ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (CUMMULATIVE GAINS (LOSSES)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	$ 400				$ 1,560
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(57)				(56)
Defined benefit pension plans	(48)				(43)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	295				1,461
Less: Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	67				68
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 362	$ 452	$ 137	$ 1	$ 1,529	$ 1,516	$ 908	$ 185