CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,720	$ 854
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	9	(12)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	780	339
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	0	19
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	789	346
Comprehensive income (loss)	2,509	1,200
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(120)	(86)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 2,389	$ 1,114