EQUITY - Components of OCI, Net of Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2018
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period	$ 1,243	$ (984)
(Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period	6	(71)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	1,249	(1,055)
Adjustments for policyholders’ liabilities, DAC, insurance liability loss recognition and other	485	(313)
Less: Reclassification adjustments to Net income (loss) for:	764	(742)
Amortization of net (gains) losses included in net periodic cost	0	(4)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	0	(4)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes from continuing operations	764	(746)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	0	(10)
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	764	(756)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments, tax	200	(197)
Change in defined benefit plans, tax	0	0
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Reclassification from AOCI, current period, tax	$ 1	$ (19)