EQUITY - Components of OCI, Net of Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Net unrealized gains (losses) arising during the period	$ 1,283	$ (348)	$ 2,526	$ (1,332)
(Gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss) during the period	(4)	4	2	(67)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments	1,279	(344)	2,528	(1,399)
Adjustments for policyholders’ liabilities, DAC, insurance liability loss recognition and other	(12)	(31)	473	(344)
Less: Reclassification adjustments to Net income (loss) for:	1,291	(313)	2,055	(1,055)
Reclassification to Net income (loss) of amortization of net prior service credit included in net periodic cost	0	(1)	0	(5)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	0	(1)	0	(5)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes from continuing operations	1,291	(314)	2,055	(1,060)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	8	0	(2)
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AXA Equitable	1,291	(306)	2,055	(1,062)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of adjustments, tax	341	(83)	541	(280)
Change in defined benefit plans, tax	0	0	0	(1)
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Reclassification from AOCI, current period, tax	$ 0	$ 1	$ 1	$ (18)