CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 265	$ (2,084)	$ (563)	$ (2,348)
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	1,291	(313)	2,055	(1,055)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	0	(1)	0	(5)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	8	0	(2)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	1,291	(306)	2,055	(1,062)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 1,556	$ (2,390)	$ 1,492	$ (3,410)