Variable Interest Entities ("VIE's") (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Oct. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2010
Outstanding Principal Balance of Surplus Note Issued By LRCVV And Held By LFLLCI	$ 533
Long-Term Senior Note Issued In Exchange For Corporate Bond Afs Security				$ 500
Outstanding Principal Balance of Long-Term Senior Note Issued In Exchange For Corporate Bond AFS Security	809
Maxiumum Principal Balance of Long Term Senior Note Issued In Exchange For Corporate Bond AFS Security	1,100
Surplus Note Issued By Lincoln Reinsurance Company Of Vermont VI			$ 275
Outstanding Principal Balance Of Surplus Note Issued By Lincoln Reinsurance Company Of Vermont VI	474
Carrying Amounts of our Investments in LPs and LLCs, As Recognized In Other Investments on our Consolidated Balance Sheets	2,230	$ 1,778
Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability Companies [Member]
Carrying Amounts of our Investments in LPs and LLCs, As Recognized In Other Investments on our Consolidated Balance Sheets	1,300	1,200
Carrying Amount Of Investments In Qualified Affordable Housing Projects	37	47
Income Tax Credits And Other Tax Benefits From Qualified Affordable Housing Projects	3
Parent Company [Member]
Carrying Amounts of our Investments in LPs and LLCs, As Recognized In Other Investments on our Consolidated Balance Sheets	$ 51	$ 40