CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (1,958)	$ 1,613	$ (2,091)	$ 1,559
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(8)	(21)	(12)	14
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	(311)	294	(1,052)	386
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	(1)	1	(5)	1
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(320)	274	(1,069)	401
Comprehensive income (loss)	(2,278)	1,887	(3,160)	1,960
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(142)	(93)	(303)	(218)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ (2,420)	$ 1,794	$ (3,463)	$ 1,742