SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Details 2) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Other assets
Deferred bonus interest and deferred sales inducement assets	$ 517	$ 803
Amortization expense associated with deferred bonus interest and deferred sales inducement assets	$ 162	$ 239	$ 146
Buildings | Maximum
Real estate and other fixed assets
Estimated useful life	40 years
Furniture and equipment | Maximum
Real estate and other fixed assets
Estimated useful life	10 years
Software Development | Maximum
Real estate and other fixed assets
Estimated useful life	5 years