Statutory Information and Restrictions (Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Calculation of reserves using the Indiana universal life method [Member]
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices		$ 36	$ 54
Conservative valuation rate on certain variable annuities [Member]
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices		(55)	(50)
Lesser of LOC and XXX additional reserve as surplus [Member]
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices	[1]	1,959	1,965
LLC Notes And Variable Value Surplus Notes [Member]
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices	[1]	1,634	1,585
Excess Of Loss Reinsurance Treaties [Member]
Statutory Accounting Practices [Line Items]
Effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of prescribed and permitted practices	[1]	$ 330	$ 185

[1] These permitted practices are related to structures that continue to be allowed in accordance with the grandfathered structures under the provisions of AG48.