Commitments and Guarantees (Reinsurance Agreements Exposure and Reserves) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011		Sep. 30, 2010	Dec. 31, 2010
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	$ 6,601			$ 4,542
Excess of Loss	5.00%			8.00%
Quota Share	95.00%			92.00%
Beginning Balance - Reinsurance Reserves	150		220	220
Paid Losses	(94)		(74)
Net Provision	28		35
Changes to Agreements	0		(3)
Ending Balance - Reinsurance Reserves	84		178	150
Accidental Death and Dismemberment [Member]
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	2,332			2,367
Credit Life Accident and Health [Member]
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	959			1,003
Lender Placed Hazard [Member]
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	2,958	[1]		709	[1]
Borrower and Lender Paid Mortgage Insurance [Member]
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	352			463
Agreements With Full Reinsurance [Member]
Reinsurance agreements - aggregate maximum exposure	$ 958			$ 1,001

[1] Lender Placed Hazard contract including stop loss provision expired in the third quarter of 2010. Stop loss provision not available on replacement contract.