Entity Information (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Feb. 17, 2012
Entity Registrant Name	LINCOLN NATIONAL CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0000059558
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float	$ 8,800,000,000
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		291,330,818
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2011
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY