)	$	150	$	108	$	434	$	247	$	240	$	702
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	15	$	(1)	$	46	$	44	$	37	$	114

(a)Includes intra-segment sales of $1 million and $5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively; $(1) million and $12 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively; and $1 million and $25 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Brazilian Papers sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020, compared with the second quarter of 2020, were higher for both domestic and export shipments of uncoated freesheet paper reflecting some improvement from the unprecedented decline in demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Economic downtime due to the demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020. Average sales margins were lower driven by lower export sales prices and an unfavorable geographic mix. Operating costs were stable. Planned maintenance outage downtime costs were $1 million lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the second quarter of 2020. Input costs were flat.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper in the third quarter of 2020 were lower in both export and domestic markets reflecting the demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Earnings were negatively impacted by economic downtime due to the demand impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Average sales margins were lower reflecting lower average sales prices and an unfavorable geographic mix. Operating costs were lower. Planned maintenance

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outage expenses were $1 million lower in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2019. Input costs were lower, primarily for virgin fiber and pulp.

Entering the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes for uncoated freesheet paper are expected to improve for both domestic and export shipments as demand continues to recover from COVID-19 negative demand impacts. Average sales margins are expected to be higher driven by a favorable geographic mix. Operating costs are expected to be stable. Planned maintenance outage expenses are expected to be lower in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs are expected to be higher.

Indian Papers	2020						2019
In millions	3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months		3rd Quarter		2nd Quarter		Nine Months
Sales	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	38	$	53	$	144
Operating Profit (Loss)	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	1	$	7	$	15

On May 29, 2019, International Paper announced it had entered into an agreement to sell its controlling interest in its Indian Papers business. The transaction closed on October 30, 2019.

Equity Earnings, Net of Taxes – Ilim

International Paper accounts for its 50% equity interest in Ilim S.A. (Ilim) using the equity method of accounting. Ilim is a separate reportable industry segment whose primary operations are in Russia. The Company recorded equity earnings (loss), net of taxes, of $(33) million in the third quarter of 2020, compared with $63 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $18 million in the third quarter of 2019. In the third quarter of 2020, the after-tax foreign exchange impact primarily on the remeasurement of U.S. dollar-denominated net debt was a loss of $55 million, compared with a gain of $34 million in the second quarter of 2020.

Compared with the second quarter of 2020, sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 were 3% higher overall, primarily for sales of softwood and hardwood pulp in China, partially offset by lower sales of hardwood pulp and containerboard in Russia and lower sales of softwood pulp in other export markets. Average sales price realizations decreased for softwood pulp and hardwood pulp in China, Russia and other export markets. Average sales price realizations for containerboard increased in all regions. Input costs were relatively flat. Repair and outage costs were higher due to scheduled maintenance outages at the Koryzhama and Bratsk mills in the third quarter.

Compared with the third quarter of 2019, sales volumes in the third quarter of 2020 increased overall by 20%, primarily from increased sales of softwood pulp in China, Russia and other export markets, partially offset by lower sales of hardwood pulp in China and Russia. Sales of containerboard in China and other export markets improved. Average sales price realizations for softwood pulp and hardwood pulp were lower in all regions. Average sales price realizations for containerboard were slightly higher in China, but lower in Russia and other export markets. Input costs, primarily for wood increased. Distribution costs were higher. An after-tax foreign exchange loss of $4 million primarily on the remeasurement of U.S. dollar denominated net debt was recorded in the third quarter of 2019.

Looking forward to the fourth quarter of 2020, sales volumes are expected to be higher. Based on pricing to date in the current quarter, average sales price realizations are projected to increase primarily for softwood pulp and containerboard compared with the third quarter of 2020. Input costs for wood and fuel are expected to be seasonally higher. Distribution costs are projected to increase.

Equity Earnings – GPIP

International Paper recorded equity earnings of $11 million in the third quarter of 2020, compared with $11 million in the second quarter of 2020 and $10 million in the third quarter of 2019. As of September 30, 2020, the Company's ownership interest in GPIP was 14.8%.

Cash provided by operations totaled $2.3 billion for the first nine months of 2020, compared with $2.7 billion for the comparable 2019 nine-month period.

Investments in capital projects, net of insurance recoveries, totaled $657 million in the first nine months of 2020, compared to $913 million in the first nine months of 2019. Full-year 2020 capital spending is currently expected to be approximately $800 million, which represents a reduction of approximately $200 million from our initial plan. This represents 62% of depreciation and amortization, including approximately $290 million of strategic investments.

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Financing activities for the first nine months of 2020 included a $1.1 billion net decrease in debt versus a $391 million net decrease in debt during the comparable 2019 nine-month period.

Amounts related to early debt extinguishment during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Early debt reductions (a)	$	903	$	77	$	1,190	$	245
Pre-tax early debt extinguishment (gain) loss, net	105		2		131		(1)

(a)Reductions related to notes with interest rates ranging from 3.00% to 7.50% with original maturities from 2021 to 2027 and from 3.00% to 4.40% with original maturities from 2027 to 2047 for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and from 3.00% to 7.50% with original maturities from 2021 to 2048 and from 3.00% to 9.50% with original maturities from 2024 to 2048 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

At September 30, 2020, contractual obligations for future payments of debt maturities (including finance lease liabilities disclosed in Note 11 - Leases of the Condensed Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements and excluding the timber monetization structures disclosed in Note 16 - Variable Interest Entities of the Condensed Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements) by calendar year were as follows: $146 million in 2020; $50 million in 2021; $200 million in 2022; $361 million in 2023; $532 million in 2024; and $7.4 billion thereafter.

Maintaining an investment-grade credit rating is an important element of International Paper’s financing strategy. At September 30, 2020, the Company held long-term credit ratings of BBB (stable outlook) and Baa2 (stable outlook) by S&P and Moody’s, respectively. In addition, the Company held short-term credit ratings of A2 and P2 by S&P and Moody's, respectively, for borrowings under the Company's commercial paper program.

At September 30, 2020, International Paper’s credit agreements totaled $2.8 billion, which is comprised of the $750 million contractually committed revolving credit agreement, the $1.5 billion contractually committed bank credit agreement, and up to $550 million under the receivables securitization program. Management believes these credit agreements are adequate to cover expected operating cash flow variability during the current economic cycle. The credit agreements generally provide for interest rates at a floating rate index plus a pre-determined margin dependent upon International Paper’s credit rating. At September 30, 2020, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under the $750 million revolving credit agreement, the $1.5 billion credit agreement, or the $550 million receivables securitization program. The Company’s credit agreements are not subject to any restrictive covenants other than the financial covenants as disclosed in Note 17 - Debt of the Condensed Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, and the borrowings under the receivables securitization program being limited by eligible receivables. The Company was in compliance with all its debt covenants at September 30, 2020 and was well below the thresholds stipulated under the covenants as defined in the credit agreements. Further the financial covenants do not restrict any borrowings under the credit agreements.

In addition to the $2.8 billion in credit agreements, International Paper has a commercial paper program with a borrowing capacity of $1.0 billion. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but not exceed one year from the date of issue. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed or floating rate notes. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had $140 million of borrowings outstanding under the program at a weighted average interest rate of 0.17%.

International Paper expects to be able to meet projected capital expenditures, service existing debt and meet working capital and dividend requirements for the next 12 months with current cash balances and cash from operations, supplemented as required by its existing credit facilities. The Company will continue to rely on debt and capital markets for the majority of any necessary long-term funding not provided by operating cash flows. Funding decisions will be guided by our capital structure planning objectives. The primary goals of the Company’s capital structure planning are to maximize financial flexibility and maintain appropriate levels of liquidity to meet our needs while managing balance sheet debt and interest expense. The majority of International Paper’s debt is accessed through global public capital markets where we have a wide base of investors. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global economy and created significant volatility and disruption of capital and financial markets. As a result of the current economic environment, management has taken various actions to further strengthen the Company’s liquidity position. In addition to the Company entering into a $750 million revolving credit agreement and the Company amending the receivable securitization program from uncommitted to committed financing, the Company is also on track to reduce capital expenditures by approximately $200 million from the initial 2020 plan, has indefinitely suspended the Company’s share repurchase program beginning April 2020, and has been deferring the payment of our payroll taxes as allowed under CARES Act. The CARES Act allows for the deferral of the payment of the employer portion of Social Security taxes accrued between March 27, 2020, and December 31, 2020. Under the CARES Act 50% of the deferred

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payroll taxes will be paid by December 31, 2021 and the remainder will be paid by December 31, 2022. We believe that these actions provide us with sufficient liquidity to operate in this uncertain environment; however, an extended period of economic disruption could impact our access to additional sources of liquidity.

During the first nine months of 2020, International Paper used 2.0 million shares of treasury stock for various incentive plans. International Paper also acquired 1.0 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock tax withholdings. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $42 million, including $14 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's repurchase program. The Company indefinitely suspended its repurchase program in April 2020.

During the first nine months of 2019, International Paper used approximately 3.4 million shares of treasury stock for various incentive plans. International Paper also acquired 11.9 million shares of treasury stock, including restricted stock tax withholding. Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock withholding taxes totaled $535 million, including $486 million related to shares repurchased under the Company's repurchase program.

Cash dividend payments related to common stock totaled $605 million and $595 million for the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. Dividends were $1.5375 per share and $1.5000 per share for the first nine months in 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Our pension plan is currently sufficiently funded and we do not anticipate any required contributions for the next 12 months.

Variable Interest Entities

Information concerning variable interest entities is set forth in Note 15 in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. In connection with the 2006 International Paper installment sale of forestlands, we received $4.8 billion of installment notes. These installment notes were used by variable interest entities as collateral for borrowings from third-party lenders. These variable interest entities were restructured in 2015 when the installment notes and third-party loans were extended. The restructured variable interest entities hold installment notes of $4.85 billion that mature in August 2021 and third-party loans of $4.22 billion that mature in November and December of 2020. These third-party loans are shown in Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. We are currently negotiating the extension of the third-party loans to August 2021 and expect to complete the extension before the maturity dates.

Failure to extend these third-party loans to August 2021 prior to their respective maturity dates in November and December of 2020 could necessitate a disposition of the installment notes to facilitate the $4.22 billion debt payment. We are confident we would be able to dispose of the installment notes, if necessary.

Ilim S.A. Shareholders’ Agreement

In October 2007, in connection with the formation of the Ilim S.A. joint venture (Ilim), International Paper entered into a shareholders' agreement that includes provisions relating to the reconciliation of disputes among the partners. This agreement provides that at any time, either the Company or its partners may commence procedures specified under the deadlock agreement. If these or any other deadlock procedures under the shareholders' agreement are commenced, although it is not obligated to do so, the Company may in certain situations choose to purchase its partners' 50% interest in Ilim. Any such transaction would be subject to review and approval by Russian and other relevant anti-trust authorities. Based on the provisions of the agreement, the Company estimates that the current purchase price for its partners' 50% interest would be approximately $900 million, which could be satisfied by payment of cash or International Paper common stock, or some combination of the two, at the Company's option. The purchase by the Company of its partners’ 50% interest in Ilim would result in the consolidation of Ilim's financial position and results of operations in all subsequent periods. The parties have informed each other that they have no current intention to commence procedures specified under the deadlock provisions of the shareholders' agreement.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires International Paper to establish accounting policies and to make estimates that affect both the amounts and timing of the recording of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Some of these estimates require judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain.

Accounting policies whose application may have a significant effect on the reported results of operations and financial position of International Paper, and that can require judgments by management that affect their application, include accounting for contingencies, impairment or disposal of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, pensions and income taxes.

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The Company has included in its 2019 Form 10-K a discussion of these critical accounting policies, which are important to the portrayal of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require management’s judgments. The Company has not made any changes in these critical accounting policies during the first nine months of 2020.

While we have taken into account certain impacts arising from COVID-19 in connection with the accounting estimates reflected in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the full impact of COVID-19 is unknown and cannot be reasonably estimated. However, we have made appropriate accounting estimates based on the facts and circumstances available as of the reporting date. To the extent there are differences between these estimates and actual results, our consolidated financial statements may be affected.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not historical in nature may be considered “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are often identified by the words “will,” “may,” “should,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “plan,” “appear,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend” and words of a similar nature. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and reflect management’s current views with respect to future events, which are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Factors which could cause actual results to differ include but are not limited to: (i) developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the severity, magnitude and duration of the pandemic, negative global economic conditions arising from the pandemic, the development, availability and effectiveness of treatments and vaccines, impacts of governments’ responses to the pandemic on our operations, impacts of the pandemic on commercial activity, our customers and business partners and consumer preferences and demand, supply chain disruptions, and disruptions in the capital or financial markets; (ii) the level of indebtedness and changes in interest rates; (iii) industry conditions, including but not limited to changes in the cost or availability of raw materials, energy and transportation costs, competition International Paper faces, cyclicality and changes in consumer preferences, demand and pricing for International Paper products (including changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic); (iv) domestic and global economic conditions and political changes, changes in currency exchange rates, trade protectionist policies, downgrades in International Paper’s credit ratings, and/or the credit ratings of banks issuing certain letters of credit, issued by recognized credit rating organizations; (v) the amount of International Paper’s future pension funding obligations, and pension and health care costs; (vi) unanticipated expenditures or other adverse developments related to the cost of compliance with existing and new environmental, tax, labor and employment, privacy and other U.S. and non-U.S. governmental laws and regulations (including new legal requirements arising from the COVID-19 pandemic); (vii) any material disruption at any of International Paper’s manufacturing facilities due to severe weather, natural disasters or other causes (including as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic); (viii) risks inherent in conducting business through joint ventures; (ix) International Paper’s ability to achieve the benefits expected from, and other risks associated with, acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures and other corporate transactions, (x) information technology risks, and (xi) loss contingencies and pending, threatened or future litigation, including with respect to environmental related matters. These and other factors that could cause or contribute to actual results differing materially from such forward-looking statements can be found in International Paper’s press releases and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to International Paper or that it currently believes to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any forward-looking statements. International Paper undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Information relating to quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk is shown on page 36 of International Paper’s 2019 Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by reference. There have been no material changes in the Company’s exposure to market risk since December 31, 2019.

ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures:

Disclosure controls and procedures are controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported (and accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure) within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. As of the end of the period covered by this report, we conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 of

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the Exchange Act. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 30, 2020 (the end of the period covered by this report).

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting:

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended September 30, 2020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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ITEM 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

A discussion of material developments in the Company’s litigation matters occurring in the period covered by this report is found in Note 15 of the Condensed Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Form 10-Q, which is incorporated by reference.

ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 (Part I, Item 1A) other than as discussed below.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse effect on portions of our business, and may have material adverse effects on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, particularly if negative economic conditions associated with COVID-19 persist or deteriorate.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in authorities throughout the world implementing widespread measures attempting to contain the spread and impact of COVID-19, such as travel bans and restrictions, quarantines, stay-at-home orders, the promotion of social distancing and limitations on business activity, including business closures. These measures and the pandemic have caused a significant global economic downturn, disrupting supply chains, significantly increasing unemployment and underemployment levels, and adversely impacting consumer confidence and spending. The continued spread of COVID-19 has also led to significant disruption and volatility in the global capital and financial markets.

Although governments of countries in which we operate have generally considered forest products and the supply chain on which we depend to be “essential industries” that should remain operational during this pandemic, any significant disruption in operations at one or more of our mills, plants or other facilities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including precautionary measures we take or taken by governmental authorities that limits in-person workplace contact at any of our facilities to reduce the potential for employee exposure to COVID-19, could have an adverse effect on our business or operations. If a significant portion of our workforce is unable to work effectively due to measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic such as those described herein, our operations will likely be negatively impacted.

COVID-19 has had a significant negative impact on demand for our printing papers products. In addition, demand for our pulp, containerboard and corrugated box products could be unfavorably impacted if the negative economic conditions associated with COVID-19 persist or deteriorate.

In addition to the reduction in demand for our products that the COVID-19 pandemic has had or could have, other negative impacts on our business, include, but are not limited to, the following:

•We rely on a global workforce, and we take measures to protect the health and safety of our employees, customers and others with whom we do business, while continuing to effectively manage our employees and maintain business operations. During the pandemic, we have taken additional measures and incurred additional expenses to protect the health and safety of our employees to comply with applicable government requirements and safety guidance. Our business operations may be additionally disrupted if a significant portion of our workforce is unable to work safely and effectively due to illness, quarantines, government actions, or other restrictions or measures responsive to the pandemic. Measures taken across our business operations to address health and safety may not be sufficient to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among our employee base, customers and others.

•A significant number of our employees as well as customers and others with whom we do business, continue to work remotely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our business operations may be disrupted, and we may experience increased risk of adverse effects to our business, if a significant portion of our workforce or certain business operations are negatively impacted as a result of remote work arrangements, including due to cyber risks or other disruption to our technology infrastructure.

•Cost management and various cost-containment actions implemented across our business in response to the COVID-19 pandemic could hinder execution of our business strategy, including deferral of planned capital expenditures, and could adversely affect our business and results of operations.

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While we are closely monitoring the impact of the pandemic on all aspects of our business, the extent of the impact on our results of operations, cash flow, liquidity, and financial performance, as well as our ability to execute near-term and long-term business strategies and initiatives, will depend on numerous evolving factors and future developments, which are highly uncertain and which we cannot predict or control, and some of which we are not currently aware, including, but not limited to: (a) the duration, severity and scope of the pandemic, including additional waves, increases and spikes in the number of COVID-19 cases in certain areas; (b) rapidly-changing governmental and public health directives to contain and combat the outbreak, including the duration, degree and effectiveness of directives, as well as the easing, removal and potential reinstitution of directives; (c) the development, availability and effectiveness of treatments and vaccines for COVID-19; (d) the extent and duration of the pandemic’s adverse effect on economic and social activity, consumer confidence, discretionary spending and preferences, labor and healthcare costs, and unemployment rates, any of which may reduce demand for our products; (e) any temporary reduction in our workforce, closures of our offices and facilities and our ability to adequately staff and maintain our operations; and (f) the ability of our customers and suppliers to continue their operations, which could result in terminations of contracts, losses of revenue, adverse effects to our supply chain. If the pandemic continues to create disruptions or turmoil in the credit or financial markets, or impacts our credit ratings, it could adversely affect our ability to access capital on favorable terms and continue to meet our liquidity needs.

Given the inherent uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, we expect the pandemic will continue to have an adverse impact on portions of our business in the near term. If these conditions persist for a prolonged period, the COVID-19 pandemic, including any of the above factors and others that are currently unknown, may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flow, liquidity, or financial condition.

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased (a)	Average Price Paid per Share	Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of a Publicly Announced Plan or Program	Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in billions)
July 1, 2020 - July 31, 2020	3,415	$35.15	—	$1.73
August 1, 2020 - August 31, 2020	1,663	34.79	—	1.73
September 1, 2020 - September 30, 2020	549	40.28	—	1.73
Total	5,627

(a) 5,627 shares were acquired from employees or board members as a result of share withholdings to pay income taxes under the Company's restricted stock program. A share repurchase program was approved on September 10, 2013, and increased twice on July 8, 2014, and October 9, 2018. Through this program, which does not have an expiration date, we were authorized to purchase, in open market transactions (including block trades), privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, up to $5 billion of shares of our common stock. As of September 30, 2020, approximately $1.73 billion aggregate amount of shares of our common stock remained authorized for purchase under this program. The Company indefinitely suspended its repurchase program in April 2020.

48

10.1	Agreement Regarding Continued Employment, Termination, Severance and General Release dated September 8, 2020 between International Paper Company and Catherine I. Slater (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 11, 2020).
31.1	Certification of principal executive officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2	Certification of principal financial officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32	Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS	XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document.
101.SCH	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.
101.CAL	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.
101.DEF	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase.
101.LAB	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.
101.PRE	XBRL Extension Presentation Linkbase.
104	Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL, and contained in Exhibit 101).

49

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

	INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY                         (Registrant)
October 30, 2020	By	/s/ Tim S. Nicholls
		Tim S. Nicholls
		Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
October 30, 2020	By	/s/ Vincent P. Bonnot
		Vincent P. Bonnot
		Vice President – Finance and Controller

50

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Mark S. Sutton, certify that:

1.I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of International Paper Company;

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

October 30, 2020

/s/ Mark S. Sutton

Mark S. Sutton

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Tim S. Nicholls, certify that:

1.I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of International Paper Company;

2.Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

October 30, 2020

/s/ Tim S. Nicholls

Tim S. Nicholls

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32

Exhibit 32

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

The certification set forth below is being submitted in connection with the Quarterly Report of International Paper Company (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2020 for the purpose of complying with Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code. Mark S. Sutton, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Tim S. Nicholls, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, each certify that, to the best of his or her knowledge:

(1)The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act; and

(2)The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ Mark S. Sutton

Mark S. Sutton

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

October 30, 2020

/s/ Tim S. Nicholls

Tim S. Nicholls

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

October 30, 2020

XML

Document and Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Oct. 23, 2020
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2020
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-03157
Entity Registrant Name	INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	NY
Entity Tax Identification Number	13-0872805
Entity Address, Address Line One	6400 Poplar Avenue
Entity Address, City or Town	Memphis
Entity Address, State or Province	TN
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	38197
City Area Code	901
Local Phone Number	419-7000
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Shares
Trading Symbol	IP
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		393,095,466
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Entity Central Index Key	0000051434
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31

XML

Consolidated Statement of Operations - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Net Sales	$ 5,123	$ 5,568	$ 15,341	$ 16,878
Costs and Expenses
Cost of products sold	3,541	3,772	10,714	11,602
Selling and administrative expenses	360	387	1,110	1,202
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested	320	327	955	963
Distribution expenses	377	395	1,149	1,168
Taxes other than payroll and income taxes	44	42	129	128
Restructuring and other charges, net	105	21	131	21
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses	(5)	8	347	153
Net (gains) losses on sales of equity method investments	(2)	0	(35)	0
Antitrust fines	0	32	0	32
Interest expense, net	112	123	345	378
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)	9	(31)	27
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes and Equity Earnings	282	452	527	1,204
Income tax provision (benefit)	50	137	211	371
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	(28)	27	13	221
Net Earnings (Loss)	204	342	329	1,054
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	(2)	0	(6)
Net Earnings (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	$ 204	$ 344	$ 329	$ 1,060
Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders
Net earnings (loss)	$ 0.52	$ 0.88	$ 0.84	$ 2.67
Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share Attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders
Net earnings (loss)	$ 0.52	$ 0.87	$ 0.83	$ 2.65
Average Shares of Common Stock Outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6	395.4	394.5	399.6

XML

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Net Earnings (Loss)	$ 204	$ 342	$ 329	$ 1,054
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment	(28)	(179)	(515)	(106)
Net gains (losses) arising during the period	(4)	(10)	(34)	(6)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net earnings (loss)	6	4	26	5
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	17	(144)	(395)	15
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	221	198	(66)	1,069
Net (earnings) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	2	0	6
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0	0	2	0
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to International Paper Company	221	200	(64)	1,075
Foreign Plan
U.S. plans	1	0	1	0
U.S. plans
U.S. plans	$ 42	$ 41	$ 127	$ 122

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Current Assets
Cash and temporary investments	$ 678	$ 511
Accounts and notes receivable, net	3,034	3,280
Contract assets	388	393
Inventories	2,007	2,208
Assets held for sale	114	0
Other current assets	217	247
Total Current Assets	11,288	6,639
Plants, Properties and Equipment, net	12,410	13,004
Forestlands	288	391
Investments	1,100	1,721
Goodwill	3,304	3,347
Right of Use Assets	422	434
Deferred Charges and Other Assets	776	847
Total Assets	31,840	33,471
Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	179	168
Accounts payable	2,226	2,423
Accrued payroll and benefits	453	466
Liabilities held for sale	376	0
Other current liabilities	1,022	1,369
Total Current Liabilities	8,476	8,646
Long-Term Debt	8,525	9,597
Deferred Income Taxes	2,639	2,633
Pension Benefit Obligation	1,421	1,578
Postretirement and Postemployment Benefit Obligation	246	270
Long-Term Lease Obligations	290	304
Other Liabilities	1,056	640
Equity
Common stock, $1 par value, 2020 – 448.9 shares and 2019 – 448.9 shares	449	449
Paid-in capital	6,302	6,297
Retained earnings	8,122	8,408
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(5,132)	(4,739)
Shareholders' Equity before Treasury Stock, Total	9,741	10,415
Less: Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 2020 – 55.8 shares and 2019 – 56.8 shares	2,648	2,702
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity	7,093	7,713
Noncontrolling interests	3	5
Total Equity	7,096	7,718
Total Liabilities and Equity	31,840	33,471
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Current Assets
Current financial assets of variable interest entities (Note 16)	4,850	0
Long-Term Financial Assets of Variable Interest Entities (Note 16)	2,252	7,088
Current Liabilities
Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities (Note 16)	4,220	4,220
Long-Term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities (Note 16)	$ 2,091	$ 2,085

XML

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Common stock, par value	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock, shares	448,900	448,900
Common stock held in treasury, shares	55,800	56,800

XML

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Operating Activities
Net earnings (loss)	$ 329	$ 1,054
Depreciation, amortization and cost of timber harvested	955	963
Deferred income tax provision (benefit), net	(5)	68
Restructuring and other charges, net	131	21
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses	347	153
Net (gains) losses on sales of equity method investments	(35)	0
Antitrust fines	0	32
Equity method dividends received	158	260
Equity (earnings) losses, net	(13)	(221)
Periodic pension expense, net	24	70
Other, net	212	106
Changes in current assets and liabilities
Accounts and notes receivable	96	168
Contract assets	2	6
Inventories	74	(9)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0	(11)
Interest payable	(26)	(31)
Other	25	53
Cash Provided By (Used For) Operations	2,274	2,682
Investment Activities
Invested in capital projects, net of insurance recoveries	(657)	(913)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(64)	(99)
Proceeds from sales of equity method investments	500	0
Proceeds from sales of businesses, net of cash divested	0	17
Proceeds from sale of fixed assets	3	15
Other	18	(14)
Cash Provided By (Used For) Investment Activities	(200)	(994)
Financing Activities
Repurchases of common stock and payments of restricted stock tax withholding	(42)	(535)
Issuance of debt	692	381
Reduction of debt	(1,795)	(772)
Change in book overdrafts	16	(29)
Dividends paid	(605)	(595)
Debt tender premiums paid	(124)	0
Other	(1)	3
Cash Provided By (Used For) Financing Activities	(1,859)	(1,547)
Cash Included in Assets Held for Sale	(11)	(19)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash	(37)	(14)
Change in Cash and Temporary Investments	167	108
Cash and Temporary Investments
Beginning of period	511	589
End of period	$ 678	$ 697

XML

BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Business Description and Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments that are necessary for the fair presentation of International Paper Company’s (International Paper’s, the Company’s or our) financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the interim periods presented. Except as disclosed herein, such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. Results for the first nine months of the year may not necessarily be indicative of full year results. It is suggested that these condensed financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019, which have previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

On March 11, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) a global pandemic and recommended containment and mitigation measures worldwide. Most of our manufacturing and converting facilities have remained open and operational during the pandemic. The health and safety of our employees and contractors is our most important responsibility as we manage through the COVID-19 pandemic. We have implemented work-systems across the Company, including hygiene, social distancing, site cleaning, contact tracing, and other measures, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and WHO. Our COVID-19 measures are proving to be effective and we have not had any material disruptions to our operations.

We have seen a significant negative impact on demand for our printing papers products. Demand for our pulp, containerboard and corrugated box products has not been negatively impacted by COVID-19 to date, but could be unfavorably impacted going forward if negative economic conditions associated with COVID-19 persist or deteriorate. Furthermore, if there is a resurgence of the virus leading to additional governmental measures, such as stay-at-home orders or business and school closures, our supply chain, and therefore our production, could be negatively impacted.

XML

RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]

Recent Accounting Developments [Note Text Block]

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments." This guidance replaces the current incurred loss impairment method with a method that reflects expected credit losses. The Company adopted this guidance using the modified retrospective approach on January 1, 2020. As a result of using this approach, the Company recognized a cumulative effect adjustment of $2 million to the opening balance of retained earnings representing the adjustment to our opening allowance for doubtful accounts required to state our trade receivables and contract assets net of their expected credit losses, net of deferred taxes.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

Reference Rate Reform

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting." This guidance provides companies with optional guidance to ease the potential accounting burden associated with transitioning away from reference rates that are expected to be discontinued. This guidance

is effective upon issuance and generally can be applied through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance.

Income Taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes." This guidance removes certain exceptions from recognizing deferred taxes for investments, performing intraperiod allocation and calculating income taxes in interim periods. It also adds guidance to reduce complexity in certain areas, including recognizing deferred taxes for tax goodwill and allocating taxes to members of a consolidated group. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2020, and interim periods within those years. Early adoption of the amendments is permitted, including adoption in any interim period for public business entities for periods for which financial statements have not yet been issued. The Company plans to early adopt the provisions of this guidance in the fourth quarter of 2020 and does not expect the impact to be material.

XML

REVENUE RECOGNITION (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]

Generally, the Company recognizes revenue on a point-in-time basis when the customer takes title to the goods and assumes the risks and rewards for the goods. For customized goods where the Company has a legally enforceable right to payment for the goods, the Company recognizes revenue over time which, generally, is as the goods are produced.

Disaggregated Revenue

A geographic disaggregation of revenues across our company segmentation in the following tables provides information to assist in evaluating the nature, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows and how they may be impacted by economic factors.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,169	$	479	$	362	$	44	$	4,054
EMEA	394		59		244		(3)		694
Pacific Rim and Asia	15		26		6		10		57
Americas, other than U.S.	190		—		131		(3)		318
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,351	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,351
EMEA Industrial Packaging	306		—		—		—		306
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	52		—		—		—		52
European Coated Paperboard	90		—		—		—		90
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		564		—		—		564
North American Printing Papers	—		—		362		—		362
Brazilian Papers	—		—		150		—		150
European Papers	—		—		232		—		232
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(31)		—		(1)		—		(32)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		48		48
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,364	$	1,507	$	1,069	$	146	$	12,086
EMEA	1,213		175		765		(11)		2,142
Pacific Rim and Asia	43		55		20		20		138
Americas, other than U.S.	600		—		380		(5)		975
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	9,947	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	9,947
EMEA Industrial Packaging	953		—		—		—		953
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	148		—		—		—		148
European Coated Paperboard	266		—		—		—		266
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,737		—		—		1,737
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,073		—		1,073
Brazilian Papers	—		—		434		—		434
European Papers	—		—		728		—		728
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(94)		—		(1)		—		(95)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		150		150
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,180	$	535	$	486	$	56	$	4,257
EMEA	415		62		315		(1)		791
Pacific Rim and Asia	20		27		47		3		97
Americas, other than U.S.	205		—		223		(5)		423
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,368	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,368
EMEA Industrial Packaging	324		—		—		—		324
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	61		—		—		—		61
European Coated Paperboard	92		—		—		—		92
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		624		—		—		624
North American Printing Papers	—		—		492		—		492
Brazilian Papers	—		—		247		—		247
European Papers	—		—		299		—		299
Indian Papers	—		—		38		—		38
Intra-segment Eliminations	(25)		—		(5)		—		(30)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		53		53
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,531	$	1,656	$	1,448	$	174	$	12,809
EMEA	1,263		207		986		(8)		2,448
Pacific Rim and Asia	50		111		167		9		337
Americas, other than U.S.	672		—		623		(11)		1,284
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	10,158	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	10,158
EMEA Industrial Packaging	994		—		—		—		994
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	176		—		—		—		176
European Coated Paperboard	275		—		—		—		275
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,974		—		—		1,974
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,474		—		1,474
Brazilian Papers	—		—		702		—		702
European Papers	—		—		929		—		929
Indian Papers	—		—		144		—		144
Intra-segment Eliminations	(87)		—		(25)		—		(112)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		164		164
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

Revenue Contract Balances

A contract asset is created when the Company recognizes revenue on its customized products prior to having an unconditional right to payment from the customer, which generally does not occur until title and risk of loss passes to the customer.

A contract liability is created when customers prepay for goods prior to the Company transferring those goods to the customer. The contract liability is reduced once control of the goods is transferred to the customer. The majority of our customer prepayments are received during the fourth quarter each year for goods that will be transferred to customers over the following twelve months. Contract liabilities of $20 million and $56 million are included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

The difference between the opening and closing balances of the Company's contract assets and contract liabilities primarily results from the difference between the price and quantity at comparable points in time for goods for which we have an unconditional right to payment or receive pre-payment from the customer, respectively.

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EQUITY (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Equity [Abstract]

Equity [Note Text Block]

A summary of the changes in equity for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 is provided below:

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,283	$	8,123	$	(5,149)	$	2,649	$	7,057	$	3	$	7,060
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		18		—		—		(2)		20		—		20
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		1		(1)		—		(1)
Common stock dividends ($0.5125 per share)	—		—		(205)		—		—		(205)		—		(205)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		1		—		—		—		1		—		1
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		204		17		—		221		—		221
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,297	$	8,408	$	(4,739)	$	2,702	$	7,713	$	5	$	7,718
Adoption of ASU 2016-13 measurement of credit losses on financial instruments	—		—		(2)		—		—		(2)		—		(2)
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(31)		—		—		(96)		65		—		65
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		42		(42)		—		(42)
Common stock dividends ($1.5375 per share)	—		—		(613)		—		—		(613)		—		(613)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		36		—		—		—		36		—		36
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		329		(393)		—		(64)		(2)		(66)
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,229	$	8,302	$	(4,870)	$	2,628	$	7,482	$	17	$	7,499
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		32		—		—		(1)		33		—		33
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		75		(75)		—		(75)
Common stock dividends ($0.5000 per share)	—		—		(199)		—		—		(199)		—		(199)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		344		(144)		—		200		(2)		198
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,280	$	7,465	$	(4,500)	$	2,332	$	7,362	$	21	$	7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform	—		—		529		(529)		—		—		—		—
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(52)		—		—		(165)		113		—		113
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		535		(535)		—		(535)
Common stock dividends ($1.5000 per share)	—		—		(607)		—		—		(607)		—		(607)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		33		—		—		—		33		—		33
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		1,060		15		—		1,075		(6)		1,069
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

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OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Equity [Abstract]

Other Comprehensive Income [Note Text Block]

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	$	(2,192)	$	(2,362)	$	(2,277)	$	(1,916)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(527)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	43		41		128		122
Balance at end of period	(2,149)		(2,321)		(2,149)		(2,321)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	(2,950)		(2,508)		(2,465)		(2,581)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(28)		(179)		(515)		(110)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	—		—		—		4
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	—		—		2		—
Balance at end of period	(2,978)		(2,687)		(2,978)		(2,687)
Net Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedging Derivatives
Balance at beginning of period	(7)		—		3		(3)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(4)		(10)		(34)		(6)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(2)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	6		4		26		5
Balance at end of period	(5)		(6)		(5)		(6)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) at End of Period	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)

The following table presents details of the reclassifications out of AOCI for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

In millions:	Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income									Location of Amount Reclassified from AOCI
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined benefit pension and postretirement items:
Prior-service costs	$	(5)	$	(4)	$	(15)	$	(10)	(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Actuarial gains (losses)	(52)		(50)		(155)		(152)		(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Total pre-tax amount	(57)		(54)		(170)		(162)
Tax (expense) benefit	14		13		42		40
Net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		(122)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		527			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		405
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments:
Business acquisitions/divestitures	—		—		—		(4)			Cost of products sold
Tax (expense) benefit	—		—		—		—
Net of tax	—		—		—		(4)
Net gains and losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:
Foreign exchange contracts	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)		(b)	Cost of products sold
Total pre-tax amount	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)
Tax (expense)/benefit	2		2		13		2
Net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(5)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		2			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(3)
Total reclassifications for the period	$	(49)	$	(45)	$	(154)	$	398

(a)These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 19 for additional details).

(b)This accumulated other comprehensive income component is included in our derivatives and hedging activities (see Note 18 for additional details).

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EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share [Note Text Block]

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing earnings by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed assuming that all potentially dilutive securities were converted into common shares. There are no adjustments required to be made to net income for purposes of computing basic and diluted earnings per share. A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share is as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions, except per share amounts	2020		2019		2020		2019
Earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders	$	204	$	344	$	329	$	1,060
Weighted average common shares outstanding	393.1		392.6		392.9		396.3
Effect of dilutive securities
Restricted performance share plan	1.5		2.8		1.6		3.3
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6		395.4		394.5		399.6
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.88	$	0.84	$	2.67
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.83	$	2.65

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RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring and Related Activities [Note Text Block]

2020: During the three months ended September 30, 2020, the Company recorded a $105 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

During the three months ended June 30, 2020, the Company recorded an $18 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

During the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company recorded an $8 million pre-tax charge in Corporate related to early debt extinguishment costs.

2019: During the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recorded an $11 million pre-tax charge in Corporate, a $6 million pre-tax charge in the Printing Papers segment and a $4 million pre-tax charge in the Global Cellulose Fibers segment for severance related to an overhead cost reduction initiative. The majority of the severance was paid over the next twelve months.

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ACQUISITIONS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]

2020: In May 2020, the Company increased its noncontrolling interest in an entity that produces corrugated sheets. The equity purchase price was $64 million. The Company is party to various agreements with the entity which includes a containerboard supply agreement. The Company will account for its interest as an equity method investment.

2019: On June 28, 2019, the Company closed on the previously announced acquisition of two packaging businesses located in Portugal (Ovar) and France (Torigni and Cabourg) from DS Smith Packaging. The total purchase consideration, inclusive of working capital adjustments, was approximately €71 million (approximately $81 million at June 30, 2019 exchange rates).

The following table summarizes the final fair value assigned to assets and liabilities acquired as of June 28, 2019:

In millions
Cash and temporary investments	$	2
Accounts and notes receivable	22
Inventory	8
Plants, properties and equipment	37
Goodwill	27
Intangible assets	14
Right of use assets	3
Deferred charges and other assets	2
Total assets acquired	$	115
Short-term debt	$	2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17
Other current liabilities	5
Deferred income taxes	4
Long-term debt	1
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligation	3
Long-term lease obligations	2
Total liabilities assumed	34
Net assets acquired	$	81

Pro forma information has not been included as it is impracticable to obtain the information due to the lack of availability of historical U.S. GAAP financial data. The results of the operations of these businesses do not have a material effect on the Company's condensed consolidated results of operations.

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DIVESTITURES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Note Text Block]

2020: On March 29, 2020, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement to sell its Brazilian Industrial Packaging business for R$330 million (approximately $58.5 million using the September 30, 2020 exchange rate), with R$280 million to be paid at closing and R$50 million one year thereafter, subject to the final working capital adjustments. This business includes three containerboard mills and four box plants and the agreement follows International Paper's previously announced strategic review of the Brazilian Industrial Packaging business.

In conjunction with the announced agreement, a preliminary pre-tax charge of $347 million ($340 million after taxes) was recorded during the first nine months of 2020. These charges are included in Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of operations and is included in the results for the Industrial Packaging segment. Subsequent to September 30, 2020, the transaction closed and final working capital adjustments, if any, will be recognized during the fourth quarter of 2020.

At September 30, 2020, all assets and liabilities related to the Brazilian Industrial Packaging business are classified as current assets held for sale and current liabilities held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

The following summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities of this business reconciled to total Assets held for sale and total Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

In millions	September 30, 2020
Cash and temporary investments	$	11
Accounts and notes receivable	41
Inventories	22
Other current assets	1
Plants, properties and equipment (net of impairment)	28
Deferred charges and other assets	11
Total Assets Held for Sale	$	114
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	36
Deferred income taxes	3
Other liabilities	8
Impairment reserve (cumulative foreign currency translation)	329
Total Liabilities Held for Sale	$	376

2019: On October 30, 2019, the Company closed the previously announced sale of its controlling interest in International Paper APPM Limited (APPM) to West Coast Paper Mills (WCPM). During the second quarter of 2020 the Company sold substantially all of its remaining investment and recorded a gain of $6 million. During the third quarter of 2020 the Company sold its remaining immaterial investment in APPM.

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Supplemental Financial Statement Information [Note Text Block]

Temporary Investments 

Temporary investments with an original maturity of three months or less and money market funds with greater than three month maturities but with the right to redeem without notices are treated as cash equivalents and are stated at cost. Temporary investments totaled $450 million and $335 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

Accounts and Notes Receivable

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Accounts and notes receivable, net:
Trade	$	2,789	$	3,020
Other	245		260
Total	$	3,034	$	3,280

The allowance for expected credit losses was $86 million at September 30, 2020 and the allowance for doubtful accounts was $73 million at December 31, 2019. Based on the Company's accounting estimates and the facts and circumstances available as of the reporting date, we believe our allowance for expected credit losses is adequate. While we have taken into account certain impacts of COVID-19 in connection with our estimate of the allowance for expected credit losses, it is possible that additional expected credit losses in excess of such allowance could occur if additional containment and mitigation measures are required or negative economic conditions persist or deteriorate as a result of of COVID-19.

Inventories 

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Raw materials	$	257	$	298
Finished pulp, paper and packaging	1,023		1,192
Operating supplies	638		659
Other	89		59
Total	$	2,007	$	2,208

Plants, Properties and Equipment  

Accumulated depreciation was $21.0 billion and $20.5 billion at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Depreciation expense was $300 million and $305 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $902 million for both the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019.

Non-cash additions to plants, property and equipment included within accounts payable were $33 million and $164 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

Amounts invested in capital projects in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of cash flows are presented net of insurance recoveries of $40 million received during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. There were no insurance recoveries received during the nine months ended September 30, 2019.

Interest

Interest payments made during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were $520 million and $591 million, respectively.

Amounts related to interest were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Interest expense	$	148	$	177	$	467	$	538
Interest income	36		54		122		160
Capitalized interest costs	9		7		27		21

Asset Retirement Obligations

The Company had recorded liabilities of $97 million and $96 million related to asset retirement obligations at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

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LEASES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Leases [Abstract]

Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]

International Paper leases various real estate, including certain operating facilities, warehouses, office space and land. The Company also leases material handling equipment, vehicles, and certain other equipment. The Company's leases have remaining lease terms of one year to 96 years. Total lease cost was $68 million for both the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, and $202 million and $206 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related to Leases

In millions	Classification	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Assets
Operating lease assets	Right-of-use assets	$	422	$	434
Finance lease assets	Plants, properties and equipment, net (a)	95		103
Total leased assets		$	517	$	537
Liabilities
Current
Operating	Other current liabilities	$	137	$	134
Finance	Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	12		12
Noncurrent
Operating	Long-term lease obligations	290		304
Finance	Long-term debt	83		88
Total lease liabilities		$	522	$	538

(a)Finance leases are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $49 million and $40 million as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

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EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block]

The Company accounts for the following investments in affiliated companies under the equity method of accounting.

Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC

The Company completed the transfer of its North American Consumer Packaging business in exchange for an initial 20.5% ownership interest (79,911,511 units) in Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (GPIP) in 2018. GPIP subsequently transferred the North American Consumer Packaging business to Graphic Packaging International, LLC (GPI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GPIP that holds the assets of the combined business. On January 29, 2020, the Company exchanged 15,150,784 units of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $33 million ($25 million after taxes) which was recorded in the first quarter of 2020. On August 7, 2020, the Company exchanged 17,399,414 units of the aggregate units owned by the Company for an aggregated price of $250 million, resulting in an immaterial gain which was recorded in the third quarter of 2020. As of September 30, 2020, the Company's ownership interest in GPIP was 14.8%. The Company recorded equity earnings of $11 million and $10 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $29 million and $37 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company received cash dividends from GPIP of $16 million and $20 million during the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company's investment in GPIP was $693 million and $1.1 billion at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, which was $347 million and $529 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the entity's underlying net assets. The difference primarily relates to the basis difference between the fair value of our investment and the underlying net assets, and is generally amortized in equity earnings over a period consistent with the underlying long-lived assets. The Company is party to various agreements with GPI under which it sells fiber and other products to GPI. Sales under these agreements were $60 million and $69 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $190 million and $212 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Company continues to evaluate its investment in GPI relative to options available to further monetize this investment.

Summarized financial information for GPIP is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	2,013	$	1,796
Noncurrent assets	5,662		5,482
Current liabilities	1,692		1,178
Noncurrent liabilities	3,617		3,244

Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	1,698	$	1,581	$	4,908	$	4,640
Gross profit	255		266		838		820
Income from continuing operations	89		83		146		283
Net income	89		83		146		283

Ilim S.A.

The Company has a 50% equity interest in Ilim S.A. (Ilim), which has subsidiaries whose primary operations are in Russia. The Company recorded equity earnings (losses), net of taxes, of $(33) million and $18 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $(5) million and $186 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The Company received cash dividends from the joint venture of $141 million and $239 million during the first nine months of 2020 and 2019, respectively. At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company's investment in Ilim was $322 million and $508 million, respectively, which was $126 million and $136 million, respectively, more than the Company's proportionate share of the joint venture's underlying net assets. The differences primarily relate to currency translation adjustments and the basis difference between the fair value of our investment at acquisition and the underlying net assets. The Company is party to a joint marketing agreement with JSC Ilim Group, a subsidiary of Ilim, under which the Company purchases, markets and sells paper produced by JSC Ilim Group. Purchases under this agreement were $41 million and $51 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and $131 million and $162 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Summarized financial information for Ilim is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	592	$	804
Noncurrent assets	2,442		2,813
Current liabilities	613		1,015
Noncurrent liabilities	2,015		1,844
Noncontrolling interests	13		16

Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	498	$	479	$	1,474	$	1,692
Gross profit	191		196		597		836
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(62)		41		7		388
Net income (loss)	(60)		40		7		375

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GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and Other Intangibles [Note Text Block]

Goodwill

The following table presents changes in goodwill balances as allocated to each business segment for the nine-months ended September 30, 2020: 

In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Total
Balance as of January 1, 2020
Goodwill	$	3,410	$	52	$	1,998	$	5,460
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
	3,114		—		233		3,347
Currency translation and other (a)	1		—		(45)		(44)
Goodwill additions/reductions	1		—		—		1
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions	—		—		—		—
Balance as of September 30, 2020
Goodwill	3,412		52		1,953		5,417
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
Total	$	3,116	$	—	$	188	$	3,304

(a)Represents the effects of foreign currency translations.

Other Intangibles

Identifiable intangible assets comprised the following: 

	September 30, 2020						December 31, 2019
In millions	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets
Customer relationships and lists	$	534	$	280	$	254	$	560	$	275	$	285
Tradenames, patents and trademarks, and developed technology	170		113		57		170		102		68
Land and water rights	8		2		6		8		2		6
Software	25		25		—		26		25		1
Other	19		10		9		18		10		8
Total	$	756	$	430	$	326	$	782	$	414	$	368

The Company recognized the following amounts as amortization expense related to intangible assets: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Amortization expense related to intangible assets	$	17	$	15	$	43	$	40

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INCOME TAXES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes [Note Text Block]

International Paper made income tax payments, net of refunds, of $203 million and $245 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Company currently estimates, that as a result of ongoing discussions, pending tax settlements and expirations of statutes of limitations, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced by approximately $70 million during the next 12 months.

The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service has challenged the deductibility of goodwill amortization generated in a 2007 acquisition by International Paper do Brasil Ltda., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company received

assessments for the tax years 2007-2015 totaling approximately $107 million in tax, and $342 million in interest, penalties, and fees as of September 30, 2020 (adjusted for variation in currency exchange rates). After a previous favorable ruling challenging the basis for these assessments, we received other subsequent unfavorable decisions from the Brazilian Administrative Council of Tax Appeals. The Company has appealed and intends to further appeal these and any future unfavorable administrative judgments to the Brazilian federal courts; however, this tax litigation matter may take many years to resolve. The Company believes that it has appropriately evaluated the transaction underlying these assessments, and has concluded based on Brazilian tax law, that its position would be sustained. The Company intends to vigorously defend its position against the current assessments and any similar assessments that may be issued for tax years subsequent to 2015.

On March 27, 2020, the U.S. government enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act ("the CARES Act"). The CARES Act provides various types of economic relief for individuals and businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including temporary corporate tax relief. We currently do not believe there to be a material impact to the income tax provision resulting from the CARES Act.

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COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies [Note Text Block]

Environmental

International Paper has been named as a potentially responsible party (PRP) in environmental remediation actions under various federal and state laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Many of these proceedings involve the cleanup of hazardous substances at large commercial landfills that received waste from many different sources. While joint and several liability is authorized under CERCLA and equivalent state laws, as a practical matter, liability for CERCLA cleanups is typically allocated among the many PRPs. There are other remediation costs typically associated with the cleanup of hazardous substances at the Company’s current, closed or formerly-owned facilities, and recorded as liabilities in the balance sheet.

Remediation costs are recorded in the consolidated financial statements when they become probable and reasonably estimable. International Paper has estimated the probable liability associated with these environmental remediation matters, including those described herein, to be approximately $186 million ($195 million undiscounted) in the aggregate as of September 30, 2020. Other than as described below, completion of required remedial actions is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Cass Lake: One of the matters included above arises out of a closed wood-treatment facility located in Cass Lake, Minnesota. In June 2011, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected and published a proposed soil remedy at the site with an estimated cost of $45 million at September 30, 2020. In April 2020, the EPA issued a final plan concerning clean-up standards at a portion of the site, the estimated cost of which is included within the reserve referenced above. In October 2012, the Natural Resource Trustees for this site provided notice to International Paper and other PRPs of their intent to perform a Natural Resource Damage Assessment. It is premature to predict the outcome of the assessment or to estimate a loss or range of loss, if any, in excess of the applicable reserve referenced above, which may be incurred.

Kalamazoo River: The Company is a PRP with respect to the Allied Paper, Inc./Portage Creek/Kalamazoo River Superfund Site in Michigan. The EPA asserts that the site is contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) primarily as a result of discharges from various paper mills located along the Kalamazoo River, including a paper mill (the Allied Paper Mill) formerly owned by St. Regis Paper Company (St. Regis). The Company is a successor in interest to St. Regis.

•Operable Unit 5, Area 1: In March 2016, the Company and other PRPs received a special notice letter from the EPA (i) inviting participation in implementing a remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 1, and (ii) demanding reimbursement of EPA past costs totaling $37 million, including $19 million in past costs previously demanded by the EPA. The Company responded to the special notice letter. In December 2016, the EPA issued a unilateral administrative order to the Company and other PRPs to perform the remedy. The Company responded to the unilateral administrative order, agreeing to comply with the order subject to its sufficient cause defenses.

•Operable Unit 5, Area 2: In September 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision selecting the final remedy for a portion of the site known as Operable Unit 5, Area 2, but has not yet issued a special notice letter for implementing the remedy.

•Operable Unit 1: In October 2016, the Company and another PRP received a special notice letter from the EPA inviting participation in the remedial design component of the landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill, which is also known as Operable Unit 1. The Record of Decision establishing the final landfill remedy for the Allied Paper Mill was

issued by the EPA in September 2016. The Company responded to the Allied Paper Mill special notice letter in December 2016. In February 2017, the EPA informed the Company that it would make other arrangements for the performance of the remedial design.

In addition, in December 2019, the United States published notice in the Federal Register of a proposed consent decree with NCR Corporation (one of the parties to the allocation/apportionment litigation described below), the State of Michigan and natural resource trustees under which NCR would make payments of more than $100 million and perform work at the Site at an estimated cost of $135.7 million. The public comment period with respect to the proposed consent decree closed in February 2020 and we are awaiting the court's final decision.

The Company’s CERCLA liability has not been finally determined with respect to these or any other portions of the site, and except as noted above, the Company has declined to perform any work or reimburse the EPA at this time. As noted below, the Company is involved in allocation/apportionment litigation with regard to the site. Accordingly, it is premature to predict the outcome or estimate our maximum reasonably possible loss or range of loss with respect to this site. We have recorded a liability for future remediation costs at the site that are probable and reasonably estimable, and it remains reasonably possible that additional losses in excess of this recorded liability could be material.

The Company was named as a defendant by Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP, Fort James Corporation and Georgia Pacific LLC in a contribution and cost recovery action for alleged pollution at the site. NCR Corporation and Weyerhaeuser Company are also named as defendants in the suit. The suit seeks contribution under CERCLA for costs purportedly expended by plaintiffs ($79 million as of the filing of the complaint) and for future remediation costs. In June 2018, the Court issued its Final Judgment and Order, which fixed the past cost amount at approximately $50 million (plus interest to be determined) and allocated to the Company a 15% share of responsibility for those past costs. The Court did not address responsibility for future costs in its decision. In July 2018, the Company and each of the other parties filed notices appealing the Final Judgment and prior orders incorporated into that Judgment. The proposed consent decree by NCR described above, if entered, would result in the termination of NCR's involvement in the appeal.

Harris County: International Paper and McGinnis Industrial Maintenance Corporation (MIMC), a subsidiary of Waste Management, Inc. (WMI), are PRPs at the San Jacinto River Waste Pits Superfund Site in Harris County, Texas. The PRPs have been actively participating in the activities at the site and share the costs of these activities.

In October 2017, the EPA issued a Record of Decision (ROD) selecting the final remedy for the site: removal and relocation of the waste material from both the northern and southern impoundments. The EPA did not specify the methods or practices needed to perform this work. The EPA’s selected remedy was accompanied by a cost estimate of approximately $115 million ($105 million for the northern impoundment, and $10 million for the southern impoundment). Subsequent to the issuance of the ROD, there have been numerous meetings between the EPA and the PRPs, and the Company continues to work with the EPA and MIMC/WMI to develop the remedial design.

To this end, in April 2018, the PRPs entered into an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with the EPA, agreeing to work together to develop the remedial design until April 2021. The AOC does not include any agreement to perform waste removal or other construction activity at the site. Rather, it involves adaptive management techniques and a pre-design investigation, the objectives of which include filling data gaps (including but not limited to post-Hurricane Harvey technical data generated prior to the ROD and not incorporated into the selected remedy), refining areas and volumes of materials to be addressed, determining if an excavation remedy is able to be implemented in a manner protective of human health and the environment, and investigating potential impacts of remediation activities to infrastructure in the vicinity.

During the first quarter of 2020, through a series of meetings among the Company, MIMC/WMI, our consultants, the EPA and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), progress was made to resolve key technical issues previously preventing the Company from determining the manner in which the selected remedy for the northern impoundment would be feasibly implemented. As a result of these developments, as of September 30, 2020, the Company has reserved the following amounts in relation to remediation at this site: (a) $10 million for the southern impoundment; and (b) $55 million for the northern impoundment, which represents the Company's 50% share of our estimate of the low end of the range of probable remediation costs.

Although key technical issues have been resolved, we still face significant challenges remediating the northern impoundment in a cost-efficient manner and without a release to the environment and therefore our discussions with the EPA on the best approach to remediation will continue. Because of ongoing questions regarding cost effectiveness, timing and gathering other technical data, additional losses in excess of our recorded liability are possible. We are currently unable to reasonably estimate

any further adjustment to our recorded liability or any loss or range of loss in excess of such liability; however, we believe it is unlikely any adjustment would be material.

Asbestos-Related Matters

We have been named as a defendant in various asbestos-related personal injury litigation, in both state and federal court, primarily in relation to the prior operations of certain companies previously acquired by the Company. The Company regularly conducts a comprehensive legal review of its asbestos liabilities and reviews recent and historical claims data. During the second quarter of 2020, as previously disclosed, we adjusted our estimated net liability associated with asbestos-related litigation concerning products sold by Champion International Corporation prior to our acquisition of Champion in 2000 to revise the time period associated with anticipated future claims through 2059, a commonly viewed end point when such claims are more predictable. We concluded the adjustment of $43 million to increase this net liability, which resulted in a liability of $75 million, net of estimated insurance recoveries, was not material to any period. As of September 30, 2020, the Company's total recorded liability with respect to pending and future asbestos-related claims was $117 million, net of estimated insurance recoveries. While it is reasonably possible that the Company may incur losses in excess of its recorded liability with respect to asbestos-related matters, we do not believe additional material losses are probable.

Antitrust

Italy: In March 2017, the Italian Competition Authority (ICA) commenced an investigation into the Italian packaging industry to determine whether producers of corrugated sheets and boxes violated the applicable European competition law. In April 2019, the ICA concluded its investigation and issued initial findings alleging that over 30 producers, including our Italian packaging subsidiary (IP Italy), improperly coordinated the production and sale of corrugated sheets and boxes. On August 6, 2019, the ICA issued its decision and assessed IP Italy a fine of €29 million (approximately $32 million at current exchange rates) which was recorded in the third quarter of 2019. However, we are vigorously appealing this decision of the ICA to the Italian courts and have numerous and strong bases for our appeal.

Contract

Signature: In August 2014, a lawsuit captioned Signature Industrial Services LLC et al. v. International Paper Company was filed in state court in Texas. The Signature lawsuit arises out of approximately $1 million in disputed invoices related to the installation of new equipment at the Company's Orange, Texas mill. In addition to the invoices in dispute, Signature and its president allege consequential damages arising from the Company's nonpayment of those invoices. The lawsuit was tried before a jury in Beaumont, Texas, in May 2017. On June 1, 2017, the jury returned a verdict awarding approximately $125 million in damages to the plaintiffs. The Court issued a judgment on December 14, 2017, awarding the plaintiffs a total of approximately $137 million in actual and consequential damages, fees, costs and pre-judgment interest, and awarding post-judgment interest. The Company appealed this judgment and, on April 30, 2020, the Court of Appeals for the Thirteenth District of Texas issued a decision affirming in part and reversing and rendering judgment in favor of the Company in part. The Court affirmed approximately $14.8 million of the judgment. Otherwise, the Court rendered judgment in favor of the Company on the remainder of the jury’s verdict. The Company continues to have strong bases by which to challenge the affirmed portions of the award and has presented those arguments on appeal to the Supreme Court of Texas. The plaintiffs have also appealed the decision of the appellate court. We do not expect that potential losses, if any, related to this lawsuit will be material.

Taxes Other Than Payroll Taxes

In 2017, the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court decided that the state value-added tax (VAT) should not be included in the basis of federal VAT calculations. In 2018 and 2019, the Brazilian tax authorities published both an internal consultation and a normative ruling with a narrow interpretation of the effects of the case. We have determined that any related federal VAT refunds should be recognized when they are both probable and reasonably estimable. Based upon the best information available to us, we have determined that the amount of refund that is probable of being realized is limited to that determined by the tax authorities' narrow interpretation, for which we have recognized a receivable of $11 million as of September 30, 2020. It is possible that future court decisions and guidance from the tax authorities could expand the scope of the federal VAT refunds.

General

The Company is involved in various other inquiries, administrative proceedings and litigation relating to environmental and safety matters, personal injury, product liability, labor and employment, contracts, sales of property, intellectual property, tax, and other matters, some of which allege substantial monetary damages. See Note 14 for details regarding a tax matter. Assessments of lawsuits and claims can involve a series of complex judgments about future events, can rely heavily on

estimates and assumptions, and are otherwise subject to significant uncertainties. As a result, there can be no certainty that the Company will not ultimately incur charges in excess of presently recorded liabilities. The Company believes that loss contingencies arising from pending matters including the matters described herein, will not have a material effect on the consolidated financial position or liquidity of the Company. However, in light of the inherent uncertainties involved in pending or threatened legal matters, some of which are beyond the Company's control, and the large or indeterminate damages sought in some of these matters, a future adverse ruling, settlement, unfavorable development, or increase in accruals with respect to these matters could result in future charges that could be material to the Company's results of operations or cash flows in any particular reporting period.

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VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]

Variable Interest Entity Disclosure

Variable Interest Entities

As of September 30, 2020, the fair value of the Timber Notes and Extension Loans was $4.92 billion and $4.24 billion, respectively, for the 2015 Financing Entities. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

The Timber Notes of $4.85 billion mature in August 2021. The Extension Loans of $4.22 billion mature in November and December of 2020, and we are currently negotiating the extension of these third-party loans to August 2021 and expect to complete the extension before the maturity dates. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are shown in Current nonrecourse financial assets of variable interest entities and Current nonrecourse financial liabilities of variable interest entities, respectively, on the accompanying balance sheet.

Failure to extend these third-party loans to August 2021 prior to their respective maturity dates in November and December of 2020 could necessitate a disposition of the installment notes to facilitate the $4.22 billion debt payment. We are confident we would be able to dispose of the installment notes, if necessary.

Activity between the Company and the 2015 Financing Entities was as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	24	$	24	$	71	$	71
Expense (a)	32		32		96		96
Cash receipts (b)	48		48		95		95
Cash payments (c)	64		64		128		128

(a)The revenue and expense are included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations.

(b)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash payments represent interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

As of September 30, 2020, the fair value of the Timber Notes and Extension Loans was $2.29 billion and $2.12 billion, respectively, for the 2007 Financing Entities. The Timber Notes and Extension Loans are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Activity between the Company and the 2007 Financing Entities was as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	7	$	19	$	35	$	61
Expense (b)	8		19		36		60
Cash receipts (c)	5		16		28		48
Cash payments (d)	8		17		34		53

(a)The revenue is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $5 million and $14 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion income for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(b)The expense is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $2 million and $5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion expense for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(d)The cash payments are interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

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DEBT (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt [Note Text Block]

The borrowing capacity of the Company's commercial paper program is $1.0 billion. Under the terms of the program, individual maturities on borrowings may vary, but not exceed one year from the date of issue. Interest bearing notes may be issued either as fixed or floating rate notes. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had $140 million of borrowings outstanding under the program at weighted-average interest rate of 0.17%.

In March 2020, the Company entered into a $750 million contractually committed 364-day revolving credit agreement with a syndicate of banks and other financial institutions which augments the Company's access to liquidity due to current macroeconomic conditions and supplements the Company's $1.5 billion five-year credit agreement. In October 2020, the company extended the expiration date of the $1.5 billion credit agreement from December 2021 to December 2022. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under either the $750 million revolving credit agreement or the $1.5 billion credit agreement.

In April 2020, the Company's receivable securitization program was amended from an uncommitted financing arrangement to a committed financing arrangement with a borrowing limit up to $550 million based on eligible receivable balances that expires in April 2022. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under the program.

In July 2020, International Paper refinanced $122 million of industrial development bonds that now have interest rates ranging from 1.38% to 1.60% and maturity dates in 2025.

As a result of a debt tender offer in September 2020, the Company economically retired $700 million of corporate bonds with interest rates ranging from 3.00% to 3.80% and maturity dates ranging from 2024 to 2027. This is in addition to the August 2020 economical debt extinguishment of $203 million of corporate bonds with an interest rate of 7.50% due in 2021 and brings the full year-to-date debt reductions related to the 2021 bonds to $406 million.

The Company’s financial covenants require the maintenance of a minimum net worth, as defined in our debt agreements, of $9 billion and a total debt-to-capital ratio of less than 60%. Net worth is defined as the sum of common stock, paid-in capital and retained earnings, less treasury stock plus any cumulative goodwill impairment charges. The calculation also excludes accumulated other comprehensive income/loss and both the current and long-term Nonrecourse Financial Liabilities of Variable Interest Entities. The total debt-to-capital ratio is defined as total debt divided by the sum of total debt plus net worth. As of September 30, 2020, we were in compliance with our debt covenants.

At September 30, 2020, the fair value of International Paper’s $8.7 billion of debt was approximately $10.7 billion. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues. International Paper’s long-term debt is classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy, which is further defined in Note 17 in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivatives and Hedging Activities [Note Text Block]

As a multinational company International Paper is exposed to market risks, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates and commodity prices.

The notional amounts of qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	245	$	407
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		700
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		475
Foreign exchange contracts	50		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	12		16
Foreign exchange contracts	—		7

During the first quarter of 2020, International Paper terminated its interest rate contracts in fair value hedging relationships. These contracts had a notional value of $700 million and an approximate fair value of $85 million at the time of termination. Subsequent to the termination of the interest rate swaps, the fair value basis adjustment is accounted for as a debt premium for the previously hedged debt. During the first and second quarter of 2020, International Paper also terminated interest rate contracts in net investment hedging relationships with a notional value of $475 million. These contracts had an approximate fair value of $33 million at the time of termination. Subsequent to the termination of the net investment hedges, the fair value is accounted for in other comprehensive income as cumulative translation adjustment for the previously hedged net investments.

The following table shows gains or losses recognized in AOCI, net of tax, related to derivative instruments: 

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Total	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15
Total	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15

During the next 12 months, the amount of the September 30, 2020 AOCI balance, after tax, that is expected to be reclassified to earnings is a loss of $4 million.

The amounts of gains and losses recognized in the statement of operations on qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

	Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)								Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)	Cost of products sold
Total	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)

	Gain (Loss) Recognized								Location of Gain (Loss) In  Statement of Operations
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	11	$	38	$	42	Interest expense, net
Debt	—		(11)		(38)		(42)		Interest expense, net
Total	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—	Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses
Total	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	$	1	$	(5)	$	(2)	$	—	Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange contracts	—		(1)		—		(2)		Cost of products sold
Total	$	1	$	(6)	$	(2)	$	(2)

Fair Value Measurements

The Company has not changed its valuation techniques for measuring the fair value of any financial assets or liabilities during the year. Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the end of the reporting period.

The following table provides a summary of the impact of our derivative instruments in the balance sheet:

Fair Value Measurements

Level 2 – Significant Other Observable Inputs

	Assets						Liabilities
In millions	September 30, 2020			December 31, 2019			September 30, 2020			December 31, 2019
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts – cash flow	$	2		$	10		$	16		$	4
Interest rate contracts - net investment	—			11			—			—
Interest rate contracts - fair value	—			47			—			—
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	2			68			16			4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Electricity contract	—			—			—			2
Foreign exchange contracts	—			—			—			1
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	—			—			—			3
Total derivatives	$	2	(a)	$	68	(b)	$	16	(c)	$	7	(d)

(a)Included in Other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(b)Includes $14 million recorded in Other current assets and $54 million recorded in Deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(c)Includes $14 million recorded in Other current liabilities and $2 million recorded in Other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

(d)Included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

The above contracts are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that provide rights of offset with each counterparty when amounts are payable on the same date in the same currency or in the case of certain specified defaults. Management has made an accounting policy election to not offset the fair value of recognized derivative assets and derivative liabilities in the

balance sheet. The amounts owed to the counterparties and owed to the Company are considered immaterial with respect to each counterparty and in the aggregate with all counterparties.

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RETIREMENT PLANS (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Retirement Plans [Note Text Block]

International Paper sponsors and maintains the Retirement Plan of International Paper Company (the Pension Plan), a tax-qualified defined benefit pension plan that provides retirement benefits to substantially all U.S. salaried and hourly and union employees who work at a participating business unit.

The Pension Plan provides defined pension benefits based on years of credited service and either final average earnings (salaried employees and hourly employees receiving salaried benefits), hourly job rates or specified benefit rates (hourly and union employees).

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company froze participation, including credited service and compensation, for salaried employees under the Pension Plan, the Pension Restoration Plan and the SERP plan. This change does not affect benefits accrued through December 31, 2018. For service after December 31, 2018, employees affected by the freeze receive a company contribution to their individual Retirement Savings Account.

Net periodic pension expense for our qualified and nonqualified U.S. defined benefit plans comprised the following: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Service cost	$	21	$	17	$	64	$	51
Interest cost	98		110		294		330
Expected return on plan assets	(167)		(158)		(501)		(473)
Actuarial loss	51		50		152		150
Amortization of prior service cost	5		4		15		12
Net periodic pension expense	$	8	$	23	$	24	$	70

The components of net periodic pension expense other than the Service cost component are included in Non-operating pension expense in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The Company’s funding policy for our pension plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet legal funding requirements, plus any additional amounts that the Company may determine to be appropriate considering the funded status of the plan, tax deductibility, the cash flows generated by the Company, and other factors. The Company made no voluntary cash contributions to the qualified pension plan in the first nine months of 2020 or 2019. The nonqualified defined benefit plans are funded to the extent of benefit payments, which totaled $22 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020.

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STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]

Stock-based Compensation [Note Text Block]

International Paper has an Incentive Compensation Plan (ICP) which is administered by the Management Development and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (the Committee). The ICP authorizes the grants of restricted stock, restricted or deferred stock units, performance awards payable in cash or stock upon the attainment of specified performance goals, dividend equivalents, stock options, stock appreciation rights, other stock-based awards and cash-based awards at the discretion of the Committee. As of September 30, 2020, 8.4 million shares were available for grant under the ICP.

Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Total stock-based compensation expense (selling and administrative)	$	17	$	31	$	48	$	94
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation	1		(2)		18		31

At September 30, 2020, $85 million, net of estimated forfeitures, of compensation cost related to unvested restricted performance shares, executive continuity awards and restricted stock attributable to future service had not yet been recognized. This amount will be recognized in expense over a weighted-average period of 1.7 years.

Performance Share Plan

During the first nine months of 2020, the Company granted 2.2 million performance units at an average grant date fair value of $49.15.

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INDUSTRY SEGMENT INFORMATION (Note)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]

International Paper’s business segments, Industrial Packaging, Global Cellulose Fibers and Printing Papers, are consistent with the internal structure used to manage these businesses. All segments are differentiated on a common product, common customer basis consistent with the business segmentation generally used in the Forest Products industry.

Business segment operating profits are used by International Paper's management to measure the earnings performance of its businesses. Management believes that this measure allows a better understanding of trends in costs, operating efficiencies, prices and volumes. Business segment operating profits are defined as earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings, but including the impact of noncontrolling interests, excluding interest expense, net, corporate items, net, corporate net special items, business net special items and non-operating pension expense. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company changed its measure of business segment operating profits to exclude items considered by management to be unusual (business net special items) from the normal operations of the business segment. As a result, all prior periods have been restated to reflect the current measure.

Net sales by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	3,768	$	3,820	$	11,220	$	11,516
Global Cellulose Fibers	564		624		1,737		1,974
Printing Papers	743		1,071		2,234		3,224
Corporate and Intersegment Sales	48		53		150		164
Net Sales	$	5,123	$	5,568	$	15,341	$	16,878

Operating profit (loss) by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	469	$	535	$	1,388	$	1,471
Global Cellulose Fibers	(59)		4		(123)		39
Printing Papers	63		162		148		420
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings	$	282	$	452	$	527	$	1,204
Interest expense, net	112		123		345		378
Noncontrolling interests adjustment	—		2		—		4
Corporate expenses, net	(20)		21		9		45
Corporate net special items	108		48		195		48
Business net special items	2		46		368		224
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(31)		27
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930

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REVENUE RECOGNITION (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]

A geographic disaggregation of revenues across our company segmentation in the following tables provides information to assist in evaluating the nature, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows and how they may be impacted by economic factors.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,169	$	479	$	362	$	44	$	4,054
EMEA	394		59		244		(3)		694
Pacific Rim and Asia	15		26		6		10		57
Americas, other than U.S.	190		—		131		(3)		318
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,351	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,351
EMEA Industrial Packaging	306		—		—		—		306
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	52		—		—		—		52
European Coated Paperboard	90		—		—		—		90
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		564		—		—		564
North American Printing Papers	—		—		362		—		362
Brazilian Papers	—		—		150		—		150
European Papers	—		—		232		—		232
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(31)		—		(1)		—		(32)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		48		48
Total	$	3,768	$	564	$	743	$	48	$	5,123

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate and Inter-segment Sales		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,364	$	1,507	$	1,069	$	146	$	12,086
EMEA	1,213		175		765		(11)		2,142
Pacific Rim and Asia	43		55		20		20		138
Americas, other than U.S.	600		—		380		(5)		975
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	9,947	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	9,947
EMEA Industrial Packaging	953		—		—		—		953
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	148		—		—		—		148
European Coated Paperboard	266		—		—		—		266
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,737		—		—		1,737
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,073		—		1,073
Brazilian Papers	—		—		434		—		434
European Papers	—		—		728		—		728
Indian Papers	—		—		—		—		—
Intra-segment Eliminations	(94)		—		(1)		—		(95)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		150		150
Total	$	11,220	$	1,737	$	2,234	$	150	$	15,341

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	3,180	$	535	$	486	$	56	$	4,257
EMEA	415		62		315		(1)		791
Pacific Rim and Asia	20		27		47		3		97
Americas, other than U.S.	205		—		223		(5)		423
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	3,368	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	3,368
EMEA Industrial Packaging	324		—		—		—		324
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	61		—		—		—		61
European Coated Paperboard	92		—		—		—		92
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		624		—		—		624
North American Printing Papers	—		—		492		—		492
Brazilian Papers	—		—		247		—		247
European Papers	—		—		299		—		299
Indian Papers	—		—		38		—		38
Intra-segment Eliminations	(25)		—		(5)		—		(30)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		53		53
Total	$	3,820	$	624	$	1,071	$	53	$	5,568

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Corporate & Intersegment		Total
Primary Geographical Markets (a)
United States	$	9,531	$	1,656	$	1,448	$	174	$	12,809
EMEA	1,263		207		986		(8)		2,448
Pacific Rim and Asia	50		111		167		9		337
Americas, other than U.S.	672		—		623		(11)		1,284
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878
Operating Segments
North American Industrial Packaging	$	10,158	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	10,158
EMEA Industrial Packaging	994		—		—		—		994
Brazilian Industrial Packaging	176		—		—		—		176
European Coated Paperboard	275		—		—		—		275
Global Cellulose Fibers	—		1,974		—		—		1,974
North American Printing Papers	—		—		1,474		—		1,474
Brazilian Papers	—		—		702		—		702
European Papers	—		—		929		—		929
Indian Papers	—		—		144		—		144
Intra-segment Eliminations	(87)		—		(25)		—		(112)
Corporate & Inter-segment Sales	—		—		—		164		164
Total	$	11,516	$	1,974	$	3,224	$	164	$	16,878

(a) Net sales are attributed to countries based on the location of the seller.

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EQUITY (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Equity [Abstract]

Schedule of Stockholders' Equity [Table Text Block]

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,283	$	8,123	$	(5,149)	$	2,649	$	7,057	$	3	$	7,060
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		18		—		—		(2)		20		—		20
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		1		(1)		—		(1)
Common stock dividends ($0.5125 per share)	—		—		(205)		—		—		(205)		—		(205)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		1		—		—		—		1		—		1
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		204		17		—		221		—		221
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,297	$	8,408	$	(4,739)	$	2,702	$	7,713	$	5	$	7,718
Adoption of ASU 2016-13 measurement of credit losses on financial instruments	—		—		(2)		—		—		(2)		—		(2)
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(31)		—		—		(96)		65		—		65
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		42		(42)		—		(42)
Common stock dividends ($1.5375 per share)	—		—		(613)		—		—		(613)		—		(613)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		36		—		—		—		36		—		36
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		329		(393)		—		(64)		(2)		(66)
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,302	$	8,122	$	(5,132)	$	2,648	$	7,093	$	3	$	7,096

	Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, July 1	$	449	$	6,229	$	8,302	$	(4,870)	$	2,628	$	7,482	$	17	$	7,499
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		32		—		—		(1)		33		—		33
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		75		(75)		—		(75)
Common stock dividends ($0.5000 per share)	—		—		(199)		—		—		(199)		—		(199)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		—		—		—		—		—		—		—
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		344		(144)		—		200		(2)		198
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
In millions, except per share amounts	Common Stock Issued		Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost		Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity		Noncontrolling Interests		Total Equity
Balance, January 1	$	449	$	6,280	$	7,465	$	(4,500)	$	2,332	$	7,362	$	21	$	7,383
Adoption of ASU 2018-02 reclassification of stranded tax effects resulting from Tax Reform	—		—		529		(529)		—		—		—		—
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	—		(52)		—		—		(165)		113		—		113
Repurchase of stock	—		—		—		—		535		(535)		—		(535)
Common stock dividends ($1.5000 per share)	—		—		(607)		—		—		(607)		—		(607)
Transactions of equity method investees	—		33		—		—		—		33		—		33
Comprehensive income (loss)	—		—		1,060		15		—		1,075		(6)		1,069
Ending Balance, September 30	$	449	$	6,261	$	8,447	$	(5,014)	$	2,702	$	7,441	$	15	$	7,456

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OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Equity [Abstract]

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

The following table presents changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	$	(2,192)	$	(2,362)	$	(2,277)	$	(1,916)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(527)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	43		41		128		122
Balance at end of period	(2,149)		(2,321)		(2,149)		(2,321)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Balance at beginning of period	(2,950)		(2,508)		(2,465)		(2,581)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(28)		(179)		(515)		(110)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	—		—		—		4
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	—		—		2		—
Balance at end of period	(2,978)		(2,687)		(2,978)		(2,687)
Net Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedging Derivatives
Balance at beginning of period	(7)		—		3		(3)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(4)		(10)		(34)		(6)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		(2)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	6		4		26		5
Balance at end of period	(5)		(6)		(5)		(6)
Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) at End of Period	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)	$	(5,132)	$	(5,014)

Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]

The following table presents details of the reclassifications out of AOCI for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019:

In millions:	Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income									Location of Amount Reclassified from AOCI
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2020		2019		2020		2019
Defined benefit pension and postretirement items:
Prior-service costs	$	(5)	$	(4)	$	(15)	$	(10)	(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Actuarial gains (losses)	(52)		(50)		(155)		(152)		(a)	Non-operating pension expense
Total pre-tax amount	(57)		(54)		(170)		(162)
Tax (expense) benefit	14		13		42		40
Net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		(122)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		527			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(43)		(41)		(128)		405
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments:
Business acquisitions/divestitures	—		—		—		(4)			Cost of products sold
Tax (expense) benefit	—		—		—		—
Net of tax	—		—		—		(4)
Net gains and losses on cash flow hedging derivatives:
Foreign exchange contracts	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)		(b)	Cost of products sold
Total pre-tax amount	(8)		(6)		(39)		(7)
Tax (expense)/benefit	2		2		13		2
Net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(5)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects	—		—		—		2			Retained Earnings
Total, net of tax	(6)		(4)		(26)		(3)
Total reclassifications for the period	$	(49)	$	(45)	$	(154)	$	398

(a)These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 19 for additional details).

(b)This accumulated other comprehensive income component is included in our derivatives and hedging activities (see Note 18 for additional details).

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EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]

A reconciliation of the amounts included in the computation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share is as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions, except per share amounts	2020		2019		2020		2019
Earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders	$	204	$	344	$	329	$	1,060
Weighted average common shares outstanding	393.1		392.6		392.9		396.3
Effect of dilutive securities
Restricted performance share plan	1.5		2.8		1.6		3.3
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6		395.4		394.5		399.6
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.88	$	0.84	$	2.67
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to International Paper Company Common Shareholders	$	0.52	$	0.87	$	0.83	$	2.65

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ACQUISITIONS (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the final fair value assigned to assets and liabilities acquired as of June 28, 2019:

In millions
Cash and temporary investments	$	2
Accounts and notes receivable	22
Inventory	8
Plants, properties and equipment	37
Goodwill	27
Intangible assets	14
Right of use assets	3
Deferred charges and other assets	2
Total assets acquired	$	115
Short-term debt	$	2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17
Other current liabilities	5
Deferred income taxes	4
Long-term debt	1
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligation	3
Long-term lease obligations	2
Total liabilities assumed	34
Net assets acquired	$	81

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DIVESTITURES (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]

The following summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities of this business reconciled to total Assets held for sale and total Liabilities held for sale in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

In millions	September 30, 2020
Cash and temporary investments	$	11
Accounts and notes receivable	41
Inventories	22
Other current assets	1
Plants, properties and equipment (net of impairment)	28
Deferred charges and other assets	11
Total Assets Held for Sale	$	114
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	36
Deferred income taxes	3
Other liabilities	8
Impairment reserve (cumulative foreign currency translation)	329
Total Liabilities Held for Sale	$	376

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]

Accounts and Notes Receivable

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Accounts and notes receivable, net:
Trade	$	2,789	$	3,020
Other	245		260
Total	$	3,034	$	3,280

Inventories [Table Text Block]

Inventories 

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Raw materials	$	257	$	298
Finished pulp, paper and packaging	1,023		1,192
Operating supplies	638		659
Other	89		59
Total	$	2,007	$	2,208

Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block]

Amounts related to interest were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Interest expense	$	148	$	177	$	467	$	538
Interest income	36		54		122		160
Capitalized interest costs	9		7		27		21

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LEASES (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Leases [Abstract]

Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related to Leases [Table Text Block]

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related to Leases

In millions	Classification	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Assets
Operating lease assets	Right-of-use assets	$	422	$	434
Finance lease assets	Plants, properties and equipment, net (a)	95		103
Total leased assets		$	517	$	537
Liabilities
Current
Operating	Other current liabilities	$	137	$	134
Finance	Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	12		12
Noncurrent
Operating	Long-term lease obligations	290		304
Finance	Long-term debt	83		88
Total lease liabilities		$	522	$	538

(a)Finance leases are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $49 million and $40 million as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

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EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Graphic Packaging LLC [Member]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information for GPIP is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	2,013	$	1,796
Noncurrent assets	5,662		5,482
Current liabilities	1,692		1,178
Noncurrent liabilities	3,617		3,244

Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	1,698	$	1,581	$	4,908	$	4,640
Gross profit	255		266		838		820
Income from continuing operations	89		83		146		283
Net income	89		83		146		283

Ilim Holding

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]

Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]

Summarized financial information for Ilim is presented in the following tables:

Balance Sheet

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Current assets	$	592	$	804
Noncurrent assets	2,442		2,813
Current liabilities	613		1,015
Noncurrent liabilities	2,015		1,844
Noncontrolling interests	13		16

Income Statement

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Net sales	$	498	$	479	$	1,474	$	1,692
Gross profit	191		196		597		836
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(62)		41		7		388
Net income (loss)	(60)		40		7		375

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GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Changes in Goodwill Balances [Table Text Block]

The following table presents changes in goodwill balances as allocated to each business segment for the nine-months ended September 30, 2020: 

In millions	Industrial Packaging		Global Cellulose Fibers		Printing Papers		Total
Balance as of January 1, 2020
Goodwill	$	3,410	$	52	$	1,998	$	5,460
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
	3,114		—		233		3,347
Currency translation and other (a)	1		—		(45)		(44)
Goodwill additions/reductions	1		—		—		1
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions	—		—		—		—
Balance as of September 30, 2020
Goodwill	3,412		52		1,953		5,417
Accumulated impairment losses	(296)		(52)		(1,765)		(2,113)
Total	$	3,116	$	—	$	188	$	3,304

(a)Represents the effects of foreign currency translations.

Finite and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

Identifiable intangible assets comprised the following: 

	September 30, 2020						December 31, 2019
In millions	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Intangible Assets
Customer relationships and lists	$	534	$	280	$	254	$	560	$	275	$	285
Tradenames, patents and trademarks, and developed technology	170		113		57		170		102		68
Land and water rights	8		2		6		8		2		6
Software	25		25		—		26		25		1
Other	19		10		9		18		10		8
Total	$	756	$	430	$	326	$	782	$	414	$	368

Amortization Expense of Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]

The Company recognized the following amounts as amortization expense related to intangible assets: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Amortization expense related to intangible assets	$	17	$	15	$	43	$	40

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VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]

Activity Between Company And Entities [Table Text Block]

Activity between the Company and the 2015 Financing Entities was as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	24	$	24	$	71	$	71
Expense (a)	32		32		96		96
Cash receipts (b)	48		48		95		95
Cash payments (c)	64		64		128		128

(a)The revenue and expense are included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations.

(b)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash payments represent interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

Activity between the Company and the 2007 Financing Entities was as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Revenue (a)	$	7	$	19	$	35	$	61
Expense (b)	8		19		36		60
Cash receipts (c)	5		16		28		48
Cash payments (d)	8		17		34		53

(a)The revenue is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $5 million and $14 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion income for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(b)The expense is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $2 million and $5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion expense for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

(c)The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

(d)The cash payments are interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Notional Amounts of Financial Instruments [Table Text Block]

The notional amounts of qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

In millions	September 30, 2020		December 31, 2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	245	$	407
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		700
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	—		475
Foreign exchange contracts	50		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	12		16
Foreign exchange contracts	—		7

Gains Or Losses Recognized In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI), Net Of Tax, Related To Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]

The following table shows gains or losses recognized in AOCI, net of tax, related to derivative instruments: 

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Total	$	(4)	$	(10)	$	(34)	$	(6)
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15
Total	$	—	$	18	$	24	$	15

Gains And Losses Recognized In Consolidated Statement Of Operations On Qualifying And Non-Qualifying Financial Instruments [Table Text Block]

The amounts of gains and losses recognized in the statement of operations on qualifying and non-qualifying financial instruments used in hedging transactions were as follows:

	Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)								Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI (Effective Portion)
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)	Cost of products sold
Total	$	(6)	$	(4)	$	(26)	$	(5)

	Gain (Loss) Recognized								Location of Gain (Loss) In  Statement of Operations
	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Derivatives in Fair Value Hedging Relationships:
Interest rate contracts	$	—	$	11	$	38	$	42	Interest expense, net
Debt	—		(11)		(38)		(42)		Interest expense, net
Total	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
Derivatives in Net Investment Hedging Relationships:
Foreign exchange contracts	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—	Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses
Total	$	1	$	—	$	2	$	—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
Electricity contract	$	1	$	(5)	$	(2)	$	—	Cost of products sold
Foreign exchange contracts	—		(1)		—		(2)		Cost of products sold
Total	$	1	$	(6)	$	(2)	$	(2)

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RETIREMENT PLANS (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Net Periodic Pension Expense for Qualified and Nonqualified U.S. Defined Benefit Plans [Table Text Block]

Net periodic pension expense for our qualified and nonqualified U.S. defined benefit plans comprised the following: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Service cost	$	21	$	17	$	64	$	51
Interest cost	98		110		294		330
Expected return on plan assets	(167)		(158)		(501)		(473)
Actuarial loss	51		50		152		150
Amortization of prior service cost	5		4		15		12
Net periodic pension expense	$	8	$	23	$	24	$	70

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STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]

Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Income Tax Benefits [Table Text Block]

Stock-based compensation expense and related income tax benefits were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Total stock-based compensation expense (selling and administrative)	$	17	$	31	$	48	$	94
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation	1		(2)		18		31

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INDUSTRY SEGMENT INFORMATION (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2020

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment [Table Text Block]

Net sales by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	3,768	$	3,820	$	11,220	$	11,516
Global Cellulose Fibers	564		624		1,737		1,974
Printing Papers	743		1,071		2,234		3,224
Corporate and Intersegment Sales	48		53		150		164
Net Sales	$	5,123	$	5,568	$	15,341	$	16,878

Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block]

Operating profit (loss) by business segment for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
In millions	2020		2019		2020		2019
Industrial Packaging	$	469	$	535	$	1,388	$	1,471
Global Cellulose Fibers	(59)		4		(123)		39
Printing Papers	63		162		148		420
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings	$	282	$	452	$	527	$	1,204
Interest expense, net	112		123		345		378
Noncontrolling interests adjustment	—		2		—		4
Corporate expenses, net	(20)		21		9		45
Corporate net special items	108		48		195		48
Business net special items	2		46		368		224
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)		9		(31)		27
Business Segment Operating Profits	$	473	$	701	$	1,413	$	1,930

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RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle	$ (2)

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REVENUE RECOGNITION Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 5,123	$ 5,568	$ 15,341	$ 16,878
North American Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,351	3,368	9,947	10,158
EMEA Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	306	324	953	994
Brazilian Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	52	61	148	176
European Coated Paperboard
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	90	92	266	275
Global Cellulose Fibers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
North American Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	362	492	1,073	1,474
Brazilian Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	150	247	434	702
European Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	232	299	728	929
Indian Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	0	38	0	144
United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	4,054	4,257	12,086	12,809
EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	694	791	2,142	2,448
Pacific Rim and Asia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	57	97	138	337
Americas, other than U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	318	423	975	1,284
Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,768	3,820	11,220	11,516
Industrial Packaging | North American Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,351	3,368	9,947	10,158
Industrial Packaging | EMEA Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	306	324	953	994
Industrial Packaging | Brazilian Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	52	61	148	176
Industrial Packaging | European Coated Paperboard
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	90	92	266	275
Industrial Packaging | United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,169	3,180	9,364	9,531
Industrial Packaging | EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	394	415	1,213	1,263
Industrial Packaging | Pacific Rim and Asia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	15	20	43	50
Industrial Packaging | Americas, other than U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	190	205	600	672
Global Cellulose Fibers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
Global Cellulose Fibers | Global Cellulose Fibers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
Global Cellulose Fibers | United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	479	535	1,507	1,656
Global Cellulose Fibers | EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	59	62	175	207
Global Cellulose Fibers | Pacific Rim and Asia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	26	27	55	111
Global Cellulose Fibers | Americas, other than U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	0	0	0	0
Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	743	1,071	2,234	3,224
Printing Papers | North American Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	362	492	1,073	1,474
Printing Papers | Brazilian Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	150	247	434	702
Printing Papers | European Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	232	299	728	929
Printing Papers | Indian Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	0	38	0	144
Printing Papers | United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	362	486	1,069	1,448
Printing Papers | EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	244	315	765	986
Printing Papers | Pacific Rim and Asia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	6	47	20	167
Printing Papers | Americas, other than U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	131	223	380	623
Operating Segments [Member] | Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,768	3,820	11,220	11,516
Operating Segments [Member] | Global Cellulose Fibers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
Operating Segments [Member] | Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	743	1,071	2,234	3,224
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	(32)	(30)	(95)	(112)
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	(31)	(25)	(94)	(87)
Intersegment Eliminations [Member] | Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	(1)	(5)	(1)	(25)
Geography Eliminations [Member] | Industrial Packaging
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	3,768	3,820	11,220	11,516
Geography Eliminations [Member] | Global Cellulose Fibers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
Geography Eliminations [Member] | Printing Papers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	743	1,071	2,234	3,224
Consolidation, Eliminations
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	48	53	150	164
Consolidation, Eliminations | United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	44	56	146	174
Consolidation, Eliminations | EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	(3)	(1)	(11)	(8)
Consolidation, Eliminations | Pacific Rim and Asia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	10	3	20	9
Consolidation, Eliminations | Americas, other than U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Net sales	$ (3)	$ (5)	$ (5)	$ (11)

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REVENUE RECOGNITION Contract Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contract with Customer, Liability, Current	$ 20	$ 56

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EQUITY (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Beginning Balance	$ 7,060,000,000	$ 7,718,000,000	$ 7,499,000,000	$ 7,383,000,000	$ 7,718,000,000	$ 7,383,000,000
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	7,093,000,000				7,093,000,000			$ 7,713,000,000
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	20,000,000		33,000,000		65,000,000	113,000,000
Repurchase of stock	(1,000,000)		(75,000,000)		(42,000,000)	(535,000,000)
Common stock dividends	(205,000,000)		(199,000,000)		(613,000,000)	(607,000,000)
Transactions of equity method investees	1,000,000		0		36,000,000	33,000,000
Comprehensive income (loss), portion attributable to noncontrolling interest	0		0		(2,000,000)	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	221,000,000		198,000,000		(66,000,000)	1,069,000,000
Stockholders' equity attributable to noncontrolling interest	3,000,000				3,000,000			5,000,000
Ending Balance	7,096,000,000		7,456,000,000		7,096,000,000	7,456,000,000
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Financial Instruments, Credit Losses, Impact on Retained Earnings		(2,000,000)
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2018-02
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect				0
Common Stock Issued
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	449,000,000		449,000,000		449,000,000	449,000,000	$ 449,000,000	449,000,000	$ 449,000,000	$ 449,000,000
Paid-in Capital
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	6,302,000,000		6,261,000,000		6,302,000,000	6,261,000,000	6,283,000,000	6,297,000,000	6,229,000,000	6,280,000,000
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	18,000,000		32,000,000		(31,000,000)	(52,000,000)
Transactions of equity method investees	1,000,000		0		36,000,000	33,000,000
Retained Earnings
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	8,122,000,000		8,447,000,000		8,122,000,000	8,447,000,000	8,123,000,000	8,408,000,000	8,302,000,000	7,465,000,000
Common stock dividends	(205,000,000)		(199,000,000)		(613,000,000)	(607,000,000)
Comprehensive income (loss)	204,000,000		344,000,000		329,000,000	1,060,000,000
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Financial Instruments, Credit Losses, Impact on Retained Earnings		(2,000,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2018-02
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect				529,000,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	(5,132,000,000)		(5,014,000,000)		(5,132,000,000)	(5,014,000,000)	(5,149,000,000)	(4,739,000,000)	(4,870,000,000)	(4,500,000,000)
Comprehensive income (loss)	17,000,000		(144,000,000)		(393,000,000)	15,000,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2018-02
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Reclassification from AOCI to Retained Earnings, Tax Effect				$ (529,000,000)
Common Stock Held In Treasury, At Cost
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	2,648,000,000		2,702,000,000		2,648,000,000	2,702,000,000	2,649,000,000	2,702,000,000	2,628,000,000	2,332,000,000
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	(2,000,000)		(1,000,000)		(96,000,000)	(165,000,000)
Repurchase of stock	1,000,000		75,000,000		42,000,000	535,000,000
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	7,093,000,000		7,441,000,000		7,093,000,000	7,441,000,000	7,057,000,000	7,713,000,000	7,482,000,000	7,362,000,000
Issuance of stock for various plans, net	20,000,000		33,000,000		65,000,000	113,000,000
Repurchase of stock	(1,000,000)		(75,000,000)		(42,000,000)	(535,000,000)
Common stock dividends	(205,000,000)		(199,000,000)		(613,000,000)	(607,000,000)
Transactions of equity method investees	1,000,000		0		36,000,000	33,000,000
Comprehensive income (loss)	221,000,000		200,000,000		(64,000,000)	1,075,000,000
Total International Paper Shareholders’ Equity | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Financial Instruments, Credit Losses, Impact on Retained Earnings		$ (2,000,000)
Noncontrolling Interests
Comprehensive income (loss), portion attributable to noncontrolling interest	0		(2,000,000)		(2,000,000)	(6,000,000)
Stockholders' equity attributable to noncontrolling interest	$ 3,000,000		$ 15,000,000		$ 3,000,000	$ 15,000,000	$ 3,000,000	$ 5,000,000	$ 17,000,000	$ 21,000,000

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EQUITY Phantom (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.5125	$ 0.5000	$ 1.5375	$ 1.5000

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OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance			$ (4,739)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	$ 49	$ 45	154	$ (398)
Ending Balance	(5,132)	(5,014)	(5,132)	(5,014)
Defined Benefit Pension and Postretirement Items (a)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	(2,192)	(2,362)	(2,277)	(1,916)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects - Defined benefit pension and postretirement adjustments	0	0	0	(527)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	43	41	128	122
Ending Balance	(2,149)	(2,321)	(2,149)	(2,321)
Change in Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (a)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	(2,950)	(2,508)	(2,465)	(2,581)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(28)	(179)	(515)	(110)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	0	0	0	4
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	0	2	0
Ending Balance	(2,978)	(2,687)	(2,978)	(2,687)
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	(7)	0	3	(3)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects - Defined benefit pension and postretirement adjustments	0	0	0	(2)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(4)	(10)	(34)	(6)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	6	4	26	5
Ending Balance	$ (5)	$ (6)	$ (5)	$ (6)

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OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Schedule of Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Tax (expense)/benefit		$ (50)	$ (137)	$ (211)	$ (371)
Total reclassifications for the period		(49)	(45)	(154)	398
Prior-service costs
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax	[1]	(5)	(4)	(15)	(10)
Actuarial gains (losses)
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax	[1]	(52)	(50)	(155)	(152)
Accumulated defined benefit plans adjustment including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax		(57)	(54)	(170)	(162)
Tax (expense)/benefit		14	13	42	40
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		(43)	(41)	(128)	(122)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Total, Net of Tax		(43)	(41)	(128)	405
Reclassification of stranded tax effects
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Tax cut and jobs act reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings pension and postretirement benefit plans, before tax		0	0	0	527
Total reclassifications for the period		(43)	(41)	(128)	(122)
Accumulated foreign currency adjustment including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax		0	0	0	(4)
Tax (expense)/benefit		0	0	0	0
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		0	0	0	(4)
Accumulated net gain (loss) from cash flow hedges including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax		(8)	(6)	(39)	(7)
Tax (expense)/benefit		2	2	13	2
Accumulated net gain (loss) from cash flow hedges including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest | Foreign Exchange Contract
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income, current period, before tax	[2]	(8)	(6)	(39)	(7)
Net gains and loses on cash flow hedging derivatives
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		(6)	(4)	(26)	(5)
Tax cut and jobs act reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings pension and postretirement benefit plans, before tax		0	0	0	2
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Total, Net of Tax		(6)	(4)	(26)	(3)
Total reclassifications for the period		$ (6)	$ (4)	$ (26)	$ (5)

[1] These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost (see Note 19 for additional details).

[2] This accumulated other comprehensive income component is included in our derivatives and hedging activities (see Note 18 for additional details).

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EARNINGS PER SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO INTERNATIONAL PAPER COMPANY COMMON SHAREHOLDERS (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper Company common shareholders	$ 204	$ 344	$ 329	$ 1,060
Weighted average common shares outstanding	393.1	392.6	392.9	396.3
Restricted performance share plan	1.5	2.8	1.6	3.3
Weighted average common shares outstanding – assuming dilution	394.6	395.4	394.5	399.6
Net earnings (loss)	$ 0.52	$ 0.88	$ 0.84	$ 2.67
Net earnings (loss)	$ 0.52	$ 0.87	$ 0.83	$ 2.65

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RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges, net	$ 105			$ 21	$ 131	$ 21
Corporate and Other [Member] | Early Debt Extinguishment Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges, net	$ 105	$ 18	$ 8
Corporate and Other [Member] | Severance Costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges, net				11
Printing Papers | Severance Costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges, net				6
Global Cellulose Fibers [Member] | Severance Costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges, net				$ 4

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ACQUISITIONS (Details) - DS Smith Packaging [Member] $ in Millions	Jun. 28, 2019 USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash and temporary investments	$ 2
Accounts and notes receivable	22
Inventory	8
Plants, properties and equipment	37
Goodwill	27
Intangible assets	14
Right of use assets	3
Deferred charges and other assets	2
Total assets acquired	115
Short-term debt	2
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17
Other current liabilities	5
Deferred income taxes	4
Long-term debt	1
Postretirement and postemployment benefit obligation	3
Long-term lease obligations	2
Total liabilities assumed	34
Net assets acquired	$ 81

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ACQUISITIONS Narrative (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019 EUR (€)	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired			$ 64	$ 99
DS Smith Packaging [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$ 81	€ 71
Freedom [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired			$ 64

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DIVESTITURES Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operations Table (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total Assets Held for Sale	$ 114	$ 0
Total Liabilities Held for Sale	376	$ 0
Brazilian Industrial Packaging | Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash and temporary investments	11
Accounts and notes receivable	41
Inventories	22
Other current assets	1
Plants, properties and equipment (net of impairment)	28
Deferred charges and other assets	11
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	36
Deferred income taxes	3
Other liabilities	8
Impairment reserve (cumulative foreign currency translation)	$ 329

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DIVESTITURES Narrative (Details) R$ in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020 BRL (R$)	Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($)
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses	$ (5.0)		$ 8.0	$ 347.0		$ 153.0
APPM [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cost-method Investments, Realized Gain (Loss), Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments		$ 6.0
Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] | Brazilian Industrial Packaging
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Estimated proceeds from divestiture of business				$ 58.5	R$ 330
Proceeds to be received at closing | R$					280
Deferred proceeds on disposal of business | R$					R$ 50
Number of containerboard mill to be sold				3	3
Number of box plants to be sold				4	4
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses				$ 347.0
Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses, net of tax				$ 340.0

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION Accounts and Notes Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts and Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	$ 3,034	$ 3,280
Trade
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts and Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	2,789	3,020
Other
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts and Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	$ 245	$ 260

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION Inventories by Major Category (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Inventory [Line Items]
Raw materials	$ 257	$ 298
Finished pulp, paper and packaging	1,023	1,192
Operating supplies	638	659
Other	89	59
Total	$ 2,007	$ 2,208

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION Interest Income and Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Supplemental Income Statement Elements [Abstract]
Interest expense	$ 148	$ 177	$ 467	$ 538
Interest income	36	54	122	160
Capitalized interest costs	$ 9	$ 7	$ 27	$ 21

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SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]
Temporary investments	$ 450		$ 450		$ 335
Allowance for doubtful accounts	86		86
Accumulated depreciation	21,000		21,000		20,500
Depreciation expense	300	$ 305	902	$ 902
Interest payments			520	591
Asset retirement obligation	97		97		96
Accounts Payable, Other	$ 33		33		164
Insurance Recoveries			$ 40	$ 0
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Premiums and Other Receivables					$ 73

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LEASES Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related to Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease, right-of-use asset		$ 422	$ 434
Finance lease, right-of-use asset	[1]	95	103
Lease asset, total		517	537
Operating lease, liability, current		137	134
Finance lease, liability, current		12	12
Operating lease, liability, noncurrent		290	304
Finance lease, liability, noncurrent		83	88
Lease liability, total		$ 522	$ 538

[1] Finance leases are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $49 million and $40 million as of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.

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LEASES Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Footnotes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Accumulated Amortization	$ 49	$ 40

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LEASES Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Lease, Cost	$ 68	$ 68	$ 202	$ 206
Minimum [Member]
Lessee, operating and financing leases, remaining lease term			1 year
Maximum [Member]
Lessee, operating and financing leases, remaining lease term			96 years

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EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS Summarized Financial Information of Equity Method Investees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	$ 11,288		$ 11,288		$ 6,639
Current liabilities	8,476		8,476		8,646
Net earnings (loss)	204	$ 342	329	$ 1,054
Reportable Subsegments | Graphic Packaging LLC [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	2,013		2,013		1,796
Noncurrent assets	5,662		5,662		5,482
Current liabilities	1,692		1,692		1,178
Noncurrent liabilities	3,617		3,617		3,244
Net sales	1,698	1,581	4,908	4,640
Gross profit	255	266	838	820
Income from continuing operations	89	83	146	283
Net earnings (loss)	89	83	146	283
Reportable Subsegments | Ilim Holding
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Assets, Current	592		592		804
Noncurrent assets	2,442		2,442		2,813
Current liabilities	613		613		1,015
Noncurrent liabilities	2,015		2,015		1,844
Net sales	498	479	1,474	1,692
Gross profit	191	196	597	836
Income from continuing operations	(62)	41	7	388
Net earnings (loss)	(60)	$ 40	7	$ 375
Noncontrolling interests	$ 13		$ 13		$ 16

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EQUITY METHOD INVESTMENTS Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of equity method investments					$ 500	$ 0
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	$ (28)		$ 27		13	221
Equity method dividends received					$ 158	260
Reportable Subsegments | Graphic Packaging LLC [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Percentage of equity interest	14.80%			20.50%	14.80%
Proceeds from sales of equity method investments	$ 250	$ 250
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments		33
Gain (loss) on sale of equity method investment, net of tax		$ 25
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	11		10		$ 29	37
Equity method investments	693				693		$ 1,100
Equity method investment, difference between carrying amount and underlying equity	347				347		529
Revenue from related parties	$ 60		69		190	212
Equity method dividends received					$ 16	20
Equity method investments, aggregate units exchanged	17,399,414	15,150,784		79,911,511
Reportable Subsegments | Ilim Holding
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Percentage of equity interest	50.00%				50.00%
Equity earnings (loss), net of taxes	$ (33)		18		$ (5)	186
Equity method investments	322				322		508
Equity method investment, difference between carrying amount and underlying equity	126				126		$ 136
Related party transaction, purchases from related party	$ 41		$ 51		131	162
Equity method dividends received					$ 141	$ 239

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GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES Changes in Goodwill Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance		$ 5,460
Accumulated impairment losses		(2,113)
Goodwill		3,304	$ 3,347
Currency translation and other (a)	[1]	(44)
Goodwill additions/reductions		1
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions		0
Accumulated impairment losses		(2,113)
Ending balance		5,417
Industrial Packaging
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance		3,410
Accumulated impairment losses		(296)
Goodwill		3,116	3,114
Currency translation and other (a)	[1]	1
Goodwill additions/reductions		1
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions		0
Accumulated impairment losses		(296)
Ending balance		3,412
Global Cellulose Fibers
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance		52
Accumulated impairment losses		(52)
Goodwill		0	0
Currency translation and other (a)	[1]	0
Goodwill additions/reductions		0
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions		0
Accumulated impairment losses		(52)
Ending balance		52
Printing Papers
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance		1,998
Accumulated impairment losses		(1,765)
Goodwill		188	$ 233
Currency translation and other (a)	[1]	(45)
Goodwill additions/reductions		0
Accumulated impairment loss additions / reductions		0
Accumulated impairment losses		(1,765)
Ending balance		$ 1,953

[1] Represents the effects of foreign currency translations

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GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES Identifiable Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 756	$ 782
Accumulated Amortization	430	414
Net Intangible Assets	326	368
Customer relationships and lists
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	534	560
Accumulated Amortization	280	275
Net Intangible Assets	254	285
Tradenames, patents and trademarks, and developed technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	170	170
Accumulated Amortization	113	102
Net Intangible Assets	57	68
Land and water rights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	8	8
Accumulated Amortization	2	2
Net Intangible Assets	6	6
Software
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	25	26
Accumulated Amortization	25	25
Net Intangible Assets	0	1
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	19	18
Accumulated Amortization	10	10
Net Intangible Assets	$ 9	$ 8

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GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES Amortization Expense of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization expense related to intangible assets	$ 17	$ 15	$ 43	$ 40

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INCOME TAXES Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income tax payments, net of refunds	$ 203	$ 245
Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible	70
Secretariat of the Federal Revenue Bureau of Brazil [Member]
Income tax examination, estimate of possible loss	107
Income tax examination, penalties and interest expense	$ 342

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COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Environmental Remediation Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2019
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies			$ 186.0
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies, gross			195.0
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net			117.0
Cass Lake, Minnesota
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies			$ 45.0
Kalamazoo River Superfund Site
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Proposed consent decree, value of remediation payments					$ 100.0
Proposed consent decree, value of labor performed					$ 135.7
Kalamazoo River Superfund Site | Time Critical Removal Action
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, damages sought, value		$ 37.0		$ 19.0
Kalamazoo River Superfund Site | Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP, Fort James Corporation and Georgia Pacific LLC Cost Recovery Action
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Responsible party percentage			15.00%
Loss contingency, damages sought, value			$ 79.0
Loss Contingency, damages awarded, value			$ 50.0
San Jacinto River Superfund Site
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Responsible party percentage			50.00%
Loss contingency, damages sought, value			$ 115.0
San Jacinto River Superfund Site | Northern impoundment [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, damages sought, value			105.0
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net			55.0
San Jacinto River Superfund Site | Southern Impoundment [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, damages sought, value			10.0
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net			$ 10.0
Champion International Corporation [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net	$ 75.0
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net, Period Increase (Decrease)	$ 43.0

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COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020 EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Value Added Tax Receivable	$ 11.0
Liability for Asbestos and Environmental Claims, Net	$ 117.0
Italian Competition Authority [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Potentially Responsible Parties	30
Loss Contingency Accrual	$ 32.0				€ 29
Signature Industrial Services LLC et al. v. International Paper [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, damages awarded, value		$ 14.8	$ 137.0	$ 125.0
Disputed invoices, value						$ 1.0

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VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES Activity Between Company and Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
2015 Financing Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Revenue	[1]	$ 24	$ 24	$ 71	$ 71
Expense	[1]	32	32	96	96
Cash receipts	[2]	48	48	95	95
Cash payments	[3]	64	64	128	128
2007 Financing Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Revenue	[4]	7	19	35	61
Expense	[5]	8	19	36	60
Cash receipts	[6]	5	16	28	48
Cash payments	[7]	$ 8	$ 17	$ 34	$ 53

[1] The revenue and expense are included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations.

[2] The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

[3] The cash payments represent interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

[4] The revenue is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $5 million and $14 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion income for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

[5] The expense is included in Interest expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations and includes approximately $2 million and $5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, of accretion expense for the amortization of the basis difference adjustment on the Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

[6] The cash receipts are interest received on the Financial assets of special purpose entities.

[7] The cash payments are interest paid on Nonrecourse financial liabilities of special purpose entities.

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VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES Activity Between Company and Entities Footnotes (Details) - 2007 Financing Entities - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Accretion income for amortization of purchase accounting adjustment, financial assets	$ 5	$ 5	$ 14	$ 14
Accretion expense for amortization of purchase accounting adjustment, financial liabiities	$ 2	$ 2	$ 5	$ 5

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VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets, Current	$ 11,288	$ 6,639
2015 Financing Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Notes receivable, fair value disclosure	4,920
Long-term debt, fair value	4,240
Assets, Current	4,850
Other Liabilities, Current	4,220
2007 Financing Entities
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Notes receivable, fair value disclosure	2,290
Long-term debt, fair value	2,120
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other Liabilities, Current	$ 4,220	$ 4,220

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DEBT Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020	Jul. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt and capital lease obligations	$ 8,700			$ 8,700	$ 8,700
Debt fair value	10,700			10,700	10,700
Accounts and Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	3,034			3,034	3,034	$ 3,280
Debt covenant compliance, minimum net worth	9,000			9,000	$ 9,000
Debt covenant compliance, minimum debt to capital ratio					60.00%
364-Day Revolving Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	750			750	$ 750
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding	0			0	0
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	1,500			1,500	1,500
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding	0			0	0
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	1,000			1,000	1,000
Line of credit, current	$ 140			$ 140	$ 140
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.17%			0.17%	0.17%
Receivables Securitization Program [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Collateralized Agreements	$ 550			$ 550	$ 550
Collateralized agreements, value of amount outstanding	0			0	$ 0
Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Short-term Debt, Refinanced, Amount			$ 122
Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	$ 700	$ 203		$ 406
Minimum [Member] | Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			1.38%
Minimum [Member] | Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.00%			3.00%	3.00%
Maximum [Member] | Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			1.60%
Maximum [Member] | Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.80%			3.80%	3.80%

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Schedule of Notional Amounts of Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 0	$ 7,000,000
Energy Related Derivative | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	12,000,000	16,000,000
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	245,000,000	407,000,000
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	0	700,000,000
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	50,000,000	0
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 0	$ 475,000,000

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Gains Losses Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income AOCI Net of Tax Related to Derivative Instruments (Details) - Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Cash Flow Hedging
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	$ (4)	$ (10)	$ (34)	$ (6)
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Contract
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	(4)	(10)	(34)	(6)
Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	0	18	24	15
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	$ 0	$ 18	$ 24	$ 15

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Gains and Losses Recognized in Consolidated Statement of Operations on Qualifying and Non-Qualifying Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Expense [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Expense [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	0	11	38	42
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Expense [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Debt [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	0	(11)	(38)	(42)
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses | Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	1	0	2	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Net (gains) losses on sales and impairments of businesses | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	1	0	2	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cost of Products Sold | Cash Flow Hedging
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	(6)	(4)	(26)	(5)
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cost of Products Sold | Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Contract
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	(6)	(4)	(26)	(5)
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	1	(6)	(2)	(2)
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cost of Products Sold | Energy Related Derivative
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	1	(5)	(2)	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cost of Products Sold | Foreign Exchange Contract
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net	$ 0	$ (1)	$ 0	$ (2)

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Impact of Derivative Instruments in Consolidated Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020		Dec. 31, 2019
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	$ 2	[1]	$ 68	[2]
Derivative Liabilities	16	[3]	7	[4]
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	2		68
Derivative Liabilities	16		4
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		3
Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		1
Energy Related Derivative | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	0		2
Cash Flow Hedging | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	2		10
Derivative Liabilities	16		4
Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		11
Derivative Liabilities	0		0
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		47
Derivative Liabilities	$ 0		$ 0

[1] Included in Other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[2] Includes $14 million recorded in Other current assets and $54 million recorded in Deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[3] Includes $14 million recorded in Other current liabilities and $2 million recorded in Other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[4] Included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Impact of Derivative Instruments in Consolidated Balance Sheet Other (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020		Dec. 31, 2019
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	$ 2	[1]	$ 68	[2]
Derivative Liabilities	16	[3]	7	[4]
Other Current Assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets			14
Deferred charges and other assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets			54
Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liabilities	14
Other Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Liabilities	2
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	2		68
Derivative Liabilities	16		4
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0		0
Derivative Liabilities	$ 0		$ 3

[1] Included in Other current assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[2] Includes $14 million recorded in Other current assets and $54 million recorded in Deferred charges and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[3] Includes $14 million recorded in Other current liabilities and $2 million recorded in Other liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

[4] Included in Other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

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DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Gain / (Loss) Recorded to AOCI After Tax, That Is Expected to be Reclassified to Earnings	$ 4
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
terminated derivative notional amount			$ 700
Terminated derivative, fair value, net			$ 85
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument
terminated derivative notional amount		$ 475
Terminated derivative, fair value, net		$ 33

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RETIREMENT PLANS Net Periodic Pension Expense for Qualified and Nonqualified U.S. Defined Benefit Plans (Details) - U.S. plans - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 21	$ 17	$ 64	$ 51
Interest cost	98	110	294	330
Expected return on plan assets	(167)	(158)	(501)	(473)
Actuarial loss	51	50	152	150
Amortization of prior service cost	5	4	15	12
Net periodic pension expense	$ 8	$ 23	$ 24	$ 70

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RETIREMENT PLANS Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Pension plan contributions	$ 0	$ 0
Non Qualified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefits paid	$ 22

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STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Expense Related to Income Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Income tax benefits related to stock-based compensation	$ 1	$ (2)	$ 18	$ 31
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense (selling and administrative)	$ 17	$ 31	$ 48	$ 94

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STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation cost related to unvested restricted performance shares, executive continuity awards and restricted stock attributable to future performance, net of estimated forfeitures | $	$ 85
Compensation cost related to unvested restricted performance shares, executive continuity awards and restricted stock attributable to future performance, net of estimated forfeitures, weighted-average period (in years)	1 year 8 months 12 days
Granted, nonvested shares / units	2.2
Granted, nonvested, weighted average grant date fair value | $ / shares	$ 49.15
Stock Compensation Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for grant under ICP	8.4

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INDUSTRY SEGMENT INFORMATION Sales by Industry Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 5,123	$ 5,568	$ 15,341	$ 16,878
Consolidation, Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	48	53	150	164
Industrial Packaging
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	3,768	3,820	11,220	11,516
Global Cellulose Fibers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	564	624	1,737	1,974
Printing Papers
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 743	$ 1,071	$ 2,234	$ 3,224

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INDUSTRY SEGMENT INFORMATION Operating Profit by Industry Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Operating profit	$ 473	$ 701	$ 1,413	$ 1,930
Earnings (loss) before income taxes and equity earnings	282	452	527	1,204
Interest expense, net	112	123	345	378
Noncontrolling interests adjustment	0	2	0	4
Corporate expenses, net	(20)	21	9	45
Corporate net special items	108	48	195	48
Business net special items	2	46	368	224
Non-operating pension expense (income)	(11)	9	(31)	27
Industrial Packaging
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Operating profit	469	535	1,388	1,471
Global Cellulose Fibers
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Operating profit	(59)	4	(123)	39
Printing Papers
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Operating profit	$ 63	$ 162	$ 148	$ 420