EQUITY - Cumulative Gains (Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plans	$ (7)			$ (5)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	13,932	$ 12,370	$ 12,428	16,946	$ 18,492	$ 19,492
Less: Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to discontinued operations, net of noncontrolling interest	0			15
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	1,571			(444)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	1,564			(449)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated other comprehensive income	$ 1,564	$ 273	$ (491)	$ (464)	$ (158)	$ 598