CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (40)	$ (54)
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(4)	35
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	(741)	92
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	(4)	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(749)	127
Comprehensive income (loss)	(789)	73
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(161)	(125)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ (950)	$ (52)