ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (CUMMULATIVE GAINS (LOSSES)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	$ 1,624		$ 645
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(55)		(53)
Defined benefit pension plans	(12)		(722)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	1,557		(130)
Less: Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	56		52
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 1,613	$ 228	$ (78)